Blueray wraps her arms around Lorne clinging to his back like some immature child, while her tail wagged with her fun making.
Joah grins at Lorne and Blue, fully expecting him to topple. "Larissa!" she smiles and runs to hug her friend, planting several kisses on her cheeks.
Larissa smiles to Joah, kissing her cheek as she stands behind her, watching blueray with mild amusement
Kytara ruffles Lorne's wings playfully. Larissa Starostin smiles to the horned lady politely. Kytara: "Heh. Couldn't resist."
Kytara smiles to Larissa, "Hey, its been a while. You look great."
Blueray looks at Larissa from over Lorne's shoulder, "Weren't you pregnant"?
Larissa tilts a head, slowly reading the memories the sight of her brings. "Kytara." she smiles "Thank you"
Lorne looks up to Larissa, eyevoids pausing "...and dead?"
Joah steps back, beside Larissa. She begins to stroke and twirl Larissa's hair absentmindedly. "Go easy," she says gently to Blue and Kytara. "She doesn't remember everything yet."
Kytara Dagger: "Ahhh I see."
Larissa looks to him, and blue. "My child is well, thank you"
Blueray pouts slightly, "When did you birth"?
Kytara: "Blue! Gosh! This isn't 20 questions."
Joah turns toward Lorne, speaking slowly. "She paid a price. Pontifex . . . negotiated an exchange."
Blueray sticks her tongue out again, she was in the process of gathering information.
Kytara sticks her tongue back out at Blue in return. "Be nice."
Lorne nods slowly at Joah's words, watching Larissa as though seeing a memory not someone before Him.
Larissa swallows, as her eyes refocus after scanning Lorne for a while, slowly speaking. "You called me apprentice." she pauses "And you are called Harlequin"
Kytara: "Not... Polite... to stare!!" she chuckled, trying to tug at Blue's tail again.
Blueray tilts her head in confusion, "Oh"? Nope she didn't get it, she was waiting for an answer too.
Lorne Harlequin nods to Larissa, creasing His brow, and turning slightly towards the behind Him, looking back to Larissa "Is there something on My back?"
Lorne turns to give Larissa a better view, looking over His shoulder at her, then looking around, asking Kytara "Where did Blue go?"
Blueray Darkes stiffles a giggle
Kytara giggles, pointing,"She's on yer back, Lorne."
Larissa turns to Joah. "Exchange?"
Blueray mumbles, "Least I aint on my back".
Joah frowns at Lorne's seeming indifference to the angel in front of him. "Sir . . . " she begins, then stops, remembering he is no longer Omegan. She turns to Larissa, stroking her arm gently and takes her hand into hers. "You died, dear heart. Pontifex . . . talked to the Ferryman."
Larissa Starostin takes a step back.
Kytara's smile faded as she saw Larissa step back. She wondered if this would be a good time to exit. She was concerned about what was going on with Pieter. She gives a small wave and begins to wander off, her tail swishing side to side as she walked away.
Lorne freezes, raising an eyebrow at Kytara, then whips back around to face Larissa "You are correct, Larissa. I went to you after you were gone...I...put your remains away..." A shadow of somberness crosses His face
Blueray drops off Lorne's back to scuttle after Kyt, personally she wanted to stay but if her sister got caught "spying" on Pieter he wasn't going to be a happy vampire.
Larissa nods slowly, stepping closer and raising a hand.
Lorne looks to the hand, curious at her intent
Joah stands, silently watching, mesmerized by the soft glow surrounding Larissa.
Larissa strokes his face, barely touching him, even if all there, rather like a breeze. She looks him in the eyevoids as she does and whispers barely audibly. "Thank you"
Lorne's expression seems to soften to something less guarded as He feels her hand. The corners of His mouth droop further, and at the corner of an eyevoid a liquid bead of brilliant light draws out at the base of His lashes
Larissa reaches for the tear, looking at it in wonder, as it flows down on her finger. She breathes quietly, just watching. She whispers to him with the gentlest kindness. "You are my love and will always be."
Joah Menjou watches, amazed at the lightfilled tear tracing down Larissa's hand. She feels her throat tighten in sadness, while at the same time she wonders what a collected demon's tear might bring forth in her hands.
Lorne Harlequin inclines His head, letting out a breath, abrupt like it's been held, and almost choked. He reaches up, looking down slightly to the hand His raises to whipe the rest of the tear away, and clears His throat, regaining some composure. He looks somewhat in Joah's direction, saying very quietly "You will thank Pontifex for Me, won't you?"
Lorne draws a breath more swiftly through His nose, sounding suddenly collected "Good." He looks up to Larissa, His smile somewhat soft "I am glad to see you well."
Joah shifts a bit from foot to foot and quirks her head towards the roofline of the diner, as if hearing something. "Excuse me," she murmurs as she slowly steps away.
Larissa takes a step back, swallowing as she tastes his tear, slowly lowering her hand to her chest. She stands still for a while, slowly closing her eyes and opening again as she looks after Joah.
Lorne looks over His shoulder to follow Joah, eyevoids pausing over Blue, and continuing to the roof, squinting.
Blueray tugs out a bundle of cloth, rummages around in it and pulls out a finger she starts gnawing on. Puts the bundle away again.
Larissa stands very still and just glowing, drinking in all memories that slowly return to her.
Lorne looks back to Larissa, gaze again pausing on Blue, creasing His brow at the sight of a finger being nibbled, looking then the rest of the way to Larissa. He sighs, giving barely a smile, and wan "I suppose I shall be seeing you."
Blueray glances over at the nearby vampire, she gnawed on the finger until she had eaten it fully. She promptly dug out another one, to start gnawing all over again.
Larissa Starostin smiles just very slightly and nods. "Be well"
Lorne has said something to the nature of good bye, but stays standing before Larissa, seemingly lost to a thought. Slowly, His gaze drops, ending at her toes, and He takes a step back. He takes another step back, and turns, gradually walking away
Larissa watches him leave and nods, finally whole again.
Monday, 26 May 2008
Sunday, 25 May 2008
Wires
Larissa, still glowing fully steps out of the library, looking down at a girl equipped with chains as weapons. She smiles to her, watching curiously.
Talulah spins around quickly, "Wha...." she blinks at the sight she finds.
Larissa nods slowly and whispers a melodious, but uncertain hello.
Talulah rubs her eyes a moment, "B... booklady?"
Larissa watches Talulah and takes a step closer, reaching a hand, barely touching Talulah's forehead, sending a soft tingle. "Your name is Talulah."
Talulah winces at first, afraid. Her features soften shortly thereafter, "Y...yes... I am."
Larissa strokes her face with a glowing hand and smiles, looking at her chains and wires.
Talulah Bancroft stares at the glowing lady's eyes, wrought with confusion.
Larissa Starostin watches her intently, visibly not yet recognising, but somehow familiar. She looks deep into her eyes and deeper, searching how she feels and softly inquiring about her general wellbeing with the gaze. Talulah’s eyes grow sad, slightly painful in nature. She traces a finger across the wire bore into her skin and across her heart. She passes a thought through her mind as to whether they are present to keep something in or out.
Larissa takes a step forward and holds Talulah's face now with both hands with a sad warmness, leaning closer to kiss her forehead with a gentle breeze of a feeling. "You have a great heart. Do not chain it down. Dare to feel."
Talulah whispers weakly as her cheeks grow warm, "I have... it bit me...." a solemn tear rolls down her cheek leaving a cool trail behind it, "Twice."
Larissa smiles and takes a very deep breath, blowing a breeze of soothing coolness over her face, and reaching for the tear, which shimmers and bursts into silvery sparkles by the touch. "Restrains wont help you with dealing with it"
Talulah closes her eyes tightly, inhailing sharply as she had almost forgotten to breathe at all. "I'm not sure I want to. Better to be ignorantly happy than to be miserably missing someone..."
Talulah lets down her hair in an attempt to hide her face.
Larissa hugs Talulah, her touch barely felt, just a warm glow embracing her, whispering into her ear "Let it just shine."
Talulah's arms fall limp beside her as she can just barely be heard crying a brief moment.
Larissa nods and holds her, very knowingly.
Talulah clears her throat, her posture straightening back up. She looks up to Larissa. Her eyes look slightly more releaved than before. Larissa strokes her face again, and gently takes a step back. Larissa squezzes her hand as she lets her go, still searching her eye, and nodding with a simple "Be well."
Talulah nods thankfully, "Better atleast..." Talulah pulls the sticks from her hair, placing it back into a loose bun. Larissa Starostin smiles to her encouragingly and blows a bit of white glow over her heart, before parting. Talulah stares down at her chest as Larissa walks away.
Friday, 23 May 2008
Realising mortality
Miho draws a cigarette from her arm band and pulls a match from her case. Lorne Harlequin steps near to the step of the church, looking more to the street than where He's going. Stopping, to Miho, He says distantly
"There were papers to fill out?"
He looks up slowly "Or has someone already claimed the body?"
Miho shakes her head. "No papers have been filled out. She's still in my fridge" She grunts a bit pushing herself up. She looks up to him resting her cigarette between her lips.
"Omega, right?"
Lorne watches with eyevoids slackened to some degree, and lips parted slightly. He shakes His head after a moment "I am no longer of that organization."
Miho's blues peek up through her red bangs curiously. Narrowing her eyes she takes another drag of her catnip cigarette before asking.
"So what relation is the deceased to you?"
Lorne's eyelids move as if to suggest lenses turning over her face, observing the act of drawing and exhaling smoke from a paper straw.
"...I was the father of the child she died giving birth to"
Miho nods as she lifts her hand and gestures him to follow.
"I hope you have some way of transporting her. Mothers shouldn't be dragged through the streets"
Lorne follows along, footsteps each leaving a lingering echo. He watches the ground, stopping when she does. Miho crouches down and pulls a metal bead necklace from around her neck. picking a short key to unlock the file cabinet. she flips through the files stopping at O. Pulling out a manilla folder she flips it open.
"Alright..Larissa is all I have...what's her last name?"
Miho grasps a pen from the desk and clicks the bottom as she listens while writing the date and time. Lorne looks up to her face, and then the clipboard
"Starostin."
Miho nods writing down her last name. Miho mutters to herself. "S...t...a...." as she walks back to the morgue. Miho takes a knee as she reads the label on the cabinet door. She nods as she uses another key on the chain to unlock the drawer.
"Do you have a date of birth for her? So i can mark it on the certificate?"
Lorne steps to a stop, watching the drawers, eyevoids slightly wider. The question draws His face a fraction of an inch towards her, pausing.
"...I don't believe I've thought to ask anyone's birthday in..." He trails off, looking up to an angle, eventually responding "I am sorry. I don't know her birthday."
Miho sighs softly as she moves on down the certificate, signing her name with a bit of hesitation. Miho's gaze lifts off the sheet of paper to him.
"Was it a boy or a girl?"
Lorne seems to be a moment in realizing the question was for Him. He turns to look at her "I have only daughters."
Miho nods as she pulls the paper from her file and hands it to him. "This is her death certificate...since i wasn't here for the birth I can give you no birth certificate for the girl"
Lorne Harlequin reaches out after a moment to accept the paper, bringing it closer...staring at it...one part curiousity, and another part melancholy. After a moment, He shakes His head, beginning in a false start, then more definate side to side, and back to staring at the paper "It is well. We...I'm sure the appropriate documentation can be arranged somehow"
Miho nods eyeing him curiously. "You alright?" she questions as she flicks her cigarette on the floor and stomps it out with her boot. She looks at him for an answer as she reaches for her latex gloves. Lorne’s lips part as if to answer the question, eyevoids still turned to the certificate. He crosses His arms, with a rustle of the paper, looking up with an expression more collected, and a nod.
"I'm fine, thank you. Do you require anything of an official capacity? Identification of the body for records. That kind of thing?"
Miho nods as she pulls on the drawer, she steps between the drawer door and the cabinet, pushing on the back side as she draws it out fully, a black body bag laying inside.
"I need an official ID but i'm sure it's her..."
Miho kneels on the drawer and pulls open the zipper, drawing back the plastic flap exposing her face but keeping her modesty. Miho gazes up to him as she stands back giving him room to view her.
Lorne steps slowly--tentatively towards the drawer, and beside it. As the zipper parts the bag, He tilts His head to parallel her, eye to eyevoid, and a different expression crosses His face like a drop in a pool of water. Staring down on Larissa's vacant aspect, still as the grave Himself. He reaches a hand out to place His palm upon her forhead, pushing the palm gently over her hairline. Abruptly, He breathes in, something choked back as He nods.
Miho gnaws a bit on her bottom lip as she nods. Taking a deep breath she speaks.
"You know....mothers who die in child birth are said to become angels" she smiles softly as she grooms Larissa's hair neatly before zipping it back up. She steps back away from the dresser and gives him an approving nod.
"She must have loved you alot to give her life for your daughter"
Lorne breathes back another something, withdrawing His hand, and looking up to Miho. A touch of apprehension crosses under His blank face, then is gone with blank words "She loved so greatly she could not bear the pain. I can only confirm that she would be ideal for the post of envoy to..." a touch of distaste goes over His face briefly "YHWY...and a cruel duty returning to that agony from the peace of elysian fields."
Miho nods softly as she rests her hands on either side of the cabinet.
"I didn't know her well...but I pray you're right. Please give her a proper burial...these drawers aren't fit for mothers" Miho passes him the clipboard and a black pen.
"Sign at the bottom and she's all yours"
Lorne watches Miho another while before nodding once, twice. Finding the pen and clipboard with His hands, He looks down and draws a series of something akin to cuneform, capping the pen, placing it in the clip of the board, and holding it out again to Miho, turning His eyevoids to the bag. Miho looks at the signature and gapes a bit in surprise.
"Umm....i'm sure someone will figure it out" she smiles comfortingly. Lorne nods, stepping against the drawer, placing a hand over Larissa's forehead through bag. His lips begin mouthing something, and He draws His thumb over where her lower lip is, still through the bag. Reaching up, He kisses His thumbnail and finger, placing His hand again on her forehead. A light harmony of several voices drifts somberly up from the floor, quietly, and the bag seems to deflate.
Someone enters but leaves soon. "Oh dear. I seem to have over-slept. Sorry to intrude."
Miho steps back in surprise, holding the clipboard up to her chest defensively. Lorne takes a breath, deep, as though He had been forgetting to, and the harmony drifts back to the buzz of the morgue lights. He looks up to the one that came and left, then looks back to Miho. Looking to the bag and back to her "I took it all. There's naught left of her, so please keep the bag." Miho nods quickly as she pants a bit. "Umm..yeah...." she looks at him in complete shock. "That was pretty cool"
Another one enters "Hi Miho."
Miho waves to the kitty. "Hey Ardra. How are you?"
Lorne cocks His head, looking sidelong, and blinking in curiousity. He turns to regard the new arrived feline woman, nodding.
"Hello. Names Ardra"
Lorne turns to face her more completely, hands steepled behind Him. He bows His head "A fine evening to you. I am Lorne."
Ardra smiles and purrs softly "Its a pleasure to meet you Mr. Lorne"
Miho rests her clipboard on her lap, her arms folded over her. "Well..if that's all..." she looks down still amazed at the empty body bag. "Did you have any questions or need anything concerning her?" Lorne mouths the words 'Mr. Lorne', silently, and turns to Miho, smiling cordially "I believe that should be all. Thank you for your diligence, and your kind words."
Miho puts her hand up as she smiles.
"Of course...come back if you need anything for the baby"
The newcomer kitty purrs wildly. "Well, I just wanted to stop by and say Hi Miho"
Lorne accepts the hand, shaking, and thinking for a moment.
"I don't believe she shall need anything, but I will keep that in mind. A bid you a grand evening."
He turns, and steps away, again watching the ground.
Miho waves as her hip nudges the door closed. "Be well"
"There were papers to fill out?"
He looks up slowly "Or has someone already claimed the body?"
Miho shakes her head. "No papers have been filled out. She's still in my fridge" She grunts a bit pushing herself up. She looks up to him resting her cigarette between her lips.
"Omega, right?"
Lorne watches with eyevoids slackened to some degree, and lips parted slightly. He shakes His head after a moment "I am no longer of that organization."
Miho's blues peek up through her red bangs curiously. Narrowing her eyes she takes another drag of her catnip cigarette before asking.
"So what relation is the deceased to you?"
Lorne's eyelids move as if to suggest lenses turning over her face, observing the act of drawing and exhaling smoke from a paper straw.
"...I was the father of the child she died giving birth to"
Miho nods as she lifts her hand and gestures him to follow.
"I hope you have some way of transporting her. Mothers shouldn't be dragged through the streets"
Lorne follows along, footsteps each leaving a lingering echo. He watches the ground, stopping when she does. Miho crouches down and pulls a metal bead necklace from around her neck. picking a short key to unlock the file cabinet. she flips through the files stopping at O. Pulling out a manilla folder she flips it open.
"Alright..Larissa is all I have...what's her last name?"
Miho grasps a pen from the desk and clicks the bottom as she listens while writing the date and time. Lorne looks up to her face, and then the clipboard
"Starostin."
Miho nods writing down her last name. Miho mutters to herself. "S...t...a...." as she walks back to the morgue. Miho takes a knee as she reads the label on the cabinet door. She nods as she uses another key on the chain to unlock the drawer.
"Do you have a date of birth for her? So i can mark it on the certificate?"
Lorne steps to a stop, watching the drawers, eyevoids slightly wider. The question draws His face a fraction of an inch towards her, pausing.
"...I don't believe I've thought to ask anyone's birthday in..." He trails off, looking up to an angle, eventually responding "I am sorry. I don't know her birthday."
Miho sighs softly as she moves on down the certificate, signing her name with a bit of hesitation. Miho's gaze lifts off the sheet of paper to him.
"Was it a boy or a girl?"
Lorne seems to be a moment in realizing the question was for Him. He turns to look at her "I have only daughters."
Miho nods as she pulls the paper from her file and hands it to him. "This is her death certificate...since i wasn't here for the birth I can give you no birth certificate for the girl"
Lorne Harlequin reaches out after a moment to accept the paper, bringing it closer...staring at it...one part curiousity, and another part melancholy. After a moment, He shakes His head, beginning in a false start, then more definate side to side, and back to staring at the paper "It is well. We...I'm sure the appropriate documentation can be arranged somehow"
Miho nods eyeing him curiously. "You alright?" she questions as she flicks her cigarette on the floor and stomps it out with her boot. She looks at him for an answer as she reaches for her latex gloves. Lorne’s lips part as if to answer the question, eyevoids still turned to the certificate. He crosses His arms, with a rustle of the paper, looking up with an expression more collected, and a nod.
"I'm fine, thank you. Do you require anything of an official capacity? Identification of the body for records. That kind of thing?"
Miho nods as she pulls on the drawer, she steps between the drawer door and the cabinet, pushing on the back side as she draws it out fully, a black body bag laying inside.
"I need an official ID but i'm sure it's her..."
Miho kneels on the drawer and pulls open the zipper, drawing back the plastic flap exposing her face but keeping her modesty. Miho gazes up to him as she stands back giving him room to view her.
Lorne steps slowly--tentatively towards the drawer, and beside it. As the zipper parts the bag, He tilts His head to parallel her, eye to eyevoid, and a different expression crosses His face like a drop in a pool of water. Staring down on Larissa's vacant aspect, still as the grave Himself. He reaches a hand out to place His palm upon her forhead, pushing the palm gently over her hairline. Abruptly, He breathes in, something choked back as He nods.
Miho gnaws a bit on her bottom lip as she nods. Taking a deep breath she speaks.
"You know....mothers who die in child birth are said to become angels" she smiles softly as she grooms Larissa's hair neatly before zipping it back up. She steps back away from the dresser and gives him an approving nod.
"She must have loved you alot to give her life for your daughter"
Lorne breathes back another something, withdrawing His hand, and looking up to Miho. A touch of apprehension crosses under His blank face, then is gone with blank words "She loved so greatly she could not bear the pain. I can only confirm that she would be ideal for the post of envoy to..." a touch of distaste goes over His face briefly "YHWY...and a cruel duty returning to that agony from the peace of elysian fields."
Miho nods softly as she rests her hands on either side of the cabinet.
"I didn't know her well...but I pray you're right. Please give her a proper burial...these drawers aren't fit for mothers" Miho passes him the clipboard and a black pen.
"Sign at the bottom and she's all yours"
Lorne watches Miho another while before nodding once, twice. Finding the pen and clipboard with His hands, He looks down and draws a series of something akin to cuneform, capping the pen, placing it in the clip of the board, and holding it out again to Miho, turning His eyevoids to the bag. Miho looks at the signature and gapes a bit in surprise.
"Umm....i'm sure someone will figure it out" she smiles comfortingly. Lorne nods, stepping against the drawer, placing a hand over Larissa's forehead through bag. His lips begin mouthing something, and He draws His thumb over where her lower lip is, still through the bag. Reaching up, He kisses His thumbnail and finger, placing His hand again on her forehead. A light harmony of several voices drifts somberly up from the floor, quietly, and the bag seems to deflate.
Someone enters but leaves soon. "Oh dear. I seem to have over-slept. Sorry to intrude."
Miho steps back in surprise, holding the clipboard up to her chest defensively. Lorne takes a breath, deep, as though He had been forgetting to, and the harmony drifts back to the buzz of the morgue lights. He looks up to the one that came and left, then looks back to Miho. Looking to the bag and back to her "I took it all. There's naught left of her, so please keep the bag." Miho nods quickly as she pants a bit. "Umm..yeah...." she looks at him in complete shock. "That was pretty cool"
Another one enters "Hi Miho."
Miho waves to the kitty. "Hey Ardra. How are you?"
Lorne cocks His head, looking sidelong, and blinking in curiousity. He turns to regard the new arrived feline woman, nodding.
"Hello. Names Ardra"
Lorne turns to face her more completely, hands steepled behind Him. He bows His head "A fine evening to you. I am Lorne."
Ardra smiles and purrs softly "Its a pleasure to meet you Mr. Lorne"
Miho rests her clipboard on her lap, her arms folded over her. "Well..if that's all..." she looks down still amazed at the empty body bag. "Did you have any questions or need anything concerning her?" Lorne mouths the words 'Mr. Lorne', silently, and turns to Miho, smiling cordially "I believe that should be all. Thank you for your diligence, and your kind words."
Miho puts her hand up as she smiles.
"Of course...come back if you need anything for the baby"
The newcomer kitty purrs wildly. "Well, I just wanted to stop by and say Hi Miho"
Lorne accepts the hand, shaking, and thinking for a moment.
"I don't believe she shall need anything, but I will keep that in mind. A bid you a grand evening."
He turns, and steps away, again watching the ground.
Miho waves as her hip nudges the door closed. "Be well"
Tuesday, 20 May 2008
Economics
Nareth approaches the library from the docks, and finds Pontifex standing on the steps leading inside. Nareth pauses in the street, uncertain.
Pontifex Janus smiles, and he says "How are you, Miss?"
Nareth: Sir...
Pontifex Janus: Your sleep...how was it?
Larissa Starostin walks out the door, as if drawn, and stops, blinking.
Nareth: My sleep was...deep.
Nareth glances past Pontifex to Larissa, surprised at how rapidly her pregnancy has advanced.
Nareth: But...I should not be here.
Nareth takes a single step nearer the library....
Pontifex smirks, "And where should you be?"
Nareth: I should be...in the sea.
Larissa smiles to Nareth, reaching out to her with both hands.
Pontifex frowns thinly, "The sea can wait.."
Nareth does not take Larissa's hands.
Nareth asks, "Larissa...You are...well?" and then she glances nervously to the sidewalk.
Larissa nods and lets her hands fall to her sides, but steps closer. "Nareth. I got your...message. Thank you"
Nareth: My message...oh. Yes. It was...all I had to give.
Larissa nods and bites her lower lip. "I hope you are well, too"
Nareth: I am...I am here...and now.
Nareth walks up the steps alone, stepping past Pontifex and Larissa, into the library. Inside, she spies Omega, Denenthorn, the wraith Dimentox, and several others.
Nareth (looking about the library): I feel like I have not been here in ages.
Nareth: Sire...
When Omega doesn't respond, Nareth lingers a moment near a table strewn with books...
Larissa walks in behind Nareth, and sways slightly. "You look strong, Nareth." Pontifex enters after Larissa.
Nareth: I am strong, Larissa.
Nareth shuffles nervously from foot to foot...then takes her usual on the sofa near the windows.
Dimentox: Omega...This is gettng shitasticly Hard for me...and not in the good hard way.
Nareth glances around, first at her Sire, than Dimentox, then Larissa.
Larissa Starostin tilts a head and holds her swollen belly, wincing just very slightly. "I guess I should sit down."
Nareth keeps her gaze on Larissa as she takes a seat in one of the chairs.
Larissa lowers her eyelashes as Nareth watches. "I am not so strong, Nareth. I thought I was..."
Nareth turns towards Larissa.
Nareth (to Pontifex): Sir...
Nareth: Will you please keep a close eye on me.
Dimentox Travanti *fades* from the library.
Denenthorn turns and nods to Omega "I think it is time..."
Larissa: Nareth. Do you still sleep in the sea?
Nareth: Yes...Larissa. I sleep in the sea. I sleep deep in the sea.
Omega: Dimentox's ashes are in the graveyard. I suggest it'd be adventageous if we find them first. Anyone?
Larissa Starostin nods and watches the fire.
Nareth (to Omega): You mean to ressurect him?
Denenthorn and Omega exit the library, on their way to the graveyard. Omega does not answer Nareth's question. Pontifex is now standing between Nareth and Larissa.
Nareth (to Pontifex): Sir...you will keep *both* eyes on me?
Larissa Starostin shrugs, too lazy to get up.
[[ Something feels Just wrong.. As if an ancient evil Is gathering its strength... You might even percieve a image of blood flowing through the streets of the city, Soldiers marching to the beat of a mad man.....]]
Nareth flares her nostrils, looking out the window at the street towards the haven.
Nareth: What rough beast, eh?
Pontifex Janus looks over, shaking his head, chuckling "I think you're the first woman who ever asked me that."
Larissa tilts her head to Nareth and the shivers, as "Something feels just wrong", but it dissolves soon as she laughs at Pontifex's response.
Nareth (turning back towards Pontifex and Lar): Perhaps so, Sir.
Nareth gazes past Pontifex to Larissa.
Nareth (half to herself): Its hour come round at last...again. Again, and again...
Pontifex Janus: I keep a figurative eye on you...I try not to keep the other ones from being fixation, least to curb temptation.
Larissa returns Nareth's gaze. "Do you fear you might hurt me? Do you have an urge for it you have to fight it so?"
Nareth laughs softly, darkly.
Nareth: Larissa, I am...an abomination. Nothing is safe near me. It is not an issue of my will. I have no...will.
Pontifex does fix his eyes on Nareth, "I am not afraid"
Nareth: No...Sir. You would not be. But...I hope Larissa is.
Nareth glances towards the fireplace and whispers urgently to herself, "Do not speak. Be silent, and do not speak."
Pontifex: Is something the matter, Miss?
Nareth (to Pontifex): No, Sir. Nothing is wrong. Nothing... (then to Lar) Accept my apology, Larissa. I say things I should not.
Larissa swallows "I love you, Nareth. It is one of the things I am most afraid of. I am not afraid of you."
Nareth visibly flinches at Larissa's statement.
Nareth: Love...me? No.
Larissa closes her eyes.
Nareth: Nothing will love me. Nothing *should*.
Pontifex chuckles, "Oh come now, have you read the Karma Sutra?"
Nareth: I have, Sir. Long ago.
Pontifex nods, "Then should I remind you, it described four kinds of love?"
Nareth closes her eyelids and whispers, "Four..."
Pontifex Janus nods, "One of which is familiarity..."
You: We are *that*, she and I. We *are* familiar.
Pontifex: See...so she *can* love you, just might not be the kind you were thinking of.
Larissa bites her lower lips again, shifting in the chair.
Nareth: That was...an error...on my part, Sir.
Pontifex nods turning to Lars.
Larissa: Pontifex, could you sit down, please?
Pontifex frowns, "And ruin my namesake as a pillar?"
Nareth opens her eyelids again, revealing her red eyevoids.
Larissa: Nareth is exactly aware of my feelings.
Nareth: I have asked him to stand between us, Larissa. He is guarding you from me.
Pontifex nods, "I love you both"
Nareth: That word. Must we use it so freely?
Pontifex chuckles
Pontifex: It does cheapen it...
Nareth: It has value?
Larissa covers her face with her hand. "It should."
[[Suddenly, the reapers appear in the graveyard. But its strange. They can no longer harm the citizens.]]
Nareth snaps the fingers of her left hand.
Pontifex: Oh indeed, one of the most valuable things...
Nareth: I cannot reckon the value of a thing I cannot feel.
Pontifex Janus: Ultima ratio regum.
Nareth: It is not my intention to cause you discomfort or sorrow, Lar. I should not have come here. It was a weakness.
Pontifex: People will die for love....nothing has more value
Nareth: People will die for money, for lust, for power...People will simply die.
Pontifex nods.
Pontifex: Did not say it was alone in that value, just that nothing can be more valuable than that which costs your own life.
Nareth laughs again.
Nareth: I would say life is quite cheap. Without a cent in my purse, have I purchased it time and time again.
Pontifex Janus: Life like most things are often bought at a discount. Nature of trade.
Larissa looks up. "Pontifex, *please*. Sit down."
Pontifex turns sharply to Lar, "No."
Nareth (to Pontifex): Oh, so we dance for economics tonight?
Larissa leans forward. "Oh, indeed when we speak of others."
Pontifex Janus chuckles, "I guess we do..."
Nareth: Well...then.
Pontifex: Sex, Love, Violence, Power, and Trade... what's the difference?
Nareth: None. None at all.
Larissa flinches and clenches her fist.
Nareth: Larissa... Would you wish me to leave? I would.
Larissa shakes her head. "I *wish* Pontifex would sit down"
Nareth: I have asked him to stand there, Larissa. He keeps you safe. I am keeping my promise...
Larissa groans. "Oh, I am quite safe, dont worry. Everybody is making sure I am safe."
Pontifex: You are with child, in accordance with the prophecy.
Larissa perks an eyebrow. "Oh, we have a prophecy too?"
Nareth (skeptically): First I've heard of it.
Larissa shifts and holds her belly, wincing.
Pontifex chuckles, "No, no...but it does add a dramatic ring to it. Does it not?"
Nareth laughs, a bit too loudly.
Larissa stares at Pontifex. "Oh, wouldn't be you, would it" Then she sighs, breathing heavily, and glares down at her belly. "Damn, I just want her to get out."
Nareth stares at her own gloved hands.
Pontifex (to Lar): Dont worry, soon she'll be ready to claw her way out. I've helped with two demonic children now...
Nareth cocks her head to one side, watching Larissa.
Larissa winces. "Claw? Oh, my god"
Nareth (furrowing her brow): Will it be like that, Sir? Will it really?
Larissa closes her eyes and leans back.
Pontifex: Denny's ex-wife and Hycanthian, both had demon children...and yes, the pregnancies are hell.
Nareth: So to speak?
Pontifex smirks.
Nareth slowly rises from the sofa.
Pontifex: Let me guess, I just volunteered myself to help bring a third into the world?
Larissa lets a tear flow freely. "Well there must be something after the heaven of making them." She chuckles.
Nareth moves very cautiously, coming to stand at Pontifex's side, never taking her gaze off Lar.
Nareth (agitated): This is...impossible. I can't do this.
Pontifex looks over at her, "Hmm?"
Larissa looks up at Pontifex, wincing. "I dont think its time yet"
Nareth: She has changed, Sir. Larissa has changed. And the air is filled with her. I taste it everywhere....
Pontifex (to Nareth): I sense you're saying this as it was a bad thing?
Nareth: Only in that I have promised I will bring no harm to her.
Pontifex: And you wont..
Nareth: The human stink of her...makes me...
Larissa sighs, frowning... "Well, at least I didnt *think* it's time Maybe I was mistaken."
Nareth glances anxiously to Pontifex.
Larissa looks up to Nareth.
Nareth: Would you...kill...me, Sir, if need be?
Pontifex looks over to Nareth again, "You'll be fine, you're with me"
Nareth: But could you?
Pontifex: Don't take this the wrong way, but yes.
Nareth (nodding): I take it literally, and no other way.
A demon, Lieba Rabeni, enters the library and nods to Pontifex. "Hey, tall dark and red one."
Larissa groans deeply again, and she says, "I might need to lie down at the hospital."
Lieba: Well, I just popped into town. Thought I would stop by and say hello Poncho."
Pontifex nods to Lars, looking over to Lieba
Pontifex (to Lieba): Could you help her, please?
Nareth takes a step nearer Larissa...
Lieba: Whats wrong?
Pontifex puts his arm in front of Nareth, "You'll be alright.."
Larissa sighs. "I am fine"
For a moment, Nareth stands very still, and it almost seems as though some silent exchange passes between her and Larissa. Both their moods abruptly shift.
Nareth smiles...and she says, "Look at me, Lar. *Look* at me."
Pontifex (to Lieba): She's about to give birth..help her to the hospital.
Lieba: I have some healing abilities. It is not easy, but if I can help I will. Ummm, a baby. A human one?
Nareth (shaking her head, ignoring Lieba): I will help her, Pontifex.
Lieba: 'Rissa, let's go.
Nareth holds both her hands out to Larissa.
Larissa looks at Pontifex, reaching for Nareth.
Pontifex nods, pulling Nareth to him, kissing her cheek.
Pontifex (to Nareth): Don't fail me...
Lieba: Poncho, I will help as well.
Lieba pushes her demon urges down.
Nareth takes Larissa's hands, helping her to her feet.
Lieba: Sorry, it's just that me and human babies...but...
Larissa leans on Nareth, squeezing her hand and sighs. "Thank you"
Nareth (to Lar): I know now. Now I understand and...I smell...what's coming.
Pontifex looks over to Lieba, then to Nareth and Larissa, "Do you two need additional help?"
Nareth: You will please stay near, Sir. For now, at least.
Pontifex nods.
Lieba: A human is gonna give birth.
Larissa winces again, frowning. "God knows what I need."
Nareth: Tonight I do a thing I have never done before. Tonight I become a...midwife.
Lieba: Doesnt it just pop out?
Milie: Oh, wow.
Lieba: I have only seen them...umm...later.
Milie: I could make a soothing potion to help with that.
Nareth: Do you...trust me, Lar?
Larissa closes her eyes, absolutely not in the room for a couple of minutes, then opens them again.
Larissa nods. "I trust you, Nareth"
Nareth smiles more broadly, baring her long incisors.
Nareth: The child of Lorne...
Larissa winces
Lieba Rabeni: This is *Lorne's* child?
Nareth: Yes...this is Lorne's child.
Larissa looks up.
Lieba smiles, and she says, "Then it has my protection."
Nareth: We should go...to the hospital, Larissa. There is so little time remaining...
Larissa blows out some air. "Goddamn His."
Nareth: Just walk, Larissa. You have that strength in you. It's not far. Just hold my hand.
Lieba taps into her darkness and enters into Larissa's outer mind giving her some of her own strength to get to the hospital.
Nareth (to Lar): Think of...our day on the beach.
Nareth abruptly glances to the female demon (Lieba) and frowns.
Larissa nods to Nareth and finds some strength. "I am alright, except...when I am not"
Nareth (to Lieba): Do not interfere. She is in my care.
Lieba blinks, taken aback.
Nareth helps Larissa to the hospital, accompanied by Pontifex. Lieba follows. Nareth leads Lar to a bed.
Nareth: You need to lie down, Lar.
Nareth flares her nostrils, glancing to Pontifex, still smiling.
Nareth: Now...Sir. Our dance. It was... economics, yes?
[[The sky starts to get cloudy and the wind blows....]]
Pontifex Janus lifts a brow and smiles.
Nareth: So, what rough beast indeed.
Nareth (to Pontifex): Do you feel that?
[[ Lightning fills the air... As toxic rain starts to fall..]]
Larissa breathes heavily "What is happening?"
Pontifex: Shh... it's nothing, just the end of one demon and the beginning for another.
Larissa winces. "Oh, surely she needs to come out right now"
Nareth (to Lar): One day...this thing will be clear. But...for now, it is only another mystery.
Nareth leans close to Larissa.
Larissa gasps and squeezes the bed.
Nareth says, softly, "Take my hand, and holds out her right hand.
Nareth: Squeeze it. Hard.
Larissa Starostin breathes rapidly and looks at Nareth with wide eyes. "You...with me...now," and she reaches for Nareth's hand.
[[The wind starts to blow and the lighting crashes furiously....... The all of a sudden it is dead quiet.. The sky clears....]]
Nareth: Here and now, just like I promised. Larissa, now, I will *tell* you something, and you must *listen*.
Larissa looks at Nareth, her eyes filled with tears, and she nods.
Nareth: When I say this, you will know I am speaking the truth.
Nareth glances about for Pontifex, who is returning with a couple of pill bottles.
Larissa winces, swaying back and forth.
Nareth: Larissa, your child is coming into this realm, and it needs a sacrifice. A blood sacrifice.
Pontifex opens one of the bottles, pops a few in his mouth, waits a moment, then shrugs as he offers Larissa a few.
Larissa Starostin bites her lip and nods, confused. "I dont think I need pills," she says.
Nareth (gazing intently at Lar): I was born in the death throes of my mother. And your child shall be born the same way.
Larissa holds Nareth's hand and focuses on her, eyes locked.
Pontifex blinks, "Hmm...when Denny's son came in, it required the sacrifice of his soul....but yeah, that was different. What do you propose?"
Nareth gazes deep into Larissa's eyes.
Nareth (to Pontifex): It *will* kill her. It will kill her horribly when it enters this universe. I will do it far more cleanly. I shall not see her suffer.
Larissa nods very slowly.
Nareth: The end is the same, either way.
Pontifex sighs, "Yeah, that almost hapened to Hycanthian. I'm sure Lorne warned you about all this?"
Larissa starts to shiver, holding onto Nareth. "I can feel..." she sighs. "He gave me an elixir to be strong So that I live through while she grows."
Pontifex: Ah yes... an elixir...and after it's birthed?
Nareth: There is not much time...It is coming.
With her left hand, Nareth reaches into a pocket in her dress. She takes out a silver straight razor.
Larissa looks back at Nareth, her mouth trembling as she speaks. "You once had my heart beating in your hand. You *know* what you must do"
Nareth: Do you love me, Larissa?
Larissa nods without words, fearing they are cheap.
You (to Lar): Yes...I see. Then I give you the choice that my own mother had to make. Your life, or the child's?
Pontifex pulls out two silver coins...
Nareth: I can take either.
Larissa swallows. "Are you joking, Nareth?"
Nareth: No. I am not joking. We must be very clear on this.
Nareth folds open the straight razor she has taken from her dress.
Nareth (to Pontifex): Economics, Sir. The price of lives.
Pontifex holds out the silver coins and begins to pray
Larissa groans, squeezing Nareth's hand. "My life would be worth nothing if I take another chioce, Nareth. She will be called Abigail."
Nareth (nodding): Abigail...her father's joy.
Nareth: Then, it is decided.
Nareth leans forward and kisses Larissa.
Larissa Starostin swallows and gets very pale and quiet. "It is"
Nareth whispers, her voice harsh, unsteady, "I love you."
Larissa Starostin's tears flow freely and nods, unable speak.
Nareth (still whispering): I have no cause in me to lie.
Nareth (raising her voice a little): Go down knowing that, Larissa. And that I will watch over your daughter as I may.
Larissa clenches her teeth as her whole body shakes, holding onto the bed.
Nareth: No. Do not struggle. It will be fast. There will only be a little pain.
Pontifex smiles, rubbing the coins between his finges, "Don't worry... I've died...it's not to bad......"
Larissa kisses Nareth for the last time, before she pulls away.
With no farther warning, Nareth slashes out with the razor, neatly severing Larissa's carotid artery.
Nareth (looking down at Larissa, at the blood spurting from her throat): There...Sleep, love. Sleep.
Nareth reaches around Larissa, cradling her.
Larissa closes her eyes, squeezing them shut and opening them wide.
Pontifex places a coin on each of her eyelids, placing his fingers on her forehead and prays, "May you find peace in the dead lands, and when you see the old guy. Tell him Poncho says hi."
Nareth smiles softly, and whispers, "Fascinating. It...hurts me. Seeing this." She holds Larissa tightly.
Nareth: Sir...
Nareth stands up again, looking at the blood on her hands, folding the razor closed.
Pontifex Janus looks distracted for a moment then looks over, "Hmm, yes?"
Nareth: ...I have done this thing. I have truly *done* this fearful thing.
Pontifex nods, "Yes... yes, you did..."
Pontifex: Bringing a child into the world, with no mother, and the father isn't around....truly fearful.
Nareth: That is not what..I meant.
Pontifex: I'm sure you'll make a good mother. though.
Nareth: Me? No...
Pontifex: You're bringing a life into the world...surely you'll be responsible for it...she has no one else..
Nareth (muttering): Fuck me.
Pontifex Janus shakes his head, "Not tonight..."
Nareth: Sir, don't take this the wrong way, but for once, shut the hell up.
Pontifex smirks, and continues praying..
Nareth has begun to cry red tears.
Nareth: It's very dark here. I have never killed to *bring forth* a life. I do not know my way...
Pontifex Janus shakes his head.
Nareth leans forward again....
Lieba (looking into the room): How is the human baby doing? Poncho, did the human pop the baby out yet?
Nareth covers Larissa's belly with her right hand.
Pontifex (to Lieba): One moment please..
Nareth (shouting): Silkence!
Lieba glares at Nareth.
Nareth: I'm going to open a rift between worlds. A very small one.
Pontifex Janus stands back and motions to Lieba to go to the next room.
Lieba mumbles something about "killing a bitch."
Nareth reaches up and seems to part the flesh at the base of her throat, and a great pool of blackness spills out of her.
[[The feeeing of evil remains but some how peace falls upon Some of you... Who knows what time will tell But Somthing has definatly gone wrong... way wrong.]]
Nareth closes her eyelids...
Nareth: This shouldn't be so bloody hard.
Pontifex shrugs with a knowing smirk
Nareth (speaking into the roiling blackness that has emerged from her): Now....come through, if you're coming.
Nareth howls, a terrible, sorrowful sound.
Nareth: Get...out...of her. Now! *I* am the bridge. I am the labyrinth. I am your portal. She is the blood.
The blackness emerging from Nareth begins to swirl faster.
Nareth whispers, "Hello, Abigail."
And the blackness vanishes, retreating back into Nareth's body. Nareth is holding a new born child in her arms. There is a gaping wound where Larissa's belly was. Nareth leans forward and slices the umblicle cord with her teeth.
Nareth: Sir...the dance is over. The dance is just begun.
Pontifex shakes his head, "Only the song..."
Nareth kisses the child on the forehead and it begins to cry loudly.
Lieba hears the demon baby screams.
Nareth: Abigail...This is your mother. She gave her life that you would be born to this world. Do not hate her for that, ever. Don't you dare.
Nareth holds the child close to her breats, and steps away from Larissa's corpse.
Abigail screams like a jackal, but looks Nareth right in her eyevoids.
Lieba watches the scene and thinks that this vampire girl has no business holding a demon child.
Nareth (to herself): I cannot bear this weight...
Lieba: No one to protect her now.
Nareth (continuing): And yet, I know it is my weight now to bear.
Nareth (to Lieba): I will protect her.
Lieba: Vamp, let the demon baby go. You have no right to take it.
Nareth gazes down at the child, amazed at it. Nareth is still crying blood tears.
Nareth: You will not speak to me that way, demon.
Lieba Rabeni: I will speak to you how I choose, vamp.
Nareth: I made Larissa a promise. This is no business of yours.
Lieba: It is now
The child reaches for Nareth's face, smearing the blood, and it giggles.
Lieba: You are a rude bitch who needs to be taught a lesson in demon ways.
Nareth: The child belongs to Omega. As do I.
Lieba: Then I will suffer at the hands of Omega.
Nareth (to Pontifex): Sir, please. I *am* taking the child with me. Do not let her trying to interfere.
Lieba: You spoke to me as if I were nothing.
Nareth (to Pontifex): You know what Larissa wants. Wanted...
Lieb: I'm sure Lorne and Lady Omega would not approve of your tongue. Poncho, can take the baby. I will kill you.
Nareth: Pontifex!
Lieba Rabeni: No one speaks to me that way.
Nareth, moving almost too swiftly to be seen, moves through the hoispital to its entrance, but Pontifex and the demon Lieba are close behind her. Lieba has drawn her swords. Nareth stops just outside the hospital, Lieba blocking her way. Nareth looks furious and confused.
Pontifex: Lieba, I'll take care of her..
Lieba: Dont walk away, you bitch..
Pontifex: Lieba, put down your swords...
Lieba: No. She is a rude bitch, and I don't like her.
Nareth holds the child more tightly, gazing directly at Leiba.
[[The sun starts to rise very quickly.]]
Nareth: You would murder an unarmed woman holding a newborn child?
Lieba: Give the child to Poncho, and yes, I would kill an unarmed bitch like you.
Nareth glances at the sky, her white skin beginning to sear.
Nareth (to Pontifex): Sir, I am going to the sea, and the child is going with me. I am going *now*.
Lieba: No, you are not.
Pontifex: Lieba, stand down.... now. And Nareth, congrats on the adoption.
Lieba: She is a rude little bitch who needs to be taught a lesson in her tongue. A vamp raising a demon? Hell, no.
Nareth (hissing, to Lieba): Then you will teach me on a night I do *not* hold my dead beloved's newborn crying in my arms.
[[Clouds form, and the sun gets blocked behind the Toxic clouds...]]
Lieba Rabeni (seething, to Pontifex): Fine.
Moving very quickly, Nareth heads away from the hospital, traveling south. The child clutched to her chest. Her heart pounds loudly. Near the sea wall, she comes upon a Shadow, but the demon is only curious and makes no attempt to stop her. She reaches the beach and stands there a moment, gazing out across the water towards the derelict tanker ship. She looks back once, then enters the cold ocean. By the time Pontifex reaches the beack, Nareth and the child are nowhere to be seen. Soon, the demon, Leiba, arrives and stands with Pontifex.
Lieba Rabeni: I *will* kill her. She is as good as dead. Why did you let her take the demon baby? She should not have it. You better stay close to her, 'cause she wont return home one night...
Pontifex: I will...
Pontifex: I should go...
Lieba Rabeni: Me, too. Where *is* the baby?
Pontifex: Protected..
Lieba Rabeni glares out to sea and mutters, "She should be with her own kind..."
Pontifex Janus bows respectfully and fades into the shadows.
***
The wounded neko medic takes the kit and rests it on top of the shelves, tearing it open with her teeth as she twists her arm over, pulling apart the bloody gauze. She presses the gauze firmly against her arm as she reaches for sterile cloths, wiping down her wound. Her face twinges in pain from the burn of alcohol.
[[Clouds form and the sun gets blocked behind the Toxic clouds... ]]
She is called Miho, and holds her arms till as she pinches the skin together, making a weak attempt at matching the layers of dermis before she places adhesive paper stitches. She is not alone in the hospital room. She looks at the chart, seeing it blank. She looks at the girl a moment. Her fingers pressing against her neck for her pulse. She frowns letting out a heavy sigh feeling no pulse. she gazes down a bit recognizing the clothing. "Mmmm " she pulls up the shirt mid way and sees the still swollen belly.
She quickly presses down on her belly feeling for pressure but sensing none. she whispers to the recently deceased. "Where's your baby hon? " She gazes over to the door where she saw the group just leave with curiousity. Instead of running out she tends to her duties.
She walks out of the tent and pulls together some supplies. snapping on a pair of gloves she returns with a full bowl of sterile water, gauze, and a yellow envelope. She sits at the edge of the bed and pops open the large envelope. she gently pulls off the valuables from her neck wrists and hands. dropping her wallet, jewelry, papers, and any other items in her pockets or on her body. She hops up and runs out the tent a moment coming back with a large clear bag and a long black plastic tarp folded in her arms. she places the tarp down and shakes open the clear bag, untying her shoes she slides each one in. She slides off her socks and balls them together tossing them into the bag. she unbuttons her shirt and pulls the girl’s shoulders up off the bed, sliding the shirt off her body. she folds it up and places it carefully into the bag.
She unbuttons the maternity jeans and draws them down, removing her undergarments quickly she covers her with the hospital blanket to preserve modesty. She folds the remaining clothing into the bag and seals it up. she places it down and rests the envelope on top.
Miho sighs looking at the corpse with a sadness, seeing the trauma of birth. "Damn...I'm sorry I wasn't here to help you" she whispers as she dips a piece of gauze into the warm water and washes away reminents of blood and after birth off her skin.
Miho Dagger rinses along her skin and hair, making sure to cover every inch. Her eyes gazing sympathetically as she turns to the departed's items. "Mmmm i'll have to figure out where this goes huh?" she mumbles to herself. She turns just a second and draws ina metal gurney, unfolding the heavy black body back on top. she unzips it from top to bottom and flips it open. She then presses the beds close together as she slowly slides her from the hospital bed to the gurney, legs first. she shifts the woman's hips over before walking to the heads of the beds and shifting her shoulders over. Carefully, she pulls back her hair and tucks it into the bag, lifting it around her making sure nothing is left out before she zips it closed.
She stops a moment. "I can't close this without giving your name". She crouches down to the bag of items, rummaging through it. She pulls out a slender armband, twisting it about she sees a familiar logo. muttering quietly to herself. "Omega"
Miho folds up the armband and places it in her pocket as she looks for toe tags in hers.
She reaches into her back pocket and pulls out two half dollar coins, placing one on each eye. "That's for the ferry man" she whispers as she zips up the body bag.
She writes on the bag the same as her toe tag "Jane Doe-Omega" and wheels her out.
Miho scoops up the bag and envelope, swinging it over her shoulders as she steps out in search of some familiar faces.
Pontifex Janus smiles, and he says "How are you, Miss?"
Nareth: Sir...
Pontifex Janus: Your sleep...how was it?
Larissa Starostin walks out the door, as if drawn, and stops, blinking.
Nareth: My sleep was...deep.
Nareth glances past Pontifex to Larissa, surprised at how rapidly her pregnancy has advanced.
Nareth: But...I should not be here.
Nareth takes a single step nearer the library....
Pontifex smirks, "And where should you be?"
Nareth: I should be...in the sea.
Larissa smiles to Nareth, reaching out to her with both hands.
Pontifex frowns thinly, "The sea can wait.."
Nareth does not take Larissa's hands.
Nareth asks, "Larissa...You are...well?" and then she glances nervously to the sidewalk.
Larissa nods and lets her hands fall to her sides, but steps closer. "Nareth. I got your...message. Thank you"
Nareth: My message...oh. Yes. It was...all I had to give.
Larissa nods and bites her lower lip. "I hope you are well, too"
Nareth: I am...I am here...and now.
Nareth walks up the steps alone, stepping past Pontifex and Larissa, into the library. Inside, she spies Omega, Denenthorn, the wraith Dimentox, and several others.
Nareth (looking about the library): I feel like I have not been here in ages.
Nareth: Sire...
When Omega doesn't respond, Nareth lingers a moment near a table strewn with books...
Larissa walks in behind Nareth, and sways slightly. "You look strong, Nareth." Pontifex enters after Larissa.
Nareth: I am strong, Larissa.
Nareth shuffles nervously from foot to foot...then takes her usual on the sofa near the windows.
Dimentox: Omega...This is gettng shitasticly Hard for me...and not in the good hard way.
Nareth glances around, first at her Sire, than Dimentox, then Larissa.
Larissa Starostin tilts a head and holds her swollen belly, wincing just very slightly. "I guess I should sit down."
Nareth keeps her gaze on Larissa as she takes a seat in one of the chairs.
Larissa lowers her eyelashes as Nareth watches. "I am not so strong, Nareth. I thought I was..."
Nareth turns towards Larissa.
Nareth (to Pontifex): Sir...
Nareth: Will you please keep a close eye on me.
Dimentox Travanti *fades* from the library.
Denenthorn turns and nods to Omega "I think it is time..."
Larissa: Nareth. Do you still sleep in the sea?
Nareth: Yes...Larissa. I sleep in the sea. I sleep deep in the sea.
Omega: Dimentox's ashes are in the graveyard. I suggest it'd be adventageous if we find them first. Anyone?
Larissa Starostin nods and watches the fire.
Nareth (to Omega): You mean to ressurect him?
Denenthorn and Omega exit the library, on their way to the graveyard. Omega does not answer Nareth's question. Pontifex is now standing between Nareth and Larissa.
Nareth (to Pontifex): Sir...you will keep *both* eyes on me?
Larissa Starostin shrugs, too lazy to get up.
[[ Something feels Just wrong.. As if an ancient evil Is gathering its strength... You might even percieve a image of blood flowing through the streets of the city, Soldiers marching to the beat of a mad man.....]]
Nareth flares her nostrils, looking out the window at the street towards the haven.
Nareth: What rough beast, eh?
Pontifex Janus looks over, shaking his head, chuckling "I think you're the first woman who ever asked me that."
Larissa tilts her head to Nareth and the shivers, as "Something feels just wrong", but it dissolves soon as she laughs at Pontifex's response.
Nareth (turning back towards Pontifex and Lar): Perhaps so, Sir.
Nareth gazes past Pontifex to Larissa.
Nareth (half to herself): Its hour come round at last...again. Again, and again...
Pontifex Janus: I keep a figurative eye on you...I try not to keep the other ones from being fixation, least to curb temptation.
Larissa returns Nareth's gaze. "Do you fear you might hurt me? Do you have an urge for it you have to fight it so?"
Nareth laughs softly, darkly.
Nareth: Larissa, I am...an abomination. Nothing is safe near me. It is not an issue of my will. I have no...will.
Pontifex does fix his eyes on Nareth, "I am not afraid"
Nareth: No...Sir. You would not be. But...I hope Larissa is.
Nareth glances towards the fireplace and whispers urgently to herself, "Do not speak. Be silent, and do not speak."
Pontifex: Is something the matter, Miss?
Nareth (to Pontifex): No, Sir. Nothing is wrong. Nothing... (then to Lar) Accept my apology, Larissa. I say things I should not.
Larissa swallows "I love you, Nareth. It is one of the things I am most afraid of. I am not afraid of you."
Nareth visibly flinches at Larissa's statement.
Nareth: Love...me? No.
Larissa closes her eyes.
Nareth: Nothing will love me. Nothing *should*.
Pontifex chuckles, "Oh come now, have you read the Karma Sutra?"
Nareth: I have, Sir. Long ago.
Pontifex nods, "Then should I remind you, it described four kinds of love?"
Nareth closes her eyelids and whispers, "Four..."
Pontifex Janus nods, "One of which is familiarity..."
You: We are *that*, she and I. We *are* familiar.
Pontifex: See...so she *can* love you, just might not be the kind you were thinking of.
Larissa bites her lower lips again, shifting in the chair.
Nareth: That was...an error...on my part, Sir.
Pontifex nods turning to Lars.
Larissa: Pontifex, could you sit down, please?
Pontifex frowns, "And ruin my namesake as a pillar?"
Nareth opens her eyelids again, revealing her red eyevoids.
Larissa: Nareth is exactly aware of my feelings.
Nareth: I have asked him to stand between us, Larissa. He is guarding you from me.
Pontifex nods, "I love you both"
Nareth: That word. Must we use it so freely?
Pontifex chuckles
Pontifex: It does cheapen it...
Nareth: It has value?
Larissa covers her face with her hand. "It should."
[[Suddenly, the reapers appear in the graveyard. But its strange. They can no longer harm the citizens.]]
Nareth snaps the fingers of her left hand.
Pontifex: Oh indeed, one of the most valuable things...
Nareth: I cannot reckon the value of a thing I cannot feel.
Pontifex Janus: Ultima ratio regum.
Nareth: It is not my intention to cause you discomfort or sorrow, Lar. I should not have come here. It was a weakness.
Pontifex: People will die for love....nothing has more value
Nareth: People will die for money, for lust, for power...People will simply die.
Pontifex nods.
Pontifex: Did not say it was alone in that value, just that nothing can be more valuable than that which costs your own life.
Nareth laughs again.
Nareth: I would say life is quite cheap. Without a cent in my purse, have I purchased it time and time again.
Pontifex Janus: Life like most things are often bought at a discount. Nature of trade.
Larissa looks up. "Pontifex, *please*. Sit down."
Pontifex turns sharply to Lar, "No."
Nareth (to Pontifex): Oh, so we dance for economics tonight?
Larissa leans forward. "Oh, indeed when we speak of others."
Pontifex Janus chuckles, "I guess we do..."
Nareth: Well...then.
Pontifex: Sex, Love, Violence, Power, and Trade... what's the difference?
Nareth: None. None at all.
Larissa flinches and clenches her fist.
Nareth: Larissa... Would you wish me to leave? I would.
Larissa shakes her head. "I *wish* Pontifex would sit down"
Nareth: I have asked him to stand there, Larissa. He keeps you safe. I am keeping my promise...
Larissa groans. "Oh, I am quite safe, dont worry. Everybody is making sure I am safe."
Pontifex: You are with child, in accordance with the prophecy.
Larissa perks an eyebrow. "Oh, we have a prophecy too?"
Nareth (skeptically): First I've heard of it.
Larissa shifts and holds her belly, wincing.
Pontifex chuckles, "No, no...but it does add a dramatic ring to it. Does it not?"
Nareth laughs, a bit too loudly.
Larissa stares at Pontifex. "Oh, wouldn't be you, would it" Then she sighs, breathing heavily, and glares down at her belly. "Damn, I just want her to get out."
Nareth stares at her own gloved hands.
Pontifex (to Lar): Dont worry, soon she'll be ready to claw her way out. I've helped with two demonic children now...
Nareth cocks her head to one side, watching Larissa.
Larissa winces. "Claw? Oh, my god"
Nareth (furrowing her brow): Will it be like that, Sir? Will it really?
Larissa closes her eyes and leans back.
Pontifex: Denny's ex-wife and Hycanthian, both had demon children...and yes, the pregnancies are hell.
Nareth: So to speak?
Pontifex smirks.
Nareth slowly rises from the sofa.
Pontifex: Let me guess, I just volunteered myself to help bring a third into the world?
Larissa lets a tear flow freely. "Well there must be something after the heaven of making them." She chuckles.
Nareth moves very cautiously, coming to stand at Pontifex's side, never taking her gaze off Lar.
Nareth (agitated): This is...impossible. I can't do this.
Pontifex looks over at her, "Hmm?"
Larissa looks up at Pontifex, wincing. "I dont think its time yet"
Nareth: She has changed, Sir. Larissa has changed. And the air is filled with her. I taste it everywhere....
Pontifex (to Nareth): I sense you're saying this as it was a bad thing?
Nareth: Only in that I have promised I will bring no harm to her.
Pontifex: And you wont..
Nareth: The human stink of her...makes me...
Larissa sighs, frowning... "Well, at least I didnt *think* it's time Maybe I was mistaken."
Nareth glances anxiously to Pontifex.
Larissa looks up to Nareth.
Nareth: Would you...kill...me, Sir, if need be?
Pontifex looks over to Nareth again, "You'll be fine, you're with me"
Nareth: But could you?
Pontifex: Don't take this the wrong way, but yes.
Nareth (nodding): I take it literally, and no other way.
A demon, Lieba Rabeni, enters the library and nods to Pontifex. "Hey, tall dark and red one."
Larissa groans deeply again, and she says, "I might need to lie down at the hospital."
Lieba: Well, I just popped into town. Thought I would stop by and say hello Poncho."
Pontifex nods to Lars, looking over to Lieba
Pontifex (to Lieba): Could you help her, please?
Nareth takes a step nearer Larissa...
Lieba: Whats wrong?
Pontifex puts his arm in front of Nareth, "You'll be alright.."
Larissa sighs. "I am fine"
For a moment, Nareth stands very still, and it almost seems as though some silent exchange passes between her and Larissa. Both their moods abruptly shift.
Nareth smiles...and she says, "Look at me, Lar. *Look* at me."
Pontifex (to Lieba): She's about to give birth..help her to the hospital.
Lieba: I have some healing abilities. It is not easy, but if I can help I will. Ummm, a baby. A human one?
Nareth (shaking her head, ignoring Lieba): I will help her, Pontifex.
Lieba: 'Rissa, let's go.
Nareth holds both her hands out to Larissa.
Larissa looks at Pontifex, reaching for Nareth.
Pontifex nods, pulling Nareth to him, kissing her cheek.
Pontifex (to Nareth): Don't fail me...
Lieba: Poncho, I will help as well.
Lieba pushes her demon urges down.
Nareth takes Larissa's hands, helping her to her feet.
Lieba: Sorry, it's just that me and human babies...but...
Larissa leans on Nareth, squeezing her hand and sighs. "Thank you"
Nareth (to Lar): I know now. Now I understand and...I smell...what's coming.
Pontifex looks over to Lieba, then to Nareth and Larissa, "Do you two need additional help?"
Nareth: You will please stay near, Sir. For now, at least.
Pontifex nods.
Lieba: A human is gonna give birth.
Larissa winces again, frowning. "God knows what I need."
Nareth: Tonight I do a thing I have never done before. Tonight I become a...midwife.
Lieba: Doesnt it just pop out?
Milie: Oh, wow.
Lieba: I have only seen them...umm...later.
Milie: I could make a soothing potion to help with that.
Nareth: Do you...trust me, Lar?
Larissa closes her eyes, absolutely not in the room for a couple of minutes, then opens them again.
Larissa nods. "I trust you, Nareth"
Nareth smiles more broadly, baring her long incisors.
Nareth: The child of Lorne...
Larissa winces
Lieba Rabeni: This is *Lorne's* child?
Nareth: Yes...this is Lorne's child.
Larissa looks up.
Lieba smiles, and she says, "Then it has my protection."
Nareth: We should go...to the hospital, Larissa. There is so little time remaining...
Larissa blows out some air. "Goddamn His."
Nareth: Just walk, Larissa. You have that strength in you. It's not far. Just hold my hand.
Lieba taps into her darkness and enters into Larissa's outer mind giving her some of her own strength to get to the hospital.
Nareth (to Lar): Think of...our day on the beach.
Nareth abruptly glances to the female demon (Lieba) and frowns.
Larissa nods to Nareth and finds some strength. "I am alright, except...when I am not"
Nareth (to Lieba): Do not interfere. She is in my care.
Lieba blinks, taken aback.
Nareth helps Larissa to the hospital, accompanied by Pontifex. Lieba follows. Nareth leads Lar to a bed.
Nareth: You need to lie down, Lar.
Nareth flares her nostrils, glancing to Pontifex, still smiling.
Nareth: Now...Sir. Our dance. It was... economics, yes?
[[The sky starts to get cloudy and the wind blows....]]
Pontifex Janus lifts a brow and smiles.
Nareth: So, what rough beast indeed.
Nareth (to Pontifex): Do you feel that?
[[ Lightning fills the air... As toxic rain starts to fall..]]
Larissa breathes heavily "What is happening?"
Pontifex: Shh... it's nothing, just the end of one demon and the beginning for another.
Larissa winces. "Oh, surely she needs to come out right now"
Nareth (to Lar): One day...this thing will be clear. But...for now, it is only another mystery.
Nareth leans close to Larissa.
Larissa gasps and squeezes the bed.
Nareth says, softly, "Take my hand, and holds out her right hand.
Nareth: Squeeze it. Hard.
Larissa Starostin breathes rapidly and looks at Nareth with wide eyes. "You...with me...now," and she reaches for Nareth's hand.
[[The wind starts to blow and the lighting crashes furiously....... The all of a sudden it is dead quiet.. The sky clears....]]
Nareth: Here and now, just like I promised. Larissa, now, I will *tell* you something, and you must *listen*.
Larissa looks at Nareth, her eyes filled with tears, and she nods.
Nareth: When I say this, you will know I am speaking the truth.
Nareth glances about for Pontifex, who is returning with a couple of pill bottles.
Larissa winces, swaying back and forth.
Nareth: Larissa, your child is coming into this realm, and it needs a sacrifice. A blood sacrifice.
Pontifex opens one of the bottles, pops a few in his mouth, waits a moment, then shrugs as he offers Larissa a few.
Larissa Starostin bites her lip and nods, confused. "I dont think I need pills," she says.
Nareth (gazing intently at Lar): I was born in the death throes of my mother. And your child shall be born the same way.
Larissa holds Nareth's hand and focuses on her, eyes locked.
Pontifex blinks, "Hmm...when Denny's son came in, it required the sacrifice of his soul....but yeah, that was different. What do you propose?"
Nareth gazes deep into Larissa's eyes.
Nareth (to Pontifex): It *will* kill her. It will kill her horribly when it enters this universe. I will do it far more cleanly. I shall not see her suffer.
Larissa nods very slowly.
Nareth: The end is the same, either way.
Pontifex sighs, "Yeah, that almost hapened to Hycanthian. I'm sure Lorne warned you about all this?"
Larissa starts to shiver, holding onto Nareth. "I can feel..." she sighs. "He gave me an elixir to be strong So that I live through while she grows."
Pontifex: Ah yes... an elixir...and after it's birthed?
Nareth: There is not much time...It is coming.
With her left hand, Nareth reaches into a pocket in her dress. She takes out a silver straight razor.
Larissa looks back at Nareth, her mouth trembling as she speaks. "You once had my heart beating in your hand. You *know* what you must do"
Nareth: Do you love me, Larissa?
Larissa nods without words, fearing they are cheap.
You (to Lar): Yes...I see. Then I give you the choice that my own mother had to make. Your life, or the child's?
Pontifex pulls out two silver coins...
Nareth: I can take either.
Larissa swallows. "Are you joking, Nareth?"
Nareth: No. I am not joking. We must be very clear on this.
Nareth folds open the straight razor she has taken from her dress.
Nareth (to Pontifex): Economics, Sir. The price of lives.
Pontifex holds out the silver coins and begins to pray
Larissa groans, squeezing Nareth's hand. "My life would be worth nothing if I take another chioce, Nareth. She will be called Abigail."
Nareth (nodding): Abigail...her father's joy.
Nareth: Then, it is decided.
Nareth leans forward and kisses Larissa.
Larissa Starostin swallows and gets very pale and quiet. "It is"
Nareth whispers, her voice harsh, unsteady, "I love you."
Larissa Starostin's tears flow freely and nods, unable speak.
Nareth (still whispering): I have no cause in me to lie.
Nareth (raising her voice a little): Go down knowing that, Larissa. And that I will watch over your daughter as I may.
Larissa clenches her teeth as her whole body shakes, holding onto the bed.
Nareth: No. Do not struggle. It will be fast. There will only be a little pain.
Pontifex smiles, rubbing the coins between his finges, "Don't worry... I've died...it's not to bad......"
Larissa kisses Nareth for the last time, before she pulls away.
With no farther warning, Nareth slashes out with the razor, neatly severing Larissa's carotid artery.
Nareth (looking down at Larissa, at the blood spurting from her throat): There...Sleep, love. Sleep.
Nareth reaches around Larissa, cradling her.
Larissa closes her eyes, squeezing them shut and opening them wide.
Pontifex places a coin on each of her eyelids, placing his fingers on her forehead and prays, "May you find peace in the dead lands, and when you see the old guy. Tell him Poncho says hi."
Nareth smiles softly, and whispers, "Fascinating. It...hurts me. Seeing this." She holds Larissa tightly.
Nareth: Sir...
Nareth stands up again, looking at the blood on her hands, folding the razor closed.
Pontifex Janus looks distracted for a moment then looks over, "Hmm, yes?"
Nareth: ...I have done this thing. I have truly *done* this fearful thing.
Pontifex nods, "Yes... yes, you did..."
Pontifex: Bringing a child into the world, with no mother, and the father isn't around....truly fearful.
Nareth: That is not what..I meant.
Pontifex: I'm sure you'll make a good mother. though.
Nareth: Me? No...
Pontifex: You're bringing a life into the world...surely you'll be responsible for it...she has no one else..
Nareth (muttering): Fuck me.
Pontifex Janus shakes his head, "Not tonight..."
Nareth: Sir, don't take this the wrong way, but for once, shut the hell up.
Pontifex smirks, and continues praying..
Nareth has begun to cry red tears.
Nareth: It's very dark here. I have never killed to *bring forth* a life. I do not know my way...
Pontifex Janus shakes his head.
Nareth leans forward again....
Lieba (looking into the room): How is the human baby doing? Poncho, did the human pop the baby out yet?
Nareth covers Larissa's belly with her right hand.
Pontifex (to Lieba): One moment please..
Nareth (shouting): Silkence!
Lieba glares at Nareth.
Nareth: I'm going to open a rift between worlds. A very small one.
Pontifex Janus stands back and motions to Lieba to go to the next room.
Lieba mumbles something about "killing a bitch."
Nareth reaches up and seems to part the flesh at the base of her throat, and a great pool of blackness spills out of her.
[[The feeeing of evil remains but some how peace falls upon Some of you... Who knows what time will tell But Somthing has definatly gone wrong... way wrong.]]
Nareth closes her eyelids...
Nareth: This shouldn't be so bloody hard.
Pontifex shrugs with a knowing smirk
Nareth (speaking into the roiling blackness that has emerged from her): Now....come through, if you're coming.
Nareth howls, a terrible, sorrowful sound.
Nareth: Get...out...of her. Now! *I* am the bridge. I am the labyrinth. I am your portal. She is the blood.
The blackness emerging from Nareth begins to swirl faster.
Nareth whispers, "Hello, Abigail."
And the blackness vanishes, retreating back into Nareth's body. Nareth is holding a new born child in her arms. There is a gaping wound where Larissa's belly was. Nareth leans forward and slices the umblicle cord with her teeth.
Nareth: Sir...the dance is over. The dance is just begun.
Pontifex shakes his head, "Only the song..."
Nareth kisses the child on the forehead and it begins to cry loudly.
Lieba hears the demon baby screams.
Nareth: Abigail...This is your mother. She gave her life that you would be born to this world. Do not hate her for that, ever. Don't you dare.
Nareth holds the child close to her breats, and steps away from Larissa's corpse.
Abigail screams like a jackal, but looks Nareth right in her eyevoids.
Lieba watches the scene and thinks that this vampire girl has no business holding a demon child.
Nareth (to herself): I cannot bear this weight...
Lieba: No one to protect her now.
Nareth (continuing): And yet, I know it is my weight now to bear.
Nareth (to Lieba): I will protect her.
Lieba: Vamp, let the demon baby go. You have no right to take it.
Nareth gazes down at the child, amazed at it. Nareth is still crying blood tears.
Nareth: You will not speak to me that way, demon.
Lieba Rabeni: I will speak to you how I choose, vamp.
Nareth: I made Larissa a promise. This is no business of yours.
Lieba: It is now
The child reaches for Nareth's face, smearing the blood, and it giggles.
Lieba: You are a rude bitch who needs to be taught a lesson in demon ways.
Nareth: The child belongs to Omega. As do I.
Lieba: Then I will suffer at the hands of Omega.
Nareth (to Pontifex): Sir, please. I *am* taking the child with me. Do not let her trying to interfere.
Lieba: You spoke to me as if I were nothing.
Nareth (to Pontifex): You know what Larissa wants. Wanted...
Lieb: I'm sure Lorne and Lady Omega would not approve of your tongue. Poncho, can take the baby. I will kill you.
Nareth: Pontifex!
Lieba Rabeni: No one speaks to me that way.
Nareth, moving almost too swiftly to be seen, moves through the hoispital to its entrance, but Pontifex and the demon Lieba are close behind her. Lieba has drawn her swords. Nareth stops just outside the hospital, Lieba blocking her way. Nareth looks furious and confused.
Pontifex: Lieba, I'll take care of her..
Lieba: Dont walk away, you bitch..
Pontifex: Lieba, put down your swords...
Lieba: No. She is a rude bitch, and I don't like her.
Nareth holds the child more tightly, gazing directly at Leiba.
[[The sun starts to rise very quickly.]]
Nareth: You would murder an unarmed woman holding a newborn child?
Lieba: Give the child to Poncho, and yes, I would kill an unarmed bitch like you.
Nareth glances at the sky, her white skin beginning to sear.
Nareth (to Pontifex): Sir, I am going to the sea, and the child is going with me. I am going *now*.
Lieba: No, you are not.
Pontifex: Lieba, stand down.... now. And Nareth, congrats on the adoption.
Lieba: She is a rude little bitch who needs to be taught a lesson in her tongue. A vamp raising a demon? Hell, no.
Nareth (hissing, to Lieba): Then you will teach me on a night I do *not* hold my dead beloved's newborn crying in my arms.
[[Clouds form, and the sun gets blocked behind the Toxic clouds...]]
Lieba Rabeni (seething, to Pontifex): Fine.
Moving very quickly, Nareth heads away from the hospital, traveling south. The child clutched to her chest. Her heart pounds loudly. Near the sea wall, she comes upon a Shadow, but the demon is only curious and makes no attempt to stop her. She reaches the beach and stands there a moment, gazing out across the water towards the derelict tanker ship. She looks back once, then enters the cold ocean. By the time Pontifex reaches the beack, Nareth and the child are nowhere to be seen. Soon, the demon, Leiba, arrives and stands with Pontifex.
Lieba Rabeni: I *will* kill her. She is as good as dead. Why did you let her take the demon baby? She should not have it. You better stay close to her, 'cause she wont return home one night...
Pontifex: I will...
Pontifex: I should go...
Lieba Rabeni: Me, too. Where *is* the baby?
Pontifex: Protected..
Lieba Rabeni glares out to sea and mutters, "She should be with her own kind..."
Pontifex Janus bows respectfully and fades into the shadows.
***
The wounded neko medic takes the kit and rests it on top of the shelves, tearing it open with her teeth as she twists her arm over, pulling apart the bloody gauze. She presses the gauze firmly against her arm as she reaches for sterile cloths, wiping down her wound. Her face twinges in pain from the burn of alcohol.
[[Clouds form and the sun gets blocked behind the Toxic clouds... ]]
She is called Miho, and holds her arms till as she pinches the skin together, making a weak attempt at matching the layers of dermis before she places adhesive paper stitches. She is not alone in the hospital room. She looks at the chart, seeing it blank. She looks at the girl a moment. Her fingers pressing against her neck for her pulse. She frowns letting out a heavy sigh feeling no pulse. she gazes down a bit recognizing the clothing. "Mmmm " she pulls up the shirt mid way and sees the still swollen belly.
She quickly presses down on her belly feeling for pressure but sensing none. she whispers to the recently deceased. "Where's your baby hon? " She gazes over to the door where she saw the group just leave with curiousity. Instead of running out she tends to her duties.
She walks out of the tent and pulls together some supplies. snapping on a pair of gloves she returns with a full bowl of sterile water, gauze, and a yellow envelope. She sits at the edge of the bed and pops open the large envelope. she gently pulls off the valuables from her neck wrists and hands. dropping her wallet, jewelry, papers, and any other items in her pockets or on her body. She hops up and runs out the tent a moment coming back with a large clear bag and a long black plastic tarp folded in her arms. she places the tarp down and shakes open the clear bag, untying her shoes she slides each one in. She slides off her socks and balls them together tossing them into the bag. she unbuttons her shirt and pulls the girl’s shoulders up off the bed, sliding the shirt off her body. she folds it up and places it carefully into the bag.
She unbuttons the maternity jeans and draws them down, removing her undergarments quickly she covers her with the hospital blanket to preserve modesty. She folds the remaining clothing into the bag and seals it up. she places it down and rests the envelope on top.
Miho sighs looking at the corpse with a sadness, seeing the trauma of birth. "Damn...I'm sorry I wasn't here to help you" she whispers as she dips a piece of gauze into the warm water and washes away reminents of blood and after birth off her skin.
Miho Dagger rinses along her skin and hair, making sure to cover every inch. Her eyes gazing sympathetically as she turns to the departed's items. "Mmmm i'll have to figure out where this goes huh?" she mumbles to herself. She turns just a second and draws ina metal gurney, unfolding the heavy black body back on top. she unzips it from top to bottom and flips it open. She then presses the beds close together as she slowly slides her from the hospital bed to the gurney, legs first. she shifts the woman's hips over before walking to the heads of the beds and shifting her shoulders over. Carefully, she pulls back her hair and tucks it into the bag, lifting it around her making sure nothing is left out before she zips it closed.
She stops a moment. "I can't close this without giving your name". She crouches down to the bag of items, rummaging through it. She pulls out a slender armband, twisting it about she sees a familiar logo. muttering quietly to herself. "Omega"
Miho folds up the armband and places it in her pocket as she looks for toe tags in hers.
She reaches into her back pocket and pulls out two half dollar coins, placing one on each eye. "That's for the ferry man" she whispers as she zips up the body bag.
She writes on the bag the same as her toe tag "Jane Doe-Omega" and wheels her out.
Miho scoops up the bag and envelope, swinging it over her shoulders as she steps out in search of some familiar faces.
Monday, 19 May 2008
Nareth's promise
“I was sorry to miss your party, Larissa. I was.. unwell.” Omega pauses “I do hope it went well?”
“Oh, I hope you are feeling better. It was fun. Joah has a pretty home.”
“I wouldn't expect any different from her, I'm sure it's delightful.I am much improved now, thank you.” Omega leans down, still patting GrrBrool as he sleeps.
Larissa smiles but leans forward to look at Omega. "Is there anything I should know about?"
Omega smiles at her. “Nothing you need worry yourself with, M'dear. You have more than enough to concern yourself with. How are you feeling?”
Larissa tilts a head and smiles brightly. "I am well, my Lady. And I have decided on the name Abigail." she chuckles. "And then Joah told me it means Father's Joy." She grimaces but smiles weakly with a childish shrug as her gaze sweeps an empty chair. "But I like the sound of it, still. And well. I do hope she is gonna be joy for all."
Omega smiles. “It's a beautiful name. Well chosen”
Larissa's smile brighten more. "Oh, I am glad you like it too"
Omega nods.“I do, very much.”
Larissa's expression gets more serious. "Lady, I have a concern, indeed."
“Concern?”
“I know I cant raise her here... And I feel she will grow up fast. But somehow, I am not worried. Still, I need to figure out where to protect her childhood, however short that might be if she continues to grow this fast.
Omega smiles at her. “You would both be welcome at the Chateau, Larissa.”
Larissa 's eyes grow wide "Oh. Why I have not thought about that?" She reaches out to her hand. "You are most generous. Again. I wish I can somehow... What can I do for you?"
“You can be well, and take proper care of yourself.”
GrrBrool twitches his back legs, running in a dream.
Larissa nods seriously with a sigh. "It is not always easy, but I am full of expectations. I don't know... I have this energy to do something..."
Like what, Larissa?
Larissa tilts a head. "Like… cataloguing the books. A whole new system"
Larissa frowns at some books on the upper shelves. "Did you know, that some can’t behave and will never go back to their proper alphabetical places?"
Omega chuckles. “you're nesting!”
Larissa frowns. "Nesting?" She smiles slowly. "Oh"
She looks up the shelves again. "Still..."
Severus Seversky sighs heavily and vanishes through a chill shadowed rift
Omega Althouse glances at the empty chair and shakes her head a little..
GrrBrool Lykin shivers in his curl.
Larissa shivers at the chill too. "Ah, the stylish exits. I do miss those…"
Omega mutters something unprintable.
Larissa raises an eyebrow. "Has he offended you?"
Omega peeks at GrrBrool to make sure he's still dozing, then turns to Larissa, speaking quietly… “Boys.. what can you do? Can't live with them, can't sell them for scientific experiments.”
Larissa chuckles, but stays silent for a while. She finally stretches and asks with an awkwardly pretended nonchalance. "Omega, I believe you meet Nareth... more frequently... How is she?"
“I saw her today… She is well.. we spoke of you as a matter of fact.”
Larissa suddenly smiles. "She asked about me?"
“She worries for you, Larissa, and perhaps, doesn't quite... trust herself. I have never seen her show concern over such a thing before.” Omega smiles. “Perhaps, perhaps, we're getting to her, a little.”
Larissa smiles warmly and nods, showing Omega a little note.
The Lady smiles, getting quite a misty look. “Oh my. will you look at that.” Larissa nods without words.
Nareth gives to Larissa a promise: I will do my best to insure that no action of mine hand, and no omission of action by mine hand, brings your daughter to harm. And I shall watch over her, when I may.
Omega holds it still “This is… practically a... love letter.”
Larissa nods and swallows “She sent it via Joah...” She puts away the note into a little pouch, carefully tucking it into a hidden pocket.
“She cares for you a great deal, Larissa. More than even she knows, I think.”
Larissa nods and inspects her bracelets in great detail, tracing the patterns. "I have not forgotten her. I can see that one can love more than one. And I think Lorne misunderstood... my choice of leaving." She blinks and looks up. "Please tell Nareth, when you see her, that I asked about her."
“I most certianly will, m'dear.”
“Oh, I hope you are feeling better. It was fun. Joah has a pretty home.”
“I wouldn't expect any different from her, I'm sure it's delightful.I am much improved now, thank you.” Omega leans down, still patting GrrBrool as he sleeps.
Larissa smiles but leans forward to look at Omega. "Is there anything I should know about?"
Omega smiles at her. “Nothing you need worry yourself with, M'dear. You have more than enough to concern yourself with. How are you feeling?”
Larissa tilts a head and smiles brightly. "I am well, my Lady. And I have decided on the name Abigail." she chuckles. "And then Joah told me it means Father's Joy." She grimaces but smiles weakly with a childish shrug as her gaze sweeps an empty chair. "But I like the sound of it, still. And well. I do hope she is gonna be joy for all."
Omega smiles. “It's a beautiful name. Well chosen”
Larissa's smile brighten more. "Oh, I am glad you like it too"
Omega nods.“I do, very much.”
Larissa's expression gets more serious. "Lady, I have a concern, indeed."
“Concern?”
“I know I cant raise her here... And I feel she will grow up fast. But somehow, I am not worried. Still, I need to figure out where to protect her childhood, however short that might be if she continues to grow this fast.
Omega smiles at her. “You would both be welcome at the Chateau, Larissa.”
Larissa 's eyes grow wide "Oh. Why I have not thought about that?" She reaches out to her hand. "You are most generous. Again. I wish I can somehow... What can I do for you?"
“You can be well, and take proper care of yourself.”
GrrBrool twitches his back legs, running in a dream.
Larissa nods seriously with a sigh. "It is not always easy, but I am full of expectations. I don't know... I have this energy to do something..."
Like what, Larissa?
Larissa tilts a head. "Like… cataloguing the books. A whole new system"
Larissa frowns at some books on the upper shelves. "Did you know, that some can’t behave and will never go back to their proper alphabetical places?"
Omega chuckles. “you're nesting!”
Larissa frowns. "Nesting?" She smiles slowly. "Oh"
She looks up the shelves again. "Still..."
Severus Seversky sighs heavily and vanishes through a chill shadowed rift
Omega Althouse glances at the empty chair and shakes her head a little..
GrrBrool Lykin shivers in his curl.
Larissa shivers at the chill too. "Ah, the stylish exits. I do miss those…"
Omega mutters something unprintable.
Larissa raises an eyebrow. "Has he offended you?"
Omega peeks at GrrBrool to make sure he's still dozing, then turns to Larissa, speaking quietly… “Boys.. what can you do? Can't live with them, can't sell them for scientific experiments.”
Larissa chuckles, but stays silent for a while. She finally stretches and asks with an awkwardly pretended nonchalance. "Omega, I believe you meet Nareth... more frequently... How is she?"
“I saw her today… She is well.. we spoke of you as a matter of fact.”
Larissa suddenly smiles. "She asked about me?"
“She worries for you, Larissa, and perhaps, doesn't quite... trust herself. I have never seen her show concern over such a thing before.” Omega smiles. “Perhaps, perhaps, we're getting to her, a little.”
Larissa smiles warmly and nods, showing Omega a little note.
The Lady smiles, getting quite a misty look. “Oh my. will you look at that.” Larissa nods without words.
Nareth gives to Larissa a promise: I will do my best to insure that no action of mine hand, and no omission of action by mine hand, brings your daughter to harm. And I shall watch over her, when I may.
Omega holds it still “This is… practically a... love letter.”
Larissa nods and swallows “She sent it via Joah...” She puts away the note into a little pouch, carefully tucking it into a hidden pocket.
“She cares for you a great deal, Larissa. More than even she knows, I think.”
Larissa nods and inspects her bracelets in great detail, tracing the patterns. "I have not forgotten her. I can see that one can love more than one. And I think Lorne misunderstood... my choice of leaving." She blinks and looks up. "Please tell Nareth, when you see her, that I asked about her."
“I most certianly will, m'dear.”
Thursday, 1 May 2008
Truth, no nightmares
Larissa stirs in her rare sleep, again and again his face haunting her, again and again the memory of his presence burning her insides. She sleeps at a sanctuary at the ryder base. Everything smells of petrol and fumes, her sense of smell overly sensitive these days. She wakes with a sudden gasp, swallowing the urge to throw up, and looks up at her swollen belly. She closes her eyes, remembering the dream she just had, seeing him and his kitty happily. He cups this catperson's cheeks with both hands, kissing her deeply, then drawing His arms around her, squeazing her tight "My Kitty will have the mark of no one so blind, and so ignorant of the value of life that they should even consider for a moment you can have had a price put on you. If I was delivered the souls of a thousand generations of the world's most beautiful women it would not buy you from Me."
Larissa squeezes her eyes shut, knowing there was a reason for her soul to come back to her when she saw them so happily curled up in the couch of the library, and she nods in understanding, swallowing the sour taste and blows her nose again. She learnt the final lesson. She is not an apprentice any more, nor a master. She is just herself, all that she was before, and smiles. Her soul finally flickers inside her, at last not just a feel of useless ashes and dust. She opens her eyes, swaying back and forth, nodding and whipering to herself. "We will be fine."
Larissa squeezes her eyes shut, knowing there was a reason for her soul to come back to her when she saw them so happily curled up in the couch of the library, and she nods in understanding, swallowing the sour taste and blows her nose again. She learnt the final lesson. She is not an apprentice any more, nor a master. She is just herself, all that she was before, and smiles. Her soul finally flickers inside her, at last not just a feel of useless ashes and dust. She opens her eyes, swaying back and forth, nodding and whipering to herself. "We will be fine."
Monday, 28 April 2008
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