Treasure's Slice of the World

My mahmen never wanted me to know the world I come from. But, now that she's gone, I find myself strangely drawn to learn more. || 21+ MC Roleplay ||

[veiledtreasurebdbrp]

WHAT DID I DO?! w/@TroubleWACapT

Treasure:

Waking up, my body felt like someone had beat every single inch of it. Slowly I opened my eyes, and gazed around a room I had never seen. The room was pretty stark. There was a plain, wooden dresser on the wall to my right with a mirror; a small, simple nightstand in the corner, to my left; and on the wall opposite of the bed I was lying in was a closed door. I could hear muffled sounds of people on the other side and my imagination went wild. Looking under the covers, I realized that I only had a nightshirt on. I sat up, I pulled the covers to my neck, and tried to remember anything I could of the past few days. Where the hell was I? How did I get here? What was the last thing I remembered? I wracked my brain trying to remember any details of coming here. The only thing I could remember was… calling Havers! The last thing I remembered was calling Havers and giving myself the shot. This wasn’t Havers’, though.

Terror bled through my thoughts as I got up and quietly began to investigate the room. On top of the nightstand was my phone, plugged into a wall charger and an ordinary, unobtrusive lamp. There was nothing inside the drawer. Next I went over to the dresser. The top drawer was filled with packages of underwear, unopened. I found my clothes in the middle drawer, cleaned and folded, along with some other random clothes of different sizes. In the bottom drawer were clean sheets for the bed.

Double-checking the door, I grabbed my clothes from the middle drawer and began to change back into them. I couldn’t get out of the nightshirt and into them fast enough. Everything about this whole situation just felt wrong.

Teyanna:

We were short-staffed, but had tried to make sure Treasure didn’t wake up alone, not after everything she had been through. We weren’t sure how much of it she would remember upon awakening and wanted her to know she was completely safe. We had someone in her room round the clock since she arrived, waiting for the medication to finally wear off, however tonight we had a number of emergency intakes at once and I had been pulled away from her room. I was positive that when I got back, she was going to be awake and terrified.

As soon as I was done with the last intake, I rushed back to her room and quietly knocked on the door. “Treasure?” I could hear shuffling on the other side of the door and knew she had woken up. “Treasure, it’s just me, Teyanna… from Havers.” I strained for any sounds. I can’t even imagine how she must be feeling, waking up in a place she had never been before, after all she had just been through.

Treasure:

The knock on the door froze me in place. The places my mind went, envisioning who might be on the other side of the door, were terrifying. The first place my mind went was of course to: someone had figured out what I was, and now they were keeping me hostage, to turn me over to the Brotherhood, who would use me as concubine to force me to breed with them all. I could literally hear the blood rushing through my body until I heard the name of the person on the other side of the door. Teyanna? What was she doing here? How was she a part of it all? Did Teyanna know the Brotherhood? Panic-stricken, I scanned the room again. There was no way out except for the one door.

I thought through my options. They were few. I could let her open the door and try to run, however seeing as there are no windows, there was no way to know if I was going to run outside into the sun; not let her in and stay in this room forever, which really wasn’t an option; or I could let her in, bide my time until I knew it was dark and then run. That seemed like the only reasonable option.

“What do you want Teyanna?” I asked, trying to delay the inevitable.

Teyanna:

I could hear the tremble in her voice and couldn’t understand her hesitation. Why would she not be relieved to know it was me? I understood being a little afraid after what she went through and waking up the way she had, but knowing that someone she knew was here should settle those nerves. She must remember the whole thing and be getting things mixed up. The medication must be intertwining memories, confusing her.

“Treasure, I just want to make sure you are okay. You’ve been through quite an ordeal.” I really wanted to speak to her in person, not through a door. When the doggen had called and told us that they had to use half of the medication sent with them on a male vampire that had found her and mated her, we knew that the only logical place to have them bring her was Safe Place. There were no males here and we were going to need to give her more medication to get her through the rest of her needing. The fact that the memories of the male were getting mixed into what was happening now, was going to make this situation that much harder. “You’re safe. Actually, you’re at Safe Place. We brought you here after we found you.”

Treasure:

My heart began to slow. Safe Place? I had heard of it. It was a home for abused females. We sent a lot of females there from Havers. Abused, beaten, broken females and their young. Why would I be at Safe Place? I wasn’t abused, or beaten, or least of all broken… or was I? My body did feel like a truck had hit it. I assumed that was from my needing. I lifted my shirt and walked to the mirror. There was bruising and what looked like healing scratches across my back and hips. What the hell happened to me? Teyanna mentioned an ordeal. The only thing that would qualify as an ordeal was being abducted, which brought me back to my original assumption. She’s lying to me about being at Safe Place. I was being held captive to be offered up to the Brotherhood and Teyanna was part of the whole thing. That’s probably why she worked at Havers, to check people’s blood as they came through, looking for a unicorn. Looking for me.

Okay, back to my original plan. The only way out was through. I was going to need to be onguard, let her in and see how trusting of me I could make these people. I needed to get out of wherever I was. With this in mind, I walked over to the bed, sat down and called out, “Come on in.”

Teyanna:

A small sense of relief washed over me as Treasure called out for me to come in. I was worried she would lock herself away in the room for a while. Unfortunately, as I walked into the room, I could see wary eyes following my every move. It really confused me. How was I suddenly a threat? What situation did her mind weave around this whole circumstance? I decided not to move too far into the room and I left the door open behind me, trying to show her I was not a threat.

“I’m sorry for the way you woke up. I have been making sure that someone was with you 24 hours a day since you arrived, but we are short staffed tonight and we had a few too many emergency intakes, so I had to leave you for a bit.” I wanted to check her over, see how her bruises were healing, but I didn’t think now was a good time for that. I obviously was going to have to go slow with her.

Suddenly, a giggling young raced past the door behind me and I saw pure astonishment and confusion cross Treasure’s features. “Treasure, you are safe. There is no one here that is going to hurt you. The male that we found you has been taken care of.” More confusion. She really has been put through the ringer, physically and mentally.

Treasure:

Teyanna strode into the room, blatantly trying to make me feel safe. I was sure there would probably be armed guards just outside that door, though. More than likely, there were Brothers out there somewhere just waiting to get their hands on me. I furrowed my slender brows slightly at her as she came to a stop. On with the charade of being at Safe Place…

Then a young ran past the door. Wow! How far will they go? Or, am I crazy? Slowly, I stood up and walked around Teyanna. She just stayed in one place, watching me. I got to the door and looked up and down the hallway. There were a few children and mahmens walking to the end of the hallway and up the stairs at the end. I couldn’t have been more confused, until the words Teyanna said hit me like a brick. The male that they found me with?! What male? What the hell is going on?

Whipping back around to face her, I blurted, “What male? Where am I? What happened? Please, I need the truth.”

Teyanna:

Oh, crap! She doesn’t remember the male. What is she so afraid of, then? “Treasure, we weren’t the first ones to find you. When the doggen got to you, they found you mating with a male vampire. He must have been drawn to you because of your needing. The two of you had obviously been involved for quite some time. They ended up needing to use half of the medication they brought with them just to subdue the male. Unfortunately, that didn’t leave them with enough to get you through your needing and that is why we brought you here. We have been giving you medication here to get you through it. It was the safest place to bring you that you wouldn’t be near any males.” At this point I could see the horror in Treasure’s eyes and she rushed past me, back into the room.

Treasure:

My gut sank, the further into the story Teyanna got. Visions of this male she spoke about popped into my head, slowly at first, as if some kind of faded dream. I couldn’t see it all, just slivers. One particular sliver terrified me more than anything else ever would and I rushed off to the mirror above the dresser in the room I had been in. Closing my eyes, I slowly pulled my collar off my shoulder. I didn’t want to open my eyes and see what I knew was going to be there, but I needed to know. Sure enough, faded tooth marks shown on the side of my neck. No! The male tasted my blood! He would know. The secret I guarded with my life was now out because of some ridiculously stupid mistake on my part. My life was now on the line more so than ever before. I could hear my mahmen’s voice in my ear, “Never let any male drink from your veins, my nalla. No matter what. Your life depends on it. Do you hear me?”

I had heard her and up until now, I had kept the promise I made to her. Now, I had let my mahman down, I had let Alexandria down, and I had put my own life at risk. “Where is the male? What happened to him?” I needed to know anything I could. The more I knew the better prepared I would be for what might happen next. Plus, with my blood coursing through my veins, he would be able to find me now.

Teyanna:

Following Treasure back into the room, I watched carefully as she looked at the bite mark on her neck. “It’s almost healed honey.” I tried to reassure her, but it was as if she didn’t even realize I had walked back into the room.

“The male? Oh, we brought him to Havers until the medication wore off, then we released him. He wasn’t from here. I’m guessing he went back home. Did you want to see him again? Havers won’t be able to give you his information, but I’m sure we can figure out a way to get a message to him.”

Behind me, one of the volunteers stuck her head in and let me know we had another intake. “I’ll be right there.”

Turning back to Treasure, I said, “Treasure, honey, are you going to be okay?”

She just sank onto the bed and nodded.

“Okay. If you get hungry, the kitchen is at the top of the stairs at the end of the hall. It’s daytime, so you won’t want to leave now, but I’d like to get a look at your bruises one more time before you leave, anyway. I’d also like to discuss what happened to you a little more and...” I hesitated for a minute, but it had to be said. “We should also discuss the possibility of you being with young.” I knew it was a lot for her to take in, but when she called in to us, it seemed like she had been fleeing something and I wanted to try to help her, if I could.

Treasure:

My body just fell to the bed. The visions made it all real. This was not what I had thought it was. This was not me being abducted and taken to the Brotherhood, although it was almost as bad and could lead to that happening. A male had drank of my vein. It was exactly why I left town in the first place. I had scored my wrist and almost offered it up to Lohre. The realization of that, at the time, had put me in such a tailspin that I immediately packed my camper and left town. Now, I had put myself in a position where I had mated with a male and allowed him to taste my blood. He had to know what I was now. He would know how to find me. Ironic wasn’t it? I left town because I was afraid that I had almost let a male that stirred some really strong feelings in me, drink from me, only to leave town and let some male I didn’t even know do it. This male could be a crazed lunatic! I don’t even know who he was! Then Teyanna’s last comment sank in. With. Young. I could be carrying a young inside me. I watched Teyanna leave, got up and shut the door, then went back to bed and cried.

#WhatDidIDo?! #SASBDB BDBRPG

[veiledtreasurebdbrp]

Ecstasy

Groping hands sent a fire through my body that I’d never experienced before. All that went through my mind was, “More!” and in cue with that, my hips lifted, as if to seek out the body that went along with those hands. In response, I heard a low growl rumble deep, and shudders rolled through my body in places that had never been awakened before. Quickly, I felt clothes sliding off me and dropping to the floor as those strong hands moved up my torso, across my shoulders, hips, and legs. Then they were gone for a minute and I could vaguely hear my own voice, as if so far in the distance, “No! Don’t go away! Come back!”

“I’ve gone nowhere.” Came a deep, raspy voice. “I’ve gotta get these fucking pants off!”

It seemed like a lifetime before those hands came back and when they did, I sucked in a deep breath, reaching my own forward, across the body of the male that was exploring me. He was a large male, with an incredibly muscular body that was naked and hovering over me.

Fingers grazed my nipples and sensations I’ve never felt rocked my body. Then his lips took over and his hands made their way further down my torso. Somewhere in the back of my mind, I knew this wasn’t right, but everything else in my body was screaming for this male and I gripped onto him, pulling his body to mine.

The large length between his legs poked into me and instinctively I raised my hips to meet it. That low growl now rumbled through my chest now, as his chest rested on my own and it created a sense of urgency in me. Grabbing at his shaft, I pushed it down to meet my core, not quite knowing what I was doing, but it just felt like the thing to do. He moved himself into position and slid himself inside of me. The feeling of that movement was painful for a second, but then as he pulled back out and thrust back in, it sent shockwaves of delirium throughout my entire being and I sank my teeth into his neck. Blood rushed into my mouth as I could feel him moving inside me. For a time, everything seemed so out of sorts. My body was experiencing a new, sexual euphoria as we moved together, all the while his hands were still squeezing my breasts and pinching my nipples making the experience even more surreal. Suddenly, I felt his teeth against my neck and he bit down and started drawing my blood in. That’s when it went from out of sorts to completely clouded. My body turned into a frenzy and I couldn’t pull him any closer to me. Suddenly, an unbridled eruption of ecstasy ripped through my body and I trembled uncontrollably. The male gripped a hold of me tight and groaned low in his gut, slowing for a minute. But, as soon as the trembling stopped, I pushed him over on his back and started to move on top of him. I never wanted this to stop. Screw the voice in the back of my head! This was what I needed! Forever! Just this male and me, doing this for the rest of my life and into The Fade.

We went on for what seemed like hours before fervent, hostile voices interrupted us. Arms reached in, trying to pull this male from me and I wrapped my entire being around him to keep that from happening. I could hear his threatening snarl as the others got close and it seemed to make my nipples even harder than they were, and I rocked a little more forcefully against him.

“Fuck!” It was the male’s voice.

Abruptly, I felt him stand and push me behind him, but I still couldn’t get enough of this powerful male. My hands roamed along his back, butt, and hips, finally reaching around his front in an attempt to pull him back to me. He was still rock hard and I gently wrapped my fingers around him. He let out a groan and turned to me. Next thing I knew he was slumping to the ground in front of me and I hit my knees next to him. “No!” A prick in my neck, then all things went black.

#Ecstasy #SASBDB #BDBRPG

[veiledtreasurebdbrp]

TIME SLIPS BY

The sickness that I had been experiencing over the past couple of days was becoming worse and it wasn’t until the muscle aches kicked in that I realized exactly what was happening to me. Quickly, I grabbed my phone and rifled through my calendar to check on dates. How had I been so foolish? How could I have not taken this into consideration during the move to Caldwell? But, the dates were off. This was too soon. I wasn’t due for another year, or so. I hobbled to my bathroom and rummaged through my medicine cabinet. One syringe, that was all I had. One syringe would get me through the next few hours, but not through the entirety of my needing. I was going to need more. The only place I knew for a fact that I could get more was the one place I didn’t want to go. Thankfully, I wasn’t going anywhere in the state I was in. However, I was going to have to make a phone call that I really didn’t want to make.

Scrolling through my contacts, I stopped at the number in my phone for “Work” and hit send. It barely rang once when a soft female voice came through the phone. “Alicia. It’s me, Treasure. I need your help.”

“Treasure! What’s going on, honey? You ran out of here so fast, the other day. Is everything okay? What can I do?” Alicia was the sweetest. We had bonded immediately. She reminded me of Alexandria. She had that same instincts as a mahmen, yet the acceptance of an aunt. The type of person you could tell anything to… well, almost anything. My origin was one thing that I had yet to tell anyone. Even Amari didn’t know about where I had come from.

I buckled down in another wave of pain. Grunting, I replied, “Needing. My needing has hit a little early and I’m not prepared.”

“Oh, Virgin Scribe! Honey where are you? Tell me what you need and I’ll bring it to you.” I could hear the fear in her voice. We all knew what happened when you weren’t prepared. First off, the pain was excruciating… and it lasted up to a full day. But, the fact that I didn’t know where I was was not a good thing, at all. When a vampire goes into their needing, they produce these pheromones, which can be scented for quite a distance. If I were somewhere close to male vampires and not know it, I could be in colossal danger.

Gritting my teeth through the pain, “I am about 125 miles outside of town. I have one syringe, but it will only get me through a few hours.”

I heard a small gasp coming from the other end of the phone. “Treasure! What are you doing all the way out there? I don’t know how we are going to get…” There was a pause and a shuffle against the phone. Faintly, I could hear a conversation going on. Then Alicia was back on the line. “Treasure, honey, you still there?”

Nodding, I replied, “Yes.”

“Okay, here’s what we need you to do. We need you to tell us exactly where you are. We are going to send a doggen to you with what you will need to get through this.” More muffled conversation.

“I’m at Paradise Campgrounds just off exit 256 on the I-80. You can’t miss me. I’m in the camper outfitted for a vampire.” At least I still had some sense of humor. “I’ll be waiting.”

The phone fell to the floor as another wave of pain crashed through my body. It almost felt like my bones were splitting. I plucked the covering off the syringe with my teeth, pushed up on the plunger just a little too much to get the air out of it. Well, that was going to lose me some time. Thrusting the needle into my arm, I pushed the rest of the plunger down, allowing the medication to rush through my veins. Sliding to the floor, I knew it was okay to let my consciousness slip for a bit. It would be a while before the doggen would make it here.

#TimeSlipsBy #SASBDB #BDBRP

[veiledtreasurebdbrp]

EXHAUSTION AND WEARINESS

Somehow, I managed to get about 100 miles out of town before something caused me to become so sick, I needed to pull over. It was as if every mile I put between Caldwell and me, the illness became more and more severe. By the time I was near the 100 mile mark, I could barely breathe and the nausea was so bad, I was just about keeled over in pain. I put the camper in park along the side of the highway and ran back to the bathroom, where I kissed the porcelain throne for a good two hours. I couldn’t imagine what was causing this illness, nor how it came on so abruptly. But, I decided I would just have to sleep it off where I was. Hopefully, no one would bother me.

Unfortunately, I wasn’t going to be that lucky. I’m not quite sure what time it was when I heard a loud rapping on the door. My body was so wrought with exhaustion that my eyes could barely open, and as the pounding on the door got louder, so did the pounding in my head. I knew I couldn’t answer it, not while the sun shone outside. At least, I was pretty sure the sun was up. So, I kept my eyes closed and tried to ignore the onslaught. Finally, after about 10 minutes, it all stopped and I quickly slipped back into unconsciousness.

Next time I woke up, the camper was tilted up toward the front and it was moving. Crap! I was being towed. To where, I had no clue, but there was no way in hell this was going to turn out well. I steadied myself enough to sit up and look at the clock. 12:37 pm. Even worse. The sun was still up, my camper and car were being towed, and with the few hours of sleep I had gotten, I wasn’t feeling any better. In fact, I was feeling worse, if that were possible.

Gently, I rolled over and pulled my knees into my chest. There was nothing I could do about the situation at the moment, especially with the condition I was in, so I attempted more sleep. It wasn’t likely to happen though. When we arrived at the destination. There were more shakes and jiggles of the whole camper, before we were finally, quietly resting in some tow lot, in Scribe knows where.

Finally, exhaustion and weariness washed over me.

******

The clock read 1:22 am when I finally woke up. I was still feeling completely under the weather, but I had to get moving. I needed to get as far away from Caldwell and this tow lot as possible. So, I made my way to the front of the camper and raised the shudders. I was definitely in an impound lot, full of other vehicles. Thankfully, it looked like a small town lot, one that didn’t have it’s lot manned overnight. There was a padlock on the gate that would be easily cut with cutters.

Quietly, I made my way out of the camper and over to the gate. As soon as I was satisfied no one was around, I took my bolt cutters and clipped off the chain. Once that was done, I opened the gate and as fast as my sick legs could take me, got back into my camper and drove as fast as I could to get out of town.

Problem was, about 25 miles out and my illness so bad I could barely function. I wasn’t going to get towed this time, though. So, I pulled over and looked for the nearest camping site. Checking myself in, I closed down all the shutters and put myself to bed. Hoping that I could nurse myself back to health soon and continue on my way.

As a vampire, I didn’t get sick like this, so I was intensely concerned as to what was going on. Even in all my time working in the medical field, I had never seen anything like this. I was half tempted to call Havers and see if he knew what might be going on. But, calling Havers brought up more emotions than I wanted to think about. It was only a day and a half ago that I was last at Havers, almost offering up my blood to Lohre, before walking out without any notice. I wasn’t sure Havers would want to help me, if I asked. So, I crashed out on my bed and let nature take over, hoping that I just needed a little rest.

#ExhaustionAndWeariness #SASBDB #BDBRPG

[veiledtreasurebdbrp]

REAR VIEW

It took longer than I had expected to pack up the camper. I hadn’t realized how much stuff I had accumulated in such a short amount of time here, in Caldwell. I had gotten complacent, too comfortable. Obviously, I had gotten too comfortable! How had I ever gotten to a place where I was offering up my own vein?! That was the one thing I had always been told to never do. It was the utmost taboo. I was a Chosen. If anyone were ever to catch whiff of my blood, I could be putting myself into serious danger.

When the sanctuary was raided more than 75 years ago now, my mahmen, who was pregnant with me, somehow made it out alive. From everything she has learned, she was one of the few to make it out, and the only one carrying young. So, that meant I was the last of my race, the last of the Chosen. There were many that would kill to acquire my blood, and even more that would kill to acquire me.

Yet, here I was, scoring my vein, all willy-nilly and such, for some male that I knew nothing of. What could have possibly come over me?! It was more than evident that I needed to get the hell out of here and never look back.

Tossing the last of my gear into the storage compartment on the camper, I went back to make sure the car was hitched up properly… which, of course it had been. I had already checked it over four times. It was like I just couldn’t force myself to hop in the front of the camper and start it up. I knew it was what I needed to do. I would be stupid to stay. If I stayed, I would be putting my whole life in jeopardy, not to mention breaking about a dozen promises I had made to Alexandria and my mahmen before they passed unto the Fade.

I took one look around the campsite and turned to step up into the camper. Taking a deep breath, I ascended the stairs, closed the door behind me, sat down in the driver’s seat, and started up the engine. I had absolutely no idea where I was going to go now, but I knew that I needed to put Caldwell in my rear-view. Putting the car in drive, I pulled out of the campground and headed West.

#RearView #SASBDB #BDBRP

[veiledtreasurebdbrp]

IMPOSSIBLE DECISIONS

Terror bled through my veins as the reality of what I had just done hit me like a brick wall. I had just done the one thing my mahmen had always trained me not to do, the one thing I vowed I would never do. All these years of living free, and it could all come crashing down in one, thoughtless millisecond. What the hell was I thinking? This male was nothing to me. He was a male I had paid to take his vein, nothing more. Although, the more I recited those words in my head, the harsher the lie sounded. Somewhere along the way, this male had became more than that. When, I don’t know, because we had not known each other for more than a few weeks, a few feedings. How was it that it took so little time to feel like this male was meant for me? I knew nothing of him. Was this what my mahmen had always sheltered me from? I had heard whispers of how when a male and his mate met, there was a pull between them that overpowered anything else. Was that what this was? I couldn’t possibly be experiencing that. Not only because it wasn’t possible, but it wasn’t probable, it was insane is what it was! How was I ever supposed to keep what I was a secret if I was to be so drawn to someone else that I had no say in it? It all suddenly made sense, everything that my mahmen and Alexandria had taught me. The reasoning behind why I was never to reveal who and what I was to anyone, the reasoning behind why I was never to feed from any male that was not paid specifically for that reason, and the reasoning behind why my mahmen was always so picky as to who she paid for that service. It all made sense. For if I were to ever find my mate, I would not be able to keep away. She and Alexandria had always been so vigilant in choosing who they used for the service of feeding me. I had always thought they went overboard in being as picky as they had. Now, I knew better.

How could I have been so ignorant?! How could I have been so reckless in choosing someone to feed from? Better yet, what was I to do now? How was I to move on from this? Instinct screamed to leave Caldwell and never look back. But, I had come so far in finding the Brotherhood, that if I did leave now, I would surely never find my sisters. So, I had two choices: 1. Leave Caldwell and more than likely never find where I truly belonged, or 2. Allow fate to decide my course of action and without question be found out for who and what I was.

I went back to the front desk and told Alicia that I needed to leave, family emergency and all that, packed up my things and fled for my camper. It wouldn’t take any time at all to load it up and be on the road.

#ImpossibleDecisions #SASBDB #BDBRPG

[veiledtreasurebdbrp]

CLOSE CALLS

True to her word, Amari had helped me land a receptionist job at a clinic for our kind in the area. It was run by a male named Havers and apparently, he had been running it for a very long time. Recently, one of the females that had been working the front desk had taken time off to have a young. Once the young was born, she had decided that she did not want to return to work. So, a position opened up. It actually worked out perfectly for me. The position was only a couple days a week, so it gave me something to do with some of my time, all the while allowing me to work alongside my own kind… and listen to the whispers. I was desperate to hear anything that would lead me to believe there were others like me still left in the world.

As much as my mahmen wanted me to believe that there were none of us Chosen left. I just felt in my bones that there had to be. There had obviously been others that fell from the Sanctuary before the raid, and she couldn’t have been the only one to have escaped. I refused to believe that every last Chosen died in that raid. One thing I had learned was that the Black Dagger Brotherhood was in the vicinity. I didn’t know where exactly, and that didn’t matter, just to know I was that close to the Brotherhood, was enough for me.

Caldwell was a place I had heard my mahmen and Alexandria talk about, when I wasn’t supposed to be listening. It was how I ended up here. They used to talk about how it was where a lot had settled when moving to the New World. It wasn’t until after I started working at Havers’ clinic that I found out the King ran an Audience House in the city. Part of me wanted to seek out the Brotherhood. They were probably my best bet in finding others like me. But, part of me still worried that if I truly was the only one left, like my mahmen believed, would they just let me be? Or, would they want to sequester me somewhere safe and try to make me mate one of them to start the legacy all over again? I definitely didn’t want that. I may be of the Chosen, but I had lived too long on my own, and been brought up to be too independent to be thrust into a situation like that. So, for now I decided to just keep that idea in the back of my mind.

It was the middle of the night and so far my shift had been pretty uneventful, which was always a good thing at a medical clinic. I was about to take my mid-shift break for lunch when a couple of guys burst through the front door. Two of the guys pushed a gurney down the hall toward the emergency wing, while the other stopped at the desk. The problem was, the scent of the male on the gurney was too strong and it hit my sinuses like a brick wall. I’m not totally sure why I reacted the way I did, but I left my position at the desk and bolted down the corridor after him. I could hear the male calling after me from the front desk, but my feet just wouldn’t stop. The blood that I scented ran through my own veins. It was as if his blood was pulling me towards it, and at an alarming rate. I had no thought process, my feet just carried me down to the E.R. so fast that when I finally arrived there, I felt like a rabid dog after it’s prey. My head swung back and forth, looking for the male whose blood had me tied up in knots.

“Lohre!” They were piling him onto the corner bed. I’d never imagined a 6’ 4” male could look so small, but he did. He was lying there, completely immobile, and barely breathing. “What happened?!” I screamed at the males that brought him in. They were trying to calm me down, but for some reason I couldn’t see straight. Terror boiled my blood and I only wanted answers.

I didn’t even realize it, but I was muckled right a hold of Lohre’s left wrist as the two males that came in with him were trying to move me out of the way. They were not going to tear me away from him, though. There was something terribly wrong with him and I needed to know what it was just as much as I needed his blood in my veins. Blood! He needs blood. Without even thinking, I scored my wrist and shoved it at his mouth. “Drink! Please!” Tears were actually welling up in my eyes as I pleaded with him to take of my vein. That’s when it all hit me, what I was actually doing. I was offering up my own vein. The one thing that had been taboo to me all my life. I sucked in a massive breath in disbelief. What was I doing?! What if he actually got the taste of my blood in his mouth? What if he woke up and realized what I was? What if one of the people standing around me could scent my blood? Without another word, I pulled my wrist back, wrapped it with some gauze lying on the table next to the bed and shot out of the room, just as quickly as I came into it.

#CloseCalls #SaintsNSinners #SASBDB #BDBRP

[veiledtreasurebdbrp]

LENDING A HELPING HAND w/@PretyGrlAmari

Treasure: It had been a few weeks since I had ventured out to the club and I was already becoming weak, again. I was going to have to do feedings every few weeks for a bit, until I make up for all the time I had lost in the move here. So, I had called up Amari and asked her if she could schedule me in with Lohre a little sooner. She was happy to and offered to meet up after, for coffee. I was thrilled! I had been a little nervous that I had pushed my luck too far with her at the club and she would no longer be interested in a friendship. My first female friend in Caldwell. I really needed one! This town was beginning to get a little lonely.

***

Sitting at the bar, I awaited my turn with Lohre. My turn with Lohre… how odd that sentence sounded. Sure, I had had a number of males that fed me over the years, that were nothing more than just that, feedings, and here Lohre was, a male that got paid for those precise services, yet it seemed strange to think of it as my turn with him. He was… something different, I just couldn’t put my finger on what was different.

Just as he was the last time, Lohre had been a perfect gentleman during our meeting. Although, he had begun to ask me some personal questions that I wasn’t interested in answering. I think he was just trying to make conversation, make the whole thing a little less... transactional. But, he took my hint quickly and apologized for prying.

Once I was done, I sent a quick text to Amari and headed off to the bar to wait.

Amari:

(Sitting behind the desk lost in the reviewing the invoices for liquor, my phone pinged and I actually jumped, started by the silly little noise. I checked and it was from Treasure. It had been a while since she had been back and I had thought I might not see her again.  I was relieved when he had contacted me and asked to have a feeding scheduled and I was more than happy to help her out.  She was done and we had planned to meet up for a drink afterwards to catch up.  I picked up the keys and locked the office door behind me and headed out to the bar finding her sitting at a table looking very content.)  Hi Treasure.  Feeling a bit better now?

Treasure: The place was packed tonight and I was lucky to have had some guy offer up his barstool to let me sit. ‘Who said chivalry was dead?’ I thought to myself for all of 2 seconds before the creatin started grinding on the side of my leg. I hauled off and slapped him a good one. Unfortunately, this was not a male to be messed with.

He got right up in my face and began to scream at me, “Do you have any idea who I am, you slut?!”

“Not a clue, but I’m guessing you’re going to tell me.” The words barely fell from my lips before Lohre was at my side, and at 6 foot 4 inches, he towered over the idiot that thought that by my accepting his invitation to sit on that barstool gave him some sort-of ownership rights over me. I was really going to have to remember that I wasn’t in some hick town in Colorado, anymore.

“Go ahead and call her a slut… One. More. Time.” There was a distinct growl that came out of Lohre’s throat as ‘time’ rolled off his tongue and I swear I saw the other guy shrink about four inches. Not only that, but something visceral stirred inside me. I don’t fully know how to explain it, but something tugged at my soul.

Reaching up, I placed my hand on Lohre’s arm. Wow! The tension in his bicep was intense. “Lohre, it’s fine. He was just leaving, anyway.” I turned and glared at my would-be assailant. “Isn’t that right?” As much as I appreciated the assist, I did know how to take care of myself.

The guy grabbed his drink and muttered, “Fuck you both! I’ve got better things to do with my time,” his eyes raked up and down my body, “than you.”

I swear, I thought Lohre was going to pick him up by his throat right then and there, but I squeezed his arm and the distraction gave the kid just enough time to turn and storm away.

“You don’t deserve to be spoken to like that.” The aggression in Lohre’s voice was clear, and I was sure that at some point down the road, that kid was going to get what was coming to him. It just wasn’t going to be tonight.

“I appreciate that, Lohre, and I thank you. But, I’m fine. No harm done.” I saw Amari walking up behind him and waved my hand.

He took a quick look over his shoulder and turned back to me. Placing his hand on my wrist, he made a quick promise to me, “I will be watching over you, and if that guy comes within twenty feet of you again, he’ll be in for a shitstorm of pain.”

“I’m sure he won’t, but thank you.” I offered up a soft smile, thankful for his thoughtfulness.

He smiled slightly back and walked off, just in time for Amari to join me. I let out a soft sigh and smiled. “So much better, thank you! I can’t tell you how appreciative I am for you fitting me in, again, tonight! I wasn’t expecting to need more so quick, but I guess I waited a little too long after arriving in town.” I looked over my shoulder in the direction that Lohre had disappeared to. “I guess I may have to schedule a few out, for now, until I’m back to good. So, you want to stay here and have a few drinks, or should we head out for some coffee?”

Amari:  

(After the little incident I witnessed before walking up, I was not sure staying was the best option. Lohre was still lurking protectively and I surely hoped that male was not fancying Treasure more than what it was.  I did not believe she was looking for anything more than the requirement of feeding. She was a rare beauty and I warned him to keep it simple. I turned toward the young male who is lucky to still be in one piece to sins he was still watching Treasure too.) Why don’t we take my driver and find a cafe?  I have a craving for pie and really strong coffee.  I’ll be certain security makes sure we are not followed. (Thinking to myself that the male is who needs a lesson in being gentleman gets that lesson after we were gone regardless of what bloodline he was from.  No one disrespects my employees and most certainly not my friends.) Deal?

Treasure: There was a slight relief that washed over me when Amari mentioned going somewhere else. I thought I would have been up for anything, but I hadn’t realized how concerned I had been about staying until the words dropped from Amari’s lips and the relief settled in. On the one hand, I really liked the club. It was so different from the places I was used to going to, in Colorado. But, I could feel that little punk ass kid’s eyes still boring into me and that made me feel a little uncomfortable. My mahmen had taught me to stay away from males like him and to avoid any kind of attention. Drawing attention to myself was the worst thing I could possibly do. I was to always blend in. “Be a wallflower,” my mahmen used to always tell me.

Nodding once, I agreed, “Pie would definitely hit the spot, right now.” Not that sugar was the best thing for me right now, either. I was already slightly hopped up on Lohre’s blood. I was pretty sure he had a touch of aristocracy in his blood. It was sweeter than some of the other’s that I’d had in the past. It made me wonder what his story was.

I finished off my drink and stood up, “So, what’s Lorhe’s story, anyway?” As soon as I spoke the words, I realized how it sounded and quickly tried to correct myself, “I only mean that his blood is so sweet. He must have some aristocracy blood in there.” I didn’t want Amari to think I was interested in him, because I wasn’t. That would be crazy… crazy, stupid! I just didn’t want her to think he was crossing any lines. She was his boss, after all.

Amari:   (Wondering exactly why she would think that of his blood.  Could she someone she is pretending not to be? I’ve wondered that for a while now and this makes that feeling strong.) Lohre? I don’t know much about him outside of the club. He is a pretty private person.  But I suspect you are right.  And it’s ok if you are curious about him.   He is an attractive male isn’t he.  (Smiles at her as we head out to my car, the driver opens the door as we approach and we both slide inside.) As I was saying, he is an attractive male and I know he is a bit intrigued by you.   He has asked a few times if you would needing his services.  (Watching her reaction) But don’t fret, I won’t say anything to him about you asking about him unless you want me to. Anything else new?

Treasure: An attractive male? Well… yeah… But, I had been trained since birth to ignore such things, so I had been trying hard not to notice. However, the more Amari mentioned it, the more it crept back into my thoughts. The way he jumped in to protect me, how he had told me he’d be keeping an eye on me, and that guttural growl that erupted from his lips when he was telling that kid off. All hard things to ignore, even for me.

Amari made it all worse when she mentioned that she knew he was a bit intrigued by me and I could feel the heat burning up the back of my neck at her comment. I could only hope that the blush hadn’t reached my face. “I… uh… well, I was hoping to continue to use his services. He’s been such a gentleman.” Shit, Treasure! The words fell from my lips and I wanted to take them back. The last thing I needed was to get attached to a male, in any way, and something told me that the more I fed from Lohre, the more I would want to. At the same time, I couldn’t take back what I said. The desire to feed from him again was strong. “Please don’t tell him I was asking about him, though.” I added quickly. I definitely didn’t need him to know I had been asking about him.

This was all becoming a mountain out of a molehill. So, I changed the subject. “Things are going well. I finally have the camper set up for the summer. It’s not much, but it’s served me well for the whole trip.” I was hoping that by the end of the summer, I would have a more permanent place… That was, if I chose to stay. If, by the end of the summer, I was no closer to finding what I came here looking for, I would probably move on, which is why I’d decided to keep the camper. That was my plan, anyway. However, I was hoping that by the end of the summer I would have some kind of inkling that what I had been looking for, was in fact here, in Caldwell. “I was thinking about looking for a job, next. Any suggestions on that?”

Amari:

Her reaction was exactly what I expected.  I knew the signs so well.  The car stops at the coffee shop and I lets the subject change stand as we both get out of the car and head to the door.   “What type of job are you looking for?  I mean what experience do you have?  We don’t have any openings at the club now but I know of a few other places that you might be able to find something.” Taking a seat at an empty table waiting for her answer but somehow expecting her to say no. I wonder if I could find something for her if she doesn’t at the club.  I will have to see if my hunch about her never working is right.

Treasure: Stepping out of the car, I followed Amari into the coffee shop. Experience? The only work I had ever done was Medical Transcriptionist work… and it had been boring as hell! But, my mahmen wouldn’t allow me to work outside the home, so that was what we had settled on. Alexandria had gotten me the job through a friend of hers. I worked for the local hospital, running through hours and hours of dictation a night. It wasn’t a job I was looking to do again. But, if I didn’t use my skills as a transcriptionist, what was I going to do? What was I qualified to do?

As we reached an empty table, I slipped into the seat across from her. “When I was back home, I had a Medical Transcriptionist job. I worked for the local hospital. But, I really don’t want to do that again!” I shook my head for emphasis, as I spoke. “Let’s just say that watching paint dry would have been ten times more fun.” A puzzled look washed over my features. “But, aside from that, I’m not sure I’m qualified for much else.”

“Actually, I’d like some hot chocolate, please.” I requested of the waitress, when she came by for our order.

What was I looking for? It’s not like I needed the money. I just hated to have so much free time on my hands. Also, I figured that if I acquired a job, I would be around more people, and more people meant more opportunity to find those like me… especially if those people were people of my race. “I’d like to find something that gives me a chance to meet… “ I lowered my voice an octave, “more people like us.”

Amari:

After ordering a second hot chocolate, I watched her closely as she leaned in and also whispered. I nodded and thought for a moment about what would be a good place for her.  “Ya know, there are a couple of clinics that you might be able to help at.  Maybe a clerical job since you have some knowledge of transcription. I could reach out to a few contacts and see if anyone is looking or in need of someone?  If you would like?”

The waitresses showed up with the drinks and the smell made my mouth water.  It had been a while since I had been to the shop and realized I had actually missed it.   I ordered a sampler plate of pastries before she walked away and smiled at Treasure.  “I thought we needed a bit more sugar on top of the cocoa.  Can’t come here without splurging.  But seriously, do you want me to inquire?”

Treasure: As I watched the plate of pastries slide across the table in front of us, I groaned internally. The effects of Lorhe’s blood was still humming through my veins and sugar was only going to exacerbate that. But, it all smelled so good. I knew I was going to hate myself in about twenty minutes, once the sugar rush kicked in, but I reached out and grabbed half of a bear claw and began picking pieces off and stuffing them in my mouth.

“As long as it’s not transcription work again, I guess it would be okay.” I really wasn’t interested in working in a medical environment again, but I didn’t have much experience elsewhere, so… beggars can’t be choosey and all that. Besides, working in a clinic, I would be assured to be working around people of my own race.

Our race didn’t go to real hospitals. We had our own medical clinics. There were too many things different in our physical makeup from humans. If we ended up in a human medical facility, almost any test run would give away our physical abnormalities. It was one of the first things my mahmen told me about the human world.

“So, yeah… if you could put some feelers out for me, I would be so grateful!” I washed my bear claw down with the last of my hot chocolate. “Anyway, enough about all my stuff. How’s things with you?”

Amari: “I’ll do some checking for you. Give me a week or so on it.  As for me, things are good. Trez’s return has changed things up at the club.” I take a drink of my cocoa thinking about how I feel when he is around and I’m pretty sure I blush.  “It has actually made the job easier.  I’m not even sure I’m really needed anymore but he seems to be making things for me to do.” Smiles over at her. “I believe he likes having me around and I know I like him being back.  There is just so much ..”  pauses for a moment “well, unsaid things I things I guess you could say.”

Sitting back in my chair my thoughts stay on Trez.  Wondering what is truly going on.  “Anyway, it’s all good.   He said we are having a meeting very soon which I’m very curious about.   I can’t quite figure out what he is up to.”

Treasure:

“That would be great!” I was so appreciative of everything Amari had done for me. First she set me up with Lohre, as a means to feed from. Now, she was helping me with my job search. I honestly don’t know where I would be if I hadn’t run into her at that laundromat a little over a month ago. “If I haven’t said it yet, thank you for everything you’ve done for me. You’ve been so incredibly helpful.”

An unstoppable grin crossed my features as I heard her talk about Trez. She was far from able to hide that blush on her face as she spoke about him. Arching a slender brow, I questioned her, “Unsaid things?” It was obvious from the look on her face, there was more to their boss/employee relationship than met the eye. I wondered if there had been history there, or if this was something new for her.

All my life, I had been the one that wasn’t allowed to indulge in romantic relationships with the males of our species, and I had never even had a friend that had been close enough for me to ‘live vicariously through,’ as they say. Due to my status as the last of the Chosen, I was not allowed to have a mate, in fear that they would figure out who and what I was. On top of that, Alexandria and my mahmen never had mates, either. So, I never really had a chance to experience myself, or anyone else go through that initial attraction, that sensation of falling in love. I had read all about it in books. But, the experience of it all was somewhat lost on me. It was interesting to see the light in Amari’s eyes as she spoke of Trez. It seemed so fascinating and exciting. I wanted to take it all in. “How long have you known Trez?”

Amari: “Honestly, only since I came back here a little over a year ago to help at the club.  We met when I got here and then he left and has been in and out since that time.” I sit back thinking of the crazy off and on feelings for him. “I’ll tell you a little secret. He fascinated me.  I know I shouldn’t think of him the way I do since he is kinda my boss, but there is this chemistry between us that makes my skin tingle every time we are together.” I sigh and play with my cup as I continue.  “Or, I’m completely wrong and I am just imagining it all.  I mean, every now and then I think he is interested but he never acts on it so..  I’m probably just wishing.  

But anyway, enough of that.  I will see what I can do to help you out.  Anything else I can help you with?  

Treasure: The sparkle in Amari’s eyes spoke volumes, even before she started speaking about Trez. She was definitely interested in more than just a boss/employee relationship with him. So, was this what it was to be in love? In like? Infatuated? In lust? It was all so new and interesting to me. I wanted to ask more, but I didn’t want to sound like an idiot. Nor, did I want to sound like someone that had never experienced it all before. I was supposed to be just some mundane civilian, not a completely sheltered Chosen that had never been allowed even friendships with the males of our species.

I wanted to interject with, ‘What does your gut tell you?’ Because, books always said that your gut never steered you wrong in those circumstances… but, what if that was just one of the elaborations that books made and I looked like a complete ass saying it? I know that my gut had never steered me wrong, but I had never had to listen to it in matters of the heart. Something told me that matters of the heart had their own rules, ones that I was not privy to. So, I kept my mouth shut.

My napkin was just about tore up from all the fidgeting I’d been doing during my contemplations. As soon as I noticed, I flashed an embarrassed smile at Amari and pushed the folded up wad of paper out of my way. “Oh, no! You’ve done so much already! You know, if there’s ever anything I can do for you… please, don’t hesitate to ask. I feel like I’m leaning so much on you, right now. I don’t want you to feel like I’m abusing our new friendship.”

We sat around for a little while longer, discussing nothing incredibly important, just basic chit chat between friends. But, before long, Amari had to get back to the club for closing and I needed to get home. So, we said our goodbyes and promised to talk soon.

#LendingAHelpingHand #SASBDB #BDBRP

[veiledtreasurebdbrp]

LAUNDRY DAY (mentioning @OhSoRahvenous

It had been about a week since I had gone to the club and I was feeling completely refreshed from finally feeding, after months of going without. However, there was something still nagging at my brain. One word, or name as the case may be... Rahvenous. My run-in with the stunning male had not strayed far from thoughts since he walked away from me that night. The vision of his stare boring into me was etched into my brain… those beautiful blue eyes, and the sensation I so quickly dismissed that shot through me when I touched him. I felt it over and over again, like an echo. I wasn’t entirely sure why I couldn’t get this male out of my head. I had met males like him before, beautiful, sweet, courteous… yet, something about Rahvenous was different. With those other males, I never had the kinds of problems I was experiencing now. Never had I been so obsessed with the color of their eyes or the sound of their voices. Never had I gone home and days later, still been picking apart every second of the run-in with them, hoping I hadn’t made a total ass of myself. Never had I gone home wishing I had not laid eyes upon any one of them due to being afraid of the strong desire I was now feeling to know everything about this male.

I swiftly stood up from the table where I had been eating first meal, wondering what was on my list of things to do for the day. I needed something to keep me preoccupied. All this thinking was going to get me in trouble. I grabbed the dishes and made my way to the sink. Unfortunately, it didn’t take me long to wash them so, I was off to do other things. Fortunately, living in the big tin can I was living in, there was always something that needed to be done.

Looking at my list, one of the first things that caught my eye was to lubricate the slide out rails and to check and repair any seals on the doors and windows. It was thunderstorm season and I didn’t need a swimming pool in my kitchen. However, I needed to go to the hardware store for the lubricant for those rails. I had run out on my way out here and hadn’t bothered to pick any up since arriving. I also wanted to pick up a small barbecue grill.

Content with my list, I decided that while I was headed out to shop for my items, I might as well get some laundry done. So, I went through my pile of laundry and checked all the pockets, dropping change into my jar, tossing receipts I didn’t need anymore… until I came across a napkin from ZeroSum. Dropping the jacket I had been wearing that night on the floor and focusing solely on the folded up piece of paper in my hand. Rhavenous. I’m not quite sure how long I stood there looking at the napkin, once more reviewing every moment of that night. How was it possible that such a delicate thing could be so incredibly dangerous? It was that thought that forced me to rush to the bathroom and toss the paper into the trash, shuffling around some paper cups that were already in the trash so as to cover the napkin. That was that. It was done. Decision made. My one and only tie to the male, disposed of.

#LaundryDay #SASBDB

[veiledtreasurebdbrp]

FRIENDS? OR NOT? w/@PretyGrlAmari

Treasure: This night had so not gone as I had planned. I had expected to come to the nightclub, feed, spend a little time saying hello to Amari, then head home to sleep. That whole plan got thrown out the window before I even met Lohre, the male Amari had set me up with for the feeding. I had been at the bar no more than five minutes when the male I thought was Lohre walked up. Amari had given me a description of the male and this one fit it. However, he was not Lohre. He was a total stranger, and I, thinking he was the male I was meeting, walked up and tapped him on the shoulder. After that, I was captivated, unable to step away from the unfamiliar male. I knew I was way better off walking away, ignoring the undeniable pull I was feeling, but my feet wouldn’t budge. It was a very bad thing! I was a Chosen. One of the last ever born. 75 years ago, when the Sanctuary was invaded and attacked, my mahmen escaped to This Side. She was pregnant with me, making me the last of my kind. If I were to get involved with any male, and he were to feed from me, I would be found out, and if he turned out to be the wrong male, I would probably be tortured, or worse killed. It was for that reason that I had promised my mahmen, many years ago, to live a life of solitude, where males were concerned. They were for feeding only, and in some special cases, friendship, but never as a mate. Yet, the feelings this male was stirring up in me were far from friendship. I had always known that people experienced these types of feelings, I just never knew how intense they would be. I had always hoped I would never have them, and for 75 years, I hadn’t… until tonight.

Now that I was finished with my feeding, I was having an even harder time not searching the crowd for that male. It was almost as if the feeding intensified everything. As I walked back into the club, I took the very next hallway off the main room, hoping to find escape from these feelings that were rushing through my veins. Instantly, I was accosted by doormen. Apparently, this was the wrong hallway to be stumbling down. I guess I missed the “Employees Only” sign on the wall.

Amari:  Walking around the corner from my office, I see one of the staff, Smith, dragging a blonde by the arm towards the front, at first I didn’t recognize her, but then I did.  It was Treasure.   I had been watching on the security camera for her to come out of the private room i had set up for her, but I must have missed her when I had to go up to the bar to have a little talk with one of the regulars about his behavior and how we treat my bartenders.  I quickly call out to my guard as I work my way to them. “Smith, what are you doing?  She is my guest tonight.”  Treasure’s face seemed to ease as she saw me approach and Smith pipes up to say she was where she should not have been.  “Don’t worry about it Smith, I’m sure she just made a wrong turn.  This is her first time here.”  Taking Treasure’s arm and pulling her away from him.  “Go back and watch for real troublemakers.”  

Turning to her a smile on my face.  “Sorry about that Treasure.  Smith is one of my best guards but sometimes he is a little too intense.” Noticing her looking around. “Did everything go ok?    Feeling better?  I’m assuming Lohre was acceptable?”  Let’s get a drink and you can tell me how it went and what’s on your mind.  Sound ok?”

Treasure: The doorman that grabbed at my arm began to escort me back to the club and off in the distance I caught a glimpse of the male I had met earlier in the night. Rahvenous. Dearest Scribe, ravenous was right, and at the moment every cell in my body was screaming for me to go back out in the club and see him, talk to him one more time. At the same time, I could practically hear my mahmen chastise me for allowing myself to feel what I was. I suddenly began to understand the whole idea of a devil on one shoulder and an angel on the other.

I was abruptly shaken from my thoughts as I heard Amari’s voice coming from behind, and I turned my head to see her rushing down the hallway toward us. A wave of relief washed over me as I realized, this was my escape. Visiting with Amari would take my mind off the whole ordeal.

Once Smith was on his way back to the club, I turned back to Amari and gently shook my head, “It’s fine. I’m fine.” Not totally true, but I was hoping the more I said it, the more true it would become. “Lohre? Oh, Lohre was good… I mean…” I paused as I realized how wrong that sounded. “I mean, yes, he was acceptable.” My eyes knitted together as I thought about the word ‘acceptable.’ That didn’t quite sound right either, but… “I feel so much better now! It had been too long. But, now that I know where to come, that shouldn’t happen again.” I turned my body so I couldn’t see the club. “So, this is where you work? It’s a little loud, isn’t it?”

Amari:

“Yes, it can be.   I guess I have just gotten used to the noise.  I don’t even notice it anymore.” Laughing as I notice she keeps looking around. Like she is looking for someone or something. “Hey, what’s going on?  Did someone bother you?” Glancing around I don’t see anyone staring at her which is crazy as she is a beautiful female.  The men should be drooling. The look in her eyes tells me something happened.  “Spill.  It’s written on your face.  Something happened.  What? Who do I need to take out?”

Treasure: I could feel the flush reach my cheeks as Amari asked about what happened, and I tried my best not to glance toward, Rhavenous… failing miserably. Turning back to Amari and shaking my head, “I… uh, it was nothing. I mean, no one bothered me. I just… well, I met a male at the bar, and with the feeding… “ I waved my hand in the air, assuming she would understand the implications of what I was talking about, as the heat of my embarrassment seared up my neck.

Swallowing, I tried to change the subject. “So, can you show me your office?” Hoping to get away from the hallway’s entrance to the club. I needed to get further away from that male. It was as if I could sense his presence all around me, which was kind-of like sensing when someone was watching you from behind, only multiply that by about one hundred! I couldn’t help the pleading look on my face as I shot Amari a look.

Amari:

Nodding knowing what she was feeling.  “A male, huh.  Let’s go to my office.”  Grabbing her arm and pulling her towards the back.  “Well, if you see him, point him out and I will tell you what I know about him if I do.  There are a lot of males that I know have a reputation you want nothing to do with.  As long as he wasn’t one of those we are good.”  Nudging her side trying to make her smile as she seemed way more affected than she wanted me to know.  “I’m sure he is one of the good males. Maybe even an extremely important one.  We do have a few of those that frequent here.”  

Treasure: Following Amari back to her office, “Actually…” I raised my hand to over my shoulder at the club behind us, before thinking better of it. The last thing I needed was for Rahvenous to look over, just as Amari was poking her head out of the hallway to get a glance at him. “He seemed like a nice male.” A soft smile graced my lips as Amari nudged me and the memory of the male and mine conversation shuffled through my thoughts.

Then one word almost stopped me in my tracks… Important. Not just important, she said, ‘extremely important.’ How important were these males, I wondered? Important enough to know of the Brotherhood, to know of my sisters, or were they just members of the Glymera? Hope began to bleed through all other thoughts and I couldn’t stop myself from asking, “Important? What do you mean by important?” I tried to make the inquisition sound more like curiosity, but I was suddenly captivated by the idea that I might have just found my family.

Amari:

Realizing I probably shouldn’t have said that, I quickly backtrack.  “Oh, nothing.  Just wealthy males looking for a quiet drinking place where they Don’t have to worry about anyone bothering them.   We do have excellent security and the VIP section is secured.  Maybe next time you come in, I’ll see if I can get you in if it isn’t too busy.” Glancing back at her and noticing her expression.  “Something else on your mind?”

Treasure: I tried to hide it, but I was sure the disappointment was evident on my features. I was so sure that I would find something here in Caldwell to point me to my sisters. The stories I had heard sounded so real. Stories that told of other Chosen actually living here, with the Brotherhood. Then again, maybe they were just that, stories. I wasn’t ready to give up just yet, though. I had traveled over 2,000 miles based on a hope that the stories had some bit of truth to them, and until I heard for certain that they were wrong. I wasn’t going to stop my search.

“Huh?” I quickly scan back to Amari. “I’m sorry. I must seem like a total flake to you, always seeming so disoriented.” Choosing my next words carefully, “I just haven’t yet been able to find any hint of my family. I was hoping that the…” This would be a test. Her reaction to this next part might be an answer for me. I quieted my voice, “Brotherhood might be able to help me, but I haven’t seen any hint of them being here, either, despite rumors to the contrary.” If the Brotherhood were here, she just might know about it, being a manager at such a popular place in town. Then again, she, like me, has only been in town a short time so she may know only what I’ve heard. But, it was a chance.

Amari:

Her comment almost floored me, looking around I grab her and and head to my office. “I think we should continue this talk in private.”  Once we are inside and the door shut.  “Ok, fess up. There is something more than you are telling me.  No one looks for the Brotherhood without an agenda.” I grab a bottle of whiskey and pour two glasses handing her one and taking a seat behind the desk.  “Start talking.”

Treasure: The look on Amari’s face and the fact that she muckled a hold of my arm and practically dragged me to a side office gave me hope that I might actually be on the right track. Excitement pumped so hard through my veins as I thought of the possibilities of actually finding family, sisters... more like me, that I didn’t realize I wasn’t containing my enthusiasm. By the time that fact hit me, Amari was standing in front of me, wide-eyed, waiting for a response to her question. Crap! What to tell her? I had been bending the truth so far, I was afraid it was going to break, and someone would figure out what I was. Although, I was so tired of lying, and the idea that the lying just might be over with soon, made it even harder to come up with one more. But, I wasn’t there yet, so… I needed to pull another one out of my hat. “It’s just that I found out recently, after my mahmen passed, that I may have ties to…” I paused. What would sound plausible? A member of the Glymera’s princeps? What if she led me in the direction of the Glymera here? That wouldn’t help me in any way, and might out me as a fraud. “Well, some very important members of society.” I waited impatiently, gauging Amari’s interest. I couldn’t allow this to become an issue. I couldn’t have people’s eyes on me. However, I might have pushed my luck already with her. I could tell that she knew I wasn’t being completely honest with her. I don’t think she’d blame me, if she knew the truth, though. She seemed really sweet, which made it that much harder to lie to her. But, this was about survival, and I wanted very much to survive.

Amari:

It was obvious from her body language, she wasn’t being honest with me, at least not completely.  There was more to it.  I could feel it in my gut.  “Treasure, I’m going to be up front with you.  I do not play games with anyone.  If you have a” makes quotes with my fingers as I said the next word “tie to some important around here you need to admit it. If you are running or looking for protection from someone, I can make some contacts and see if someone can help you out.  #Trez has a lot of connections and he would do anything I ask of him.”  Sitting back and taking a drink watching her for a few moments, the silence almost eerie. My thoughts wandering wondering if she was here looking for them for not so positive reasons and maybe I have already said too much. But I just can’t believe that my intuition was wrong.  She seems too pure to evil.  “Look, I thought you knew you could trust me.  It appears maybe I should be leery of trusting you? Either you come clean with me, or” picking up my cell “I send a text and you will be removed immediately.  The ball is in your court.” Glaring at her as I wave my cell at her.

Treasure: As much as I really wanted to trust her, and felt that maybe I could, I had actually only just met her, and if I told the wrong person I was the last of the Chosen it would be a matter of life or death for me, and I just wasn’t in a position to cross that line. Maybe, if I had a chance to get to know her better? Had a little more time? “You’re right. I haven’t been completely honest with you and for that, I’m sorry. But, there are people’s lives on the line here, and as much as I really want to trust you, we only just met the other day. I believe you are a good person, and I was honestly hoping you might be my first friend in Caldwell, but there are certain things about myself and my past that I am just not willing to talk about with someone I have only known for a couple of days.” I paused and walked to the door. “I’m sorry if I put you on the spot tonight. I was just so hopeful when you mentioned important people, that I got caught up. It is true that I had heard my family might be here, in Caldwell, and like I said, they are important people.” Twisting the doorknob open, I stopped in the doorway. “Anyway, It has been nice meeting you. You don’t have to call security or anything. I will let myself out.” Turning, I walked into the hallway to find my way out.

Amari:

Watching her walk away was not what I expected to happen. And, that’s not what was going to happen. I quickly follow her, gently grabbing her arm and turning her to me. “Look Treasure, You’re right, you really don’t know me. But if there is anyone in this crazy ass town you can trust. It’s me. I know what it’s like to have secrets. And I know what it’s like to be scared. But there is obviously something going on here that you need a friend for. So let me be that friend. Let me be the one to help you through whatever this is. Because Scribe knows I don’t have any other girlfriends and I could sure as hell use one.”  Her expression seems torn and I don’t know why I am overwhelmed with such a desire to help this female, but I am.  There is something about her.  “As you said, we don’t really know each other very well. So you sharing your secrets, would be like me sharing mine. You’re looking for something here. And I very possibly have the information to help you find that. But again, those type of things you just don’t share with strangers. So, If you want me to open up to you, you have to open up to me.” I finally let go of her arm, hoping she doesn’t bolt.  “What do you say? Take a chance? Or walk away from your best shot at finding what you want?”

Treasure: Stopping, I look down at my arm, her fingers muckled around it, then back up at her. Quietly, I listen to everything she has to say. “I’m not sure you’re understanding my point… Life or death.” I pause to let that one statement sink in. “My secrets cannot be so easily given up. Trust needs to come first, not blind faith. Someone’s life could become a horrible, tortured life if I trust the wrong person, and that’s the best case scenario. The worst case would be a grisly death. So, before I ever share my secrets, I am going to be damn sure I can trust the person I am talking to. I’m sorry if that comes across sounding harsh, but it’s just the way it has to be.” I turned toward the door to the outside, thinking about just walking away again, but stopped. Facing Amari one more time, I continued, “I meant it when I said I was hoping you would be my first friend here, in Caldwell. You’re just going to have to accept that I may never tell you my secrets. As it stands now, the only people that have ever known my secrets were my mother and my aunt, and they are now both dead.” I swallowed the lump in my throat down. Having to say those words aloud still hurt. “I’ve never told anyone else. So, maybe that will give you an idea as to how guarded my secrets are.” I watched the expressions move across her features. It wasn’t clear as to what she was thinking. She was definitely a hard person to read.

Amari:

Understanding her reasons completely I take a moment to think. The pain in her eyes at the mention of her family who are now gone, makes my heart ache for her loss.   I have met many different types of people through the past few years working in the different environments of our secret world. In all that time, no one has ever made me want to reach out to them anymore than this female standing in front of me now. Maybe I share the same loneliness she does but just for different reasons.  “Treasure, I won’t push you any more for those secrets but trusting is a two-way street.  I don’t tend to trust many people either. I have learned that most people have an agenda. I will protect with my life the people I hold dear AND all of their secrets including the ones bestowed upon me by my presence here.” Taking a deep breath “I really wanted you to be my first real friend here too, I still do.  And I believe, that you know somewhere inside of you that you can trust me. You wouldn’t have come this far if you didn’t. So????

Treasure: Nodding, I responded, “I fully understand that trusting is a two-way street, which is why I have not asked a second time about the important people you speak of. When and if you decide to tell me, it’s obvious now that it would only happen after you trust me. I get that and actually, I am not going to ask you to trust me. I know that for people like us, trust is a long way off. I hope we can get to that point someday, because I see you as a really good person, one I could become friends with. So, my suggestion is this, let’s walk away from this subject now, no more questions about it. If we are to be friends, that will happen, but let’s let go of the pressures of what we each know.” She was right, I did trust her, to a point… it just wasn’t with my life, and who knew if I would ever get to that point. Either way, I was sincerely hoping to make a new friend here. “What do you say?”

Amari: Offering her my hand to shake.  “Deal.  No more pressure, no more talk of secrets.  Shall I set up the same arrangements for you again here?  I mean Lohre of course.  Just tell me when you want to set it up and then maybe you and I can go for coffee after that.   There is an all night shop just up the road from here and we could maybe start to work on that friendship?”  Smiling at her hoping she agrees.

Treasure: I was surprised by the sense of relief that washed over me. I hadn’t realized how much I was really hoping for acceptance here. Returning the smile, I raised my hand and shook her offered one. “Deal.” After thinking for a moment, I nodded. It would be good to make regular plans for feedings. I didn’t need to get to a point where I was having health issues again. “Could you set me up with a once a month appointment? And yes, please make that with Lohre. He was a perfect gentleman, and I need someone that is going to be good about keeping it professional.” Realizing that a month was a long way off, I continued. “Maybe, I could come by sometime before that though for that coffee?” Amari agreed and we said our goodbyes. For the first time in a really long time, I felt like I was going to have a new friend, which was awkward, exciting, and terrifying, all at the same time. Not to mention the thoughts rustling around in my head about Rahvenous! Dearest Virgin Scribe, Treasure! Stop those thoughts! I quickly made it to my car and started the drive back to the campgrounds. #FriendsOrNot? #SASDBD

[veiledtreasurebdbrp]

FIRST IMPRESSIONS w/@OhSoRahvenous

Rahv: *The music pounded through me as I polished off my second beer. The trainees had dragged me out here after learning I had never been “out on the town” before and I was twenty-five years old. No one knew about my past so I didn’t say a word as they said this was a must. Though, for the life of me, I couldn’t figure out why. There was nothing but dry humping on the dance floor, people selling drugs, blood, and sex in the back rooms. Why was it so important that I come here again? Oh, right… I was making friends and since they were my first ever, I was humoring them. I laughed as a joke was shared amongst our group of three but as I looked across the bar, I saw a female walking in that caught my eye. Virgin Scribe but she was gorgeous as she made her way inside. It seemed like she was looking for someone so no luck there. Not that I would ever speak to her anyway. I didn’t approach people. It just didn’t happen after my past. I trusted no one. Hell, I barely trusted the trainees that supposedly had my back in case anything happened. It would take time. I tipped the bottle back, getting the last drop, before standing* I’ll get the next round. *They both cheered as I walked up to the bar and motioned to the bartender for another round. Yeah, I didn’t mind this so bad but I definitely could have done without it. Must be my upbringing. But I would let the guys have their fun tonight. At least the music was decent, I thought as the bass vibrated through me, causing me to tap my fingers on the bar top to the beat*

Treasure: Growing up in the mountains of Colorado, I had been to my share of bars but, nothing like ZeroSum. There were no nightclubs there. You had to travel to the city to find those and due to my circumstances, the city was one place I avoided. So, when Amari said she worked at a nightclub, let’s just say I was pretty weary. But, she had seemed so nice, and I really did need the feed, which was the main reason I had agreed to come. It had been a couple months since I had arrived and that, on top of the time it had taken me to travel here from Colorado, I was way past due for a feeding.

Lohre was the name Amari had given me. She said he would find me at the bar, and from the description she gave of him, I would be hard pressed to miss him. As I sat at the bar, watching all the people around me, I hoped he would show up quickly. I didn’t want to be here any longer than I had to. Then I saw him, walking up to the bar and a small breath of air escaped my lungs. Oh Scribe! He was way more attractive than the ones my mother used to purchase for me. My palms began to sweat as I waited for him to approach but, he walked to the other end of the bar. I slipped through the crowd until I found him standing, face to the bar. I slowly reached out and tapped him on the shoulder, and speaking quite loud in order to make sure he heard me over the music, “Lohre?!”

Rahv: *My head was lost in my own thoughts about the training program and the whole making my first ever friends, god how juvenile was /that/ thought?, when I felt a hand tap me on the shoulder. My skin crawled since the person came from behind me and I whipped around, body jerking as if I was about to jump out of my skin. My eyes must have been crazy at first but I managed to get everything under control before I did serious damage when I saw who it was. It was the female I noticed walking in. The one meeting someone. And that thought was only solidified when she called me another male’s name. I clenched my jaw to keep the memories at bay that threatened to break loose. I did NOT need an episode here of all places. Nope. Stay in my nightmares, mother fucker. You don’t get to breach into my time with the guys. The family I was hoping I was building. Once I was back under control, which took a lot of effort, I looked down at @Treasure_BDBRW and shook my head.* That’s not my name. Sorry, ma’am. I’m not your date. *I said, feeling oddly let down that I wasn’t. Had no idea where /that/ thought came from since I had never once been interested in anyone, male or female. So where in the hell did I start coming off like someone who was jealous? I was unfamiliar with the sensation so I pushed it aside as I took in her features. Hair that looked so soft I wanted to bury my hand and face in it. Eyes that threatened to drown me in them. Lips that begged for me to… And NOPE. Stopping that freight train before it goes anywhere. Great, you’re staring, Rahv. Good one. I nodded to the bartender as he put up a couple of drinks up on the bar before turning back to @Treasure_BDBRW* But I’m sure he’ll find you if he’s here.

Treasure: The male whipped around so fast and the look on his face was almost that of fear. I hadn’t meant to startle him. I guess I should have thought twice before approaching someone from behind. I was so caught off guard with his response that it took me a minute before I started to try to apologize, “I’m so… “ but he jumped in with some comment about not being my date. I shook my head, without thinking, “Oh, he’s not my date.” But, I stopped there. I didn’t want to have to get into who the male I was meeting was and exactly how he wasn’t my date. Not to mention this male had me completely off balance. It was everything about him. Not only was he amazing to look at, there was something about the sound of his voice, the way he held himself, the hidden tenderness to his tone and the way I felt somehow strangely connected to him... Add to all that the way his gaze raked over my features. I felt as if the temperature of the building just went up ten degrees.

Noticing the drinks he quickly grabbed for, I cleared my throat and extended my hand, not willing to let this male walk away just yet. “Hi. My name is Treasure.” Dearest Scribe, I didn’t know how to do this. I didn’t know why I was doing this. I was hoping I wasn’t looking like a desperate fool but, I was so drawn to this male. I knew if he walked away at this moment, I may never see him again and every piece of my being couldn’t handle that... Then there was the other part of me, the one that wished I could move my feet from where they were firmly planted in the ground and run far away from this male. I wasn’t allowed to feel this way. It was dangerous to feel this way. This must be the feeling my mahmen always warned me about. The feeling that could end up with me dead, or worse, captured and tortured. Shit! I could feel my heart slamming against my chest walls as I waited for him to release me somehow.

Rahv: *It must be the bass thumping through the room but this female’s heart sounded like it was going a mile a minute. I mean, I wasn’t a small guy by any definition but I wasn’t the biggest one out there either. So, I couldn’t help but wonder what about me made her so nervous. Then again, I no longer had all my scars after the transition. From the bites, the scratches, the… I pushed those thoughts away as I grabbed for the drinks the bartender set up on the bar but was interrupted when @Treasure_BDBRW held out her hand to me. I blinked a couple of times, taking a second to register her name. Holy fuck did it fit her. She really did look like a treasure, one that was supposed to be kept away from prying eyes and protected. This city was a dangerous place and here she was walking around… Alone. I just shook off the thoughts as I reached forward and took her hand gently into mine, giving it a gentle shake. I had to clench my jaw tightly shut as I felt what must have been electricity from the touch. What the actual hell was going on here? Walk away, Rahv… I said internally to myself as I got my body back under control as a strange wave went straight between my legs, making my jeans tighter and more uncomfortable. Walk away.*

*Did I? Hell no. I ignored that tiny voice in my head and just waved the other trainees over to get their own damn drinks that I just bought* Do you want anything? I’ll add it to my tab. *Wow, that sounded intelligent. Go ahead and make her think you’re getting her drunk. Yeah, I was definitely new to this whole scenario. I waited for the guys to come over and give me a knowing smirk before they walked back to the table with their drinks. My eyes rolled at their antics as I picked up the cold beer bottle and tipped it up to my lips before I realized, I hadn’t given @Treasure_BDBRW my name in return* I’m Rahvenous. *And I /just/ figured out how corny my name was. Thank you, druggie parents, for that name.*

Treasure: Some sort of shock rushed through me as our hands connected and my eyes shifted swiftly downward toward them. It took me a minute to remind myself to let go, and when I did, I slowly brought my hand to my side and returned my gaze to meet his. This was soooo not good! I could hear my mahmen’s words in my ears. ‘Males are for feeding and friendship /only/! Unfortunately for you, it is too dangerous for there to be anything else. In this world, if you are found out to be what you are, you could be killed or tortured. You must never let a male get too close. Promise this to me.’ I had promised, and I had every intention to keep that promise. If my mahmen could live a life of service, there was no reason I couldn’t live a life of solitude.

However now, looking at this male, I wanted everything my mahmen told me to be a lie. I wanted to not think about her looking down on me, watching this whole interaction. But, I knew she was. Imagining that, I took a small step back and settled myself on the stool behind me. Trying to erase the thoughts from my mind, I put my focus back on the male before me. “Huh? Oh... “ Nodding. “I’d love a Midouri Sour. Thank you.” I flashed a small smile in thanks.

As his friends came up and grabbed their drinks, I offered each a soft smile, wondering what the small nudges and winks were all about. Once they were gone, the male turned back to me and introduced himself. Rahvenous, a small giggle snort slipped out before my whole face turned a bright crimson flush. So on the nose with that name. In hopes he hadn’t heard that, I quickly tried to change the subject. “It’s nice to meet you.” As someone bumped into me while trying to catch the bartender’s attention, I scooted to the far end of my barstool and looked out to the crowd. “Is it always this crazy?”

Rahvenous: *I watched @Treasure_BDBRW out of the corner of my eye as she looked like she was trying to cover up a snort after I told her my name. I just gave a light shake of my head as I took another swig of my beer* Yeah, I know. Trust me. Wasn’t my choice at all. *A sigh escaped my lips as I heard the cat calls and whistles from the two guys I came here with and another roll of my eyes soon followed. My shoulders lifted in a casual shrug as I turned my back to the bar and looked out amongst the crowd* Usually, yes. This is the most popular place in town for these crowds. Though I didn’t picture someone of your stature coming out here. Normally it’s humans and vampires that want sex, drugs, or blood. Blood in the vampire case, obviously. *My gaze turned back to @Treasure_BDBRW to see a certain look on her face. One that told me, she didn’t know anything about this place* If I were you, I would stay out of the back room unless you’re looking for one of those three things.

*I couldn’t take my eyes off this female. There was just something… Alluring about here. It was as if she was calling to me and trying to draw me in. Which was dangerous territory since I didn’t let anyone close to me after what happened to me. Even the guys whooping and hollering at me from their booth only knew the basics. My name, my age, where I was from. That was it. I offered no details to anyone. I was sure Havers had told the Brotherhood about my issues since it would have been covered in the medical part but no one had approached me yet. And as much as I wanted to leave, knew I should leave this female alone, my body wouldn’t obey. I was glued to this seat as we were bumped aside by people trying to get to the bar.* So, you from Caldwell originally, Treasure? *I asked, trying to make small talk. Even if I was extremely bad at it*

Treasure: My blush deepened intensely as, much to my dismay, I realized he had in fact heard my little giggle. “I’m sorry. I didn’t mean any offense. I just… “ I stopped there. There was no way I was explaining to him why I really giggled. What was it about this one male? I had never, ever felt like this before. 75 years and you would have expected I’d experienced every emotion possible. There had been many nights I had thought about what if… but, it had never happened so, I assumed I was immune or something, it wasn’t going to happen to me.  Apparently, I was wrong in that assumption.

I listened quietly as he described all the ‘services’ the club had to offer, cringing internally as he mentioned the blood trade. How harshly would he judge me if he knew that was what I was here for, I wondered. Why did what he think about me matter so much? All these feelings were so new and so raw. I didn’t know how to handle them. So, I did the only thing I could think of and averted my eyes from him by taking a sip of my drink that had just been delivered by the bartender.

After a few moments of trying to collect myself, I finally responded, “No.” I shook my head. “I’m not from here. Just moved here from Colorado about a month ago. How about you? Are you from around here?”

Rahv: *I just shook off the apology. It wasn’t necessary. If I could laugh at my name, so could other people. It was just a name if anything. It’s not like it described me or some bullshit like that. I tipped my beer back, finishing off the alcoholic beverage before I listened to @Treasure_BDBRW speak. So she wasn’t from around here. That shocked me. Normally people stayed away from Caldwell because of the lessers that had seemed to try to take over. Killing civilians where they saw fit. As I motioned for another beer, I thought about where I came from. The dregs of the city. Living in a shitty one bedroom apartment that had holes in the wall and no heat in the winter. A makeshift blanket to cover me up. Not the best way but it made me appreciate everything I had more, for sure.* Come here with family, then? *I heard myself asking before I could stop myself. No, Rahv… Not good to get attached. Not good to try to get to know this female. She wasn’t even here for me anyways. She was here for another male. Her date… Wait she said it wasn’t a date* Sorry, didn’t mean to pry. Just be careful here, okay? Not safe for females to be out alone. Lessers are really bad in this area.

Yeah, I’m from here. Born and raised. *If you could call it raising. I basically raised myself until I got here, to the Brotherhood training program. Hell, that program saved my life or else I would be right back in that shit hole with my parents. I was going to learn how to fight. I was going to make a difference. I was going to be something other than the used garbage I was. The kid only good for a good gang bang once in awhile when my parents needed their fix.* This place is always busy. Doesn’t matter the night. Mostly because Vampires don’t really have what you call normal jobs. At least that’s what I hear. So a lot of them come here for drinks or blood if they aren’t mated. Hell, some mated couples come for a quickie in the back room. *I winced as that came out of my mouth* Sorry. You didn’t need to hear that. Just spilling things my buddies over there have told me. They’ve been here plenty of times.

*And now I made a total ass of myself to quite possibly the most beautiful female I ever would lay eyes on. Not that I was trying to get with her. That was a bad idea all around. No, just making really bad conversation.*

Treasure: As he questioned me about my family, I could feel my shoulders slump slightly. The visions of what my mahmem and Alexandria had been through still fresh in my mind. Lessers. Yeah… I knew about Lessers. If it weren’t for them, my mahmen and Alexandria would still be here. Lessers were the ones that murdered them in the parking lot of the grocery store. It was obvious by the amount of Lesser blood on the ground that they tried to fight back, probably the only thing that saved them from being accosted but, in the end it didn’t matter. They both went off to The Fade, right there on the pavement of the parking lot.

I blinked a couple of times before I pushed the images away and shook my head. “I actually came here looking for family. I heard that some of my family might have relocated here so, I thought I would come here and see if I could find them.” I smiled shyly as Rahvenous commented about not prying. “It’s okay. I don’t mind the questions.” Really? did that just come out of my mouth. Questions lead to more questions, which lead to getting more involved and getting to know someone which wouldn’t be a bad thing ‘cause friends and all but, when I looked into Rahvenous’ eyes, friendship was not the first thing on my mind. Dearest Virgin Scribe! Why put me through this? Why now? Haven’t I always done everything I said I would? Haven’t I always kept my promises? Why now are you trying to make it so hard on me? Why now, when my mahmen isn’t here to help guide me through? I don’t have her strength behind me! Is this some soft of a test?

I shifted the conversation by nodding. “Trust me, I may look like a meek little female but, I’ve lived somewhat of a survivalist’s life. I know how to take care of myself when it comes to Lessers.” It was true. Living in the mountains of Colorado, my mahmen and Alexandria taught me a lot about survival, living off the land and most of all, how to protect myself. It was incredibly important to my mahmen that if something happen to her, I know how to keep myself protected from those that might want to seek me out.

Cocking my head to the side slightly, I was surprised at the notion that most vampires here didn’t have normal jobs. “Really? That’s interesting. Back in Colorado, the vampires I knew did have jobs. Granted, they weren’t nine to fivers but, we had our own little community there. We rarely had to depend on the human world, aside from the normal things…” like a grocery store, “like utilities and things like that…” A small smile crossed my features at Rahvenous’ slight embarrassment of the topic. “As far as all that other stuff, I knew about the blood trade but, that’s about it. I guess the other stuff went on in the bigger cities. Or maybe I just wasn’t aware of it.” That was entirely possible. It wasn’t something of interest to me so, it was highly possible it went on right under my nose and I never saw it.

Rahvenous: Well most of the Glymera live here and they come from old money from the Old Country so I hear. *My shoulders lifted in another shrug as my eyes never left @Treasure_BDBRW. I didn’t know what it was but there was just something about her. Regal almost. She commanded respect and holy hell did I. As I listened to her tell me about how she lived before here, I could only nod my head in awe. You didn’t see women such as her live such lives. They were to be sheltered and protected. They ordered doggen around and had kids. That was it in our society. So the fact that she knew how to survive no matter what instead of being one of these damned damsel in distress types around here made her hot as fuck. Yes, dangerous territory. Very dangerous, Rahvenous. Stop now before you get even more involved.*

*I felt the air shift a bit and when I looked over my shoulder, I saw a male across the club zero in on @Treasure_BDBRW and start making his way over. Fuck. As much as I knew this was a good thing, and probably a sign, I didn’t want to stop talking to her. But I had to in case this male had any sort of feelings towards her. As I finished up my beer, I motioned for another one* Looks like your not date is here. I don’t want to cause an awkward situation so I’ll leave you to it. *I was so awkward and unable to know what to do with these situations. How did you end conversations like this? Oh well, I had done it. I wasn’t as polite as I should have been but I had no idea what I was doing. Sue me*

Treasure: The fact that Rahvenous mentioned that most of the Glymera lived here was incredibly promising to me. If a lot of them lived in this area, chances are the Brotherhood were here, too. The Glymera wouldn’t establish themselves in such large numbers without ensuring their own protection. And if the Brotherhood were here, that would mean my chances of finding more like myself were pretty good… that’s if there were more like me. I still wasn’t sure. Right now, it was all just whispers on the wind.

Suddenly, Rahvenous’ attention shifted and the look in his eyes turned cool. I knitted my brows together and followed his gaze out into the crowd. What I saw was another male approaching, eyes set on me. I swallowed hard, as I had all but forgotten why I had originally come to the club tonight. I wasn’t ready for this conversation to end but, we had about t-minus twenty seconds, tops, before the other male would be upon us. Crap! My mind shuffled as fast as it could trying to pay attention to Rahvenous’ words. But… but… Before I knew what I was doing, I reached out and gently touched his hand. An electric charge shot through me that I wasn’t ready for and it took me a moment to shake it off. I didn’t have time for whatever that was. So, when Rahvenous ended up turning back to me, I leaned in to him and spoke quickly. “Can I see you again?”

Rahvenous: -My eyebrow quirked as this female grabbed my hand. An electric current ran through me as her skin warmed mine on contact. This was a bad sign. Bad, BAD sign. I couldn't be with any female, let alone this one. This one was perfection and I couldn't tarnish her. That would be unforgivable. However, I found it impossible to move my hand away from her soft grip. Walk away, Rahv. I told myself as I stared into those eyes, feeling myself drowning in them yet not wanting to come up for oxygen. Just walk away… Before I could stop myself, I grabbed a napkin and asked the bartender for a pen. I scribbled my number down to the cell phone the brotherhood provided for me- Here. That's how you can reach me, if you want. -With that, I grabbed my beer and turned towards the table my friends sat around, mind still on the perfect, blonde female behind me as a male walked up to her-

Treasure: At first, everything seemed to be move in slow motion, as it seemed to take forever to get a response from Rahvenous. In the meantime, I was completely captivated by his bright blue stare. I could get lost in those eyes. Shit! Treasure, look away! You can’t do this! You shouldn’t have stopped him. You should’ve just let him walk away. Something inside wouldn’t let that happen, though. Something inside had willed my arm to reach out to him. Either way, it was too late. What’s done was done. As I took a quick look over his shoulder, the approaching male seemed to suddenly be moving in double-time and that’s when everything started to blur together. Before I knew it, Rhavenous had passed me a napkin with a number scribbled on it and then he was gone. I didn’t even get a chance to say a quick goodbye. I could feel the disappointment settle my shoulders as I watched him, back to, on his way to the booth his friends were at. I had forgotten about the other male for the moment, until he tapped me on the shoulder. “Treasure?” he questioned.

Taking a breath, I tore my eyes away from Rahvenous’ back, stuffed the napkin into my jacket and looked upon the male. “Lohre?”

He nodded.

I offered my hand to him. “Yes. Hi. I’m Treasure.”

We talked over a few details before he walked me toward the back rooms. As I slipped off the barstool, I shot a quick glance at the booth Rahvenous and his friends were at. Luckily, he wasn’t looking. For some reason, I didn’t want him to see me disappear into the back rooms with this male, just in case he thought it was for any reason other than a blood exchange. Even then, I wasn’t sure I wanted him to know that about me. Why did I care so much about what he thought about me?

Looking up, Lohre and I had arrived at a door to a private room. “Right this way.” He said as he held the door open.

I took another deep breath and stepped inside.

#FirstImpressions #SASBDB

[veiledtreasurebdbrp]

A CHANCE MEETING w/@PretyGrlAmari

Treasure: It had been a month since I arrived in Caldwell, and for the most part, I was all set up. The camper was fully stocked with everything I needed. I had gone out and purchased some summer things for the upcoming season. There were two things that I still needed to take care of. One, was the legal things. If I was going to stay in Caldwell, I was going to need to get new identification, plates for the camper and car, etc. However, seeing as I wasn’t sure I was staying, that could wait. What was top priority however, and getting more and more pertinent every single day, was finding a civilian to feed from. It wasn’t as if there were corner stores with signs out front, “Need To Feed? Inquire Inside”. It was a whole underground market and you had to know someone involved to find it. In Colorado it was easy. I grew up using the services. But here, I didn’t know a soul and it wasn’t like you could go up to any civilian and feed. Well, you could but, most of the time they wanted an exchange, tit for tat, you feed off me, I feed off you... I wasn’t able to do that. If anyone fed from me, they would know what I was, immediately. As much as I wanted to find others like me, that wasn’t the way. If knowledge of what I was, were to become known to just any civilian, I would be in grave danger. That’s why I had always used the service of paying someone to feed from. I fed from them, I paid them for the service, the reciprocation was the payment, there was no expectation of feeding from me when I was done. It was clean and easy. So, that had been what I had spent the past couple of weeks doing, trying to find an underground service for feedings. However, I hadn’t actually met any civilians yet, so that caused a problem. I had run into a few, seen them from afar, but my instincts had told me not to approach, or maybe it was just my mahmen whispering in my ear. Either way, I hadn’t introduced myself, hoping a better opportunity would present itself. However, now I was getting desperate, and that was not a good place to be.

An annoying beep sounded and woke me from my thoughts. Standing up, I grabbed at one of the baskets with wheels and dragged it over to the washing machine that sounded. As I began to pull the clothes out, I could feel the weakness in my muscles. Simple tasks had begun to make me weary and I was sure I was beginning to look weak to any onlookers. That was why I decided not to go to the same laundromat tonight. I needed to switch up my routine. The weaker I got, the more I needed to protect myself. So, I drove a few miles into the city and found a quiet, little, corner laundromat to do my dirty laundry in.

Amari:   Loading the baskets in my car, grumbling to myself that the only night I get off from #ZeroSum I end up doing laundry. Not a date, not a girls’ night or even just a night to go to the movies all by my lonesome and hide out in the back eating way too much popcorn and candy.  But NNNNOOOOOOO……. Here I am off to the corner laundromat.  Thank Scribe there is a actually a 24 hour one only a few blocks from the club so I don’t have to try and find one.   It is almost always completed empty and that is the way I like it.

Thinking as I make by way to the laundromat, I still haven’t met many people outside of the staff of the club and #Trez. The VIP room is so well secured, even I have only had the brief pleasure of seeing a couple of the Brothers.  The other females at the club don’t seem to keen on being chummy with me either. Seems my presence has ruffled a few of their feathers.  I’m only doing as I was asked and, if truth be told, I am actually loving this place.   Does hurt that Bossman lets me do as I please and, well, I don’t know what it is about him, but something intrigues me.  Maybe it’s what he is.  I don’t know but, i will figure that out sooner or later.  

Pulling in, I notice another vehicle already there and I see a blonde inside filling a washer with laundry.   Parking and walking in with my basket, she looks my way, a small smile and a very quiet “Hi” is mummerred at me. I reply a quick “Hello” and start to fill a washer not to far away.  It isn’t hard to tell she is the same as I, and from the looks of her, she needs a good meal.  I watch her from the corner of my eye wondering if I should engage conversation with her, but I hesitate.  If she is willing to talk, I will let her make that contact.  

Treasure: As I pulled my laundry out of the washer and began to move it to the dryer, the sound of the front door opening up startled me and I jumped slightly at the noise. How can I be so ignorant as to let my guard down for even one second?! I shifted my body so that my body was facing the door, and whoever it might be that was entering the laundromat. Back to the wall, Treasure, back to the wall. My hand moved to my purse, inside of which is my trusty Beretta Nano, as well as a dagger my mahmen gave to me years ago. Those were two of the weapons my mahmen made sure I knew how to use. The Beretta was perfect as a concealed weapon, and the dagger, well… that had its own uses.

The jump my heart had done seemed to settle once I got a good look at the newcomer. It was a somewhat petite brunette, with her own basket of laundry. I offered her a small smile and a soft, “Hi.” as she made her way to the washers. She responded with a brief, “Hello.” and continued with her own business. I could tell right away that she was just like me. Well, maybe not /just/ like me. But, she was definitely of my race.

Fumbling a bit with the change for the dryer, I ended up dropping half my roll of quarters on the floor. Hands shaking, I fell to my knees, trying to pick them all up before the female across the room notices how out-of-sorts I truly am. As she looked my way, I shot her a sheepish grin, “I’m such a clutz. My mahmen has always told me I’m all thumbs.” So totally not true, but she didn’t have to know that.

Amari: Watching her scramble trying to pick up the quarters, it’s obvious she is nervous. Something is off with her.  I lean down and pick up the wayward quarter that had stopped just shy of my feet and walk it over to her, smiling. “Mahmens know us better than anyone, huh?  Wrong, at least in my case. Mine is so clueless to the way of the world we live in now.  She still tries to test me like a young even though I am nowhere close to that.”  Handing her the quarter, trying to give her a reassuring smile that I’m no danger to her but seeing a bit of something in her eyes.  Maybe it was fear, maybe anxiety?  I don’t know.  Maybe she is hiding from someone or maybe she is a crazed female and I’m about to have a brawl on my hands. “I’m Amari.  Is everything alright?” Noticing her looking out the window like she is expecting someone else. “I’m alone. Are you expecting someone? I’m just here to do my laundry on my night off and not looking for trouble.” Backing away from her as she rises, wishing I had worked tonight.

Treasure: Memories of my own mahmen rushed through my thoughts as the female in front of me rambled on about her own. Everything was so much simpler back in Colorado. Alexandria, my mahmen, and I all lived in a quiet cabin in the woods in the Rocky Mountains. Once a month, or so, we would venture in to the nearest town to get things we couldn’t make, or hunt for, or supply for ourselves, things like toilet paper and feedings. Otherwise, we pretty much lived off the land. Alexandria was a survivalist, and she taught us well. I swiped at a singular tear that slid down my cheek before looking up and out the window. How I wished either of them would walk in that door and rescue me from the mess I had found myself in. Although, my mahmen was probably looking down at me from the Fade, at that very moment, completely ashamed and irate at me for coming to Caldwell, in the first place.

My gaze dropped to the coin in my hand as the female, Amari stepped back. Everything, from her posture to the tone in her voice, told me that she wasn’t a threat, and this was the closest I had come to any kind of a conversation with someone of my kind. So, I decided to take a chance. “Thank you.” My voice sounded distant, even to myself, and I shook my head, “I’m sorry. I’m not from around here… and I’ve heard so much about this place... Caldwell, I mean, and not much of it was good. I probably shouldn’t have come. Yet… “ I didn’t want to explain who I was seaking, that would give away too much. “Well, I lost my family recently, and… I just felt drawn here.” Why I kept talking, I wasn’t sure. It was probably nerves. I did that sometimes, when I first met new people, I would just blab on, and on. “I’m sorry, you didn’t really ask.” I turned back to the dryers and filled them with the change they needed.

Amari:

Completely understanding how she feels to be in a new place and, I’m guessing, all alone, since I’m pretty much in the same position. Although, not by choice.  Still not sure the reasons I was given to come here were the real reasons as #ZeroSum was doing just fine.  I mean #Trez himself was a bit of a mess, but the club was thriving. Bringing my thoughts back to her.

“Look. I’m new to Caldwell myself.  I was sent here to help out family friends or so I’ve been told. But I understand.  I’m all alone in a strange place.  So, if you need to talk, please go ahead.  I’ve got nowhere else to be tonight since it’s my night off from the club so go ahead and share.” Watching her as she turns back to look at me, unsure exactly what her expression means.  Not sure if it is relief or what that crosses her face. “Honestly, you can talk I me. I could use some friendly chit chat.  The females at the club dislike me so I haven’t really made any friends yet.”  Smiles at her.

Treasure: The need to trust someone was so strong and Amari intentions seemed authentic enough. Yet, there was no way I could tell her my story. Being who I was, or more to the point, what I was, I couldn’t just allow anyone to have that kind of information about me.

I was a Chosen, very possibly the last of my kind. My mahmen was pregnant with me when the Other Side was raided. Somehow, she made it out, to This Side. With the help of Alexandria, we stayed hidden for 75 years in the mountains in Colorado. My mahmen was sure we were the only survivors, but I had heard whispers of others like me here, in Caldwell. That was what had drawn me here. However, if anyone knew my real origin, I would be in grave danger. So, I couldn’t share my whole story with Amari. However, it would be nice to have a friend.

Shaking my head slightly, I began, “It’s just been a rough couple of months for me. I’ll be okay.” I paused and bit my lip. “But, do you happen to know of somewhere I can pay for a feeding? Somewhere I don’t have to trade? I’m… I had a bad experience once and I don’t like trading with someone I don’t know.” Okay, great way to start off a friendship, by lying. But, if I told her the truth, and she did turn out to be trustworthy, I could be putting her in danger, too.

Amari: Her question explained why she looked so tired.  The need to feed when ignored does not do our bodies well. It said a lot that she even opened up.  But, something tells me there still is more than what wants me to know.   I can’t blame her for that.  We all have a few secrets.  Walking back over to her leaning on the machine next to her, with a smile on my face.  “It might just be your lucky night. I happen to work at a little club not too far Into the city limits of Caldwell. It is a very elite club.  I’m sure I could if you wanted to come in, maybe tomorrow evening, definitely arrange a private feeding for you. No return feeding required, of course.”  Smiling as I noticed a change in her expression.  Almost a look of relief.   “The club tends to cater to a variety of clientele. If there are other needs you have, just so you know, this could also be arranged.  Just let me know what you require and when.”

Treasure: The most enormous sense of relief flooded through my veins as she explained the services at the club she worked at. It couldn’t be a more perfect set up for me. I could pay for the feeding, and there would be no expectations of a feeding in return. It was almost like the ones I received back home, except those weren’t done in a fancy nightclub. Yet, this way, it kinda seemed self-indulgent, a little bit wicked, and maybe even a little bit naughty. What would my mahmen think? ...she would think I was doing what I had to, to survive. Actually no, she would think, ‘What the hell are you doing in Caldwell, Treasure?’ But, what choice did I have? After both she and Alexandria went to the Fade, what was I supposed to do? I needed to find out if there were in fact more like me.

Turning toward Amari, I spoke up, “Could you do that for me? I would be eternally grateful for the assistance.” I was almost afraid to ask, but curiosity got the better of me. “What other kind of services are there?”

Amari:

I was a little surprised by her question but we all have needs.  “Well, if you are looking a job, we are always looking for dancing girls.  If you are looking for a sexual encounter of some sort, male or female, there are plenty of opportunities to partake of that in one of the private rooms.”  A feeling coming over me that she is looking for something or someone in particular. “Tell me what you are really looking for and I’ll tell you if I can help?”  Walking over to check on the washing machine hoping she opens up but getting no response. “You can trust me.  I know what it’s like to not want to lean on anyone, but frankly, having a friend in this crazy ass place would be kinda nice.  Wouldn’t it?”

Treasure: My eyes turned to saucers as Amari started to explain exactly what kind of ‘services’ were offered at the nightclub she worked for. Okay, the word ‘naughty’ didn’t even come close to the visions that were now bopping around in my mind. Well mahmen, I guess I’m not in Kansas anymore… Swallowing down a large lump in my throat, I replied, “I really only need a way to find a feeding. That’s all. I don’t need... any of that other stuff.” I paused for a minute before my curiosity got the better of me. “I don’t mean to be rude by asking, but is that other stuff common at nightclubs?” Growing up in a cabin in the mountains, I guess I really did miss a lot more than I ever realized. I felt badly now. My mahmen really would have my hide if she knew what I was learning about.

Amari: Realizing I may have just freaked her out a bit, I give her a friendly smile before speaking. “You could say the club I work at is a bit exclusive and some may, but not all.  And, we don’t offer some of the services to the masses.  Again, it’s very elite.  We have some …...exclusive clientele. it’s all very discreet.  No one know who comes and goes or why.”  Seeing her body relax some, hoping she isn’t changing her mind. It was so nice to find a female to speak openly with for a change. “So, how about you come to the club tomorrow night as my guest? You can check it out. I can kinda give you an idea of how things could work. And then you can decide if you want me to go ahead and look up a feeding for you?”

Treasure: The whole thing sounded very… elusive, and as much as I was put off by some of the offerings, the visions that were bubbling up in my mind were so intriguing, it was difficult to say, ‘No.’ to Amari’s offer. So, I didn’t. “...Okay.” I replied, quickly adding on, “I will definitely need a feeding. It’s been way too long.” I felt comfortable enough in trusting her to help me set that up. Sure, I didn’t know her very well at all, but my gut was telling me she was worth trusting, and I pretty much always followed my gut.

The dryer housing my clothes dingged and I walked over with a rolling basket to pull my clothes out. “Would it be difficult to set up a feeding on such short notice?” I hoped not. The aches in my body were getting to the point where they were really beginning to get in the way of doing normal activities… like simply pulling clothes out of a dryer, and folding them.

Amari: “No, not at all. I can make a quick call and have it set up for you tomorrow night.”  Pulls out my phone putting in #Trez’s number.  “You want just a one-sided feeding? Nothing else, right?” Types a text to #Trez to see who is free.  “And you are ok coming into the club? You can meet me there first and have a drink?”

Treasure: Rolling the cart over to a table, I began the process of folding my clothes. “Yes, just a one-sided feeding. No return feeding, and no extras.” I could feel the flush burn across my cheeks at the thought of wanting something else. “Coming to the club would be fine. I’m curious about the experience of a nightclub. We don’t have any where I come from. Just bars.” I smiled at the thought of the bar that I would go to once in a while, back home. It was called ‘Diggers.’ It was named after the many gold diggers that flocked to the area during the great Gold Rush Era. Surprisingly, there were quite a few vampires in the area, and they seemed to congregate there. It was one of the places I felt safe. I missed that feeling, now.

“Do you think I could I meet up with you after, though? I’m going to be a little nervous, and really only focused on getting that feeding done. I won’t be much company. But, after would be great.” I offered a sincere smile, hoping not to put Amari off by my suggestion of meeting after. She had been so sweet, and genuinely helpful tonight. It would be nice if I just made my first friend here, in Caldwell. “Would you have time to meet up then, or would you be working?”

Amari:

Smiling at her excited about the prospect of making a true friend when there are so few to make. “Yes, afterwards is good. Most of the time I’m just monitoring things and visiting with guests.  I’ll watch for you after the feeding and you can come to my office and have a drink in private to give you time to, well, regroup yourself so to say.  Scribe knows after that you surely don’t want to be surrounded by some of the males that would surely hit on you there.”  A reply comes in on my phone from #Trez and I quickly scan it.  “Looks like tomorrow is a good night, Bossman says we can do it at 11pm if that time works for you. Lohre is free and he is most appealing to the eyes. He is normally booked as the ladies find him most appealing and good luck keeping your desire to have bite you back in check once you get a look at him.” Laughs softly at her expression as my machine chimes done and I go to gather my things. “So, 11pm tomorrow?”

Treasure: I was thrilled that Amari hadn’t seemed to take offense my change in her plans, and looked forward to seeing her after I would have a chance to get some blood in my stomach. My mind would be so much less scattered than it was now.

Another blush creeped up my neck and into my face at her mention of males hitting on me. I knew I was a Chosen, a fact I shared with absolutely no one, and I knew Chosen were supposed to be these beautiful females, but I had grown up in a small town in the middle of the woods and saw myself more as somewhat of a redneck. Not that I hadn’t been hit on before, but I was never comfortable with it, when it happened. Most of the males I knew from back home, I had grown up with, so they saw me as their sister, or whatever. Back there, I had never gotten the stares or come ons that I had gotten from males since moving to Caldwell. It put me on edge, and I avoided them as much as I could. I guess I would have to deal with it, if I wanted to get a feeding in, though. I brushed a hair behind my ear in embarrassment at the thought, “I’m sure there are plenty of females less ordinary than me at a nightclub.” At least that was the hope.

Watching curiously as Amari checked her phone, I continued to finish up folding my clothes. 11pm. I nodded. That would be perfect, early enough where I could visit with Amari after, and still get some other things accomplished at home later. I could feel the heat burning off my cheeks at her comments about Lohre, and let an anxious chuckle slip past my lips. Flashing a soft smile, I replied, “I’m sure I will be able to control myself.” If she only knew. I honestly didn’t know what it would be like to have someone draw from my vein. Not once, in my whole existence had any male ever taken my vein. My mahmen had forbidden it, and for good reason. If someone were to taste my blood, they would know immediately I was a Chosen, and nothing good would come of that.

Before I packed up my folded laundry, I scribbled my number down on a piece of paper, and giving Amari one last smile, I passed it to her. “That sounds perfect. Here’s my number. If you send me a text with the details, I will see you tomorrow at 11pm.” Grabbing my bag full of clothes, I exited the laundromat, excited at the prospect of a new friend, as well as finally getting a chance to feed. #AChanceMeeting #SASBDB

[veiledtreasurebdbrp]

SETTING UP SHOP

Being so secluded from the world of mine own people, I had no ideas on how to find permanent shelter in Caldwell that would be suitable for me, considering my special needs. Thankfully, my mahmen had purchased an RV and had it retrofitted for the needs of our kind. She was a very paranoid female and bought it for the “just in case” that I swore would never come. I used to think she was a crazy fool to do some of the things she had, now I only wish I could thank her for them. She even managed to squirrel away some savings for me over the years, as well. It wasn’t a hugely substantial amount but, it was enough to get me by for quite some time, while I established a place in the world for myself. If she only knew that place was going to be in Caldwell, I am sure she would come back from The Fade with a vengeance.

I found a small campground outside the city that due to the time of year, it was practically empty. I asked for the quietest corner of the lot and from the looks of it, that’s what the office had given me. I was practically parked within the forest limits that skirted the grounds. It was also the lot farthest from the main road, which was fine with me. Too close and people driving by would see some of the oddities the RV was fitted with. I didn’t need any unwanted attention.

Once I had the camper set up, the next thing on my to-do list was to find a grocery store and a hardware store. A grocery store for obvious reasons but, a hardware store because, not only had my mahmen retrofitted the thing with all the bells and whistles, she taught me how to fix anything should it break. She was a real survivalist and wanted me to know how to take care of myself again, for the “just in case”. In order to do this, I would need to make sure I knew where to get any items I may need down the road. So, I set up my laptop on the table in the kitchen and started to do my research.

It wasn’t long before I was able to find the closest grocery store that stayed open late enough, as well as a local hardware store. With those mapped out, I grabbed my purse and keys, my GPS (in case I needed it… although, my mother taught me only to use it in emergencies. She wanted me to know how to depend on only myself) and headed out to unhook my little Scion XA from the camper. Successfully untethered, I headed out on my journey to discover the beginnings of what Caldwell may have to offer me.

#SettingUpShop #SASDBDRP

[veiledtreasurebdbrp]

BETTING THE FARM

Caldwell, New York. The forbidden city… at least it was supposed to be for me. It was the one place on this earth that my mahmen swore she would never take me. She was always telling me horror stories about how she came from another place and when she was pregnant with me, that place was attacked and overrun by a horde of murderers, forcing her to take refuge down in this world, “This Side” she used to call it. She told me she was sure after that happened, they must have had the power to come down to “This Side” and overthrow the Brotherhood as well, making Caldwell the worst place for our kind to be. However, I had heard whispers, from those she paid to nourish me, that there was in fact a King of our kind, alive and well and living in Caldwell, along with his Brotherhood, strong in numbers, living in the city with him. That led me to believe that all may not have been lost on “The Other Side”, as well. So, when my mahmen passed a few months ago, Caldwell was the only place I wanted to go. I wanted to find others of my own kind. Not just the ones my mahmen called civilians, the ones she paid to feed me. I wanted to meet others that may have come from “The Other Side”, the ones that were supposed to be my true sisters.

That’s how I landed here, in Caldwell, all alone. It took me a while to get here. I had to take care of all of my mahmen’s things, as well as Alexandria’s after their deaths. Alexandria was the female that took us in many years ago, after the attack. She helped my mahmen though the pregnancy and taught us how to live, hidden from the rest of the world, in the Rocky Mountains of Colorado. She taught my mahmen how to find civilians willing to provide her, and later me, nourishment for payment. This was also where she found someone willing to help me during my transition. She also helped my mahmen find work in order to pay for such things. She was a kind female and I missed her just about as much as I missed my mahmen. For all intents and purposes, she may as well have been a second mahmen to me.

A few months ago, she and my mahmen were doing the most mundane thing, grocery shopping just before closing. While they were out in the parking lot, loading up their car, a group of lessers just happened upon them. The whole run in was by sheer accident but, the lessers took advantage of the situation and killed my mahmen and Alexandria.

Now, I was in the city I was forbidden to come to, looking for the sisters I could only hope were still living. I was betting everything I had left in this world, as well as my life, that if this King and his Brotherhood actually did exist here in Caldwell, there was a chance my sisters did too.

#BettingTheFarm #SASBDB

[veiledtreasurebdbrp]

New things to come. Same story, new family.

[veiledtreasurebdbrp]

Looking To Help Out

Treasure:

It had been weeks since I had met Marissa in that coffee shop and I felt bad that I hadn’t at least given her a quick call to thank her for her help. My mahmen had taught me much better than that. So, before I did anything else today, I made sure I picked up the phone and dialed the number on Marissa’s card.

I chose the number on the card that was a direct dial number to Marissa’s office and I was half not expecting her to answer. I’m sure she’s got plenty to do while at work than sit at her desk all evening. Because of this, I was really just planning on leaving her a message. So, I was surprised when I actually heard her voice at the other end, answering the call. “Hi. Marissa. This is Treasure. I don’t know if you remember me?” It was more of a question than a statement. “We met at a coffee shop a few weeks back and you gave me your card, as well as a few others of places I could find some blood.” I stopped there and waited to see if she did remember me. @Marissa_BDBRW

Marissa: I was in my office working on some files and the phone rang, I picked it up and it was quiet, Hello Marissa here, how may I help you? I waited for the person to answer me. As she spoke, she asked me a few questions. Oh yes! I remember you needed help to find blood, did you manage to find a place? “Waits for Treasure to answer” @Treasure_BDBRW!

Treasure:

A soft smile graced my lips as I heard the recognition in her voice. She had been such a sweet person to me that day. “I did, and I wanted to thank you for that. It was very much needed and he and I have made arrangements for me to call on him again, in the future.”

There was another thing tugging at my thoughts for some time, “Aside from thanking you for that, I also had a question for you. I’m not sure what the procedure is or what kinds of qualifications one would need but, I would love to come in and help out at Safe Place, if you have any openings for that?” I had been hoping to be able to do this basically because, being in an area so populated by our kind, I wanted to be of some service, feel useful. But also because, I wanted a way to learn more about our kind. My mahmen had kept me so secluded, I didn’t know much about living WITH our kind. @Marissa_BDBRW

Marissa: Listening to Treasure no need to thank me, would have done it for anyone. I am glad that you have someone to call on if needed. You don’t need any qualifications to work here most of the people here are either volenteers or family. I would be happy to help in anyway I can.  Treasure you can start of as 1 or 2 days and we could take it from there if you want? What are your thoughts, Treasure? @Treasure_BDBRW

Treasure:

I was so glad to hear how easy it would be to help out at Safe Place. I was hoping there wouldn’t be some sort of prerequisite in counseling or something like that. I just wanted to be of some sort of assistance, and what better way than to help out with with the females of our race? I almost feel a bit of kinship to them. Not that I have gone through anything as traumatic as them but, I often feel like a wayward soul, alone in the world, no family, no real home, and I know very little about my own race. My face lights up at the thought of finally being able to be a part of our community. “How about we start with one day, for now. I am also looking for work at the moment so, I want to be available for any hours I can get there. I’m sure there is paperwork to fill out. When would be a good time to stop in to do that?” @Marissa_BDBRW

Marissa: Anytime is good, if I am not here you could talk to Mary or Beth or any of the other’s usually I am here unless I am with my hellren. Which is normally not very often. He works a lot and my workload keeps building here. I will leave the paperwork with a another if I have to leave, when you come just ask for me. “Smiling softly” I am sure we can work something out, Treasure. @TreasureBDBRW

Treasure:

My lips curled up into a wide smile. I was excited about all this. This would be my first, small step into becoming an active member of my own race. However, as excited as I was, I couldn’t put aside that the thought did have its duality. What if I were recognized as a Chosen? What happens to Chosen when they are found? Are they locked away? Abused? Even killed sometimes as in all the stories my mahmen used to tell me about? Or are the rumors I’ve been hearing for the last ten or so years true? Are there others of my kind out there? Do they really have a place in our society? I was hoping that taking on this volunteer position would be the first step towards me finding out the answers to all my questions. “That sounds great, Marissa. I was planning on driving in to the city tomorrow so, I’ll stop by then to fill out the paperwork. Thank you again for the opportunity. I am really excited about this.” After we said our goodbyes, I hung up the phone and rushed off to my room to decide what I would wear to my first day there.

#LookingToHelpOut #BDBRW

[veiledtreasurebdbrp]

Laundry Day

It had been a few days since I had gone to the club and I was feeling completely refreshed from finally feeding, after months of going without. However, there was something still nagging at my brain. One word, or name as the case may be... Rahvenous. My run-in with the stunning male had not strayed far from thoughts since he walked away from me that night. The vision of his stare boring into me, was etched into my brain, those beautiful blue eyes... and the sensation I so quickly dismissed that shot through me when I touched him, I felt over and over again, like an echo. I wasn’t entirely sure why I couldn’t get this male out of my head. I had met males like him before, beautiful, sweet, courteous… yet, something about Rahvenous was different. With those other males, I never had the kinds of problems I was experiencing now. Never had I been so obsessed with the color of their eyes or the sound of their voices. Never had I gone home and days later, still been picking apart every second of the run-in with them, hoping I hadn’t made a total ass of myself. Never had I gone home wishing I had not laid eyes upon any one of them due to being afraid of the strong desire I was now feeling to know everything about this male.

I swiftly stood up from the table where I had been eating first meal, wondering what was on my list of things to do for the day. I needed something to keep me preoccupied. All this thinking was going to get me in trouble. I grabbed the dishes and made my way to the sink. Unfortunately, it didn’t take me long to wash them so, I was off to other things. Fortunately, living in the big tincan I was living in, there was always something that needed to be done.

Looking at my list, I had intended on going out and getting myself one of those steel carports for the camper. Not for sun related reasons but, more for protection of the outside walls of the camper from all the elements. All that snow and ice can create costly expenses. Of course, the first of the snow had fallen so, this was priority one on my list. The other things on my list to do were to lubricate the slide out rails, which could wait for another day, and to check and repair any seals on the doors and windows. That would need to be done sooner rather than later. So, top on my list, the carport. If I had time, checking the seals.

Content with my list, I decided that while I was shopping for a carport, I could drop off some laundry to be done. I had finally found a place that had a wash and fold service and a detergent they used that I liked. A couple of the places I tried first, my clothes came back smelling funny. This place uses a detergent with a nice, clean fragrance.

As I went through my pile of laundry I checked all the pockets, dropping change into my jar, tossing receipts I didn’t need anymore… until I came across a napkin from ZeroSum. Dropping the jacket I had been wearing that night on the floor and focusing solely on the folded up piece of paper in my hand. Rhavenous. I’m not quite sure how long I stood there looking at the napkin, once more reviewing every moment of that night. How was it possible that such a delicate thing could be so incredibly dangerous? It was that thought that forced me to rush to the bathroom and toss the paper into the trash, shuffling around some paper cups that were already in the trash so as to cover the napkin. That was that. It was done. Decision made. My one and only tie to the male, disposed of.

#LaundryDay #BDBRW