reposted by request

Teijal was bored. Very bored. The usual hobbies such as torturing the locals or terrorizing the pygmy demon population just didn't appeal to her anymore. Well, she had been doing it for a couple hundreds of years. Shaking her head, she crushed a skull in her hands seeing if that brought any inspiration.

Nope. Nada.

She was still bored. Cursing, Teijal decided to visit her favorite human. After all, what else could she do at this hour?

Teijal materialized into Rhen's yard, under the shadows of a large tree. The vampire crooked a brow as she watch the human move with the sword. It was fluid, graceful, and utterly amusing to watch. The vampire stayed quiet and just watched until Rhen finally paused to take a breath.

Clearing her throat, she stepped out of the shadows clapping. "Very good. Though I thought little humans such as yourselves should be asleep at this hour."

Rhen jumped when she heard the vampire speak and spun around. "Teijal! What are you doing here?"

"What, I can't check up on my favorite human?" Teijal gave her a cheeky grin while walking up to her.

Rhen rolled her eyes. Honestly, she would never understand the vampire. Teijal laughed and stood a few feet away from the human, an amused look in her eyes. They stood there for a few seconds, Rhen muttering something about crazy and woman. Teijal just smirked not mentioning she could hear every word the human said. While Rhen continued to ramble, Teijal observed the human and absentmindedly noted the tension she saw.

Suddenly, an idea popped into her head and her smirked widened. Now she knew what to do to get rid of her boredom.

Moving swiftly, Teijal placed a finger on Rhen's lips to stop her ranting as she commented, "You humans talk too much." Before the human could say anything, Teijal hugged her and whispered in her ear, "Dance with me."

The human jerked her head back and tried to break the hold. "Why?"

Teijal shrugged, keeping a firm but loose grip. "One: I'm bored. Two: I came here wasting all my energy to get here. Three: I don't feel like listing anymore of my reasons."

Rhen sighed and looked into the vampire's eyes. Was there a hint of.. concern? No, that couldn't be right.

"Come on Rhen, just one dance."

Yes, that couldn't be right. Rhen sighed and nodded, giving in. Teijal grinned and took a step back, her hands lingering around the human's waist.

At first, they danced rather awkwardly, almost as if they were both on eggshells. But eventually, both were able dance to a slow song neither could hear. Rhen started to feel more tired with each slow step. She didn't even notice she was leaning against the vampire, until she heard Teijal softly hum. The human didn't recognize the tune, but found it soothing to her tired body. Soon, the two slowed to a stop and just stood there, enjoying the comfortable silence and companionship they both craved for.

A few moments later, Rhen yawned, unable to repress it any longer breaking the silence. Teijal gently stood away from the human, and in an uncharacteristically soft voice, "You should sleep Rhen."

Rhen nodded slowly and turned to walk back. Just before she went into her house, she turned to the vampire and smiled, "Teijal... Thank you."

Teijal nodded and with a her trademark smirk, replied. "Anytime Rhen. Anytime."

She silently watched the human close the door with a soft click. Turning away, she chuckled softly.

Well, it was soon going to be morning.
And she was no longer bored.

All in all, it was a productive night.

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This was so stupid. She was being stupid.

Teijal didn’t understand what was happening. It was just a dance, a stupid dance to cure Teijal of her boredom. It was meaningless. So why in all the fiery hells did the thought of holding that person not leave her?!

She got up in total frustration and started to pace.

Vampires do not worry about humans. Vampires cannot care about humans. Humans were insignificant playthings and food for vampires. Then how come that human would not leave her mind?!

Teijal took a skull and crushed it in her hand watching her blood run before healing quickly. Damn this was insane. Growling in frustration, she decided to do some traveling. After putting liberal amounts of sun lotion on (thank goodness for supply magic or she would have ran out long ago), she flew to the source of her problem.

Rhen.

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Landing a few feet outside the human's village, Teijal attempted to regain her cool. It was a futile mission, but the luckily the villagers were easy to fool. They already had a rather healthy fear of her anyway. Regally, the vampire made her way to Rhen's house.

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The first thing the vampire noticed was agitated voices. Very agitated voices. Curious, she approached the house with a bit more speed. She was just curious. The second thing she noticed was a very belligerent looking man standing outside Rhen's house.

hmmm...

She crept closer as the voices became more clear. Ahhh, a suitor. And a very aggressive looking one at that. There was much gesturing and movement from both. Rhen looked like she was an inch away from slicing the man's head off. Fortunately, she was also patient. Unfortunately Teijal wasn't. The vampire's eyes narrowed as she glared at the man. Insignificant insect. Who the hell did he think he was? She promised she would not interfere with the human's life. But she did not promise interfering in other people's lives.

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"Come on Rhen, I'll be the perfect guy for you." The man said arrogantly.

Rhen didn't know how much she could take before she just slammed the door in his face. Really, why couldn't people understand the word NO. She was being very nice here listening to his proposal for ten minutes but this was getting ridiculous.

"My answer's still the same as before: No."

The man looked dumbfounded before reaching out to grab Rhen.

"Listen here you –"

Whoosh.
Snap.
Crack.

"ARGH!!"

The man backed away holding the remnants of a broken arm. "What the hell?"

Teijal merely shrug. "If you don't leave now, it'll be the other arm for you."

As soon as she saw the man aiming to grab Rhen, Teijal saw red. Growling, she ran and shattered his arm with the ease of snapping a twig before standing a few feet in front of the man. Perhaps he'll get the message now?

…Apparently not.

"You… demon!"

The man charged at vampire. With a barely concealed sadistic grin she rushed too. The vampire's superior speed allowed her to easily evade the man's attack and grab his fist. Twisting it, she sent the man sprawling and tightened her hold crushing several fingers.

"Come on, is that all you are little boy?"

"Teijal! Stop!"

One second the man was standing. The next, he was on the floor, his arm bent in a bizarre position, and Teijal was crushing his fist. Giving the human an eye, Teijal casually released the man who got up and ran away.

Silence….
The two warriors stared at each other. Rhen glared at the vampire. Why did the vampire go around hurting people? Oh yeah, because she was a vampire. What happened to the vampire who held her?

Walking….
Rhen felt her anger grow. She had never been this angry in her life, not even when she was in slavery. Why was she angry?

More silence…
Damn it! No one goes around breaking bones to get the message across!

SLAP
Teijal's head turned from the force of the hit.

Silence
Teijal's head whipped back, eyes blazing. The human slapped her.
Slapped her.
Her!

The pain didn't register as her rage at such humiliation rose.
Who. did. that. little….. human think she was?!

Suddenly Rhen slammed against the wall of her house, the vampire pressing against her. The human's hands gripped tightly to her side. If the vampire breathed, Rhen would have felt it across her face.

"Teijal! Let me go!"

Ignoring the human, the vampire concentrated on restraining her anger. Right now, she felt like tearing the human apart. No, she will not do that. Gritting her teeth, the vampire growled. "Why did you slap me little human? The idiot deserved it!"

Fearing she might actually do something stupid like tearing Rhen's head off, Teijal abruptly released the human. "Nevermind. Next time I'll ignore whatever mess you get into."

Not waiting for a response, the vampire turned into mist and flew.

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Raging, Teijal took her blade.

Slice,
That

Hack,
Damn

Thrust,
HUMAN!

Slam!
A head went flying.
The blade shattered.
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Slowly the rage dwindled and the vampire's mind returned. Surveying the damage in her castle, Teijal slumped against the wall with the least debris near it. She felt something wet on her face and gingerly touched it. Blood. Bloody tears. A harsh laugh reverberated through the castle as Teijal dropped her head into her hands.

Damn it!

…damn it.

The vampire had fallen.

The vampire didn't know how long she stayed there, a bloody mess. Eventually she picked herself up and went to hunt, simply because she was hungry.

She didn't know where she was going until she found herself outside of Rhen's house. The vampire straightened her back, and knocked on the door.

Knock knock knock.

No one answered. Thinking the human was purposely not answering the door, the vampire grew angry. She transformed into mist and floated under the door. Materializing in the room, she noted the human was no where to be seen. Anger turned into worry. Teijal glided across the floors, checking the rooms of the small house. She finally found the human collapsed on a bed and a sword on the floor. It looked like she wasn't the only who took out frustration with a weapon.

The vampire absently noted how the moonlight made the human's skin glow. She gently touched the human's hair feeling how soft it felt. Closing her eyes she let her mind wander. The vampire heard a movement before finding herself flung onto the floor with a dagger at her throat and a body straddling hers.

"Teijal! What are you doing here?!"

Rhen awoke when she felt something an odd aura around her. She pretended to sleep while binding her time. Feeling the person pause, she sprang into action. The vampire smirked. Somehow, this made her feel better, feeling Rhen's body on top of hers. Had she mentioned Rhen looked absolutely sexy when she was angry? Not liking how her thoughts were going, she frowned and gently tried to push the human up. Rhen didn't budge.

Cursing mentally, Teijal muttered, "I came to...check up on you."
Even that sounded weak to her ears.

Rhen snorted but got off the vampire. "I don't need your 'help'. That man's family is going to cause a lot of trouble for me."

Teijal got up while asking, "Why?"

The human shrugged after she stuck the dagger back into her boot. "Because he's the son of the richest family in town. They have a lot of influence in this area and will most likely kick me from town."
She sounded tired. Teijal frowned. "Is it because of him you cannot sleep?"

Rhen looked up at the vampire with weary eyes. "No, but he is part of the problem."

The vampire nodded and silence filled the house. The tension in the room slowly rose until you could have probably cooked a griffin over it.

"Teijal-"
"Rhen-"

A nervous laughter filled the air. Teijal took the plunge first. "I am...sorry if I added to your problems."

Rhen looked up startled. The proud vampire had never apologize in her life. "And I'm sorry about hitting you. I was already angry and your actions just brought out the bull in me."

Teijal nodded before looking amused. "A bull? You punch harder than Ahriman himself."

"Are you calling me a demon?"

"No, I'm saying you're the demonic goddess of slapping."

Shaking her head Rhen slightly smiled before looking at the vampire. "So why are you really here?"

Teijal ran a hand through her hair as she answered, "Just felt like it."

Accepting the answer for now, Rhen walked past the vampire all the while saying, "I need something to drink."

The vampire trailed behind the human. As Rhen dipped into the bucket of water Teijal muttered, "I hope... you still consider me a friend."

The human nodded. "Yeah, still friends. Take more than an anger spat to break our bond."

Her mind at ease, the vampire silently watched the human prepare herself a meal. "What will you do about the man?"

The human stopped eating. "I don't know. Probably explain as best I could his advances were not appreciated." Muttering something about the pain of family connections, Rhen continue to eat.

Teijal laughed. "What if I 'settle' it for you? Since it was my mistake in the first place." When Rhen looked up in alarm, the vampire finished quickly, "I will not do any real physical harm to the man or his family. Just some persuasion."

Rhen's eyes narrowed. "What kind of 'persuasion'? "

The vampire just smirked with an arrogant gaze. Rhen sighed, but just shook her head in amusement. "Just don't scare them too badly."

Teijal looked wounded as she exclaimed "Me? scare? Please, I am a vampire. We rather take your blood than waste so much energy for scaring."

"What about Galahad?"

"What about him?"

"You scared him."

"Yes but I stole his soul too, and it was very tasty."

The two woman laughed remembering how Galahad had scream like a little girl. It was cruel, but neither women liked the pompous peacock of a knight.

"How is he anyway?"

"Don't know."

At Rhen's questioning gaze, Teijal explained. "I tired of his anti darkness dribble so I released him. Since the wedding was 'until death do you part' and we were already dead, the wedding was invalid. He somehow stuck to Daemon last I heard and they were going to save some lady in the south."

Silence filled the room again until the vampire voiced a question that had been bothering her. "How is...Lars?"

Rhen looked up from her water. "Oh, he's fine. He visits every now and then."

"And are you two... close?"

"I..think so."

The rest of the meal ended in silence. The vampire observed the human discretely, noticing the calloused hands, and the human's fragile appearance. She felt a sudden urge to hug the human and felt a strange burn in her heart. When the human finished her meal she looked sleepy. "Teijal..."

"Yes?"

"Can you... stay with me tonight?"

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The vampire's head whipped up. "...Why?"

"Because I could sleep in your arms. Remember that time...?"

Teijal nodded, her mouth becoming slightly dry.

Teijal and Rhen were separated from the group by the Deavas. Teleported to a place of darkness, monsters constantly attacked them from everywhere. Despite being an extremely good warrior Rhen was tiring and she was a mere human. She needed light and rest. The vampire in contrast could easily see in the dark and gained energy from the monsters' blood. On a rare moment of respite, the human sunk down in pure exhaustion, but she couldn't sleep. Her nerves were too high that she was shaking with tension. Cold bloody hands began working her shoulders. A voice near her ear whispered, "Rest now. I will protect you." Slowly, she dropped off into sleep in the vampire's arms. Teijal kept watch. She knew the others would soon rescue them, but until then they needed to hang on. Despite being covered in monster blood she didn't want to be anywhere else.

Rhen and Teijal slowly made their way back into Rhen's room. The two warriors stood awkwardly near the bed before the human took a breath before getting into the bed. She looked nervously at Teijal who swallowed and went to the opposite end. She slipped her arms loosely around Rhen who, feeling safe with her demonic protector, slowly drifted to sleep finally for the first time in days not including her impromptu drop onto the bed. The vampire stayed awake all night holding the precious human to her. When the first rays of light hit her she still held the human even though she felt a slight pain where the sun hit her skin. Small burns, but they were well worth seeing Rhen's sleeping face.

Teijal tried to stay awake, but the need to regenerate became too great. Slowly her eyelids shut as her vampiric need to sleep overcame her. Rhen awoke feeling arms holding her. She tensed before remembering what she had asked of the unpredictable vampire and relaxed. Rhen felt completely rested and carefully crawled out of bed. She slightly grinned before noting the sun peering into the room through the window. Alarmed, she rushed and closed the drapes but the damage had already been done.

Later that day, Teijal awoke with agonizing stings on her neck, face, and arms. Muttering curses of at least five different languages, she painfully sat up on the bed. Who put bandages on her burns? Oh yeah.. her

Speaking of which, the human came in with more wet towels. "Good to see you up Teijal." She sat down on the bed. "So how are you?"

"Stinging as the nine hells. But after a meal, I'll be fine."

Rhen nodded and was silent for a minute. "Thank you for staying with me."

"Anytime Rhen. You only need to ask.....Well I'll be going now... I need some blood."

Both warriors walked to the door and the human opened it. "Well, goodbye."

Teijal nodded before dematerializing into mist and flying away. Rhen stayed near the doorway long after the vampire disappeared into the night. Eventually, she went back inside.

--------------

Teijal found a juicy boar and healed after draining its blood. Seeing the full moon, she remembered her promise and smirked. Oh this was going to be so much fun.

Stealthily she made her way to the man's house. Opening a window, she went into the man's room and slammed the window down waking up the man. Before he could holler for his guards, Teijal took out a dagger and shoved it near his throat growling, "Shout out and I will kill you painfully."

The man shut his mouth, his eyes wide in fear. Teijal removed the dagger, her eyes glowing red and two sharp long fangs noticeable. "Now, where were we.. ah yes.. you're pursuit of Rhen."

The man opened his mouth, only to close it with a snap when he saw the dagger. Teijal grinned evilly as she continued "Now, human, I will give you one warning and one warning only: Stay away from Rhen. If you continue your pursuit, I will be forced to break something else of yours."

She suddenly grabbed the man by the throat lifted him up in the air. She continued to talk while the man tried to break out of her hold. "Now, I could break another arm or a leg, but that isn't fun anymore. On the other hand.." She squeezed slightly causing the man to choke. "..No.. breaking your neck is too simple and not fun." The vampire threw the man onto the bed and pointed the dagger near his lower end. "Now how would you like to be a castrated pig hmm? I'll be honest though, it's been about 300 years since I did this."

With the dagger still positioned, she purred, "So what's your choice human? Continue and become a eunuch? Or stop and still have your 'manhood' intact? Well?"

The man gritted out, "Monster.."

Teijal look offended inching the blade closer causing the man to squirm as she growled, her red glowing eyes narrowing. "Monster me? Now who went pursing like a dog in heat? Who attempted to take a woman by force? No good swine, that would be you. Now, I could be a 'monster' you described and kill you right here along with your entire family. Neither your pathetic guards or money can save you and it would make this night so much more enjoyable for me. But I'm not, I'm actually giving you a choice. So listen little insect: Stay away from Rhen and we'll get along just fine."

Abruptly she turned to the window and opened it. Just before she turned into mist, she threw the dagger right between the man's legs. "Remember.... I can kill you anytime and anywhere I desire. Have a nice night." Having nothing more to say, she dissolved into mist and floated away with a cackle.
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Seeing the vampire's triumphant smirk a few nights later, Rhen shook her head. "How did it go?"

She asked while lowering her sword. She had been practicing in the garden since she couldn't sleep again. The vampire grinned. "Very successful. I don't think you'll be troubled by that insect anytime soon."

"And if he does?"

The vampire raised an eyebrow while her fangs elongated. Seeing Rhen's slightly alarmed expression, Teijal laughed but said nothing further on the matter. The human sighed but gave up on the subject. She had grown quite use to the vampire's rather unorthodox yet highly effective methods. "So, why are you here? One of your 'sudden impulses'?"

"Other than checking up on my favorite human? No reason." Abruptly she appeared in front of Rhen, the vampire's hand cupping her chin gently. "You aren't sleeping well." she murmured quietly, noticing how pale the human was.

Surprised by the vampire's sudden change in mood, Rhen took a second longer than normal to react and pushed at Teijal's hand. The vampire didn't budge, her face turning into a frown. "You're reaction time is also very slow, this is unacceptable for a fighter of your level."

Feeling the human squirming now, Teijal released her and stepped back. Rhen gritted her teeth. "You think I don't know that already? I just can't sleep!"

"Then what if I stay with you until you can?"

Rhen's eyes went wide while she said very intelligently, "...huh?"

"Close your mouth Rhen, you're starting to look like a fish." Teijal commented with amusement. Seeing the human was still in shock, the vampire shrugged. "In your own words, you could 'sleep in my arms'... And since I have nothing better to do these days." She bowed low. "You're own demonic 'teddy bear' at your services madam."

Rhen blushed about to refuse. "Teijal-"

Abruptly the vampire disappeared and materialized again, her arms wrapped around the human from behind. "You cannot refuse my generous offer Rhen." She whispered into the human's ear, holding her close.

Rhen sighed. Really, that vampire could be a stubborn pain of a Deava's behind. But even now, she was already feeling sleepy in Teijal's arms. The human only nodded before leaning into the vampire's hold, the sword slipping from her grip.

Grinning, Teijal lifted the human up easily and carrying her back into the house. Rhen thought of protesting but, after remembering who she was dealing with, said nothing. In silence, the vampire gently laid the human down on the bed. She first closed the drapes before laying on the bed beside Rhen. The human tried to stay awake, her eyes trained on Teijal, but soon she drifted off to sleep. The vampire gently touched the human's face, memorizing how her skin felt. When she was sure the other was asleep, she whispered, "Sleep well Rhen....my blackbird"
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The human awoke alone and cold in bed the next morning. She found a note beside her pillow.

Sorry for not being there but I did not get anything that night. You know how I am when I miss a meal: I turn into a cranky blood-craving lunatic, and we all know moody vampires means chopped heads and missing body parts. Anyway, I'll be back later tonight... if you want.

Teijal

For some reason, the vampire's absences made Rhen's heart hurt a little. Confused, she shook away the feelings and went around to do chores. It was a relief to be able to smell the fresh air without a hazy cloud of insomnia interfering.

---------------

Teijal slowly made her way back to the human, her mind wandering. After the vampire had gotten a meal (several boars this time), she sat on a tree stump starring into the waters of a river nearby.

She looked at herself, a pale white face with cold red eyes. Teijal dabbed one finger into the river, breaking her reflection. She waited as the waters calmed again. Closing her eyes, she heard the faint voices of the night speaking to her, their soft sounds surrounding and comforting her.

The vampire got up, picked up a rock, and threw it at a tree. It smashed into it, shattering and leaving a hole. Fuming, she turned away from the place, its beauty sickening her. She needed to go anyway.

As she approached the house, the vampire could see Rhen talking to man...Lars. His green hair always stood out against the light. Behind a building, she watched them with narrowing eyes, not realizing her hands had balled into fists until she felt her blood run. She looked at her hands and saw blood from where her claws pierced. Looking back up, the vampire saw Lars going into Rhen's home.

Growling, Teijal whipped around and caught a stake two inches from her heart. The beast crushed the stick facing a group of eight humans. Its eyes were blood red and glowing. Dark lethal shadows appeared around it, whispering to the beast to feed, commanding it to kill.

Its mouth curling into a sadistic grin.
-------------

"So, Rhen, how have you been?" Lars placed his hand on the woman's. Contrary to his usual arrogant appearance, he now exuded nervous energy. He still had that confident arrogant look with him, but it seemed more like a mask.

Rhen sighed but allowed the physical contact. "I'm fine, Lars, just tired."

"That's good."

The two stayed silent for a few seconds.

"...Rhen...we've been through nine hells and back. I'm sorry I treated you wrong in the beginning. Wait let me continue. While walking through those hells, I.... developed feelings for you..... I couldn't stop thinking about you no matter what I did. While we were fighting Ahriman, my only thoughts centered on you."

He let out a breath before saying. "I love you Rhen, with all my heart and soul. Please be my wife."

Before the very shocked Rhen could answer, they heard screams from outside.

--------------------------

The thing had shadows wrapped around it as blood and sadistic laughter splattered on the walls. It's eyes glowed a deep crimson red. Beside it, dead men were strewn across the ground. Sensing worthy opponents, it twirled around, casually crushing a skull under its claws.

Rhen looked around in horror and she yelled, "Teijal! What have you done?!"

The vampire shrugged, answering in a silky voice, "They attacked me, I retaliated."

Lars positioned himself in front of Rhen, creating a human wall against the beast. Chanting, he almost finished a spell when the thing twitched an arm.

Suddenly the mage slammed into the wall behind him; his spell dissipated with a fizz. Teijal hissed, "Stay out of this boy." She took a step forward toward Lars who laid slumped against he walls, a bloody smear trailing and disappearing behind his head. Rhen ran before the vampire, her sword raised. She had never seen the vampire use her powers against her friends.

Smirking, the vampire disappeared and appeared right before Rhen, the blade gripped in hand. Ignoring the blade's bite into her hand, she leaned forward and whispered, "Come now Rhen, you know human weapons are useless against me."

Grinning the vampire jumped back. "But enough of this, I promised that idiot death."

Laughter filled the air as Teijal transformed into a bat and flew away.
-------------------------------------------------------------------

Rhen shook her head before checking Lars. He looked alright, but he was going to have one demon of a headache in the morning. Turning her gaze on to the grisly scene before her, the woman cursed. Still swearing, she took off running pass the dead men.

---------------------

Wham!

The vampire smashed through the doors. Before they could react, she slammed her fists into the guards' body and ripped their hearts out. Crushing her bloody trophies, she flew up the stairs and kicked the door down. Seething, Teijal grabbed the man and flung him onto the floor.

It snarled, "I warned you didn't I? Didn't I?!" Suddenly the vampire grabbed both of his arms and pulled sharply.

Snap!

The human screamed.

Ignoring the noise, Teijal announced casually, "But since you're a 'Lord', I think it's appropriate you get an audience!"

Laughing, she dragged her broken cargo up the stairs by an arm. Anyone in her way was brutally cut down as she growled, "Out of my way weaklings! You're Lord's about to part with a precious gift, don't want him to be late do we?"

Once she reached the roof, she lifted the screaming man by his hair so he rose above the ground. "What's with the racket? You should be happy!" Smiling she slammed him onto the hard floor. Cackling, Teijal grabbed him by the leg and lifted him again, this time upside down. Carelessly carrying him to the edge, she hung him over it.

She snarled, "Well, human, how's the view?"

When the man whimpered, Teijal tightened her grip causing the man to scream again. "Come come now, fool, you remember what I promised you yes?"

Through the pain, the human's eyes widened as he watched Teijal retrieve a dagger. "No please-!"

The beast's eyes narrowed as she growled, "You should have thought of that before sending those filthy dogs after me. Did you think I wouldn't carry out my promise swine?"

Her eyes narrowed as she twiddled with the knife. "Now, how should I cut? Hmm? Perhaps a little snip by snip? Or just cut the whole thing off in one go? Seeing as you are indecisive , I'll choose for you!"

---------------------------------------------------------------------------

Rhen ran through the smashed doors and passed the mangle remains of the guards. She climbed up the stairs panting and prayed she made it in time. Slamming through the shattered door leading to the roof, she stopped. The vampire stood close to the edge, no man in sight.

The human approached the vampire slowly, her body tense. "Teijal!"

The vampired whipped around, cold dark eyes directed on the human. "Rhen."

She turned back to look up at the sky. "It's dark tonight."

Tiring of the vampire's games, Rhen gritted her teeth. "Teijal, what have you done with him?!"

Ignoring the question, the vampire merely shifted her eyes back to the human. "It was a dark night when that happen, wasn't it?"

Thrown off track for the moment, the human looked confused. The vampire turned back to stare over the edge as she continued almost in a whisper, "When we met for the first time."

"Teijal, what have you done with him?" Rhen asked again, softly.

The vampire shrugged. "I'm sure you can find him in pieces on the ground below, sooner or later."

Before the human could react, the vampire disappeared in a cloud of mist. Cursing, the warrior heard a moan coming from over the edge. Peering down, she saw the man had been tied up tightly and hung upside down, slowly swinging from the wind. Breathing a sigh of relief, Rhen collapsed onto the ground. This nightmare was over, thank the Goddess.
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Teijal staggered back through Ghed’ahre's gate. Dark gods above, she was tired. Sniffing the air, she also definitely needed a bath. Instinctively feeling the sun rising, she fled to her house. Making sure the drapes were closed, she collapsed on to her bed and sunk into a deep regeneration sleep.
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Rhen flopped onto her bed late in the afternoon. She has to deal with an irate lord, an unconscious Lars, body cleaning, and on top of that a crazy vampire. The human groaned as she rolled over onto her back, arm over her eyes.

"What's going on Teijal?" She asked, receiving no answer except silence.

--------------------------------

Teijal felt a presence in her room and tensed before noting who it was. Relaxing, she got up slowly and turned to the intruder. She greeted,"Elder." before bowing her head slightly.

The old vampire had deep crimson eyes like Teijal. Even though she was over 7000 years old, she still looked only 30.

"Teijal, you know you do not need to use my 'title' when we're alone." The Elder commented, a faint sign of amusement in her eyes. The young vampire shrugged, "Old habits die hard.. Naikja."

The old vampire shook her head, but let it drop. Getting back to business, the Elder's eyes drilled into the young one. "Your Beast broke through."

Teijal's hands fisted but she stayed in silence.

"What happened?"

Teijal turned her head away, suddenly feeling ashamed. ".. I lost control."

"Yes, but why?"

Teijal shrugged, unwilling to answer, eyes still averted. Feeling a hand on her shoulder, the young vampire turned her eyes back onto Naikja.

"Just be careful Teijal."

After the young vampire slowly nod, the Elder turned and left.

Teijal slumped against the bed, head in her hands. Unbidden memories floated up and flashed in her mind.

"That vampire is ours! We made her with our own blood!"

Someone grabbed her arm pulling her toward them. She didn't want to go with them. They were bad people. Suddenly he released her, crying out in pain. Both of his arms were missing. The young girl looked up to her savior, a tall seething one.

In a low voice, it growled, "Stay away from the fledging and tell your 'Lord' she is under our protection. If we see any of you in our territory again, we will destroy you and your lord."

Teijal shook her head and walked out of the house. She needed to feed.

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After tossing and turning for over two hours, Rhen gave up on sleep that night. She slowly got up and massaged phantom pains that haunted her body. Her mind would not stop thinking. Two long nights had past since the killings. Villagers who use to welcome her now watched her with suspicious eyes while she did her daily routines. Lars still needed an answer.

Frowning, the human took her sword up and went into the garden. Sleep could wait.

Closing her eyes, she emptied her mind and relaxed completely. Breathing deeply, she imagined her opponent, a faceless shadow stalking her dreams. She could feel it scrutinizing her, trying to intimidate her with it's featureless head. It circled the human, a sword in it's hand.

Without warning, it lunged and the human instinctively reacted. Quickly turning around, Rhen whipped her sword up blocking the blade. Following up, she retaliated and slashed. The being twisted away from the blade and jumped back, momentarily pausing. It seemed to regard Rhen with more respect as it tilted its head. The human frowned, her sword raised still. What was it up to?

The shadow continue to stare before swiftly saluting Rhen. Confused the human returned the gesture, not entirely certain why. Nodding, the shadow lunged and slashed.

Sweat on her brow, Rhen gritted her teeth as she parried a blow. The human needed to focus on her opponent's body, the faint tell signs of a twitch. Everything now was based on pure instinct alone. She could not second guess her attacks. Ducking, she swung her blade which was more of an extension of her arm. She could never second guess herself for that would mean death.

As a Swordsinger, she instantly processed the fight in her head, relying on her senses completely. It was like a chess game except you don't have time. Surging forward, her eyes spotted an opening and she rushed.

No second chances.

Fwoosh!

A blade fell to the ground with a soundless thud.

Rhen stood tall and smiled.

The apparition smirked, its eyes gleaming with pride. It moved toward the triumphant warrior and gently laid a hand on Rhen's cheek. The human leaned toward the touch, her sword lowered. The shadow moved closer, its features becoming more distinct with each passing second. Slowly, the apparition wrapped its arms around the human and whispered into her ear, "Good job...." Rhen felt cold lips faintly touch hers before the shadow continued, "...my blackbird."

Rhen snapped her eyes open, panting. She looked at her sword before throwing it aside. The warrior wrapped her arms tightly around herself and trembled under the dark sky.

-------------------------------------------

Uncharacteristically nervous, Teijal knocked on Rhen's door lightly. Waiting, she could hear no movement but sensed the human was in. Frowning, she turned into mist, went under the door, and materialized in the room.

There was a scent of alcohol.

Rhen was slumped against the table, a bottle in her hand. Her brow raised, the vampire quickly strode across to the unconscious human. She carefully removed the bottle from the human's weak grasp. Wearily eying the empty bottle of misery, she placed it on the table.

Making sure the other woman was still in a drunk sleep, Teijal lifted her up and carried her to bed. After laying down her precious cargo, Teijal gently caressed the human's hair as she murmured, "...My blackbird, what have you done to yourself?"

The vampire stared at Rhen's sleeping face before her eyes lazily wandered down. Her hand lightly traced the human's neck, feeling the strong pulse. Suddenly, a dark need slammed into her to feed on the human. The vampire wanted to sink her claws into the human's soft flesh and make her scream.

Surprised, Teijal jumped away from the bed, willing her impulses to subside. Her eyes glowed red momentarily before she was able to control it. Growling softly, Teijal shook her head before cautiously stepping forward, ready to flee. Feeling nothing, she concluded the impulse was just an abnormality and ignored it. Moved a chair near Rhen's bed, she sat down. Even though she craved to touch the human again, the vampire forced herself to only watch. What her hands could not do, her eyes and mind did. She noted the humans soft breathing, and absentmindedly wondered what it felt like to breathe. Even though she could smell the alcohol, she ignored it and concentrated on the other scents. To the vampire, the scents reminded her of a perfect night. Curious, she moved her hand above Rhen's body and felt heat.

Human heat.

A few hours before the sun arose, Teijal stood up and quietly moved the chair back. After several more lingering looks at the sleeping human, the vampire lowered her head before turning into mist, and disappearing into the night.

----------------------------------------

Rhen woke up with a blazing headache. Her head pounding, she groaned when there was a knock on the door. The sound painfully reverberated through her skull while she somehow made it to the door and ripped it open.

Gripping her head, she growled, "Before you say anything, Lars, just do something about my head."

"By the Gods Rhen, what were you doing?" Lars exclaimed as he conjured up a spell.

"What does it look like? Seemed a good idea at the time."

"Didn't look like it worked...there that should do it."

Feeling the pounding disappear and her body returning to some semblance of normality, Rhen breathed a sigh of relief. Now able to think clearly she allowed Lars to come in. "So what brings you here?"

"You're welcome. I'm here because I'm worried about you...."

Rhen closed the door quietly with a soft click. Both were looking at that innocent looking bottle on the table. The woman sighed before slouching in a chair. "I don't need you're concern Lars."

"But I worry nonetheless. Why were you drinking?"

The warrior stiffened. "Just stress." She muttered, not quite meeting his eyes. Lars looked doubtful but stayed silent.

"Seriously, it's just stress..."

Lars nodded sitting himself in a seat. The two looked at each other before averting their eyes. Rhen muttered, "Blasted bottle, can't believe I got drunk. I'll never do that again."

Shaking his head, Lars grinned. "Well, now you know better."

"Oh shut it Lars. How's you're head?"

Lars tapped his head as he answered arrogantly, "Just fine, healing spell worked out nicely."

"Ah.."

Looking concern, the mage asked tentatively, "Rhen..has.. she came by yet?"

"..... No...not recently..."

"Well, did you find out who those men were?"

Rhen nodded before standing up and retrieving a blood stained scroll. Tossing it down on the table, she answered tiredly, "Apparently they were hired by that Lord." Staying far away from the bottle, she grabbed a mug and poured herself water.

The mage gingerly opened the scroll. "Wow, she was only worth 4000gold? Thought she was worth more."

Rhen didn't look amused. "Lars.."

"Alright, now we know their motive, but that leaves... her."

Feeling suddenly irritated by the mage's avoidance of using Teijal's name, Rhen snapped, "Lars, Teijal's name is not a taboo. "

Lars rubbed his head as he pointed out, "Yes, but you weren't used as a hammer on an anvil."

Rhen glared at him causing the man to squirm.

Lars put his hands up. "Okay okay, I get it. I don't want to fight with you Rhen."

The other sighed. "I don't want to fight either." Slumping down in the chair with her head in hands, she muttered, "Too many things happened. Not enough time to process."

Nervously, Lars twiddled with his thumbs as he inquired, "Rhen...have you thought about..."

The human sighed softly before answering,"....I need time."

After the mage left, Rhen leaned against the closed door and breathed. She felt suffocated and escaped to the garden. It was always her sanctuary when the world seemed to pressure her from every side. The warrior shuddered when she noticed her sword still laying on the ground. Nearing if slowly as if it would bite her, she cautiously lifted the blade and slipped it quickly back into its scabbard.

The human ran a hand through her hair as she sat on a lonely rock and turned her eyes upward toward the sky.

It was a dark night The human frowned as the memories rose up. When we met for the first time

She remembered Teijal's face where there was not a trace of faint humor, only pure madness and anger. She didn't recognize the vampire at all. Who was she? The human frowned; Rhen really didn't know anything about the vampire. Her heart suddenly ached painfully causing the human to grip her chest. Slowly the sharp pain faded to a dull hurt. The human dropped her head into hear hands and cursed loud enough to scare the birds in the trees.

------------------------------------------

Teijal stalked around her house like a caged animal. Her hands fisting then releasing rhythmically to her pacing.

After leaving Rhen's house, Teijal caught a griffin and twisted it's neck. While draining it, her mind idly wondered how sweet Rhen's blood would be. Was it as sweet as an elf? Or maybe more bitter like an orc's? Suddenly an impulse crashed into her sending her down to her knees. Her fangs unsheathe as the image of Rhen's slender neck flashed through her skull. Blood on her claws, Teijal crushed the carcass while her eyes glowed. kill Kill KILL.

Teijal slammed her fist into the wall smashing a large hole. She didn't notice the blood sluggishly dripping from her wounds as she stood there, staring blankly at the wall. Closing her eyes, she leaned forward and placed her forehead on the wall.

Eventually, she stood away from the wall, a harden look in the eyes. Turning, she headed to the Church to escape her current prison.

It wasn't a place to worship but a place of sanctuary for all vampires. Teijal entered the building and breathed in the cold air. Intimidating statues stood guard on all sides while huge dreary drapes covered the windows. Inside the dark building, she relished it all. Sitting down on one of the chairs, Teijal relaxed. Closing her eyes, Teijal leaned back in the chair and emptied her mind.

She could almost hear the Elder's voice. Remember Teijal, your Beast doesn't control you. You control It.

Taking the words to heart, she looked deep into herself. Navigating a maze of pathways that she only knew, she traveled into where her black heart laid.

There! She could see it! The Beast had wrapped itself tightly around her heart. A fog of shadows, its claws caress her heart while whispering sweet lies. Its jaws grinned, sensing an opening. It only needed to wait for the weakling to succumb to its influences.

Teijal ran and grabbed the parasite ripping it away from her heart. Startled, the thing tore itself away from her hands and landed on its feet, crouched. Snarling, the creature charged at Teijal with its blood soaked claws.

Catching the hands before it ripped out her face, Teijal quickly threw it far away from her before jumping back. Slamming her fist onto the ground, she growled out, "Final Embrace!" Suddenly dark tendrils shot out from the ground and wrapped themselves around the beast trapping it. The creature howled before being gagged by the same black shadows. With a last jerk, the tendrils dragged the struggling thing down into the depths of her being.

Teijal opened her eyes and bolted from her seat. Calming down, she sank back into the seat, staring up at the ceiling. It was done. Slowly everything blurred as she fell unconscious, not noticing her shirt was soaked with cold blood.

Drip, Drip, Drip.

Dark drops of blood stained the floor.

------------------------

Rhen sat atop her horse, breathing in the fresh air. She missed the outdoors so much. The human smiled faintly remembering her parents. They hardly recognize their little girl now. Trotting at at steady pace, Rhen steered the horse toward a cliff that overlooked the valley. Reaching her destination, she got off and tied the horse to a tree. With her hand instinctively on her sword, she walked to the edge of the cliff and looked down. For all her disillusionment, looking out into the horizon lifted a weight from her soul. This was what she, a simple village girl, fought for. She sat down on the edge, legs dangling over.

She fought for this. Sighing, she laid back on the grass, looking up into the sky. What would she fight for? Her hand idly pulled a blade of grass while she blankly watched the clouds roll by.

What was there to fight for?

Her hands clenched into fists.

What was worth fighting for?
-------------------------------------

How do you feel pain, if you're dead?

Teijal wondered briefly as another ripple of agonizing pain shot through her body. Her mouth opened in a silent scream as she writhed on the surface. Suddenly she felt hands hold her down, pushing her down onto her back. Growling she fought against them feebly. There were too many of them! She could hear whispers and voices around her.

Abruptly she felt something slam into her chest, paralyzing her.

Darkness followed.
-------------------------------------

Teijal awoke, her eyes seeing perfectly well in the pitch dark room. She was tired and ached. Where was she?

A voice broke through the darkness. "You almost killed yourself. Took half our blood to treat you. Why?"

Teijal stiffened at the cold voice. "How long was I out?" she quietly asked.

"A night's worth. Answer the question."

"I have my reasons."

"Do they include a particular human with violet eyes?"

Teijal whipped her head around, eyes wide open in shock. Naikja smirked. "Ahh.. the human savior."

Teijal narrowed her eyes.

"Come come now Teijal. You have always shown... affection for to that particular human. Even if your friends do not see it, I know you." The wryly old vampire leaned back in the seat, patiently waiting. "Only a foolish fledgling would have done that before she could. So why did you do it?"

Teijal nearly growled in frustration, there was no way she could fool the old hag. "The Beast dared to threaten a person I... care for. I refuse to allow it to control me any longer."

The Elder's eyes drilled into the vampire. "You are telling me half truths. Why is this human so important to you?"

Teijal glared at Naikja, refusing to say anything. The Elder stared at Teijal, ignoring the glare.
We care for our own even if they are not our blood. Why are you throwing it all away for a mere human?

The young vampire slumped in the bed, unable to keep eye contact. Silence filled the air. Teijal refused to look at the Elder. The young vampire's hands clenched tightly into fists. How could she explain it? Teijal felt a cool hand grasp hers and her eyes quickly rose to meet the Elder's. For a brief second, her emotional walls came tumbling down revealing the fire underneath.

She burned. Accepting the searing pain in her heart, Teijal welcomed the cool touch of the Elder. Crumbling, Teijal sank into Naikja's arms. She didn't try to stop the pain or the tears this time.

She was safe. Teijal didn't need to be strong.

She didn't need to hide.

"I love her.. Naikja..."

Feeling the old vampire's arms tighten around her, Teijal repeated, in a low whisper, "I love her.."

-----------------------------------------
The human stayed there the whole night and into the morning. Even the chilly wind cutting through her clothing didn't discourage her. She watched the sun set and the sun rise. Stiff from the cold, Rhen slowly got up stretching sluggish muscles. It was time to go home. Casting one more glance at the valley, the warrior retrieved her horse, and rode away. She was a fighter, a veteran who had no need for an easy life. She would fight to her last dying breath.

And that suited her just fine.

Quietly, Rhen led her horse back to the stables. After dropping it off, she slowly walked back home, lost in thought. Walking on the familiar path, she noticed someone standing near her door.

Silently groaning, she walked closer and stopped abruptly.

----------------------------------

Teijal hovered outside the door. "Don't live with regrets. They will kill you." Her hands raised, poised to knock.

"Teijal?"

The vampire froze momentarily, before her hand dropped limply. "Rhen.."

The human approached the vampire cautiously. "What are you doing here?"

"I.." The vampire shrugged. "..I wanted to see you."

The two warriors stood awkwardly, unable to maintain eye contact. Rhen took a breath and walked pass the vampire. Using her key, she opened the door and held it open. Teijal nodded nervously before walking through. After Rhen closed the door, the women sat down on the chairs, still unable to look at each other.

The vampire fisted her hands. "Rhen..I..."

She abruptly stood up and walked to the windows, staring out into darkness.

"..Do you remember the ambush?"

Waves of monsters after them. A heavy blade, a heavier arm. Dead bodies everywhere. Still they kept coming, a mindless mass of shadows craving for human flesh and blood. A brief rest. Can't sleep. Too tense. Too afraid. The air smelt of death. Death was waiting for her.

The human flinched as the memory hit her. "Yes."

Still turned away, Teijal continued as if Rhen hadn't replied, "The demons came at us. We had to keep fighting. Eventually, there was a respite. I held you in my arms.. and at that moment I didn't want to let go."

Plunging forward, the vampire spoke, searching for elusive words. "But then we were rescued and everything returned normal. I pushed down that feeling to hold you, to protect you. I saw you get closer to that sorcerer brat."

She nearly growled before calming down, "I buried my feelings for they were painful at times, a stake through the heart while the cursed sun beats upon your corpse kind of pain. I had all but forgotten them.."

The vampire turned to look at the human, crimson eyes meeting violet. "..then we danced for the first time. I was able to hold you again, and those feelings arose again. These past nights... they were as close to heaven as I could possibly reach."

Teijal fisted her hands, eyes narrowing."...I saw you with Lars.... I just lost it. But even through the madness, ..I could rip anything else into shreds but I could never harm you. Rhen, you're my sanity. These feelings.. they will not disappear and I don't want to hide them."

Teijal paused, nails digging into her hands. "I'm in love with you Rhen."
-----------------

Teijal wandered the streets, her mind in complete turmoil.

Teijal's ears painfully heard silence. She should have kept her mouth shut like a good little vampire. Why was she so stupid? Turning abruptly, she fled. The vampire didn't even remember what she said. Silence...door ...a click noise...darkness


The vampire didn't know where she was going, only that she had to move. Walk, run, fly, it didn't matter. She needed to move. The proud vampire would not break down. She would not feel. Then why did it hurt so much? Away. Yes, she needed to go. It was the only way.

See? Only the weak love. You're not weak right my pet?

The vampire growled. No, she would not believe him. Naikja was her master - no teacher - now. She froze when she felt a hand on her shoulder.

------------
Rhen sat stunned for a moment.

The vampire turned abruptly and walked to the door. Before she opened it, she whispered, "I'm.. sorry...Just forget what I said..."
She left and closed the door with a soft click.

Before her mind could comprehend, her body moved toward the door. Ripping it open, she didn't even bother closing it before running down the street. Down an alley, past the bakery, she ran trusting her instincts. She needed to find Teijal.

Arms that could kill her easily held her tenderly. A cold body that wasn't cold at all. Morbid humor that didn't work most of the time.

In a fight, she never second guessed her actions. The human saw a dark figure in the distance.

No second chances.

--------------------------

Teijal could have easily decapitated whoever touched her in her current state of mind. But she didn't. Allowing herself to be turned, the vampire kept her eyes away from the human, fearing what she would see. Rhen's grip tightened as her breathing slowed. The human could feel Teijal trembling.

"Why did you run away?" She asked softly. Rhen cautiously released the vampire who stood slumped, not looking at her. The human touched Teijal's cheek causing her to jerk her head up, red eyes drilling into violet. How could she have not seen it?

Rhen whispered, "I love you too Teijal."

Teijal's eyes widened. "You.. love me?" She asked, unable to believe it.

In answer, the human pressed her lips against Teijal's in a chaste kiss before breaking it, looking into Teijal's eyes willing her to see.

The vampire stood stun for a moment. The human kissed her. Rhen loved her. She wrapped her arms around the human's waist drawing her closer. The two women looked at each other, facades burning away. They were here now, two lonely warriors who would no longer battle alone.

Perfect.

Teijal lowered her head. Just before their lips met, Teijal whispered, "My blackbird."

Lips met again. Arms around each other, their bodies pressed until not a space laid between. Under the starlit sky, two shadows became one.

Rhen broke the kiss, needing to breath. Flushed and panting again, she rested her head on the other woman. Teijal silently held the human, feeling peace for the first time in years.

So this is 'love'. Smiling, Teijal tightened her grip slightly.

It was worth it.
----------------------------------------

Rhen awoke feeling a body pressed into her back, arms holding her. She tensed before remembering last night and smiled. They were safe for now, inside the human's house. Rhen was not as naive to believe that the world would accept them. She doubt even her parents would accept that their little girl was with a female vampire. The human pushed these dark thoughts aside and concentrated on the now. The two would handle whatever the world dumps at them, together.

Rhen turned in the hug, and looked at Teijal's face. She gently touched a cool cheek and lips. Feeling drowsy again, Rhen drifted off with one last thought, ...My vampire...

Eventually, the vampire awoke to an empty bed and hunger. Sensing her human nearby, she got up and walked out the room. Quietly, she leaned on the wall and watched Rhen prepare a simple dinner. She smirked, ignoring the burn in her heart. Grinning, she quickly walked and wrapped her arms around the human's waist. "mmm... my blackbird." She whispered before nuzzling the human's neck. Rhen leaned into the vampire's grip.

"Don't you have some hunting to do Teijal?" She asked quietly.

The vampire raised an eyebrow. "Trying to get rid of me already?" She said with a smirk.

"In your own words, you turn into a 'cranky blood-craving lunatic' when you're hungry."

Teijal mockingly growled, "Fine fine. I'll get something to eat."

The vampire leaned in, "Though I'm definitely having you for dessert."

Before the flushed human could punish her, Teijal disappeared laughing.

-------------------------


End (?).

And if anybody seriously reads this all, well kudos to you. hehe

Leave feedback please! Starving author gotta survive on something {even if it saids,"story sucks!"}! lol.

story sux! xD

Yay for reposting! Thank you! I love how soft and girlie you made Rhen to be.

You know I was joking about the first line above.

*chomps up review* yum thank you. :3

soft and girlie? *reads again* huh, i never noticed I made Rhen like that. :o

Oh well XD

Soft and girlie? What made Rhen soft and girlie? o.O

Magnifico... now to find my person so's she can read. She started reading and then the site died. figures. I'll find her and drag her to the computer so she can read the awesomeness that is BE.

Quote:
i just (re)read this all in one shot. what does that make me?...XD
awesome story. especially the 'end (?)' part; gives me hope for more.

YAYS your story is back up. Now I have a place to go to get a rhenXteijal fanfic fix..hehe

okaaay uh. nice ending.)