A Darker Secret (open)

[Sweetp4u]

A Darker Secret (by invitation only)

ooc: if you are interested in joining this thread, feel free to pm me a character description and you idea's on how you can help add to this interesting tale.

Lilianna Chamberlain-
Burgandy Hair
Green eyes
about 5 foot tall

1798 Lincolnshire England

I tried to hide on the stage as my father walked around me, shouting out my assets for all to hear about. How hard of a worker I was and how I would make any man a good maid or whatever they saw fit.
I had agreed to this, to save my younger siblings from starving, I had agreed to be sold into servitude. I kept my eyes downcast along with my face, hiding from those staring at me from the smoke filled room.
A gentleman's club, catered to the rich and spoiled. How my father got in here and how he managed to let the owner agree to this, I had not a notion, but here I was on the make shift stage. My hands were clenched in my dress, trying to hide their dead give away quaking. I was afraid, deathly afraid. Too young to leave home, but left with no choice, I had to do what I had to do.
"How much?" A gentleman asked. My father stated the price and they all laughed. Drunken and riotious they wanted their sport and they wanted me to be that sport.
"For that price we'd best see whats under that rag she is wearing!" Another called out from the crowd.
My father moved towards me to shed my dress when another deep voice spoke up.
"Halt." My father turned from me to pick the man out in the crowd.
"Hey! That's unfair Raven! Let us have our fun!" A stranger spoke up.
His voice was deep, so deep it almost sounded inhuman to my own ears.
"Nay, she comes with me. I have decided and that is final." The man stood in the back of the room. He hated these places but his home was becoming boring all alone up on the hill top. He had arrived to find a pass time in a whore's arms and instead stumbled on this humiliating display. He did not long to see this innocent half woman half child suffer the indignaty of what they all wanted.
"You have the monies to purchase her M'Lord?" My father spoke up.
"Aye." He didn't move from his darkened corner. "Are you questioning my word?"
My father stuttered and stumbled over words to deny such an accusation. No one lived to tell the tale of insulting the Duke of Ravensham.
"N-No M'lord!"
"Good, see she is delivered to my estates promptly and I will have my man servant pay you apon delivery." He glanced at the poor child and then exited the room. A few men grumbled about the 'Raven' coming in and taking away their nightly entertainments, but they were all content to go back to gambling and whoring.
My father took my hand and led me off of the stage, taking me out back and into the wagon.
"I am truely sorry child..." He sighed heavily. "If I had any other means.."
"Do not worry Da', I will be alright." I shivered slightly. It was a lie some what but it was the truth too.. I hoped. I couldn't nay, I wouldn't plead for him to stop this and take me home. Truth was there was nothing even to eat at home. I would not see my family starve or worse because of no coin. If this was all I could do to help them, it was what I would do.
I felt a little scared, being sold to a Duke when I had no skills was a little hard to understand. And just what would he do with me?
The answers came that night..

I was shown into a grand castle by a very quiet butler. He laid down the rules as he took me upstairs instead of down to the servants quarters.
"You cannot have guests. You can not go into the west wing. You are to follow all rules and do what is asked of you and there will be no problems. dinner is promptly at eight. Breakfast is promptly at ten. If you are late you will not eat. My Lord has asked me to show you to the blue room where a bath is awaiting you child. Do not do anything stupid like run off. My Lord has paid good coin for you and he expects you to be here apon his return. is everything understood?"
I nodded my head, too afraid to speak up, and so I was bathed and tucked into bed by one grouchy old butler and soon fast asleep.
I never seen the dark cloaked figure come into my room, nor sit on the edge of my bed. I never did awaken when he stroked my soft cheek and cursed himself a fool! And by dawn I was shipped off to France to attend schools and become a lady.
So unexpected was this journey I wondered at it all. I was never lacking for anything. Private rooms, food, and pocket money was there when ever I needed. And to thank the Duke I did all I could to learn all I could and make him proud of me.
I never seen him in the three years I attended this school, I recieved only one missive asking how I faired over here. He never came to the school though I asked him to come several times. He had an excuse as always for what he was not available to me.
And so three years has passed and I am now nineteen years old.
I paced my room checking to make sure everything was packed and readied for the sail home to England and home to the Duke.
I only hoped he would be excited to see me as I was to see him.
I hadn't seen him that night so long ago, I only recalled his voice. And still sometimes late at night, I swear I could hear him calling my name.
wishful thinking perhaps and perhaps it was something more. I would soon find out once I returned home.

1801 Spring, Lincolnshire England

I rode in the coach I had hired with my pocket money, watching through the treeline as I approached the old Castle Ravensham. I had seen it so long ago, I thought it would look differently but it didnt.
Excitment welled up inside me as I got closer and closer to the main entrance. Dusk had just came and the lights were just lighting up as the butler, Manwell, moved throughout the castle lighting them. Hopefully Raven would be happy to see how I had grown up?

 

[nightray]

Name; Raven William Devlin the 3rd, Duke of Ravensham
Age: looks to be mid twenties but riley is 180
Disc; His 6’6 and 200 ponds his mussels are well defined it's like watching liquid steal. His hair is jet black matching his dark depths eyes that seem to drown you deep in to them. His pail from never setting foot in sunlight.


As the sun sets my eyes open in the dark chamber deep beneath my castile far from the deadly sunlight. As I sit up I sense her the one that I sent away to school. The one I bot but then couldn't bar to take her innocent blood that she possessed. I stand frowning I was hoping she would finned a nice suter to marry her. I never sent her a request to com back but she has com any way. I sigh as I open the secret door to my privet room. I slowly mount the stars up not wanting to face her afraid of what I may do.

I move threw the empty halls moving silently not even the sound of fabric rubbing comes from me as I move to where I sense her. I don’t even look at the tapestries and painting that line the halls of my castle there old but I new the people who made them personally and a few of the paintings I did my self dark sad paintings of my lonely existents.

I step in to the door way of the sitting room looking in at Lilianna as she sits in front of the large fire the flames dancing merrily on the wood casting flickering light over her face as she looks in the firs depths. I watch her unseen for a time taking in the changes the three years have down to her she’s no longer the skinny malnourished girl that I sent away for her own safety but a dutiful young lady. I sense her innocents still in tacked and I feel the pull to go to her and feed. I shake my head violently refusing the urge to drink from her innocent veins.

I clear my throat softly letting her now that I’m there with out growing to close so my hunger doesn’t over ride my mined. I smile warmly as she turns to me saying “I’m Raven William Devlin.” I chuckle selfconchesly “But then you know that already don’t you.” I take a hesitant step closer still not trusting my self to grow to close to her. “Welcome and make your self at home whats mine is yours you have only to ask for it.” I stand still not moving afraid of what I might do. I want to leave to hunt and quench my thirst but she is my guest and I must show my curdisy.

 

[Sweetp4u]

Lily

Sitting poised and ready for the initial meeting, I gasped a little and turned suddenly when he spoke up. I had not heard him coming? I covered my shock with a smile and rose lady like from my chair. Bowing my head ever so slightly I took him in.
Lord, he was tall and broad. His looks dark and his face unlined with age. I was certain when I was told a little about him that he would be older, a father figure type. But looking at him now the only thought that entered my mind was how positively sinful he looked.
"Good evening M'Lord, I trust my arrival has not inconvienced anyone?" He did not speak up, merely stood and watched me as if I might pounce on him. Odd, but surely I had invaded at a bad time.
Flushing I averted my face and twisted my napkin in my hand. All things I had worked hard NOT to do I was doing.
"Forgive me M'Lord.. I did not mean to disturb you.. I.." I flushed again, his eyes never seemed to leave my face! Meeting his gaze with my own sturdy set of eyes, I spoke up for once.
"School was finished M'Lord, I thought it was best to return here and see what wishes you had of me? And perhaps see my mother and father?" He motioned for me to sit and without arguement I did.
Watching him in the door way I felt a silliness come over me and chuckled softly.
"Why not come and sit by the fire with me?" It was his home but I invited him anyways. I was getting a crick in my neck from looking up at him.

 

[nightray]

Raven

I smile more warmly trying to reasher her that she is most welcome to stay. I move forward slowly keeping a tight rain on the hunger that seems to only increase the closer I com to this dutiful young lady. I sit down in my hye backed chair across from her every movement graceful and none are wasted as I seem to flow in to the chair. I sit back in the tall backed chair letting it shield my face in shadows as my eye’s stay on Lily’s.

“You are not intruding my dear.” I look up as I hear Manwell coming up the stairs at the far end of the hall coming up from the kittens. I look back a Lily relaxing a bit knowing that my faithful servant will be bringing the wormed cows blood to help tame the thirst. I lesson to Lily as she talks about her time at the school hearing every thing but my mind is still fockest on Manwells progress. My eyes move to the doors as he walks threw them caring a platter with to gold goblets on it, one with my blood and the other with wine for Lilly.

I nod at manwell thanking him as he hands me my goblet before handing Lilly hers. I take a long sip sighing with relief as my thirst is sated but not as much as normal for as long as this delectable morsel is near it will simmer below the serfes insisting on taking her sweat innocent blood. I sit back relaxing some as I absently swirl the cows blood in my goblet taking a sip now and agene.

I look Lilly in the eyes saying “well since you are hear I’m going to put that schooling to good yews. If I remember correctly you took some biasness classes.” I chuckle softly remembering that I had to pull some strings to get her in since normally girls arrant allowed to take such classes. “I fined that keeping my books strait is quite tedeus and I would rather be doing some thing ells. I would like you to help me with them.” I pose then say as if to explain “I would have Manwell help but he has not head for such things.” I watch her face looking for her reaction wondering why she came back sins I never shone any interest in her coming back.

 

[Sweetp4u]

Lilianna

I studied him a moment a little stunned he would ask me to do something usually saved for men to do.
I smiled brightly, "Oh i would love to M'Lord! Anything you need, just ask it of me.. I owe you so much." I felt I had a purpose now and perhaps he would not turn me out into the streets now?
"And I would like to thank you for being so generous over the years to me with everything I needed or even wanted.." He had done so much for me, I couldn't begin to find a way to repay his kindness.
He hid his face from me int he darkness of the chair, but I still did not mind, I smiled just as brightly as before.
"Thank you." I spoke quietly to the butler Manwell as he delivered a drink to me. I took a sip and almost coughed in reaction.
"Wine?" I had never drank wine before and it caught me a little off guard. I did not wish to offend my host in any way, so I drank again, sipping it carefully.
"Where am I to sleep M'Lord?" I wondered if he would give me back my old rooms or place me elsewhere now?

 

[nightray]

Raven

I wave her thanks away with a small gesger of my hand saying “It was nothing.” I study her face from the shadows of my chair as I drink the last of the cows blood and almost immediately Manwell is next to me handing me another glass whisking the empty one away making almost as little noise as I do. I nod to him aprisheativly thinking it’s a good thing he knows me so well as to anticipate when I’ll need more blood then normal.

I smile as Lilly asks me about her rooms “You may explore the castile and chose any room you wish there are quit a few with lovely views of the gardens.” I take another long drink of the worm cow’s blood keeping the thirst at bay. I stand slowly motioning Lilly to stand as well “I’ll show you arund some but then I most go and see to some business in town that should give you time to find a room to your liking.” I take another sip of blood and then I let her take my arm focusing all of my will in to keeping my fangs retracted and not to take her blood hear and now.

I lead the way out of the sitting room walking along the halls pointing out the different rooms and the library and the den where I keep all of my books and paper work. I then show her where all the different stars are telling her witch ones lead to the different wings of the castle. I point out the stars leading down to the dungeon and basement. I face her locking my eyes on hers exerting my power saying “You will never want to go down thaws stars there’s nothing for you down there stars.” I watch as she blinks nodding slightly.

I smile then and lead her back to the sitting room “If you need any thing just ask Manwell and he will get or do what ever you need.” I bow over her hand kissing it gently. I fight the hunger savagely as it almost over powers me. I straiten “Now if you will excuse me I must go. I will see you tomorrow night if you’re not up when I return.”

With that I turn fluidly on my heal walking down the hall to the main entrains heading for town and the human blood there the need for it coming faster now that theirs an innocent under the roof aging it on more then normal. I move step in to the night sky taking a deep cleansing breath as I look up at the internal stars. I move to the stabiles opening the doors and moving to my favorite hours a black stallion large and not all together tame no one but I can handle him.

I saddle him patting him soothingly as he dances in his stall restlessly wanting to go out and run. I swing up in to the saddle backing him up then kicking his side casing him to run at top speed out of the stable doors heading for the town. I laugh with the freedom of the wind wiping my hair. I pull shadow runner to a trout as we near the town not wanting to alarm any one. I pull him to a stop out side of the place where I bot Lilly three years ago.

I slide off of my hours tying his rains to a post before walking in to the dimly lit building. I move slowly threw the loud men avoiding touching any one as imposable as that would be for a normal human in such crowded surroundings. I move to the manager saying “I need the services of one of your girls for a few hours.” The manager glances at a book briefly saying “Sallies available and she is young and verile the way you like them.” I smile nodding slightly as I hand him the coin a few more then he asks for so he will keep use from being disturbed.

The manager calls the girl over from a man’s lap the man looking angry until he sees Raven standing near the manager. The man quickly finds him self another girl not won’t to anger the lord. Raven smiles at the girl as she comes up to him her eyes wide as she looks him over feeling the animal attraction that all women feel tords him when he wishes them to.

I take her hand and let her lead me up to a privet room where I can feed in peace and where she can rest afterwards. I move up the stars making no noise as I fallow the young girl. Though she is as young as Lillana she is defiantly not innocent so I will not have trouble drinking from her.

I step in to the room after the whore closing and locking it behind me as she moves to the bed sitting and patting a spot next to her smiling broadly. I move over to her sitting next to her looking in to her eyes letting her fall in to the depths of mine. I smile as a glazed look comes over her face. I then tilt her head to one side moving my mouth to her neck letting my fangs extend. I bit gently making shear I don’t bite in to an artery. I suck on her neck feeling the worm life filling my mouth coating my tong and running down my throat like a leaving fire. I grown as I suck hard casing the whore to grown aswhel in pain and plesher. I pull moth full after mouth full of her blood in to my mouth and down my throat to my stomach cawenching the threats taming the best with in.

After several minutes I release her throat with some difficulty my hunger demanding her life but I master it and pull away. I nick one of my fingers casing a drop of blood to well up before the nick heals. I rub my blood over her throat casing it to heal leaving only a brus that would be taken as a love mark. I lay her back on the bed saying “You will only rembear having a wonderful satisfying session with me you will not remember me biting you, Do you understand?” I smile as she nods her eyes falling shot as she goes in to a deep sleep. I move to a chair and sit so as not to make any one suspicious by leaving to soon.

As I sit I think of Lilly and what I’m going to do with her. “I may have to marry her off that might work.” I muddier to my self as I look out side jugging the time a good two hours have past sync I came up that will satisfy every one as to why the girl doesn’t com down emdeutly. I stand looking in a mirror making sheer I don’t have any blood on my lips before opening the door and walking down the stars. I nod to the manager a satisfied smile on my lips as I walk out to my hours.

I step up in to his saddle and I turn him to the road to my castile this time walking him even though he plainly wants to run agene. I master his rains taking my time getting back. I look up and see the moon over head. I smile at the moon enjoying the sight of it as I slowly make my way home.

 

[Sweetp4u]

Lillianna Chamberlain

I followed him thruought the castle, paying attention the best I could to where everything was placed. I heeded his warnings on where not to go and where I could go. I did not wish to anger him, nor have him send me away once again.
I was determined to do something to repay him in some way for all he had done for me. I had eagerly accepted the job as his accountant, figures were easy for me as well as any number of things now thanks to him.
I smiled often, he spoke so softly and tread so lightly along the halls, one would think he was floating. We made our way back to the sitting room and he waited quietly for me to seat myself once more.
Making his excuses he said he had to go and he would return later. In the mean time I could pick out my own room and do with it as I saw fit. Thanking him quietly, He lifted my hand and tenderly places a kiss. I felt a sudden heat lurch in the pit of my stomach and my heart pounded fiercly in my breast. Oh my! my only thoughts as he released my hand and left.
He appeared to be uneffected by the touch of our hands, but I felt so many things at once. I cleared my throat and glanced to Manwell, nodding my head slightly and asked him to help me with my trunks to my room?
He said softly he would get them for me and I should pick a room, just tell him which one I wanted.
"I would like the Opal room please." He nodded his head a strange glistening coming to his eyes as his mouth quirked a little.
A solid pearl and white room, who would really want that room? His thoughts as he moved to the door way to retrieve her trunks.
I wanted the rooms, for one they were adjacent to the master chambers and it was very large and airy. It always had a balcony which over looked the beautiful garden in the back of the house. Those things alone were attractive to me, as were the old oak furnishings in the room.
It would take some cleaning and time, but I was more than willing to do it. Although I had not cleaned in many years, I did recall exactly how to do it. So when Manwell appeared with my trunks I asked him to please bring me a pail of hot water and some cleaning supplies. He scowled a little, not liking the idea of me personally cleaning this room, but he bowed and disappeared down the hallway once more.
Hours later with most of the room clean and my things put away, Manwell brought me a tray with a light meal and a few candles. Giving him my thanks, I sat and ate, lit another candle and dreamt of all the things I could do now that I was home again.
Sighing heavily, I dressed quietly into my maidenly nightgown, and crept into the large four poster bed.
Bending over, I blew out the candle and smiled as I drifted off to sleep for the first time in my new home. I only hoped Raven did not tire of me too soon. His name in my mind brought back some of the fluttering down deep, groaning I rolled over and tried to sleep.

 

[Merelan]

Merelan:


Only a first name. She is in her mid twenties, not fresh, and far from innocent. Left a young widow she has resorted to selling her body for food and shelter. But her heart is still pure and whole. She has been thrown from her last place for sneaking food to older whores, no longer able to earn enough to survive. She travels on foot, having heard of a place in the next large village. Swearing it will only be for a little while longer, till she has saved up enough to buy a small inn of her own.
But along the way she has spent more then she had planned, and is now running out of cash, and time. For though she is beautiful, and her body lush and ripe. A whore only has a few profitable years.
The night is chilly and she pulls the wool cloak about her, a coach dashes by, spraying up mud and water. It seeps into her clothing, making her colder. Her feet are freezing and she must continue on. The wind picks up and drags at her hair and cloak, like sharp fingers. Ahead of her looms set high on a hill looms a castle. Dares she try to beg for a corner to hide from this wind? Or directions? Hesitating as she stands, the wind whips harder, almost tearing the cloak from her grip.
There is nothing to lose.
Merelan finds her way up the hill, her legs shaking more as the weariness sets in. Her strength ebbing, if they turn her away, she will lay against the wall. At least there the wind will not reach her.
Never bold enough to knock at the front, she finds her way to the back. Her hand frozen as she reaches out and knocks at a small door, half hidden in ivy.

 

[Merelan]

Merelan:

The winds howl, and no one answers. The rain starts again, and soon I am soaked through.
"Hell and double hell." And push at the door. It swings. Unlocked?
"Hello?" Timidly creeping in. It is dark, but out of the wind. Perhaps they will not mind if I just stayed here in the hallway. No one would probably ever even know. Shutting the door behind, closing my eyes, I sink to the floor. Soaked, tired, hungry and exhausted. The thin dress clings to me, feeling like an icy sheet.
"Just sleep Merelan. It will be better here, then out in that wind."
But sleep does not come, I can't stop shivering. The cold now turning the bones to ice. Walking back and forth helps, but I am so tired, so tired. My eyes closing as I walk. Following the passage down there are doors. One after another are locked. But it is warmer here.
Another turn and I step into the kitchen. Warily I look arund, but there is no one there. The fire in the cook place banked for the night. Instantly I am stripping, my clothes laid over a chair as I step toward the heat. Oh thank you. Silently whispered to the house. Sinking to the table I sit naked, then see a cloak. It takes all my strength, but I get up and pull it around me, then back I go. My head instantly sinking into my arms. My eyes shut, and I sleep. Warm at last.
Through my slumber dreams flit. Strange and surreal they play, combine and confuse me. Starnge beings, pale women. A sense of agelessness, through all a dark figure in the background, as if watching. Always watching, and a sense of waiting, forever.

 

[Sweetp4u]

Lilianna Chamberlain

I heard some rustling noises from down below, my mind figured it was either Manwell or Raven returning to the castle. But when I heard no booted steps coming up the stairs, I moved out of the rooms I had been cleaning and to the stair case.
"hello?" I spoke softly, glancing around the darkened hallways. No one responded, but I heard another sound. It sounded like someone was in the kitchen?
Sighing, I figured Manwell might need help with something, I walked down the stairs and through the dining room. Locating the right door to the kitchen took me a few minutes but I did finally make it.
Pushing open the door, I seen the kitchen was dark inside and deathly cold as well. Shivering I squinted to see inside the kitchen.
"Hello?" Now who was in there in the dark? Reaching up on one of the china hutch's i picked up the candlebra that was lit and moved inside. I paused a moment, seeing for the first time a woman/girl hunched over and sleeping at the table. I walked over to her and carefully tapped her shoulder, her skin was very cool to the touch, I wondered if she was ill?
Who was she and where did she come from? I set the candles down and moved over to stoke the fire. Once I had it roaring I turned back to the girl...


ooc: ray is still not back yet. he moved to a new state and has to get things back up and running, so I guess we continue the story until he returns.

 

[Merelan]

Merelan

My dreams clear and I hear movement. Instantly I am awake, but stay still, feigning sleep. They have caught me.
But there is no outcry.
Instead, someone works at the fire, and it is roaring up the chimney. Slowly I open my eyes, then shut them again.

It is the Lady of the house. I am lucky. Perhaps she will let me leave quietly. She sets the candles closer, and a drop of hot wax drips off and lands on my hand. I wince. Though I have felt worse in my time.
Lifting my head our eyes meet. God please, don't scream.
She is young, and so beautiful, like an angel. Her eyes show concern.
Swallowing hard I try to stand, but the cloak is tangles around my legs. Her hand reaches out to steady me, but I pull back. She should not touch one as I.

"I was cold, and the door was ajar." Trying to untangle the cloak, and flashing my nakedness in the process. Wrapping it tighter about me.

 

[Sweetp4u]

Lilianna

I turned back and met the wide eyed stare of the stranger. The poor woman looked half starved and very frightened. She figgetted alot and tried to adjust the cloak, I could clearly see she wasn't wearing anything. I didn't say a word or even let on of my shock of her being here.
Smiling warmly I nodded my head, "It's alright. Calm yourself.." I spoke softly as well. Manwell was the only servant that I knew of in this house, so I had no fear of waking anyone.
"Would you like something to eat? Miss..??" I didn't really give her time to answer, she looked hungry so to the cuppboards I went. There wasn't really alot in them, curious for certain. Frowning I moved to the pantry and found the newly purchased goods.
"There we are.." I reached down and grabbed some wrapped loaves of bread and a wheel of cheese. This would do nicely..
Turning back to her I placed them on the table and grabbed a knife from the block. Cutting off rather large pieces I handed them to her and sat down on the other side of the table.
"Are you running from someone?" She did look scared and haggard as well. Was she one of those 'street walkers'? I was curious to find out, and perhaps convince Raven to hire her if she had no where else to go. Smiling, I knew that was what I would do, take a chance and ask him.

 

[Merelan]

"It's alright. Calm yourself.." She had a soothing voice, like my little sister had. Her eyes so inoccent. Was she? Could she be?
"Would you like something to eat? Miss..??" I reached for my dress and fanned it out, wishing it was dryer. But she ignored me and rummaged through the cupboards.
"There we are.." She turned, so graceful, so young. Renny. My baby sister. Helpful and open, honest to the core. Unsuspecting, as this young lady was. And Lady was what she was. "This would do nicely.." Willing myself not to grab at the food she set before me. Fastening the cloak on better. Turning and finding plates, and setting water on for tea. I should be the one serving her, not her I.
She had cut it up and the tea was brewing when we sat. For she sat opposite me. I nibbled a small piece of the cheese, sharp and almost painful to eat.
"Are you running from someone?" She blurted it out. Maybe now realizing I could be a thief come to hurt her.

"No." Swallowing the cheese. Then getting up and pouring tea for her, and myself. Wiping out the dishes and the table, whomever she had as a cook was not the cleanest.
"There isn't anyone after me. No one. I was moving to a new town, for employment, but the storm caught me off guard, and the wind blew me here. I knocked at your servants door, but there was no answer, it was ajar." Sitting back down and sipping the hot tea, it felt so good. Expensive tea. Then saw her shiver.
"Drink it yourself Milady. It is a cold night tonight." Waiting till she did, her long fingers wrapping around the cup. Perfect nails, pretty hands.
"Please Milady, I can pay for the lodging. I don't mean to trespass. But I was so cold and tired. I have never been in trouble with the law before. And this cloak was laying there, and my clothes wet. I didn't think anyone would mind. please forgive me, I disturbed yor rest."

 

[Sweetp4u]

Lillianna

I felt for her, She was so frightened of what could possibly happen to her. I didn't say anything at first, just mulled over thoughts in my head.
A slow knowing smile broke over my face as I seen how quickly she tidied the kitchen up. "It is kind of you ro address me as a lady, but I am afraid brithright didn't deem that to be true and education just glazed over this poor farm girl." I turned and glanced at her, she wasn't as innocent as I was. She had a knowing look around her eyes.
She had seen more than I had, but only because of Raven's money. He was lonely here, I felt it. He had only Manwell to serve him, and this place was a mess. There was only so much I could do here on my own. Would he mind? I felt a tingling thought nag my mind but knew that if I only asked to employ her, he would grant it.
He did say whatever I wanted to redo I could, well this kitchen needed something and I needed a cook. I had to think about it more.
"My name is Lillianna, most all me Lily.. What's your name?" I felt childish and stupid but she was the first person I had seen since I got here who looked normal!
'You did not disturb my rest, I was cleaning my new rooms. And it is cold outside tonight, the cloak isn't going to suffer for being wrapped around you. Please sit and relax. You seek employment right? Can you handle a kitchen all by yourself? Lord Raven only has Manwell and I think he would sour milk looking at it.." I giggled a little at the thought, but she had yet to see this grisley looking older man. He was a sour faced quiet servant, tall, not unhandsome but definately etherial in a sense.

 

[Merelan]

"It is kind of you to address me as a lady, but I am afraid brithright didn't deem that to be true and education just glazed over this poor farm girl." I met her eyes with shock. She was just saying that. Never a farm girl, not this one. Her eyes met mine again, firm and cool.

In silence we each sipped our tea. This was nice, homey, and friendly. But I knew my place. The wind picked up again outside. As soon as I finished this, I would have to leave. Her Father, or husband would never allow one such as me in the house. Though often they were the ones that came to mine.

'You did not disturb my rest, I was cleaning my new rooms. And it is cold outside tonight, the cloak isn't going to suffer for being wrapped around you. Please sit and relax. You seek employment right? Can you handle a kitchen all by yourself? Lord Raven only has Manwell and I think he would sour milk looking at it.." Then she giggled.

No, I couldn't. They would easily find out what I was, and then drum me from the place, if I was lucky, without a beating. Yet, it was nice here, and she reminded me so of my lost sister.

"You should ask your Lord if he would allow it. I may not be employable in such a place. You are to trusting MiLady, Lillianna. I could be anyone, such as a look out for an easy place to rob. He should not leave you alone here, it isn't safe in the world these days. Things ride the winds, especially on nights such as this." I had stood and was fussing with the fire, feeling her eyes on me. Pouring her some more tea and pulling her slipped robe back up over her shoulders.

"You should not be sitting here with me. And that is what makes me believe you were not born here. A born Lady would never allow it, and would not be cleaning her room." Standing next to her.
"You were restless tonight weren't you? You feel it in the air? That waiting hunger? It is why I will stay tonight, till your Master returns. Trust me Lillianna, Lily, he will not want me here. But I thank you just the same. Now come." Holding out my hand to her. "It is too chilly here for you. Show me to your room and I will straighten it, and sleep outside the door to protect you. Gathering up my things, they were dry now.

"If I might change back into these, and wear this tonight, I will be fine. Plase, you have shown me much kindness, it has been long since I felt that."

 

[Sweetp4u]

Lillianna

I let her fuss and what not, I found it endearingly sweet. She did care about others more so than herself.
"Protect me? From what?" I was curious more so than frightened. Manwell was here and I knew somewhere near by was Raven as well. I did not know how I knew, but I did.
"Please stay until tomorrow evening and I will indeed as my lord if I can hire you." I smiled warmly at her, standing up from the chair and letting her hussle me along like a mother hen.
Now how did we switch roles I wondered? I turned my back so that she may dress in private, my eyes confused somewhat over the things she said. What rides on the winds this night?
'I can not let you sleep on the floor, it is too cold and you could catch your death! Nope, unheard of!" I wasn't budging on that one. I would find Manwell and see about her a bed. She wasn't any higher of a station than I was, and if I was welcomed here then she should be as well, if only for a single night.
I had a strong sense of justice and what was wrong and what was right. and a bad habit of bringing home 'strays'. The head mistress at school constantly had to find homes for the kittens and dogs I had found and brought back with me.
This woman wasn't really a stray or a pet, but she was alone and it was cold outside, and she did say dangerous as well. So my mind was settled, now to convince her.
Sighing heavily, I waited until she dressed and turned slightly to look at her, "My rooms are up this way.." I moved slowly through the darkened castle, making my way to the stairs, candle in hand.
I walked up the large curved stairway and down the hall. It wasn't very far to my rooms, just a few doors down. This area felt so empty at times, I wondered if Raven ever had a family to fill it? The pictures indicated he had, but some how it still didn't change the emptiness of it.
"Here." I moved to open the double doors and push them open, walking inside, it was a little bit of a mess still but not much. I had succeeded in doing alot to it, including mending the curtains flowing over the balcony window and a clean bed and spread on it. The floor had been swept, some what but it was good enough for tonight. The old amoir stood open, trying to air out the staleness of it. The smaller room for my would be maid was clean, I used it to store more of my things for now.
"Well this is it.. It is a beautiful room, just a little.... dusty." I smiled a little and let her look around, trying my hardest not to sneeze.
I heard a throat clear at the door and turned, "Oh! Manwell! There you are.." He gave me a stern look and the woman one as well.
"Yes M'lady?" he asked in a solemn voice.
"Could I have a bath please? And this is an old friend.. she's looking for employment, I asked her to stay until Raven returns.."
He said nothing, merely cocked a brow and bowed his head once.
"As you wish M'lady." He moved off through the hallway as I turned to her.
"whew... " she looked at me too, "It was just a tiny fib!" I gave a lopside smile and went back to picking up some of the mess I made. "Besides, Manwell is old and stuffy, well not old.. but definately stuffy.. If Raven wishes me to marry or anything of that sort, he has to have a chaperone for me yes?" I tossed a dirty rag into one of the buckets and a pair of gloves as well.

 

[Merelan]

I dressed quickly, though the heat of the fire felt good, I let her move me along.
We moved through the castle, though she kept hesitating at the door, or a turn. Was new hear? or misleading me? No, she was true to her word. Soon we entered a magnificent chamber. Beautiful. Pretty and feminine, yet, old and dusty. Her Master wasn't very observant, and I wasn't sure I would like this Manwell she had mentioned.
Without a noise a man appeared. Thin and pale, emaciated, and old.

"Oh! Manwell! There you are.." The look he flashed me was obvious. I pulled my dress closer to me. he was angry at her fpr wandering. Why? If she was Lady here.
"Yes M'lady?" he asked in a solemn voice.
"Could I have a bath please? And this is an old friend.. she's looking for employment, I asked her to stay until Raven returns.."
His eyes flashed at me, up and down. I knew. I knew he knew. I didn't remember him at our place, and one would. So it wasn't that. But he knew. Blushing I tried to hide my shame with fussing at her robe, it had worked loose again.
"As you wish M'lady." He moved off through the hallway as she gas[ed and almost giggled at me., "It was just a tiny fib!" She had a pretty smile, and a mischievious look to her. We stood, folding clothes and such. pretty things. Soft and silky to the touch.
"Besides, Manwell is old and stuffy, well not old.. but definately stuffy.. If Raven wishes me to marry or anything of that sort, he has to have a chaperone for me yes?" There were so many things I wanted to ask.
Who was this Raven to her? her brother? not married, so it wasn't her Lord, yet. I had no doubt that was what he wanted. If she was not a lady born, then why was she here. And where was he, how could he leave her alone on such a night? How could I tell her he would take one look at me and throw me out.
I wouldn't. I would leave in the early morning. Watch over her tonight, and slip out the back door, the way I had come. Easier for all. But I wasn't leaving her this night. Nothing was here to protect her.

Yet. As we had walked the halls, I had felt eyes, and watching. The whole house seemed dead, and empty. Yet. Something was there. Or someone. Hmmph. That could be it. This Raven could be one of those kind. I had met them too. The one's who liked to watch. Probably as old as Manwell, and unable to do anything else. Did that mean he had a plan?

I was staying this night. To make sure she was safe.

 

[nightray]

Raven

I enjoy my ride back to the castile letting the night calm me. I lesson to the music of the storm sound of the rain hitting the ground and the wind howling around me the same sounds that many fined eary and even frightening okcionely you can hear the by the mournful sound of a wolf holing at the moon hidden by the royaling clouds above. The wind wiping at my clothes and my houses main.

As I com closer to my home I sense the presons of an intruder I frown wondering why Manwell has not seen the person gone or dead depending on there motive. I sniff the air but the rain as washed any telltale scents away. I kick my hours in to a trot my mind trying to fined where intruder is at. I shake my head as I sense that Lilly is with her.

I ride my hours in to the stables moving quickly but not in to much of a rush sensing that Lillianna is in no danger. I dry and brush Shadow runner down theraly before putting him in to his stall to sleep the rest of the night away. I then walk with long silent strides to the side doors of my home my feat leaving the barest hint of a mark even in the wet mud as water pores over me. I can smell the intruder just in side the door I also see the puddle of water that she left slowly growing with the water coming from me. I fallow her sent to the kitchen where Lilly’s sent meats hers. I take a deep breath searching for any sine of hostiady or disseat, finding non I relaxes slightly but a frown is still on my lips.

“She was told that there would be no visitors hear with out my permion.” I muter to my self as I walk threw the empty halls fallowing the feel and sent of the two women.

I move to Lilly’s door and with out knocking I open it my eyes moving over Lilly briefly before locking on the new girl. My eyes move up and down her body noting every thing about her noting how thin and malnourished she looks, she has obviously been on the road for some time now. My nostrils flare slightly as I take her sent in noting that she is by no means innocent, she has the smell of the girl that I just came from but she holds her self differently.

My eyes move back to Lilly they seem to glint with anger. “I thought Manwell told you that there was to be no visitors hear.” I say my voice low not menacing but displacer is obvious in the tone. My eyes stay on Lilly though I’m aware of the new once every movement every breath and hart beat.

 

[Sweetp4u]

Lillianna

"Raven!?" I gasped in shock as I turned around and met his gaze.
He hadn't even knocked to annouce his arrival! Blushing slightly for yelling and for my reaction I hurried and fumbled for the right words.
"Well.. your grace... I ah... She isn't a visitor really. She seeks employment, well not here.. but she was. And I thought since I need a ladies maid.. that.." Oh god he was staring at me!? I felt even more heated than before.. "That.. it would be alright she wait here and aid me while we awaited your return.. I .." God I was making a total fool of myself!
I moved over to him, my hand coming down to rest on his hand on the door knob, "Please?" I asked softly, beseachingly. "She needs a job, there is only Manwell here.. If she doesn't work out, you can dismiss her right?" I crossed my fingers, praying that dismissal would never happen.
It would be lonely here with no women to talk to and Raven working.. Manwell wasn't a good companion.. I some how I thought he was reading my mind right now! His look changed some what as he stared down at me, I smiled softly, still pleading with my eyes.

 

[nightray]

Raven

I look down in to Lilly’s eyes mine softening slightly as she talks asking me to let this intruder stay and be her maid. I feel the warmth of her hand on my own and the feel of her blood pumping in her veins is intoxicating. I pull my hand back a trifle quickly as my eyes move to the raged looking girl once agene.

“What is your name girl?” I ask as I move past Lilly with out touching her agene the thirst with in already demanding her blood.

I move around the new one slowly taking her in fully as I wait for her answer. I move with a cats gras and with no sound at all. I take in every detail with out missing a thing wondering if she could be trusted as Lilly’s maid and to keep my secrets but then even if she wasn’t now I could make her trust worthy.

 

[Merelan]

We are laughing and straightening when the door bursts open. In walks the Lord of the Manor.
It could be no other. For he stands tall and arrogant. Proud, and angry. His eyes wash over me and he sees to my soul, knows me, as I knew he would.
She pleads for my emplyoment. This isn't right.
Then he stalks around me, again letting his eyes drift over me.

'Sir, do not be upset at the Lady Lily. It is all my doing. I am a wanderer, you know the type," meeting his eyes, but only briefly, for they are cold and angry. I stammered on.
"I let myself in the back door, it was ajar. It was cold and I was wet. I didn't steal anything, or touch anything, well, except this cloak." Pointing over to it. "But I fell asleep on the table, and she as kind enough to let me stay. It was my fault sir. Do not be harsh with her, for she was alone, and frightened. I can leave now, and no one will be hurt. Or you can send for the authorities and I shall take my beating without a whimper." He stood still and silent, as if a statue.

 

[Sweetp4u]

LIlianna

I gasped loudly, my hand covering my mouth some what as my eyes widened.
"Beating!?" I stammered, my eyes searching hers then Raven's.
"Absolutely will NOT tollerate that treatment of any lady!" I stomped my foot and glared, hands moving to my hips.
"Beating M'Lord?" I was not happy with that idea at all! I don't care if she was homeless! Beating for nothing but wanting to be warmed. The thought riled my temper, and the more I thought about it the more mad I became.
Raven pulled away from me, like i have some kind of disease! And now beatings? Ok so I was acting childish, but unless I threw something, there was no venting place for my temper.
I walked over and sat down on the bed, closing my eyes a moment, I waited for the final say so from Raven.

 

[nightray]

Raven

I look at Lilly as she stomps her foot childishly and walks to the bed sitting on it, anger plane on her face at the thought of this girl being betton. An involuntary smile touches my lips briefly at her little display. I then walk back to the door turning to the two girls my face blank once agene.

“Ok Lilly you may have you way she will be your maid.” I pos for a couple seconds my eyes moving bake to Merelan briefly. “She is your responsibility the same rolls apply to her as to you.” I look back at Lilly. “You will pay her wages out of your allowance that I shall give you once a mouth and if she gets in to trouble you will be the one giving the punishment. Do you understand?” I wave to the small room adjoining Lilly’s “She may yous those mades chambers.”

I look out the widows seeing the sky beginning to lighten slightly barley notiable by human eyes but mine pick it up easily. “I must retire now; we’ll talk further about this tonight.”

With out another ward I tern on my heal and walk down the hall silently. I move quickly down past the sellers in to the old dungeon. Manwell stands at the entrance to my slipping chamber a disapproving look on his face. I smile reasheringly “Don’t threat my old and most trusted friend the new one will work out fine I was debating on weather I should hire a made of Lilly any way, This girl just made the job easer but do keep an eye on her for now just in case.” Manwell nods solemnly as I step in to the chamber the think stone door closing behind me easily on cleverly made hinges. I move to the bed laying down letting the black dreamless sleep role over me.

 

[Sweetp4u]

Lillianna

I smiled brightly, "Yes M'Lord. I understand completely.. Thank you!" I kissed his cheek and turned back to my new guest.
"You have to tell me your name before I can hire you." I smiled gently, hoping she would say yes!
I turned back to thank Raven but he was gone.. Hmm well alright. Just us then. My mind was curious as to how he vanished so quickly, but forgotten as I turned back to the woman.

 

[Merelan]

Merelan:

Her fury surprised me, and I stepped back. I hadn't meant to cause trouble, honest. This was too much.
But before I could speak, his eyes swept over me, and I was silenced.
Standing silent, and trembling as he told her I was her responsibility. When he explained that if I caused trouble, she would take the punishment, his eyes met mine.
They were cold and stone, ageless, so deep black I could not see the pupil. My heart seemed to stop beating, till he released me from his gaze. Then with a sweep of his cape, he was gone.
"You have to tell me your name before I can hire you." She seemed all smiles and happy. Like a kitten who had gotten her plaything. Was that what I was?
Or her?
Who was he, and why had he control like this over her?
He wasn't her Father. Perhaps a guardian? But why didn't they know each other better?

"My name?" Swallowing hard. "Merelan, MiLady. But, I cannot stay." Yet, I didn't want to leave her in his control. What would his fury be like if it was ever unleashed on her?

"But for what is left of the night, I shall, we will discuss it tomorrow, please. Your Uncle does not seem to pleased with my presence, it seems he likes his privacy."