Blood Call (syaoran-puu & Queen Regnant) {{18+ Private}}

[syaoran-puu]

Blood Call

 

In a world full of magic, mystery and deceit..... is it possible for something truly magical to form?

Only time will tell, but it will be one hell of an adventure!

 

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WARNING:

This RP may contain violence, gore, rape and other things that some people might consider offensive.

 

The start of this RP has been transferred from a different website (that had PG13 ruling), but things are about to get hot in here!

 

- - - Updated - - -

 

Robert McGregor was lost... yes he was, no matter how much he wandered this cursed land he couldn't seem to catch his bearings, it so do bloody different to the highlands he loved and cherished, and even with his kilt proudly wrapped around him to keep out the worst of the cold he was missing his homeland. Shame he couldn't return... not yet at least, but rumour had reached the highlands of a competition of skill with the reward of so much gold that Robert had set off immediately. Shame that he was now so directionally challenged. At least it was bloody warmer here and he didn't need his extra cloak.

 

Exasperated he ran a hand down his face, his dirk had seen much action as of late, and he was thankful the mountains were at least bountiful to a point, of course that had been until he had passed a small town declaring itself the gate city for the castle... meaning this land now belonged to the sovereign lord of the land and he wouldn't dare hunt in case it was forbidden. That would be just his luck, slaughtered for slaying a bunny. He could see his gravestone already, here lies Robert McGregor, hopping mad to the end. A rustle caught his attention and he froze as his eyes carefully ran their way over the land. Nothing large moved indicating something smaller. Relaxing he carried on. From the few glimpses of the castle he had caught from climbing a tree or two he predicted the place was no more than two days walk... if only he could make the last of his staling bread last perhaps he could get a hearty meal upon arrival? One could hope at least. Right now even broth would be acceptable.

 

The day dragged on, and as booted feet weaved their way through the undergrowth, roots and general forest litter he became increasingly aware of the tiredness that clung heavy to his limbs. And as if conjured by his imagination the smell of something more than just bread wafted enticingly upon the air and drifted towards him. Caught in the scent he found his feet moving before even his brain had caught up to the action. Chatting and laughing and general raucous filled the air and smile spread across Roberts face as he slowed his step. Being only one, and on foot at that, it was easier to hide his presence as he scouted the group. Six horses and six men. A fire in the centre of what was obviously a makeshift camp, something delicious and appetising shimmering over the welcome heat as the group prepared to bed down and share the duties. One of the men... guards?... in particular caught Roberts attention but he dragged his eyes away, even as the leopard he shared his soul with yowl at the sight of the man. Now was not the time to fraternise, and indulging his leopard was not wise in unknown territory... especially with witnesses. No, he had to play this right.

 

From the scent of each man Robert determined they were human, and as such less of a threat to him... of course, if all six came at him at the same time he was screwed... but he was never one to let risk stop him from taking a gamble. He entered the clearing, hands raised slightly to show he was unarmed, or at least not currently wielding. "Ye dornt happen tae hae enaw tae shaur dae ye? Aam oan mah way tae th' castle fur th' contest but aam raither guttin'." (You don't happen to have enough to share do you? I'm on my way to the castle for the contest but I'm rather hungry.) Robert hoped someone at least caught his meaning, if that village he passed through was anything to go by not man Scotsmen passed this way. Not that he could blame them, the mountains called to his Scottish heart even now, even with the brisk wind and chill of the snow he couldn't bring himself to turn his back on his homeland... what a shame he wouldn't be returning any time soon, even longer if he remained empty handed and penniless. No, failure was not an option.

 

He gave his best attempt at a charming smile, many a lass had told him he was a handsome devil... possessed with the luck of the devil... if only they knew how devilish his mind truly was, two guys together may not be acceptable in bonny Scotland but Roberts eyes never lingered long on the fairer sex, at least not long enough to actually do something. Strange then how several claimed to have birthed his bastard.... immaculate conception perhaps? His tussled red hair looked like fire on his head and his green and black kilt was wrapped around his waist and over one shoulder before being held by his family's broach. His green eyes twinkle with play and merriment... but under it all was the body of a man used to harshness, to fighting and labour. He was well defined with muscles though not overly so, and even now they were tensing in preparation to strike should things go south. He wasn't completely Scottish though, his father had come from another place entirely.... not that his looks revealed that, he was grateful he so highly favoured his mother.

[King Regnant]

Two of the men held up their spears towards Robert, but didn't say anything. They only gave a head nod towards the stranger and soon two more of the group stepped forward. One of them was Nico, a young lad who had managed to work himself into a group of soldiers to help with hunts and protection. He was shorter than the rest, but was luckily still within average height. It was obvious that he was fit underneath his leather armor. His face had a softer look to it, especially in his blue eyes yet he still had a strong jaw. It also didn't help that his entire face was covered in a mass of freckles that even covered the edges of his lips. He wore a dark leather hat that covered any hair on his head and strapped to his side was several small weapons such as daggers.

 

Nico was the only one to actually get close, the other three still standing back and preparing to attack if need be. "Excuse me, but I have to check." He muttered to the taller man without even looking at him in the face. A pale hand grasped the other's jaw and turned his head both ways, inspecting the neck. "I don't see anything." He said louder to the others before stepping back and guiding the man to look directly at him. Despite that Nico was young looking, He had been blessed with a cold and unwaving stare. He searched for something in the green eyes before releasing the scottsman and turning away. "He's alive."

 

All the soldiers dropped their weapons and gained wide, welcoming smiles. "You better be careful, wandering around at this time.." Nico warned Robert as he handed him a thick piece of bread and the cooked leg of some sort of bird. "We've been having an awful lot of attacks 'round here. One can't be to careful." His blue eyes stared into the green without even trying to hold back, which felt strange. He gave a small click with his tongue before gesturing to the fire where most of the men had gathered and more kills were being roasted. "Take a seat with us and enjoy. Perhaps new company will ease all our minds."

 

"The competition. Do you know what it is for?" A man asked with raised eyebrows. His skin was tanned and scarred in a few places including over one eye and his hair was a dark dirty black and long, pulled back into a ponytail. "It's to find best warriors in the land to help try and stop the menaces that have begun to flood our land." The man leaned in closer with narrowed yellow-brown eyes. "Vampires. Do you have 'em up there where you're from? Because if you don't, you better be ready for it.. because they're growing in numbers that we can't keep up with. And if we do succeed in driving them out, because god knows we can't kill them all, then they'll be coming for your home."

 

"Ronan! Be quite! Let the man enjoy his meal and the warmth of the fire." Another man scolded, making Ronan give a little scowl. He flopped back into his bag of supplies and tore into his bread. "So you a Scott?" He asked, trying to be casual but that didn't stop a rather wide and mischievous smile to appear on his face. His head nudged in the direction of Nico, who had sat down on a stump. "Nico is from up there."

 

"No I'm not." Nico immediately cut in with an unamused tone. His eyes were at his food, occasionally glancing in the direction of the stranger.

 

"Well, someone was." Ronan said with a huff and raised eyebrows. It was obvious that this was some sort of teasing at Nico, as all the other men were chuckling along.

 

"My grandfather.. a long time ago." Nico grumbled as he nibbled at his bread, hoping that maybe real facts would stop the endless torture. His eyes went back to Robert and stayed, unable to help themselves as they took a shameless glance over the man's body. He had noticed that most men didn't know what a 'check out' was and Nico took full advantage of those who he happened to find attractive.

 

"You should see what's under that hat." As soon as the words left Ronan's lips, there was a distance sound of a twig breaking. All at once the soldiers were on their feet, armed and ready. Ronan sported a sword in each hand, while Nico grabbed a bow. "..They're lurking around close.. I can smell 'em."

[syaoran-puu]

Robert let them manhandle him, even though it wasn't until they examined his neck that he realised what they thought he might be... vampire. Good thing the vampires didn't tend to like the smell of shifters, even if he was only half... and half... other. His homeland was well protected, but he knew he couldn't reveal how they were protected. One leopard with claws and teeth was a lot more useful against the vampires than five humans with steel blades and no clue how to actually do the beasts harm. He remained quiet, smiled softly and tried his best to appear amicable at least, he was hungry after all. "It's alrecht laddie, Ah kin." (It's alright lad, I know.) And he did. He quirked a brow when the guy seemed to openly appraise him and part of him actually wanted to peacock for the guy.

 

"You better be careful, wandering around at this time.." Sound advise from one human to another he supposed, but he was neither. Of course that was his little secret, so he nodded his head and smiled slightly though it likely looked more of a smirk. "I'll keep 'at in min' laddie." (I'll keep that in mind lad.) He gave the guy a wink, even as he took the offered bread and meat, his stomach rumbling and growling in anticipation and appreciation. He was going to savour this! It was a bird of some sort but he could have cared less what kind of flesh it was right now.

 

Just listening he nodded at a appropriate times as he filled his mouth full of the juicy meat. He knew he likely looked like he hadn't eaten in days, and in many ways he hadn't. His leopard needed meat, needed it like his human needed air to breath. Taking a seat he turned his head to look at a scarred and tanned fellow... could he see through that eye or was the scarring too great he wondered? "Do you know what it is for?" He cocked his head for a moment then swallowed and replied, "Ah hae an idea, och aye." (I have an idea, yes.) Listening he found part of his earlier assumption was true, though he hadn't predicted the vampires... he had just thought the king was planning a war or something, either way.... "I'll dae what's needed sae lang as Ah can gie mah hans oan th' prize bunsens." (I'll do what's needed so long as I can get my hands on the prize money.)

 

Part of Roberts mind whispered that he shouldn't be mentioning his own intentions, or at least part of them... but it was too late now. With mild amusement he grinned as another fellow scolded the last before turning to look at Ronan again with a look that clearly stated, 'Isn't that obvious?' "Och aye aam a Scotsman, tartan wearin', belchin', whiskey drinker 'at Ah am." (Yes I'm a Scotsman, tartan wearing, belching, whiskey drinker that I am.)

 

Turning to look at Nico he couldn't help but grin, so the one that had caught his interest earlier was partly related to his homeland? Did that mean he was a shifter? Or from one of the human clans? He held his tongue either way but couldn't hide his curiosity or appreciative glances he gave the guy. What the hell was with that helmet? As if echoing his own thoughts Ronan voiced them. He was curious to ask, maybe even tease the guy and add in a dash of flirtation just to see how accepted that would be. He would back off if the answer was not at all.... but the opportunity came and went in a blink of an eye as all at once everyone stood up.

 

Inhaling deeply he picked up the familiar scent of nearby vampires. A pair if his nose was being accurate despite the pleasant distraction of cooking meat and freshly broken bread. Yes, he was thinking with his stomach... and damn he couldn't muster the mindset to feel guilty about it. Standing to he stuffed his mouth full of the remaining meat as he looked around and pulled his dirk free... it would be so much easier if he could just shift to animal, but that wasn't an option right now. He would settle... then maybe he could eat some more meat? Yep, that had the desired motivating effect.

 

"I'll tak' tae th' trees an' gie a better swatch." (I'll take to the trees and get a better look.) Doing just that he put his dirk between his teeth and took to the trees, it was times like he was thankful that his tartan was green... good camouflage, of course, if anyone looked up as he swung himself up onto the first branch they would have being able to note that he was indeed a true Scotsman. Green eyes scanned swiftly, coupled with his heightened animal senses. His moved to two other trees before dropping back to the ground with the silent grace of a predator, he gazed up at Nico -who he conveniently found himself next to, he smirked. "Tois. tae th' west, abit a hunder metres, nae e'en botherin' tae hide their presence." (Two. To the west, about a hundred metres, not even bothering to hide their presence.) Idiots, had they forgotten that there were other things than humans in the world? Especially in wooded areas! Vampires were better suited to towns and villages in Roberts opinion. Of course, it was possible that the creatures were being converted without care... idiot makers, it wasn't like the old days were they were actually given a lesson about the order of the world and how to bloody survive. The fact that they had revealed their existence and were now on a Kings radar was evidence enough of their stupidity. Getting to his feet he glanced around the group, dirk back in hand, as he headed off -rather fearlessly, if he did think so himself- in the direction of the vampires. Now that he was hunting, and there really wasn't another word for it, his steps were careful and measured, no noise enumerating from then as he weaved his way expertly through tree roots, fallen branches and growing plants, it was clear to anyone watching that he was clearly used to travelling in the wilderness.

 

He glanced back to spy a few of the other guards following though he was only actually interested in one... Nico. He didn't get to look for long when his attention was forced front and centre again.

 

"What do you mean I can't have children now? You said if I let you do this Gregor that I would be stronger and better!" A whining female vampire? Would wonders never cease to amaze? What happened to the ruthless dominatrix types he had grown accustom to? Whatever. It seemed they weren't even paying attention... idiots.

 

"Shut the hell up Gloria! We need to find something to bloody eat and I'm fed up of your f*cking whining! Grow a spine woman and get over it...." The creature paused and Robert was positive it was because he had scented blood... or perhaps just picked up on his unusual shifter scent. BRING IT ON! He was ready for a fight, itching for it really.

[King Regnant]

As Robert took a glance back, Nico held his gaze. He was supposed to be watching the area but whoever this stranger was was to enticing not to watch with full interest. No one else seemed to hear the voices except Robert, Ronan and Nico himself. It only proved that the three was really that just better, or the guards were just tools. His grip on the bow tightened slightly as he planned out his attack in case he ran out of arrows, thinking of all the daggers still attached to his legs.

 

"Quick, Nico! Take your hat off!" Ronan suddenly stated with such a serious tone, that it took the man off guard. Nico's eyebrows rose quickly and he gave a confused look that said 'What? Why?' After that, the shittiest little grin appeared once again over Ronan's face. "It will distract them for us! No one can look directly into it!" The color that rose to Nico's face was caused of a mixture of anger and embarrassment, his freckles growing darker and darker from the blush.

 

"You don't need to worry 'bout them." Ronan murmured to Robert with a strange look, his eyes narrowed and almost accusing. "Two is nothing.. Keep on the look out for more though. They're never really alone - bastards have started to travel in large numbers know that they know they have some competition. I don't like surprises." Ronan dashed forward without a second thought and without care that any of his men would follow him. It wasn't uncommon though. There was a reason that this group of soldiers had managed to live so long compared to the others.

 

Nico glanced towards the Scottsman and sighed with a frown. "Ronan enjoys killing vampires more than he appreciates the air he breathes. Honestly, most of the men here would be dead if he wasn't stupid and charged into battle every time." The sounds of screaming came a moment later and Nico frowned a little bit. "I hate when it's women though.. Even if they are vampires." Perhaps his home-teachings were to entwined into his brain. "What is your name?"

 

"You know, you don't have to do this with us. You aren't considered one of the King's henchmen yet." Nico stated with a blink. "Unless you're the type that enjoys it, like Ronan." Just as mentioned, the scarred man stepped out of the clearing. In his hands were the heads of the vampire couple, carried by their hair. Bood was splattered all over him from the kill and there was a few wounds to add to his collection, but he didn't seem to mind at all.

 

"Burn the bodies." All at once, the other guards finally did something and hurried into the forest where the corpses lay. Nico made a face at the other man and frowned at his condition. "You know you're going to get yourself in trouble if you keep doing that. A human can only do so much."

 

"I don't really care. I know what they can do and can't. Try their hardest and I can still smell 'em.. I know where they are. I'll kill every bastard that I can, with or without the help of these idiots." Ronan said simply with a shrug of his shoulders. Slowly though he turned to face Robert with the same look as before; accusing and almost angry. "I am curious however..as to what is running through your blood."

 

"Ronan."

 

"What, can't you smell it? I didn't before because of all the meat cooking on the fire, but now.."

 

"Not everyone has that damned nose.. and keep in mind that not everyone is out to kill in the name of their own kind. You should know that as well as anyone." The younger said flatly, his eyes glaring at Ronan as a way to tell him to shut up.

 

As Ronan walked away, Nico let himself smile slightly at Robert before motioning back towards the camp. "There's more food if you want. Hunting is one of the only things to do out here and so we have plenty of kill to share. If there is more of them around us, they'll be scared by the smell of fire and death.. at least for a little while." His eyes lingered on the man's face a few seconds to inspect it. It was actually pleasant to look at, unlike how he was normally only attracted to the body and build under the clothes. Not that he wouldn't have protested a peak or anything then..

 

"And.. if it makes you feel any better, I don't think you smell weird." Nico tacked on a moment later hesitantly.

[syaoran-puu]

Robert was more than happy to hold Nico's gaze, even as he took a moment to attempt to figure the guy out. Would the man even be interested in an advance from another man? One too many times he had put his foot in his mouth and made an advance were one wasn't welcome... it had made him a little... cautious. Though unlikely too cautious to let such a tasty looking morsel out of his sight.

 

Despite already being on the move he couldn't help the small grin that filtered over his lips at the teasing from Ronan. "Quick, Nico! Take your hat off!" He was growing curious about the guys hair, but he was beginning to suspect it was bright orange or something similar. After all the hints he had been given so far could only give so many options... that or maybe the guy was bald? Only that didn't exactly tie him into any stereotype of a Scottish lad that Robert knew.

 

The quickly healing scar on his shoulder reminded him that it hadn't been all that long ago since his.... he growled under his breath, not even wanting to think about it, not right now at least. Robert didn't say anything, simply watched as Ronan and Nico conversed, not at all oblivious to the occasional glance that Nico sent his away, especially after his friend left. A human who enjoyed killing vampires? Not entirely unusual, but from experience he knew it often led to a good story... what story did Ronan have? And why did his leopard hold interest towards it? As if it were... important? He shook it off and patted Nico loosely on the shoulder when the guy seemed genuinely disturbed at the idea of a female being injured or killed. That was not something Robert could completely understand, in his experience females were just as deadly -in several cases even more so- than the males. Vampiric females were notoriously vicious, though that one hadn't particularly seemed so.... curious and curiouser?

 

"What is your name?" He considered the guy for a moment, genuinely considering if he should reveal his identity or not. There was power in a name after all. After a moment he did answer though, his brogue thick. "Robert McGregor" Once again he listened and an honest grin spread over his lips. "Ah cannae claeem tae nat enjoy killin' them. But Ah hae mah reason laddie. Dornt we aw? caa mine mair selfish than most." (I can't claim not to enjoy killing them. But I have my reason lad. Don't we all? Call mine more selfish than most.) He may be finding himself somewhat trusting towards the guy, the attraction perhaps?, but even with that in mind he still wasn't likely to reveal too much. Right now all he was looking for was a possible romp in the bushes and then moving on to do what he had to. Wasn't that always the way? Duty. Duty. Duty. That seemed to be all his life was ever about these days... and he hated it!

 

Turning his head he watched as Ronan appeared relatively unharmed. Impressive he mused, even as his eyes examined the guy more closely. Now that his blood was flowing freely from freshly cut wounds he was sure he would scent something, and underlying scent, a half... something? It was most definitely mostly human... with a dash of... something.... mixed in? Or was it possible that humans were evolving? Especially in areas like this where paranormal's seemed to thrive and threaten their very existence? All things were possible, of that he knew. Maybe one day he would even be blessed to find his mate, even if there were those who believed it impossible for a man who preferred the company of his own gender?

 

Such thoughts were eradicated from his thoughts when Ronan got closer and spoke. "I am curious however..as to what is running through your blood." Ah! Heightened senses? His eyes flashed, his cat rising to the surface as his eyes turned gold and the irises became slitted. The transformation only lasted for a mere heart beat, less than that really, less than even a blink. It was simply a single flashed image as his inner cat felt threatened. He didn't speak, didn't need another indiscretion against his name with his own kind than he already had.... still he was curious what this pair would do if his secret was revealed. Would they turn on him too? As if he was no better than the vampires they obviously stalked. It then occurred to him that he had noticed, but not really noticed at the time, that when the vampires had first been heard only himself, Ronan and Nico had really heard anything... what was so specially about the pair? Even as his mind lingered and wondered about the sanity of his plan, about the stupidity it took to walk knowingly into a human fortress knowing that he was other. He had to be a bloody fool... or desperate.... right now he knew he was both What seemed a little odd however was that as he allowed himself to refocus and look on Nico that the guy actually seemed to be... defending him? Mildly at least.

 

He didn't answer Ronan's question, didn't say a word in fear that it came out as a chuffed growl rather than actual words. Stress was never conductive to his control after all. "Cheers laddie, but ye dornt hae tae... Ah hae gain longer wi' far warst than breed an' water afair." (Thanks lad, but you don't have to... I have gone longer with far worst than bread and water before.) Not that it was anything he wasn't to relive, not by a long shot. Of course, despite his brave words, he was not about to turn down the prospect of meat when he didn't have a guarantee about how long it would be until his next decent meal. Curious he found himself asking; "Diz th' kin' allaw huntin' in these woods? ur only fur his men?" (Does the king allow hunting in these woods? Or only for his men?) Maybe the answer would stop him from making a pig of himself this night? Or not. He wasn't that lucky.

 

"And.. if it makes you feel any better, I don't think you smell weird." Pausing in his stride he allowed the obvious attention of the guy, the inspection... platonic? Gods he hoped not! The guys words made him almost.... hopeful, especially as a grin spread over his lips and he quirked a brow as he looked at the guy with open approval. "Ah, Ah see. weel..." (Ah, I see. Well...) He did something risky then and reached out, his hand clasping firmly yet gently on the guys chin as he allowed his thumb a single swipe over the guys creamy skin. "Mebbe ye jist need tae come closer an' gie a guid auld sniff?" (Maybe you just need to come closer and get a good old sniff?) He was clearly losing his mind if his own words were anything to go by, but in that moment, nothing would have been able to draw his attentions away. He looked into the others eyes, endless pools that he suddenly wanted to drown in.... to go home in... an odd thought towards a guy you had just met but it was there all the same.

[King Regnant]

Nico's eyebrows shot up for a moment when he felt his chin be grabbed. His whole body felt a rush of warmth and the tips of his hidden ears became a dark pink. The freckles splattered all over his face became darker as well from the subtle warmth in his skin. Thank god he didn't blush like some sort of woman. It would only make his embarrassment that much more... embarrassing.

 

He needed to be careful, he knew that. There were plenty of men that would purposely lure his type and then try and rid of them. It had happened to several men that had actually fancied him in the past. The thought made his jaw tighten for a moment, but he still couldn't bring himself to pull away or even break the gaze the two men were sharing. His heart had begun to thump harder and was ringing in his ears. Admittedly, Nico was the type to go for what he wanted.. but he also wasn't used to a man accepting and returning an advance to eagerly.

 

"..Maybe I need a little more than a sniff." The words left his lips slowly, carefully but curiously. His body moved on it's own instincts and he took a step closer, almost as though a challenge. One of his eyebrows rose a little and Nico was sure that his chest might be hammering loud enough for Robert to hear it as well. It was from a mixture of excitement and anxiety.

[syaoran-puu]

Robert would be the first to admit that he was surprised, surprised that he wasn't currently getting his arse handed to him and a spew of foul obscurities tossed at him for being so daring. What surprised him even more was the guys reply. The way he responded. The cute pinkened tips of his ears, the way the striking colour seemed to spread a little down the guys cheeks and highlight those fantastic freckles. Robert wanted to know how far down those little brown speckles went... what other secrets the guys clothing hidden... and he wasn't ashamed at how readily his body reacted, his arousal thick in the air.

 

"Is 'at reit laddie? 'en by aw means, come tak' whit ye want." (Is that right lad? Then by all means, come take what you want.) His voice was husky, a slight almost feline purr rumbling in the final word. In many ways they could be his famous last words, he could find himself about to receive a face full of knuckle sandwich.... but right now he was willing to take the risk. There really was something about the guy, and as he inhaled deeply he found he even found the guys scent appealing.... even as a mischievous smirk crossed over his lips... he wanted to roll Nico in his scent, make sure the guy was marked just for the fun of it....

 

Wait? Mark him? What the hell was going on?

 

Robert didn't allow himself any time to consider, knowing that if he did he would likely regret it and change his mind... and right now he wasn't about to stop the course this shockingly intimate interaction seemed to be taking.

 

Feeling bold he pulled Nico the remaining distance into his arm, nuzzling to guys cheek, his breath breathing hotly on the guys pink ear before he leaned down and whispered softly, almost seductively; "Ye shoods ken.... Ah loch mah men hot as liquid fire in mah arms." (You should know.... I like my men hot as liquid fire in my arms.) There was no going back no, no misunderstanding or pretending he meant something else... until that point there had been several interpretations to his words and actions... now there would be none, no excuse he could give. He kissed the guys upper cheek, daring to take just a little more before the explosion he was half expecting to happen to happen.

 

The taste that exploded on his tongue floored him.... holy hell! This guy tasted amazing! He wanted more! Needed more! His cat rubbed against his flesh, begging to play, wanting to enjoy the scent, to mark, to growl, to purr in satisfaction.... it wanted so badly that again Robert was taken aback, never had his leopard become so excited at the prospect of a lover alone.

[King Regnant]

The kiss on his cheek made him blink in surprise, his cheeks turning a bit pink. His eyes quickly cast downward in attempts to regain himself. It was more intimidating feeling than he had expected - nothing like the usual quick men he had grown accustomed to. One of his hands reached up to grip the front of Robert's kilt that hung over his shoulder, his body feeling suddenly light and unstable.

 

Finally he turned his head and pressed his lips directly onto Robert's firmly. He pulled away after only a few seconds, but only to register the fact that he had actually done it. A smile tugged at the corner of his mouth just before he reconnected the kiss. The second time, it was harder and less shy. A hot, desperate breath escaped through his nose and his hands gripped the top of Robert's shoulders. The sudden rush that went through his body was more intense than he had ever felt. His mind went blank and any cares were tossed to the side.

 

It was all interrupted when he heard the sounds of footsteps approaching. A small, almost pathetic whimper escaped his throat as he forced himself to part with the larger male and looked in the direction of where whoever was coming. His chest was rising and falling heavily and his eyes had become glossed over lightly. It only happened for a few seconds, but it felt like hours to Nico. His body craved attention after such a long time with another, and the way Robert made his blood rush only made it that much worse.

 

Soon one of the soldiers popped from behind a tree and smiled at the pair. "We were wondering where you guys were! Thought a vampire might've snuck up on you."

 

"Where is Ronan?" Nico immediately asked, his words biting slightly as he felt a surge of annoyance. It was his luck to be caught in the middle of such an... important moment.

 

"At the camp.. He's the one who sent me."

 

"Of course he did... fucker." The last word was grumbled under Nico's breath. His eyes went up to Robert silently even as he spoke to the guard. "We're coming." The guard scampered off ahead and Nico began the slow walk back towards the camp. "..I hate leaving things unfinished. Stay with us tonight and enjoy the free meal." He glanced over his shoulder towards the man again. "And then when everyone is making their rounds tonight, we won't have to worry about being interrupted."

 

Ronan stared at Nico with his eyebrows furrowed together when they returned to the camp. His gaze was accusing, curious and annoyed all at the same time. He tore at a piece of bread and chomped down on it as though he were child being forced to eat his vegetables. "You smell like him." He grumbled under his breath in between chews. "Like a damned feline.." None of the other guards were paying attention. They were to busy getting ready for the night ahead.

 

"You'll get over it." Nico said with a shrug as he sat down in his previous spot. He proceeded to untie his armor, carefully taking it off so that he wearing only his tunic, pants and boots. It wasn't his turn to guard that night, so he got to be free for a few hours. A bit hesitantly, he pulled off his hat last. It would be silly to prepare to bed with it still on, right? It unleashed a headful of thick, wild curls that were firey orange. They had a healthy glow that didn't help to make them any less subtle. They had been cut short, yet it didn't work to try and calm them.

[syaoran-puu]

It was a rather pleasant sensation when Nico turned and kissed his lips, the first was a mere brush of lips, almost distant... like the kiss you would bestow upon a parent... and when the guy pulled away Robert could even make out the slight surprise that flickered like a candle in Nico's eyes. Eyes that Robert found to be so beautiful... was that a fleck of colour in them? Now that he was closer he had to wonder how he hadn't noticed the colour before. The second, returning kiss was far more filled with the wow factor... a prelude to what was to follow...

 

Robert found himself cursing under his breath as he too heard the voice and pulled away. He crossed his arms and all but glowered at the men even as he returned his gaze to the forest and scanned it, pretending he was simply standing guard all this time. Ridiculous notion since he was so hard he was sure he could pound nails right now.

 

"We're coming." Not yet, he mused in his mind, cursing that it had turned completely dirty under their circumstances. Control yourself Robert! He chastised himself even as joined Nico in returning to the guys camp. Listening once more to the guy he couldn't help but grin, "Och thes is far frae finished laddie. But Ah can bide mah time..." (Oh this is far from finished lad. But I can wait...)

 

Once they reached the camp they split up, Robert taking a perch opposite Nico, his eyes straying to look at the guy every now and then. He didn't miss the accusation in Ronan's eyes and couldn't help but wonder... lover? Why would Nico allow his advances if he already had a stable lover? Or was it not serious between them? More lovers of convenience? Or maybe he was on the wrong route here and they were nothing more than brothers-in-arms?

 

His eyes narrowed though when he heard Ronan speak, his eyes darting to look directly at the man, his jaw clenched tight as he forced himself not to comment from his perch across the fire. No human could have heard the hushed words after all... but Robert decidedly not human. His expression clearly stated that he had heard Ronan and that he was less than happy about it. The guy had used the word feline like it was an insult, which in itself was insulting to Robert. After all... he was was a feline, a mighty leopard when he let his animal free. Once more the creature paced within the boundary of his skin and he became all too aware that he would soon need to allow it out for a run or risk shifting at the worst possible moment.

 

Of course, what surprised him more was the fact that it seemed Nico also sensed his feline ancestry, and once again he wondered about the guys own origins... was he one of the mountain shifters? Or at least descendant from them? Evidently not a feline given the way Ronan spoke.... what the hell was so wrong with cat shifters anyway? Robert was rather proud of that trait... it was his other side that he was less than pleased about, the side that had made him a freak among his own people for years.

 

Robert had to try not to let the sight of Nico removing his armor distract him, even as he spoke blandly with one of the guards who had taken perch beside him and passed him a leg of something, he didn't exactly care what right now.

 

Keeping his attention only half on the conversation and half on Nico he asked the guard. "Thenk ye, sae hoo mony vampires hae ye seen sae far haur?" (Thank you, so how many vampires have you seen so far here?) Perhaps it would an opportunity to figure out what he was up against at least. It didn't really matter he supposed... he would be entering that competition either way.

 

"No idea what you're even saying man... vampires? That's pretty much all I caught!" The guy laughed and it was anything but music to his ears. "The filthy things litter this place. I'm pretty lucky to be on psycho Ronan's side since he does most of the hard word, most of the other units take at least two causalities and fatalities a month but ours fares much better than that." He laughed again and the sound went straight through him. From the corner of his eye he noticed Nico undoing the straps on his helmet, was he about to see the infamous distracting hair? "You know they say he is part berserker or something, fights like he has the strength of ten men! And he fights like an angry bear on steroids!" Evidently the guard found this comparison to be amusing as he was laughing once more... it was at that moment that Nico revealed his mop of ginger curls, even cut short the curl couldn't be disguised, the unruly mop of hair went off in all directions, not helped at all by the fact that he had been wearing a helmet for Gods only knew out long. A face splitting grin spread over his face as he winked at the guy before turning his attention mostly back to the guard again. Evidently he approved of the smile as he slapped Robert on the back, gaining a growl from Robert, even as he continued talking as if there had been no reaction. "Like that do ya? Don't let him hear ya say it though!" Too late mused, pretty sure that Ronan had heard the guy himself. "Ah see." (I see.) Was all he said, more than sure that if he said too much the guy would simply claim that he couldn't understand again... how boring. This was the downside with travelling outside of the highlands.

 

The night progressed, he watched the guards play poker, talk among themselves, take it in turns to patrol the area, and roast more meat than he had seen in a while. Just how much did these guys need to eat? Not that he was complaining, he was rather enjoying the plentiful bounty, even if he was being conscious of not eating too much... after all, he wouldn't want a stitch during the evenings activities. With that he grinned and turned to face Nico again, getting up he made his way as nonchalantly as he could muster to the other side of the fire. He took a seat next to Nico though he spoke to Ronan first. "Seems ye hae quite a reputation amang yer men ronan. interestin' 'at a human coods lest thes lang bein' as frivoloos as ye ur wi' strategy." (Seems you have quite a reputation among your men Ronan. Interesting that a human could last this long being as frivolous as you are with strategy.) Robert wouldn't ask questions though, especially not here, it was none of his business really after all. "Ah jist hiner 'at a body day ye dornt bite aff mair than ye can chew... aw cats hae claws efter aw." (I just hope that one day you don't bite off more than you can chew... all cats have claws after all.) It wasn't so much a threat as a reminder, and one that everyone here would do wise to learn. He would and could fight if he had to.... even against them.

[King Regnant]

Nico glanced up at Robert as he was joined by him, smiling just ever so slightly. At some point he had been handed a canteen of alcohol and it had been resting happily in his hand since. Ronan was in no better shape as he would take large chugs of the drink without care. It at least seemed to cheer him up over his pouting and he was back to wearing the crooked grin he had previously been sporting upon Robert's arrival.

 

"Cats aren't the only ones with claws, friend." Ronan responded immediately to Robert in a calm, casual tone. He gave a warm smile at the other as he swirled his drink around in it's container. His free hand wiped away from of the fried blood from his skin where his wound had been, which had already healed into small fine scars. "Don't take me as an enemy." He suddenly tacked on with steady yellow eyes staring in the cat's direction. " I'm just not a cat person, you know?"

 

"In the end.. we're all just wolves amung sheep, wearing their skin." Ronan's attention went to the fire as he spoke, his thoughts becoming more intense as his voice becoming lower and disappearing. He took one last swig of his drink, finishing it off and tossing the empty can into one of the sacks of supplies. "One day I'll be old and tired and ready to lay down and finally enjoy the sleep that I so deserve.. but until then, I will use my years to try and find a way to enjoy my existence.. Being reckless and battling is one of my few joys."

 

"Ahh, I'm sleepy.. I think I'm going to retire to my tent. Maybe rub one out. You guys know what to do." Ronan asked as he stood up and stretched, his eyes going to the other guards who were still close to camp. His attention went back to the pair sitting beside eachother and he jutted a finger in Nico's direction. "I swear to god, if I hear anything tonight.. I'll kick your ass. Every single time, you make such a ruckass that it keeps me up. I need my beauty sleep."

 

This time it was Nico's turn to gain a shitty grin. "You're the one with the ears. Plug 'em up." A low growl rumbled in Ronan's throat in response, but it didn't sound threatening. Just like more pouting. The scarred man rubbed at his long hair that was beginning to fall from it's tie. "Good night all.. Seeya in the morning." And he soon disappeared into his tent. The silence that followed made Nico glance down at his canister and then up at Robert.

 

He already had goosebumps on his skin, not from the cold but from excitement. His smile grew to reveal his teeth and a small laugh escaped him. "He isn't a bad guy.. Just lost like the rest of us." He offered the drink as he spoke and scooted a bit closer.

[syaoran-puu]

Regina smiled as best as she could, though she knew it didn't reach her eyes. She looked up at Fire and tried not to pout. She hated being stuck in her small form; let alone being trapped in this stupid lantern like she was a flickering fire... ok, so she may actually glow a little and the irony wasn't lost on her... but she HATED it! The desire to stomp her feet and scream was actually a possibility. Still.... "I know you aren't to blame Fire. So please stop giving me the puppy dog eyes already." Fire had been her friend for a long time, her tribe had disowned her after an... incidence... totally not her fault, ok, maybe a little... but she had ended up in he dragon clan and befriended by Fire. If only they had stayed in the mountains she wouldn't currently be stuck here.

 

Glancing around she looked for their current captor, a stupid human by the name of Esmeralda, who called their child Esmeralda these days? Maybe that was the truth as to why the bitch was so heartless and blood hungry. "You know that's not true Regina." The guy was consistent, she could at least give that to the guy.... in many ways she knew he was to blame, but she would never do that to him, after all he hadn't forced her to go alone with this and shrink, she could have escaped... but the idea of leaving her friend, her brother, to fare alone against that evil bitch was also not an option. "We'll get the key back Fire... we will... that bitch has to make a mistake one day, and the closer we get to wherever the hell it is she is dragging us... well, soon Fire. Just hold in there!" She reached up through the gap in the metal and squeezed his thumb. With a smile he nodded at her and moved to sit on the ground, holding the lantern close as he always did. As if he would always protect her. Odd really. A dragon and a fairy, committed to each others happiness but not in a relationship... he was more like a brother to her, could never see him in any other way than platonic, but it was still the truth. She would do anything for her dragon.

 

Moving to sit on the base of her cage, on a scrap of fabric that Fire had tore off his shirt for her, she got herself comfortable (or as comfortable as she could muster in this thing), "Where did bitch-face go this time? I swear if I ever get out of this thing I will show her just how mean I can be!"

 

This seemed to make Fire laugh, his whole face lighting up as he looked down at her with a mischievous glint in his red eyes that she hadn't seen in a long while. "What you going to do Re? Bite her? I bet she is quaking in her heels."

 

Sticking out her tongue, and trying not to smile she snapped playfully, "I'll have you know that I have one vicious bite, come closer scaley-arse and I will show you." They both grinned at that, she was the only one who could get away with calling him that... just like he was the only one who got away with calling her pipsqueak.

 

Their laughter and joy instantly died when they heard the now all too familiar clip-clop of heels... who the hell wore heels in a forest? Seriously? What did Bitch-face think she was doing? Whatever, Regina hoped she fell flat on her arse and broke something on the way down... like her neck!

 

"Stop lazing around pet, I have need of you. We're getting closer now... can't you smell them!" There was only one word that Regina would use to describe the bitch's smile... feral. Ok, it was officially, they were being dragged around by a crazy person... a crazy person who even now wore Fires key on a chain around her neck. What a shame they couldn't just take it... the magic on it prevented that. Dang it! Why couldn't they run into a witch when you actually needed one?! Stupid old hags! Ok, so Regina was just fed up and bitter now... sue her!

 

Her wings fluttered as she hoovered in the cage, her glow intensifying a little with the use of her magic. "Are you ever going to tell us where the hell you are dragging us!" Ok, so she didn't expect to hear an answer, didn't expect to actually get a response since bitch-face generally just ignored her anyway. It was Fire she wanted, Regina was just a darn consolation prize. Well too bad, she wasn't going anywhere!

 

To her utter surprise bitch-face turned and looked directly at her! Holy shit! She froze, her wings stalling as she fell to the base of her cage and landed with a loud thump! Once again she saw the feral smile, and crap crap crap! Bitch-face was getting closer! Her heart thundered, and for a moment she forgot that Fire was with her. Fire would protect her. "I....I...." No words came out, what the hell was she meant to say! This was one scary-arsed human!

 

"You want to know where we are going? You'll regret knowing though... you still sure?" The mocking was clear, and suddenly Regina feared the answer. She didn't speak, knowing that Esmeralda wasn't really asking, simply using rhetorical questions to make it appear as if they had a choice. One thing she had learnt being stuck in this cage... right now she had no choices! "Two years ago my group set a trap. We put something in the water around the Castle not that far from here, the stuff would slowly make the blood of the humans who ingested it become devastatingly tempting. It's like a beacon to them, calling them all to that point.... the fools don't even know it! Now, with the help of dragonfire I will set the whole kingdom a blaze and rid the world of the vampire scourge!

 

Wait! Was this bitch crazy! Ok, so she knew the answer to that... but she was planning to exterminate an entire race? Or near enough at least! Why?! Even Vampires had good and bad... they just needed blood to survive and so had a bad reputation! But what would happen next? Who would be this groups next target? Dragons? Fairies? Shifters? No! It would never end, they would start a war! Paranormal against paranormal! And for what? A moments peace before the real storm began!

 

Shaking her head she whimpered slightly. "No! You can't... you can't do that... so many will... you... can't..." The tears started to fall then, unable to hold them back anymore.

 

"WHAT MAKES YOU THINK I WILL DO THAT!" Fire roared! Getting up and jolting Regina a little too much he got into the human's face, his body growing a little, his horns elongating and twisting.

 

At that the human just laughed and pulled the key from her bossum, a knowing smirk on her face. "You will do it dragon.... or you will never get this back... never be able to unlock whatever this unlocks. It is important to you though... and I could care less about it. So. You do as I say or I will have this key destroyed and kill your little fairy while I'm at it. Don't believe me? Try me! I will show you just what the human race is made of! You are just scum! And one by one I will see you all destroyed... but right now.... I need you... so behave pet before I change my mind and find another way to destroy this worthless place!" By the end of her tirade she was all but screaming, Regina was cowering as close to Fire as the cage would allow, her little hands reaching out and grabbing whatever fabric was in reach as he body shook.

 

The rage she could feel coming off of Fire in waves was not making her nerves settle any... they needed to get out of here! They needed to warn everyone. Spread the word about this group hell bent on destroying their kind.

 

But first... they needed to get back that key and escape!

 

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

 

Ah! A wolf then. He shrugged as he listened, pulling a flask of whiskey free from his kilt for a tickle, mostly to help warm him. Already he could feel the temperature dropping. It was definitely the start of night time. "Weel... aiblins i'll change yer min' oan 'at, cats can be highly... useful" (Well... perhaps I'll change your mind on that, cats can be highly... useful.) He said with an amused glint in his eyes, he knew that wolves and leopards naturally didn't play nice together... the whole cat and dog thing. Yet Robert had come to learn they both had strengths and weakness, and oddly enough the tracking ability of a wolves, they could smell better than the leopards, who made up for it with hearing. Still, he would admit he found the guy to be amusing... especially drunk. With a smirk kept mostly to himself as the friendly banter passed between the two. Clearly good friends if nothing else...

 

"He isn't a bad guy.. Just lost like the rest of us." Robert shrugged at that.

 

"Most tint men arenae bad... th' problem is 'at ance yer tint ye dornt ken if yoo've tint yer way mair." (Most lost men aren't bad... the problem is that once your lost you don't know if you've lost your way more.) It could be considered astute, even philosophical of him... but really it was experience, he had fallen of the wagon one too many times and taken a wrong turn home to know it.

 

Still, he decided to drop it for now and play with Nico a little, the guy was a little too cute for his own good... red hair and freckles... and oh so tempting, now how could he turn up such a delightful treat? He dropped his voice slightly for privacy and leaned in a little as he teased, "Sae, considerin' whit ye jist said tae yer mukker... Ah tak' it, ye still want tae... gie tae ken each other better?" (So, considering what you just said to your friend... I take it, you still want to... get to know each other better?) He chuckled, a deep and hearty sound. "Thocht, Ah hae tae ask laddie... dae ye make a habit ay takin' others back tae yer tent fur ronan tae comment oan it?" (Though, I have to ask lad... do you make a habit of taking others back to your tent for Ronan to comment on it?) He knew the guy wasn't pure, who was in this day and age really? And he couldn't very well expect it of a bed partner when he wasn't innocent himself. But he found himself just a touch possessive, his leopard leaning forward in keen interest of the answer also.... once again he thought the reaction odd but couldn't muster enough will power to examine it any closer, or perhaps, he simply didn't want to because he feared what he would see.

 

No, what he needed right now wasn't to think but to have a willing body next to him. Holding his flash up he grinned and asked, "Fancy a tot ay watter o' life laddie?" (Fancy a drop of whisky lad?)

 

Robert had no intention of sleeping much tonight, an hour at the most, he didn't do well sleeping surrounded by so many unknowns. Up in the trees, alone and tucked in was far more appealing to him. His great kilt made a good bed when wrapped a different way, and the heavy fabric kept out the cold like nothing else. Not that he felt it all that much, not these days, as a child he had, but soon became acclimated to the weather with being out in it every day. Come rain, hail or snow work still needed doing... and that was pretty much all the weather you ever got in bonny Scotland. Plus, his cat could do with coming out for a while, it was rubbing against his skin, trying to get closer to Nico... and for the first time he was actually a little concerned that he might not be able to hold back the bonding bite. Bloody hell! What was it about this lad that had him running around like some blind teenager?

 

He needed control, and the only way to get it was to take it. Standing with a fluid, feline-like grace he noticed they were pretty much alone as he offered his hand and wiggled his brow suggestively. His expression daring Nico to come take a walk on the wild side with me, even as he purred; "Arenae ye curioos if aam a true scotsman ur nae laddie?" (Aren't you curious if I'm a true Scotsman or not lad?) Aka... no briefs below his kilt.... and in every sense of the word, Robert was a true Scotsman.

[King Regnant]

Nico grinned a bit at Robert as the larger male leaned in and spoke. If he would have a tail, it would have been wagging happily. A laugh escaped him as well and he shrugged his shoulders. "I wouldn't call it a habit.. But I definitely don't let myself miss a chance for a roll when it arrises. No interest in women and it's not uncommon for me to go several months without company."

 

He couldn't stop the chuckle as Robert wiggled his brow. He grabbed the offered hand and stood up as well, giving it a gentle tug in the direction of his tent. "Of course.. but let's make sure your little scot doesn't freeze off, eh?"

 

--TIMESKIPBAM-

 

The sun had already rose to the sky and everything glistened in feshly fallen snow. The guards laid acorss some of the stumps, all fast asleep. A low growl escaped Ronan's throat as he stared at them before finally smacking two over the head. "Wake the hell up! You aren't supposed to be sleepig!" He snapped angrily. "You're supposed to be keeping watch! Just because you've lived this damn long doesn't mean it's garunteed, you pathetic fucks." Another growl rolled out as he stomped over to Nico's tent and ripped the flap opening apart.

 

"Wake up you-" Ronan paused with a blink as he noticed the mass of red curls was nowhere to be found. "Where's Nico?" He asked outloud and pulled away from the tent. His eyes went down to the soft layer of snow where old footprints had begun to be covered over. The man slowly began to follow them to the fire, where Nico had stood and then had.. fallen? His eyebrows furrowed together as he tried to make out the pattern of the boy's steps, but couldn't.

 

Then a splatter of blood in the snow came into his sight and a rush of panic went through him. "Shit.. Nico!" He called out the man's name but heard nothing in return and the other soldiers finally got to their feet. Ronan turned angered eyes towards the humans. His pupils had dilated and as he clenched his fists, his bones cracked loudly. "If he is dead, I will slaughter all of you."

 

"Cat! Get out here.. We have a big problem." Ronan stared forward at the woods in concentration. He couldn't smell Nico either, not even the blood on the ground infront of him. "Nico is missing. Do you know if he went somewhere? His tracks end at the fire..I don't have a scent. We need to split up into groups and look for him."

 

 

 

Well, shit. This sucked. Nico laid back against a tree as he sat on the ground, shaded by a thick patch of trees. He felt cold but it wasn't because of the cool wind or the snow. Blood dripped down from his torn throat to the ground, a red trail left behind where he had managed to stumble along.

 

The vampires that had done this to him had fled. After ambushing him when he went out to take a leak. They didn't want to kill him then - they wanted him and the group to suffer. "Fuck.." His voice was hoarse and gargled from the wound that no longer hurt. He couldn't feel very much at that point and had already blacked out several times.

[syaoran-puu]

tOh! The kid had spunk he would give him that, and the cheeky, playful side was certainly something that appealed. After all... his leopard liked to play... would Nico play with his inner cat? Or run screaming? Food for thought that might be but not for now... later... much later.

 

"Of course.. but let's make sure your little scot doesn't freeze off, eh?" Robert barked out in laughter even as he replied gruffly. "Ah laddie, thaur is naethin' wee abit mah wee scotsman... but yoo'll see fur yerself suin enaw." (Ah lad, there is nothing small about my little Scotsman... but you'll see for yourself soon enough.)

 

TIME SKIP

 

Robert couldn't remember much... he had played with Nico most of the night then stayed up most of the night with his fangs itching and feeling oddly dissatisfied... I should have bloody just bit him! He cursed himself, the desire had been there, nearly unavoidable... but he hadn't wanted to take the choice away from Nico. For it wasn't something he could just undo. Nope... running a hand over his teeth he nearly growled in frustration even as he rolled and reached for the mop of -rather sweaty- ginger curls. Robert remembered all too well the way they bounced... and a grin of an entirely different kind spread over his face.

 

It felt like forever but finally sleep came to claim him. It was nearly dawn, he was aware of the sun as if his body had an internal clock that ran on the thing....

 

His dreams were fitful.

 

Harsh and wicked landscape. Burnt and wilted trees. Grass that was dead. Even the sun seemed cold and distance... and he was just stood there. Stood in the middle of it all like he was a statue, like he was frozen in time. Forever stuck. Never moving forward and unable to look back.... limbo. He thrashed around, trying desperately to free himself from this prison... what was worst was that he knew he couldn't escape, knew that he had caused this... would cause this... his stupid bloody destiny! How he hated the b*tch everyone called fate! She was fickle and heartless and never did favour Robert as she did so many others.

 

He woke suddenly, his body covered in sweat and looking as if he had just ran a marathon rather than having an hour or so's rest. He shook his head and awareness snapped into place suddenly, the edges of the dream dispersing into nothingness so as not to haunt his waking hours... it was then that he realised someone was talking, not just someone... Ronan. What did the scalawag want now? Maybe he was trying to catch him and Nico in the act...

 

Wait a moment....! The scent of Nico wasn't strong enough to indicate he was still beside him. And sure enough on closer inspection he was all too aware that he alone... and very naked. "Bludy heel, it's tay early in th' morn fur aw thes guff." (Bloody hell, it's too early in the morning for all this crap.) He had realised something last night, at some point at least... and that was that his leopard believed that Nico was compatible with it. Rare. Rarer still for a leopard so far away from home... and it had been something he had had every intention of exploring. In the light of day, and remembering Nico's words the night before, he figured that was never going to happen.

 

Pulling himself from the tent, completely oblivious to his nudity as he pulled his plaid with him and deftly set to work putting it back into position. He didn't bother with his shirt... not at the moment at least, the urgency he senses in the wind had him moving faster than he normally would. Stuffing his gear back into his small pack, along with anything that may have got stray, he looked around and rolled his eyes at the summons from Ronan.

 

Of course he regretted that the moment he caught up to the guy.... blood. And no Nico?

 

He couldn't help the way his eyes shifted or the way his teeth actually grew a little longer. Good job the other guards had already scattered or his secret would be well and truly blown right now. "Whit th' buck happened!" (What the f*ck happened!) He ran a hand through his hair, grabbed a leather thong and quickly tied it back before scenting the air and listening to the wind. "An' wa th' bludy heel ur we standin' reit haur fur pup!" (And why the bloody hell are we standing right here for pup!) Well if he was going to use 'cat' as a derogatory term he could at least return the favour, even as he was already moving... following some trail his leopard seemed to pick up until it too disappeared.

 

This way... he had come this way... but something tole Robert that it hadn't been on his own terms... what the hell happened? And the memory of vampires in the woods only made him all the more nervous. He had a sudden thought; Did my leopard like the smell of his blood? Is it possible it drew the vampires too? Because the more he thought about it the more he was sure that the vile creatures were somehow involved. "Ah shoods hae bludy bit heem!" (I should have bloody bit him!) He cursed himself. Ok, so it wouldn't have stopped a vampire, wouldn't have even done much more than give his body and extra boost, his saliva acting as a guard and a boost to his normal biological systems... including healing. The effects were only temporary... but f*ck!! He should have just done it! Even if it meant that he had bound himself to the curly haired lad!

 

Robert was growing more and more frustrated by the minute even as he took to the trees for a higher vantage. He couldn't see anything, but the smell of blood did seem to intensify a little, as if.... his head snapped to the left.... it was drifting on the wind!!

 

"Ronan... gie yer hairy erse ower haur! we hae vampires tae hunt doon an' a rockit tae rescue." (Ronan... get your hairy arse over here! We have vampires to hunt down and a fool to rescue.) He called towards the guy before setting off through the trees, he wasn't about to waste time in climbing back down. His kilt got caught a few times but he didn't let even that slow his movements as he slinked forward. He would find the lad... then he would strangle him for being so foolish. Safety in numbers! What had he done? How the hell had this even happened?

[King Regnant]

Ronan didn't need to be told twice. He took off in a run after Robert, running at his side at the ground. He was getting the wifs of blood as well and when he could recognise it as his friends.. It made him feel ever worse. It didn't matter or occur to him that the humans would likely get picked off if they were gone to much. Their lives were no longer his problem. He ran until the smell was stronger, until he could smell the earthy scent of Nico's hair as well as the stench of vampires.

 

Blood and footprints in the snow began to lead the way for him and soon the pair were lead to a clearing in the trees. There Nico sat leaned against a tree. If he was alive, it had to be just barely.. and the smell coming from him made it obvious there was no way he could be walking away from this with his blood pumping through his veins. "Shit.."

 

"How you feelin'?" Ronan asked quietly as he moved to sit infront of Nico. The redhead gave a meek smile in response. "Not much different..Kinda.. horny." It wasn't the response the older was expecting and it took a moment to register in his head. "What? Didn't the cat do a decent job for ya'?" He asked lightly with a forced smile. His shoulders slumped and he looked like a dog with it's tail between his legs. "I don't know what to do, honestly.."

 

"Should I have said something else?" Nico asked, his smile still present on his bloodied lips. His eyes went up towards Robert, who he stared at. A strange sensation surged through his chest.

 

"Well yea.." Ronan murmured. "Not like I have a lot of conversations with blood-suckers. I don't.. know what it feels like, when it starts or when it ends. I don't know when you'll start to get.."

 

"Hungry?" The other cut in with a laugh and tilted his head back against the tree. "So you could feel better about having to kill me, right?"

 

There was a long silence as the two looked eachother before the wold let out a low sigh and leaned forward. Ronan prodded his finger into Nico's mouth, pushing his upper lip to reveal his teeth. He noticeably flinched when he saw that the canines had grown into sharp fangs. "Damn!" He pulled away quickly and stood, running his hand over his face. "You've already got fangs."

 

"mm, no. They had the camp surrounded but didn't attack. I went out to go to the bathroom beside the tent and they grabbed me from there. It was strange.. I didn't hear them.. or sense them.. They just kinda appeared out of nowhere." As Nico talked, his wound continued to bleed and Ronan had trouble looking at it. He hesitantly reached out to press against it, hoping the pressure would at least slow the bleeding. "You should probably go ahead and get it over with, right?"

 

"..Probably.." Ronan pulled away from Nico and had to turn his back on the boy. "..I'm upset that you died, Nico. Especially out here, alone in this cold." He admitted, his teeth gritting together before he glanced over at Robert. His mind was working, his thoughts becoming jumbled together as he tried to figure out some sort of solution. "I have never spared the life of a vampire. Every one I meet, I kill.. No matter who they are." There was a pause. "I was present during Nico's birth.. But not his death. And I am sworn to protect his life, not take it. Even this one."

 

"You know, Ronan.. You do kinda smell bad."

 

"What we do with him is up to you.."

[syaoran-puu]

The burn in his lungs was all too welcome as his feet practically took flight, the closer they got the more he could smell the blood and the more his leopard paced in the confines of his body, itching to get out, desperate to be more than a simple observer. But he needed all his human intelligence right now.

 

He jumped down, his feet landing silently as he braced himself on one knee and took in the surroundings before finally rising to his feet and approaching. He paled a little at the sight, and growled in the back of his throat as the story was told.... he was horny and telling Ronan about it?

 

"What? Didn't the cat do a decent job for ya'?" Grumpily he moaned in the background, half ignoring the pair now. "Loch heel Ah didne ye erse... an' ye bludy ken it... aam bonnie sure ye heard his sweit wee moans...." (Like hell I didn't you arse... and you bloody know it... I'm pretty sure you heard his sweet little moans....) Ok, so he was being a d*ck! He knew it, but hell! He had his pride! And he knew that he had satisfied the guy! Those cute little noises had told him all he needed to know.. even if he was started to get a niggling question... Had Nico faked it? He wouldn't think about that now, right now at least, they had bigger issues.... like the fact that Nico was clearly undergoing the change.

 

Nico was now a vampire. Nico was now their enemy.

 

Yet... "You know, Ronan.. You do kinda smell bad." ...he found himself bursting out into utter fit of laughter. "Weel at leest his sense ay humoor hasnae paled!" (Well at least his sense of humour hasn't paled!) It may not have been a laughing matter but it was still funny seeing the wolf being told he smelt.

 

"What we do with him is up to you.." He was a little surprised that the fate of Nico was being put on him... Ronan knew the guy more, and from the sounds of it, from the day he was born... Robert was just a passing fancy right? Even as he thought it his leopard yowled in his mind. It didn't like that thought at all... but what was he meant to do?

 

"It ainae sae simple, an' ye ken it. he's a vampire noo, we need tae min' 'at but mebbe..." (It ain't so simple, and you know it. He's a vampire now, we need to remember that but maybe...) He considered for a moment. "Ah heard a tale ance ay a pair ay shifters whose human mucker was attacked an' nearly killed by th' vampires. but afair she transformed completely th' fed 'er some ay 'er bluid... normally 'at woods hae bonded them as lifemates, but it's said 'at it did somethin' tae th' change... gart it sae only th' bluid ay 'er mates actually satisfied 'er." (I heard a tale once of a pair of shifters whose human mate was attacked and nearly killed by the vampires. But before she transformed completely the fed her some of her blood... normally that would have bonded them as lifemates, but it's said that it did something to the change... made it so only the blood of her mates actually satisfied her.) He ran a hand down his face, it was surely nothing more than a story right? There was likely no helping Nico now that he had become what he was becoming... they would have to kill him? And what if it did work? What if Ronan and himself fed some of their blood to the guy before his hunger struck and it worked? The guy would depend on them for the rest of his immortal life! Could Robert commit so much so quickly? Was it a risk he was even willing to take?

 

He considered for a flash the place he had come from... what had happened... the debt he now owed... could he do both? "Ah dornt e'en ken if it woods wark, but we coods try it. Ah heard it takes tois thocht... an' i've nae idea if a leopard an' a wolf can e'en dae it together, lit aloyn if its actually true..." (I don't even know if it would work, but we could try it. I heard it takes two though... and I've no idea if a leopard and a wolf can even do it together, let alone if its actually true...) Ok, so now he was rambling! He sighed and looked to Ronan. "Hoo much dae ye want tae sae heem? if we did thes... he woods be dependent oan a body ur baith ay us fur bluid. an' Ah also heard 'at feedin' makes a vampire horny." (How much do you want to save him? If we did this... he would be dependent on one or both of us for blood. And I also heard that feeding makes a vampire horny.) He glanced at Nico and winked, trying to break some of the tension. "Ur raither hornier, since he is awreddy sufferin' frae 'at particular ailment. a body ay us wi' either hae tae... tend tae his needs." (Or rather hornier, since he is already suffering from that particular ailment. One of us with either have to... tend to his needs.)

[King Regnant]

It wasn't like Ronan wanted to give Nico's life to someone else. He had sworn many years ago to protect him and be a life friend. Killing Nico, even as a vampire.. It wasn't something he could physically do. Ronan blinked a few times at the story. He was desperate for some sort of answer that he had never heard of. "Only their blood?" He muttered to himself in thought and glanced down. "Then.. if you're willing to try it, we might as well. What's the worst that can happen.."

 

Ronan's cheeks actually flared up when Robert said someone would have to help Nico out. The wolf quickly waved his hands infront of him defensively. "Nu uh, not me. He's all yours, man. I'm not interested in taking a bite out of that apple. Nu uh." The sound of Nico laughing made him pause and glance over. Blue eyes were staring at the two men and the flow of blood had stopped from the boy's wound. "..But I would do anything to save him." He said after a moment more seriously. "I'm ready to do it."

 

Nico stood up very suddenly, making Ronan take a step back. His movements were easy and almost graceful, something that surprised even himself. He looked down at his hand and clenched his fingers a few times, feeling how different his body felt then what it did when human. "..I guess.. if that's all we can do to prevent my death." The boy agreed as his eyes lifted back up. "Even if my body is no longer human, I don't feel anything... less. I do not want to die."

 

A smile spread across the redhead's face and the tips of his teeth poked through. It was different than his previous grins and unnerving, making Ronan growl lowly from his throat. Still, he gave a nod and looked at Robert. "So.. What should we do? Just give him the blood and hope for the best?"

 

Nico poked his finger at one of his fangs curiously. "How do I use them?" He questioned out loud. "Bite and drink? Or does something else happen?"

 

"How would we know?" Ronan grumbled as he pulled out a dagger from seemingly nowhere and twirled it in his fingers. "How about we not let you sink those bastards in our skin, eh? We'll just make a cut and bleed into your mouth and we'll see how it goes. If you wanna suck from his neck then be my guest." He let out a huff and quickly sliced into his palm. "You'll need to hurry though. Little cuts like this will heal in a matter of moments. I don't want to be having to redo it every few seconds because you like to eat slowly, got it?"

 

As the blood seeped to the surface of the skin, Nico felt himself stiffen. He gulped thickly as he stared at the would, his mouth becoming suddenly dry and his stomach gaining a low ache. His lips pressed together tightly as he frowned, trying to keep ahold of himself. The sudden urge to lunge forward was poking at his brain, an instinct he had never experienced before. "..We should.. uh, start.." He managed to say calmly but with a strained voice.

 

Ronan nodded and help his fist out over Nico, who had tilted his head back slightly to catch the blood into an open mouth. It seemed the longest few seconds of his life as he waited for the thin stream to drip onto his tongue. When it did though, it was a mix of flavors and feelings. At first, it tasted bitter and smelled like a wet dog.. but then it slowly got better. Like a warm drink someone would drink infront of a fire. Nothing like the iron taste he had always associated with blood.

 

His whole body flooded with a warmth that he had always felt when he was alive and comfortable. It made him shudder in pleasure.. No wonder vampires would often have blood lust if it was in exchange for the feeling of being alive again. As he licked a drop from the corner of his lips, Nico turned his attention over to Robert. "..You are alright with doing this as well?" He questioned seriously and took a few steps towards the man.

[syaoran-puu]

Robert listened to the exchange only adding a little from time to time since they seemed to mostly be talking about each other.... and oddly enough Robert wasn't sure he could help the guy... though it was likely the way Nico had spoke. "..I guess.. if that's all we can do to prevent my death." Oddly it gave him very little confidence about his ability to satisfy the kid... even if the evidence had spoken for itself in the tent only hours earlier.

 

With a sigh he resigned himself to his fate. He wouldn't and couldn't let the kid just die if he could help prevent it.

 

"Aam sorry laddie, Ah pure dornt hae much information tae gang aff haur." (I'm sorry lad, I really don't have much information to go off here.) He rubbed a hand over his neck. "Aam jist guessin' haur ronan. it's nae as if thes is tried aft." (I'm just guessing here Ronan. It's not as if this is tried often.) He hissed through his teeth."We dornt normally ask questions when it comes tae them...." (We don't normally ask questions when it comes to them....) It was the truth, but oddly enough right now he felt as if he had failed the kid whose eyes seem to be begging him for life, for more.... and what if this didn't work? What if it even made things worst?

 

"How would we know?" He had to conquer with Ronan on that one, how the hell where they meant to know? They were shifters and avoided those fangs as much as humanly possible.

 

"Aam fairly positife 'at as lang as ye swallaw it 'at yer body will dae lae.... Ah dornt exactly ken whit th' fangs dae... ur dornt dae." (I'm fairly positive that as long as you swallow it that your body will do the rest.... I don't exactly know what the fangs do... or don't do.) He commented, biting his own wrist open so that the blood flowed freely over it.... despite the desire to help the kid he didn't exactly want those sharp looking fangs anywhere near him. And the idea at him sucking from his neck as Ronan had put it was enough to send mixed signals through him... partly because.... well, he rather liked the idea of being marked by Nico. Stupid shifter sensibilities.....

 

"..You are alright with doing this as well?" He looked Nico directly in the eyes and nodded, the seriousness and determination to do this sinking in to his core. "Och aye laddie, aam sure." (Yes lad, I'm sure.)

 

With that he offered his wrist to the lad and waited. Would it hurt? Be pleasurable? Nothing? He really wasn't sure what to expect.

 

"Ye dae realise thes is probably a a bampot idea." (You do realise this is probably a foolish idea.) He chuckled. "Practically tyin' yerself tae a stranger loch thes...." (Practically tying yourself to a stranger like this....) Ok... so he was totally rambling in his nerves, but hell! He was bloody allowed! What he wouldn't do for a tot of whiskey right about now.

[King Regnant]

Nico stared at Robert for a few silent seconds before taking another step closer. He opened his mouth and let the man's blood drip into his mouth, making him winced slightly from the sudden sensation and taste. It was different then Ronan's had been - it was automatically good on his tongue and the surge of pleasure that went through him reminded him much of the first kiss the two shared. His hands shakily reached up to touch the creature's arm before he lightly pulled it closer to his mouth, urging more blood to go into his mouth.

 

The warmth in his body felt like he was being swallowed whole in the best way possible. He was visibily fighting off the urge to sink his fangs into Robert, his new canines already had grown slightly in preparation of a more fresh meal. "You.. taste good.." He whispered in a mumble, his cheeks even flaring up. Finally, he took in a sharp breath and shoved Robert's arm away and took a step back as though he were in pain. Wiping the blood from his mouth with his arm, the redhead turned his gaze towards the two men in a sudden silence as though they were just waiting to see what happened.. which is all they could do at that point.

 

"What about the others? Even if this does work, I can't be around them." Nico pointed out calmly as he glanced at Ronan, who seemed to be on complete guard.

 

"Don't worry about that. I'll order them home. I'll say it's to dangerous - that the area is being overrun and even I can't handle it. That'll make them split pretty quick."

 

"I see.." Nico glanced down at his hand and flexed is hand with a silent sigh. "What will I do? What will you guys do?" His eyes went to the men who had possibly saved his existence, his eyebrows scrunching up slightly. "This means I won't be able to go without one of you, right? If I have to abandon my current life. Where will I go? What can I do?" That sudden realization made him frown deeply. His entire life had been dedicated to fighting vampires and working for the King. Now what?

 

"We can keep doing what we were.." Ronan said confidently, crossing his arms over his chest. "Killing vampires that fuck with us and all that good shit. It's what we do?" The wolf's yellow eyes looked over at the cat, who he stared at. "What about you though? What were you originally doing in these parts? Where are you trying to travel to?"

[syaoran-puu]

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((Sorry!! Life kicked my arse.))

 

Robert couldn't help the moan that left his lips at the sight of Nico drinking from him.... it felt.... right, even with the tip of those deadly fangs glistening up at him, taunting him, enticing him, threatening him.... still.... Yes, this felt right. To provide for the guy, his mind tried to whisper something to him but he ignored it, pushed it aside, he wasn't ready to consider anything else right now. He already had too much to contend with. No way in hell did he need to dump more crap on his own lap.

 

He felt himself grow hard as Nico drank deeply, he didn't dare to look at the wolf beside him, sure that his arousal was thick in the air, there was nothing he could do about that. Who would have thought this would turn him on? Fuck! He was a sick and twisted fuck! Ronan would likely kick his arse for it later.

 

He stumbled a little when he was pushed back and the pained expression on Nico's face shocked him. Did the idea of feeding from Robert disgust him so much? Looking down at his own blood before he leaned down and lick his own wound closed. Thank god for cat enzymes, they sure came in handy.... he just hoped no one mentioned it, and if he heard one more smarty-pant joke about hair balls he'd have to get his claws out.

 

The silence stretched on, and he let it. Right now his mind was churning with a million thoughts and he wasn't sure what to focus on.... he'd just bound himself to a kid he'd slept with but didn't really know... a vampire to boot.... and by extension he supposed he was now bound to Ronan too. A trio. Fang-fucking-tastic. Pun intended. His day was just getting better and better.

 

When two sets of eyes turned his way he had to spend a moment to figure out they had spoken to him, "Me?" (Me?) He shrugged slightly, trying to distract them from looking too closely at him right now. But man, his cheeks tinted slightly pink. "I tauld ye when we first mit. aam haur fur th' competition.... thocht if truth be tauld Ah didne hae tay mony choices. but that's a lang an' raither borin' story aam afraid." (I told you when we first met. I'm here for the competition.... though if truth be told I didn't have too many choices. But that's a long and rather boring story I'm afraid.)

 

Clearing his throat Robert considered his words carefully. "If aam honest. Ah micht be haur longer than th' contest. duty.... eh.... duty dictates Ah dae mah part ur pay th' price back haem. " (If I'm honest. I might be here longer than the contest. Duty.... eh.... duty dictates I do my part or pay the price back home.) He looked at Nico, and let the honesty of his words shine through his eyes. "Aam sure we can wark somethin' it laddie. Ah willnae lae ye when ye need me. " (I'm sure we can work something out lad. I won't leave you when you need me.)

[King Regnant]

Nico was beginning to feel the other affects of becoming something other then human. He wrinkled his nose as new senses went through him and one of them.. being oddly pleasant. Waves of new smells were entering his nostrils - from the crisp air, the pine trees and the two men. His eyes went to the larger redhead and he stared at him silently, noticing the soft pink dashed across the older gentlemen's face. He was quickly picking up the fact that Robert's smell was much more stronger at the moment.. and even he was able to figure on why exactly.

 

It was everything in him not to jump on the other man and help relieve him of those needs. Nico's fingers twitched at his side and he bite the inside of his cheek, silently eying Robert's crotch before he could actually listen to anything that was being said. He needed to behave himself though, seeing as how this was a rather delicate and serious situation. His mind snapped back to where it needed to be and he listened to the discussion.

 

Meeting his eyes with Robert's, Nico felt himself relax once more. He idly licked his lips as he stared at the man and felt the urge to step closer to him. His own cheeks gained a soft pink of embarassment and he gave a nod of silent thanks. How could he not feel rather touched by the sudden loyalty? Even if it was only words for now..

 

"..Thank you.." Nico murmured quietly, reaching out to gently brush his and Robert's fingers against each other softly. "Then.. we shall follow you to the competition?" He lifted his eyes to meet Ronan, who nodded in agreement. "Since is it me who will need you, I won't force you out of your way more then you already have.." The now vampire took a small step closer to the larger man, his gaze fixing on the ground almost shyly. He could feel the warmth radiating off Robert.

 

"And if we're going to be traveling together, then there's no point in secrets.. Especially considering what exactly what we just all got our selves into." Ronan butted in as he watched how Nico seemed to gravitate towards Robert. While he still had no idea if their little experiment had worked, all the wolf could do was try and remain positive. At least Nico wasn't attempted to rip their throats out, right? "You already know us as Ronan and Nico. We're from two neighboring villages that reside in the far west. We both do what we do to earn money for our families, who still wait for us at home. Money is what fuels everything we do at this point."

[syaoran-puu]

Robert couldn't help but be mesmerised by those fascinating eyes, it was probably a good job that he wasn't shy since he was likely making quite a show of himself in front of the pair. Even as a vampire, Nico was a stunning creatures. His inner cat wanted to leisurely stretch and cover the once human in his scent.

 

Snapping to reality he frowned a slightly. How much could he really tell these two?

 

Maybe not everything, not yet. "I can't tell you everything, it's not all mine to share. But money driver part of my actions too. A debt I have to repay..... I haven't left and bairns or lovers behind, no one even really expects me to succeed. But I will. I must.". He paused a moment the added; "Will that suffice as evidence of my honesty?". If not it was rather tough, since there wasn't exactly anything we he was ready or able to say.....

 

He reached over to Nico, shyly standing before him; "It's no trouble lad. Nice to help someone out for a change." He winked at the guy, and unable to resist he pull him into a loose hug.

 

"Let's move. We shouldn't linger..."

[King Regnant]

Nico wanted to melt into the hug. It was now the second thing to have made him feel warm and alive, after the blood he had drank. He made a small noise in the back of his throat, almost samiliar to a purr before nodding his head in agreement and forcing himself to pull away. "..Mmhm.. We need to get away from the group. If we don't go back, they'll come looking for us. Ronan and I are the strongest.. we're not easily expandable like the others." Whether it was harsh or not, it was true. Skills were highly prized and needed in this war.

 

Ronan stared at Nico for a long, silent second. He observed the blood all over him from his old wound, one that had obviously killed him and how skin had become paler. In comparison, he looked like a sick version of the human he once was. His freckles still spotted across his face though, bringing some sens of normalcy to his companion. "Right. Perhaps we can work on you blending into humans, assuming this little plan of ours worked. You wouldn't pass right now seeing as how you look like a god damn zombie."

The headhead nodded. He reached up to touch his throat that had previously be ripped out. The skin wasn't perfect yet, he could still feel the bumps of scabs and scarred flesh. It would be gone within the next day at the longest, and then any trace of his human demise would vanish. "What about the others?"

"They aren't our problem now."

 

"They'll die. They're basically defenseless."

 

"Nico, they're our enemies at the moment."

 

"Ronan-"

 

"Nico, cut your shit. We don't have time for them. We need to get going to somewhere safe before the sun gets to high in the sky. We can't stay in these woods and we can't travel during the day as easily. Drop the emotional baggage tied to them - they were going to die anyway. That's what happens to people who rely on the strong, when they are weak and unwilling to grow stronger or back down. We can't protect them forever." Ronan snipped as he pulled a spare blanket out of a pack on his side. He tossed it over Nico's head and pointed towards the sky. "The sun is still low and we have these trees, but we need to move quickly."

 

Nico finally nodded in defeat and tightened he blanket around him. Even if they were shaded by the trees well, he felt unsafe by new instinct. "Alright. Let's go." Ronan gave a firm nod and looked upwards before suddenly bolting up into a tree. Footprints would leave a trail and ruin the attempt at disappearing. He stared down at the other two men before Nico awkwardly grabbing onto a low branch and using it to hoist himself up, much like he would do when human. But now, it felt much easier and his body felt as though he were as heavy as a pebble. He wobbled slightly before regaining his footing with the new sensation before jumping further into the tree, before finally he was at Ronan's side.

 

"We need to get to a small village, somewhere with a shop or clothes maker.. New supplies and all that."

 

 

(( At work so can't message you on Voxer. Feel free to do a skip if you want. Was thinking maybe they can see what Nico can do now, or trying to help him act human still.