Swimming and Waiting

Lexi Trent · Foxy Hati

Swimming and Waiting

Ashes Of Faith · Lukois' Lucifer

Ash received the call from Lexie at the end of what had turned out to be a very long day. Between a crime scene, the morgue, lunch with Evie, and work with Dakota he had been busy from dawn till dusk. When he arrived home it was a relief just to be able to kick off his shoes and change out of his nine to five straight jacket. As he passed the living room to go to the master suite he didn't see her there, so he assumed she was outside in the pool. Making a quick stop in his room he changed from his suit to a pair of black board shorts. They hung loose on his hips showing far too much pale skin, scars and ink than most people would want to see. It was amazing that he could live in Hawaii and still remain so pale.

Walking out towards the pool he saw the fox lazily swimming through the chyrstal blue water. Ash sat at the edge and dipped his legs in the warm water, idly itching at one shin that was a mass of scar tissue travelling ankle to knee from a run in back in Bolivia when he was eighteen. Burn scars, the worst of the worst. Waiting until she reached his end of the pool he leaned back, palms pressed to the concrete to prop him up.

"Lexie, long time no see."

The female fox hadn't been around as much, but it was paradise. He was sure she'd been out exploring.

"What can I do for you pet?"

Lexi Trent · Foxy Hati

His scent caught her attention before she actually saw him sitting over there. Chosen path was altered to take her over to the edge near him and hoist herself up enough to give him a proper cheek rub greeting. Then she slid back into the water, propping her elbows on the edge and resting her chin on her forearms.

"Yes, well, I hope to be changing that. Being seen more often, that is."

Green gaze marched over his form a moment as she formed her explanation.

"First, I want to apologize for not being here as often. Been exploring the dives around the islands and wreaking a fair amount of havoc on the male population." A slight grin. "Second, before things went all to cock and caused the lockdown, you'd said you wanted to speak to me about something. Said you wanted a more private setting than the Hookah. Happen to remember what the topic was?"

She moved down a ways to lift herself out of the pool and grab her towel. Wrapping it around herself, she moved over to sit on his left with her feet in the water. It was just more comfortable this way. At least for her.

"And lastly.." She pouted at him, looking more tempting than cute though she didn't know it. "..I missed my warm, fuzzy family. Besides that, I was going to slowly wither away if I didn't come get some real food."

Shoulder bumped his at her little joke. It had been her experience that he was a bit too serious sometimes and hoped that she might lighten the mood a little. Not only that, but she had missed the pack. Coming by only for the full moon just didn't give her that same sense of comfort that she got when she stayed here for a few days every week.

LexSwimsuit

[OOC: Her swimsuit.]

-- Edited by Lyric at 00:35, 2008-05-26

Ashes Of Faith · Lukois' Lucifer

Ash leaned to the side and bumped her shoulder right back as she had done with his. That Brit accent of hers was comforting because it reminded him so keenly of home. It had been a long time since he'd been back to London. It got him started thinking that maybe when things settled down again he could take a trip there and try to work out some of the kinks that had been wreaking havoc in his mind. Possibly take Evie with him so she could see Alex. At least he thought that was where her mentor lived.

"You'll always have family here Lexie you know that. No longer how long you have to be away."

Eyes the color of blue highlighter ink stared out at the calm blue water of the black bottom pool, watching the way the light shone off of it. Everything here in Hawaii seemed so much more vivid, more alive somehow. Odd though that he missed the dark somberness of Salem more with each passing day. From the open french doors that led outside he could already smell food being cooked in the kitchen. Mamma at work, no doubt trying to make a feast to celebrate Lexie coming to visit. Mamma was good at keeping all of them full and happy. His laugh was soft, something rarely heard.

"With everything that's been going on lately I have been thinking of bringing a Bolverk into the pack. I can't offer you that position because it would be an insult to have a fox punishing the wolves. Vincent holds the position of Hati under Cypress as Skoll. There is a position known as Garmr, who is the helper of the Bolverk. Just as Hati is the Skolls right hand in defending me."

There was a momentary pause as he looked sidelong at her.

"It isn't a position that would require much time, except when there is work to be done, and until I appoint a Bolverk there won't be much responsibility. I still wanted to know if you'd be interested when that time came."

Lexi Trent · Foxy Hati

The soft laugh coming from him had her smiling a little. Head nodded slightly as she lifted the corner of her towel to brush water away from her eyes.

A snort left her at the thought of being the one to punish the wolves. She had to agree with Ash on that one, it certainly would be an insult. However, helping the Bolverk would be a different story since she wouldn't be the one in charge of the punishments.

A moment of silence as she thought over this offer. It was not something to be taken lightly so she couldn't give a quick answer. Feet kicked gently through the water as she watched the ripples it caused.

"Yes, I would be interested." A nod to herself. "But if I might ask.. why me?"

Green gaze turned on him as she asked this. She was very curious about the answer he would give her.

Ashes Of Faith · Lukois' Lucifer

Ashes hands left the pavement as he eased back to lay on the stones around the pool. Back cool against them as he looked up at the sky gone dark of full of dazzling stars. He had felt jittery when he came home, but now for some reason he was relaxing and just enjoying the moment that surrounded him. For the moment troubles slipped away from him, and even though he knew they were still lurking and waiting for him he was alright. Ash suspected it might have something to do with that snort that came out of Lexie. Though nothing was certain.

"You came to the pack to learn to hone your strength. To build on what you already have, and I think this would be a good way to do that. It's why I made Vinny Hati. I knew that there was alot Cypress could teach him and that in some way that might help him overcome the pain that he'd just left in Maine."

His head turned to the side to look at Lexie for a long moment. Taking her in and seeing the subtle changes in her since the day that they had met in Salem. So much had changed in the months since then. A few good, a lot of bad. It was nice to be in the company of someone who was delightfully the same. At the same time though he realized that change was a way of life and change might be just what Lexie needed.

"I think there's alot more to you than you've let any of us see. I hope that this may tap you into something inside yourself. A way to let go of some of your ghosts and make you feel like less of a.....victim."

Ash wasn't sure if that was exactly the right word, but it was the closest he could get to. She had not shared all of her story with him, but enough for him to know that she felt out of control alot. And afraid behind that tough exterior she wore.

"Also there are some good females in the pack right now I think you should try to get in touch with. But only if you want to. I'm not so much of a dictator that I am going to tell you who to be friends with. I just thing you might be good for eachother."

Lexi Trent · Foxy Hati

A slow nod was given. Fingers lifted to brush wet strands behind her ear as she mulled this over. Now that he had mentioned it, she could see how this would be of help to her. The issue of control was something she feared losing and perhaps this would be a foundation to avoid such things.

His next words had her gaze jumping to him quickly. Damn, he was good at reading people. Slight twitch of her lips, a bare glimpse of a smile.

"I didn't think anyone could read me that well after all these years. But you're right, there is more. Maybe I'll confront my ghosts, as you call them, and come out on top."

A slight shrug. She had mastered that uncompromising anger toward other foxes, but there was still more to work on. But, being the stubborn, independant woman that she was, she would hardly ask for help unless she really needed it.

"Who, exactly, should I possibly be getting in touch with? When you make a suggestion, I'm more than willing to try it out and see what comes of it."

Ashes Of Faith · Lukois' Lucifer

From where he was on his back he chuckled softly, a laugh barely heard. Arms moved and hands folded behind his head. Blue eyes intent on the stars overhead.

"I think I see in people the things I see most in myself. It's the other things, the good things, that I have trouble seeing."

That wasn't entirely true, but it was close enough to be disturbing to him. As she asked about his suggestion he sat up and pressed a hand to the stones to help himself stand. Feet and calves dripped water as he moved to the french doors that led back into the house. It was then he realized that he hadn't had the forethought to bring a towel out with him. Ash really hated making messes but he sighed and sucked it up, walking over the hardwoods towards the coffee table and leaving a trail of water behind him. He would wipe it up later if it hadn't soaked in or evaporated by then. Pad and pen were taken from the table and carried back outside. He took a seat at the little table under an umbrella and wrote out some names and numbers of people for Lexie to contact.

Lou
Anna Marie
Alex

Each name had the number out to the right of it. The paper was held out so she could see the names written on it.

"They all live here. Lou I just think would be good company for you. And Anna and Alex....well they have alot in common with you as far as past experience goes. So maybe you would be able to help eachother. Just a thought."

Ash sat the paper down on the table and put the edge of the ash tray down on top of it before reaching for the pack of cigarettes that he always left outside on the deck. One of the black 398s was pulled from the pack and set between generous lips before the flare of a lighters flame lit his face as he sucked in. Breathing out smoke billowed up around him. He couldn't remember if Lexie smoked, but he left the pack open near the edge of the table with the lighter resting on top in case she wanted one.

"So how do you like paradise Lexie? Is it everything you'd hoped and more?"

Lexi Trent · Foxy Hati

"I think I see in people the things I see most in myself. It's the other things, the good things, that I have trouble seeing."

She could understand that. Hell, she'd lived for years thinking that everyone was inherently bad, rather than looking for the good things in them. Sort of "guilty until proven innocent" mentality. Also known as suspicion and paranoia, but hey, it kept you alive.

Green gaze followed him as he went inside, taking the time to stand and wrap the lime green towel around her torso, rolling the end under itself so that her hands were free. That was about the time Ash returned and sat at the table where she soon joined him and waited for whatever it was he was writing.

A quick read of the paper held out toward her and then she reached for it. She had heard all three of the names, and even seen their owners, though she was unlikely to remember exactly which was which should she come face to face with them. Still, it wouldn't be a bad idea to get in touch with them. If she remembered correctly, Lou was the one who had a garage back in Salem. That might come in handy when she had car trouble again.

"Good company is always welcome.." Elbow was propped on the table and chin set down on her knuckles. Opposite hand's index finger tapped slowly on the piece of paper. "I don't know how much help I'd be to these other two, but I'll get in touch with them. Anything you can tell me about them besides that I should wear the kid gloves? Don't want to go upsetting them, you know."

Lex had never been a big smoker, only partaking occasionally when she was drinking or in a social environment, so she ignored the inviting looking pack to think about his questions.

"Paradise, hm? Is there really such a place?" Faint smirk as she looked up at the sky, gaze jumping to the moon's crescent shape. "I'm sure this is close for some people, but I don't think paradise would have so much crime, pain, or death." Brief glance his direction before she went back to watching sweet Luna. "It's nice here, though. Especially when I'm here with the pack. Little Ginny, you, Silent, Dakota, Mahina, the others.. I think that feeling of family, of belonging, is as close to paradise as I'll ever be."

Slight smile, tearing her eyes away from the sky to look toward him again. "Still, it would be nice if we could have a break from the crimes I keep reading about in the paper. And I'm sure it's worse for you since you have to deal with them as well as take care of the pack." A shrug. "Maybe we should post a memo for the crimal headquarters.. 'Cease-fire for two weeks, then we'll get back to catching your sorry arses'. It might work."

Yes, the vixen was making jokes. Half-hearted jokes, but they were her way of dealing with the things she read about. She may not have to see the crimes in all their gorey detail, but she had a fairly active and fertile imagination.

Ashes Of Faith · Lukois' Lucifer

There was yet another area where their thinking was simpatico. Paradise if not for the loved ones to share it with would be hell on Earth. Salem had been almost idealic. A small town with much less crime and preternatural intrigue. Almost since their first week here there had been one killer or another roaming about, and the stress from that was really showing. Ash had been meaning to go and see Professor Clarendon to try and have the man run some of his 'tests' the ones with the crazy names and even crazy devices. Something to see if there was something about the energy in the land here that made it such a hot bed. At the suggested solution he laughed lightly, something barely heard and then gone, but for him it was a rarely excercised human reaction.

"The irony is that I came here to retire. I'm not sure I told anyone but Silent that. I was going to take it easy, enjoy my time with the pack, maybe do a little travelling. I'm not really even sure when that got overtaken by everything else."

In the beginning when the local Police Cheif had asked him to step in and form a preternatural squad he had debated, had called his people back in Salem and found out they were the ones who had phoned up and suggested it. Seemed the islands had been wanting to expand for awhile since the crime in the area had gotten worse, and in actually it couldn't have happened at a better time. Still, there were times he felt guilty about it.

"I still feel a bit like I'm doing a disservice to the pack. I don't get to spend as much time with them as I know some of them would like. We were all so close in Salem, but here there are pack members I have barely spent any time with. After what happened with disappearing to go to Spain I still get this nagging question in the back of my head. If I had to choose between the pack and my job which one would it be? I think a good Ulfric would know the only suitable answer to that question."

It was left unspoken, but he knew she knew what he meant. He didn't know the answer. The human part of him and the animal part were in complete disagreement. It had been his primal side that had drawn him to battle Caelum in Salem. To take over the small pack that was there, and it was that same raw instinct that had led him to expand the pack until it was what it is today. But it was the human side that picked up and left the pack with Harry to run off to Spain in the middle of the night because there was a vampire killing children. And of course he hadn't known at the time he would be gone so long, but he did know that death was always a possibility, and he had made his choice anyway.

"Since you came to us Lexie have you felt safe? Have you felt like I have done what I promised when you joined the pack?"

It took alot for him to ask a question. His words opened up a certain vulnerability in him that he rarely showed to anyone, but he needed to know. For good or for bad he needed to hear it because he never did. He wanted to hear that she felt safe and hope that they all did.

Lexi Trent · Foxy Hati

A startled look crossed over her features at this bit of information. Ash, retired? It was simply not a picture that came easily to her mind. He was a man of action. And he helped people where others might not be as good at it. Sure, she respected all people in law enforcement, but being a lycan herself she knew there were certain things that normal humans just were not equipped to handle. Ash and his team took care of those things.

She remained silent as he continued, letting him air all of this. It was, perhaps, easier to talk to her about these things than anyone else right now. She understood where he was coming from. Stress was taking its toll on him and he - though she doubted he'd ever admit it, even to himself - was feeling uncertain.

"I don't think you're doing a disservice to the pack. You may not get to spend as much time with everyone, but you do your best. Your job simply gives you another way to protect all of us. If you were faced with that question, which to choose.. you would choose the one that was in the best interest of everyone. If that meant spending days away from the pack in order to track down a criminal, you'd do it. That's the kind of person you are, Ash."

A pause, fingers reaching to take up a smoke from the open pack nearby and set the lighter's flame to it. A slow trickle of smoke left her nostrils as she exhaled before answering the questions posed to her specifically. Those two little questions had opened him up to being hurt if she were a cruel person.

"When I approached you back in Salem, I was tired.. so very tired of having to appear like nothing bothered me. I had always been tolerated, nothing more, when I approached other packs. All I truly wanted when I got to Salem was a safe hunting ground and help controlling myself. What you offered me was more than that."

A small frown as she took another drag from the ciggarette, trying to word things in the 'right way'.

"If I followed the rules, I had a place among you. I had the privilege of running with the pack, new friends, and the protection you promised. I looked only for a place to rest where I didn't have to hide my weaknesses constantly and instead, I found a place that could truly be called a home."

"Have I felt safe since I came to you? Yes. Have I felt like you've done what you promised? Yes, ten times over. You're a good man, Ash Redfern, and a damn fine Ulfric, if you want my opinion. You do everything you can to keep your promises, and then figure out a way to take care of everything you can't do."

Lexi was a proud woman and having admitted to all of this, she had left herself just as vulnerable as he had been when he voiced those questions. It was the only thing she could give him that would let him see that she understood what it cost him to ask her that. So she gave him that long glimpse past the wall she kept between herself and others, showed him the chink in her armor, and the truth of her words. It gave him a certain leverage over her, but that didn't matter since she trusted him. He had earned that trust and she didn't give it lightly.

Ashes Of Faith · Lukois' Lucifer

Ash watched as Lexi pulled that cigarette from the pack. So hard to resist the charming black papered devils. His own was hanging limply between those generous lips, a slow steady stream of smoke floating up from the tip. Listening to what she said he felt a certain weight come off his chest that he hadn't even known he'd been carrying around until then. He was a longtime fan of swallowing emotions and keeping them away from the surface so they couldn't interfere with what had to be done. Until then he didn't know just how much anxiety he had been hiding from himself. When you had only yourself to worry about it was easy. It was when you started caring for people, starting wanting to protect them, that was when the worry crept in.

"Thanks Lexie."

That response seemed so inappropriate compared to all of the help that she had given him. It seemed though that they had an understanding between them in that moment that had nothing to do with words. A shared vulnerability and a shared hope. Ash remembered the first time they had met. When she had been looking for hunting grounds just as she had said, and strangely there had never been any animosity between the two of them. Usually Ash had a rocky start with...well....everyone he met. Because the coldness he lived with was offputting to others until they got close. With Lexie that had never been a problem. Maybe it was because they were both British. The Brits were never a very warm and emotional lot.

"I know it must be wierd now that Lola and Sean aren't here, but there will be others. When you're ready you'll find them, and I know that you'll do well with your own people when that day comes.I think there's a good chance Sean might move back, but I am fairly certain Lola has decided to stay in Alaska."

Leaning back in the chair he took a last drag off the cigarette, blowing the smoke overhead before reaching to crush the tip of the cigarette in the crystal ashtray. Always careful that every last cinder was ground out. There was nothing that bothered him as much as someone leaving a cigarette still smoking after they put it out.

"Tell you what. Why don't you turn that grill on and we'll make some burgers."

Ash hadn't eaten dinner yet so food was sounding pretty good, standing up with a stretch he left Lexie to start the grill while he went inside and headed to the kitchen. Inside the fridge there were burger patties he'd made up the night before, marinated and ready to drop right on the grill. Pulling the ziplock bag out he grabbed a plate and put two of the thick patties on it before sealing the bag and sticking it back in the fridge. As he got the food stuffs together he called back to Lexie through the still open door.

"Red wine alright with you?"

Red wine was good with anything, especially red meat. Bacon was taken from the fridge, some slices of cheese. Then from the pantry he grabbed a bag of buns. The plate with the meat and accoutremants on it was placed on top of two other plates for them to eat off of. Last but not least he went to the wine rack and selected a nice New Zealand red. Grabbing up the wine tool he balanced everything and headed back outside. Setting the goodies down on the table he looked over at Lexie

"You want to play chef or bartender?"

Lexi Trent · Foxy Hati

Lips turned upward at one corner, smiling around the black stick as she inhaled. His simple response spoke a lot louder than some long, drawn-out thank you. The simplicity of it suited her just fine.

The mention of Lola and Sean had a fond look crossing over her face. She absolutely adored those two. The news that Sean might be coming back was welcome, but she couldn't blame Lola for deciding to stay in Alaska. That was the arctic vixen's home, probably full of the familiar things that the young woman was used to. A slight smirk as she flicked ashes into the ashtray.

"We foxes are rather a rare lot.. but I hope you're right. It gets lonely being the only one here. At least I've got you wolves to keep me company though."

Green gaze watched as he ground out the glowing tip of his cigarette, a brow slowly rising as she watched him chase the cinders about until they were all extinguished.

"Certainly." A last quick puff from the addicting stick before she ground it out along the edge of the ashtray's bowl. So much easier to catch it entirely. Then, slipping the towel from her body to dry her hair a bit more, she threw it across her chair and headed for the grill. She fiddled with it and eventually got it going only to move to the open door at Ash's question.

"Red's fine. Need any help?"

As he came into sight doing a balancing act, she moved out of the way so he could set stuff down, though she helped by moving things around so that they were easy to get to. The bottle of wine was snatched from the table so that she could look at the label.

"Why, bartender, of course. It's my specialty, don't you know."

A saucy little wink before noticing he'd forgotten glasses. So she headed inside, to the kitchen, and hunted out a couple glasses. When she returned, she set about opening the bottle. After all, it was a sin to have perfectly good wine sitting there and not drink some. Crouching down beside the table so that her eyes were on level with the glasses, she poured equal amounts into each before straightening. One glass was pushed toward him, while she took up the other. It was swirled about in her glass as that sensitive nose took a deep sniff of it.

"What shall we drink to?"

Ashes Of Faith · Lukois' Lucifer

Chef it was. Not that there was any specific art to making a burger. Especially when the people involved prefer their meat still mooing. Scraping off the grill he would then use the spahtula to take those two thick juicy patties and place them on the heat. Immediately a sizzling noise was made and the air filled with that aroma of juicy cooking meat. Ash was quick to close the lid. Everything tasted better with a little help from the smoke. Already his stomach was rumbling, making him positive that it was eat now or his stomach would eat him.

Spatula was set aside on the grill tray and he turned to Lexie, taking up the glass of wine she offered he held it up for a toast and tried to think what they should drink to. There were so many things they could drink to in gratitude. Joy that the pack was together and safe for the moment. But there were also plenty of tragic things still going on at the moment. Still a happy toast was always better than a sad one. A certain Irish toast came to mind and made the corner of his mouth turn up in a half smile.

"Here's to you as good as you are and me as bad as I am. But as good as you are and as bad as I am, I'm as good as you are as bad as I am."

It was a little hard to swallow, but it was a traditional pub toast that had always tickled his funny bone.

"No, I'm kidding. How about peace. I think we could all do with a bit of that."

Reaching out he clinked his glass with hers before lifting it to generous lips and taking a long drink of the dry red wine. Marcus had superb taste in wine and an uncanny ability for finding rare vintages. Not so uncanny he supposed since the man was alive at the time they were made. Through their friendship Ash had accrued quite the wine collection, ordering by the case to keep the best ones stocked.

"Alright what do you like on your burger? Cheese, but what else? I have lettuce, tomatos, ketchup, mustard, onions."

Looking over the things he had laid out he grabbed up two thick slices of cheddar cheese. Opening the grill he flipped the burgers over and laid the cheese right on top. Two on his if she didn't want any, one on each if she did. Then the grill was closed again. Only a few more minutes now and the burgers would be crispy on the outside and bloody on the inside. Just how he preferred it. Turning to the table again he opened the two buns and proceeded to make them just as she requested. One open faced bubn on one plate and the second on another.

"You should give Sean a call sometime Lexie. I think he's still working at the lycan clinic in Salem, and going to school. That was the main reason he stayed I think. Not wanting to leave in the middle of the semester. If you called him though and invited him to come I'm sure he would once his finals were over."

Ash cut a glance in her direction to see her reaction. Sure he could have made the call, but Lexie was the fox. He was hoping through her relations to the pack she would build confidence to one day be a leader herself. Things like this would get her started in the right direction. After those few minutes the burgers were done and he opened the grill again, cheese was melted and the patties looked perfect. Scraping them off he laid them on the buns then closed them up and held Lexies out to her before taking a seat once again.

Lexi Trent · Foxy Hati

She may have been a tomboy growing up, but she had never liked working with a grill. Probably due to the time her brother had thrown a charcoal brickette at her.. while it was lit. Seven years old and second degree burns on her shoulder. It was likely to turn anyone off to working with a grill, whether it was charcoal or propane. So, she watched as he worked with the patties and then turned to take up his glass of wine.

The toast that had that smile flirting about his lips made her chuckle, green eyes sparking with mirth. However, the more serious toast was just as good as the amusing one.

"To peace, then."

Glasses clinked and she lifted hers just a little in a small salute. Whether the salute was to him or not, was beside the point. A sip of the liquid had a brow quirking upward. It was some damn fine stuff.

"Oh, cheese and ketchup is fine." She hated putting too much stuff on a burger. It detracted from the juicy meat's unique flavor.

She soon reclaimed her chair and watched him work, studying the various scars and inked designs. Curiosity was a trap that the vixen tried not to fall into very often, but she couldn't help wondering how some of those scars had come about. The one on his leg, for instance, looked much worse than her shoulder had. Luckily, those marks were long since faded to the point where you had to search for their signs.

Right hand rubbed at the four faint round marks on her left forearm, not really thinking about the motion until Ash's comment about Sean forced her mind back to the here and now. Glass was turned between her hands as she listened, nodding a bit when she felt his gaze touch her.

"Not a bad idea. I still have the number for the clinic in my phone," hand reaching toward her foot, only to realize she wasn't wearing boots, thus her phone was not on her person. "I'll do that tomorrow."

Stomach grumbled just as Ash set the patties on the buns and passed hers over to her. Now, some women might feel the need to eat all daintily if they were in the company of men, but not Lexi. No, she didn't care about things like that. The burger looked delicious and she was hungry. So, she tucked in with gusto. After a couple bites, she paused to sip her wine and send him a smile.

"My compliments to the chef."

This had turned into a very pleasing afternoon and evening. Good company, good food, even better wine. The only thing that could possibly make it better was more good company, but for now, this would do. Besides, it wasn't everyday that she got to spend time with the Ulfric and make little jokes to force rarely heard laughter out of him. It was good for him to laugh every now and then and she fully intended to see that he did, whether she had to dress in a clown costume and stand on her head trying to juggle or not.

Ariadne · Hope of Rome

A day off. The bar was left in Barbie's hands. Which was Lyric's way of leaving Andrew the Rat-Prince in charge. Fingers adjusted the strap of her suit. A black whole piece number. Then again most of the suit was missing the back, parts of the sides too. Her phat bottom snug in the material bathing suits were made of. Bare feet padded along the wooden floors as she headed to the glass door.

"Memphis is this even?"

She asked the bald man. He was taking the day off too. It was Lyric's orders. Though for someone like Lyric to be ordering about a man like Harry was comical. Sliding the glass door open, the waft of fresh made burgers hitting her nose. Honey in the light colored hues stared at Ash and then at Lexie's tasty treat. A wave of her hand as she smiled to Daddy and the foxy lady. A kiss was blown to Lexie with a playful wink.

"Is there anymore on da grill?"

Question was asked with a little smile, hoping so. If so, head turned to Harry batting long lashes. Lower lip in a pout.

"Ya want one Memphis? Ah make ah mean burger, and ya know it."

Brows wiggled in a way that was hinting at something far more than what her words were letting on. Lyric was just teasing of course. She and Harry worked together, and she more than anything annoyed the man with her constant fixing, rearranging of stuff at the bar. Not to mention her mumbles about laws, and cases and whatever else that made the man dizzy. But, Lyric was finding more and more excuses to be at the bar when Harry was there.

Oh she knew he was with Dakota. Still, hard not to find this attraction to the man. Spending as much time with him as she did now-a-days. He wasn't the type she had gone for before. All sort of seeming bad-boy wanna-bes. Sirus, Kyle, even her crush on Jay-Jay. Harry was far from tall and tattooed or that even oozing of "womanizing" charm. Harry was the only one to catch her on her behavior when it came to Ash bringing back Silent. He didn't encourage her bad behavior. He went out to tell her something about it.

Those honey hues stared at Harry a little longer than she should have. Lyric noticed, she turned away when she finally caught herself. Walking quietly to the pool, confident in her ability to swim. Feet pushed off from the deep end to splash into the water in a dive. The minute she hit water she was thanking Lou for teaching her. Legs moved in a confident stride, her arms breaking water as she took a lap to the other end. Bubble rising to the surface letting everyone know she was okay and her position in the pool.

Ashes Of Faith · Lukois' Lucifer

Any chef would probably have a fit over that compliment since making a burger was about as hard as falling off a log, but Ash gave a nod of acquiesence at the kind words. The burger was a two handed job since he preffered his loaded down with all the sides he could get. Still he ate with care. Watching to make sure nothing would dirty him or cling in the patch of hair on his chin. The sound of the door opening turned his head to see Memphis and Lyric coming out to enjoy the swimming pool.

Things had been rocky between himself and the song bird. Their relationship strained because of things on both sides. They hadn't really spoken since the night Silent came home. Which was probably to be expected. Still Ash understood Mahina being slow to come around to Silent again, but he had no idea why Lyric was so unforgiving. There were alot of changes, and looking up at Memphis he couldn't help but think about the most recent development.

"You alright mate?"

Voice was soft as he asked, knowing Memphis was not really one to chatter away about his problems. Dakota going back to Ireland to study with another vargamour was understandable. Necessary even, but it was still difficult to readjust. Ash had been thinking about calling an old friend to step in temporarily, filling the position so the pack was not left without human eyes and ears. Without a vargamore to care for them.

"There's more in the fridge if you want to throw them on the grill."

Answering Lyrics question gave him the opportunity to watch the look that she gave Memphis. Not sure what to think of it he left it alone for the moment. Too many deminsions to that issue for him to go into it. Besides, this was supposed to be a nice casual evening. He could save the spanish inquisition for another time.

Lexi Trent · Foxy Hati

As if someone had been reading her thoughts, Lyric and Memphis headed out the door to join them. A smile touched her lips, though she waited until she'd finished the bite she'd just taken from her burger before blowing a kiss right back at Lyric.

"Evening, sexy love." A wink for Lyric. "Memphis." A nod and smile for the bald man. She knew about Dakota's departure, but she wasn't going to say a word about it. If he wanted to talk about it, he would, otherwise, she was staying out of all the emotional stuff.

"What have you two lovely people been about?" A tilt of her head as she asked, before biting into her burger again.

After another sip of wine to wash the bite down, she watched as Lyric entered the pool. Green gaze tracked the other woman's progress through the water before lifting to glance at the moon.

Then attention shifted back to the remaining third of her burger, which was quickly finished. After all, she was hungry and with the food finished, she could sit back, enjoy the wine, and chat with the others.

Harry Canyon · Taxi Driver

(Since Ivy lied about not putting Dakota in another game. I am playing off the new history she is using for Dakota and not off what she said in her EMail. I think that is only fair.)

-:Memphis followed Lyric outside to the backyard, smelling those juicy burgers just off the grill. A thick hand held open the door as he stood in that doorway, a pint glass with a margarita on the rocks cooling his free hand. Nothing like a Memphis special margarita on a bright sunny day. At the question about being alright his heavy shoulders gave a shrug.:-

"She made her choice. She wanted a life in England, and obviously not a life with me."

-:Did it hurt? Bet your ass it did. Memphis didn't show it but he had been in love with the woman and she had just left. All because of some shit that was her fault to begin with. She attacked Evie in public, got punished, couldn't take it and ditched. On the pack, on their relationship, on everything that she had said she cared about. That was not a wound that would easily heal. He'd be carrying it around for a long time. And there was a huge fucking diamond at the bottom of his sock drawer that was gonna be useless now. So much for marriage and eternal bliss. Not that he believed in those things anyway. Not anymore.+

"I'll go back in and get some more."

-:Whatever looks were being cast in his direction were missed. His mind was focused elsewhere and there wouldn't be a part of him that would notice other women for awhile. Having been completely devoted to one for so long he didn't even know how to see the others. The margarita was set down on the table as he turned and went back inside to the kitchen. Searching through the fridge he found the burger patties and brought them back out with him. Raising his runmbling voice to reach Lyric in the pool he held the bag of meat patties aloft.:-

"I'm gonna set these over here whenever you're ready Lyric."

-:Wouldn't cheat her out of making her patented burgers. Not in the mood for the pool at the moment he pulled out a chair near Lexie and across from Ash. A cheek brushed against the foxes lightly, stubble rough on her skin. Then that bulky form was leaned back against the chair as he rubbed at his forehead like someone with a headache. Sunglasses were pulled from where they hung at the neck of his shirt and slid over his stormy eyes. That was better. Those eyes were red rimmed and sore and it wasn't something he wanted anyone to see. Kind of went against the whole rough tough image. Grabbing up the margarita glass he took a long drink.:-

"I think I'm gonna need to bring a whole pitcher of this out here."

-:Yeah, drinking right now would be very good. Maybe even break into Silents stash of faery wine. Turning to Lexie he tried to think of something to say. Anything. It was hard because all he wanted to do was rant and rave in anger, or sob his heart out. Women were such a pain in the ass.:-

"So uhhh Lex. You met the new vargamore yet? Ash you aughtta call her up so we can get a look at her."

-:Head leaned back to eye Lyric.:-

"You met her right Lyr?"

Lexi Trent · Foxy Hati

Anger stirred briefly within the vixen, but was ruthlessly shoved back in its little box. She had liked Dakota and wouldn't say anything bad about her, but she hated the way Memphis looked right now. She'd caught a glimpse of the red-rimmed eyes, a sure sign that the big man had been reduced to tears at some point. So, what was the vixen to do? Why, attempt to cheer the big man up, though she seriously doubted that it would work for a long while.

When that stubbled cheek brushed her own, she placed a very light and chaste kiss to it. Something small to show her sympathy without bringing a whole lot of emotion into the casual evening. After all, she didn't know Memphis well enough to do more, nor was she sure he would appreciate her doing more than that. Hell, it was a gamble as to whether that one light kiss would get her into trouble.

At his question, she shook her head.

"Can't say that I have."

Legs crossed as she leaned back against the lime green towel she'd draped over her chair. It was still damp, but not chilly enough to bother her. A slight nod across the table in Ash's direction.

"We were thinking about sending a memo to the criminal headquarters for a two-week cease fire so we could all have a vacation. Think it would work?"

The question was loud enough that Lyric could hear, too. Honestly, she wasn't sure what else to say. She knew nothing about the new vargamore, so couldn't give much opinion on that quarter. Maybe Memphis and Lyric could add a little something to the imaginary memo that she'd come up with. Heck, maybe pigs would start flying over head, while they were at it.

Emotions were a tricky thing that she preferred to deal with as little as possible and right at this moment, she was being cautious with her words in case something might set Memphis off. Not that she would might if he wanted to rant and rave at her about the evils of woman-kind and how they delighted in injuring the men-folk. Probably even agree with some of what he had to say.

A shifting of her body in order to scratch an itch on her back and she looked over toward Lyric in the pool.

"Ash brought out some red wine if you want some, Lyric."

Ariadne · Hope of Rome

-Pulling her body from the pool. Hair was slick back, and thick with water that clung to it. The suit was a one piece with that low dipped back. Whatever looks she gave Harry, she knew were ignored. Lyric understood heartache maybe as good as the next person. Which why she didn't cross boundaries or try to push Harry in anyway that would seem wrong. He was grieving. Strange as one may think that. He was. All this ran through her mind as she made her way to the group. A smile on her lips as she looked to Harry.

Again the look she gave him was of someone with a crush. Her heart was there. Lyric knew it. Dripping wet arms wrapped around Lexi from the back, soaking the other woman in pool water. A throaty laugh bubbling free. Nose nuzzled the other woman's neck with a smile. Hearing Harry the first time she nodded. The burger patties were sitting on the table now, ready for her to make some food.

"Ah met Sevvy. She's great ta. Awesome gurl. Ah love her already. Ash and Ah went ta the movies wit Sevvy. She's funny "

What Dakota did, Lyric wasn't going to bring up. Not in present company or otherwise. Some things were best left alone. Arms moved from Lexi, to walk over to Ash pressing her lips to his cheek. She wanted to, Oh she really was tempted to just sit in his lap and cover him in water. Didn't though. Walking around to where Harry sat. A kiss was set on his cheek as well. Nothing that she wouldn't have done otherwise. Plate of patties were lifted. The turn of her head hearing Lexi ask if she wanted some red wine. A shake of her head.

"Ain't ta much inta red wine."

She commented. Hearing about the memo, she laughed softly.

"Ah think ya should. We can put somethin' like. We needs ah vacation. Two weeks. Gonna give ya enough time to make betta plans."

Her hand waved in the air as she was thinking of whatever else to say. A shake of her head when nothing else came. The plate with the patties were set by the grill. Lyric moved by the table, her hand brushing the length of Lexi's hair with her fingertips. She was going to bring the pitcher Memphis made outside. That would go down better than red wine. Well to Lyric it would.

Careful not to leave a wet trail, she pulled on the bathrobe hanging by the sliding door on and stuffed her feet into some slippers and headed to the kitchen for glasses and the pitcher, same with some seasonings for the burgers and other little fixings. Kicking the slippers off outside and tossing her bathrobe on an empty seat between Memphis and Ash.

Lyric set the glasses and the pitcher of Harry's special margarita mix on the table. After pouring herself a glass, and taking a sip. The stuff burned dear lawrd! Lyric made a face that said she wanted to cough out a lung but was trying REALLY hard not to. Swallowing one gulp, and thinking maybe of just nursing this special blend as she made their burgers.-

-- Edited by Lyric at 04:59, 2008-05-26

Ashes Of Faith · Lukois' Lucifer

It felt good just to be around the pool with family, relaxing in the warm evening air. Ash hadn't realized how much he had missed just this sort of thing. The happiness that came with moments like this. He even found himself smiling without really knowing why. Memphis was in pain now, but it would pass. The man was stronger than that. He was here, finding comfort in the pack just as they all were. This was a place to heal. Lyrics arms wrapped around him and one of his own pale hands lifted to rest on her forearm as she kissed his cheek. Hand patted her arm before she pulled away to go to the grill.

"That's a good idea Memphis. I'll give her a call and see if she can come by after work. She's probably ass deep in zombies right now, but maybe she can make a break in her schedule."

A drink of that deep red wine was taken, letting the flavor roll over his tongue before setting the glass aside to reach in his pocket for the slim black cell phone. It was removed and flipped up. The number seven hit for Severance, it rang a few times before hitting the voicemail. Figured, like he had said she was probably feeding the dead right that moment. When the beep sounded he left a message.

"Sevvy love, it's Ash. When you get a chance swing by the house. There are some people here I'd like you to meet."

No goodbyes, just a click, but Sevvy was the same way so there would be no hard feelings. True all of them lived at the house, but with the rotating door schedules around here you could go awhile and still not have met everyone. Phone was left out on the table in case Sevvy called back first. Then he reached across and flicked Lexies hand playfully so she would move it and he could grab his pack of cigarettes, snagging one and lighting it up. A long breath of smoke was released and he was able to sigh and relax into the chair, legs stretched out, feet resting on the bar under the table.

Severance · Reina de la Morte

Tired was the first word that came to mind and perfectly described the way she felt. Another long night of calling fourth the dead and she still had to meet with the rest of the pack and sit down to a private conversation with Ash. Seven years was a long time to go with out a word and yes part of her wished to know how he had been since Cassie disappeared. Though Ash believed her to be dead, it was not true and for awhile she had believed her to be gone as well but the moment she stepped from the plane it had felt as if a weight had been lifted from her shoulder and suddenly she could breath again.

It was odd that the last vargamor had thought Cassie to be dead. And just to be sure she was right in her assumption that Cass was alive she spent that very first night on her arrival searching for her until she nearly passed out due to exhaustion. A dance of exotic spells had been cast along the graves, Ash had thought her to be working and yes that was true in a way but the Ulfric did not realize that Severance had been out searching for their friend. Her hands were covered in scrapes and scratches. A bruise marked the right cheek where she had a nasty tumble into one of the graves and hair of ebony black fell in mismatched waves along delicate cheek bones.

Ribbon which had been tied up nicely in a bow now hung down to criss cross along her head, it would not take much more before the flimsy fabric fell down to lay along the ground lost and deserted like so many graves had been. Eyes of a blue rushing tide lowered, that touch of gray criss crossing the iris as she focused upon the last seven graves out before her. It would take up to much time to do them one by one and with the approach of the sun coming she knew she would have to make this last play of power be a big one.

Seven flew from the tombstone in which he had been sitting to fly over and fall to her shoulder. A look to him was given before eyes fell to a close and she let herself go. Power cold and forceful spread out of her like that of a erupting volcano, it's ashes flooding out like that of invisible fingers. Light she felt as if her own soul was leaving her body to join in those fingers, a step was taken as she lifted arms up and then brought them down once more to push those ghostly fingers through the Earth's soul. Then like a rush she hit the wall of several which had her stumbling back in her body, Seven called out when she pulled that familiar blade of hers from her pant pocket. Not stopping in fear that she would loose the corpses before she had fully awakened them. She brought up the knife and down she hacked it across the elbow of her left arm. Crimson red came out with a gasp from her lips to trickle down to spill in a puddle along the ground. Bringing injured arm up she turned walking around the graves in a circle, blood spilling to mark at each one. Offering a bit of life to the dry wasted soil, Seven threw out his wings when her arms flew out to say the usual ritual words.

" Strangers of thy Earth, with blood I call you from your graves."

The blade was thrown out to stab at the dirt directly in the middle of the graves

"Hear me now strangers for I call with steel, blood and power. Arise from your graves and walk among us"

The Earth rolled away like water and practically spit the bodies from their resting places. Severance looked to them and then turned with a wave of her hand which had them coming toward her and once they were in reach she held out that arm to them and one by one they grabbed at her to push their greedy mouths along the open wound sucking like that of newborn babes to their mother's breasts. Seven jumped to the air and took to his usual task of circling the area, after having fed them she yanked her arm back. It took a few moments for their heads to clear enough and when that part of humanity hit to them she took her turn in asking them the usual question regarding Cassie. The same answers again. That neither had see nor knew of her death, shaking her head she sighed and turned them to prepare their self's.She walked around the seven zombies and at each one touched to their forehead with her bloody fingers and spoke out.

" With blood I bind you seven to your graves"

Turning I took to the knife again and touch the end of it to each and every one of them before uttering.

" With steel I bind you seven to your graves"

Next a container of salt was picked up and walked around the seven one last time. Dumping it into her hand she threw it at each of them before speaking out

" With salt, I bind you seven to your graves. Go and rise no more"

With in a blink of an eye the zombies were consumed back by the crumbled earth. Like that of a beast whom had just rippled it's fur. The Earth took them capture once more, a sigh before she then threw salt up into the air just as Seven swooped down to spread wings out in a wide circle above the graves. The salt hit the obsidian of his wings and down he touched to each grave stone offering it a touch of his beak before he then returned to Severance's out stretched hand. Just in time to because the sun was arising allowing it's first kisses of light to caress the new days dew of the Earth's grass. Moving back toward the rental car she lowered to retrieve her bag of deathly goodies. A seed was taken from one of the many pockets to give to Seven. Next thing she knew she had passed out with in the drivers seat and took that moment to take a cat nap.The sound of her phone at first didn't register but then a beep indicated that she had voice mail. Eyes flew open and she took a second to punch in her password. Ash's voice spilled out and over her helping her to come back to reality. She pushed send to try him back but for some reason her phone didn't connect. A look to it had her knowing why, darn battery.

It seemed she would have to throw down the extra forty for a better battery, ignition was turned on and with in fifteen minutes of the call she found herself pulling into the drive way. She needed a shower but that would have to wait she wanted to make sure everything was alright first so she slipped from the vehicle and headed around back not bothering to stop until she came into sight Of Ash, he hadn't said goodbye at the end of the call but she understood why and understood perfectly. Neither her or Ash liked to say goodbye and had promise at their last interaction seven years ago when they parted ways that they never again would say it, he had kept to his promise and so of course had she. Lyric was there to as well as a few others in whom she hadn't met yet.
Seven was locked to her bare shoulder, bare because some time during the zombie raising one of the rotted corpses had taken to ripping her shirt down. Luckily it only showed a shoulder.

The rest of the black material that was her shirt was covered in mud along with her own crimson blood. Along the other shoulder rested her army bag of burial tools. Jeans were a faded black with the knees missing, she could not help but smile despite her wreck less appearance. It after all was good to be here among people whom she would soon call her family.

Moving toward them she allowed the bag to fall from her shoulder with a thud to the ground,
Seven took that moment to grab at the loose black ribbon that was in Sevvy's hair and with a leap he flew over the ground. Nearly squawked out with protest when the ribbon was dropped by accident to fall down upon the Ulfric's head.

Hair was messy before with the ribbon, but with out it those wild locks hung down to flop along her curvy waist. Hand came up to swat quickly at it before any looked over her way. One hand shot out in a wave to greet at them as she slowly made her approch the wind now taking it's turn at playing with her hair, that cold that was her power creeped out to touch toward the ground at their feet and with it came a chill to their souls. Again it wasn't being used to hurt them it was a response in which she could not help especially when one dealt with the dead. Lucky her huh?though more like lucky seven.

-- Edited by Severance at 21:40, 2008-05-26

Lexi Trent · Foxy Hati

Water dripped down her body as Lyric wrapped those wet arms around her and nuzzled her neck. Tipping her head back, Lexi placed a kiss on the other woman's cheek with a brief touch of her hand to the wet arms around her. Yes, Lexi needed to be here more often, surrounded by the pack.

Slight grin as Lyric agreed with her memo idea. A look was sent to Ash as if to say 'See, it could work' though she didn't say the words aloud. Leg was lifted, planting her foot in the chair so that she could rest her chin on her knee. More often than not, the vixen preferred to lounge in positions that some people might think were terribly uncomfortable. It was part of the whole 'bad girl' act that she'd taken on when she left London. Not that she would be sharing that information with anyone.

Gaze turned up to the sky while she listened to the others, Lyric at the grill, Memphis beside her, and Ash making his phone call to the new vargamore. The flick to her hand returned her attention to Ash and she waited until he had the pack of cigarettes in his hand, starting to pull it toward him, before she snagged one of the little sticks herself. Placing the black-papered thing between her lips, she snagged the lighter once he'd finished with it. It was something for her hand to do while they waited for this 'Sevvy' to come by.

The thud of something hitting the ground and an unknown scent grabbed the vixen's attention and she caught the first sight of the woman.. and her bird? Well, that was interesting all on its own. The creeping cold made the russet-pelted beast within uncomfortable and set it to pacing its metaphysical cage. Lexi, of course, wasn't about to give any sign that the cold bothered her, instead studying the woman carefully with that emerald green gaze. My, my, my.. paradise seemed to bring in the lovely people like moths to a flame.

She kept her mouth shut, however, not offering any greeting until an introduction had been made. A look toward Ash and she soon lost that composed look, laughter spilling from her lips at the sight of that ribbon on his head.

"Lovely fashion statement, dear, but it doesn't particularly go with your outfit." Snickering continued as she took up her wine to hide behind. He wouldn't retaliate against a woman with wine in her hand, would he? Let's hope not.

Ashes Of Faith · Lukois' Lucifer

At least it wasn't poop. That was what he told himself anyway when that ribbon fluttered down onto his head. Lexis joke was rewarded with a scowl as he reached up to pull the silken ribbon from his dishevlled black hair. Looping it around his finger he turned to look at Sevvy. There was a slight darkening to those lightning kissed blue eyes when he saw the state that she was in. Dakota hadn't really worked her powers much, not actively, so he'd missed out on seeing her come home from raising the dead. If this was what it was like then it was one vocation he was glad to have no part in. Reaching out he let pale fingers circle Sevvys slender forearm, drawing her close so she could sit on his lap a moment.

"Lexi , Memphis, may I present to you Miss Severence. Sevvy. Our new vargamore."

Distracted as he spoke Ash worked his tattooed fingers through Severences long dark hair, brushing out the locks carefully so as not to pull too hard. When the mass of hair was in some semblence of order he pulled it back at the nape of her neck. Holding it together he took care with the black silk ribbon, tying it into a simple bow to keep the hair in place.

"And Sevvy this is Lexi, and Memphis. Very dear friends, and pack members from back in Salem."

The introductions were warm on both sides, these were people that he cared for and it showed in the warmth that suffused that crisply accented voice. Patting Severences back lightly he waited for her to stand again then got out of the chair himself so that she could take his place. Moving around the table he gathered up the dishes to take them into the house. Once inside Ash would not only clean up the dishes and the small mess in the kitchen from Memphis's margaritas but he also went into his bedroom to get some hydrogen peroxide, neosporin, and bandages from the first aid kit Silent had given him. The kit had been a joke between them, not something they ever actually needed, so he doubted she would mind him using it. Carrying the kit back outside he set it down on the table in front of Severence before taking a seat in one of the empty chairs.

Harry Canyon · Taxi Driver

-:Lyrics face at the strenght of his special 'rita blend had him smirking. Not everyone could take it. That was the point. With a shake of his head he pulled the thick cuban cigar from out of the pocket of his gaudy Hawaiian shirt. It was unbuttoned over a dingy wifebeater, worn with a pair of khaki cargo shorts. A real fashion staple. The plastic cellophane wrapper was rolled between his fingers until he peeled it off. Cigar was run just beneath his nose as he breathed in the smell with a sigh. The night was looking up.:-

"Hey Lyr, why dontcha hit the remote and put on some Coltrane. Give us a little night music."

-:Never hurt to have a little atmosphere. Holding out his glass he let Lyric top his drink off before taking another long drink. When the woman of the hour came he watched her with white blue husky eyes. Not judging necessarily. Just curious. Her power was thick on the air competeing with his cigar smoke and he drew the smell in. It was familiar even though he knew it wasn't who he thought it was. Leaning back in the patio chair he rocked slightly, bouncing, and gave a small wave with the hand holding his cigar.:-

"Nice to meetcha Sevvy."

-:And it was nice to meet her. Even if her being there only cemented the fact that someone else was gone, and things would never be the same.:-

Severance · Reina de la Morte

Her arms rose up above her head in a long stretch but instantly fell back down when that black ribbon of hers took to landing along the Ulfric's head and with that a small laugh echoed from her mouth. At least it hadn't been done purposely to Ash unlike the time when Seven took to doing a awful number on his shoulder. She had felt eyes on her the instant that bag had dropped so turning her attention toward Lexi she would offer the softest of smiles and with that the power that was of the graves would be pushed aside and up instead she would throw her shields in order to keep that power from bothering the woman as well as the rest.

It tended to have a mind of it's own that energy, and just like their counter animals her power was a pet in it's own way and only the crow the messenger who carried the souls understood it. Scary in it's own rightful way and feared by that of the undead and blood suckers, there was a reason after all that at a time it had been said that all necromancers were to be taken out. No more then two should ever be in the same place, it was said that they could bend a vampire to their wills like puppets dangeling from strings.

That look of Ash's was caught and with it she would stare back for a moment, those tides of blue shifting to reveal a cloud of gray and then another smile to him to reassure him that she was made of tougher stuff that what most thought her capable off. After all her first vampire kill had been at the age of seven and of course she hadn't understood her powers then and it had been pure luck in her case or at least that's what she believed though now she questioned it. When she grew close enough to Ash his hand came out to collect her by the arm and for a moment a slender brow had raised being that she knew Ash wasn't one for touching or at least he hadn't been in the past and for her it was still some to get use to, it wasn't that she was cold toward the touch it was just that a lot often shied away due to her power. But his touch made her feel at ease and she found herself anxious to meet the rest of the pack.

Already she had met some and had instantly connected with them, hopefully the rest would come to trust her soon but she knew it wasn't always smooth sailing and they had already had one Vargamor leave them. Her training had taken place at an early age and though she still had a little to learn she felt as if it could be done better here because with the pack she would have that part of her life that was missing, a family and with that family her powers would only intensify in her desire to protect. The muniun here was strong as well and they wished her audience so it was nearing the time when a meeting would be needed the Lupanar Circle would be formed and with that she would touch to the departed members of the pack and help to unite a stronger bond.

She didn't fight his gentle hold to her arm so when he drew her in she took to sitting along his lap, hands folding carefully along her lap while feet tucked under the chair beneath them.

Her gaze looked to the ribbon in which he had wrapped along his finger and she went to take it back offering up soft yet apologetic eyes. However when he spoke names out she dropped her attention away from the ribbon and looked up to meet the eyes one at a time of Lexi and Memphis. A light nod followed by a smile that lit up the Necromancers eyes, Seven took that moment to land easily upon a tree branch, wings of obsidian spread out wide before then folding under him as he made himself comfortable. Her voice was smooth and held a certain distinguishable accent to it when she spoke out to them, each word granted sounded as if it was caressed by her tongue. A very calming effect due to the art of practiced patience and the will to ease fears, she could ease as well as bring upon the wraith of deathly apparitions/zombies a interesting combination.

" It's a pleasure to meet you both, I look forward to getting to know you bothas well as to help in any way that I can, and I apologize in advance for the crow, hopefully he will not disturb any of you. His name is Seven and he is my familiar of sorts . It's an honor to be here and to be a part of the Crimson Snow Pack.."..

Her eyes remained on them for a moment and then with the feel of Ash's fingers trailing through her hair she sighed contently and allowed eyes to shut for a brief moment. Hands came up to rub at the lids and then with a flutter of long dark lashes she looked back at him and wondered if he had remembered that when she was younger it was something she had always liked, fingers in her hair and even now she was the same. The unruly locks were a raven black and some swore they saw a streak of lavender in them and perhaps that is why it seemed to attract attention. Either way she wasn't about to complain. When he took to tying it back for her she offered a smile over her shoulder to him, hand came up in time to touch to his hand just as he was lowering them.

A squeeze of thanks was offered to that hand of his and then when her hand pulled back it went up and with two fingers she pressed them to her lips and blew the kiss at him. Something she had done when she was younger and still did with him and with Cassi... There were some things that she had to talk to Ash about later and she hoped he was prepared for the shock that would come when he learned that their friend Cass was alive..

She was already starting to rise when that pat to her back came and instead of taking a seat she moved to Lexi and offered a hand to her. Would have touched to her face but the woman seemed cautious a trait that Severance respected. Hand lefts hers and over to Memphis she moved his eyes seemed sad and she didn't understand why but leaning down she brushed her cheek along his only for a split second, hand touched to the other cheek as she whispered.

" Sorry for your loss "

Of course she had no idea how close to the truth she was, it just seemed as if the man had lost something dear to him and she wanted to only offer up her respects. Moving from him while Ash was gone she moved to Lyric a bright smile caressing her full lips. She had already met Lyric and had been out with her and had already grown to care for her so leaning in she brushed the woman's cheek.

"Hope all is well song bird, it's great to see you again."

When Ash came back out carrying the kit she would move toward the table just as he sat it down and a nod of gratitude would be given before she pulled out a few bandages and moved toward the house calling over her shoulder.

" I am going to do this inside, we don't need you all going furry on the account of my blood now do we?"

A smile was granted to all again before she slipped into the house shutting the door quietly behind her.

-- Edited by Severance at 13:10, 2008-06-12

-- Edited by Severance at 13:20, 2008-06-12

Mahina · Hawaiian Wolf

"Is there room for one more?"

Mahina asked as she popped her head out of the sliding door. Smiling, she made her first move to Ash and kissed his cheek with a soft cradle of her hand to his opposite. It was something Mahina has done since first meeting him. Then Lexi was given a nuzzle of her own and a hug.

"Nice to see you foxy lady, been awhile and we need to plan like a luncheon or dinner to catch up."

She very much liked Lexi and she was pack like everyone else and would love nothing more then to get to know more of her and form a friendship. Lyric was greeted and hugged then to let her finish with her 'grilling', Sevvy was on her way inside and Mahina only went to her because Mahina was making her way to Memphis. She knew he was Freki and an alpha so it wasn't meant to be disrespectful. Nuzzled the Vargamore's cheek and now finally Memphis. The man needed comforting and he didn't even have to express it. She understood the meaning of loss of someone so deep in your heart. Even though with Mahina's case Akuna is dead but forever lives in her mind. With Memphis it was the second worse thing, they just walk away from you. So without further a do, Mahina greeted Memphis while she moved to do the action like she was going to sit sideways on his lap, however didn't and gave him the look 'may I?' he could refuse, she wouldn't mind. She just wanted to show the Freki some comfort. If he allowed she would resided right there in his lap, sideways and it was nothing more then to regive the comfort and warmth he gave her in her time of need. Though this case was different, still the comfort and warmth is the same. Hopefully he will let her, if so a hug would be given. Before her eyes roamed on the rest.

-- Edited by Mahina at 14:39, 2008-06-12

Lexi Trent · Foxy Hati

The scowl that Ash directed at her just had her snickering into the glass of wine. Gaze switched back to Sevvy as the introductions were made, lips tilting into a slight smirk as she nodded her head.

"Pleasure to meet you, Sevvy."

A glance was sent toward the crow when Sevvy gave its name. She very much doubted that Seven would be any trouble to her.. unless it decided to use any of her stuff as nesting material, plucked out her hair for the same reason, or decided to use that beak on her. Otherwise, she was quite sure that she'd get along just fine with the crow.

As if the bird were just another person, she called over to it, "A pleasure to meet you, too, Seven."

When Sevvy approached her and held out her hand, she shook it gently. Lexi couldn't help it if she was wary at first, it was simply how she operated. She'd have to get to know Sevvy a little better before that wariness subsided. And that shouldn't be too hard.

When Mahina appeared, lips twitched upward. After lifting a hand to remove the ciggie from her lips, the nuzzle and hug were returned, a hand touching Mahina's hair before she went to greet the others.

"That sounds lovely, pet. You just let me know when you'd like to and I'll clear my schedule." A wink and chuckle. After all, it was well known that there was no 'schedule' that the vixen adhered to. Unless you wanted to include meals that Lyric's Momma cooked, and then it was almost guarunteed that you'd find Lexi in the kitchen.

Leaning up, she grabbed the bottle of wine to refill her glass. A brow lifted as she looked toward Ash, a silent question as to whether he wanted a refill or not.

Ariadne · Hope of Rome

-Seven announced their arrival. Lyric was already turning to the scent of copper, of blood still lingering around Sevvy. The air was heavy with it and the cold brush of the Vagamore's power swept across Lyric's body and reaching out to her beast the same way it had done when Sevvy first arrived. Even before she was made the Vagamore by Ash, her wolf had recognized her as such. With Dakota that never seemed to happen. She was only in name. Pushing that thought away, Lyric stole a kiss on Sevvy's cheek before the woman entered the house.

"Ah'ma pop a burger on da grill fo ya Sev!"

A small sip of her glass with Harry's special blend. Another crinkle of her eyes. Lips smacked with a shake of her head. The request was given one of those sour faced smiles. It hit her right behind the ears with sour and the burn, man she could feel it leaving scorch marks down her throat. Pouring a little more for Memphis, and then turning away to set the music.

Hips swayed with the beat. The sound of sizzling meat. A kiss was given to Mahina when she came in for the hug and nuzzle. One finger pointing to the patties on the grill, the look asking if she wanted one. Another one was tossed on the grill anyway, if Mahina wanted it or not. It would still get eaten.-