SEPTEMBER MASQUERADE BALL---------- vampires only!

[.eornoM adlitaM ybuR]

Ruby was now leaning against a wall, nearly thoroughly bored. Like fuck she knew anyone here really. Where were all her vampiric friends? Much to hip and aloof for shit like this. Fuck this! It was a terrible mistake to come. Her blue eyes shot to the alcohol bar wearily, bent on the fact she needed to visit it, she wanted the burning sensation of something strong to slide down her now blood coated throat.

So without further adieu, she lifted herself from the wall, tipping whatever contents was left of her glass back into the fountain. Like hell they'd care, it wasn't like she did. She propped the goblet on the window sill that spilled in the bright moon. Her clutch was in a tight grip as her heels clacked across the marble flooring, her attire making her stick out like a sore thumb amongst the other long dressed women.

She had made it a little over halfway across the marble floor before an uneasiness came over her, then calm. Her footsteps never halted, the only evidence to her emotions was her facial features, which seemed puzzled and confused, full of worry. Her lips were pursed in the manner also, her fingers winding themselves tighter against the hard case of her clutch.

It only took a few more seconds before it hit her like wildfire. When the full force burning sensation plumed up in her sinuses. Her eyes widened, her mouth involuntarily salivating. She swallowed it down with a gulp, she could feel a cold sweat breaking out all over her.

"Fuck," she murmured under her breath, tucking her head in low as she walked as quickly as possible without jogging to the bar. Her mind raced, her bottom lip hard between her teeth and fang. She couldn't even process it, she knew it was him, there was no doubt. A few times in the last four years she may have come about someone with a vaguely familiar scent.. more than likely they had a vaguely similar past, but no. This was her Lars. He seemed intensified, though. She guessed it was just because she hadn't actually taken in his scent in so long. It was hard to forget, after a many passionate night together. That simple trait was forever etched into her mind. Along with the way his lips turned up, that gleam in his eye when he had something up his sleeve. The way he perspired, his voice-

No, no, no, no. She told herself repeatedly in her head, her hands promptly slapping down on the bar, strong enough to release some frustration, but not hard enough to draw much attention to herself. Her brows were furrowed as the bartender glanced at her wearily.

"Jack and coke," she grumbled, holding her forehead in the small space between her thumb and index finger, her elbow on the bar-top as she plopped herself on a stool. The mask was irritating her now, she couldn't even release her frustrations out properly, couldn't feel her cold sweat on her brow. It fucking annoyed her to shits.

Her body seemed to be frozen, just waiting for a tap on the shoulder, a drink in his hand and a long awaited, "Long time no see," to spill from his full lips. But she knew full well that that wouldn't and couldn't happen. Last she saw him he had been thoroughly upset with her. Enough to not even keep the dog tag around his neck that bore her name and some froofy lovey lyrics they'd picked out for each other. No, and that small gesture gave her a good mind to know he didn't want anything more to do with her. If he had hope for anything in the future he never would have, even enraged, Lars would have just stashed it away out of sight. The simple dog tag was a metaphor into the fact that he wanted her erased from his memory, not even stored in the back for a keepsake. And of course there was her, pathetic enough to come back moments after he'd tossed it into the empty street and retrieve it for her own. She had always laughed at herself for it, it was just silly after all. But she never had the heart to let it go, much less take either off from around her neck on a regular basis. They were the only thing besides her memory she had left of him. But for events like these? Well she could bear to part from the trinkets for a night.

Her stiff body seemed to loosen a bit when the bartender finally brought her her drink. She glanced up once, obviously her emotions shining through her blue eyes intensely, as she could easily see by the male's reaction. She pursed her lips, trying to sooth her tone before she spoke, "Straw please?" The simple thing would lighten her mood considerably. At least she wouldn't have to reapply any lipstick. He popped a black plastic tube n the glass cup, she smiled, her forehead till in her palm as she began sipping at it.

Was it natural to feel like your bare back was on fire? OF course, when your ex lover was behind it it must be. The beverage burned her throat, or maybe it was still his scent. All she could tell was that it was canceling something out, the alcohol clearing her senses some. Enough that she sipping long and hard, relishing in the relief and little brain freeze it gave her. Couldn't get much colder than the dead, but hell, it was doing the trick a little bit. It only took a few more of these large gulps before she realized she was holding her breath. Releasing it with a sigh she took in breath again tentatively. Nothing. Nothing but a small little linger.

She took the chance in turning around slightly, maybe she might catch sight of his frame, anything. But nothing. After the first clear glance she got the balls to widen her perspective. Still, nothing. "See, B? Nothing's going to even fucking happen, not one fucking little thing," she whispered to herself shakily, her lips latching onto the straw slowly for another sip.

Her mind slapped itself, laughing at herself nervously. Gently reminding her that she was in a mask, and then she could still demand leave whenever she damn well pleased. A massive sigh escaped her nostrils at this. Her eyes closing, trying to relax herself. Just to know he was in the same fucking room made her anxious, made her un-beating heart flutter and end up in her throat.

If only she could just cough it up in front of him, offer it to him one more time and erase history.

1170 words, and outfit such as this and mask like this plus with tunes like alkaline trio makes for this post here. and another thing this is tagged to -pets B-.

[Ali Ambrose]

Things were a little different? Yeah that was putting it mildly. She would have said it was a bit extremely different. Everything in this world she knew had changed into something she didnt know. And normally she was very good at keeping up with things. She was a good listener and even though no one had told her, she had found out that Nix had her baby and then left it back in Paris with her sister Katra. She also knew Kat had her pups. But this, this news she hadnt found out.

Maybe it was brand new and no one else knew. She would have found out eventually and then tracked Nix down. Contract or no contract. Sevanni would not keep her away from her best friend. She would have attacked Sevanni if she had to if that meant she could see Nix. But luckily she wouldnt have to do that. Meeting her here was a bit of a shock, but she was pleased to see her. She had missed her so much. She couldnt even remember the last time they had seen each other. But like always, Ali always knew what was going on with her.

In fact, she had known Nix was pregnant without having heard it from Nix herself. Sev had found her and tried to get her to tell her where Nix was. But that didnt happen. She wondered how much Sevanni still hated her and how much he wanted her dead. But she wouldnt ruin this moment with memories like that. She grinned at Nix and couldnt keep that grin off her face. Even though she knew that Nix hated being a vampire, she was so happy to see her. And a small selfish part was overjoyed that she would never loose her best friend ever.

Ali didnt have to look to know Vic was coming up behind her. She was intuned to him more then she had ever been to anyone else. He was apart of her. She didnt know where she stopped and he began. And it was a good thing. Seeing the surprise dance in Nix's eyes though she could only guess at what was going through that girls mind. Here was her childhood friend who had been a werewolf and now was a vampire. And not to mention they hadnt seen each other in a while. She took a step back out of habit to give them a moment. She had hers with Nix and it was wonderful, but they needed theirs.

How ever, Nix noticed another thing that had slipped her mind. Sure Ali was up to date with a lot of things, but Nix wasnt. She must have been surprised they even knew each other. And then she pulled them aside to a little corner and asked them a question that brought a smile to Ali's pixie like face. They were married. And Nix hadnt known they were even together let alone knew each other. But she nodded as Vic wrapped an arm around her. "Yeah...I met Vic a while back...When I was still with Stephan actually." She blushed a tiny bit and then shook her head, her curls bobbing.

"It just...clicked. I dont know. We were really good friends for a long time and then....." Ali cut off and she sighed. "And then of course Stephan died, Adam left, I was all alone. I ran to Vic....It just sort of..grew into this." For a moment, she was panicked as she realized there might be a problem. Would Nix approve of her with Vic? Would she approve of this at all? She had no doubts that Nix would choose Vic over her since they had known each other much longer.

But before she could ask any questions Nix turned to Vic and asked him about the vampire turning. Had it been his choice. Ali looked to the ground and seemed a bit awkward. She hated that subject. She hated remembering those days of pain he had gone through all because she had been the one to agree to change him. She regretted it, and didnt regret it. Without him being a vampire, she could never have him with her forever. He would have left forever and she would have stayed here alone on earth for forever. But he had to have been in so much pain. And at times she saw him struggle for control. It was all her fault for making him a monster.

Quickly deciding to change the subject before she politely would have left, she looked back up to Nix and smiled. "Rose is here you know. But I dont think you want to go say hi at the moment. Last I saw, she was talking with Aubrey." She told her. Then realized that Nix might not know all the scents yet. But she wasnt going to point out Aubrey to her quit yet. That might not be a good thing. Just like Ali would be avoiding Hyde like he was a disease. She didnt want to talk with her sire. Not at all. Not after their last encounter. She now understood where the darkness in her came from. It came from the source itself.

[Darien Greer]

The Tux
The Cover-Up

Darien had never been more excited about anything in his rather short, comparatively, life than he was about this ball. He'd always stayed with Sevanni inside, he'd rarely been shown to the outside world except for the occasional book shopping trip, or museum excursion. Never had he been exposed to Sevanni's peers, Sevanni's kind, Darien's own kind. The opportunity had just never arisen, that Darien was aware of. But he was ecstatic that tonight it should.

His collar was gone, allowing him to stand straight and proud at Sevanni's side, as if he were close to being the man's equal. His friend. Though to the people here it would probably look as if he were just another bodyguard. Darien's desire to see and be seen had surprised him, never before had he so longed to be in the company of others. Perhaps it was his months spent alone with Schuyler, constantly on the run. Hating the boy for ruining his chances at happiness, but not being able to actually hate the boy.

Sometimes his conscience really pissed him off.

Fellow slaves would have told him that he should have kept running, but this night and the privileges he'd been granted in so short an amount of time told Darien that he had made the right choice. While Sevanni may not be able to outwardly show or admit that he loved Darien, Darien himself could see it in the things that Sevanni did and the way Sevanni treated him, and that was really all that mattered. Darien had no need to prove to anyone but himself that Sevanni loved him, his own knowledge was enough.

Phoenix looked beautiful, as he was sure she always did. The three of them made quite a picture as they entered the ball. Darien sensed several heads turning their way, though that could have been simply because people were recognizing Phoenix's(he just couldn't think of her as Nixie or Nix having never been given permission to call her such) change from werewolf to vampire. Darien himself would have been shocked if he hadn't know it was coming.

The masque was in full swing when they arrived, just late or fashionably so Darien did not know, such things were never required of a slave to know. It was either be there, or get punished. So usually on time or early was best.

He turned to Sevanni and gave him a smile akin to sunshine as Phoenix ran off to talk to some people she obviously knew.

"So what do we do now sir? I've never been to such an event." He assumed that there would be some people that Sevanni would want to see, say hello to. Darien spotted only one person he knew, Aubrey Mayor. His lip curled at the sight of her, there was no love lost between them. But other than her, Darien recognized no one, he had been shut up and out of this society a long time ago, through his own actions.

He waited on Sevanni for his orders on what to do next.

[*Phoenix McKenzie]

She hadn't seen Victor in so long... Or Ali, either... And here she thought that Ali and Rose were going to be the two that were in for a shock... Apparently, Ali had a few surprises of her own... Nix hadn't even been aware that Victor and Ali even KNEW each other... None the less that they were getting married. And then the shock of finding out that she wasn't the only one who Sevanni had done this to... How many others? Or were they the only ones? She had been the one to bite Victor and turn him into a werewolf... And then she had abandoned him... To filled with her own shame and guilt to even stand looking at him... He had chased after her that day in the hospital, tried to catch her... But his speed hadn't kicked in yet, so he didn't even stand a chance. She hadn't given him a choice about whether he wanted to be a lycan or not... He had been at the wrong place at the wrong time... Been around her on the full moon...

She flung her arms around Victor's neck when Ali stepped back to let the two of them have their moment, squeezing him tightly. "I missed you Vicy... I'm sorry about that day... I am so sorry... I should have never left you like that... You must hate me for it..." She hugged him for a moment longer, enjoying the feel of being around something so familiar. No matter what species he was, vampire, werewolf, or human, Victor was always familiar to her. He had been her childhood friend... Her first kiss... And the father of her first child... Though he wasn't aware of that fact. She didn't think that he even remembered having sex with her, he had been so drunk that night. She had lost that child in a fight with a vampire... Had a miscarriage... And when she had met back up with him that night at the bar, she had seen absolutely no reason to tell him that... and she still didn't. If she had anything to say about it, Victor Ambrose would never know of that night, or the child resulting of it.

She pulled back and smiled at them both, the happiest she had been in a long while. She watched as Victor wrapped his arm around Ali's waist, and she could see the happiness in him. She smiled and kissed both of their foreheads quickly. "I couldn't be more happy for you both... If it had been any other person, they wouldn't have been worthy. But the two of you... You're both perfect."

Victor relieved some of her stress when he told her that becoming a vampire had been his choice. She sighed, nodding. "At least Sevanni gave you a choice, where I had none... That's more than I gave you... I can't ever tell you how sorry I am for that night, Victor..." Though Victor may forgive her for that night, she still, even now, hadn't been able to forgive herself.

Rose is here you know. But I dont think you want to go say hi at the moment. Last I saw, she was talking with Aubrey. Phoenix's lip curled slightly at the mention of Aubrey, a low hiss pushing through clenched teeth. There was definitely never any love between the two of them. She despised Aubrey, almost as much as she did Emiste... Almost, but not quite. Emiste still held the position of her person she hated most on this earth... She had even pushed her way past Sevanni, and that in itself was a shocker. "I think I will wait for her to come to me... It shouldn't take her long to figure out that I'm here and come looking to see what the hell I'm doing at a vampire's masque."

[Shaden Grace]

It was almost disorienting to be around so many others, people he knew but never bothered to talk to. He couldn't believe Aubrey had shown up here, and now Helena wanted to know who she was. He shouldn't have looked at her like that. She seemed to be doing a good job of ignoring his presence. That kind of hurt. She could at least look at him. But whatever. He'd make her notice him.

Oh he would be on his best behavior tonight, but the temptation to talk to her wasn't something he could ignore. Mostly though he wanted to get near those twins. He wanted to see their faces when he talked to her. How upset they would be. He looked at Helena, "I'll explain later." He told her softly. It was only fair she knew, but that dissuasion was better saved for another time.

Rose. He knew her well enough, though it wasn't as if they'd shared a conversation or anything. It came very close to annoying, the way he seemed to know everyone here. He nearly wished he could move. However, that option was impossible now. He nodded but said nothing as she excused herself.

And of course Sevanni had to show up, bringing with him Phoenix and Darien. Phoenix he had no problems with anymore, but Darien was just creepy. The way he followed after Sevanni like some damn lost dog, and what was worse he was willing to do anything for him. Shaden would never become like that. "Well this just keeps getting better and better.." He muttered sarcastically. He smiled at her. And even though he really didn't want to he walked toward Sevanni, still holding Helena's hand.

He stopped on the opposite side Darien was standing, wishing to distance himself from Sevanni's little play thing. "I didn't realize you would be coming, Sevanni." He said it almost like a question, wondering why he was here. There had to be a reason behind it, especially sense Aubrey was here. Shaden would have thought he'd avoid this because of her.

It bothered him a little, to have Sevanni here. Shaden could be insanely paranoid at times and with him here it would be a distraction, consistently looking to see where he was and if he was anywhere near him and Helena. But at the same time he was glad Sevanni could see him here with Helena, kind of like throwing the fact that he couldn't separate them in his face. Shaden was an envelope pusher. He enjoyed pushing his luck as far as he could, trying to get himself in trouble. Hell, it wasn't his fault he craved trouble so much.

Shaden absently wondered who long they'd been there already. It couldn't have been too long but he was sudden;y dying for an escape, even for only a few minutes. These types of events simply were not for him. He liked his space. Liked being able to talk freely without having to worry about saying something wrong. Oh, he he hated not having the option of misbehaving. Where was the fun in behaving? There was none. Shaden looked over at Darien for the first time coming over here. He'd never talk to him, so it wouldn't surprise Shaden if he didn't know or didn't remember who he was.

[HIDDEN EVIL]

"So what do we do now sir? I've never been to such an event." Darien had asked while he overlooked the crowd that had gathered. How could he miss Giselle and Lars so easily? The eyes that moved away from Aubrey and her boys. He would have liked to have brought his girls but they were always avoiding these things because Dae hated it to no extent, even if Nite had wanted to go, she never let her sister spend time alone because they were held together like glue. Sharing emotions and always being his angelic kittens that were full of horrible ideas and schemes.

What should Darien do? Well, this was a night of absolute fun was it not? "Venture out.....have some fun." He whispered in his direction as a gentleman did at a function such as that. Then of course he had taken notice of Nixie before, talking to what appeared to be Ali and her new changed man. He wondered if they thought it was truly worth it. How long would they really last? A little eye roll as he turned his head away from the mention of his name and a vulger notation of his character. A little smirk moved over the corner of his mouth just as he had viewed Shaden accompanied by, oh my, Helena Kyle. Well, wasn't this a faulty night.

"I didn't realize you would be coming, Sevanni." Well, that was the thing, he wasn't suppose to be there at all. But of course he had always divulged in things his newlings had always wanted to do, something as this had to make him go because she was far too new to not step our of bounds. As careful as she was and so little she had changed, she was still his responsibility.

"And how good of you to bring such a ......" Finding the words to say without actually being exclusively rude. "Embodied date." Eyes nudged a smart ass look in her direction, parting lips to grin. "Darien allow me to introduce Helena Kyle, and I assume you already know Mr. Shaden Grace." A shining smile had seemed a bit too indulgent with the formalities, driving the gold ball straight back at him.

Oh the night was going to prove to be interesting indeed.

Of course Shaden would may or may not know about changing Nixie, so of course it had to stay a bit out of his nose if he hadn't. It wasn't as if Shaden had been on his need to know list of people, so why go about spreading the word when the word was no so easily leaked?

He expected her to give a warm intro to those she didn't know all too well, and Darien of course had to be filled in with the latest endeavors of the events he had so ruefully missed. "Miss. Kyle here is an artist from the early Rembrandt days." A soft relaxing sigh was made audible. "Of course, she hasn't paints a single thing since the early forties." A little smirk as if he had known something..." And she had yet to indulge anyone of why that is so." Her buttons he could push, he knew that was the easy part.

"Shaden is the one working on getting Annabella here to New York....someone who.....likes to have his cake, and ice cream and eat it to." Eyes nearly glinted, how much more could they bare to put themselves on display like that? Challenge him mentally wouldn't work, and as much as he had rather liked and enjoyed Shaden, Sevanni had to give it back times three like a witches curse.

[*♥ Helena Kyle ♥]

Maybe they had been a little to hard with their presence for the girl had wandered off to some people she had apparently known. It seemed that everyone had been drawn to her for some reason, and it made her want to know who she was. "I'll explain later." Then the question in her mind posed, was it such a complication? Not even a name. It didn't make her chest well, but it was odd he wouldn't so much as mention a name.

Her eyes looked away as he turned his. "Well this just keeps getting better and better.." The sarcasm making his sight all too clear. Just when she thought the night would be free of him, or so she heard, it went completely opposite, which was a rather disappointment. He had smiled at her but she hadn't the strength to even push a smile, he moved forward and for a second her reluctance had kept her in the same spot as if she were glued there.

She did follow him however, not wanting to be entirely rude and just leave him to avoid Sevanni. She didn't want to let go of his hand, not for a second.

Sevanni's own hello had been quite rude and assaulting in her direction. Was it a hit against her or both of them? She couldn't tell, he was too damn cryptic for her tastes.

"Miss. Kyle here is an artist from the early Rembrandt days." An introduction to the young looking male beside him in a mention of her past skill and reputation. How dare he bring that up, and especially to a complete stranger, not to mention Shaden. Awkwardly she smirked, wanting to smile politely but she simply smirked.

"Of course, she hasn't paints a single thing since the early forties." A small huff was passed out of nostrils and throat, getting rather annoyed of her mentionings from his mouth. " And she had yet to indulge anyone of why that is so." She could swallow it for now and not be rude. Be the better person and be lady like as she knew how at things like this. Functions. Gathering of the masses.

"Perhaps a topic better left for tea." She joked as vampires didn't tea, but the English did, and it would be understood between the two. A soft nod of her head, graciously given to the two, ugh, she could have just walked off then and there and ignored the fact that he was there.

[Victor Ambrose]

Nixie was there… yes… she was there. Her hug proved to him that this wasn’t a dream.
"I missed you Vicy... I'm sorry about that day... I am so sorry... I should have never left you like that... You must hate me for it..."
He hugged her back and sort of chuckled at her words… because he never did blame her. Although it would have been nice to have her by his side that day, he understood why she did what she did in retrospect. She was scared, and he didn’t blame her. She was scared that he would hate her for taking away his choice in life, putting him smack dab in the middle of a world she thought he shouldn’t be a part of. She was ashamed that she lost control that night and could have killed him, rather than turning him. It also didn’t help that she saw him as a brother while at the time, he loved Nixie. To some extent, he hoped that she loved him more than that. Maybe she did. Maybe she didn’t. After all, as children, they were closer than actual brothers and sisters. He will never forget the first time they kissed…
They were young… And out of the blue, Nixie was curious about kissing… so she used him as an experiment, kissing him when he least expected it. He blushed so badly and passed out. Ah, the memories they shared together…

He cupped her face into his hands and kissed her fore head.
“Pup… I never blamed you for anything. Not for putting a hole in my back. Not for turning me into a werewolf. Not for leaving. Hell, I never blamed you for leaving me with nothing except a guitar on my birthday. I only wished I could have been around you longer. I don’t hate you Nixie, and in fact, I should be thanking you. You gave me a new life, and without that new life, I could have never met Ali… So thank you”
He smiled at her and hugged her again.

"I couldn't be more happy for you both... If it had been any other person, they wouldn't have been worthy. But the two of you... You're both perfect."
His arm around his wife, he smiled at her approval. “Thank you Nixie. You have no idea how much I’m glad to hear you say that.”
He really was happy to hear that. It made him feel better knowing that his best friend was on their side on it.

"At least Sevanni gave you a choice, where I had none..."
“It was more like I bargained with Sevanni. I hunted him down and we negotiated the terms of the contract…”
“That's more than I gave you... I can't ever tell you how sorry I am for that night, Victor..."
“Phoenix…” you know he was serious when he said their names fully like that. “Don’t apologize. You have nothing to apologize for. Besides, this should be a great moment in our lives! We finally ran into each other, and surprise surprise, look how it all turned out. Just have a good time, okay?”

[Ellie]

Lars watched her as she drank, holding her purse awkwardly. Long ago he'd came to the sad conclusion there was no masculine way to hold them when you did the little favor, not usually anyways, but Giselle's bag was small enough to just fit in one hand hanging at his side while the other hand rested in the pocket of his trousers. At least he didn't have to surrender it to the shoulder. Breathing regularly through his nose, his eyes just wandered about the back gardens casually. He'd seen fairer and poorer, so it didn't amuse him for that long a time.

Giselle had released the human from her hold, rather quickly, but Lars could have figured she was smart enough not to need the reminder to not make the poor thing pass out, regardless of how large he was. Lars smiled at the thought, he always had motives. Choosing the tall, big fellow, well it was only logical, considering they'd be sharing, and they wanted to keep the thing walking at least a little bit. Hardly a random choice, there.

His leather mask reflected the pale moon's light only by a little as he moved his head up and down moderately, a little grin on his face at her first words, "Oh I know, but this was just a win/win. So I'd figure I'd tough it." His words were barely finished before she abruptly kissed him, her lips tasted like that of the man's blood. It was returned of course, regardless of how obstructive her mask was. Leather masks were one thing, something not too obscure to their kissing habits so to speak, but obtrusive plate-like ones were a different story.

He smiled against her lips as she went on, his hands gently resting on her hips, "But fine,"

[/color] he breathed, "You just have more fun wrestling my suits on don't you?" His mind went back to the ball many moths prior, in London, he'd protested profusely and put up quite the struggle. But alas, there were only so many places you could dart off to in the small house he owned there. If it had been the mansion the chase would have taken much longer before she could take him down.

Without another word his and slipped from the sides of her satin dress, his feet carrying past her and to the mortal still on his knees. Lars's tattooed hand ran on the top of his head once, smoothing the gelled hair back again where Giselle had marred it. After the quick gesture it only took a little poke to the side of his temple to get him to tilt his head again. It took minimal bending before his own fangs were sunken into his flesh, taking in only a few drafts before he could sense the blood donor's growing distress. With a harsh shove to his shoulder, Lars's teeth were dis-attached, maybe a little too harshly, given the mortal's reflex to grip at his neck. Oops. Well it was either that or just continue eating him alive, right?

His tongue swept around his lips without grace, licking his chops like some dog, trying to rid any left-overs. That only lasted for a few moments before he snatched the napkin that the man was using to dab at his still bleeding neck to wipe his mouth quickly before handing the thing back to him without a second glance.

Lars sauntered back to Giselle, the leather soles of his dress shoes lightly tapping against the stone landscaping. "Ready to head back in, babe?" he asked casually, not particularly sure what they'd be doing in there, "Looks like it's filled up some. You can start trouble or some shit, liven things up," he grinned at her, joining her at her side, and wrapping an arm around her waist, which was more natural for him to do than having her clutch his arm.


[/blockquote]

650 words after and with a long listen to alkaline trio not to mention an outfit like this all I have to say is, blargh!

[aubrey]

Subtle defeats joined simultaneously at either of her sides. Silly nits, her darling deviants, knowing that they would be allowed their fun before a timely departure, but playing by the rules and being on top notch behavior was important during the majority of their time spent here. It would be rude to cause a disturbance so early in the evening, and impoliteness always had left a rather foul distaste inside of her mouth. Lids hid away golden hues as lips grazed against the delicate skin of her lobes, a deeper breath than intended as whispers fell like sinking shadows to dance and tease over her.

"Play with us in the garden, dancing nude under the stars."

Tones swirled delicately, cunning persuades of mischief, hidden promises wrapped with dark intent before that soft chuckle commenced. There was no reason to verbally deny them, but it was the fact that words fell and left images running through her mind leading thoughts drifting off in directions that were inappropriate for public. Satisfaction came with this, for all three.

A low purr escaped before she was able to stop herself, lids rising slowly as a smirk played against the corners of painted lips. It was a lost opportunity, lips parting to reply with somethign that would have them trying to pull her away from the crowd until she was interrupted by the one that she had faintly observed earlier.

“Good evening Aubrey,”

[/center]

Golden hues glared at the woman hidden behind the mask, clearly annoyed with her presence, agitated for the untimely interruption of chance to tease her twins.

“You look breathtaking as always...”

[/center]

A cold smile played against lips, as if compliments could obtain a chance with good favor. As memory served her their was unfinished business with the secretive vampiress before her, but this was neither the time nor the place.

“So how have you been?”

[/center]

How quaint. A nice little conversation as if they had been long lost acquaintances unfortunately Aubrey was in no mood to play catch up, even for the sake of being a pleasant party guest. "Oh I've been just fine trinket." With a small amused laugh Aubrey leaned in slightly to Kane. "I think I need air, it's become rather...crowded." spoken with a bemused distaste, humor dancing behind words as she began to step forward, moving past Rose as if she had not existed at all.

Midway through their departure Aubrey turned so that she could view Rose from the corner of her eye. "It seems that their are tramps that are more fitting for your company trinket, but don't fret. You'll be seeing me soon enough." A cruel smile played at the corners of her mouth before turning back and proceeding to move away, making way toward the open balcony. This was turning out to be interesting indeed. "Boys...why don't you bring us someone to play with." Spoken in low tones, eyes flickering momentarily to the sniveling slave that had taken something precious away from Aubrey. Kane and Abel would know who she meant, and she trusted that he would be brought to her.

Slipping from their arms she moved forward on her own, stepping out into the open space casually, advancing until her hands could take hold of the elaborate railing, eyes falling down to the gardens below and those that inhabited the space. A soft chiming laugh echoed for a moment before fading into the night.

Interesting indeed.

[Rose Decumbry]

Blue eyes danced a little, anticipating the answer. And it was none too short of what she expected. Aubrey had a sharp, and witty tongue. Looking a little pierce in fact, pained at her site. Poor, poor Aubrey. Blue tints turned dark, a little cold and hard. "Oh I've been just fine trinket." A head inclined, Rose nodded, as if she understood what she had meant by fine. Obviously not for her ears to hear. The movement, and laughter towards one of her lookalikes, perked Rose’s irritated nerve. "I think I need air, it's become rather...crowded." Oh please, if you wanted to leave just say it, don’t play around the tree. A sneer was hidden, fauxed with understanding eyes. Eyes trailed on her as she turned, leaving. So be it. Hues shot up once more, as she spoke. "It seems that their are tramps that are more fitting for your company trinket, but don't fret. You'll be seeing me soon enough." At the word tramp, a low snarl emitted. Was she talking about Ali? The sneer widened, in disdain. Still the bitch as ever. The words flowed from her lips, catching Rose’s abrupt attention at the last. What? Narrowed eyes contemplated the sentence some more, trying to find a new meaning behind it. And then she was gone, wisped away off. Rose stood there, wavering somewhat in her place. Brushing it off as quickly as possible, regaining the confidence.

What had Aubrey said, and Rose found the meaning behind it, or at least she thought it was. Aubrey had called her trashy. As she stopped walking, her mouth hung ajar. Trashy now? She huffed, and picked up pace again, following the scent that would lead to Ali. And..Victor. And…no..that was impossible. No werewolves allowed. Any under circumstances. She stopped once more, a frown crossing her lips. Unless. “I am going to kill her..” She shook her head, walking over, head bent down. “No..I’m going to fucking rip his head off..I’ll kill them both..” She growled. Phoenix was a vampire. A vampire! Ha. Immortal. Supposed to be werewolf! But, ha, not that case. She was a vampire! A fang bearing, sun fearing, night stalking vampire! Rose felt a pull at her stomach.

Calm Rose, calm. She stopped, and breathed. Closed hues, and just breathed.

Her eyes slowly opened, the blue much more calm. Continued footsteps began, and she joined the group of three. The married couple, and Phoenix. Easily spottable from a mile away. The only one with the nerve to wear a dog mask to a vampire event. “Some things never grow old..” Rose said slowly, cold eyes sliding on Phoenix. “But I guess species do.” What possessed Phoenix to do such a thing, Rose didn’t know. Rose would trade immortality for mortality any day. But she’d never bring herself to end it. Why would Phoenix ever give up something like that? A precious soul? For what? She’d never be able to look at her the same way again. Ever. How could she? Smelled more like a vampire than a human. Sickening to some degree. Another bump in the road she’d have to cross alone, she presumed.

As always.

She laughed a little, the sound like chiming bells. “I haven’t seen you in forever. How have you been?” Luckily the mask was hiding downward turned lips, but her voice was chipper. Her eyes turned to Ali and Victor, locked on the rings for just a moment, before dragging hues up. “You as well. How’s..Las Vegas?” It seemed like everyone had moved on with their life. Sadly, she wasn’t able to say the same. Shocking now, wasn’t it? Well, things were harder then they seemed. Having an inner monster, dealing with past loves the haunted your dreams, and just recently being called trashy, getting screwed over on a deal, things had been pretty crappy lately. Though, she wouldn’t let it be known. She’d say the usual. Fine. Good. Getting by. Living. Being herself.

[Ali Ambrose]

Ali could hear how close Vic and Nix were. It made her smile. Vic needed more friends and she was always urging him to get to know people. She herself could get along with almost anyone because she didnt see the bad in people. Not unless they had continuously hurt her. Like Sevanni. She hated that man yes, but she respected him as well. He was one of the only people that could give her a run for her money in this world. Her skills were pretty damn good, and she had been able to slip out of his grasp for a while now. But now their little games were coming to an end. She couldnt touch him, and he couldnt touch her. All thanks to Victors deal.

Although, she did want to take out her frustration on Sev now for turning Nix. The poor girl had no choice like Vic had. And even Vics turning made her regret it sometimes. He was the same person but there was the anger and the bloodlust to deal with now that he was a vampire. He was doing very well. As they talked, she scanned the room with her eyes, making sure she stayed away from people that might cause a conflict between them. Such as Hyde, Sevanni and his pet Darien. She hadnt met the boy yet, but she had heard of him. And she didnt want to get into that one.

They all seemed to be at the opposite corners though and she was thankful about that one. Would keep her our of trouble and keep them all safe. Trouble had knack of finding her. Where ever she went there was always going to be one event that led up to her getting into trouble. And she really needed to learn to be less gentle. One day, that gentleness would cause problems. Nix had always told her so. And same with Rose. And speaking of Rose she glanced over to Rose after Nix had spoken up about her noticing. It was amazing that Nix's scent hadnt reached Rose yet.

But she watched as the conversation ended between Rose and Aubrey and that blonde cousin of hers started to walk over. She was looking beautiful of course, and of course, she would be the one daring enough to actually wear a full length mask. Looking over her cousin Ali felt somewhat plain. Rose always stood out in a room. And Ali never did. She blended in. It was just natural instinct. And Rose in her opinion was the prettier of the two. A small smile was placed on her lips as Rose reached them but it disappeared at Rose's words. And the look in her eyes as she gazed at Nix.

What was wrong with Rose? She couldnt possibly be disgusted with Nix? They were friends! All three of them! But Rose changed her voice to that of a cheery little thing. But Ali knew her well enough to hear the undertone of another voice. She wasnt in the mood to be cheery and she didnt want to be with them. When her gaze went to her and Vic she almost flinched. Rose was looking at them so coldly. "Fine..." She told Rose softly. Her own voice was quiet and hurt. How could Rose look at them like this. But then again, Ali should know better.

[derek]

The outfit

The mask


Why was he in New York again? That was the question running through his mind as he was back at his hotel and getting ready for the ball. Ah. Yes that was right. The ball. He had received the invite a few days ago, by mail of course, back in London. He loved dancing and parties and so he figured why not and left his restaurant business in the hands of his second in command. Eric would be able to handle it. Derek had done this to him before, told him he was going out of town and that he was in charge of the business while he was away. Although, for some odd reason, his cell phone always was ringing off the hook for questions and business offers from other people. Sometimes Eric himself would call if he was confused.

But said cell phone was turned off tonight, placed neatly on the dresser by the elegant bed of the hotel room. He normally didnt stay long in places and would only need a hotel for a night or two and so he came to this one that was fancy but not over the top. Why over indulge when you were going to a vampire masque anyway. Surely you could over indulge yourself there in the pretty women and the elegant lights and the music and everything else that had been rumored to make these balls held by the vampires magnificent.

This would be the first one he had ever attended in all honesty. True he had received the invites long before this night, every single one in fact, but he just felt like he needed to go to this one. It was the first time hearing of a masquerade though and it was interesting to see the twist in events. Maybe there were some people there tonight that he could meet and have a small friendship with. Sad to say, he was pretty friendless, choosing to stay disconnected with people after what had happened with his brother and Lissa. Thats all he would need. Was to be hurt again. But he had to admit, he was a bit of a romantic and that fact alone drove him on to flirt with women and be a kind gentlemen.

Finishing up with the tie he looked over himself in the mirror. Not to bad. Not to bad. He had bought the tux and mask in the same place, a shop that was run by a vampire and he had heard of the ball and figured others would want to buy the masks and the dresses and tuxes. Humans would just think it was some strange fancy Halloween shop. But he picked up the mask he had bought, two different colors and patterns on each side that had amused him, and placed it on his face to cover up his features. All that is but his stunning sapphire blue eyes.

With that ready to go, he grabbed his hotel key, shoved it in his pocket, turned off the light and went outside to where the car the hosts had sent over was waiting. Getting in he greeted the driver kindly, got no response and looked out the window as they drove past the sights. He had only ever been to New York once before. And that had been on a business trip. Maybe this time, he could take some time out and do some sight seeing. Make this a pleasure trip. Not one where he would attend and then disappear back to London. It was a thought and one he was still pondering on as he arrived at the ball.

"Thank you." He replied to the man, no response once more and he got out of the car, watching it drive away. The music drifted out to him, but he took a breath, ran his fingers through his dark hair and then made his way up to the front door. He handed the invite to the doorman and then entered into the ballroom. It was stunning to say the least and all the colors mixing and swirling together could make anyone breathless. But he could feel the hostility in the air between some groups of people. Thats why sometimes it was never good to come to these. Some people never liked another person and when they met, trouble started. At the first sign of a huge conflict that could get him involved, he was going to head out.

He knew no one here sadly, but that didnt come as a surprise. So he went over to a small part of the ball, a little bit away from a group of girls and one male. Two of the women were blonde and one was brunette while the male had dark hair. The little brunette was obviously the wife of the male, seeing the wedding ring on their fingers. But the two blondes didnt have any commitments. There was some anger and hurt feelings drifting from that group and so he stayed clear away even though that poor male fellow was probably drowning in estrogen. When a woman walked by with champagne glasses on a tray he snatched one up, nodding his head at her in thanks and then light sipped at the concoction, just letting his eyes roam the place.

[Rose Decumbry]

She hadn’t meant to be cold. Bitchy and cold. Tonight, was not her night. Of course she wasn’t disgusted with Phoenix, shocked and unprepared. Which bought about coldness, her defense. She had just gotten used to anything anymore. It’d take forever to now. Because that was all they had no. Eternity. All three of them. Forever. Now death couldn’t part them, all of them would live forever, except Inora. How fair was that? She normally would have rubbed her hands along her forehead, showing how stressed and alien she was. But not now. She’d ‘violate the rules’ by stripping her mask off. “Forgive me if I seem…cold..and bitchy,” She clenched and re clenched her hands. “Me and Tyson are over. I am not letting it ruin my night. Sorry for the coldness only the Queen usually emits.” She shot the hint at Aubrey, rolling her hues somewhat. There. She had said it, why she wasn’t feeling up to attending these things at the moment. Right now she wanted to go home to her mansion and just sleep.

Or mope.

"Fine..." Rose sighed, seeing the hurt was set. Lovely. She already ruined someone else’s night when she hadn’t meant too. Damage done, and not erasable. Rose’s lips twitched a little bit, upset with the hurt she caused. What great, great, great cousin she was. “….That’s good.” Hurt indicated in Ali’s voice, might have meant that she struck deeper in Phoenix. Now that would be a scene to try and calm down. Maybe she just shouldn’t have come. Stayed home in London, and watched reruns of shows. Or searched deep in her closet for the moth covered outfits that used to be the style in her mortal days. But no. She had to come in here, dressed to impress, and get fucked over in a relationship. Breath Rose, breath. And that was what she did. Calm and serene. Something that would calm her from fighting with herself, and possibly saving her from throwing herself into a pit of fire sometimes. “I’m sorry I hurt you two..” She knew that now wasn’t the time for apologies.

But if not now, then when?

“Congratulations too..” She whispered to Phoenix. An honest statement, no matter how much she wasn’t fit with it. Phoenix was grown. And able to make her own decisions. Even if Rose didn’t approve, or fought it, Phoenix would do what she wanted. And same with Ali. She’d do whatever she wanted to do. And Rose would do whatever she wanted. Grown women did what they wanted. In fact, Rose was about to leave, and turned her head to, when she saw extremely beautiful blue sapphire eyes, covered by a magical mask and tuxedo. “Oh my..”

She needed to know his name, as he stood. Looking at the trio. She needed to know his name, ASAP. The man was beautiful, a vampire. And smelled like the sweet sap from honey. Roses and honey. “Oh my..” She whispered again, her mood now as chipper as it would be tonight. Tyson who? She needed to know who this man was. Eyes moving back to Ali, Victor, and Phoenix, her eyes sparkling now. “Who is he?” She said, eyes shooting back to him. Now she wished she’d dressed more dramatically, to catch his attention. He’d probably vacate to the girls who wore real colors, not a cream, or white like herself.

But she just had to have him. No matter what, she’d do to get to know his name. A distraction had come at the right time. In fact, all cold mood was gone, and a little bell laugh chimed. A smile hidden beneath her mask. Oh yes, who was he?

[*Phoenix McKenzie]

Phoenix was glad that Victor had managed to forgive her for what she had done, and even more elated that he had been given his own choice in what he had become this time. And she meant what she said, he and Ali were perfect for each other. She couldn't have wished for anyone better for two of her best friends. She was elated that they had managed to find each other, and that they wouldn't ever be placed with the same problems that had arisen with her and Tarus... If only he was still alive... They wouldn't have to worry about species difference anymore, and they would have had eternity together. She couldn't help but feel envious, maybe even a little jealous, of her two friends.

Movement caught her eye, moss green hues turning to look at where Rose, Aubrey, and two males were standing and talking. Aubrey walked away with her nose stuck up in the air like she was Queen Shit, making a comment back to Rose that she couldn't hear, though from the way Rose's body tensed, it couldn't have been good. Was she really going to have to start a fight with that bitch tonight and get thrown out of the Ball for being rude to one of her friends? Sevanni would not be too happy about that, since she had been the one to ask to come tonight.

When Rose walked over to her, had she been alive, her heart would have been pounding in anticipation, wondering how Rose would take to the news of her being a vampire... However, what came out of Rose's mouth shocked her more than anything else. Some things never grow old...But I guess species do. Her words cut through Phoenix, freezing her for a long minute. Rose's eyes held hers, looking at her with such disdain and coldness... It took Phoenix a minute to make sure that she had heard her friend right.

After the shock wore off, immediately behind it was anger and hurt, two things that never really mixed well with Phoenix. Her moss green eyes tinged with red around the iris, a low hiss pushing past her mouth, her fangs lengthening to press against her lip as she bared her teeth at Rose. She took a quick step forward, raising her right hand and smacking Rose hard across her face, her entire body shaking with her rage.

"How fucking dare you?" Her voice was low and venomous, her eyes slashing at Rose like daggers. "You have no idea of what I've been through these last few months. And for what? To protect YOU!" Her voice was no longer low, but steadily rising with her temper. "You and the rest of my friends! I was pregnant, did you know that? Just a few DAYS ago I had to give up my daughter to Kat and go back to Sevanni, since I'd been living with him as his 'guest' to keep everyone safe. Not only did he beat me, once again, with that FUCKING whip, but then he drugged me, turned me human against my will, and then turned me into THIS!" Her right hand flourished over her body, indicating all the obvious changes to anyone who had known her before. "And yet here you come, looking at me like I'm beneath you, like I fucking chose this? I thought you knew me better than that. So you know what Rose? FUCK YOU!"

And with that, Phoenix marched away from the three of her friends, not even listening to the rest that Rose had to say. She passed by the fountain marked 'human' and took a glass before walking out the doors to the garden, anger coursing through her body with such intensity that she had to fight to keep control of herself. She was hot headed anyway, and being a new born did not help her case any, and she needed the night air to calm her down. Angry tears filled her eyes, but she forced herself to blink them away, refusing to cry because of her friend's harsh words and assumption. Rose, above all people, knew how much Phoenix enjoyed being a wolf... How could she possibly even entertain the idea that Phoenix would willingly give that up? And the coldness in her eyes... That in itself had hurt almost as bad as Rose's words.

She knew Aubrey and the two males who she was with were out here as well, but she rightly didn't give a flying fuck. Aubrey could stay away from her, and she wouldn't even look over her way. She put her glass up to her lips and took a long drink, fighting to keep herself under control. She had been under far too much stress lately, and Rosey's comment had cut her deeply, especially since she was being a cold heartless bitch not only towards her, but towards Ali, when Ali had done nothing. And Ali was such a tender hearted woman that even the smallest insult could hurt her feelings, when it came from someone she was close to.

She ran her fingers through her long blond hair, looking out over the gardens and away from everyone back in the building. She didn't want to speak to anyone back there. She felt like Rose had backed her into a corner, and now all walls and defenses were up, making her even more hot tempered and dangerous. Maybe coming here was a bad idea after all. Sevanni hadn't wanted to come, but her and Damien had asked him to go. She wondered if he was silently laughing at what had happened in there? If he was pleased at Rose's reaction to what she had become? Was he reveling in the fact that, once again, she was in emotional pain?

Word count1000 words even ^_^