You match your partner’s pace as you head towards the castle’s kitchen.
You can’t help but feel slight shakiness as you walk. The movement has you quickly realize how sore your body feels overall. You specifically feel a tightness in your shoulders that you attempt to relieve with a small massage.
Your sudden actions catch the vampire’s attention as concern riddles her voice.
“Are you okay, my love? Was I too rough?” Alcina asks, fearful that the intimate moment from earlier may have strained you.
Your eyes soften as you address her, “oh no, it wasn’t you Alcina. I’ve just realized my body is a bit sore from training yesterday. I suppose it’ll take a bit before I can ease into it.” The vampire sighs relievedly.
“I’m glad to hear it’s nothing serious. Though we should have some balm that can help with that, let me go get it.” You grab the vampire’s hand before she can disappear, your grip isn’t tight and yet, any contact with Alcina sends an automatic pulse through you.
(Is this the love they speak of in stories? Or is Alcina’s effect simply that powerful?)
You both instinctively intertwine your fingers as you attempt to ease her worries.
“Oh, it’s quite alright, Alcina. I’m just a bit sore, nothing urgent. How about we eat first?”
The vampire seems to believe your statement.
“If you’re sure. But right after breakfast we’ll get you some balm.” The proposition brings a smile to your face.
“Deal. Luckily with a few more sessions I should be able to lift you with ease. You’ll never have to worry about walking anywhere again”. You say humorously, though a small part of you naively wishes you’ll be able to match the vampire’s strength one day. Alcina responses without missing a beat.
“Oh? Do you think a lot about lifting me?” The woman asks coquettishly. She releases a small giggle as she catches you covering your face with her hand.
++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
Morning light illuminates the space, creating a welcoming mood. The day is new and full of opportunity.
Delicious aromas break you from your embarrassment as you enter the kitchen. It didn’t take long for any guest of castle Dimitrescu to realize who the chef was. Lena was an expert of cuisine, both master and novice could see this. You couldn’t help but be in awe whenever you tasted a dish from her. Each meal introduced your tastebuds to flavours you had never experienced before; every meal was a pleasant journey. It was also just as surprising realizing how cooking was one of the few things that brought her more pleasure than her teasing her family.
Daniela speaks first while Lena beginnings plating food for the new visitors.
“Good morning, human. Or should we say hyman.” The blonde says while closing her eyes and crossing her arms from behind the isle. Daniela proudly nods at her brilliance.
A silence falls over the space as everyone processes how to react.
The redhead immediately sighs as she uses her book to cover her face. Lena on the other hand furiously bites her lip (almost enough to draw blood) as she braces herself against the isle, fighting what seems like an internal battle. Their mother pinches the bridge of her nose as a tired look covers her face. You simply widen your eyes at the nickname with a slight tilt to your head.
[…..I see the children are aware.]
The blonde seems to have defeated her entire family with a single line. They each reflect varying levels of defeat and exacerbation.
You flinch as the brunette suddenly starts hitting the isle, it’s becoming increasingly difficult for her to bite her tongue. (I can’t…It’s too easy- TOO EASY!)
You attempt to break the mood.
“I-“ Only to be quickly interrupted by Lena, clearly needing to say something to stop herself from passing out.
“WHAT I THINK DANIELA MEANS TO SAY is well..we may have overheard your teacher point out that you were..well..not fully human.” The brunette releases a large exhale, clearly holding in more than she originally thought.
(well, that explains who was at the door…)
“Oh.-“ You start scratching the back of your head as you try to explain. You can’t help but suddenly feel a bit anxious as you become the centre of attention. Even more so, you have little experience to help determine how others will respond to your mixed nature.
“Right, It turns out- I’m the offspring of a human.. and a lycan.” You say meeting no one’s gaze. Instead focusing on a plate of food that involuntarily makes your mouth water a bit.
Alcina’s eyebrows furrow as she catches your nerves. But before she can say something to ease your mind, her daughter beats her to the punch.
Alessia’s voice is smooth and warm. “how do you feel about the news, overall?”
The redhead’s question catches you off guard. Not only was it a genuine question over your wellbeing but it’s made you realize you yourself haven’t taken a moment to process your emotions over the situation.
The women patiently wait as you ponder the question.
(well, I’m both lycan and human…but I’m still me..I think)
A small smile emerges over your pensive expression as you feel Alcina warmly run a hand over your shoulders. The vampire gives you a reassuring squeeze as her hand stays on your body. You relax into her touch as you look up at her before answering.
Lena’s eyes happily widen at the gesture. (mother is becoming bolder by the day it seems)
Daniela on the other hand automatically thinks of a certain server she wishes she could hold in her arms, protecting her against anyone foolish enough to even leer in her direction. (…Jo)
The blonde feels the smallest tinge of warmth in her heart.
“I’m not exactly sure how I feel. I’m still me but I guess now I’ll just be learning more about what lies underneath ….well me. “ The women hold onto to your every word, even Daniela while licking her plate clean.
“Thank you for asking, Alessia- truly.” You quickly add as you flash her a grateful smile. The redhead mirrors your expression as Lena hands you a glass of freshly squeezed juice. Your companion is handed a teacup with thick red liquid, which she happily accepts.
Alessia starts putting her dish away as she speaks, “I’ll start looking through the archives to see if we have any research on children of mixed species. Hopefully we can uncover some information.” The redhead’s statement reflects her love language as she radiates warmth. Her sister follows her lead.
“Yes! (she snaps her fingers excitedly) There has to be something in those dusty tomes. Oh! I just remembered, Zhera’s had run-ins with a few lycans-“ (or was it that she’s hunted a few…I can’t remember)
“..I’ll ask her what she knows!” Lena gently ushers you and her mother around the isle as she places pates before you. Alcina places a gentle kiss to the brunette’s head and flashes Alessia a loving and proud look. The matriarch beams as she’s touched by her children choosing to support you out of their own volition.
Finally, Daniela jumps in with her own…support.
“Maybe now we can hunt together human, considering you’re not as fragile as we thought.” The blonde says while jokingly pointing a knife in your direction. You can’t help but feel oddly touched by the statement.
(It feels like only yesterday she happily held a sickle against my neck…)
“Fragile? clearly not, look at the bruises on her neck- I doubt she’s cacking anytime soon” Lena whispers to her sisters within ear shot of their mother. The brunette promptly looks around the room as Alcina clears her throat.
You attempt to shrink into your clothing, failing horribly to hide your embarrassment, let alone your marks.
Lena tries to save face, “was there anything else your muscley instructor informed you of?”
As you look around the room you can’t help but feel the weight of the situation. Not too long ago you were the stranger in the castle and now here you sit, enjoying breakfast with the castle’s inhabitants. The mysterious woman who first entered your shop now sits at your side; your neck covered in her affections. There is a specific word that enters your mind as you speak, “…yeah. She informed me I now have a pack.” Your heart swells as the vampires genuinely listen, the sunlight gives them a pleasant glow. Your body feels warm. You quickly down your juice as you repress getting too emotional.
There’s suddenly a knock at the main entrance which triggers confusion in you.
Alessia starts making her way towards the main hall as her mother speaks up.
“After all these years and she still chooses to knock.” She says warmly with a smile.
“I’ve informed her, but she says It’s still too impolite.” Alessia counters. You can’t help but flinch as the redhead disappears into a swarm of insects. Realizing castle Dimitrescu would still take some getting used too, your thought is only supported when you notice your companion refill her teacup. Deep crimson flows out of the expensive looking bottle. Alcina eyes the empty wine bottle with a small tilt to her head.
[I better check on that batch].
++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
~A few moments earlier~
The man known as Philips frowns as he watches a woman voluntarily walk into the castle. The vampire hunter’s grip on the binoculars tightens as anger and confusion flow through him. Wind blows through his short dark hair.
“Hmmmm. I’ll need to be careful. It seems these women have a stronger ability to corrupt than I originally thought. Who knows how many people they’re holding against their will?” He says to himself as he scratches his rough stubble.
(and no signs of my wife yet. Knowing these beasts, they’re twisted enough to keep her alive until the full moon.)
“Let’s hope for both of our sakes they give us enough time. Regardless, I promise I’m going to make them pay. Enjoy your time now, beasts- soon you will feel the very same fear you create.”
The man releases a deep sigh as he relaxes behind a large tree. The hours of recon were finally starting to take a toll on him. The image of a young woman flashes into his mind as he closes his eyes for a bit. The scar in his shoulder acted as a physical reminder of the very woman who shot him. For some reason, he had difficulty forgetting the woman despite the rest of her existence eluding him.
“Stay alive until then, my love. Just stay alive.”
The hunter falls asleep, unaffected by the harsh winter as fatigue overtakes him for a short amount of time.
+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
Alessia takes a large bag off the visitor’s back, clinks of metal can be heard as it lands against the floor. The small woman throws her a grateful smile before she’s abruptly pulled into a tight embrace. The visitor happily squeals as she feels herself easily lifted in a small spin.
“I’ve missed you dearly.” The vampire instantly relaxes as she feels the visitor hug her back tighter, smiling against the redhead. A happy sigh leaves Alessia as a familiar scent welcomes her, a rich smokiness of burnt wood crossed with molten iron.
The woman’s voice is high and pleasant, “and I, you, ‘Sia.” She says with a happy giggle as she pulls back, placing a calloused hand against the vampire’s cheek. The redhead kisses the hand and quickly starts peppering kisses down the woman’s arm, continuing as she takes the visitor’s other hand. The woman grins from ear to ear, constantly endeared by her partner’s shameless attitude.
“Oh! Before I forget, I brought you something.” The vampire allows the woman to break the embrace as she grabs something from the large bag.
Alessia is taken back by the large book. Its reddish leather is worn out as creases and small stretch marks cover it. The vampire gently runs her fingers over the inscribed title, heavily printed letters reveal the tome’s age. Alessia’s voice gets slightly caught in her throat.
“Lily, I-I..This is too much. I ca-“
“Don’t be silly, sweetheart-“, the woman excitedly hops in place, finding the vampire’s hesitancy almost too adorable to handle. Lily holds her hands over her heart as she continues.
“ I simply made a spiked mace in exchange for it (she lightly shrugs) and you’re well worth the labor.” The small woman finishes as she quickly lifts against her toes, bringing an intertwined fist to her face. Her energy is reminiscent of someone touched to be receiving a gift rather than being the gift giver.
“Lily…” The vampire is interrupted by a small boop to her nose.
“I will say, it’s super cute you still try to fight it.” The woman lovingly chides her partner, her voice sweet and enamoured by the woman before her.
Alessia’s heart swells at the statement. The vampire gently brings her partner’s face against hers. Lily smiles against the soft kiss, reminded once again, home is wherever Alessia is.
“Phew. Thank the gods today is a…research day, correct?” The blacksmith appreciates, considering most research days involved her and the redhead spending time alone, down in the archives. Lily’s face gets warmer as she remembers how their last “research” day lasted for over six hours.
“It is but as luck would have it, we actually have a topic we can search for: lycans.” Alessia responds as she replays the moment, she heard Vera reveal the news. Her brows furrow as she remembers how difficult it was to eavesdrop with Daniela’s constant babbling of how she could “easily defeat the teacher in battle”.
“Lycans!? Well, isn’t that something. Regardless, I can’t wait to meet her! It’ll be nice to finally have a face to put with all your stories.” The woman says brimming with enthusiasm.
Alessia easily throws the large bag over her shoulder while reaching for her partner’s hand.
“It will be, won’t it.” The vampire responds while the women walk hand in hand towards the kitchen.
++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
Once you return your attention back to your breakfast you notice part of the food has disappeared. You narrow your eyes at the blonde as she giggles at your realization.
Before you can respond Alessia returns with a woman you’ve never seen before. The first thing you notice is her height. You’re surprised to be around someone shorter than you-considering each member of family Dimitrescu towered over you in varying degrees.
“Good morning, everyone! I come bearing gifts!” The woman’s voice is filled with genuine excitement as she happily hops towards Lena’s open arms.
Lena happily welcomes the blacksmith with a tight embrace, “Lily!”
The visitor’s bright smile beams throughout the room as she hugs the brunette, both women rejoice with glee. Giggles fill the air as Lena shamelessly compliments the woman’s bone structure, gently pinching her cheeks as Lily tries to deny the kind words. Daniela takes the opportunity to take more food while her sister is distracted.
Alcina addresses the visitor warmly, “good morning, Lily. We’ve all missed you.” The vampire organically places a hand on your shoulder, patiently waiting to introduce you.
Daniela rolls her eyes as she speaks while chewing, “it’s been like a month.”
You catch the small woman genuinely amused by the blonde’s comment.
“Which might as well be nine hundred years for Alessia.” Lena says while addressing you with a playful wink. If the redhead is affected by the comment, she doesn’t show it, she instead wears a comfortable smile, gently lowering a large bag onto the floor.
Finally, the blacksmith’s eyes fall onto you. You match her smile, only for her to suddenly rush towards you with full force.
You can’t help but release an “oof” as the small woman brings you into a crushing hug, knocking all the air out of you. Her unmatched strength contradicts her small physique. Alessia warmly smiles at the scene. Daniela continues to pick off your plate, well aware no one could escape a hug from Lily. Alcina’s hand rest against her cheek as she watches amused.
[We better double that balm.]
The pixie of a woman enthusiastically addresses you, “I’ve been so excited to meet you! ‘Sia’s told me so many good things! I’m Lily!” You notice the faintest hint of freckles across the woman’s face.
(Sia?) You slightly lift your eyebrow at the nickname.
Alcina helps support your balance as you catch your breath after the hug.
Despite the woman’s strength, you can’t help but find her energy infectious. You match her smile and focus as you introduce yourself, “It’s a pleasure to meet you Lily.”
Stars enter your eyes as you finally take in the woman’s ensemble. Several sheathed blades and weapons hang off her hip but what you really fall in love with what the thick coat she wears. The coat is black and accented with white detailing. Thick toasted brown fur covers the large hood and lines the coat’s armholes. Every inch of the jacket looks to be made with care and mastery. The collector in you is in awe.
(..I’ve never seen such a coat…)
Lena’s voice breaks you from your thoughts.
“Oh! Before I forget. Lily, darling- please tell me you have it!” Lena pleads while making a praying gesture with her hands.”
The small woman responds with snapping her finger and throwing a knowing point towards the brunette.
“Of course, Lena!” You flinch for a third time this morning as without warning the woman dramatically unsheathes one of the blades off her belt. All your flinching makes you wonder if you lived a more sheltered life than you originally thought. That or perhaps the Dimitrescu lifestyle truly warranted many “flinchable” moments.
Alessia hovers near the dark-haired woman, curious of what she’s brought her family.
“It’s one of my finest creations.” Lily says while proudly showing off her craftmanship.
(She’s a weapons maker…perhaps a blacksmith?)
Awe fills you as you take in the longsword’s intricate detailing. An ornate pattern covers both guard and pommel, while rich leather weaves around the hilt. Sun sparkles off the glittering metal as engraved words can be read down its edge. You slightly tilt your head as you try to read the quote.
(..In darkness your strength shines the way to paradise and I will be with you every step of the way..)
The brunette gushes, “Lily, it’s exquisite! She’s going to love it. Thank you, truly.” Lena gently receives the blade and sheathes it. The vampire hugs the blade against her chest, genuinely grateful. (I can’t wait to take the next step with you…)
Alcina and Alessia are immediately aware of the blade’s significance, their eyes meet as the ends of their mouths slightly lift up.
The blacksmith dismisses the brunette’s words, “It’s no trouble at all. It’s the least I can do for Zhera and especially you. And oh, here, for you Daniela.” Lily presents a pair of matching daggers to the blonde. Each equally ornate as Zhera’s gift. The blacksmith catches the vampire off guard, mouth full of food. Daniela furrows her brows in confusion. You notice Lena’s eyes widen as she suddenly remembers something.
Lily continues with a warm grin towards the blonde, “Lena informed me you needed something to fill that holster you’re ready to gift. I thought matching blades for you and your beloved would do just the thing.”
Daniela dramatically turns her head towards the brunette, rage fills her eyes.
“Okay. I’ll be the first to admit, perhaps I shouldn’t have read your diary but now you have a lovely knife for miss Trevelore! AND ONE FOR YOURSELF! Honestly, I think that’s proof enough that I’ve done no wrong.” Lena convinces herself while she holds her hands up.
You gulp as you feel the encroaching tension. Without thinking, you grab Alcina’s hand. The matriarch fights back a smile as she looks to the ceiling, suddenly feeling no tension at all.
Alessia looks between her sisters, gently placing her hands on Lily’s shoulders as she rests her chin against the woman’s head. Lily leans into the touch as jet black hair contrasts against fiery locks. Alessia’s closeness is organic as it is supportive, the vampire is prepared to protect her partner in case she gets caught in the crossfire of her sisters’ ongoing squabbles.
Everyone seems to the feel the tension in the air except for the blacksmith, her positive energy is unwavering. Lily instead patiently holds out her creations.
Daniela takes a deep breath. You again flinch as she suddenly lifts from her seat and gently accepts the knives. “Thank you, Lily. They’re incredible. I think..I think she’ll love them.” Daniela fights back the usual grit she carries in her tone. Unsurprisingly, even the deadliest killer finds it difficult to be unkind to the blacksmith. A gust of wind blows through the space as the blonde runs out the room, most likely to stop herself from stabbing the brunette then and there.
Lena releases a small “phew”. The air feels lighter.
The woman continues giving out gifts as she hands Alcina the large bag.
“And here you go, oh great lady of the castle.” Lily says humorously with no harm behind it. You crane your neck, trying to see the bags mysterious items.
“Oh, Lilian-“ The matriarch’s eyes light up as takes out a sterling silver candelabra, you match your partner’s awe.
“I know you like changing them every decade or so…” Lily says while looking up at Alessia, the redhead holds her tighter, grateful for anything that makes her mother happy.
Childlike wonder emerges on Alcina’s face as she thanks the small blacksmith.
“They’re perfect. Somehow every creation you make comes out like a piece of art. Thank you, dear girl.” You notice the smallest crack in Alcina’s voice. The tender moment touches your heart as you realize even with all her wealth, the matriarch could still be taken aback by a gift from the heart.
The blacksmith’s eyes once again fall onto you, you can’t help but feel a shiver run down your spine. The woman’s attention and focus were unmatched, she’d truly be intimidating if it wasn’t for her genuinely cheery demeanor.
“You didn’t think I forgot about you, do you?” Lily asks with feigned annoyance, placing her hands on her hips as she tilts her head.
“Oh, I-“
“Nice try, little one but I have an extra special gift for you.” She flashes you a playful wink, unable to keep up the false attitude.
(LITTLE ONE!?)
The woman then pulls out a small, wrapped package from inside her impressive coat. You’re taken aback when she places it into your hands. The room’s eyes fall onto you as you gently unwrap the gift. Alessia can’t help but watch excited, knowing full well her involvement with the surprise.
You release a small gasp as you unfold the hooded cloak. The dark material feels soft to the touch, a silver chain connects two silver raven heads across the collar. Intricate dark stitching keeps the piece together.
You stand there speechless, somehow the cloak is perfectly your size.
Much like your partner earlier, you fight back the tears you feel coming on. You hold a death grip on the garment as you process such a surprise. You loudly clear your throat as you attempt to thank the woman in your stunned state.
“Lily..Tha-OOF”
The woman once again tightly hugs you; you can no longer hold back your tears as the blacksmith squeezes them out of you.
“We’re just happy you’re here!”
(….my pack.)
++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
As you finish what little breakfast Daniela left you, you catch Lily before her and Alessia head off to start their day.
You speak slightly out of breath as you run out the kitchen.
“Lily! I’m sorry to bother you but I was just wondering where you got that coat? I’ve never seen one like it before.”
(..and that’s saying something.)
Alessia patiently waits for her partner to answer.
“Oh this? Zhera made it for me in exchange for, well a leather harness for a specific apparatus.” Lily explains shamelessly.
The dark-haired woman continues as you tilt your head in confusion.
“An apparatus that is used in times of intimacy, it grants the wearer an extra appendage.” Lily slightly whispers while throwing you a wink. You quickly catch on.
(….OH, oh I see.) You immediately clear your throat and Lily laughs at your bashful response. Alessia remains unaffected despite the subject matter.
“Yes, exactly! I’m sure Zhera is just dying to meet you as well! Don’t be too intimidated by her glares, that’s just her way of telling you she likes you!
You narrow your eyes in confusion at the redhead, she simply offers you a slight shake of her hand, indicating “somewhat”.
“I-“
Before you can continue you hear Alcina’s voice come out from behind you.
“Apologies, my dear. Alessia, do you by chance remember where the relaxant salve is?”
“East wing, in the large washroom at the end.”
“Perfect, I hope you two enjoy your day.” You and Alcina wave the women off as they start making their way towards the castle’s library.
Alcina releases a small happy sigh, “ I’m so glad Alessia found someone as lovely as Lily to betroth.”
“BETROTH!?”