Light of the West

Annika Raelyn || 24 || She/Her || || Baby Vampire || Innkeep This is a character blog for Children of Athoria RP. Please do not use any of this content for your own purposes. All writing is original. Please ask permission before using any content.

[derekryder]

Derek & Annika || How Can I Be Closer?

[annika-raelyn]

derekryder: 

It was somewhat inspiring to hear Annika speak of her plans and goals. It brought about a proud sort of feeling inside of Derek that was extremely unfamiliar. Yet, from his recent travels around the world, he knew that feelings in Brailston would be eccentric and very real, and raw. The city was encompassed with so many different types of people, and now that they were living in it together Derek only imagined those emotions would grow stronger. His mental walls would stand at the ready, yet with Annika there were parts of him that were prepared to be vulnerable.

Derek was unsure what the initiation would be like. He hoped that Phillip would prepare them both.

“Vampires here seem so busy with their own needs that they hardly recognized our arrival. Something tells me that it won’t be difficult for you to fit in,”

Derek pried his eyes away from his progeny and looked down, and smiled at his remark. He tried to hide it but the grin peeked out of the corners of his lips anyway. Imaging Annika dressed the part and conversing in such fashionable and important ways was really doing something to him. Perhaps it was that neglected side of vampirism that only wanted acceptance and freedom, and to make a difference in his own type of way. This was that opportunity with Annika and Derek wanted her to succeed where he had not.

Everything was suddenly very real in those moments; talking about the congregation, being inside the tower, having contacts and secret missions and initiations…there really was no turning back.

Every part of Derek wanted to touch her more. His hand played with the ends of the strands of her hair and his fingertips grazed the skin of her shoulder and arm almost shyly, as if he didn’t want to break her or cross lines that they had drawn when they first met.

“I want to be a Maker you are proud of,” Derek swallowed, finding it difficult to say the next phrase. He pressed his lips together as if he were embarrassed. “I don’t want you to regret spending eternity with me,”

“I’m glad that you think so, too.” It pleased her to know that Derek had faith. Annika was always quite the social butterfly and had a knack for charming others. She didn’t know what to expect from the seasoned vampires of the Tower, but she vowed to make them adore her. Annika believed that if she could captivate Derek, someone who seemed as immovable as stone, then so could others. Proof of her prowess was in the grin he tried to hide. Her Maker’s smile was something rare and to witness it was like watching a falling star. It could be there one moment, but if she blinked, it disappeared. 

 Annika wanted nothing more than to make him smile again and again. It only made her wonder what she could do to recreate the occurrence. At the same time, she was far too distracted by his touch. The feather-light contact against her shoulder tingled like sparks. Annika wished that he would touch more, that he’d possess her like he did back on the beach. But she knew that Derek wouldn’t cross that line again unless invited. He understood the importance of her consent, something that many men failed to recognize. Annika realized then that they’d skirt around whatever lied between them until she made the first move. 

"Derek...I” She smiled brightly, then lifted a hand to clutch the one along her shoulder. “I am already so proud of you. When we first met, you weren’t the person that you are now...and the fact that you seek to keep growing shows how much you can and will.” Annika continued to hold his hand as she rose to her feet. She wanted him to know that he’d always be enough for her, that her Maker was all she truly needed in this world. 

Her free hand trailed across his jawline before it came to rest at his nape. “I could never regret an eternity with you. I wouldn’t have agreed to it if I didn’t want to be with you forever, no matter what.” Annika rose on her toes and closed the remainder of the space between them to press her lips to his. She allowed all her feelings for him flow to through the gesture. Her desires, dreams,  and more importantly, that she loved him. 

[celebritiesource]

[derekryder]

Derek & Annika || How Can I Be Closer?

[annika-raelyn]

derekryder:

Her hand in his was a distraction from the the semi-lie she was telling. Annika was learning on how to use her words to misconstrue the truth, and it was important for her to continue to learn everything she could, no matter if it was from Derek alone or another. Phillip would be a good mentor in terms of politics and fabrication to society living. Having had progenies of his own, Derek could see Annika by his side at parties and meetings and gatherings where important people were present. He could envision Phillip showing her old books and informing her of the histories and the past, and how to act in front of certain guests of opposing species.

With Derek, he was but an old rock inside a palace fit for a younger generation. He was unsure if he belonged, yet he would stay for the safety of his kin.

Annika Raelyn meant more to him than anyone could possibly understand.

“I know Phillip needs friends inside this place. What I fear is being unaware of what the truth is ourselves. We don’t know anything about this place except what Phillip has spoken of. It does not seem wise to put our trust in him fully,” he said. “At least, not yet. We should be free to make our own decisions,”

His own words felt like a small betrayal towards the young vampire who he had promised to help. Revenge was an easy way to bond, no matter the specie or age or gender. Derek wished to assist Phillip. But if it came at the cost of his or Annika’s life, then he would not do so.

It was as simple as that.

“What’s your plan, then?” Derek intertwined their fingers, finding it easy to be so near to her sometimes, as if they were constantly connected. He combed the fingertips of his other hand through the strands of her hair, laying the pieces on her shoulders almost delicately. “Where do you want to start?”

She didn’t want to admit it, but Derek was right. They were in unfamiliar territory and wasn’t experienced on how to operate in it. Not only that, but they were entering a game without full knowledge of the rules. That didn’t make her doubt her goals, but it did make the situation a bit more intimidating. “We may not have to place our full trust in him, but he is one of the few allies that we have right now...” They still had Porter, but Annika did not know where he stood in in the hidden feuds. “I think we should place some faith him, but learn to stand on our own in this as well.” 

Butterflies resurfaced in Annika’s stomach when Derek’s fingers laced with her own. There was always something about those small gestures, that made her feel like a blushing teenager. She almost shut her eyes in bliss when his fingers toyed with her hair, but his question kept her focused. “Well, if we do not know the full truth, then we have to find it ourselves. The Congregation might be a group, but there are likely inner circles within it. Since I’m new, I plan to use that as a way to get to know everyone. Find out their attitudes, desires, and maybe loyalties...” 

Now, she’d begun to grow giddy with another sort of excitement. Just brainstorming a plan made it all feel more real. “We have to find out how this place operates, but of course I’ll have to officially join as well. You and Phillip will need to prepare me for Initiation and I’ll have to find out what I need to be prepared for during those trials.” The corner of her mouth curled into a cheeky grin. “Back at Crescent Grove the others said you were a neglectful Maker and should teach me our ways.” Annika chuckled. “So, it looks like you may have to do what Makers do and provide some Vampire Lessons.” 

[annika-raelyn]

Wine Tasting ||FB|| Annika+Grigori

[annika-raelyn]

grigoriathoriarp:

It had been a rough dusk. When life brought him back from the death-like vampiric coma, Grigori had found himself with a terrible thirst. As a young vampire, he knew his hunger was much larger than the elders, but some nights were near-savagery. That was such a time for him. He crawled out of his coffin, got dressed quickly and made a run for Harriet’s. Water splashed under his boots as he ran, mud accompanying it over the bottom of his pants. His palms fell flat on the doors of the Blooddoll House and slammed them open. He nearly fell over when he arrived. Lucy, one of his most frequented Dolls, ran over to him. “Dear God, Master Grigori. We’ve warned you from too little feeding,” she said to him as she helped him up and scurried him to a private room. 

Lucy was right. Grigori had only drunk a small wineskin’s worth of blood per night for the past week. This was the result of his depression feeding on him, the more the darkness took his head the more he neglected himself. “You know me, Lucy, I have a knack for the dramatics.” 

The room she had brought him in was his usual room, a usual room for many he guessed, but when he was at Harriet’s this was his. He’d never come and found it occupied. It was a lavish room, fitting for royalty or maybe casual enough for Phillip. He pushed Lucy onto the bed and climbed over her, immediately biting into her neck. She winced when he bit her but soon the roll took effect and the girl was silent in her illusionary ecstasy. He drank slowly and with care, but when he knew the limit was reached and let go of her neck, he still hungered deeply. He bit his index and dabbed some of his blood on her, erasing the fang wounds carefully in order to keep her human. He leaned into her and whispered, “I need others, my dear. You alone cannot satisfy me tonight, forgive me.”

Lucy nodded and rose from the bed, making her way into the corridor to fetch another Doll. Grigori watched as she left and then went to wait by the door. He liked to watch the liveliness of the place, the secrecy, the shame of some, the arrogance of others. He then spotted a young vampire being taking through the corridor. Seemed the rooms had filled. Grigori closed his eyes and heard the cacophony of human thoughts, spotting the ones of the clerk. This one had been meant a special reservation, it had seemed. With most of his wit back, he hailed them with a hand. He was usually strict about the intimacy of his feeding but was also compassionate to the fate of young vampires. Her face, so he perceived it, betrayed her nervousness and fear. “There is a large sofa in this room. We can share. Only this once, though. I hate company but you find me in a good mood.” He motioned to the vampiress to come in - if she agreed to it or not was entirely up to her. He sat on the bed, resuming his waiting on his next Doll. “I’m Grigori,” he said, presenting himself.

It made Annika feel uneasy that the place reminded her of a brothel. She even smelled sex coming from a few of the rooms. Her time as a worker in Leeds wasn’t a joyful one, but she reminded herself that not all people were like her. Instead of serving their inner demons, they were content with what they did and enjoyed it. However, she knew the people here were at the mercy of vampires, and some were far worse than what she could imagine being. Yet when nervousness plagued her again, a fellow patron called out to her. Her emotions must have been plain as day, regarding his offer. It was disturbingly casual, as if they were still humans sharing a tavern meal.

“That’s kind of you Grigori...” Annika offered him an uneasy smile. If she could, she’d blush from embarrassment. “I’m Annika...and is it that apparent that this is my first time?” She allowed herself to chuckle a bit and stepped through the threshold. At first, she considered turning down the offer, but she was far too afraid to go through with it by herself. Perhaps feeding with someone else would break the tension and make the experience more ‘social’. Or...Grigori could be someone looking to get extremely lucky. As she took her seat on the plush sofa, Annika gave him a pointed look. 

“Also, don’t get any ideas about this.” The fledgling gestured to the bed and space between them. “I’m only here for a drink and to choose a Doll to bring back home with me. But, I do appreciate your company and I’m still learning to associate with our kind.” In time, the girl she saw leave returned with a new Doll. She was beautiful with tanned skin and sandy hair, smelling of strawberries and honey. Annika’s fangs snapped from her gums again and the hiss in her own throat left her startled. Quickly, she covered her mouth and receded further into the sofa, looking to Grigori for any sort of guidance. 

[derekryder]

Derek & Annika || How Can I Be Closer?

[annika-raelyn]

derekryder:

Annika’s emotions were like captivating blood on the tip of his tongue. She made him want to break down walls and build them back up for her all at the same time. Her array of wonder and innocence reflected fields of endless blooming flowers, while Derek was the storm that hovered overhead with threats of drowning them in its furry.  

The urges to leave and stay were conflicting and confusing. Annika’s own fluid emotions did not help in his decision or instinct to know what to do, or why. The ultimate choice of coming to the Tower was the first step towards many more smaller ones to enable them a future together. If in the end they reflected in Annika only growing in this society and thriving in this shameful, monstrous world, then he would do his best to keep his decisions on track.

How long could he protect her when she made him feel so emotionally weak?

It was very, very, very difficult to do so with Annika laying in the middle of a luxurious bed inside a room fit for a queen. 

Her joke flew over Derek’s head easily. He did not find it funny. He would demand Porter and his ‘so-called keeper’, Phillip, for two coffins. Though the room was windowless he did not trust the open confinement.

Derek reached behind him and locked the door.

“It doesn’t matter if you sleep at the bottom of the ocean, Annika. Fluffy beds will not make a difference in your strength come nightfall,”

Derek dared to walk into the room. Faintly he could smell the last occupant of the space – their scent engraved into the fabrics of the tablecloth and rug. The front of his legs stopped at the foot of the bed. He watched Annika now with an intense gaze, feeling the insides of his chest stumble over his own mixture of emotions upon her very presence. Her dress revealed uncovered parts of her legs. He watched the way she inhaled for breath she didn’t need. “This is what you really want?”

Annika couldn’t help but roll her eyes. “Well I know the bed doesn’t make a difference, comatose is comatose, no matter the circumstances. But that doesn’t mean we’re not allowed comfort.” It was equally adorable and annoying how literal Derek could be. She wondered if he acted that way when he was human or did being a vampire change him? Annika doubted that she’d live for 200 years and be the same woman that she was now, but did age change the vampire? Did it suck the life from them as the horror stories say? 

Annika knew why she meant so much to him and understood what she represented. But what if he was searching for the light he’d lost in her? What if it was never naturally missing, like she thought, but it was sacrificed in his immortality? For a moment, she feared that she’d find herself on that path, but cast those thoughts away. They balanced one another in ways that others couldn’t. If he’d lost his way, Annika would make it her mission to never lose her own and guide him. Otherwise, they’d both be doomed and she’d never allow that to happen. 

Finally, her Maker allowed himself to step fully into the room. His discomfort was replaced with an intensity that seared flesh. Again, Annika was reminded there was only one bed in the room. And the way he looked at her made Annika think he just may want to truly share it with her. Derek stood directly in front of her draped legs, the way a lover might before descending. “Y-Yes, I thought you’ve known that for some time now...” She said, slowly rising to a seated position. Her eyes darted to his waistband, then trailed up to his chiseled jawline. “Ever since that night I–” Realizing the true intent of his question, Annika stopped. 

She thought Derek meant ‘this’ as in them together, not their coupling with the Congregation. “Ever since that night Philip spoke to me about Ivo, I was sure. Before, it was an idea I’d considered, but wasn’t entirely sold on.” Annika tried thwarting the awkwardness by taking his hand in her own. “But the world is changing, Derek. Sooner or later, we would have needed to leave Crescent Grove. The Midnight Congregation is trying to build a world that we can share with everyone, but we have to help Phillip first.” She lowered her voice to a whisper. “There is discord being sewn here and we can’t have that world if we don’t remove the rot.” 

[annika-raelyn]

Wine Tasting ||FB|| Annika+Grigori

Night Haven 1 Year Ago @grigoriathoriarp​

Annika stood outside of the Blooddoll House wringing the edge of her sleeve. She’d been standing there for minutes trying to work up the courage to go inside. It made her feel uneasy, knowing that she’d treat a person like a piece of food. Since she turned, Annika drank from a cup or wineskin as much as she could. However, Derek told her that she’d need to learn how to properly feed. It was a necessity and a skill she’d have to hone if she wanted to survive. Derek would be leaving soon, so it was his idea for her to get a Blooddoll. She was told that she should have her own supply, to have someone that didn’t need to be swayed or glamoured. Regardless of how sensible it was, Annika still hadn’t come to complete terms that she was on top of the food chain now. 

She wished Derek was with her, but he was waiting at the tavern next door. He’d thrown her to the wolves and claimed that she could choose a doll on her own. He’d already taught her how to roll during a feeding, to make the person feel no pain at all. But, once again, he was forcing independence upon her, readying her for his absence. That only made her wonder if all fledglings learned such lessons in the same manner. 

Annika took a deep, unneeded breath and exhaled. “You can do this. You can do this.” She muttered to herself. “You drink blood now, you chose this, and have to accept it.” After shaking the last of her fears away, she pressed on and headed inside. Annika’s fangs slid from her gums the second she inhaled the air. It was like a cocktail of intoxicating scents, with each layer more heavenly than the last. The clerk at the front desk seemed tickled by her expression and offered his greeting. Once she spoke of the arrangement Derek had with Harriet, the clerk spewed more pleasantries as if she was some wealthy high-roller from Leeds. It was then that she was whisked down the hall, to the section of the house where he claimed their finest dolls were kept. 

[derekryder]

Derek & Annika || How Can I Be Closer?

[annika-raelyn]

derekryder:

Brailston City The Ivory Tower @annika-raelyn

Humans stacked the last of their belongings in a neat pile by the door, and as they closed it behind them, Derek and Annika were alone.

The Ivory Tower was a place of mystery. Upon entering with Phillip and his progeny at his side, Derek wanted to ignore the sticky instinct that bubbled inside his stomach telling them to be careful, and that something was not right. But for the time being he decided to dismiss it as simple paranoia of being back in Brailston among so many that he initially despised. Emotions and empathy surrounded the entire space, and as they had walked through the many winding and twisting walls to the quarters that hosted guests and aspiring initiates, Derek closed himself off very quickly. He did not want to be invaded or touched or even seen. Yet he did not want to embarrass Annika, who was thoroughly enjoying herself already.

The room was unlike anything Derek had honestly stepped in before; with painted walls and artwork, threads of fabric with colors that were too bright. It was expensive and dramatic, frilly and tame. His lip pouted ever so slightly as he glanced around with only his eyes.

Derek’s skin felt dirty from the long journey and since he was unclean he then felt as if he tainted that space just by standing inside it. His back grazed the door in fear of walking inside. If he got comfortable and settled in, it would make this whole ordeal very, very real.

Fresh flowers and candles rested on a small circular table in the center of the room as if they had been placed there specifically for him and Annika. His pout grew deeper, his voice almost escaping like a whine. “This is too much, don’t you think?”

Annika felt like she was in some sort of fairy tale yet again. She could never quite understand it, but every milestone moment with Derek felt magical. From their meeting, to her turning, and to that moment on the beach. It all felt right and destined, as if some invisible force pushed them closer each time. Now, they were moving to the Ivory Tower, becoming a part of vampyric society. At first, she was nervous about being in a city again. She thought that all the scents of different people would drive her blood-crazy. 

Yet it wasn’t blood that bothered her, but the actual smell of the city and array of emotions. The wide-open air of Crescent Grove was long gone and she had some trouble wading through the turbulence. Derek seemed equally bothered, but he masked it extremely well. However, the second she laid eyes on the Ivory Tower, she was able to tune out the white noise of emotions and odors. Her eyes lit up like the sun and Annika had nearly burst from the carriage so she could see inside. She almost offered to take up her own luggage so she wouldn’t have to wait on the servants to take them up. 

On the way in, she shared pleasantries with Congregation members. To her own surprise, she left them enamored by her looks and colorful demeanor. Annika felt proud being told that she’d make a fine addition to their society, only making her beam more. Once they were at their room, butterflies bloomed in her stomach as they stepped in. Derek acted as if he didn’t want to move and even had the nerve to frown. 

“Aww well, of course it’s too much, but what would else could you expect from the Ivory Tower?” She leaned forward to cup his cheeks. “And don’t be so mopey, I know you aren’t comfortable with too much change, but you’ll warm up to this.” Annika daintily spun away from her Maker, and in one stride, pounced onto the bed. The mattress felt like it was stuffed with both cupid feathers and lamb’s wool. She could lie in it forever, until she realized that it was the only bed in the suite and that she’d have to indefinitely share it with Derek. Then the notion became terrifying and tantalizing all at once. “Unless you really do prefer a bed of straw and rock walls, Lord Caveman of Mt. Kairo?” 

[phillipdelaney-blog]

Letters from Home || Annika&Phillip

[annika-raelyn]

phillipdelaney:

Phillip didn’t act out this way. He was calculated and rational just as equally as eccentric and loud, and it was this behavior– the disrespect that was so unlike him that it made all his suspicions turn from anger to paranoia. It was there, the feeling like a leech was stuck to the back of his skull, slowly eating away at his more authentic self, whispers and suggestion, glamour collective between every single vampire in the Congregation smothering and layering between them all, so they had become this single unit of instinct and true Phillip Delaney.

He reached out and threaded his fingers with her own.

“I am so sorry; I am emotionally a mess right now– it’s not an excuse… I am not myself after my progeny Ivo was… murdered. It’s just, that man finding me means my Master, The Eternal, knows where I am. I will have to go home sooner than I want.”

His mind reeled into a thousand directions, the last year toyed with him in both clarity and confusion. Had something more ominous been going on all along? Had that been why he was promoted? To use him beyond his money? To control him, or was it something right in front of him and he didn’t see it? The letter seemed ominous in its ribbon hue and the weathered parchment from the treatment of travel and time.

He stood back now, pinching the bone between his eyes in fatigue to a headache already pounding in the front of his head. He opened the scroll, peeling the wax dollop that didn’t contain a crest. However, the second it broke a familiar scent attacked all his senses– and he gasped unrolling it entirely revealing a scratch of handwriting clearly written at different times and speed as the ink was smudged and ruined in places. 

My Maker,

Phillip, when you found me, I was no one special. I pick-pocketed to survive; I ate what I could recover from the trash, I didn’t even know how to write this well until you took me– until you made me a vampire and gave me a family. 

This letter is going to make you so mad, I fear for your wrath. I wish this wasn’t going to happen to you and myself, but I know it will. I know whats coming, and it has taken all my years of living in Leeds to know where to hide to write this to you, so you are prepared.

Your maker– Juda. He’s up to something sinister.

We found the artifact months ago. He has been telling you otherwise. Juda keeps glamouring me, but I am fighting it, I write things down and reread them when I can get away, so I don’t forget. He has me looking into your hidden caches stashed in Leeds; we found three that I am certain of. I don’t know what he is looking for now that he has this artifact, but I believe it is a key, and he keeps talking about the Church of Athoria. 

Did you put something there? If so, please recover it before he finds it.

Phillip, I think he is going to kill me.

I wish I could tell you before this letter. I will try. I can’t reach you, or feel our connection because of him and your trust in him with me… but if I die– I’m sorry. I’m sorry I couldn’t get away, I know you wouldn’t care I ran, you would want to protect me because you love me. You were the only person to ever love me. I leave you with this and my thanks. 

There is something inside your Weeping Locket. You must open it before Juda does.

Ivo

Phillip handed the letter to Annika and paced the kitchen, his lip trembling. 

“My…I, this… This is why I need you and Derek with me in Brailston. I need real allies by my side. How can I make sense of my own family turning against me?”

She didn’t flinch away when he took her hand; Annika could see how lost he was. She put the pieces together about his progeny, but she figured that Ivo’s death must have been some time ago. Apparently, it seemed to be more recent and that loss was still raw inside of him. The inkeep could forgive his actions, but she’d keep his temperament in mind. But it was his talk of The Eternal that distracted her from the outburst. She had no idea who the mysterious figure was, yet they must have been powerful, to erect such fear from one encounter. “I still don’t understand, why would you come here when you weren’t granted permission?” 

Instead of giving her an answer, Philip stepped back and turned his attention to the letter. Annika could only watch in silence as he broke the seal and scanned the page. She didn’t think he’d show her the letter and was surprised when he handed it to her. The fledgling began to read it on instinct, but stopped when Philip spoke. Whatever he was wrapped up in, Annika would become involved the moment she read it entirely. However, the Elite was surrounded within a pit of vipers and sought outside help. For some reason, he placed his faith in Annika and Derek. 

“It doesn’t matter where you are, does it?” She was saying more to herself than Philip as she continued reading silently. “Infighting, blood-feuds, corruption...it doesn’t end. It lives here...in Brailston, in your Ivory Tower...I can’t get away...” In every corner of society, there seemed to be a game at play. She was tired of trying to avoid it, when it would keep going even if she decided not to play along. The Congregation was supposed to be their haven, a place where she and Derek could live and thrive. If that was no longer possible, where would they go?  

 “I can’t let you be victim of all that, not like I was...I will help you.”

[phillipdelaney-blog]

Letters from Home || Annika&Phillip

[annika-raelyn]

phillipdelaney:

It was all very romantic feeling, the way she spoke and the way all of Crescent Grove seemed to showcase its beauty no matter the angle of view. He could understand why Derek found himself here; this rouge lost vampire finding the most prized piece of his life not just through Annika but the very foundation of her entire family’s heritage here. There was safety here; they could stay here for eternity and never walk into Brailston with him. Why was he so keen on bringing them back? Would they be safer with the numbers of Midnight as he keeps explaining or was he going to get them killed just like his Ivo?

His hands trembled a little.

“Good, this place needs to stay the same. Having a place to come back too is important. I have a house in Dragos that not a lot of people know about, it’s a haven from the noise of Brailston. Vampires need dens– we need places to hide sometimes,” Phillip reassured.

They made bread for a little bit, the time passing quickly and the man he had glamoured to place the lute had changed the tune into something not so sad. It was the knock on the kitchen door that drew his immediate attention; a Courier was looking winded and exhausted tightly holding a scroll in his hand.

“Mr. Phillip Delaney– I have been searching for you for weeks,” the man bowed towards Annika and himself for the intrusion, but Phillip scowled.

“How in the world did you know to come here,” in a blink of an eye he was in the man’s space, hand clasped over his face in a tight squeeze. “No one knew I was.”

“I’m doing my job sir-rr, finding people is wh–at I do,” the man stuttered in fear, Phillip’s fangs were out, and his face had shifted into a bruised red in anger as the world slipped into only sounds of pulses and hunger.

“Who did you talk too,”

“I can’t remember– I went to the Ivory Tower first– then here, but you weren’t here, so I ran to the event in Miervaldis then–”

“Shut up–” the man’s mouth closed with a pop, handshaking with the scroll. Who had told him where he was? So many damming questions. He snarled, releasing the grip on his face which left trails of blood from his nails. Phillip snatched the scroll and told him to go, giving him a coin from his pants as a tip as it seemed he had been doing his job.

Phillip growled. The sound was beastly in tone, frustrated ate at him, and he was sure if Annika hadn’t been in the room with him he would have killed that man.

“No one– and I mean no one, but my Edmund knows I am here,” he couldn’t fathom Edmund telling anyone, and he could feel his bond, he was safe– not killed like Ivo. “I shouldn’t have come here– dammit. I didn’t want this place to be ruined for you both. Always more questions. Never answers.”  

Annika watched the display with masked horror. She could smell the courier’s fear as it tainted it the air, the scent mixing with Phillip’s own fury. Her jaw clenched and she tried and failed to keep her fangs from sliding from her gums. She understood the Elite’s anger, but his assault was uncalled for. The poor messenger was bleeding and he was only given a coin for the abuse he suffered. 

Philip treated the courier like he was nothing and Annika knew that feeling all too well. She remember being viewed as just a thing that was nothing other than tool. That man was more than just a thing that carried messages. He was someone, and he didn’t deserve punishing for doing what he was likely glamoured to do. “I have no idea what all that was about, but you do not treat people that way under my roof, Phillip. Things may be done differently where you come from, but anyone on my property is under my protection. Glamouring my musician can be overlooked, but that is not allowed here.”  

That was the first time she’d seen a Vampire act so lawlessly. She knew the others within the Grove might behave in a similar manner, but it was a rule that her grounds were off-limits. No fights. No quarrels with wolves. No abusing power. Annika didn’t wait for a response or an ‘I understand’. She simply pressed with her next questions. “And what do you mean you’ve ruined this place? Why would you come here if you’re mixed up in something that shouldn’t be following you?” She crossed her arms over her chest, the comfort she felt with him earlier fading. Now, she was skeptical of the Elite and wondered just why Derek trusted him.

“If my family and I...if Derek might be in danger because of you, then you need to start explaining now.” 

[annika-raelyn]

Glass Hillside ||SWP|| Annika+Farryn

[annika-raelyn]

farryn-of-athoria:

Perhaps Farryn had latched onto the status of this newborn too quickly. As time raced on it became apparent that the woman had a great deal of humanity left. It almost made Farryn feel guilty for badgering her about the more gruesome aspects of her lifestyle. “Your secret is safe….” Farryn looked away rather than be seen regretting her spite and judgment. She had seldom encountered vampires with a conscience. Her eyes followed the boy intently. Her senses trained to pick him from a crowd of other defenseless children. 

As the vampire rushed to the boys side, Farryn found herself running at full speed to their aid. “They don’t know what you are. IF you keep running like that they will all find out soon enough. Let me take him back. I care little if they know I am a wolf. I will get him to safety and you can meet me. I know I made little of our first impression but this….” The locust descended on them in a black cloud blotting out the night sky without mercy. “As if the crops and harvest weren’t suffering enough.”

Farryn swung the child up into her arms with ease despite the pain in her shoulder and thighs. The sound of locust drowned out all the shrieks and cries of parents. She knew that not all the children would make it, there was no sound more chilling than a mother’s cry of loss. She could still hear the sounds in her sleep. She held out her hand to the vampire with a more tolerant look than she had given before. “He’s alive. Let’s get him home and then perhaps I owe you a drink for an apology. I still do not entirely trust the dead but something tells me I may have been too quick this time.” 

Annika almost argued against the wolf’s request. But someone of her stature, lugging around a child of Adam’s age, might raise suspicions. Living in Leeds taught her that every wall had eyes and ears, even the very ground. One could never be too sure, even among the chaos around them. “Fine, you take him, then.” She said, allowing Farryn to sweep the boy into her arms. The vampire swatted her hands to keep away any of the stray pests, but it didn’t do her much good. Annika hoped like hell that they closed the shutters and doors back at Brightview. Especially the kitchen; she didn’t need the food they already had going to waste. “Gods above...what will people eat, come the winter?” 

She wasn’t really expecting an answer to that question. The newborn knew it wouldn’t be something she wanted to hear. Brightview would have to close and the grains in storage would be rationed among her employees and family. But what happened when there was no more left? Annika could already feel the devastation and hopeless of those around her. There was fear too, so much that it made her feel suffocated. “Yes, Adam first...then I can worry about my home later...Despite how we met, I’m glad you were here to help.” 

Together, they trekked back to the inn. As they grew closer to their goal, more ravaging followed in their wake. Crops were seemingly vaporized from the soil, as if they were never there at all. Farmers ran about in panic, swinging torches, trying to do anything to ward off the buzzing pillagers. Luckily, Brightview appeared to be safe from too much harm. Her father’s farm was stripped naked, but the windows of the farmhouse and inn were sealed shut. Annika ushered her companions to the back door and knocked rapidly. 

“Open up! It’s Annika and we’ve got Adam!” A few more urgent knocks followed until she heard the latches twist. The door opened enough for them to get through and it slammed shut as soon as they were inside. The cook practically dove into Farryn’s arms to take her child. "Not to worry, he’s alive and breathing. He’s just sleeping for now...a Changeling possessed him. All of this seems be tied to them and magic.” The cook thanked them both for helping and promised a hot plate and mead for she-wolf. Leaving them to tend to Adam, Annika bid the wolf to follow her out the kitchen and into dining area. As soon as the door slipped shut behind her, she let out a heavy sigh and sagged into the nearest chair. 

“If you’re from Hala, I’d suggest getting back here as soon as possible. Crescent Grove is no longer paradise, apparently.” 

[phillipdelaney-blog]

Letters from Home || Annika&Phillip

[annika-raelyn]

phillipdelaney:

“Oh, it has been. Thank you,” Phillip didn’t turn right away, letting her presence comfort him from a few paces away. The scent of Annika was unlike anything he’s ever experienced, maybe because she feasted on Doll’s so much it made her own sweet and tantalizing, but Phillip knew it was more than that. She has bonded– especially to this town, this Inn, to Derek, to her self, Annika’s touch and love spread beyond borders, and Phillip had been welcomed into such a loving atmosphere without much resistance. If only his heart could beat–, it would have hammered in appreciation alone.

He turned around and offered her a lousy smile that didn’t entirely meet his eyes.

“I am sorry for the melancholy Annika, it has nothing to do with you and your home,” he sighed, leaning back on his hands currently covered in flour. “I haven’t had many opportunities in Brailston to show off I know how to bake bread, so I am taking the chance too. I do miss the scents of toasting seeds–” He paused when his lip deceived him in a subtle tremor of sadness. It irritated him he was struggling so much, but this place would heal him through the holidays, and he would come back to Midnight as a proper force to reckon with.

“Hrm, my progeny Ivo use to smell like warm tones such as this. I’m trying not to bring this rain cloud hanging over my head throughout all of Crescent Grove. I really hope that wasn’t what lured you in here, and was because you would rather help me? You could tell me about this place, or ask some questions about Midnight?” he grinned, but it was only a flash of his usual level, though it was impossible to miss how much her very presence had brought him a lot of peace.

"Well I’m glad to hear that, I thought I wasn’t able to live up to the hospitality of Brailston.” She offered him a kind grin, a direct contrast to his half-smile. “You might miss the smell...” Annika retorted. “...but, imagine being tantalized by it every day, all day. It would drive you insane.” When sadness suddenly tore back at Philip, it was the mention of Ivo that stood out and those words ‘used to’. She realized he was in mourning then, which made her chest suddenly ache. Despite her curiosity, Annika knew better than to pry, not after he pushed away the topic so quickly. “Ah, yes I did just come down here to talk to you...I did have some questions, but I do realize that I have slipped up on my host duties a bit.” 

The Fledgling rolled back her sleeves and dipped her hands in the washbowl. After drying them, she picked up some cumin and began to sprinkle it on the dough he was kneading. If was going to add pumpkin seeds, then he’d need the proper spices to accompany it. “This Inn and the small farm next door has been in my family since Crescent Grove’s beginning. The very walls were forged from the enchanted earth here. My father said that Brightview gets its name from the way the sun shines on the Summer Solstice.” Annika grabbed some nutmeg as well and added it to the mixture.

“We used to own more land and a good deal of the other surrounding properties, up until a couple generations ago. Now, this is all that’s left to us. But Brightview Inn has become the center of commerce here since it landed in my hands.” She took a pinch of sugar as well, just to add a hint of sweetness. “My father was ready to close this place up, but its our legacy, and I’ve made sure that it sticks around, even when I’m not here anymore.” Annika didn’t mean death of course, but she knew that she’d leave after the winter and she wasn’t sure for how long. 

[daftorpunk]

It’s great to know that young black girls are seeing themselves on TV as leading ladies, and I’m part of that. It’s just such an honor.

[phillipdelaney-blog]

Letters from Home || Annika&Phillip

[annika-raelyn]

phillipdelaney:

Crescent Grove

Phillip would deny forever and ever how much he was enjoying being in Crescent Grove. He’s visited the country before, and compared to any other city in the country, the place was open and freeing in old family architecture and worn pathways. There was also an energy here that he’s not felt before. Maybe it was because of the spectacular event from the closing fissure that left a residue of magic here, or it was the ancient feuds causing the soils to be fertile from their secret violence. Either way, Phillip was thankful to be out of Brailson, for lack of better words, he needed the break.

Right now he was enjoying a sweet tasting cigarette in the kitchen of the Inn. He was making bread, his hands coated in flour and rolled the dough with ease in his natural strength. A cute apron resided around his neck and tied along the lower bone of his spine. There was a glamoured man sitting at the table playing the lute for him, filling the space with a calm melody that was far too melancholy but did encompass his grieving mood.

Phillip didn’t usually expose he knew how to make things like bread. He was someone always dressed up, even in Leeds as a human he had tried to hide the fact he was under the iron fist of his Father’s business by wearing beautiful clothes and trading for pretty things. He had packed three trunks full of his favorite outfits, many designed by Ashley– but being around Derek and Annika and their strange homey bond made him forgo the theatrics and wear a simple tunic and tights today– even going barefoot which was a new sensation.

“Wait–” he looked over to the man on the table as if they cared about his opinion on bread, “we have pumpkin seeds– hrmm.” Phillip tapped his chin, “I wonder if this will taste good.” 

When Derek returned, Annika had no idea that he’d bring a member of the Congregation with him. At first, she didn’t know what to think of Philip Delaney because he was everything Derek wasn’t – a stylish socialite with the charm of a prince. How he ended up associating with a man as distant as Derek was beyond her. Despite their contrasting appearances, her Maker must have trusted the Elite, otherwise he’d have never brought him to the Grove. Not to mention that Derek could use more friends and Philip made a fine candidate. The Fledgling got along with him instantly and found his presence refreshing. 

But when Annika found him in the kitchen, he seemed to be brooding in his own way. Sorrowful music trickled through the room and the scent of sadness crept beneath her nose. Instantly, her brows furrowed in concern and her pace slowed as she approached him. “Philip?” She said, finding it shocking that he was actually cooking. A sliver of envy ran through her, knowing that she could never truly enjoy the end-product of the dough he was kneading. Annika missed food more than she thought she would. Sometimes’ she’d scarf down a tart or piece of chicken, knowing fully well she’d pay for it later. “Are you alright? I thought the place had been treating you well...” 

[barryirisallens]

[annika-raelyn]

Never Let Me Go ||FB|| Annika+Derek

[annika-raelyn]

derekryder:

For a short while, Derek could only relish in the gulps of crimson liquid satisfying the monstrous parts of his predatory specie. In that moment he was but a hunter eating his prey, obtaining the sustenance he needed in order to survive. But it was, in fact, just a ploy. There was no sensible reason why vampires should feed on one another, no biological explanation except to take control, or to arouse. Because in that moment Derek realized that he had never fed on another of his kind, and Annika’s blood against the corners of his mouth – a place that was reserved for violence and loneliness – unleashed a terrorized emotion that had been locked away for centuries. And when his lust surfaced, Derek groaned against her neck like a lover would, thinking that it was his own fault, thinking that he had allowed himself to succumb to a sin and desire that he voluntarily chose to keep locked away in order to survive. But it was not his own doing…

Annika’s passion could be plucked from the air and swallowed by passers-by. Her lack of control and young immortality allowed nothing to be hidden, and it was then that Derek took into account the entire situation. And he heard her…heard the humming in her throat, the moan of his name that escaped her own lips like a curse, and he felt her against his leg and her own vampyric lust secreting from her movements…

Confusion was easy to muster. Internally, a series of “I didn’t mean too” and “I’m sorry” wanted to stutter from his lips to prove to Annika that this…this was not who he was – that she had suffered enough in the sex houses in Leeds and Derek did not turn her into a life of immortality only for her to repeat her actions with the one that gifted that life to her. Yet he was torn by the taste of her dead blood against his teeth, and the noises she tried to hard to hide only fueled Derek’s own, slightly uncontrollable need to have her…

But against all instinct, he stopped the feed.

Derek’s fangs ached and he pressed his forehead against her cheek, his lips hovering over the open incision. He worried he had torn her throat apart, chewed the ligaments and forgot about how much he cared for her, that she was just another prison in his cage…but she was far from it. Derek’s body twitched against her own. He worried for her wound, and brought his wrist to her mouth. He closed his eyes, pressing his face into the wetness of her hair, finding himself breathing deeply as if he was human. His voice was low and sultry, grumbling from the deep parts of his throat.

 "Drink,“

The second he stopped feeding, reality crashed into her like a wave. She was just on the cusp of falling apart beneath him, so close that it was difficult to ignore the ache between her legs. She wanted to ask him why he stopped, wanted to wrap her legs around his waist and beg Derek to finish what he started. Instead, she did as told and fasted her lips around his wrist. She gently pressed her free hand on his chest, a silent plea for him to move off her. In the absence of his weight, she drew her legs together, trying to focus on the taste of his blood instead the heaviness that hung between them. 

The blood of a vampire was often described as ‘dead’, but Annika thought otherwise. Her Maker’s blood was the very essence of everything he was. It contained the taste of his skin and smell of his hair. In his blood, lied Derek’s rare grin, brooding eyes, and dark tone. She’d grown lost in the feeding, but only a few moments merely passed. Retracting her fangs, she lowered his wrist and grasped his hand. “Thank you for that.” Annika pressed a hand to her neck slightly marveling at the properties of his blood. Finally, her dark eyes trailed over to him, her expression saying everything that she couldn’t. 

She wanted him to know that it was okay, that what he’d done and roused within her wasn’t something to apologize for or be ashamed of. Annika might have been a sex worker in the past, but that profession was a form a self-destruction for her. She gained little pleasure from those experiences, but with Derek it was different. If she wanted him off her, she’d have rejected him the moment he began to feed. He had her full consent to consummate the unsaid feelings hanging between them. Though perhaps now wasn’t the time, it would only complicate his leaving and start a fire they weren’t ready to weather yet. “We should head back, sun will be up in a few hours...” 

[annika-raelyn]

Glass Hillside ||SWP|| Annika+Farryn

[annika-raelyn]

farryn-of-athoria:

“By Gaia…..” Farryn looked to the crevice in anticipation and awe. It was as nothing she had ever seen before and there they were headed straight for the center of the unknown. “Wait, stop.” Farryn caught her breath half way to the bottom. Her injuries had not been kind to her. 

As they got to the bottom it was clear that the boy was not just human. “Assuming that a leech is up to noble deeds……? hmmm It would be the first time in history I have been wrong about the lot of you.” Farryn was beyond the point of being on edge. The vampire and the children who weren’t children at all coupled with the giant hole in the earth was not setting the mood for a carefree atmosphere. 

In that moment Farryn had more than bloodsuckers to worry about. It was children, hundreds of them it seemed. Their faces branded into her brain, blank stares into the blue glowing unknown. “Its not normal. I sense something sinister at work.” The only thought in her head was saving them. She had no idea how but she wanted to pry them all away, to make a difference. She had let her brother down and by Gaia, she would not let these kids down. 

“What do we do about this?”

If steam could flow from Annika’s ears, they would have. She wasn’t angry, but each time the wolf mentioned vampires, she wanted to slap her. The fledgling was aware of the prejudices surrounding her kind. What else could others think of creatures that drank blood to survive? Still, it was unwise to assume they were all inherently evil. After her time in Leeds, Annika learned that people, no matter the species, always had a choice. They could choose to be decent or immerse themselves in wickedness. Vampires were no different, even if a large percentage of them had bad reputations. 

“Please, don’t call me that.” Annika asked in a clipped tone as they waded through the mass of kids. “Especially not in front of people here...” She lowered her voice so that only Farryn could hear. “They don’t know what I am.” Each time she spied Adam, he seemed to disappear and blend back into the crowd. She wished she could use her speed, but that was a curtain she wasn’t ready to pull back around others. Besides, part of her wanted nothing more than to flee from the scene. A great deal of the children had odd features, their faces something out of storybooks and nightmares. “I...I think they’re Changelings.” Annika breathed. “And where’s there’s magic, there’s not much we can do about it.” 

The ground suddenly began to vibrate then. It wasn’t violent like an earthquake, but a rumbling that made her skin crawl. Almost in unison, the creatures inside the children began to leave their hosts. The wads of energy poured from their mouths and went straight into the glowing crevice. She was only able to spot Adam because he stopped moving and seemed to convulse as the creature left him. Rushing to his side, she caught the boy before he could crumple to the ground. The gentle rise and fall of his chest indicated that he was alive, but there was no time to further inspect him. A hoard of locust began to emerge from the fissure, so much that Annika could no longer see the moon. 

[annika-raelyn]

Never Let Me Go ||FB|| Annika+Derek

[annika-raelyn]

derekryder:

Engulfed by the sea should have seemed terrifying, given it was the middle of winter and the ocean was as black as the sky, and they were so alone that their laughs echoed across the bottom of the earth through ripples of sand. The waves kept Derek unsteady, and when he would surfaced another one would swallow him whole. His arms snaked around Annika’s waist and he pulled her so close to him that their weight sank them to the sandy bottom. The motion of the water swayed them back and forth, the darkness consumed them but Derek only saw light through Annika’s eyes. Above, the waves crashed on the surface and when it broke, the bubbles spilled around her frame to give her a unique atmosphere. Her hair flared in all directions, yet she was beautiful, even submerged in the depths of the sea.

He let her go and she rose with her back towards the surface, her dress and hair making her seem like a floating ghost above him.

Derek pushed from the ground and swam upwards once more. They were far out now, and Derek wondered for a moment what else was out there…how long could they swim until the elements weathered them down? 

Together they swam back to the beach, riding waves until their toes dug into the sandy shores of the north. Derek fell onto his back in the sand, ushering Annika towards his side so they could stare at the stars. Silence was interrupted only by the continued crash of waves, a sound that echoed and carried forever across the tops of the sea. Annika’s emotions were contagious. Her lack of uneasiness was not lost upon him – rather he questioned it, and was confused by it. His entire life was spent alongside victims inside his cages, and loneliness, and not once had Annika told him he was wrong for his past. Not once had Annika told him that he wan’t worth a full life.

Derek tilted his head and watched her count the stars; there was an innocence inside of her still that caused an ache deep inside of his stomach… a yearning that rumbled in deeper, intimate places. His fangs slid from his gums at the thought of ripping that innocence away from her forever. How much had he ruined her life by sucking her soul from her veins?

His mouth was on her neck like a viper to its prey. He rolled his body halfway onto hers, pressing the weight of his leg between her own, and wanting nothing more than taste that innocence once again.

When he tugged her beneath the gloom she didn’t resist. As a human, she couldn’t enjoy the true pleasure of the ocean. No longer would she fear drowning. No longer would she fear the dark waters at night, for she could see Derek as if it were day. Annika’s hand traced the line of his jaw, lips curving into a grin as he seemed to grow lost in her gaze. It made her feel like a Mermaid, captivating a poor male before luring him into the depths. Part of her wished they could stay like that forever, suspended in that moment of blissful resonance. Yet sooner than she wanted, he let her go and she floated up to the surface. 

Once they swam back to the shore, Annika wrung out her skirts a bit, though they still clung to her like a second skin. She was aware that the fabric had taken on a sheer tone, revealing her smallclothes underneath. Regardless, Annika wasn’t afraid to be seen by her Maker, if anything, the notion slightly excited her. Uneasiness crept into her at that realization; not only did she care for Derek, but wanted him as well. His leaving only complicated those matters, so once again she forced herself to cast aside such thoughts and focused on the evening sky. 

Annika’s dark eyes sought shapes in the stars, silently pointing out the constellations. She even thought she spied a planet or two and had the luck of seeing a falling star. The fledgling hadn’t known how long they lain there in silence, but the quiet didn’t bother her one bit. They didn’t need words to enjoy one another’s company, only their presence mattered. 

Out of the corner of her eye, she saw him staring at her felt the air shift between them. The scent of his intent was thick on her nose, a second before fangs latched to her throat. It wasn’t the first time he fed on her, but it was usually from the wrist. This was far more intimate and their connection seemed to ignite from the union. “Derek h–” The words died on her tongue as she gasped, eyes wide before becoming heavy-lidded. 

Fangs snapped from her own gums and Annika’s skin felt like it was vibrating from pleasure she’d never known. She found herself involuntarily writhing against Derek’s thigh, his hunger seeping into her flesh like venom. Will it always be like this? Annika wondered, biting down on her bottom lip. It was all she could do to keep herself from moaning or sinking her teeth right into his shoulder. She wasn’t sure if the feeding was this intense due to her new senses or their bond or both. At that moment, she didn’t care. An impending climax tugged at her core and she couldn’t find it in her to resist it’s arrival.