Into the Dragon's den ~ Closed ~

It has been a very long since the she-elf as seen her home. Being a wanderer since the age of 13 when they found out what she was. The possibilities of her ability scared the towns around her home. For the longest she had been able to hide it, something happened and her secret became known.

"Keep the children away, the girl is a freak. Not one of us, don't let her corrupt the young."

It all came rushing back to her as she changed into her elven form. White hair hidden within the white cloak, only her blue cat eyes were visible. Her eyes changed when her secret became a reality for her, needing no reason to hide any longer. She was not evil, yet, her lack of trust for the humans and any others made her seem evil. Even the color of her skin had changed that day; she was not the child that everyone used to know. Being only 13 at the time, she didn't know any better. One moment everyone loved her, she was their favorite child. Next moment, she lost control in the heat of an argument and unknowingly shifting in front of them. They became afraid of the unknown.

Her age and name is now unknown to even her, ageless years have long since passed, since the elves have left. She was left behind, watching from a distance as they left one by one, leaving this world to the humans. They grew tired of what the humans were doing to the land, the control they had over the people, turning most of the elven kind into slaves. Her people left it all behind, including her. One year she sat and watched one year as some Lord of the lands built a castle on top of her home land, unknown as to who this Lord was, she always assumed it was just a human claiming more land.


She used to use magic for weapons, however over the centuries of solitude; she found very little use for them. When she became hungry she’d just simply shift into a big white panther and go hunting. It became rare that she is found in her elven form, she had always found it weak and useless. The raven form is her favorite however; leaving no tracks and hiding in the trees watching the world pass by. The only problem with either form is the simple fact that she is pure white. Although, no one looks up in the trees anymore, the hunters that come this far into the mountains are looking for the ever elusive white panther. More often than not, they never find it, leaving to believe that she doesn’t exist.

There times when she did get caught by human hunters, only to vanish from their cages in the night. Along with their guns and traps damaged, pelts from earlier hunts gone missing, food scattered everywhere and even waking up to their tents crashing in on them. Eventually, she became known as the ghost of the forest.

It is autumn right now and it was rare the hunters were out this far in the mountains, this late in the season as the snow began to fall. This time is different as she is hunting game for herself, for once not paying attention to her surroundings; all the focus was on the elk in front of her. The hunter is on the far side of the same elk, at first hunting the same game, through the telescope on the gun, caught sight of her. The sound of the gun startled both her and the elk and both bolted in different directions. She had no time to shift into raven form without the hunter seeing it; the hunter was hot on her trail. He followed her paw prints, finding her easy enough as she ran deeper into the woods. It hadn’t occurred to her the direction she ran in, moving closer towards the castle that took over her home. She paused before the castle walls, wondering for a moment as to why she would come here after so many centuries of staying away from the place. It was something she never wanted to do since the day it was built.

Another shot rang through the air behind her, leaving her no choice but to move forward. Unknown to her, the hunter managed to hit her hind leg. She did feel the instant pain rush through her, however in the fearful mindset of things didn’t allow her to acknowledge what caused such pain. Finding a fresh burst of energy she ran into the walls of the castle, hoping to hide within its garden before anyone else would find her trespassing.

The hunter cursed a few choice words, knowing the rumors and stories the castle held, fighting his own fear of the place, he moved forward unwilling to lose his target.

Years, Decades…..Millennia…………. Time had no meaning, forward, backward; His command of magic was infinite. The Eldest of all races on earth Markus Paarthurnax held an air about him that was absolute control. That bled danger and power from every pore, One of only a very small remaining bloodline of Dragons left in the mortal realm, Markus had chosen to remain in this plain of existence as the others of his kind sought new dimensions, new plains of existence, or to use their command of magic to return them to the past where lush forests, game, and solitude allowed them to hide and live undisturbed. But Markus had seen hope in the lives of humans. Since the times of the dinosaurs, when the gods had walked the earth, had breathed life into all species that now populated here. Dragon’s were blessed above all others with Intellect, magic, and immortality.

For Millennia, Markus had silently guided humans. Walking the earth hidden, using servants, magic and his influence over all creatures to shape and form development In the late 10th century he’d constructed this castle, shrouded, protected, a haven for creatures like him. As centuries past and he found new species, new evolutions within the ranks of humans. Creatures that would all too soon fall into legends, and fables, Were-wolves, vampires. Creatures of the night who roamed the forest once as proud hunters, then Humans began to expand, forests began to shrink. Markus had guided them to his castle. One simple rule, one guiding principle that he gave to everyone “come in peace, or leave in pieces”

Markus had eyes and ears around the world, telling him of events across the seas. He paid particular attention to reports of supernatural occurrences, sightings, killings. The witch hunts of old Salem had angered him as humans had again begun to rediscover the power of magic and had given him hope. Then those without the power became jealous, bitter, choosing to hunt and kill those who were different. Markus withdrew to his castle, using his network of spies, his servants and minions to guide weary “supernaturals” to his home.

The nights were growing cooler, as autumn began to set in, Markus had taken to walking the grounds of his castle. As large as it was, he enjoyed the smell of the trees. Smell of the air itself. The moon was nearly full tonight and he basked in the glory of it. The Blessing of his goddess, the full moon always meant his powers were at their peak. His connection to nature and the elements solid, his long hair was tied back into a pony tail, his coat flowing around behind him with the breeze. New rumors had been whispered to him. A Female had entered his lands, an elf, which was rare enough, as they too had chosen to hide in the past and had asked for his help. But even rarer was her ability to shift, not just one form, but two completely different forms. And that intrigued him, enough to draw him from his rooms and studies to wander the nights searching for her.

Then the sound came to him, faint at first, labored breathing, he smelled a human, gun powder on the wind. Then the first rifle shot and Markus frowned, turning his head one side to the other. Gauging the sounds, distance, and direction of travel, then he felt that tremor, the ancient runes, and magic wards that marked the boundaries of his lands were triggered a shifter had crossed his gates, and then he sensed the human and heard a second rifle blast and his temper flared. The shifter was being hunted, and that forced Markus into action. With grace he moved through the woods, following the tingle of the wards and magic that coursed around him he found what he sought. The scent of blood, what the hunter chased was injured. Wrapping the cloak of shadows around him Markus rested against a tree, unseen to all eyes he watched the white panther ran past him and it gave him momentary pause. But the vial cursing and bumbling actions of the hunter again drew his attention.

Markus moved with purpose, as the hunter passed him Markus uttered a guttural sound, and the winds rose to his call. Within minutes a heavy fog had settled across his land, and he moved from the shadows, as the hunter lost track of his location, grew confused and disoriented Markus shadow followed his voice a guttural growl of anger “Leave……..human…….” a hiss of sound enough to chill the blood of even the toughest warrior Markus stepped from the fog. Fear, sweat, permeated the air around the Hunter as he took in the shadow of a male before him. “You trespass on my lands…….leaveeeee” Panic was etched across the humans face as he fumbled with his gun and raised it. Markus gave an irritated snort “that will do you no good here” And then the third rifleshot rang out and Markus body jerked. Markus stood there, his gaze leveled at the smoking barrel of the rifle he’d just been shot with and an inhuman deep growl rumbled from his throat. Markus lifted his hand and uttered another guttural sound. There was a flash of orange/red as Markus toasted the human with a fireball

“Idiot….” Markus looked down at his ruined coat and the blood staining his shirt. Closing his eyes Markus voice carried on the wind. Soothing, deep he called to the female that prowled nearby, a whisper on the wind

“calm yourself, you are safe here”

She proceeded to travel further into the gardens till she heard sounds of another potential human. The growling threw her off however, never hearing such sound come from a human before. The sudden fog that filled the area around her didn’t feel natural either, and it hid her from the scene that was behind her. Another shot from the rifle echoed in the air making her pause a moment, wondering who the hunter is shooting at. Within moments, through the fog, she caught sight of what appeared to be fire and briefly hearing the screams from the hunter, the scent of burning flesh overwhelmed her senses.

She couldn’t remember the last time she has seen magic other than her own and it made her curious as to who this other human was. The castle radiated with power and it sent chills up her spine, then suddenly his voice reached her ears. In that same moment, the pain in her thigh increased and when she finally looked to see what was causing it, she cursed at herself first, then towards the hunter for staining her white fur. It was very rare that she allowed her guard down so much to let a hunter find her so easily; this thought only made her angry with herself more than anything.

But then there’s this other human, claiming that it was safe to come out. It took her several moments before deciding on what to do, debating if she should just keep running, or allow her curiosity to take over. Shifting into raven form and flying out is risky without knowing how the wound would affect the raven form, shifting into the elven form just made her feel weak. It was all too overwhelming and thanks to that hunter, she had lost her meal for the night.

After much debate, a white panther finally emerged from the garden, favoring her right hind leg as she walked towards the strange man. She kept some distance from him, with ears back and tail twitching, blue eyes watching intently to see what he would do and ready bolt if needed.

Markus took his time, as he dusted his hands as if cleaning them he didn’t need to look for the shifter, he felt her, the scent of her blood still hung in the air, at least to him. She was wounded and would need medical care. With an annoyed sigh he gave one last glance to the charred remains of the hunter then turned, his arms crossed over his chest, hiding the wound that even now was beginning to heal, the bullet having already been pushed free of his flesh and fallen to the ground as his rapid healing took over. “Bloody humans and their guns….waste of time” he muttered to himself. Hearing the soft rustling behind him he turned, hands moving to rest on his hips. His cold steel grey eyes watching as the panther limped into view. Markus muttered softly and again the wind shifted. Markus just watched the panther, taking in the sight of her white fur, then his gaze fell to the wound in her back leg.

“You need not remain in that form, the hunter’s dead and you are safe within my realm girl. Come, I will get you food and your wound needs to be tended” His voice was smooth, deep. His body was relaxed, no sign of tension, hesitation. His Voice betrayed no emotion what so ever as if he were ordering a drink from a serving wench. “I have been watching you for some time, I was curious if you would find your way to my castle.”

As Markus looked around the fog was already lifting, he canted his head to one side as if listening to something then his eyes refocused back on the panther “I am Markus, the Master of these lands”

She relaxed a little while listening to what he is saying. Somehow the name sounded vaguely familiar, it was around the time of when the castle was being built. But, she shook her head slightly, finding impossible that would be the same one. It wasn't impossible to believe one can live for so long, considering she had herself as proof. In her mind however, it was believed that the ones from her time no longer remained in this world.

The rest of what he said caught her by surprise, I have been watching you for some time. This she did find hard to believe, she would have known if there was something out there watching her. Tonight being an exception of course, again she grumbled to herself in frustration. With a sigh, she shifted slowly shifted into the elven form, feeling the increasing pain from the wound as it shifted with new form.

Long silver hair ran down to her knees, covering most of the naked form. As always, she felt vulnerable in this form, more so by allowing another person see her true form. She lowered her gaze towards the ground, looking over the remains of the hunter that chased her here. It made her curious to know what this man had done to him, let alone how he did it.

"Thank you.... It was my fault though, I was hunting and he caught me off guard."

She looked back up towards the man, not phased by her nudity after years of being used to it, grew tired of clothing long ago and each time she shifted, they got lost or destroyed.

"My name is....."

A confused look crossed her face, lost in a struggling thought.

"I..... I haven't heard my name in so long, I am afraid I do not remember it."

She never moved from the spot she stayed in, hesitant about following him inside, this whole time ignoring the pain that is throbbing in her leg. Her blue eyes never truly leaving him, already let her guard down once and she wasn't about to do it again. Though, she did have to admit that food sounded really good right about now. The wound on the other hand, made her leery of allowing someone else touching her to tend to it.

She thought about it some more, struggling to think of a name to give him.

"Alicia... I guess you can call me by that name."

"Thank you.... It was my fault though, I was hunting and he caught me off guard."

He cocked his head to one side, watching as she shifted with near clinical detachment, seeing the slightest of flinching around her eyes as the pain wracked her but she held it in. His brow arched as she finished shifting, his eyes took a cursory glance over her form, appreciating the lean muscle and curves. He was a male after all…She wasn’t shy, which was common among shifters after a while the same to be said with him but he found clothing to be a comfort most nights having found a style of clothing late into the 16th century he favored.

"My name is....."

He waited for her to finish but it was the look of confusion on her face that piqued his brow past his own dark hair.

"I..... I haven't heard my name in so long, I am afraid I do not remember it."

He found that curious, that one would forget their name so readily, the questions rattled through his mind as to her past, and what would make her forget her name, or if she merely was just running away from something more and choose not to give it out of fear. He ran his hand through his hair pulling it back and away from his face, his face was lean, if a bit pale from lack of sun, preferring the night to day most times he’d long lost the tan he’d had for years.

"Alicia... I guess you can call me by that name."

Markus just nodded

“I see you haven’t mastered your magic very well child, I sense you are unable to manifest clothing. Although as it comes as no surprise, most shifters of your race choose to remain nude when clothing isn’t really needed, but given the interests and curiositys of the other residents of my haven, clothing may be a safer choice”

The inflection of his voice changed as he whispered again in that guttural sound, a snap of his fingers and a myst swirled around her form, settling as fast as it appeared she found herself dressed in a casual fitted shirt and loose leggings

“there, better I think…..” Marcus’s head lifted and he gazed into the woods, his head tilted as if listening to something again before he looked back to her

"Alicia... I guess you can call me by that name."

“A pleasure to meet you Alicia, it is a bit of a hike to the castle, are you able to walk? Or shall we take a faster means of travel?”

She gave a little smirk when he called her child, making it seem as if she was only a few years old instead of centuries, wondering when was the last time he saw an elf running around. Instead of arguing about it, she held her tongue silent. It did amaze her at how easily he provided clothes for her, at the same time feeling confined within the material.

"I never had a chance to learn such magic. Also, I never had use for such items as these."

Pulling on the shirt, inspecting it and smelling it. Of course she knew what clothes were, the hunters wear such things, although they would wake up to find it all shredded. Alicia watched him closely, noticing that he seemed to be listening for something, strangely enough she couldn't hear or see anything out of the ordinary.

"I can walk.... but... I.... I don't like being indoors...."

She looked back towards the castle, then towards the woods acting as if she is about run again. It wouldn't be the first time she's went without food and after stealing from the hunters, she was sure she could take care of this wound on her own.

"I appreciate the help with that hunter.... I apologize for trespassing. But.. I really should go, I don't mix well with others."

It was then she slowly backed up and began to shift, preparing to run off.

"I never had a chance to learn such magic. Also, I never had use for such items as these."

Markus nodded, “Its understandable, many who choose to live in animal form loose practice on summoning clothes” the slightest hint of a smirk tugged at his lips but he remained stoic. Looking around he smiled, listening to the sounds of the animals, the rustling of the trees. His eyes returned to her again, inquisitive.

"I can walk.... but... I.... I don't like being indoors......I appreciate the help with that hunter.... I apologize for trespassing. But.. I really should go, I don't mix well with others."

He sighed and shook his head. Watching as she moved away from him and he felt her energy swell. “ok, so we are gunna do it that way?”

He Sighed again and run his hand through his hair pulling it back off his face, his features relaxed, falling back into his docile intriqued look. As she began to shift he reached out, warping her magic with his own and whispered a guttural command “Izferethar, delmah” the world around them just seemed to dissolve, only to reform inside a Fire warmed room, candle lit stone walls decorated with ancient tapestries and artwork “welcome, to my home”

His words caught her attention and before she could even wonder what he meant by it, she found herself in a strange room. It did frustrate her a little when he somehow stopped her from shifting, and yet he made her curious about how he can do such things. She has always wanted to learn more about different types of powers, although her trust in others and fear of the past always stopped her from doing so.

She tried to fight the panic that started to sink in, not wishing to make a scene or seem ungrateful towards his hospitality. Those blue eyes gave her away however, roaming over the room as if she is searching for an escape route. When she backed up, a little table hit her leg refreshing the nagging pain of the wound. Alicia cursed slightly under her breath, reaching down towards the wound on instinct. It wasn't till now that she realized how much blood soaked through the leggings. This made her wonder why the bleeding hadn't stopped yet, let alone why it wasn't healing faster. If nothing else it felt worse now than it did when it first happened.

"I am being honest when I said I don't do well indoors. It is a lovely home, I must admit... And it's nothing against you... It's just...."

The words became caught in her throat as her eyes glazed over in sheer pain, her hands gripping at her leg before ripping at the material. Sharp claws tore through the pant leg easy enough exposing the wound near her hip, which no longer looked like a typical bullet wound. It had blackened and appeared to be infected, a black webbed pattern slowly grew around her leg.

"What did he hit me with? Or is this.....your."

Once more the words didn't finish as this time the pain caused her to fall to the floor, unable to keep from slipping into darkness. Alicia lost quite a bit of blood, ran further than she normally does and on an empty stomache, all the events this night had to offer finally caught up to her. The shock from the wound finally sinking in, and simply pushed her into overload.

As the Teleportation spell wore off he saw the panic in her eyes. He frowned slightly as she looked around, and he instinctively knew she was looking for the door. But here in the heart of his castle she wouldn’t find a way out. He built it as a maze, should anyone ever breach his walls, attempt to attack his castle it was well defended. With all manner of Preternatural creatures that called his castle home any who dared would die. Now he watched this sprite of a girl, slowly begin to panic. At least until she slammed into the old oak table and cry out. Then he smelled the fresh blood, but now there was a taint to it and his mood darkened.

"I am being honest when I said I don't do well indoors. It is a lovely home, I must admit... And it's nothing against you... It's just...."

He watched the pain cross her face and saw the tension ripple through her muscles, he moved in a blink as she began to collapse catching her against his body and cradling her weight against him he helped lower her to the floor, saw her reaching then shredding the leggings he’d manifested for her and then his eyes saw the wound and he knew she’d been poisoned what with he hadn’t known. But he had a Doctor that specialized in preternatural medicine thank god, A Were-hawk of some renown.

"What did he hit me with? Or is this.....your."

He felt her go limp as the pain over whelmed her and he let go a foul curse and a growl that shook the room. The hunter was luckily he’d been fried in the woods. Now Markus was wondering if he should have done more. Lifting the girl in his arms he breathed a soft word “Izferethar Klen’ne” and again he flashed them from her room to a sterile, cold room. Laying her out on the table he called for Carson. A tall native male walked into the room and looked to the girl, giving Markus a scowl he moved to her.

“she’s been shot by a hunter, and poisoned by the looks of it”

Carson just nodded as he moved around the room gathering supplies he set about removing the bullet. Markus went to the door and called down the hall for Carson’s assistant, another Panther she came running, giving Markus a bow of respect before she shoved him out of the way and moved to Carson’s side. Unsure of how long she was gunna be out Carson gave her a strong dose of sedative to keep her under as he set out removing the bullet and taking a blood sample to determine what she’

Her head was pounding when she woke up, finding herself to be in a strange room, unfamiliar bed and clothes. Everything around her is unfamiliar, all except for a particular scent that lingered. It reminded her of someone she recently met, the name didn't come to her right away. In fact most of last night is a blur and only fragments started to creep in the more she woke up.

When she looked around, trying to figure out where she is and trying to remember just how she got here, she felt the bandage around her leg. Noticing that the pants were gone and all she had on were night shorts and a t-shirt, the blood stain on the bandage was a mixture of red and black. She also found that the pain was pretty much gone as she began to examine it more, taking the bandage off.

"Damn hunters anyway...."

Alicia didn't know what to do at this point, this man from last night .... this Markus... had just saved her life. Not just saved it, but also killed the hunter that did this. It wasn't in her nature to leave such a debt unpaid, but she had nothing to offer that would even come close to repayment.

She gave a heavy sigh as she got up from the bed, wondering if anyone is around. When she stood up her leg was a bit shaky from all the shock, but she managed to move around easy enough and began snooping in the room.

The door opened as Carson walked in. Standing at 6ft 4, Tanned dark Native American he stopped short, seeing Alicia was awake, he tucked his clipboard under his arm and looked her over “You’re awake, good, my names Carson, I’m the Doctor who is treating you. Come, sit on the table and let me look you over. You’ve been poisoned, but I’ve removed the bullet and the wound should heal on its own in time.”

He watched her. “Markus brought you to me to look after. How are you feeling?

In his study Markus sat by the large hearth, a book in his lap. The Histories of the Hunter family bloodlines, a cup of hot tea on the plate beside him his eyes trailed over the names. Written in draconian so that only he may read it it was bound by magic so that the pages, Like the book of life the gods kept of the human race, were filled with new pages each time a new child was born, accomplishments, kills, it was a thick tome. Dragons by their very nature were chroniclers, always watching, studying; their thirst for knowledge was unending. As he found the name he sought, feeling out the tingle of magic as he traced the names he sighed. The hunter he killed tonight was a relative of one of the more prominent hunter families which made him wonder if there would be trouble now.

With a sigh he closed the book, drumming his fingers along the cover

Alicia looked at the man and listened to everything he said, the poison explained a lot as to why the bleeding didn't stop earlier, also explained the blackness on the bandages. She watched him carefully none the less, already knowing that his hands have been touching her and who knows what else as she slept.

"Thank you..... My head hurts but I feel fine other wise."

There was some hesitation towards his request, unsure of his true intentions, he can see the lack of trust burning in those blue eyes. Eventually she slowly moved towards the table, hesitating again before finally sitting down on it. The wound had already mostly healed over with her fast regeneration. The poison had slowed it down some, other than that is appeared to be doing fine. Alicia was trying to be nice and somewhat civil about being here, despite flinching at his touch, she did her best to hold still for him.

"I've never known a hunter to use poison bullets before...."

Mostly spoke to herself as she looked down at her leg, seeing the remains of the black web pattern around the hole. It made her wonder if it'll ever go away or not, along with wondering why a hunter would be using poisonous bullets. The whole time she was tensed as he examined her, clearly not used to the contact of another person.

"Where is Markus now? And where do I find food in this place? It's been a while since I've ate, that hunter scared off my dinner last night."

"Thank you..... My head hurts but I feel fine otherwise….I've never known a hunter to use poison bullets before...."

Carson just nodded; as she slowly sat down he gave her a gentle smile. It was more than obvious she didn’t spend time around others much. But as he worked he explained to her what he was doing to help put her at ease. He worked efficiently checking her pulse, eyes and heartbeat. Nodding to himself he peeled the bandage back to look at the wound. It was healing but slowly. Grabbing his clipboard Carson made a few notes and set the paperwork aside, his eyes giving her a cursory glance noting the ears and hair color.

"Where is Markus now? And where do I find food in this place? It's been a while since I've ate, that hunter scared off my dinner last night."

Carson looked up as he returned to his desk. Sitting down he pulled open one of his books “Markus is in his study, I think he said something about doing some research and wanting to find out who that hunter was. I would think he should be around shortly. As for food I took the liberty of having the cook fire something up for you. You’re going to need protein and rest. The poison should work its way through your system in short order.”

The Door opened and Carson looked up as Markus stepped in. Closing the door behind him his silver eyes fell to Alicia and he lifted his chin slightly as he appraised her. His eyes falling to the wound on her leg then shifted to look at Carson. “How fare’s our Mysterious Snow elf?” Carson nodded and gave Markus a quick rundown of her vitals and blood test results. Markus just nodded as he turned to face Alicia once more, offering his hand to her

“Come child, ive had the servants prepare your rooms and assorted variety of foods and fruits to help aid in your recovery. After you’ve rested we can talk about your past as well as your present conditions” Markus voice was friendly, but it held that aire of a man used to having his way, expecting to be obeyed. His hair had been tied back into a ponytail, but as he shifted and turned to move away from the door for her the tips of his ears peaked through the braid.

Everything around her overwhelmed any rational thought, feeling a bit trapped within the walls of the castle. Alicia watched and listened to the two men talk, finding it interesting that he called her a Snow elf, although now that she thought about it, the name did fit her quite well. She always did follow the snow finding it easier to hunt and hide in. After sometime watching and listening, losing herself in thought Markus startled her when his attention went to her.

Again calling her child, this time her reasoning for not commenting on it was different. In the eyes of others with her attitude towards things, lack of magic use, she must appear that way. Most likely just another wild child for him to take in.

"My past? There is not much to tell... I've buried a lot of it...."

She spoke softly, almost lost to the thought of talking about the past to someone she barely met. His features caught her attention though, now that she is calmer and started to take notice of such details. His skin tone similar to her own, much taller as well, his hair black compared to the whiteness of hers. Beneath all that, it is the elven look he carried that interested her the most. Those silver eyes tried to dig into her soul, seeking out the girl she had hid. This made her look away, lowering her head to hide her eyes from him.

"You..... You did not leave this world with the others? Why would you want to stay?"

The question slipped out before she put any real thought into it, while reluctantly taking his offered hand and proceeded to follow him.

"I apologize, it is none of my business. It's just been so long since I've seen another of my kind. I didn't think any of them remained in this world."

The sudden curiosity made her feel flustered and embarrassed, quickly trying to think of something else to say in attempts to change the subject. Anything she came up with sounded foolish in her own thoughts, always ended up with childish questions. So she resorted to an earlier thought she had,

"I have no way to repay you for saving my life. I do appreciate it, more than anything and I promise to find a way to repay you."

Alicia kept her head lowered, letting her hair hide the sudden flush that rushed to her cheeks. It took everything for her to be this respectful and it also shamed her that she allowed herself to get caught up in last nights situation.

"My past? There is not much to tell... I've buried a lot of it...."

Markus nodded, his cool silver gaze watching her, the emotions play across her face, her thoughts, her feelings. He’d always been fascinated by the multitudes of emotions that people experienced, not to say he was without feelings. But after a few thousand millennia Marcus had learned to turn his emotions off, to study things with a detached and curious look on the world around him. No longer guided by emotions, or the Dragon’s instincts to hunt, kill and dominate.

"You..... You did not leave this world with the others? Why would you want to stay?"

Markus of all things was caught off guard by the comment, as they walked he turned to look at her appraisingly. It took him seconds before he realized she’d asked because of how he looked, having taken on the form of a High Elf during the times of peace amongst the kingdoms of man and “other”. So that he could better explore and interact with others after so long he’d no longer thought about his appearance. Knowing at most that the looming presence of his appearance his dragon aura had kept away most who let their baser emotions rule them.

Licking his lips slowly he turned down a long hall, majestically decorated, art, armor, weapons decorated the halls, torches burned giving the soft flickering glow Marcus thought of how to answer. Very very few knew his true race, and age. They knew his power and they respected the fact Markus was a fair and just leader or sorts to their little hovel of cast-a-ways. Cupping his hands behind his back as they walked, he spoke. “At the time, the wars and expansion of mankind drove most others into hiding. Some choose to find another plain of existence; others chose to return to a time when humans weren’t so prevalent in the world. I helped those who choose to leave.”

Markus sighed, a whimsical sound coming from him as his gaze returned forward as they walked. “It had been a curiosity at the time I suppose, to see how things would play out. To see what mankind had to offer to this world. When the Great wars between Man and the supernatural beings who inhabit this planet raged I fought alongside my brothers and others who fought. But over time, humans began to win. Fear, anger, are powerful weapons and those of us who value knowledge above power fell.”

Markus’ voice faded as he turned down yet another hall, the soft clacking of their footfalls echoing. They past a few servants who bowed graciously and more then a few of the inhabitants of his castle, a few Were-bears, wolves, jackals, and the like they just gave a nod of their head and continued on their way. Stopping in front of a door Markus nodded “here we are. You rooms..” Markus pushed the door open to reveal an expanse of room, a large hearth in the far wall had a fire blazing with a stack of wood enough to last a day or two beside it. Inside was a large bed, covered with all manner of fur and bedding to keep out the harshest of winter’s chills. Large window’d doors opened to reveal the fact they where many floors up. And that the castle itself while on the outside appeared to be small, was anything but inside.

She listened and watched as they walked through the halls, to her it started to feel like a cage compared to the tiny cabin she stole and called home. The castle is far bigger than she had ever expected, though it was not simple either with its maze like hallways. The only doors that she could see lead into other rooms, not ever seeing the main door that leads to the outside world. There were far to many people here, that alone caused her to be on edge even with the respect they were showing Markus. In her eyes there is no easy escape.

A few of the tapestries and paintings triggered some long lost memories. It took her by surprise when he spoke of the wars and how he had helped the others escape this world. It made her wonder just how old he truly is, she was very young during that time and he made it sound as if he was one of the elders of that time. She knew that it took greater magic than she knew to make portals to different times and worlds, something she thought to be of old magic.

Slowly she roamed through the room, snooping at the various things on the dressers and eventually made her way to the large window doors. The rush of cold air relaxed her some when they opened, stepping out on the little balcony. Alicia noticed that it is night, though she couldn't tell if was the next night, or still the same night she arrived, wondering if she slept a whole day away. It is also snowing which made her smile for the first time since meeting Markus.

She smirked a little recalling his reason for staying To see what mankind had to offer to this world. Just simply shook her head at the thought of what humans have done over the years.

"How long did I sleep for?"

She laughed a little while looking over her old village, memories started to flood her for a moment before she continued.

"As for man kind.... After they started to enslave my kind, I made it a goal to make their lives frustrating. At least hunters anyway. For me, it's just a game... To them.. well, they don't appreciate the things I do."

Shortly after saying that, she fell silent almost lost in thought, watching the snow fall against the darkness.

"I was lef... I chose to stay because I wasn't needed any longer.... Then I left these lands completely after this castle was built. Haven't been back here since. Well, till now that is."


Now that she has said it out loud, it made her wonder why she came back now. For weeks she has been slowly traveling back to this area, a feeling that kept calling her home. Though, she left all the little details out as she kept looking over in the direction of where her village used to be.

"You are one the that built this castle then. I never did see the face of the man, just always assumed he was some petty human claiming more land."

She never left the window, the cold didn't seem to bother her any, in fact it seemed as if she preferred the cold instead of the fire in the room. Part of her wanted to shift and fly out now, however it was her curiosity that kept her here for now. Realizing just how old Markus is made her curious about him in particular.

"You said you have been watching me.... Why? I am no one special, in fact I've been isolated from the world for so long that I shouldn't have caught anyone's attention. How did I catch your attention?"

"How long did I sleep for?"

Markus watched as she moved about the room, shifting slightly he crossed his arms and rested against the door jam, his cool silver gaze appraising her. “Dr. Carson kept you under for the day. It is dusk of the following day since you arrived.” He moved and pulled free a chair that had been tucked under the writing desk and sat down. His legs crossed in a graceful manner his hands rested cupped against his knee. The cool air as she opened the door wafted to him and he inhaled. No matter in which anyone approached the castle the winds here blew towards it. Any scents, any intruders would be detected from all directions. Markus had enlisted the help of a friend and sorcerer to weave the spells and wards that guarded his lands.

"As for mankind.... After they started to enslave my kind, I made it a goal to make their lives frustrating, at least hunters anyway. For me, it's just a game... To them... well, they don't appreciate the things I do."

Markus just made a non committal noise at that. He’d already known about the issue’s she’d caused. Especially as she’d done a few of her past transgressions close to his territory, messenger’s of the survivors had been sent to see if it had been any of his people. Drawing in another deep breath he looked about the room. While they all were fairly decorated this way he still enjoyed seeing the variations from room to room.

"I was lef... I chose to stay because I wasn't needed any longer.... Then I left these lands completely after this castle was built, haven't been back here since. Well, till now that is."

Markus eyes flashed, just briefly, a thought that had flitted through his mind and was filed away for later. Yes the snow elves of the mountains had left in a rush. After the last big eruption of the now quiet volcano they’d chosen to head east seeking something quieter among the plains. Which Markus found amusing if anything.

“Northern province. At the base of the mountains, “his eyes remained neutral but he as her gaze turned toward said direction he knew he’d guessed correctly. The last of the snow elves he’d known had been from that area, which begged the question as to why they would leave her behind. They were viciously loyal to their blood and he wondered if her…”special” talents, may have played a part, there was a sadness that bled from Alicia. And more than once as she continued to speak he had to fight from clearing his nose as the scents of her emotions floated to him.

"You are one that built this castle then. I never did see the face of the man, just always assumed he was some petty human claiming more land. “

Markus just laughed lightly at that. She had made it a point with her voice to let him know it was a statement, and while that statement in itself was true, the “petty” human comment had sparked amusement. It was like humans to take what they wanted wasn’t it? He lifted his chin some as she returned from the balcony to look at him, the questions flowed through her face like water over a stone. There one minute gone the next, accusation, questions unasked, fear, anger, sorrow.
"You said you have been watching me.... Why? I am no one special; in fact I've been isolated from the world for so long that I shouldn't have caught anyone's attention. How did I catch your attention?"

Markus outright ignored the question as he rose to stand, a pleasant smile on his face ‘I watch everything, alas I know you are still tired. I shall have some food and some nice roasted Elk brought up for you. You must be hungry and I know at least for the next day or so the Doctor will wish to check your bandages and the healing of your injury. You are welcome to explore the castle at your leisure, I have given instructions you are not to be hassled or harassed by any of my other guests so far in that you remain here. “

Markus bowed slightly at the waist to her as he spoke again “Bwael isto jallil Larmiril” straightening himself he slipped through the door letting it close behind him the lightest swish of his coattails heard

Markus left her with more questions, leaving only hints as to how much he truly knew. Not only knew by stories he may have heard over the years, but knew as in he was actually there. Of course he was around when the castle was built and when the wars of man made everyone leave in different directions, but her kind were not like the others. They kept to themselves, living in the deepest parts the woods, which is one thing that lead them here. Very few knew the whereabouts of the true location of her people and he spoke of it as if it he knew them personally. Alicia fought hard to remember if she ever saw him around with her time there, however all these things happened at such a young age, it would be difficult to remember a single person. Also, she rarely spent time with the elders and their affairs, that if he was there, he would have been associating with the elders.

She gave a heavy sigh before exploring the room some more, looking over each trinket that decorated the shelves. A few of them sparked a glimpse into the past, a time she allowed herself to forget. Even the paintings on the walls reminded her of a home she once knew, one of the paintings made her stop in her tracks. It was small and the canvas seemed ancient behind the glass frame that protected it. To anyone else it would seem like a typical portrait of a girl and her parents, and it was. Only thing that made it not so typical to her is the simple fact that it was her. The paint had faded, leaving little color to the elves that hid in the picture, but she knew and she can see the vibrant colors that it once held.

The knock on the door startled her and she hesitated to answer it, only to quickly remember Markus said something about food being brought. When the door opened, there was a petite little woman that came in with a tray full of food, refreshing the water. Alicia watched her carefully, noticing the purple tint in the bright red hair, the girl never looked up, respecting the rule Markus had placed. Just as quickly as she came in, the girl had left without a word.

Alicia looked at the food, the smell alone made her stomach growl with anger, though she couldn't remember the last time she's actually had cooked food. The raven and panther form always ate raw, never giving it a second thought about cooking it after a while. In the end, the hunger won and she ate more than originally planned.

Sleeping became more of a task than anything. Tossing and turning from unwanted memories, the picture she found burned into her thoughts reminding her of the time it was made. Other trinkets and a couple tapestries were a constant reminder as well, forcing her to realize that her village was raided when this castle was built. This of course just drove the anger to rise and preventing any sleep.

There was little for her to do, it was far to late to be angry at such actions, after all the village was abandoned and became ruins in the eyes of others. A tiny amount of peace crept in at the thought that it remained here instead of in the hands of humans, however, it didn't appear to be enough knowing that people dove into her personal life. Even if it was unintentional in that time, unknown to anyone that wandered through the rubble.

Another thing that kept pestering her thoughts as she went back outside, looking at the still full moon behind breaking clouds, was when Markus called a name Larmiril. The slipped from his lips like it meant something important. Looking back at the picture, all the memories that just kept pouring in, along with a name that nagged at her.

"Faelyn Larmiril"

The whispered name slipped from her as it all overwhelmed her, she shook her head trying to make the memories disappear again.

Without thinking about it, she shifted into her raven form, leaving the bandage and clothing in a pile. Without knowing where she was going, she just flew hard and fast, gliding through the trees as if they were not there. The only thought she had in that moment was to fly, clearing her thoughts and hopefully regain some senses back. When she did eventually land, shifting into panther form, she found herself on the outskirts of the village she ran from. Seeking out one of her many hiding spots and remained there for the rest of the night, wondering what her next move will be.

Markus had peaked her curiosity enough to where she didn't wish to stray to far, not to mention she felt a need to repay him for saving her life. In that same thought, she truly didn't wish to remain here with all the memories she had put to rest. For the first time glancing down at the healed wound on her leg, taking notice that the black markings never disappeared instead created a strange design that traveled down her thigh. All it did though was add to the silent questions that suddenly piled up on her.

Markus was in his study, penning a note, the soft scritching sound of quill on paper, antiquated writing of course, but having so long been a fan of quill and ink his flowing words were put to paper, a message, to be carried on the winds by messenger to the Laughlin family, whose son had been killed by him when he saved the girl. He knew the family already found out about the death. Hunter’s by blood most of them still possessed the ability’s of magic. Primitive by nature compared to most, it offered humans the enhanced abilities to track and hunt by way of magic. Although Carson hadn’t been able to figure out the nature of the mark on Faelyn’s leg Markus had known it for what it was, a tracking symbol. A magic imbued bullet that if it didn’t kill the target would mark them with a tracking spell that could be followed.

The Laughlin’s would want blood for the death. And they had yet to know that it was he himself who had killed the boy. But the magic that now haunted Faelyn would make her a target and Markus could not allow it. As he finished penning the note and closed his ink well he felt the tingle of the wards. Faelyn had taken flight and left. With a sigh Markus realized he had underestimated her, he’d assumed she would leave, but he figured it would be a while before she did. But it was the other stronger tingle, a warning, humans had entered his territory, about fifteen altogether he sensed and knew immediately that trouble was coming.

Calling for a servant he handed the wax sealed note to him with directions to get it to Amaranda Laughlin, head of the Laughlin family as swiftly as possible. As the servant left Markus swiftly made his way to Faelyn’s room, finding the discarded clothing he sighed and picked it up then bolted for the balcony, with a lunge he stepped up onto the balcony’s railing and gave a powerful shove launching himself off the overlook and into the air, with a guttural snarl he called out to the night air “Alti'uin d'draeval dr'kluth uns'aa pholor sarnor su'aco” he knew as far as she flew he’d never reach her on horseback, or even as fast as he was on foot, She was in danger………..he needed wings…

Fire coursed through his veins as he finished speaking and the magic took hold, as he fell his body shifted, a staggering flash of power and a roar split the night, wings spreading a giant shadow took flight, the mighty beats of the dragon's wings quickly catching air and altitude as he climbed high, with the full moon out it would be near impossible to remain hidden if he passed in front of the moon’s light. He knew where she was heading, back to her destroyed village, and the humans who now trespass his lands were on the march and closer to her then he was. With a snarl he tucked his wings into his body and fell into a dive, using the fall to pick up speed he unfurled them again as he reached the tips of the tree’s, the scales on his belly catching and snapping the tops of a few redwoods as he glided, streaking across the tree line.


There was a hush of movement as the group drew closer, They didn’t know who they were hunting only that they were closing in on the mark bearer. As they cleared the tree’s they were amazed to see the ruins of a city they had not ever known, there was no map they had that showed this place, charred remains of burnt out houses, some just collapsed. With a few hand motions the group of hunter’s spread out to circle the small village

Even out in the stillness of the night Faelyn found no real peace to rest fully, every time she'd drift off some random thing would grab her attention. This last time she drifted it was an unfamiliar scent lingering in the air that snagged her awake, and though the hunters were being as quiet as possible, Faelyn could hear every step they took in the snow, every cold breath that escaped them, the clicking of the guns as they prepare for anything.

It took her by great surprise with how many she heard, let alone having so many way out here in the dead of night. It didn't take long for her to feel trapped as the noises crept closer and circled around her, the human scent is so strong that it made her stomach twist. Faelyn noticed the mark started to throb and glow with a dull green as the humans got closer, this answered at least one of the many questions. She knew now that it was not only poison, but a marking for tracking.

There is no way for her to fight off so many hunters, in reality she didn't know the exact number, just the sounds they made indicated there were many. Slowly she shifted into raven form, knowing that it would make escaping much easier, and it would throw the hunters off a little. The panther tracks would lead them right to her, they would think they were hunting a panther, a raven would be the last thing to expect.

Another sound tore through the air that startled her and the hunters, there was no time to try and figure out the cause of the sound. If anything, it made her escape possible as she flew from her hiding place not realizing that the hunters were right there on top of her. Talons, beak and wings flew right into the face of one hunter and she used that moment to wound them severely.

The hunters were caught by surprise momentarily as this white raven took to the trees, at first they were going to let it go with the thought it was just a bird. Till one of them saw the green glow from it's belly, they grabbed the netting gun and shot it barely making the catch. Another two seconds and she would have been safe. The net wrapped around her, bringing her hard to the ground and the magic of the net made her shift into her true form.

The ravens cry pierced the air just before turning into a human scream. The shifting for some reason had been painful, far more pain that Faelyn could ever remember it being. Within seconds of shifting she saw one of the hunters come towards her, hearing him speak in a language she's never heard before, behind his legs in the tree line she saw Markus just before getting hit with the butt of a rifle, knocking her unconscious.

Markus knew it was too late, he would reach her but they got their first, and he felt the pulse of magic, a Containment spell was being cast, at the speed he was gliding he wouldn’t be able to slow down without the thrum of his wings beat being noticed, he shifted mid air and fell between the trees, trying his best to grab branches to slow his fall he hit the ground and rolled coming to his knees in a crouch just outside the tree line, but the flow of magic from his transformation blew forward, like a ghostly howl of wind that startled the hunters and he saw Faelyn try and fly away, had she not attacked the hunter she just might have gotten away. But the “plink” of the net being fired as the squawk of surprise that turned into a scream and Markus blood boiled. He moved between the shadows of the tree’s drawing closer.

He Heard Faelyn cry again and cleared the tree’s just as he saw one of the hunter’s slam his rifle against her head and the scream fell silent, Markus froze, his eye riveted to the naked female on the ground, focused, he saw her breathing and felt relief, then utter rage as he marched into the clearing, his jacket flowing around him, whipped by an unseen wind as his voice bellowed out, carried on the wind with a baritone that shouldn’t come from a human’s throat “How dare youuuuu, Trepassers, “ The hunter’s turned as the wind around them kicked up then they saw Markus. Their guns raising one male held up his hand as he met markus furious gaze, but before the male could say a word Markus voice boomed again. “a letter has been dispatched to the head of your family, Amaranda will know what you have done here in my lands trespassers.”

At the mention of their patron’s name they froze a whispered “oh shit” from one of the others before the leader spoke up “We are here on Amaranda’s orders, to find our brother’s killer, She…” and he pointed dramatically at Faelyn’s body “Bears the Tracking spell of our clan, meaning she was the one he was hunting before he was killed….by her” again he pointed over dramatically at Faelyn.

Markus was bearly keeping his temper in check, his blood boiling from the exhilaration of his dragon’s form he felt his eyes flare red before returning to normal, the downside however being that the hunter’s also saw it and again he heard the click of rifles being raised. “I am well aware of your brother’s death, it is the reason that I sent a letter to Amaranda with an explanation as to why I..” and he let his voice carry for just a second “am the one who killed him” Markus let that information sink in “He trespassed in MY lands, which you know damn well is forbidden without approval from ME” again he heard an uttered curse and a whispered “Shit, this is Markus, she warned us about him” But the leader of the group didn’t seem to care, Markus smelled the rage, the hurt, what he hadn’t counted on however was the left hook that the male threw that struck Markus like a hammer’s blow and staggered him. For an instant Markus was impressed with the male’s strength, then the rage took hold and a blast of magic so powerful flew from Markus it staggered every male and sent the one who hit him flying.

The man hit the ground and shrieked “KILL HIM” as rifles came up Markus let go a growl so deep, so feral it stopped everyone from moving, the kind of growl one hears in the darkest night that sends your skin crawling because you know you’re dead, before Markus’ eyes flared red and he inhaled. As men swarmed him he exhaled opening his mouth wide as a great belch of fire flew from between his teeth instantly flame broiling the 6 men infront of him and leaving nothing but charred skeleton’s crumpling to the ground. More curses as the flames lit up the night and guns fired. Markus body jerked as the bullets ripped into his human flesh and staggered him, but he whirled on the remaining 9 men who’d formed a firing line using one of the destroyed buildings as cover. Markus uttered a levitation spell as 3 men gave a cry of alarm as they lifted from their hiding place and were promptly blasted by a fireball. The 6 remaining men began to retreat while they still fired at Markus.

His voice no longer human, but so much deeper then it could ever be his words echoed on a roar “NEVER RETURN! OR FACE DEATH!” Markus fell to his knees, breathing hard. He was in pain, in this form he couldn’t be kill easily, but the pain none the less and the poisoned bullets had time to germinate, but as his continued to run it hit the ground scorching it. Markus reared back and let go a bellow of pained rage. His body healing, ejecting the bullets, but unlike the first shot he’d been hit by many, it would take time to burn the poison from his blood. And several tracking mark’s dotted his skin under his torn clothing. Panting as the pain began to subside he looked to Faelyn, still encased in the net, but alive. He got to his feet and moved to her. Damned stupid girl, if only she’d given him time he could have healed the mark and this never would have happened.

And now, he had no way to transport her back without revealing himself to her. Well, if she woke anyway. Markus roared as he again shifted into his Dragon’s body. Lowering his great head he carefully scooped Faelyn up into his jaws cradling her on his tongue and took to the air, heading back towards his castle and safety

Deep within the darkness Faelyn could hear the fighting as if it was a distant dream, it became impossible to tell what was real or a dream. The inhuman growling voice that echoed in her mind felt familiar, the scent of burning flesh and screaming of men also had some familiarity to it. Even being lifted into the air, the sensation of flying with the cold wind wrapping around her felt familiar.

There were a few things that were wrong however, she isn't the one flying. No, this isn't the motion of her wings or the wind ruffling her feathers. The more she comes to, realizing that she is still in the net, in her true form. And..... wetness.... This is what woke her up fully, the feeling of a wet tongue underneath her, upon opening her eyes and focusing there were teeth surrounding her.

Faelyn could smell the overwhelming scent of fire pouring from this mouth, looking at the massive shape of the jaw, the slight hint of scales behind the teeth, it dawned on her that this was a dragons mouth. A creature she has not seen since childhood. That thought didn't come as quickly as the thought of being in its mouth!! This is something a person wouldn't want to wake up to, being so close of getting chomped on and swallowed isn't anyone's idea of fun.

Slowly she began to strip the netting off, being careful to not get it tangled in the teeth of this creature. Once freed from the netting she balled it up tightly, not wanting to toss it to the ground in fear of trapping some other animal. The fear started to subside when she noticed they were heading back towards the castle. Now that she thinks about it, she had to wonder where Markus was, being pretty certain she saw him before getting hit. Then her head started to pound as more questions started to flood in, wondering how on earth Markus managed to keep a dragon hidden all this time.

With a heavy sigh, to tired and unable to focus with the pounding in her head, she put her head to her knees sitting in a dragons mouth, wondering what will happen once back at the castle. It is clear she isn't free to roam in the wild with this mark tracking her.

Markus knew instantly when she was awake. As she began to shift around in his mouth he parted his teeth just enough so that she had Fresh air to breath. Having breathed fire he knew his mouth still contained the sulfer/acid mix that comprised his flame and could be fatal. He felt her shift and toss the net free and couldn’t help but chuckle. Even in his mouth he felt her fear, and trepidation and realizing just what she was riding inside of. As the castle came into view he slowly decended. It was as she settled down his tongue twitched. Stroking over the curves of her ass and he couldn’t help but growl. His taste buds so much stronger in this form, the sweat on her feet, the taste of her skin. He hovered there, opening his mouth wide at her balcony, his wings beating in a slow strong rythem to maintain height he felt her climb out and he rose up in the air, hovering over her balcony. He wished he could apologize but as deep as his voice was in this form and as scared as she was he didn’t want to frighten her anymore.

There was a blinding flash as he shifted. One minute Dragon, the next human, he landed on the balcony railing in front of her in a crouch, fully dressed he crouched there, one hand braced on the railing between his feet, coat opening and flowing behind him, his cold silver eyes watching her, waiting to see if she ran, if she fainted. It wasn’t everyday someone met a dragon, let along survived in ones mouth….for long…..

“so……..how are you feeling?”

The way his tongue moved under her was a bit concerning, it felt as if he was tasting her like she was dinner. Then came that growl and she couldn't tell if it was out of frustration for not being able to eat her, or if it meant something else. Faelyn did know one thing though, that growl was starting to stir up some very unfamiliar feelings, his tongue seemed to only increase them. Never having allowed herself to get close enough to someone that would create such feelings, let alone a dragon of all creatures this world had to offer.

Once they got to the balcony of her room, it stunned her for a moment to watch the dragon turn into Markus, not having much for words at first. Then a light smirk crossed her lips at his question “so……..how are you feeling?” like none of the events of the night happened.

"You slobbered all over me...."

Attempting to make some humor into a traumatizing night. Faelyn turned to go into the room, touching her head where the rifle hit, noticing that there was some blood caked into her hair. Once more cursing that the hunters stained the beautiful whiteness once again. Glanced back over her shoulder, looking over Markus and noticing all the holes in his clothes, then frowned knowing they were because of her.

"I apologize for taking off, I just couldn't sleep here, needed to clear my thoughts. Far too many memories have resurfaced and...."

the rest of what she wanted to say faded as she turned her attention back to the room, walking towards the washing area. With what little magic she does use, she heated up the water in the bowl getting it hot and began to wash the blood off her face and hair.

"My name is Faelyn... you seem to already know my last name. Which, seeing how you are a dragon, it comes as no surprise. You probably knew my parents as well."

She pointed towards the little picture on the shelf without looking towards him, with a sigh she continued with her thoughts while trying to wash the blood out of her hair.

"I.... I owe you my life, I.... I promise I won't leave till I can repay you for all the trouble I have caused."