*'Sanctuary' for Us *

[slippedhalo]

Kitchen

Big Guy stared at the recipe one more time before getting to work. Today's planned dinner menu had been scrapped and he now had to learn how to make a perfect pasulj, a thick Serbian soup, accompanied by freshly baked crusty rolls, his best peppered steak and spiced potatoes...when the appetizer request was shrimp cocktail and to leave plenty of brie, crackers and the best red wines in the house flowing...he knew for sure Nokola Tesla was coming for dinner. He felt slightly put off that none of his own input would be needed for the meal preparation this evening. He preferred free reign in the kitchen and usually the household was more than pleased with his own choices and creations. But, alas, what the boss wanted the boss would always get and it seemed she was trying to be on Tesla's good side this evening.

When sweet cheese palachinkes were the dessert request for the evening Biggie's patience had been tested to the limit. His voice boomed into the intercom, "The last time I tried that it was a horrible disaster. Let me suggest I order out for some chocolate pastries from Milano's as a back-up just in case the palachinkes turn out bad...besides, it's better to have too many desserts than not enough, right?"

Helen acquiesced and chuckled, "Alright, we'll do that your way. I'm counting on you. You know I'm not the expert on cooking these things as well as you..."

"...No, just the expert on how they should taste." he said with a grunt.

"I'm sorry if today's been hard on you. I appreciate the help, really I do." aplogized Helen.

Biggie waved it off and grunted again, "No problem. I like a challenge...sometimes."

"I owe you."

"Big time." He murmured.

"Big time." She agreed.

"Huuuge!" he had to add.

She faked an annoyed tone, "Alright, don't push it, now."

"Hehe, yeah, carried away. Back to work."

"Thanks, friend."

 

[Asa]

Kate heard the door as well. Thank God... she muttered standing from the desk and heading to the main foyer.

I got it she called just in case. Tossing open the door she paused seeing Tesla. The grumble already lodged in her throat awaiting the ever expected ever hated formal address of Katherine.

Hello Tesla... Come on in...

((Will just post his intro and guest))

Katherine... wonderful to see you again. I brought you a present from London...

With that Tesla walked in revealing Declan.

Hello Kate.

Kate smiled... thanks Tesla... Magnus is in the lab... not letting anyone in though.

Declan what can you tell me about sick calisar hounds... We've got three of them.

With that Kate and Declan vanish till dinner time.

 

[slippedhalo]

Helen had compared the data from her serum for Nikola Tesla with the serum she'd now created for Ashley, tailored to her specific body and blood type. She was explaining the details to Ashley and preparing her arm for an injection just as she heard the lock on the door unlock itself, the metal mechanism pulling aside on it's own...well, with a little help from her friend and his ability to manipulate magnetic forces as well as electricity. She looked over her shoulder with a small ironic half smile as she heard the familiar voice say, "Really, locking out the very person you called upon for help. Helen, sometimes I do wonder who taught you your ettiquette..."

He took a step forward and entered the lab. His designer suit glimmered in the light, his appearance impeccable, his hair only styled to look slightly discheveled but added to his boyish, charm as he grinned wide, grey-blue eyes taking in the sight of her from top, to bottom, back to top again, and over to wink letcherously at Ashley before coming to Helen's side and adding,""...but then I remember how lovely you are and I forgive your lack of manners." He kissed her cheek and wrapped a hand around her waist as he looked over the data she'd been showing her daughter.

"Welcome, Nikola. My apologies, but I'd like to make sure Ashley has tried the treatment before we relax and have supper."
Helen said nothing in protest to the unwelcome touch of his hand snaking around her but only silently and firmly removed his hand from it's comfy spot on her hip and swatted at his fingers when they moved even slightly away from his side for a second attempt, as she explained the formula, causing him to softly chuckle and a small confused look from Ashley at the subtly missed exchange.

 

[Asa]

Isis

Isis had checked with Big Guy about the room she once occupied here only to find out that beyond cleaning Helen had left very strict orders that it remain just as she left it. Smiling slightly she found her way to "her room" up near one of the turrets. Walking in she glanced around. Seeing James Jacket hanging on the back of the desk chair she smiled softly and stood there in the doorway for what felt like an eternity. Her eyes never leaving the desk nor the jacket.

Finally she was able to tear her focus and mind from the past as she walked into her room closing the door. She sat down on the bed looking around she could not believe that Helen had done this. Moving to the closet and looked through all she had there. Somewhat formal dinner with some of her old friends... well somewhat formal due to one of the guests. She found a raven black dress... Gods she had not dressed in such things in way too many years... it was more appropriate in the wildlands for pants and hides and things like that.

She walked out into the open air portion of the turrent and glanced out over the city lost in memories... at least till everyone was summoned to Dinner.

 

[YoungLisa]

Roger de Blythe

1485

The battle had raged most of the day and Roger de Blythe was brought the news he had waited for. Richard III was dead, and with him the last hope of the Yorkist family that they would rule England. It had been a long and bloody civil war and de Blythe hoped he would benefit from his loyalty to the Lancastrians and he expected the trimmings that came with power.

Riding south he came across a small fortress where it was said Richard’s illegitimate daughter Alice lived under the protection of his personal guard. Seeing the smoke rising from the ruins he thought everyone was dead. Dismounting his horse he entered the building and saw nothing but the dead bodies of the guards assigned to protect Alice. Turning to leave he heard a noise in the kitchens and found the eighteen year old Alice alone and frightened.

Grabbing the young girl he recognised her from the descriptions circulating regarding her beauty and youthfulness. Believing her to be unprotected and vulnerable de Blyth did what any soldier of his time would do to his enemy’s daughter. He raped her without any concern for her desires or comfort.
After he had satisfied his lust de Blythe drew his sword and was about to kill Alice when she suddenly overpowered him. Pushing him to the ground she proceeded to puncture his jugular veins with her fang like canine teeth and drained his body of most of its blood.

Believing she was going to leave him to die de Blythe begged for mercy and Alice began to chuckle. “You want mercy? What mercy did you show me when you took my innocence from me? No … I let you take me because I wanted to know how far you would go. Now I will show you mercy!” Alice cut her own wrist and forced some of the blood into de Blythe’s open neck. “Now you will be as I am, immortal, always looking for human blood to keep you alive. When you awake you will be like me, un dead. A VAMPIRE! Believe me immortality is no blessing. IT’S A CURSE!”
de Blythe sank into a deep sleep and on waking he found himself alone. Within days he had learned to hunt for human blood and thus began an existence that would last for over five hundred years.

Always alone de Blythe longed for someone to love but could never be with a woman long enough before his lust for blood led him to kill her. And so it was in 1533 he was hiding in the crypt of the Tower of London Church, St Peter ad Vincula after his blood lust had come to attention of Thomas Cromwell’s men. There he was disturbed by a young woman who was once sexually involved with Javier Banderas executed on trumped up charges that were now being dismissed. Both on the run they satisfied each other’s sexual needs but de Blythe knew it could not continue unless he made his lover immortal. One night after feeding upon her he gave her the venom in his body since his encounter with Alice and a new vampire was born.
As the vampire attacks continued a scape goat was needed and to save his own neck de Blythe betrayed Melaven to the authorities and struck the final blow himself. As her soma began to crumble into dust Melaven made two declarations. A curse on the Tudor dynasty and a vow that one day, some way, somehow she would avenge her death on de Blythe and subject him to the “true death”.

Centuries later Roger de Blythe now working as a scientist in cancer research at St George’s Hospital London stared at the newspaper with Ashley’s photograph on it. Something deep inside told him that somehow his 16th century lover was back in another form. He also knew that one of them would have to truly die. And it wasn’t going to be him.

 

[YoungLisa]

Ashley /Melaven

Ashley watched with her mother as she worked on the blood samples and described the way she hoped she could quell the worst excesses of her vampire human blood lust. At first she did not welcome the intrusion of Nikola but gradually she began to warm to him. Yet she was confused by the obvious chemistry that existed between him and her mother.

Then something else began to arise within her, was it lust? Or jealousy? She had no idea. She did know she wanted Nikola in her bed and nothing, not even her mother would stop her.

 

[Asa]

Kate

Kate went back to pouring over the research while Declan had the equipment immobilize one of the young as he did some blood work research on it and then on the mother...

Kate I need to see the toxin break down from the one you said had been bitten...


About that its one of the bosses friends so I will ask her you know how she is wanting to help her friends all on her own tolerating help only when she is there too...

Kate called Helen on the intercom. Magnus... if you would trust someone else researching the info we could use the toxin breakdown file out of the lab system... Declan is checking the medical side of our strange Calisar hounds down here in the holding tanks area.

 

[slippedhalo]

Kate's voice rang through on the intercom system to the lab Helen had been working from. "Magnus... if you would trust someone else researching the info we could use the toxin breakdown file out of the lab system... Declan is checking the medical side of our strange Calisar hounds down here in the holding tanks area."

Helen moved to the intercom area and replied to Kate's voice, "Declan's here? Oh, excellent, yes, I wouldn't mind his help at all!" she said pleasantly, elbowing Tesla back to a more decent distance from her as he sidled up so closely behind her she could feel his breath on her neck.

Again, he chuckled and she stared daggers his way as she asked, "Anything else, you need. Kate? We'll be ready for dinner within a half hour or so, you and Declan are more than welcome to join." Magnus took Ashley's extended arm and jabbed her gently with the serum, watching her face and feeling her pulse to check her status as she watched for any possible unanticipated side-effects.

To Ashley, see said, "The first few days it may make you a little more tired than usual but it should lessen your blood lust to a reasonable level making you not need to feed more than once every ten days or so and you'll learn to tolerate non-human blood better as well. We've set Nikola up on a regime of nutrient supplements and animal plasma. This serum will work wonders for you, you'll see. It should also make it a little easier to keep your temper and...emotional side to a lower level, more human-standard. Vampires in their pure form can be very..." She eyed Nikola warily, "...testy...otherwise."

 

[Asa]

Kate

Well to hear Tesla talk he is a gift for me from Tesla from his latest trip to London... Kate laughed. He says dinner sounds great so I will help him get into the file about our Guest.

Kate muttered something about this being Henry's area not hers but finally she found it. Letting him read over the file keeping the identity of of Isis a secret until Magnus wanted anyone to know.

Declan poured over the information stealing glances of Kate as she walked around laughing as she would snap back at the hounds when they would try to scare her. Then something grabbed his attention... all he mumbled was one word... Cabal...

 

[slippedhalo]

OOC: Season One Bloopers while we wait for more posts. (I think I've finally gotten us a Tesla!!!)

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2KNbExrKWHs&feature=related

 

[DalekRasputin]

Big Guy was struggling with the menu but did his best. This had to be good and he liked stretching his cooking skills but it wasn't just the food that bothered him. He had heard of Ashley's response to Isis after she had gone out of her way to find food and he swore if she did that to him over dinner she would end up wearing it!

Now Nikola was here and he could feel trouble brewing. Ashley was different, he knew that, but his fear was that the new Ashley was part Tudor and everyone knew what their morals were like. He feared she would fancy Nikola and could end up almost going head to head with her mother for him.

He tasted the various items on the menu and felt they were ready. After laying the table he lit the candles. All he needed now were diners and he lifted the phone to call Helen. As soon as he heard the voice he became humouresly formal as he tried to lighten his mood. "Dinner is served Madam". He replaced the handset and returned to the kitchen.

 

[slippedhalo]

Helen watched Ashley carefully for her physical response to the first draft of the serum...and Ashley's pulse grew thready and much too fast. Nikola caught Ashley just as she started to lose her balance and wobble dangerously close to falling off off her perch against the medical bed. Helen helped him to lift her onto the bed just as her eyes rolled back into her head, turning vampire-black, and Ashley's teeth and nails extended to the dangerous vampire lengths...A growl escaped Ashley's throat before she began to convulse.

"Alright, that didn't work." he said, breaking the moment of tense silence.

Helen pulled out the necessary drugs to settle this possible side effect and injected her daughter, stopping the spasms and calming her heart-rate. The vampire-state seemed to receed and she looked like a half-asleep version of Ashley once more. With a sigh, Helen reached for the vial that contained draft 1 and placed a red sticker on the outside of it. Her symbol for, FAIL.

Tesla reached into the pocket of his jacket, pulling out a small, brown leather case with four vials, a syringe, and a packet of sealed, sterilized needles, handing off a vial to Helen. "I always come prepared. One never knows if they'll be left in a bad situation for forty days...I can live with a month's supply on me. I have more at home." he said.

"Thank you, I thought I had accounted for every difference in her physiology. Otherwise, the serum here should be identical." said Helen, looking puzzled as she set to work with her molecular microscope and a drop of each on two separate slides. She was comparing the two and looking for anything she may have missed..."Oh, of course!" she said, noting something she had forgotten to account for.

Nikola watched the view quite attentively from where he hovered, watching stealthily as Helen bent over the microscope, her perfectionist nature suiting him so nicely (and the shape of her curvaceous arse's form so wonderfully and unconsciously displayed for his eyes to admire) he watched for several minutes as she worked, pretending to check Ashley's vitals. She'd be fine. Her new and improved vampire nature would make her quite strong, he knew. For now, he silently enjoyed imagining himself pressed against the marvolous woman before him, touching her all over, inside her...

Nikola came closer to her as she worked and it both irked and comforted Helen to feel him approaching behind her. She huffed a puff of air through her lips, blowing a stray strand of hair from her face in the process. "I can't believe I missed something so obvious. Look." Now, she let his hand find the small of her back as he leaned over her to look into the microscope and they discussed the missed characteristic and the changes to the serum necessary.

"Alright, "she said, brushing past him just as she thought she caught him smelling her hair at their nearness, using the new serum recipe as an excuse to get away from him. He was no good for her in that way but he sometimes could be too tempting... She created a new serum in a new vial and filled a brand new syringe. "Alright...let's try this one." she said, and injected Ashley just as her poor daughter was just starting to awaken from her earlier episode.

As Ashley seemed to be taking to this one much better and was also growing in alertness Helen smiled and nodded her approval to Nikola and then the intercom buzzed. It was the kitchen. Dinner was ready.

 

[YoungLisa]

Ashley Melaven

Ashley felt the injection and knew little else before her legs became jelly and she was lapsing into unconsciousness. She needed all her energy to cope as her nails and teeth began to metamorph into their pure Lamashtu heritage her Melaven personality had received in direct line from de Blythe.

Anger sored within her but she felt a prisoner in her own body unable to react as the counter treatment was administered. She was just regaining the use of her body when she was injected with Nikola’s serum. She heard the intercom buzz and Helen told everyone dinner was ready.

Raising her head Ashley said in temper “That’s right, use me as a pin cushion, fuck it up and then piss off to gorge yourselves at dinner.” Pushing herself up from the bed she continued “Well I’m coming with you, I want to see what food the monkey has prepared. No doubt by tonight we’ll all be swinging from trees and beating our breasts!” Then realising she might be coming across as a brat and desperate to impress Nikola she tried to insert some humour by quoting Shakespeare “Lead on McDuff!”

Roger de Blythe

de Blythe felt a sudden change in the atmosphere and he began to lose consciousness. Luckily he was alone in his flat so he was able to sit on the sofa and loosened his tie. He got a vision of a scientist injecting a young vampire with some serum that regressed her back to the crude basic vampire state of the descendants of Lamashtu, the offspring of the mating between demons and women that gave birth to the original vampires in ancient Mesopotamia. It was vampires in this direct line that had infected Alice and it was their venom he had given to Melaven.

Regaining his composure de Blythe induced himself into a coma releasing his astral body. In the ethers he was able to track the exact position from where the psychic disturbance had come. He saw Helen Magnus, Ashley, and the others working in the centre. Returning to his body he decided he would have approach the foundation and offer his services. Switching on his computer he wrote his resignation letter to St George’s Hospital. Once it was accepted he would begin putting out feelers to Magnus.

For centuries de Blythe believed he was the last pure descendant from Lamashtu. Now there was another, his old lover. He decided he would try to reason with her, make her see that what he did in Tudor times was a matter of survival. He would offer her the opportunity to join him in creating a Master Race. If she agreed then within a generation they would be ruling the world. If she rejected then he would destroy her once and for all. But first he had to approach Helen Magnus and do all in his power to win her confidence.

And if that included bedding her it would be a bonus.

 

[Asa]

Kate

Kate and Declan met up with everyone in the dining hall. Seeing the candles and ll that Kate glanced around.

I.. uh... I should go change right Magnus?

Hoping that her usual jeans and t shirt would be okay but doubting it and feeling a little self conscious.

Declan lean in and whispered... don't worry... he was getting used to how Kates mind worked.

~~
Isis

Isis had barely heard the summons coming through the intercom in her room but finally the words sank in and she turned heading tot he dining hall as well. Hoping that with company it would not be a round of 20 questions but this was Tesla present so who knew.

Walking into the hall in time to hear Kate she smiled to the young woman. I would much rather be dressed like you than in this infernal thing. She laughed trying to ease the girls mind.

 

[slippedhalo]

Raising her head Ashley said in temper “That’s right, use me as a pin cushion, fuck it up and then piss off to gorge yourselves at dinner.” Pushing herself up from the bed she continued “Well I’m coming with you, I want to see what food the monkey has prepared. No doubt by tonight we’ll all be swinging from trees and beating our breasts!”

Helen was absolutely aghast at Ashley's outburst and spun around to face her, "Ashley, you will watch that temper and language in this house. I don't care how old Melaven is. You're still my daughter and I expect you to behave yourself here with our friends and guests."

Ashley said, "Lead on MacDuff." feigning demure and appropriately chastised enough for the moment.

Helen shook her head in exhasperation and took the offered elbow of Nikola as they made their way down to the diningroom. Except for his bragging about some new invention ideas he was working on while they took the lift down, it was a silent chill from both women who eyed each other, Helen daring Ashley to behave for once and Ashley looking absolutely furious with Helen but she couldn't begin to imagine why that could be. She hoped her daughter's new surliness would pass soon.

The diningroom looked beautiful. Helen was quick to compliment Big Foot on his handiwork and she shook her head with a sympathetic smile at Kate's comment about attire. "Kate, whatever you want to wear is fine. No one's worrying about that." she assured her.

Helen made sure to greet Declan properly as well, "It's so good to have you back here. You've been sorely missed. Although, I have to admit, I don't miss not losing to you at billiards." she teased.

"Oh yes, Declan can wipe the floor with all of us at the billiards table, except, me, of course, superhuman/vampire abilities and all...but, for a non-abnormal he's quite the challenge, even for my exceptional talents." added Tesla conversationally.

Declan cleared his throat and held back laughter long enough to reply, "Uh, thank you, Nikola...I think from him that's supposed to be taken as a compliment."

This made the rest of the table burst into laughter and Nikola smile graciously, allowing a laugh or two at his expense. He could afford to considering how brilliant and amazing he was in comparison to most, he thought as his smile turned into a smirk. His eyes followed the wine being poured, of course, and soon he was complimenting Helen's taste in merlot.

 

[Asa]

Kate

Kate nodded to them and smiled sitting down.

Thanks... Looks amazing Big Guy...

Isis

Isis walked fully into the room and smiled to them she was clearly suffering from the same style of discomfort as Kate though hers was from not having worn a dress in many years and finding it a little strange.

She smiled to Declan who nodded though watching her for a moment brow raised as if he recognized her but could not place her. Dismissing it he moved to get her chair for her.

I am Declan

I am Isis...

Isis glanced to Tesla and pondered silencing his bragging by speaking of who won more of their hunting Matches but just smiled to him for now.

Greetings Nikola...

 

[slippedhalo]

OOC: I liked this and thought I'd pass on the link. Nicely written Helen and Tesla post from a short story perspective.
http://www.fanfiction.net/s/7164685/1/If_I_Lose_You

 

[YoungLisa]

OOC This is the result of emails between DalekRasputin and myself. It's a joint post


Ashley walked into the dining room like a spoilt child who had been denied her favourite ice cream. Looking at the two men she said “All this boasting about billiards. It’s obvious neither of you have played someone who knows the game backwards.”

Slumping into her chair she looked to Big Guy “I hope you aint moulting, the last thing we need is monkey hairs in their food. Ignoring the looks of shock she waited to be served. Looking at the food she turned “I hope you don’t expect us to eat this. I’d rather drink the dregs from Isa’s buck.” Turning to her mother she said “Are you sure you’ve trained this monkey in the art of catering? He’s not feeding the abnormals now!”

Seeing she had got everyone’s attention Ashley looked round for the expressions of shock horror.

Big Guy ignored the personal insult but insulting the food was just too much. Looking at Helen he reached over and grabbed Ashley by the back of the neck and lifted her as though she were a rabbit. Placing his left foot on the chair he bent her over his knee and gave her ten hard smacks on the bottom. “I know it’s been hard for you, and you are not yourself but you have gone too far. I warn you now do that again and I’ll put your head down the toilet and pull the chain.”

Turning to the kitchen he stopped and turned back. “I want to be your friend, your ally and defender. And if you let me I will. But make an enemy of me and I’ll dedicate the rest of my life to making yours hell on earth. DO YOU UNDERSTAND ME?” Calming down he said quietly “Now apologise to your mother and her guests!”

Turning to Helen and said “I’m sorry, but she’s been asking for that. I know she’s your daughter and if I’ve offended I’ll move out tonight.”

Before her mother could reply Ashley interrupted “NO! That would be so wrong!” Looking at Helen she said “Don’t let him leave; it’s my fault I’m behaving like a spoilt brat.” She moved across to Big Guy and kissed him on the cheek “I’m sorry! Those things I said were cruel and uncalled for. I don’t know what came over me.”

Moving into the middle of the room she addressed all present “I’m not trying to make excuses, my behaviour was awful! What’s worse I can’t control it, I cannot promise it won’t happen again.” Moving close to her mother and Nikola she said “If either of you can help me I’ll be very grateful. And …” Looking at Big Guy “I want you to be my friend and I want to be yours. Forgive me?” The gentle head nodded and beckoned Ashley to take her seat.

Ashley ate everything served to her and as she folded her napkin away she said “That was amazing Big Guy. One of the best meals I’ve had. Now … can I help with the washing up?”

 

[Asa]

Kate

Kate just stared at Big Guy stunned. Not sure what to think after that display. She was worried however with Big Guy and Isis and Ashley's bouts of psychotic flip outs and attitude problems things were going to get interesting.

She glanced to Declan who was busy keeping his attention on his meal

Simply nodding to Ashley and smiling at her apology.

Isis

Isis gritted her teeth, she had been doing her best not to snap and plant Ashley against a wall... and now to see Big Guy do it maybe she will not have to.

She listened to Ashley's apology and smiled to her. At least with all of this she could get out of any questions for now.

 

[slippedhalo]

The dinner party was goin just fine until Ashley's new bad side played up and she began cursing and insulting the food, the guests, and Biggie. Helen stood from the table, her mouth formed a set line as she grit her teeth and debated how to handle this new outburst. It could not be tolerated, this abhorrent behavior...and then, just as Helen stood indecisively trying to decide on the best course of action here Biggie stepped in and took the matter into his own hands, literally. He picked Ashley up as if she were nothing more than a spoiled four year old, set her over his knee and actually delivered a spanking!

Helen's jaw dropped. In Ashley's whole childhood she'd only done such a thing two or three times at most. But, then again, even when her manners were deplorable, Ashley was never disrespectful like she was being now. Still, seeing the look on Ashley's face in response, she had to admit, it wasn't far from what she'd been wishing she could get away with now, despite the fact of the girl being an adult of 23, 24 if she'd been alive the past year...

Big Foot looked slightly sheepish afterward, but not at all embarrassed, 'Turning to Helen and said “I’m sorry, but she’s been asking for that. I know she’s your daughter and if I’ve offended I’ll move out tonight.”

Before her mother could reply Ashley interrupted “NO! That would be so wrong!” Looking at Helen she said “Don’t let him leave; it’s my fault I’m behaving like a spoilt brat.” She moved across to Big Guy and kissed him on the cheek “I’m sorry! Those things I said were cruel and uncalled for. I don’t know what came over me.”

Moving into the middle of the room she addressed all present “I’m not trying to make excuses, my behaviour was awful! What’s worse I can’t control it, I cannot promise it won’t happen again.” Moving close to her mother and Nikola she said “If either of you can help me I’ll be very grateful. And …” Looking at Big Guy “I want you to be my friend and I want to be yours. Forgive me?” The gentle head nodded and beckoned Ashley to take her seat.

Ashley ate everything served to her and as she folded her napkin away she said “That was amazing Big Guy. One of the best meals I’ve had. Now … can I help with the washing up?”'

Helen smiled and nodded to Ashley, "Much better, Ashley, I think that sounds like a good idea. Time in the kitchen washing up might help you to think about this incident and come up with a way to hold back the awful, disrespectful brat that's fused with you now. She won't be tolerated. Believe me." Helen said, firmly but maintaining the pleasant smile as Ashley excused herself and the rest of the dinner party continued on as dessert was served. It seemed Biggie had managed just fine after all and now they had two choices.

Nikola smiled at the familiar Serbian pastries before him. "Very nice, Helen, all of my favorites, even some from home. You really do pay attention to what I like don't you? See? I knew she loved me back." he half teased.

Helen's smile played into a slight sneer as she replied, "Oh, Nikola, it's always all about you, isn't it? Honestly, one meal in his honour and he fancies the hostess loves him. So, no mints on the pillows, tonight, folks, just in case anyone mistakes them for marriage proposals." she teased.

"Ah, Anđele moj, you just wait and see. I'm getting on your good side, we have all the time in the world for things to turn around my way..." murmured Tesla softly into his wine glass before emptying it and holding Helen's stare in a way that always made her knees just slightly wobbly.

 

[YoungLisa]

OOC I’ve nicked the character photo of Damon Salvatore in Vampire Diaries played by Ian Somerhalder. This is for two reasons. (1) it’s how I imagine de Blythe and (2) he gives me naughty thoughts! – He can suck my blood anytime he wants!

http://i725.photobucket.com/albums/ww254/younglisa/deBlythe.jpg

de Blythe looked through his collection of passports and driving licenses he had gathered in various different names and decided he would use the one he had created for Dr Alan Bailey used during his time working in Ireland. He brought together his references and set out to discover exactly how he could contact Heather Magnus.

Eventually he tracked her down together with radio frequencies, e mail addresses and contact details. His E Mail began

Dear Professor Magnus

It has come to my attention that you are doing some valuable research into the history of vampirism dating back to the Mesopotamian period. I have dedicated my life to this research and as well as being a leading haematologist in the medical sense I can help you in your striving to eliminate the adverse effects this curse has on humanity today.

If you wish to contact me please E Mail back and I’ll arrange to meet at a convenient place and time.

Yours Sincerely

Alan Bailey,

MBBS, MSc First Class University of Oxford (Haematology), MA Cambridge University (Ancient myths), PHD Study of Lamashtu legends of the Babylonian Culture

 

[Asa]

Kate

Well back to work for me... Wonderful big guy as always... Anyone needs my help I will be back in the holding tank lab.

With that she stood up and nodded to everyone and turned to go.

Declan looked to her and then back to Helen.

Well aren't you a bad influence on her Helen.

He chuckled with that British accent shook his head. We will need to talk soon about my findings on the file Kate got me and the "charming" little hounds.

Tesla We don't have enough room for you to bring anyone back remember that old man...

He laughed again and went to follow Kate... Wonderful meal but I guess I too must get back to work... I would love to prove one of my findings wrong...

Isis

She looked to Helen and Tesla laughing... she has seen this little song and dance between them before. It never failed to be entertaining. Perhaps the perfect time to slip off.

Perhaps I should be going as well before Tesla thinks that all the females here are open season... Well other than Kate... and I... as I recall the last drunken hitting on me old friend nearly got your fangs knocked out... well that and this...

Giving her old friend a kiss on the cheek as she started to leave.

You know where I will be Helen. I have missed looking out over the city from the turret there near my room.

Turning she pat Big Guy on the cheek as she walked by unless Helen stopped her for them to catch up.

 

[slippedhalo]

Helen texted Ashley to remind her to meet her back at the lab before bedtime so she could check her one more time to ensure the serum was really working and set her up with her first few bottles of nutrient supplements and animal plasma.

Ashley's response was, SOUNDS THRILLING. C U THEN. Helen laughed, imagining her daughter's eye roll accompanying the text. It was so good to have her back, really amazing. Helen felt so warm and happy at this moment. Things were never truly perfect but she felt the world was nearly there tonight.

As the dining-room cleared it left just her and Tesla relaxing there and he rose, offering his arm, headed for her sitting room where the fireplace was already warm and welcoming and where yet another bottle of wine, two glasses, and a tray with nibbles were set for them. Helen mused to herself, that Biggie had certainly outdone himself as a host tonight. She'd have to make sure he knew how impressed she and the rest had been as soon as she saw him again.

It was with a comfortable silence, and quite full stomachs, that Nikola and Helen made their leisurely way to the sitting room. He retired upon a plush settee, leaning back luxuriously with the familiar comfort of someone who truly felt at home. She sat in a stuffed leather chair just adjacent, his knobby knee touching her thigh for a brief electric moment before decorum made him move to sit slightly more upright than originally, looking over at Helen with unrestrained pleasure. "This was a fantastic dinner, Helen. I do say, considering you only got back home from yet another near death experience just mere hours ago you certainly can throw together a shindig." he complimented.

He moved over on his settee, closer to where she sat with her long legs crossed at the knee and placed his left hand upon her knee as he leaned forward, his blue-grey eyes meeting her own blue, asking, "Is it good to be home? To have Ashley back? You have a look in your eyes, as if there's something you want to say further but hold back...You never have to hold back with me, Helen. I know you better than anyone. What is it?"

She stared into his eyes as she paused to consider what he might mean. He was being serious now, not teasing or trying to flirt. He wanted to know if something was bothering her. Helen shook her head and sighed, "It's fine. Everything's fine." she said, lying slightly.

He tilted his head, smile fading as his gaze conveyed he wasn't buying it.

Helen sat back, her fingers gently prying his off of the sensitive spot just above her knee he seemed to be unconsciously tracing sexy circles over with his middle finger...He sighed in defeat and moved out of her space just slightly, his face still holding the expression of concern.

She shook her head, "It's too good to be true, Ashley, I mean...even...even the new developments in my love life...I know something horrible will go wrong and I guess my mind's working overtime to try to predict just what that will be." she admitted, coloring at her personal admissions.

Nikola looked slightly hurt by a love life confession but covered it up quite quickly, nearly undetectably, nearly, Helen had caught it. He made his expression neutral once more when saying, "Well, well, somebody's feeling quite pessimistic, aren't we?" he teased, his usual smirk returned. He reached out this time and patted Helen's hand, "Try to enjoy life's pleasant moments, Helen. Of course everything does turn to shit eventually. But, you'll never have any fun if you sit around waiting for it to happen."

"I suppose you're right, Nikola." Helen said, pouring him a glass of wine. They clinked glasses and sipped in silence, watching the fire dance on the hearth for a moment before the inevitable question came up.

"So, who is it you're going to deny my love for this time, Helen?"

It was sumptuous wine, a lovely bouquet, her favourite vintage and maker...but the taste of her wine went instantly bitter on her tongue and her mood fell once again. How could she keep hurting Nikola this way? Why did she do it? Whenever they were alone like this she felt nothing but attraction, comfortable friendship, even loving feelings for him and a relationship with him, she imagined in moments like these that it could be so easy, even fun...It was when others were around, he was somewhat embarrassing, his ego, his self-absorbtion, his arrogance...it was infuriating! Add to that his lust for power and greed for all the finer things...it made her think they'd end up hating each other in the end, not even friends. And, his friendship was so valuable to her.
Still, Helen had to admit...she sometimes felt he was wearing her resolve down. A strong part of her wanted to at least keep a man like Tesla around as a lover as well as a friend. If only he wasn't so hell-bent on making an honest woman out of her...

His face looked quite amused as he watched the emotions flicker across Helen's features. Finally, all she managed to say was, "None of your bloody business, Nikola. Pour me another glass." and handed him her glass for more wine as he laughed and poured, happily getting his beautiful best friend tipsy.

 

[slippedhalo]

OOC: Calling all men!!!

 

[YoungLisa]

Ashley helped Big Guy with the washing up as well as serving the dessert which seemed to go down well. After the rest of the guests had left she helped in clearing away and making the dining area look like a new pin. Just before she left she hugged Big Guy, kissed him on the cheek and felt warm tears of shame flow down her cheeks. The gentle giant pulled her to him, kissed her forehead and gave her a paternal smile that said everything was forgiven and forgotten. Ashley determined to ensure she never ever
offended him again.

As she took her leave she received a text from her mother reminding her to meet her in the laboratory before bedtime. “WOOPY DO!” Ashley said to Big Guy and rolled her eyes “Mom wants me to meet her for some more tests. Is there no end to the excitement?” Both grinned and Ashley text her mother back ‘SOUNDS THRILLING. CU THEN.’ On the way back she passed one of the common rooms where a television had been left on with a DVD playing an episode from the TV Series the Tudors. As Ashley watched the drama unfold she saw the seduction of Elizabeth Darrell by Thomas Wyatt. Her mind flashed back to her time as Melaven when she was lady in waiting to Katherine of Aragon. She felt herself become moist as she relived her own deflowering by Javier Banderas.

Although she later accused him of rape it was to gain favour in the King’s eyes and further isolate Queen Katherine. But it was no rape and Melaven knew it. She had planned the whole thing in the first place to satisfy her curiosity. She had made a point of telling Banderas she was untouched and would remain so until her marriage. Yet her body signals were inviting him and once they were alone she offered no resistance as first he released her breasts and then threw her on the bed. The moment of penetration had hurt but was soon forgotten as she experienced her first orgasm as Bandera’s hot seed engulfed her womb.

Snapping herself out of her trance like state Melaven was back in the present watching as Wyatt ended Elizabeth’s hope of becoming a nun. Standing she left the room and made her way to the laboratory. Entering she saw Helen and Nikola enjoying a drink together and exchanging some flirtatious banter. Looking at Nikola with the same eyes that five centuries before had seduced the hapless Banderas she said slowly “What does a girl have to do round here to get a drink?” And without asking she grabbed his glass and drained it down “So much better when shared don’t you think?” The seduction on her voice was there for all to hear and she sensed Helen’s discomfort.

Taunting Helen Melaven laughed “You’re looking at me as if to say ‘I never did!’” She laughed “But Mother, the fact I’m here proves YOU MUST HAVE DONE!” She laughed uncontrollably. Looking at Nikola she said “You’d be surprised what I learned from the Tudors. I’ll have to show you sometime.” Turning back to Helen she said “Well, get on with it, test the new serum and let me rest. And don’t make too much noise!” She looked at Nikola “I hear these Victorians can be loud in bed.” She laughed again as she held out her arm.

The serum began to take effect immediately and Ashley started making apologies “O God! I’ve done it again! Shown myself up, I’m … I’m so sorry!” She took a deep breath and sighed “I’ll leave you … I’ll leave you in peace” As she spoke she turned the door handle, opened the door and said “Goodnight.” Then she was gone.