Anthony blinked a bit.. kinda stunned for lack of a better term. He reached forward and gently grasped her hands and looked up into her eyes. "Lieliah.. i want you to think about what you are asking me. Before you give me the right to do such.. you must be sure not only in your mind, but in your heart, that is what you want to do." He said softly as he smiled. "If once things calm down here.. and you still wish it so.. then i shall do it. But..right now, the time is not now, just give it some time..and thought."

As he watched her expression on her face, he brought her hands up to his lips and gently kissed them as he lowered them slowly. "And yes, i agree..that richard will be alright.. once we figure out what is wrong with him.. im sure that it can be reversed." His eyes gently lingered on hers as he sighed softly. "And if you need me for anything..anything at all.. my room is not far from here. Its just down the hall, three rooms down on the right." And slowly he stood up, reaching over to brush one stray strand of hair from her face as he turned to leave and head to his own room for some much needed rest.

LeiLiah sighed, she’d get what she wanted regarding blood in due time. She rubbed her eyes, watching Anthony leave, not really wanting to, but she’d nothing more that she could think of that would make him stay.

He left the room and LeiLiah dug out her diary from the confines of her bag and began to write. (Legend Eight) Afterwards, LeiLiah simply could not sleep, though she’d begun to suffer from exhaustion.

She walked down the hall and downstairs, perhaps hoping to find something that would comfort her in this time of need. It was eerie to be around such people, though she thought the ones she met were rather nice, upstanding creatures and human beings, LeiLiah could simply could not put her finger on what it was that was tearing at her so.

After walking for what seemed like ages, LeiLiah ran into the most beautiful antique piano she’d ever seen. She stood to stare at it for a moment, then walked over to sit on the bench, lifting he keygaurd.

The keys glistened in the darkness, like white gold and obsidian, the volcanic stone. LeiLiah ran her fngers over the keys lightly so as not to make a sound. Eventually, she couldn’t resist and began to play quietly so as not to wake others in the castle.

She played a different song now, something that was almost sorrowful, not like the generic music box tone she’d played for so long. The truth was, she was making it all up as she went along... and it was depressingly beautiful.

Richard struggled violently against the shackles, but the injuries healing rapidly as his kindred blood flared to heal them. His hunger grew now as he lunged across the cell slamming into the bars. His growling hiss echoing trough the chambers. "I’ll see you suffer and screaming for release before this is over!" The cold words followed by an eerie laugh.

Elizabeth leaned into Dareal trembling. "Williams told me a kindred would be coming and would retrieve something from me..the other showed me his face...it was Anthony, Dareal..." Tears ran down her cheeks now, even now she could feel the hands restraining her and a force brutally pushing its way into her. There was no escaping it..."Oh Dareal I don’t know why, but it will be like being raped again." She shuddered as the emotions flooded through her, then the walls errected again blocking the whisps of vision from her. "Just hold me ok? I want to sleep so badly right now. Please just do something so I’ll sleep my love....please" Her voice though frightened, showed in its tone the trust she had for him.

Stephen curled against Melanthus’s chest. His small delicate hand pressed to his mouth, sucking in small comforting sounds. The blue eyes looking at the kindred’s face with total trust of newborn creatures not yet familiar with life’s dangers. Slowly the small eyes closed as the infant slept within the safety of his new father’s arms. The winds of time seemed to drift over the two as a calm settled feeling came over those outside staring at young Sarah’s tomb. There was no feeling of loss to be found, just one of wonder at the new life in the Prince’s arms.

"You’ll do well Melanthus..." The soft voice of a female seemed to drift on the breeze. No images could be seen, but Sarah’s soft scent came with the words before drifting away on the warmth that swirled around the group, lifting their hair gently from their shoulders.

Roslynn shook her head as her and James exited the dungeon. "The boy’s really been hurt by Lokius.. that damnable wraith needs to be stopped, and soon." She sighed as she went to the council chambers, letting James go back to his doings as she waited for Melanthus to return back inside so she could tell him of their guest downstairs.

Dareal held Elizabeth closely, nuzzling her head as he crawled onto the bed with her and pulling her against his chest. "Shhh.. its alright my love. No one is going to hurt you. If there’s something that needs to be gotten, dont fear it. You know we are not the kind here that harm those on a whim. You know me and know how i am. I gave you my promise that no one would harm you, and i will keep that promise." His arms holding her gently and re-assuringly as he pressed soft kisses upon the top of her head as he sighed softly. If Anthony was there to retrieve something from his beloved’s mind.. he would make sure that -nothing- went wrong, and that he did not harm her at all. Or else the young kindred would pay dearly for harming her, that he made a promise to.

Melanthus blinked as he heard the words, only to smile softly as he caught the scent of the woman who gave birth to the youngster. "I will love him as i would no other, and ... i thank you, Sarah." His words spoken to the air as the long mane of hair upon his head swirled about his handsome features. Once the grave was filled in, he turned and took the child back inside, heading towards his room where indeed there was the awaiting crib and one of the maids having just put up the rest of the baby supplies for the youngster. "Marion, do you think you can look after the child for a bit.. i need to speak to Roslynn, alright?" Marion beamed and nodded as she took the small bundle of joy from the prince. "Of course, m‘lord. I will give him his first feeding and diaper." melanthus nodded, chuckling a bit as he handed the child, reluctantly at first, to Marion, who toted him off to let him feed. He sighed contently and then moved off and out of the room as he headed towards the council chambers to discuss with Roslynn the newcomer they had downstairs.

LeiLiah stopped after a few moments, feeling Richard rage in her mind. He was full of hate and anger and anything else that wasn’t exactly good to have in you. LeiLiah stood from the bench, tucking the keys away beneath their guard and headed to where the three travellers had headed inside.

LeiLiah followed down the stone walls to the cells below the ground level to find the damnable sounds of Richard. He was screaming and slamming against his chains... the sight of him was almost in humane.

LeiLiah stood in front of his cell, looking at him, remembering the young man he had been before everything started up. She blinked, looking up at him a little bit, just staring at him with her dark eyes for no real reason at all.

Richard glared at Le. "Well you’ve come to the right place hmm? Come to look at the caged monster?" He rattled the cell bars cursing bitterly before backing off and starting to pace. The shackles banged and clashed against the stone floor. "I want to feel thier blood flowing through my fingertips Le. I want to hear their screams and watch their eyes grow dim with defeat." Richard hissed in aggitation, his eyes flaring red then ebony black with each step of his feet.

"I will see the death of more than a few in this house." His eyes flared red and then went to a completely normal color. Richard smiled languidly at Le. "But deception works well to hmm?"

Elizabeth leaned into dareal burying her face against his chest. "I love you Dareal." The words coming from her heart. "But what I saw..." She trembled against him. "Dareal please tell me it wont happen as I’ve seen it." Yet deep in her heart she knew she was asking for the impossible. Williams and the other being of light had warned her of this...not to scare her but to prepare her for the pain and terror it would bring. But from the ashes of those smoldering hidden memories would come a great good. They had chosen her to be the caretaker of a great and wonderous secret.

Yet it was her own mind’s defenses now that held the knowledge behind steel doors. Elizabeth grew tired, and unsure of things, in that drowsy half sleep so common in vampiric victims that survived unharmed. It was a calming, healing sleep brought about by the passion and blood loss. By morning she would be fiine, maybe just a bit fatigued. Dareal could safely feed from his soulmate at least every other day. It would be an asset in times they might not be able to allow him to hunt. Elizabeth drifted off in Dareal’s arms..

Ricky muttered in a dreamlike voice about Sarah and his son. His eyes never opened for the time being. The young doctor’s body slipped back into its own type of protection. He drifted on strange dreams, talking to creatures from lands of fantasy and forgotten times. Once his eyes opened but he stared straight ahead, before a look of untold fear seemed to shock him from the state. Ricy’s eyes closed again. His pale face a stark contrast against the deep cobalt blue of the sheets and blanket over him.

Williams stood at the foot of the bed watching the young man. "I wish I could tell you that it was over Ricky. But it has only begun now. Your wife rests with me now and your son Stephen is in the loving, protective custody of Prince Melanthus. We you awake Ricky it will be only for a short time...then you to will pass." The ghost made an ancient sign over Ricky’s bed. Then disappeared from the room

Dareal held Elizabeth as she drifted off to sleep. He recalled what Williams had told them all.. that Michael and James were to be the ones to hold her.. Dareal to be the one to dry the tears and comfort her. Melanthus would be the pivitol point of strength, the one to made the order follow thru.. and Anthony..the one to initiate the tast. He sighed as he ran his hands thru her hair, thinking to himself that if anthony did not know already that he was to be the one doing this.. he would be once Melanthus told him of what was to come. But for the time being, sleep was much needed and accepted as he too curled up and rested with his beloved.

Melanthus walked into the council chambers, not expecting to see Roslynn already waiting for him as she stood. "M‘lord.. Lord Richard downstairs is in grave shape..and danger. It seems that Lokius has taken ahold of him, and in truth..i dont know how or if he can be released from the wraith’s grasp." Melanthus rubbed the back of his neck and sighed. "The only way we can save them all.. us included..is by finding that book. I have also heard that Dareal’s lady met Anthony earlier. Seems there’s something from what i was told..that she’s harbouring for us to retrieve from her mind. What, i do not know.. but from what i have put together from the link by Dareal.. its important information and he cant get it out of her, and she does not recall it. So.. williams has told me, dareal, james and Michael , that we have to get that information out of her mind, with the help from Anthony. I need to inform Anthony tho of what is required of him at the moment, and hopefully we can start on this in a few hours. Where is lord Anthony at right now?" Melanthus asked Roslyn as she looked towards the ceiling. "I believe he’s already retired for the eve. Him and the young lady he was with have parted ways. Tho, i have not seen her in a bit, i meant to check in on her to see if she needed anything." Melanthus nodded and sighed a bit tiredly. "I will go and talk to Anthony about what is needed from him, and see if you can check again on young Richard and on Anthony’s friend to see if she needs anything, ok Ros?" Roslynn smiled and nodded as she headed out, first going upstairs to see if Leiliah needed anything.

Melanthus then made his way upstairs to talk to Anthony. Finding the room he knocked on the door, hearing a faint acknowledgement for him to enter, in which he did. Anthony sat up in the bed, rubbing his eyes as he yawned. "Anthony, we need to talk." Anthony looked at Melanthus lofting a brow. "Aye, what is it m‘lord? Has Lei done something wrong?" Melanthus shook his head as he took up a chair near the side of the bed. "Actually, no. Im here to talk about Dareal’s beloved, Elizabeth. I heard about the short run in you had with her." Anthony nodded lightly as he listened. "What’s been going on here, is that yes, there is a wraith of great evil..that has been plaguing the lands, and overseas it seems also. Any that come in contact with him, he manages to persuade to his side, as what seems to have happen to your chylde, Richard. Now.. right now, richard is only a pawn to him.. the important thing that we are doign right now is looking for a book that will help us in getting rid of this wraith, tho we have not had any success in finding it. Williams tho.. has partook upon us that Dareal’s lady, Elizabeth holds some untold information that was bestowed upon her to be the bearer of. Problem is, that she does not remember the information..and none of us have the power to retrieve it from her mind." Anthony sat up more, blinking as he saw where this was going. "So.. you want me.. to go into her.. mind and retrieve this information?" Melanthus nodded lightly.. "Yes, im not asking you, im teling you to. We need this information and its imperitive that we get it." "But.. lord.. Lord Dareal.. what about him? You know that he wont let anyone hurt her.. and i dont want to get..that close to angering the ancient one." Melanthus shook his head as he folded his hands in his lap. "We know the risks.. granted.. it probably wont be easy for her.. or you... but its a risk we have to take." Anthony nodded his head slowly as he sighed.. "Just.. i really dont want to do it.. i’ve already caused enough problems... " Melanthus gave Anthony a hard glare.."But you WILL do this, no if’s, ands or buts. Is that understood?" Anthony frowned and nodded.. not liking it, but definetly not going against Melanthus. "Good.. get a few more hours sleep.. and you, me, dareal, james and michael will go up and do what must be done." With that Melanthus stood and took his leave, leaving Anthony, swallowing down some of his fear at what was to come. He really didnt want to do this.. not at all..but.. if it was going to help the clan and get rid of this..daemon.. then he would do it.

Roslynn knocked on the door to where Leiliah was staying, not getting an answer she opened the door and peeked in, taking note that the young woman was not in. Not thinking anything about it, she figured the woman was probably out feeding..or just taking in the look of the castle grounds. Ros shut the door and decided to go back downstairs and see how Richard was. She really did not want to go backdown there, after getting that nice scratch on the side of her forehead.. but that having healed over already thanks to her vampiric healing system. Ros made her way down the hallway, and opened the door that lead into the combo dungeon/sanctuary, that was Dareal’s place. She started down the stairs, only to stop as she heard voices at the bottom. "James? Is that ye? O‘ch.. man, why are ye back down here. I could of taken care of Richard.. tis nae a problem.. " And Ros started down the stairs, only to stop short at the bottom as she noticed Leiliah standing in front of the cell that Richard was at.

Elizabeth awoke the next morning a bit tired but otherwise feeling fine. Kissing Dareal gently she slipped in to the bathroom and showered. Her side hurt like crazy were the stitches from the stabbing had been reopened and resewn. During her passion with Dareal they had both sort of just forgotten about it. A smile tugged at her lips at the thoughts of passion. Her eyes closed remembering each detail. A soft sigh escaping her lips.

Quickly she dressed and went downstairs, noticing that Dareal was no longer in bed. A frown settled lightly on her face. Her light steps took her to the front main room, and she gladly accepted the mug of steaming coffee from the man, James, she had met the other day. He disappeared quietly back towards the kitchen giving her a friendly smile as he left.

Savoring the dark drink slowly she turned hearing Dareal and others enter the room. Her eyes locked on Anthony, then flickered towards Melanthus and Dareal.. she set the drink down and stepped backwards a few steps eyeing the men warily. A rising unease edging into her moves and surface thoughts. She felt hands take her firmly yet carefully by the upper arms, as Micheal and James eased her back towards the Prince and the other two kindred. Elizabeth’s eyes flared in fear and anger as her mind closed tighter. A look of betrayal shot viciously towards Dareal, but she remained silent.

While James and Michael held Elizabeth firmly, Dareal moved forward and even tho with that look he got from her, he reached out with a hand and gently caressed her cheek. "Please.. i know you know what is to happen.. and i am still not going to break my promise.. i will be with you thru it all.. and you wont be hurt. It may be... uncomfortable.. but please love.. know that none here -ever- intend any harm to you. Know that i love you with all i am..and i swear by my word and oath to you."

Melanthus then looked at anthony, who stood by the prince and nodded slowly. He hated to do what he needed to do, but this.. he knew was going to be painful, there was no way around it.. just.. he would try to deaden the blow as much as possible. James and Michael took her over to a nearby couch, Dareal kneeling on the floor in front of her as james and michael sat beside her, one on each side, holding her firmly in place. Melanthus stood behind Dareal as Anthony interceeded between the prince and priest.

As Dareal placed his hands upon her knees, gently trying to keep her calm, Anthony then opened up a tunnel to her mind. Anthony started at first carefully and easily, coming to the barriers that had been errected from her and also the ones that were put in place by Williams. The first wave of probing he settled into bringing the ones that Elizabeth put up, tho causing him to attack them harshly and with force as he peeled down those walls layers at a time. The feelings from this wave were enough to make one feel nauscious, almost like motion sickness or sea sickness. Anthony groaned as he intensified the link, battering the walls more as he dug them clear slowly from the huge thick barriers that had been thrown up by Williams. He had to keep fighting Elizabeth tho, and that was frustrating him as she was constantly re-building her own walls. "Pleaaase... she needs to.. stop.. or else she’s going.. to do more harm..than good.." Anthony groaned out as one side of the wall had been slowly rebuilt by Elizabeth.

"Please.. love... let him do what needs to be done... please." Dareal said as he looked at Elizabeth, seeing the pain that she was going thru as he then turned his gaze towards Anthony, glaring at him. If he hurt her.. by gods he would hurt him! Melanthus stood there, managing to keep himself calm as he thought about what Williams said... that all would be fine in the outcome. He knew tho..that this would seem as a... ’rape’ to her, after having been thru that already once on the first night they found her in the alleyway.

Elizabeth struggled against James and Michael's grip on her. But her normal mortal strength was no match for theirs. The two men held her in place as Anthony pushed against her mind. Tears started to stream from her eyes as she struggled back against Anthony even harder now, as feelings of being raped overwhelmed her. The images slammed into Anthony unmercifully as Elizabeth seemed to not hear Dareal. Her eyes closed as she gathered more strength from deep inside and sent it crashing back at the kindred Anthony.

She felt him stagger under the unexpected mental blow. Struggling against Michael and James for all she was worth, Elizabeth felt herself being forced to lay on the couch now, as they held her in place talking firmly to her but in soft voices. Dareal's voice in some vague arguement now with the other kindred around her. She was dizzy and nauseated from the mental assault, their voices muffled as if under water. Her heart raced in her chest and she tasted the coppery taste of blood on the back of her throat, causing her to cough against the fluid. Her nose had started bleeding from the mental pressure exerted by both her and Anthony. The blood didn't show visably but she could feel it in the back of her throat as it trickle down. But they held her firmly against the couch now, as she sobbed softly. A set of cool hands cupped the sides of her head holding it from moving now. Elizabeth felt Dareal's touch on her stomach and chest just over her heart, followed by a rush over comforting warmth and sense of protection. The words of a prayer he uttered making her draw a deep coughing breath.

Then came a flow of mental power into her mind that nearly caused her to lose consciousness with its strength and force. Anthony...the last tremendous assault on her shattering the barriers in her mind in an explosion of pure white light. She felt her heart stop then. Elizabeth floated in a field of grey mists at first before feeling herself being lifted up and away from her body. For a second she looked down at the kindred surrounding her body, then with a surging pull was drawn back down. A deep ragged breath issued from her lungs as her heart nade a few erractic beats then steadied. The voices around her meant nothing at the moment though, but she could feel the fear and anger. Unconscious though she was, Elizabeth knew Anthony's hands still rested on her head gently, trembling but not willing to let her go.

Taking strength in the presence of Dareal's love, her mind now open reached gently to Anthony's in silence. "Let me show you..." Her mind whipered to his. Softly she touched him through the link and drew him to her of her own accord. Elizabeth's breathing steadied now as her heartbeat grew stronger under Dareal's touch. She was aware of Melanthus's hand on Anthony's shoulder and the firm hands of Micheal and James still holding her but more gently now...more reassuring then restricting. Grounding herself on that, Elizabeth pulled Anthony's mind firmly to her now as they swept mentally through the tunnel towards a destination known only to Elizabeth.

James and Michael still holding a firm but gentle grip on Elizabeth now, but Dareal still none all too happy at Anthony. The kindred preist glared at the young kindred.. showing his discontent with how this all had to go about. Melanthus tho remaining behind Anthony as he continued to follow thru with the link, the young kindred finding it now a bit easier as Elizabeth guided him towards the information that was needed. Melanthus tho said not a word, only standing there in silence as this was all coming to a head. Dareal was so upset that Anthony did do harm to his beloved..that the protectiveness that the older kindred harboured for his love was yanking at the very thin strand of calmness he had at the moment, stressing it to where James and Michael looked down at the elder and both took in a deep breath, waiting for the bomb to drop as soon as this was all over. It was one thing going against one kindred.. but it was something totally different to not only piss of a kindred..but pissing of an elder kindred.. was definetly not something you would want to do at all. Anthony knew what had happened..and he was nervous as he followed thru Elizabeth's mind in finding what they were suppose to find. He only hoped that he would not get his ass beat badly for doing what needed to be done. Melanthus tho looked down at Dareal, giving him a stern look. "He was only doing what he was suppose to do.. she's fine, so lose the attitude, Dareal." Melanthus said with a calm voice, and the authority of being a kindred Prince. Dareal opened his mouth to say something.. but bit it back as he just grumbled with a bit of a hiss.

Elizabeth's mind swirled with colors that would have been blinding if she had been conscious. She slipped deeper into the tunnel not ment for the living. Her breathing growing shallow and erratic once more as her mind and Anthony's pushed forward. Under Dareal's hand her heart jumped and stuttered again, a cold sweat breaking out on her face that had growen progressively paler now. Coughing, blood seaped from the corner of her mouth.

Still the inward journey continued, her fear being felt by all close to her. Elizabeth bumped against Anthony's mind with her own, stunned and unsure now. A flaring of white light burst through their minds at that second, knocking Anthony to near unconsciousness. Elizabeth's heart crashed to a complete and deadly standstill once again.

But their minds were held firm in the pure light. A figure approached them, the man smiling softly.."Welcome Anthony and Elizabeth. We do not have much time...or your journey back dear Elizabeth will not be possible." It became apparent then to them both that they could indeed see each other in a vague form of astral travel. "My name is Williams." The man spoke quickly taking each of their hands into his. "Your clan can explain me more to you Anthony. For now though you are here at our beckoning. Only in death can a mortal be here Elizabeth. In the realm you come from you are for all intents and purposes dead." Williams grasped her hand more firmly. "I believe dear lady this makes 3 times in less then two days. An amazing feat no less. Come now." He led them forward through the light.

Elizabeth glanced at Anthony a quiet calm on her face now. "There can be no secrets Elizabeth...not if Anthony here is to unlock the final doors. Fear not though child, for now you both are protected by the forces that wish you all life and peace." His hand passed acros Elizabeth's forehead as he released her hand. In that instant Anthony knew her life and what had brought her and Dareal together. She shuddered in the astral realm, but did not fight Williams in this. In seconds they stood in another place.

"Here is what you seek Anthony.." Elizabeth's astral form collapsed then as her mind spoke to him. He found himself outside of a house then...a remote area surrounded by mountains and a raging river thundering through the canyon pass to the north of it. A large grey dog of wolf breeding charged across the yard its blue eyes shining with unearthly intelligence and power. It disappeared through a veil that appeared in front of it in midstride. Seconds later a woman stepped through the same veil.

Her strides long and graceful, causing the grey cloak about her shoulders to ripple with each stride. Her head turned towards Anthony, the green eyes harboring a sense of untapped power and intelligence. She looked young maybe 18 at the most, her long black hair flowing down to mid back, framing a face of unequaled beauty. Her aura flashed once to him...Kindred, new to the dark gift that had found her. But it sparkled also with the power of a master mage, a mix of creatures only heard of inn stories and legends. A creature that was also with child, a child that all races considered the ultimate danger to humanity and earth realm life. Her belly only just now beginning to show the life growing within her.

As she turned towards the mountains, her cloak opened enough to show the well made and expensive clothing of an old world traveler. It also revealed the deadly sword at her side and the dagger denoting a True Hunter of Caine. Before Anthony's mind stood the epitomy of danger to all kindred. She entered the house then...Anthony's mind racing in after her, the act of another's will exterted on him. She stood in an alter room now, lined with artifacts and books long lost to the human race. But here they sat in all their glorious occult wonder. The young woman's hands passed over a book then, its pages fluttering open under her touch. The very book they sought now.

"Sooo you search do you? Anthony, of the kindred clan overseen and lorded by Prince Melanthus...Your time and Elizabeth's is short now. Search for me in Shadows of the great mountains of Wales. Mt.Snowdonia...follow the Spiral Path to its peak. There we shall meet and see if your clan is worthy of this power. But know this Anthony... only a child shall wield its greatest secrets and power. Others may use it...but only if their faith is pure and unmarred...Sacrifice is required..." She turned then facing in his direction.

"The knowledge is yours to share now. Elizabeth has paid the second life of innocense...Sarah the first...3 others will also lose their lives before this book comes into the hands of your clan." Her fingers touched his astral brow. "Your childe suffers from a full possession by the demon Lokious. It was NEVER your fault Anthony. You must believe me on that matter. What the demon has done to Richard is beyond any help most in the mortal realm are capable of giving. Mind you I say ALMOST!" Her green eyes though held no remorse nor guilt, just a deep understanding.

"His life is forfiet now...upon his death at your hands and Dareal's powers as a priest...he will know release. At that time you must choose wether to bring him back across or consign his body to the flames." Her hand dropped to the now closed book in front of her. Your child will be the third. That was the choice I had to make in this...to choose the third life to be taken." Her head bowed, "Now go Anthony...return to your realm before there is no chance left for Elizabeth." Her head snapped up suddenly her eyes blazing with mage magick as her eyes bored into his.

"To revive her give her ONE cup full of her true love's blood. You must wield the dagger and convince him it is the only way. No harm will come to child she caries in this. But it must NEVER be done again until after the baby's birth. If it is to go beyond this one time...The child will be of both worlds...a dahmpher...a creature that has the power to do this among other things..." Her hand rose then, a blazing sphere of blue fire in her palm. Its heat sending waves through the air. With a twist of her hand it disappeared. "Go now Anthony...Elizabeth's life now rests on your ability to convince Dareal of what needs to be done." A swirling, nauseating sensation filled Anthony as he blacked out...His eyes opening to find himself on the floor with Melanthus kneeling over him.

Melanthus remained kneeling beside Anthony as the young kindred came too. Dareal having broken into a fit of tears as he looked at his love. "Elizabeth.. Lizzy!" Anthony groaned as he tried to sit up, Melanthus helping him to a sitting position, trying to let his senses get bak in place, tho a horrendous headache settling in. "Anthony.. the information..did you get it?" Melanthus asked as Anthony groaned.."yes..but.. we need to.. do something first. Elizabeth.. she cant get back to this realm.. on her own. She needs help." Before Anthony could say anything else, Dareal turned around, anger and sorrow in his eyes. "YOU killed her!" James and Michael both backed away at the very upset Dareal. "No.. i didnt.. but.. she needs YOUR help, Dareal." Anthony managed to sputter out. "Williams.. and another .. a woman.. said that..in order to help her.. you must give up some of your blood.. and give it to her. That.. will bring her back to us. But it has to be done now..or she will be lost." Dareal hissed as he glared at Anthony and Melanthus. "Old man, dont think about it..rightnow, you are needed to help your beloved." Anthony turned to look at Melanthus as he coughed, wiping a spot of blood from the corners of his lips as the headache pounded thru his body. "I need a dagger, and only im the one allowed to cut Dareal, accourding to Williams and the being with him. I have to be the one to drain his blood into the cup.. no one else." Dareal then hissed louder as he blurted out.. "YOU?! Like HELL. You are the one who put her in this condition! It's because of you that im going to lose her!" Melanthus reached up with a quick response, slapping Dareal across the face and oddly, keeping his calm. "SHUT up and do as your asked Dareal. If you dont want to lose her, you better get your mind back and do what is needed." The slap was extreamly harsh and blunt, nearly staggering poor Dareal back against the sofa as he growled. He knew better to cross the Prince, but he was right.. all that mattered right now as saving Elizabeth. With a nod from him, Melanthus had one of the maids hurry and bring one of the clan daggers.. one of the very few that had been around as long as the castle. Melanthus took the dagger from Marion, nodding to her as she left the room, handing then the dagger to Anthony. As Anthony took the dagger, he looked up at Dareal, showing no fear of the kindred, even in his severely upset state of mind. Another maid came in seconds later, holding a old english open topped stein and handed that as well to Melanthus. With help from Melanthus, Anthony stood to his feet, feeling his head swim from the headache as he felt a wave of dizzyness fill him. With a shake of his hand towards Melanthus, Anthony got his bearings and looked at Dareal. Dareal stood to his full height of well over six feet tall, a glaring and heated look shone in his eyes as he held out his arm towards Anthony. "Do it." Anthony nodded and cut the flesh with the dagger, the thick crimson blood from the elder spilling into the stein that Melanthus held to gather the precious blood that was the lifesaver that Elizabeth needed.

Once the stein was filled with the blood, Melanthus stepped forward and knelt as elizabeth's side and looked up at Dareal. "sit beside her." Amazingly Dareal complied, reaching forward to grasp her hands into his as Melanthus put the glass to her lips, parting her lips and helping the liquid down into her throat. Anthony felt his head swim still with the pain as James came up behind him and caught him as the young kindred nearly passed out, catching him in his arms. Melanthus continued to feed her the blood, till the stein was completely empty and all its remnants in Elizabeths system. Dareal now forgetting about Anthony, focused his concerns on the woman he loved. The pain in his eyes shone clearly as the tears freely flowed down his face as he brought her hands to his lips. "God.. please Elizabeth..come back to me."

For a few seconds nothing happened in the dead silence of the room. Suddenly Elizabeth drew a deep breath and gasped coughing as her lungs filled with air. The beating of her heart pounded in her ears as she drew breath after breath against the pain in her body brought on rom the experience of death. Her eyes opened then looking into Dareal's. Tears came instantly as she wrapped her arms around his neck and hugged him tightly. Sobbing a few minutes in sheer relief at feeling his arms around her.

But she broke off suddenly her eyes going to Anthony. Nothing but concern for the young kindred now resting in a chair near them. James at his side looking at Dareal. Micheal and Melanthus situated warily between Dareal and Anthony. Ignoring them, Elizabeth stood up shakily and went to his side. Her legs felt odd as she looked down at him. Swallowing she spoke softly taking his hands and kneeling in front of him. "Anthony? Listen closely to me now...please..."

She could feel Dareal's anger at the man. Taking a deep breath, Elizabeth followed her instincts now. She pulled Anthony forward and hugged him tightly resting his head against her chest, stroking his hair softly as she rested a cheek on his head. "Shhhh my friend. I know what Raven said to you...I know it hurts...but you did well with me. My death was NOT your doing. You heard Williams. I could not make the journey alive. I knew that, thats why I was so afraid. But I didn't want to say anything for fear of what might have been said or done." Elizabeth kissed his cheek as she pulled his head up to look Anthony in the eyes.

"Anthony...thank you for being my guide and giving me my life back through your actions." She stood then squeezing his hands. "Tis your job to relay the information Anthony, your part in this is only just begun...remember that. Remember also...I concider you a friend." Her hands let his go gently.

Turning she went back to Dareal and looked at him carefully. "Would you judge him for something that he knew nothing of Dareal? Would you punish him for something your Prince ordered him to do?" Her words soft but penetrating all in the room.

Anthony smiled a bit towards Elizabeth as he returned the hug. It was Dareal that got Elizabeths gaze next as Anthony replied to her.. "And i the same to you, m`lady." Dareal lifted his gaze at his beloved, the tears still very much so evident in his eyes as he let out a long and deep sigh of relief as his temper and anger slowly tempered down to near nothing as he shook his head.. "no.. i dont blame him..." His words murmured out as he reached up and still kneeling, wrapped his arms around her waist and pulling her in closely.

Anthony groaned a bit more as it was going to take a good long time for this headache to go away. AFter a few more minutes, Anthony turned to Melanthus and sighed.. "Here's the information that we seek.. we are to search in the Shadows of the great mountains of Wales. Mt.Snowdonia...follow the Spiral Path to its peak. There we shall meet and see if our clan is worthy of this power. But know this ...only a child shall wield its greatest secrets and power. Others may use it...but only if their faith is pure and unmarred...Sacrifice is required..."

Melanthus nodded as he motioned for James and Michael to take Anthony back upstairs to his room. As they did that, Melanthus turned his gaze to look at Dareal and Elizabeth. "Thank you Elizabeth.. im sorry.. that this had to happen in such a way.. but thank you. I think you two should get some rest as well." With that, Melanthus took his leave to go to his own room and think on a few things pertaining to the information. Dareal remained kneeling, holding Elizabeth close to him as he let his tears roll freely. He could not help the way he felt at that moment.. relieved was an understatement.

Elizabeth stood with her arms wrapped tightly around Dareal now her own tears dampening his hair down. "Dareal I should have told you what I had seen. But I wasn't really sure of it. It was like a horrid dream...nothing more." She kneeled in front of him now cupping his face in her hands. "When I saw Anthony I just knew why he was here...Williams and the other showed him to me. Oh Dareal...please forgive me?"

Her voice broke as she kissed him then deeply, breaking it only long enough to whisper, "I love." Against his ear, their cheeks touching. "Take me upstairs? I want more of what we shared earlier at the pond." Her eyes radiated with a glow of health and strength now. His blood had not only brought her back it had revived her fully from their earlier moments of passion. Kisssing his lips softly, Elizabeth stood drawin Dareal up to her. She smiled softly as her eyes locked o his full of mischief now.

"I plan on having my way...unless you put me to sleep like I think you are capable of if you exert yourself a bit with your abilities. Either way I'll go willingly." Laying her head against his chest Elizabeth sighed deeply, wrapping her arms around him.

Dareal wrapped his arms around her more as he wiped some of the tears from his cheeks as he lovingly returned her kisses. "Right now.. i would welcome just being with you.. period." He said as he lead Elizabeth back up to his chambers. Long deep breaths escaped his lungs as his body tried to relax a bit more. His anger towards Anthony forgotten as they walked thru the halls and up the spiral staircase that lead to his room. After opening the door, he lead her in, shutting the door behind them as he lead her over to the bed, drawing her down to him as he climbed upon the satin sheets. Gently he pulled her to him, letting his arms encase her slender form as he layed his head against her shoulders and neck. "You dont know how scared i was.. but im thankfull that you are alright. I love you." His words whispered against her ear as he seeemed content at themoment to just hold her body against his.

Anthony reached his room, but halted as he looked at James and Michael. "I want to check on... Leiliah, before i retire. I will be alright." The two kindred nodded in silence, oddly still in a bit of shock at what all has transpired as they left and Anthony headed down the hall to check on Leiliah. As he reached her room, he noticed the door open a bit, slowly pushing it open and noticing that she was already asleep. He stepped in, heading towards the bed to check on her, to make sure she was alright. As he neared her, he managed to smile genuinely for once as he let one hand gently brush against her forehead. Yes, sleep was needed for her, considering she did not sleep much at all the past few days, and needed it badly. His attention was drawn tho to the book that sat upon the table, the pages fluttering in the wind as he moved over towards the book, taking a look at what she had been reading. After reading what was on the page, his eyes blinked as he read the words, then moved back over to the bed she laid upon, and carefully sat in the chair beside the bed. "dear Lei... i wish you could have told me how you felt.. but i wont let you even try to end your own life.. no... not now, not ever." He whispered as the writing he read also explained her feeligns towards him as well, causing him to smile tiredly. After well over an hour, he stood from the chair, leaning over and pressing a soft kiss to her cheek as he reluctantly took his leave of the room. He needed to get rid of the nasty headache he had developed..and after that.. he would come back and check on Leiliah once again.

Elizabeth held dareal close, running her hands gently over his back and shoulders. Occassionaly her lips kissed his cheek and hair, sighing softly Elizabeth let her hands slip down and to undo his shirt. They slipped along his skin with the barest of touches, trailing from shoulder to waist then back up again. Her heart sped up as she felt a growing desire for more than just this gentle passion.

Slowly she eased down next to Dareal, putting her body close to his, slipping his shirt off as her kisses trailed over the exposed flesh. Her hands drifted to his waist and down his thighs, the touch so light it barely registered on a conscious level. But its effects were dramatic. Her lips found his and deepened into a kiss that lasted for moments that held no sense of time. His shirt slipped to the floor now, as she laid back pulling him in closer resting his head against her shoulder and neck again.

"Mmm I know what I want my love...but are you up to it?" Her tone hinting at a growing fire within her. When Dareal just smiled softly at her, Elizabeth up the stakes slipping the restof his clothes of as he did the same with hers. The hour that passed was even more intense then the first. The near loss of each other heated the fires and strengthened the bond more then ever. Elizabeth found herself under Dareal, their movements full of a surreal need for more than just a joining of flesh. She felt Dareal's face against her neck trailing kisses along it. A soft gasp coming from her lips as his hands found new ways to please her. Her own running the length of his body needing him in a way she could not put words to.

Tears of love dampened her eyes as her head slipped back now against the pillows and satin sheets. Warm hands pulled his body into her own joining them as one. Her soft neck expose to his mouth in total trust that if he did feed, he would not bring her harm. Elizabeth almost welcomed the thought of his sharp fangs piercing her with their sharp pain followed by an ultimate exctasy. A darker part of her desire wanted to feel him part take of her life in this most intimate of moments.

Dareal found himself once again like earlier.. finding it extreamly hard to say 'no' to Elizabeth in any way, shape, or form. He grinned back up at Elizabeth as she grinned down at him with her question, snickering as he replied back in a very thick accent.. "Up for it? Oh.. i think that's definetly not a problem, love." He said as they both explored eachothers bodies completely. Each and every inch of eachother's flesh was not left untouched as their bodies moved against eachother, firing the flames that they already shared to yet again unexplained heights of passion.

After the hour of intimate, passionate love, Dareal smiled so lovingly and tenderly to his beloved as she so openly gave him the sign that he could feed if he so needed to. He leaned down, pressing his lips and kissing all along the bare flesh, teasing her even more, drawing out the sensations that would cause her to shiver at the slightest touch of his fingers or anything else. Slowly he removed his lips from her neck, resting his body on top of hers as he nuzzled his face gently against her neck. A very content and happy sigh escaped his lips as he whispered softly to her.. "I love you.. and the offer was inviting..but im alright right now.. no need to feed. But later if i need to, i shall, my love." He said smiling as his body rolled gently off to the side and his arms drawing her into his chest as he pulled the sheets gently to rest over the two. He was a bit tired..but not hungry, his body very content and sated in just having had made love to his beloved..and having her body just next to his. That was all he could ever ask for.

Roslynn made her way back upstairs from the dungeon, having just checked in on Richard. He was indeed a very sad sight to see..and only hoped that this nightmare that had the whole clan and others involved in it..would end soon. She made her way down the long hallway, stopping as she heard Melanthus's voice from down in the council chamber. She turned and headed into the room, peeking in as she saw the Prince looking over some maps and muttering to himself. "Are ye alright m`lord?" Melanthus looked up, nodding as he smiled to the woman.. "Aye, im fine Roslynn.. just a bit on the tired side." She nodded as she came up to him, resting a hand gently upon his shoulder.. "Then perhaps ye should get some sleep too. Ye have not really slept since ye returned home.. and perhaps tis time that ye do?" Melanthus chuckled a bit and sighed, nodding.. "Aye, i think your right dear friend. Just lonely down there without Larynda around.. but hopefully.. she will be back soon at my side." Roslynn smiled and helped the kindred prince up, shoo`ing him off to bed. "Aye, she shall be back soon.. and ye need your rest just like the others..so rest and ye can finish up this on the morrow." Melanthus nodded, and hugged the woman as he smiled and left to go and retire to his own chambers below the castle to rest.

Elizabeth bit back the soft laugh as she let dareal get comfortable. Without warning she rolled on top of him stradling his waist her hands unerringly finding the now super sensative ticklish spots on his sides and ribs. The impish look on her face mixing well with her laughter. The more he squirmed under her, the more insistent she got. Leaning Elizabeth kissed and suckled on his neck as her hands kept the rest of him buisy.

With a rather bold move she sat back and crossed her arms looking back down at him. "You are more then ticklish right now my love." As he relaxed slightly she struck again her laughter mixing with his own. Somewhere below them she heard baby Stephen howl, deciding now was the proper time for a diaper change and a feeding. Elizabeth suddenly pictured the almost agonized look on Melanthus's face as the child's angery squalls intensified. she burst out laughing, telling Dareal her thoughts and what she had just pictured of the stately kindred Prince.

Her voice choking on her own laughter. It was obvious that Elizabeth was on a natural high ofrom the passion and play...she would be a VERY long time in going to sleep.

Melanthus woke stark out of the sleep he had just started to get as Stephen let out one hell of a loud anguished cry. Melanthus covered his ears as he slipped out of the bed, nearly tripping over his own feet as he sent a mental call to roslynn to come down and help him! Melanthus walked over, scooping up the child as he tried to calm the babe, getting a good whif of the very much needed changed diaper. Roslynn came skittering in as she rubbed her eyes, having just settled down herself to rest. Melanthus wrinkled his nose as Stephen cried more, ros coming up and taking the babe from him and taking him over to change the diaper. "Well, it seems ye are gonna have tae learn da hardway m`lord on the ways of a newborn." Ros chuckled as she coo`ed at the child, getting a pacifier and giving it to the young one as she went about changing the diaper. "Aye, so it seems.. and here i thought i would get some sleep..." He sighed as Ros giggled, putting on the new diaper and looking at Mel. "I will retrieve his bottle, and ye can feed him." Melanthus blinked as the babe was suddenly placed in his arms once again, clean and all, and thankfully not quite as loud as before. Ros took off and headed to go make a bottle and bring it back to Melanthus.

Meanwhile, Dareal chuckled at what Elizabeth said about the mental image of Melanthus and the screaming child, laughing so hard that his body shook as she continued to tickle his sides once again. "Ayeeeee! And here i thought I was the tease!" He laughed out as he reached up and tickled her as well, laughing all the more as he suddenly turned, rolling her back down onto the bed as he grinned down into her face as his body rested gently upon hers. "Mmmmm.. im beginning to love you all the more, the more you do that.. dontcha know?" He grinned impishly as his hands ran down her body, caressing and tickling at the same time as he laughed as she moved beneath him. Yes, it would be a long time before either of them would sleep.. but eventually after he finally felt his body tiring physically from the day's stress.. he leaned down, pressing a loving kiss to Elizabeths lips, letting his own lips then slowly drift from hers to bring down the passionate kiss that his fangs would invitingly bring him to feed, feeding just enough to send them both once again into a total and blissfull point of passion, letting Elizabeth experience the very same feelings they shared from his previous feeding. Withdrawing his fangs and both of them finally settling down to rest as the smile on both their lips told all that they were both truly and utterly content and happy.

Baby Stephen made soft gurgling cries behind the pacifier in his mouth. His small fists tucked up tightly against his cheeks now as tears rolled down the small face. "Hold him close my Lord. Against your shoulder with his head tucked in close to your neck. It is not just food he wishes, but loving closeness also." Sarah's soft voice whispered unseen in his ears. Her scent filled his nostrils softy, as a gentle invisible pressure rested on his opposite shoulder in soothing comfort. "He knows in his own way that things are not quite right. Instinctively a newborn searches for the breast of his mother to comfort him. Now Melanthus..you and your wife will be that comfort he needs. The protective force behind him as he grows into a strong young man full of a radiant power."

A shimmer filled the spot on the bed next to him. Sarah's ghostly fom sat there her hands crossed around her knees watching him holding the infant. A warm smile on her face. "I can not come often, but this visit was granted to inform and reassure us both that all is well Melanthus." Her hands guided his to gently engulf baby Stephen's in his own against him. The infant nestled in, soft smacking sounds from the pacifier and his breathing brushing against the Prince's neck and ear now. His body relaxed under the firm comforting touch. Melanthus could feel the infant's breathing and heartbeat closely now...so much different then an adult's. "There now...much better isn't it? Melanthus, close your eyes and feel with your heart now my Lord."

Her soft voice drifted as she moved around him now. "What you hold in your hands now...you will hold in your heart forever...One day you will have to decide if you will add to his power and bring him across into your world." Then she was gone...

Elizabeth knew Dareal was getting physically tired. She had pushed her playful bounds with him considering all that had happened. When she felt his lips gently brush her neck sending a shiver through her body, Elizabeth had become still under him. Dareal was gentle, but he was also tired. His fangs caused a deep pain briefly before the kiss's magick took over. Elizabeth's sharp intake of breath was muffled as she pressed her cheek against Dareal's head for those few painful seconds. But he fed gently, the pain was forgotten and she grew sleepy. As Dareal withdrew his fangs and sealed the wounds, Elizabeth snuggled in close and drifted off. Somethings were better left unsaid for the time being..it would only worry him and have him possibly pull away. Both fell into a deep dreamless sleep then..though she felt Dareal's gaze on her for a few minutes..

Ros came back in shortly after sarah's ghost left, toting the warmed bottle of milk for stephen. When she entered tho, she stopped and smiled as she watched Melanthus with the youngin in his arms, lovingly holding the babe against him. She smiled all the more as she quietly stepped over to Melanthus and gazed down at Stephen.. "Seems ye are doin alright afterall, daddy." She grinned as she handed Melanthus the bottle. Melanthus looked over at Ros, chuckling lightly as he took the bottle, replacing the pacifier with the warmed bottle and letting stephen feed hungrily. "Yes, and i would bet that if Larynda was here, she would find this all funny in her own way, but also wonderful at the same time." Roslynn nodded, smiling all the more as she went to the crib, making sure it was dry and not wet from the diaper, which it was just fine. She turned to look at her lord and chuckled.."Well, if ye need me again, ye know how to get ahold of me." Melanthus nodded and sat down on the side of the bed as he fed the babe, Ros then taking her leave of the two as they started to bond and headed back to bed.

Melanthus tho would not go to bed for quite some time, feeding Stephen and taking care of him, and just finding himself at first almost afraid that he would hurt the young one..but settling down after he remembered sarah's words with a smile upon his lips. Stephen had nearly finished off the bottle, those bright blue eyes having slowly started to close as his sucking motions on the bottle slowed to where the young one nearly fell asleep. When he figured stephen had enough, he burped him and replaced the pacifier back in his mouth, holding him against his chest while he sat there, rocking him slowly back to sleep, which did not take long at all to do.

Dareal found himself rather exhausted and as they both laid down to go to sleep, his arms remained wrapped around elizabeths form, keeping her close to him. The gentle sighs of her breath against his skin made him smile sleepily as he watched her slowly fall asleep. He loved this woman with all his heart.. and would do anything for her, and the thought of her with child made him smile all the more as he shifted upon the bed and closed his own eyes as his head nestled against hers as they slept side by side. On the morrow he knew he had a few things he would want to ask her.. a few of them important and some things they needed to truly discuss as well. Yes, tomorrow would be an interesting day, and one he hoped would be much more... enjoyable and not so hectic as today.

Dareal slowly awoke with a bit of a groan as his body slowly stretched out beside Elizabeth. His eyes came to open as he looked at the woman nestled still lightly beside him. Carefully he slipped from the bed, noting that he should go ahead and clean up.... a nice shower would do him a world of good. As he stood at the side of the bed, he went ahead and took off his clothes, dropping them to the floor as he then proceeded to head off to the bathroom to take a nice long shower.

Elizabeth's eyes opened part way watching him undress fully. A smile edging her lips now. "Want company?" Her voice was rather soft this morning as her eyes met his. "Or would you rather a shower by yourself my love?" There was a trace of something hidden in the depths of her eyes. Just waking up, Elizabeth was not aware that her concerns from last night showed more openly now. He stopped and smiled softly as his body shimmered in the dim light of the room. He turned and stepped back at the side of the bed, leaning down and pressing a soft kiss to her lips as he murmured. "If you like, company is more than welcome by me." And he could tell something was bothering her, her eyes gave it away as he reached out and ran a hand gently against her cheeks as he sat down beside her. "Something is troubling you, what is it my love?" Elizabeth laid still running a hand over his bare leg softly. "I guess I have a few questions for you. But I don't want you to get concerned or worried ok?" Her fingers came up and brushed a stray strand of hair from her face. Sighing she sat up a bit. "Dareal, I guess I'm a bit oncerned about may happen if you get to enthralled during feeding.I mean its got to be har to pull back sometines?" There was a subtle trace on unease in her voice as if some unspoken thought yet pushed at her.

He sat still as he listened to her questions.. smiling slightly. "Normal feeding.. no.. but i assure you, that i know my limits..and if its ever to the point where i know that i might cause you harm, i wont feed from you for that simple fact. The only times it grows hard for me to pull back, is if i have not feed in days.. and if that ever happens.. i sate my hunger someplace where i know i wont harm those in my clan.. or those that i care about, including you" He said as he sat there and watched her in silence, knowing that this was something he was going to have to explain to her today..but he had hoped it would be after he was done waking up a bit more and showering. "I know you have more questions.. so please.. dont fear of asking them to me.. i actually want to know what they are."

Elizabeth traced her fingers over Dareal's skin feeling the muscle beneath. Her face held a slight smile as she eased her head into his lap, resting her cheek on his thigh. "I have an idea lets go take that shower together shall we? I like feeling you close to me." She rolled over looking up into his face. "I think the rest of my questions can wait till after that hmmm? It was a bit unfair to spring this on you first thing in the morning." Her fingers traced his chest and hair that hung over his shoulder. "I ever tell you how handsome you are?" Her eyes sparkled brightly with desire and mischief now.

Dareal blinked as the skin she traced beneath her fingertips seem to twitch slowly, causing him to chuckle. "Perhaps a bit unfair.. but we will talk about what else troubles you..after we are done." He said, grinning down into her own eyes as his arms went up and under her, picking her up off his lap as he came to stand fully, holding the one he loved close. A few steps around the bed and to the other side of the room and he stepped into the bathroom, shutting the door behind them as he carefully put her down upon her feet as he leaned over and started the shower.As the steam started to rise, he held out his hand towards her, grasping it in his own as he lead her into the warm soothing waters that rained down upon their bare skin. As his hair became matted down along his back and shoulders, his head tilted and lowered as he pressed his lips to hers once again, drawing her in close to feel her body against his, to feel the desire that they both shared to grow into a bright flame of light.

Elizabeth deepened the kiss as her hands traveled down Dareal's wet skin. She shivered against him in anticipation of what was to come. The warm water streamed over her flesh in rivolets of thin beads, enhancing the touches exchanged between them now. Her heart quickening as her hands slid farther down Dareal's back as she pulled him closer to her. His gentle strength both stimulating and frightening at the same time as their bodies touched. Her mouth moved away from his and went to his neck, trailing soft fevered kisses over his skin. Elizabeth felt her desire mount to feel him even closer. Her eyes closed in contented pleasure. His body trembled in anticipation as he was drawn closer to her.

His body reacted as expected, soft moans of pleasure rumbled thru his throat as his hands slowly roamed up and down her own back and sides. Touching everything he could possibly get to. His head tilted back as he felt the fevered kisses she placed upon his flesh, sending his heart to race faster as his head slowly righted, the water flowed over his face, causing the cascade of water to run off. The words to describe how he was feeling were beyond explanation as he drew her as close as possible to himself. The desire and want of his own feelings coursing thru him as he tilted his head down, his lips finding her own and burning a passionate kiss upon them while his hands roamed freely over her dampened and naked flesh.

Elizabeth trembled as Dareal's hands found the sensitive areas of her body. A soft gasp of pleasure escaped her lips when his fingers glided over her body causing the muscles under her skin to quiver. Elizabeth's kisses traced down to his chest lingering over his nipples momentarily. Her hands glided down to Dareal's waist pulling him closer and guiding with subtle motions of her own as to what she desired from him. His warm hardness against her stomach,, bringing a soft moan from deep inside of her. The primal urges lit with their fires of loving passion giving an intimate meaning of love to what was transpiring under the warm waters of the shower. Elizabeth leaned her head back staring up into Dareal's eyes, the love for him shining with a brilliant all consuming fire. She rested her forehead into his chest allowing him to take over now as she gave in to his needs and wishes. Never before had she wanted another to have full say over her body...now though she wanted nothing more than to be his in every manner possible. She trembled against Dareal now, her actions and unspoken words conveying to the kindred that as long as she lived, she would never have another willingly.

He moaned more as his hands grasped lightly at her hips, yet firmly as he leaned back against the shower wall, firmly planting his feet in position as he slowly pulled her up onto his body, just enough so that his hips were even with hers. As he did so, his enlarged member positioned itself precariously below her opening, and within moments, one single thrust and he was in, feeling her warmth encase around his blood- engorged member as he let out a deep moan of pleasure. Carefully his hips moved, allowing him to glide slowly in and out of her, letting her straddle him while his arms came down to hold her firmly on top of him. The warmth of the water still raining down upon their bodies as the passionate fires that burned within them both took over both of them, stoking higher and higher with each and every stroke and thrust that Dareal gave to his beloved.

Elizabeth gasped as Dareal entered her warm depths, his member feeling hot and firm inside of her. Each thrust of Dareal's hips bringing a gasp of pleasure from her lips. Her lips found his neck again and kissed more firmly against his flesh, tasting the warm water and skin beneath. Her head tipped towards the side on his shoulder, the softness of her neck pushing against his cheek now.

The pulse beneath her skin, racing with her mounting passion. The danger of having a kindred lover, adding to her rapidly beating heart. Her skin grew flushed with the emotions driving her to newer heights with each powerful thrust Dareal sent into her. She could feel him thrust deeper and harder with each movement. It sent waves of blissful, subtle pain through her lower abdomen bringing a gasp with each motion. Her neck pressed harder into his cheek now, unmindful of the moment when his fangs would pierce her flesh. In fact she welcomed the unknown moment, wanting it yet at the same time fearing it in the pit of her stomach. It was something she would share only with him. Elizabeth's eyes closed as she felt him driving deeper into her depths...a sudden wash of ecstasy enveloping her with its power.

Dareal could feel the rapid beating of not only his heart, but of hers as he plunged deeper inside her with each firm, yet strong movement of his body. The steam from the shower mixing with the heat of their bodies as their passions rose, sending a sheen of fog covering the small window that was nestled far above them on the wall. Deep throaty groans rumbled thru Dareal's chest as he felt her head nestling against his neck. How he wanted this woman more than words could say, only actions were enough to describe what he was feeling. Another thrust was sent into her, this one much stronger as his desire rose to unthinkable heights as his body trembled and he let out a roar of passion as his seed filled her insides. His breathing labored as nothing but pure ecstasy coursed thru his very veins. Thrusting a bit more feverently he continued on, wanting Elizabeth to join in their union as he grasped still upon her hips and leveled down and up upon his hardened and engorged member.

Elizabeth pulled Dareal's head into her neck as she felt him release his pent up passion into her. The heat of his seed burning a trail up into her womb. The sudden rush it sent through her causing a moan of ecstasy mingled with a subtle undertone of pain. She wanted the kiss to dull the burning flare traveling upwards inside of her. But his thrusts continued stronger even now heightening her passion. With a groan she felt the ultimate release inside her body, the trembling shudder leaving her breathless. With a firm hand Elizabeth pushed Dareal's mouth to her neck, some deeper need inside her body requiring this. She felt something settle over them driving some deeper instinct that this union needed to be sealed in her blood and his. Tears of joy streaked down her warm wet face. "Please do this Dareal. I don't understand it, but just take from me now what your nature requires." Her hand held his head against her neck, the carotid artery throbbing heavily against her skin. She shuddered feeling him thrusting deeply still. Something inside telling her it was the final step in their binding.

As Dareal's body shuddered as he held her firmly on top of himself, his lips pressed firmly against her neck as he heard the words murmur from her lips. He did not think about it twice, as the points of his fangs grew, ebbing their way into her neck as they sank into the tender flesh. A deep groaning escaped up and thru his throat as the bit of pain at his fangs first insertion mixed with the already heated passion that was flowing between the two. His hips moved more heatedly as he moved in and out of her warmth, his mouth clamped firmly around the main artery that he pierced and started to drink from unconditionally from his beloved. His hands moved along her sides, slowing his strides in and out of her as he felt the waves of passion from both their lovemaking and his feeding crash in on themselves, entwining them both in a full rapture of ectasy.

Elizabeth pulled Dareal's head tightly against her neck as his fangs entered the large artery from her heart. Its fluid pulsing with life and chemicals produced from their passion. The sudden sharp pain was followed rapidly by the fiery height of the kiss. Yet somehow it was different, more complex. Dareal's thrusts up and into her body driving her to a dizzying height she had never felt before and that she nowshared with Dareal. They had never shared the kiss while still joined and in motion. The staggering complexity of emotions and feelings it brought about had no description. Elizabeth's heart pounded strongly in her chest pushing the bright vitae into Dareal's mouth at a staggering rate. Her hand relaxed against his head as he fed deeply. Elizabeth let the kiss take her to unexplored heights as her hands held Dareal close against her body. Yet on some deeper level of instinct she felt a nagging tickle even beyond the reach of the kiss. Somehow this had been different by far from anything they would ever share again. Her stomach tingled then as she subconsciously felt the burning of his seed enter her womb. A second later she felt a blinding flash behind her eyes and a sense of such warmth and protection it further heightened the moment between her and Dareal. She was unfamiliar with the sensation yet knew to not fear it somehow. She had felt it on a smaller scale within Dareal.

And the sensation that she felt flowed directly into Dareal, making its presence known, even thru the haze of passion that the two were currently sharing. After several long minutes, he pulled his fangs from the artery in her neck, licking away at the wounds as they slowly healed over and his movements inside her slowed to very slow pushes as he pulled his head back and let out a very deep and content sigh, his eyes fixing upon her own as his hands stopped and caressed her sides as he leaned forward,kissing her softly and lovingly on the lips. "Mm.. another time like that... and i think i will totally melt.. my love." He murmured softly against her lips as his warm breath washed over her own. His hips moved up slowly once again, causing him to smile fondly to her.

Elizabeth leaned into Dareal's chest a contented happy sigh coming from her. Slowly she bathed Dareal, enjoying the way her hands slid over his body. With gentle strokes she washed his hair taking the time to kiss his lips and neck as she went along. Eventually they finished and dried off. Elizabeth ran a hand across her stomach briefly as she dressed in the warm bathroom. "You know I'm going to be fat in a few months." The dry tone amusing, as it was countered with a playful pout and wink. She ducked out of the bathroom letting Dareal finish. The door barely closed behind her when she stopped dead in her tracks eyeing the man in their room. She froze fear etching her face obviously not recognizing the individual. Williams nodded slightly in her direction. "Be at ease Elizabeth my dear one."

Dareal chuckled lightly as he started to dry off a bit, his clothes tho still in the other room as he hollared back out to Elizabeth.. "Fat.. never my love, maybe a bit more rounder, but you will never be fat in my eyes." Tossing a towel onto his dampened hair and snagging up another towel, fastening it around his waist as he stepped out of the room, rubbing his hair dry as he looked up and stopped as he saw Williams in the room, chuckling. "Well, i was nae expectin ye to be showin up in here friend.. is there something wrong?" Dareal said as he tossed the towel from his hair into the small pile of dirty clothes as he walked up to Elizabeths side and snaked an arm gently around her waist, re-assuring her that everything was fine. Dareal's face tho showed the puzzled look of concern tho, thinking about the one they had down in the dungeon..and then thinking that maybe something had gone wrong with Anthony as he waited for the ghost to say something to him. "Williams...?"

Elizabeth leaned against Dareal eyeing Williams cautiously. The tenseness across her shoulders and back, letting Dareal know that she deffinently remembered something of her last encounter with Williams. The ghost watched the to of them in silence for a few minutes. Buisness be damned he was finally the bringer of good news for once. Clearing his throat, the old hunter drifted across the floor to stand in front of them. His eyes sparkling softly as his fingertips brushed across Elizabeth's stomach. "I wish to be the first to congratulate you on the ummm rather unique gift that has been bestowed up on you both." He touched Elizabeth's cheek with a surprisingly warm solid finger. "The forces of creation have deemed it that you should carry within you not just the child from the alley...but also one of Dareal's line." He looked up into the priest's eyes firmly. "I couldn't be happier for the two of you my boy." A gentle smile crossed Williams' face as he watched the look of total shock cross Elizabeth's.

Continued...