AU: Sanctuary [Vamps, Closed]

[Gryphon Matsuoka]

To say Gryph was on edge would be a mild understatement. He felt like they were going in the right direction, but was also extremely deterred from going further with every step he took. Maybe it was something to do with the fact that he had been a hunter not so long ago, or maybe it was to do with the silver knife hanging carefully on his belt - completely silver, handle and all. Or maybe it was just because he was a human, almost willfully walking directly towards a coven filled with multiple vampires of varying ages, and he felt intimidated before they had even seen one.

Gryphon felt bad for Kodi, considering he would know Gryph was feeling all this, thanks to that imprint. As they got closer, his grip on his lover's cold hand got a little tighter. He didn't want to be scared but... he couldn't help it. And they needed this. They weren't going to be strong enough to survive much longer at this rate.

The winged man spotted a gate in the far distance and shuddered, "Guess... we're almost there, then." He said cautiously, slowly looking around for any signs of hostility. He fell silent again, taking measured breaths as he tried to replace his fear with confidence. This would be worth it. They would be safer here. He began to calm a little as he remembered his hunter training - that would be useful. Gryph developed a strong glint of certainty in his eye. He was a strong person. He knew how to defend himself. They probably weren't allowed to touch imprinted humans. And he had Kodi. He would be fine.

Most probably.

[Deleted]

Kodi hoped he knew what he was doing…

But who was he kidding? He really didn’t, he was just going by instinct. Instinct telling him that being on his own was dangerous, that both of them were going to get killed, or worse, if Kodi kept trying to protect them by himself. Okay, so Gryph wasn’t totally helpless, being an ex-hunter and all, but… He still wouldn’t be able to do much against a more powerful rogue vampire that needed a meal, or the group of hunters that were likely searching for them right now. No… They needed protection from a clan.

He could feel Gryphon’s trepidation the closer they got to the coven’s entrance. He’d felt the moment they’d passed into the coven’s territory, and… And wow. There was something ancient lurking in the ground here. It nearly overwhelmed his senses. “Yeah… We’re almost there,” he rasped in agreement, hesitating only momentarily before continuing on. His cold hand clutched onto Gryph’s protectively. “Did you feel it?” he asked in a low voice as they walked closer to the source of power. He wasn’t sure if it was perceptible to humans – even hunters – or not.

He’d spotted the gate before Gryph had, thanks to his enhanced vision in the dim lighting, but it took a while longer before they reached it. He felt the human’s fear slowly increasing the closer they got, and Kodi wrapped an arm around him and paused. “Are you… Are you sure you’re okay with…?” He was about to suggest they try to find another option, but then a different emotion replaced Gryph’s anxiety, and Kodi smiled proudly at him. “… You’re so brave,” he breathed, leaning in and nuzzling the man’s neck before giving it a quick lick. “I won’t let them do anything to you, okay? I may not be as powerful as some of them, but I’m invincible for you.” He hoped he was right. “… I’ve heard of this place before. They’re intimidating, but fair, as far as I know.” Kodi began meandering forward again, peeking past the gate as they got close. Surely they would have someone waiting to greet them?

[Gryphon Matsuoka]

It didn't matter that he used to be a hunter - Gryphon was primarily human. Against a vampire, with training or not, he was at a disadvantage, which only grew with the number of years the vampire being dealt with had lived. His hunter training did give him a little confidence and hope, that if he was in a sticky situation, he would be more likely to survive, but he was still human, and Kodi was still basically a baby, in vampire years. The possibility of him keeping the pair of them safe by himself much longer was smaller than Gryph wished it was.

"Feel what?" He asked, before continuing himself, "I mean... it feels eery, but... welcoming...?" Gryphon struggled to find another way to describe it - there wasn't something solid he could pinpoint.

When they stopped, Gryph took a breath, and was going to say something as he began to feel more confident (though not necessarily comfortable), but waited until Kodi noticed his change of attitude, his reaction making the human smile and look down timidly, returning the embrace for a moment and smiling wider at the neck lick. He nodded, "...okay." He trusted Kodi a lot, he knew both his own core emotion and the imprint meant that his vampire wouldn't be afraid to protect if necessary. As they walked and Kodi talked, Gryphon regarded his words, "Makes sense then," He said, "Why they've survived so long." He felt slightly unsettled, but kept walking as Kodi did.

"Don't you love the smell of fear?"

Gryph blinked a little, remaining composure at the sound of the strange voice. A figure revealed himself from the shadows, eyes gleaming dark red, fangs showing. Gryphon didn't like the age he could feel coming off of him. He glanced at Kodi as the figure spoke again, "So, what? This morsel a peace offering or a pathetic excuse for a pet?"

Oh, Finn loved riling people on. He could have fun when he wanted. With the human's attention distracted, he took a goood lick of his neck, snickering as he kept an eye on the vampire. He probably wouldn't be happy, from what he could tell at first impressions, "Mmm... not really of my tastes. Hey, Jackson," He called out to his 'guarding partner', "Have a taste, this one's too sweet for me." He grinned evilly in response to the firey look of anger at was being directed at him from Gryph. Of course, he was only teasing, but oh man, this was entertaining. He'd get down to business soon, maybe when this human was more intimidated. These new people needed to be taught some rules before they could be presented to Rue and initiated anyway.

[Deleted]

Finn knew well Jackson’s tastes. The sweeter, the more innocent, the better. And by ‘innocent’ he meant…it didn’t necessarily mean ‘unsullied’, like a virgin or a child. But more…naïveté. Certainly it was better in the youth than in the elderly, but it basically all tasted the same when you got right down to it. Because the fear, the despair, the feeling of utter hopelessness that emanated from their essence….it only became sweeter the more acute those feelings were when he finally drained them.

This….human pet - or ‘offering’ as Finn presumed - was just oozing in innocence. What was even cuter was how he was pretending to put on a strong face, trying to hide his unease. As if he and Finn couldn’t smell it a mile away. They’d known the pair were coming long before they reached the gate(though it was Master Rue who sensed them first and notified his most trusted underlings), so of course they noticed when the human’s sweet aroma wafted onto the coven grounds. Jackson’s mouth was already watering, expecting a most generous meal from this new pair of…guests.

“Is that supposed to be charity?” he scoffed at his companion, his form too slinking out of the shadows. He peered down on their visitors, squatting still on his perch atop the stone column beside the gate. “This won’t make up for it, you know?” For Finn stealing his dinner earlier that evening. The brat-vampire sent them a toothy grin. In the blink of an eye, Jackson was there, beside his offered ‘meal’ and giving it an appraising sniff. “Hmmm,” he hummed, giving the human a small taste as well, mimicking Finn’s actions from the other side. Jackson grinned like a boy about to play with his most favoritest toy. “I like it,” he announced, licking his lips hungrily. Jackson leaned in again for another taste, hopefully a real nibble this time.

[Deleted]

“Never mind,” was all Kodi said about the sensation he felt. It must just be for vampires, he figured. “The welcoming part is probably what lures humans in without them realizing it…” A neat trick, he had to admit. Not one that he knew how to do…

He nodded as they walked, continuing to look warily around for any sign of movement. Kodi saw none. “Yeah… I’m sure we’ll be safe here,” he said with some confidence. “Hell, maybe I’ll take over someday. Become leader of the pack.” Kodi chuckled drily; of course, he didn’t mention how, if Gryph stayed human, he’d be long dead of old age by that point… Nope, not thinking about it.

Kodi was about to… Knock, or call out, or something, but then that voice whispered out over the air, and it took all of the young vampire’s composure not to tense up. When the figure appeared, he took the tiniest of steps back, simply from being overwhelmed with the power that radiated off of the figure. Holy fuck… Kodi really hoped he knew what he was getting them into… “He’s mine,” he said simply, his voice clear but firm. “My pet, my human… My mate.” He would have snapped at someone normally for saying such things, but Kodi knew when he was outmatched and needed to show respect. For both his and Gryph’s sakes.

And then… Another figure appeared from nowhere. He felt younger, but… Still very old, much older than Kodi had anticipated. If these were just the guards… What was their leader like? The young vampire was distracted in his thoughts when the older of the two suddenly decided it was alright to take a taste of his Gryphon. “Hey…” he growled, wrapping a protective arm around Gryph’s waist, but trying not to lose his temper like he wanted to. “You’re not allowed to feed from an imprinted human, correct? Coven laws?” He’d heard that… Somewhere. Kodi glowered at the younger vampire as he, too, took a taste of his lover. “I would appreciate it if you didn’t do that,” he grumbled, tugging Gryph behind him and protecting him with his own body.

Kodi lifted his chin. “We seek refuge with your clan,” he told them, swallowing the fear in his voice. “There are only two of us, and we… We need help. We won’t survive much longer on our own.” He kept holding Gryph behind him. “But… But I have to know that we will both be safe with you,” Kodi added slowly. “His protection is my utmost concern, more than my own. If he isn’t welcome as anything more than a snack, then… Then I’m sorry to have wasted your time.” As much as he wanted to tear into the two for the intimidating they had done to his human, Kodi knew that was a bad idea. So he swallowed his pride and anger and waited for an answer.

[Gryphon Matsuoka]

Gryphon already felt uncomfortable, as much as he tried to hide it, and it was easily sensed by Finn, as was Kodi's annoyance. It was definitely amusing. Gryph didn't like being spoken about as if he was a thing, a... possession and not a person, though he couldn't do much about it right now. Finn chuckled as Kodi confirmed what Gryph was for, "Your mate?" He sneered, "How sweet." It wouldn't last, considering a human's puny lifespan and Rue's ways of doing things. Finn hadn't quite realised the imprint yet, but even with it, the pair of them could easily get split up a lot, considering their different purposes, their different... statuses. Some silly imprint wouldn't stop the system from working as it should.

Gryph had put a hand to his neck where he had been tasted, not liking it at all and trying to protect himself from having it happen again. It was difficult to ignore the banter between the two older vampires though, but although he was most certain intimidated, he tried not to show it, being bold with his actions, trying to hold certainty. Finn chuckled at Jackson, "It's not charity if I know you would prefer it, it's making sure we don't waste good food." Because that's all humans were good for. That and... intimate things. He shrugged about this not making up for their earlier escapades - Jackson would get his fill soon enough.

Finn, however, didn't like the rules being recited to him. Only now did he notice their connection, the way their emotions floated between each other sometimes, but still, he scowled. Gryphon was angry too, and began reaching for his knife, which Finn only just noticed, "I wouldn't do that if I were you." He warned, and Gryph sneered, "Oh what, so now you feel threatened?" He gloated. Finn only grew more annoyed, "Fine, you bloodbag. If your owner's going to throw rules at me, I'll make some clear to you." Despite Kodi's protection, he stood in front of the pair of them, glaring, before addressing Kodi, "Pets are to be kept in line. They're human," He practically spat the word, "And should be treated as such." He looked at Gryph again, "You do not look another vampire in eye without permission, you do not speak unless spoken to and you follow every order given to you, understood?"

It was, but Gryphon kept looking at him, and remained silent. Finn growled a little, before letting it go a bit and stepping back, "I'll deal with you later, bloodsack." No names for humans. He glanced at Kodi, "Keep your pet in line."

As the baby vampire explained what they were here for, Finn looked at Jackson, keeping himself from rolling his eyes at the pity party. Gryphon blinked and looked at Kodi when he went on about protection and such, but what he said was understandable, so he said nothing on it. Finn spoke once he was done garbling, but it was aimed at Jackson, "You think they're worth the hassle?" He looked at the pair of them. Of course, the person to decide this would be Rue, and not Finn and Jackson, but they didn't need to say that. Finn looked at the vampire, "Name?" He asked, blatantly ignoring the human. Like he'd already said, he didn't need a name. "We have more to explain before you can meet the leader, but this one should be obvious," He looked at Gryphon, "No silver weaponry." Couldn't have anyone getting hurt because of a jumpy nervous human. Gryph, however, made no attempt to get rid of his dagger, staring Finn down. It would be too dangerous if he got rid of it.

Finn left some of the rules in the air - maybe Jackson would explain them, maybe they'd just come to light during the conversation. As long as they were all covered before they reached Rue.

((ooc: gryph's thousandth post! eeee!))

[Deleted]

His mate? Like Finn, Jackson found the idea ridiculous and he barked out a loud, childish laugh, doubling over as he held his trembling stomach.   Why would any vampire choose a human as a mate? They’d be dead before any real bonding could happen(not that he’d ever tried with another eternal being either), you may as well marry a goldfish, that’s how quick it would be over.

Jackson wouldn’t notice the imprint, likely, until he finally got a decent taste of the human.  That was another area where Finn’s skills were better than his younger counterpart’s.  Jackson figured the kid was just….playing around with his food, like Jackson usually did. Though once he found out about it….Jackson had his own opinion about how imprints ought to be used, and none of them involved sharing a lifetime of love with a bag of blood and bones.

Jackson swiveled around the baby-vampire with some interest, poking and prodding and sniffing - he wanted to memorize his smell, in case he ever had to go searching for the kid – all while Finn iterated the rules concerning human pets.  “And don’t forget,” he jumped in, coming up on the human from behind again(he liked doing that) and whispering in his ear. “Sharing is caring~”  Jackson would let them figure out for themselves what that meant, though….Master Rue would probably make that well known in good time.  

The young vampire was cocky, though.  In a way, that was a good thing.  It gave him confidence, and one could always use confidence, especially in a kill-or-be-killed world like this one. Jackson might just have to give him some(like an itty-bitty bit of) points for not having completely cowered under his and Finn’s collective aura already, despite looking like he might do so anyway any second now.  But….it was also always the young, cocky ones that bit it first, and not in the way that got you a heart-y meal. 
 
“Finn, Finn, I swear, I’mma die, this guy’s a comedian.”  Jackson was trying to hold back his cackles at the baby-vamp’s words. He was just sooo serious, it was kinda cute, actually. He beamed up at his elder companion.  “Dunno if you do but….can I  keep him?” he pleaded, referring only to the vampire. He couldn’t care less about the human unless it involved the word ‘dinner’. “I promise I’ll feed him.”  How much was debatable.  And that offer too wasn’t extended to the human.  Yes, yes, Jackson was gonna have a brand new pet vampire to love and to hold and to torture and…well teach how to love and to hold and to torture more effectively.  Jackson always wanted a baby brother!  All the new kids that came in these days were either stupid, ugly, mean, or got themselves killed within the decade.  This one probably would to….but it was a fun pet project. 

“Hmph….let him keep it, Finn.” Jackson snorted disdainfully at the human. “Let him find out what happens when the rules are broken the hard way.” Jackson was looking forward to watching it learn that lesson. Master Rue didn’t mind audiences much, after all.

“Oh, also, every Tuesday, we eat pizza off of Finn’s stomach. He loves it, so don’t be afraid to go all out.” Jackson grinned. It was a cheap shot, but still worth it.

[Deleted]

Kodi bit back a retort as the two vampires seemed to find the pairing amusing. Sure, it might not be ‘natural’, but what was ‘natural’ about any of this? “We were mated before I turned, and we still are now,” he mumbled, keeping Gryph close to his side. “He brought me back from the brink of insanity. Don’t you r-remember your younger years?” Surely they had experienced the same as he. There was no power being a vampire when crazed with bloodlust. And Gryph had brought him out of that darkness.

He just held onto Gryph as the two vampires shared banter. Kodi sniffed where the two creatures had licked his beloved, and promptly slid his tongue over each spot, effectively claiming him back. He wasn’t going to let any remnant of them stain the ex-hunter if he could help it.

His eyes widened as Gryphon went for his knife, and was actually relieved when the older vampire started rattling off some of the other rules that he knew already, but still winced to hear. It was hard to concentrate, too, with the younger of the two poking and prodding him like a piece of meat. He bared a fang on instinct; upon closer inspection, the guy only looked to be in his teens, which was confusing given his strong aura. “He’ll follow the rules, I promise,” he finally said, speaking to Finn. Kodi squeezed Gryph’s side. “We wouldn’t want to risk making any stupid mistakes for the sake of pride.” He really hoped he was right, and winced when Finn told him to keep Gryphon in line. “We’ll talk,” he promised. Kodi wanted to make sure Gryph would really listen, even if it meant… Grr… Acting lower than these old prunes…

He kept his gaze steady as he spoke of their intentions, and waited silently for their response, even as Jackson kept snuffling around him like a puppy. Kodi had to keep himself form grimacing. He glanced at him when Finn addressed his partner, but didn’t speak until asked for his name. “Kodi Oubre,” he said, and added,”This is Gryphon Matsuoka.” He didn’t expect them to call Gryph by his name, but he wanted them to know that he wasn’t going to start treating his lover like a sack of blood just because they were intimidating. He glanced at Gryph when the knife came up again, and winced. “Babe… I… I really don’t think it’s a good idea to bring that in,” Kodi murmured, struggling not to back away himself from the sight of the deadly weapon. “Okay?” He hoped the ex-hunter would see sense and listen.

And then… The younger one… Was laughing at him? Kodi’s crimson eyes fell onto the younger of the two as he called him a comedian. He didn’t say anything, but his jaw tensed at the idea of Jackson ‘taking care’ of him. Kodi was about to snap and say he didn’t need to be taken care of, but… Suddenly an idea came to him, and he dipped his head respectfully to the childish vamp. “I’m sure there’s a lot you could teach me,” he said earnestly. “I’m still barely turned myself, and… And I want to be able to protect myself.” And Gryph, he added silently. Mostly Gryph. If he got on this guy’s good side, maybe life would be easier for both of them in here. “I would be honored to learn from someone as old and wise as you.”

The words felt like bile on his tongue, but he said them. Hopefully Gryphon would be smart and keep quiet. Kodi’s brows furrowed quizzically at the last bit of ‘information’. “Uh…” he grunted, glancing at who he assumed was ‘Finn’. “… Something tells me he wouldn’t be amused,” he commented, hoping his playing along with the joke would help him get even more on the younger one’s good side.

[Gryphon Matsuoka]

Finn nodded, apparently earnest, at first, "Oh yeah, I remember," He smirked, "Those were the good years." Got him used to the bloodlust, the way of doing things. Finn definitely used to be a wimp, even worse than this pathetic excuse for a vampire, but thanks to all his years of growing knowledge and building on experience, he was one of the most powerful beings in the coven. Of course, he couldn't be compared to Rue. Rue was on a whole different level.

Gryphon looked at his lover when he heard him smell him, and then looked down, almost in shame, though what had happened really wasn't his fault. He shivered as Kodi licked him, and pecked his cheek when he was done. If Kodi channeled Gryph's emotions, he would be able to tell how terrified he truly was. He was just trying his very best to cover it up.

Finn noticed the little affectionate session, but said nothing. It was gross.

Gryphon wanted nothing more right now than to just stab these two demons in the heart and turn around and run away. His common sense knew the danger was worse on the outside of this territory, but he still hated this a lot. He didn't like how the younger-seeming vampire was messing about with Kodi, he didn't like basically being told to act like a slave and he didn't like the threat that silently loomed in the air, which was why he was being so twitchy about his weapon. He didn't exactly trust this situation much at all. Gryph looked at Kodi disbelievingly as he spoke for him, before looking away and scowling. Oh yeah, they were definitely going to talk. Gryph had a lot to say. Finn grinned at the human's annoyance, "Good."

He stiffened up when Jackson came near him, not understanding the cryptic message. He didn't want to know what it meant, really. Finn, however, smirked when he overheard, being the opposite. He knew exactly what his partner-in-crime was on about.

"Kodi Oubre." Finn repeated, nodding slowly, "Alright." He didn't even seem to hear the human's name because did it look like he cared? He just thought the baby vampire was being ridiculous, giving a human such respect. What was the point? And weakly suggesting that he got rid of the weapon - there was no need to waste so much time! If they were imprinted, surely he could force him to do it through that? Finn sighed, and Gryph's brow furrowed, "No, it's not," He muttered. He saw sense in not putting himself in unnecessary danger, still very unhappy with his counterpart, "Do you want me to be defenseless?" That was an unfair position to put Kodi in, but with his personal conviction and Jackson's words, even though they worried him slightly, he kept his knife on his belt. He wasn't going to given up his defense that easily.

Finn scoffed at first, at the idea of Jackson taking up this 'Kodi' as some kind of vampire pet, but it was an amusing idea. The baby was obviously trying to remain respectful, especially with how he reacted to Jackson's words. It was extremely amusing, even if Finn only showed his entertainment through a sly grin. Since when was Jackson wise? Ah, well, that wasn't his problem, "I'm sure Master Rue would like to know first, but I don't see why not." He said, revealing the leader's name.

Finn scowled at Jackson's joking, and the fact that both Kodi and his human seemed at least mildly entertained, the human more so, as he actually laughed (quietly) at the comment. Finn scowled at Gryphon, who did nothing more than match his eyes and smirk in return. Finn wasn't pleased by this. "No, I wouldn't." He scowled at Jackson a bit, before leaving it be, turning around, "Come on," He directed, opening the doors in front of them telekinetically. As they walked, a few vampires peeked out at the scent of blood, and Gryph clutched Kodi's hand tight, trying to steady his breathing and his heart rate, but he couldn't help it. Otherwise, outwardly, he looked at many of them, intrigued and slightly overwhelmed as they walked. He'd be fine, he'd be fine...

"Soon, we will be meeting with Master Rue," Finn announced, looking back at the baby, "You must regard him with the utmost respect at all times." He said. It was only what their leader deserved.

[Deleted]

Oh, so it was supposed to be one of those stories, huh? This vampire was just being soft, but he was clinging onto a life that was already gone and dead, like this human would be soon. He’d realize soon enough that you couldn’t take your old life with you, and being attached to it was only going to get him killed. And hunted. Jackson smiled, though it was the furthest thing from warm. “Don’t you know how long ago that was?” he asked rhetorically, scoffing at the youngling. Though there was one thing Jackson shared with the young vampire. “I remember all the way back to even before I was turned,” he said smugly. Many vampires forgot once they crossed the line between life and the undead, but Jackson was one of the few who retained his memories from the very beginning. It was a matter of adaptation, he theorized once, and attachment to one’s former life. “I went home, greeted my momma with a hug and a kiss…and then she became my first meal. It was…satisfying. Hee hee…” Jackson’s smile became more sleek and twisted as he told his short tale. Ahh, the nostalgia. But Kodi wouldn’t be getting any sympathy from this vampire.

It was still cute, though, how the new vampire was trying to be intimidating, baring his fangs and hovering close to his human as if he could protect it from Finn or Jackson should they choose to enjoy a sample. He was still intrigued by the level of respect the youngling was trying to show the two older vampires. It was silly, that he would try to curry such favor with them by bowing and scraping, but amusing still. Jackson giggled on the topic of the silver knife. “If you bring that in, you really will be eaten, beaten, and sucked dry,” he pointed out. “Even if you somehow managed to stick that into one or two of use,” he started. Though just one or two stabs wasn’t enough to kill even the weakest of vampires…maybe the weakest. “The rest would be over you in an instant, and you can look forward to a looooooong, glorious session of torture and pain meant just for you.” And most likely performed by none other than Master Rue himself. Jackson looked forward to sitting in on that for his own viewing pleasure.

Loooooool, this guy really was a comedian!! Just lookit him bowing his head to something like Jackson, who wasn’t even near as impressive as either Finn or Rue. What was this kid trying to do, kill him with laughter? Well, it was working…well, not really because Jackson didn’t really need to breath anyway, but still…. “See what I mean, Finn? Hilarious!” Old and wise? What part? Hee hee hee…. While it did’t work quite like the young vampire Kodi had planned, Jackson was still amused and intrigued by this fledgeling enough to ‘take him under his wing’, so to speak. Jackson grinned something diabolically toothy in his excitement, then turned it back to Kodi. “Heeee… You’re mind now,” he declared, despite them still needing to ask Master Rue for those rights. He was sure to say yes, right?

Jackson blinked ‘innocently’ at Finn’s scowling as if to say “can’t I make a joke?”. Because Finn was always so serious and stiff, he needed to learn how to be more lighthearted. Have fun in his un-death. He was going to turn into one of those ugly, wrinkly vampires if he was scowling all the time. Still, Jackson said nothing more as they made their way into the coven house, hanging back to direct Kodi(and his human) inside while he followed in behind, pulling the heavy doors closed with his hands with as much ease as Finn had opened them with his mind.

Greedy, hungry eyes followed them as they walked through the corridors towards the Master’s chambers. Jackson shooed away some of the younger, more wild vampires of the coven when they stepped out with mouths literally drooling over the scent of this brand new human. Not that Jackson cared what happened to the human bag of blood, but it was best to not cause a scene and make a mess before bringing them to Master Rue and letting him decide what to do with them, is all.

[Deleted]

Kodi gritted his teeth as both of the vampires shot down his attempt to gain some sympathy from them. Well, what had he expected, really? “I… I suppose it was different for you two,” he finally said quietly, his eyes downcast and stubborn. “I, personally, didn’t enjoy being tormented and starving with bloodlust no matter how much I ate. I hardly have any memories of that time other than the pain.” He’d nearly been driven mad, and would have completely if Gryphon hadn’t found him.

He hated speaking for Gryph, but Kodi really didn’t trust him to say the right thing right now. He understood the human’s feelings – felt them himself, due to the imprint – but all he was worried about was keeping them both safe. That was his top priority; pride could come later. It worried him that Gryphon was refusing to give up the weapon he obviously couldn’t go inside with, and was even more worried at Jackson’s thread. “I’m going to have to be your defense now,” he murmured, desperation in his voice. “I’d rather take that knife myself a thousand times before I let them torture you over it.” He would refuse to go in until his lover obeyed. He really, really didn’t want to use the imprint to make it happen. That was a sort of powerplay that would ruin trust and only be used as a very last resort.

And… He hoped he knew what he was getting into, scraping up to this Jackson kid. Based on the amusement between the two vampires, he was already wondering if he was going to regret it. Still, Kodi remained calm and impassive as the younger of the two laughed. “I look forward to learning from you, then. Both of you,” he added, since it seemed the two were close and he didn’t doubt he would see both of them again. Anything to get Gryphon just a little bit more protection… Kodi nuzzled his human again and kissed his neck, trying to send soothing emotions his way.

And then… Then they were going inside. Kodi wrapped his arm even tighter around Gryph, if that was possible by this point, and kept him right in his embrace as they began the descent into the darkness. The appearance of all the younger vampires was enough to make even him nervous, but he tried to hide it and continue to comfort his human lover. “I’m sure there are other imprinted humans in here, just wait and see,” he murmured. “They have to be respected by coven rule. No one would dare touch you as long as you’re mine, and you will always be mine.” Oh, how he hoped he was right.

Master Rue… Even his name was intimidating. The further they went in, the deeper the chill went into Kodi’s bones, signifying that they must be getting closer to the most powerful being in the coven. There were so many younger vampires in these halls, Kodi had no reason to think why they might be turned away. “So, ah… Are you two the oldest vampires in the coven besides your…. Master Rue?” he asked curiously, trying to make some conversation to blanket the unsettling cavern sounds.

They would find Master Rue in his personal chamber, having just finished an amusing hour with one of his favorite females. He could sense the four arriving near his location, but made no move to shift from where he lay undressed on his bed in the dark except for the rough pelt blanket tossed over his loins and the smirk dressing his lips. He’d sent the woman away not too long before, and he was still basking in the afterglow of his session. The shadows seemed to dance around him in here, and not in line with the few dim lanterns that he had placed in the corners of the large, mostly empty room.

[Gryphon Matsuoka]

Finn rolled his eyes as Jackson retold the story of when he was turned. It was one the older vampire had heard numerous times and didn't need to hear again, even if it was just for the sake of messing with a silly baby vampire. It was boring. It chilled Gryphon a bit, for obvious reason, but he didn't expect to be touched, considering what Kodi had said. Imprinted couldn't be touched, right? Finn sighed, "Oh, boohoo," He said unsympathetically. The pain was to evolve you to become more tolerant to pain and injury, along with other things, this kid shouldn't have been complaining about it like a self-important wimp.

Finn remained out of the conversation about the knife. He had given his... 'advice' and Jackson had detailed the consequences of not listening. Whether the human would be too stubborn to change his own mind was up to him. Gryph, himself, didn't like hearing what he had heard from Jackson, so he tried to refuse to believe it, only regarding his words for a moment with a weighted breath. He listened to Kodi in annoyance. Be his defense? "You won't always be able to protect me, you know that." He said, seething a little. Kodi seemed adamant, but Gryphon was too. He had no other way of keeping himself protected, besides Kodi, and Kodi wouldn't always be around to 'save' him. He stared his lover down for a noticeable while, and Finn was about to interrupt their little lover's tiff when something thudded on the ground. The knife. Gryphon said nothing.

"He really is." Finn agreed monotonously. The baby vampire really didn't realise he was wasting his time. Of course, he knew Jackson would be somewhat capable of teaching techniques, but Finn had a feeling he would just use the time to mess the inexperienced vampire about until he began acting like his personal slave or something - which wouldn't be difficult, considering his current submissive behaviour. He didn't bring up the fact that Jackson would need Rue's confirmation to take this Kodi under his wing - he was sure his friend remembered - and Gryphon continued to remain silent. Not obediently - angrily.

What made Finn laugh properly was - "Both of us?" He snorted, "I don't think Jackson would want to share. He's not good at taking care of his possessions when I'm around." He smirked to himself. Unless Rue requested it, Finn wouldn't get involved with this Kodi, except to play with him. Mmm... he seemed like a fun type of vampire to tease.

Gryph squirmed as he felt Kodi's affection, not wanting to feel it because he knew it would soften him up (and make him even more terrified and vulnerable). He, otherwise, didn't react.

...okay, maybe he did. No, Gryph had a terrible feeling, all these eyes, lips being licked in anticipation, no, no... he felt his earlier annoyance and anger being easily replaced with painful, paralysing nerves and fear and... Gryphon took a few deep breaths. He vaguely caught what Kodi had said and nodded, "...always yours." He repeated softly, "...I..." He almost said that he was scared, but he was sure Kodi could feel it, and he was quite certain most of the demons in the surrounding vicinity could sense it. His suspicions were confirmed by the vampire named Finn, "Kodi, please calm your human down. Jackson and I can do as much as we want to keep him safe for you, but he's smelling incredibly sweet and tempting right now." It wasn't said with sympathy. Gryphon did his best to try and regain his composure.

Finn nodded, "Yes, we are. In age here, there are many babies, like yourself, a few older, even fewer older than that, then Jackson, myself and then," He found that they were at their leader's quarters and smirked at his own timing, signalling towards the double doors, "Master Rue. He is many years older than us, though." And with that, he knocked before pushing the doors open carefully, regarding their leader respectfully as they entered, despite his lack of clothing. One sniff of the room and he could tell what Rue had been doing. He smiled, "Hello, sir," He said, before pointing out the two newbies following, "Kodiak Oubre and his human. He is asking for a place in our coven." Just to make their intentions clear.

Gryphon regarded the man in the bed carefully, completely forgetting/disregarding what he had been told earlier and staring right at him. Even as a human, he could feel that strong aura coming off of him. It automatically had him hiding partially behind Kodi, as much as he tried to diminish the fear and worry in his manner. He didn't seem... too... terrible... He swallowed, wanting to snark, but holding it in. Barely. Heh, yeah, maybe this guy was just way too self-important.

...that was definitely it.

[Deleted]

It wasn’t that Jackson enjoyed being hungry, it’s just that he didn’t let it drive him mad instantly, like it did to so many newborn vampires. And Jackson rather preferred this life(death?) anyway, so what did it matter? It was a lot better than being a weakling human.

Like this particular human(Jackson hadn’t memorized his name either), who was just soo pathetic, clinging to that dingy little knife like it was going to save him from…well, anything. Not here it wouldn’t. He rolled his eyes and released a noise of impatience when Kodi started trying to convince his human to give it up willingly. Fehh, why’d they have to wait for this stupid human to make up his mind anyway? The baby vampire coddled his human far too much. When the knife finally fell to the ground, Jackson sighed one of relief. “Finally!” he griped.

First lesson for his underling, pending Rue’s approval, was to learn how to control your worthless human. Jackson was still uncertain that these two had the connection of an imprint, but either way, he was going to iterate to Kodi the millions(maybe not millions) of different ways one could use the imprint to his advantage, even…feh, even ways he could help his silly human, if he so desired, though Jackson couldn’t fathom why any vampire would want to do that. “Hey, I can so” he protested to Finn, disgruntled at the assumption that he’d mess it up, somehow. Though Finn wasn’t wrong.

As the other three headed through the doors of the coven, Jackson headed back to the fallen knife. It’d do no good to just leave that thing lying around, he thought. So Jackson removed his jacket and wrapped it around the fallen silver knife, ensuring that all edges were unexposed, then held it securely under his arm. They couldn’t just leave it lying around, now could they? Some of the other vampires crowding that hallway could probably sense the silver of the knife, though, and it made them just a little bit more antsy. Jackson hissed at one of them who tried to get too close.

Hmph….of course they were the eldest(save for Master Rue), couldn’t they tell? “Hmph….of course we are,” he mumbled, scoffing after Finn already gave the answer. “You really think these peons would give any respect to a bratty-looking face like this if I weren’t?” Clearly, one shouldn’t judge based on appearances, especially in Jackson’s case. Though that didn’t mean he wouldn’t use it to his advantage.

Once arrived at their Master’s quarters, Jackson spent no time in dashing up to his beloved Master and crawling on the bed next to him. “Master Rue!” he greeted excitedly, a bright smile on his face. “I brought you this!” Jackson took the bundled jacket from under his arm and held it out to him. “Careful you don’t touch it, it’s sharp!” Among other things. He looked back to the young vampire and his human. “Oh, yeah, they’re here too,” he said as if he’d nearly forgotten. “Kodiak is funny, can I keep him?” he asked, completely disregarding the human. Oh, he hoped Master Rue would say yes!

[Deleted]

Kodi could feel Gryph’s annoyance and frustration over the knife, and winced slightly. He hated making him upset, even if it was for his own good. “I can protect you more than one knife…” he mumbled, almost dejectedly. But then again, they were both helpless against these two vampires, let alone their leader, so what was the point anyway? “Thank you,” he breathed in relief when the knife finally dropped. He squeezed Gryph’s waist and nuzzled his shoulder.

He smiled humorlessly as the two spoke about helping him with his… Vampire-ness. Or rather, Jackson helping him and Finn staying out of it. “Whatever works for both of you,” he replied, still trying to keep showing respect for both of them. It would be stupid to make enemies after vampires that powerful, after all.

The fear Gryphon was giving off was nearly overwhelming enough to really affect Kodi himself, and it took all of his effort to muster up some courage and try to fill Gryph with as much of it as he could. “We’re fine, there’s nothing they can do to us like this, we haven’t done anything wrong. Most of them are young anyway, there’s no way they’d be allowed to even try and attack.” He hoped that was comforting. Kodi didn’t particularly feel all that comforted. He shot a glance at Finn when he spoke, and said nothing, only gave a short nod. His brows were slightly furrowed. Gryphon did smell awfully sweet… The young vampire licked his lips.

He shook his head to snap himself out of it, and nodded in understanding when his question was answered. “I see,” Kodi said thoughtfully. “How large is the coven?” He really was curious, although he also wanted to be aware of just… How many vampires they were surrounded by. Kodi smirked a little at Jackson when he mentioned his ‘bratty-looking’ face. “You must have been young when you turned?” he mused. “I’d say that’s better than looking eternally old.” Yup, sucking up.

When he caught sight of Rue though…. Damn.

It wasn’t that he looked terribly cruel or scary or intimidating. In fact, he was pretty handsome, and a lazy smile played about his lips. The smile set him on edge, though. It was the sort of smile one might imagine a cat wearing while it played with a mouse it intended on killing. He nodded at Finn before focusing his attention on the new pair. At least, momentarily. Jackson was on his bed within seconds, and Rue let out a chuckle (it sent chills down Kodi’s spine). “Did you bring in a toy?” he asked with a crooked smile. Without a hint of fear or hesitation, Rue unwrapped the weapon and studied it before wrapping it back up again and setting it on a table nearby. “I will take care of it. Thank you, pet.” His smile widened and Rue took the back of Jackson’s neck in his hand, pulling him into a lazy, dominating kiss. He let go a few moments later to address the two newcomers.

“You just met him and you want to keep him already?” he asked, still smiling faintly. Rue’s eyes moved between Kodi and Gryph, unimpressed. One was a baby, and the other was no threat in the least, even if he’d been a hunter. “If that is what you wish. They can stay in the coven, as long as they obey our rules. I’m sure Kodiak knows what that entails.” He stared the young vampire down until Kodi shifted uncomfortably under his gaze. “Finn, I’ll leave it to you to show them to an empty bedchamber. You can show them around too, if you wish. I trust you to take care of them until they feel… Comfortable.” His grin turned into something a little more sinister. Kodi wasn’t quite sure how he felt about this guy…

[Finn Eogeum]

Right now, Gryphon was not happy or impressed. From the older vampires' impatience to Kodi's reasoning, he was not glad to be in this situation, and he didn't like watching his knife being taken away by that creepy kid of a fanged beast. He scowled at anyone he caught eyes with at this time, which included Kodi. He didn't really respond to the affectionate touches, as a result of this.

Gryph didn't like how much Kodi was trying to suck up to these vampires, because it was nothing like he usually was, and Finn couldn't be bothered with the baby. Unless Rue told him specifically to look after these two pests, he would probably not get any more involved with them than anyone else that joined the coven.

The ex-hunter couldn't help being terrified, and Kodi's words, sadly, didn't help. Just because they wouldn't be allowed to attack doesn't mean they might not attempt it, or just lose their sense enough to forget to stop themselves. He tried to keep his breathing steady and he swallowed. He would get used to this at some point. Probably. Finn's warning also did nothing to help, and if anything, it just made him more aware of the situation he was in. If he wasn't afraid of embarrassing himself and seeming even more helpless, he would probably be running outside by now.

Finn tilted his head a bit from side to side as he thought about an answer, and then shrugged, "Let's just say you've only seen a fraction of the coven's people." It wasn't a small, weak place, this one. No, they were this big and this strong for a reason. Finn rolled his eyes at the conversing Kodi was attempting at. Gryphon just remained quiet for now, worried he would sound too shaky if he said a word.

He didn't even say anything as he slowly studied the coven leader when they were met with him. His mind was screaming to tell him to look away and be respectful, because the age and power coming off of Rue could even be told by him, and it was frightening... but there felt like there was a hint of something else here. The way the shadows moved... his brow furrowed. That was why Gryphon felt more on edge. He could tell something was off... could anyone else? He looked at Kodi momentarily, with a slightly confused expression. Maybe he would understand why he was confused, or maybe his confusion would confuse him too. Gryph didn't know.

Finn watched Jackson bound up like the clingy, attention-seeking leech he was and he sighed in annoyance, slumping slightly. He knew, and he knew Jackson knew, that Rue's behaviour had changed a little, but he put it down to the power. People with authority usually acted more daunting. He stood off to the side with his arms folded, not commenting on the whole little conversation they were having. He didn't even flinch as they began kissing, but Gryph looked away awkwardly, reaching for Kodi's hand and intertwining their fingers. He wanted to go, but they couldn't just leave.

The second eldest in the room chuckled a bit to himself at Rue's question. He had been thinking much the same thing not that long ago, that it seemed stupid that Jackson was already showing so much interest in the pair they all knew hardly anything about, other than what they could sense, but he would have been surprised if Rue said no. Finn glanced up as he was addressed and listened to his instructions before nodding slowly and smiling quite fiendishly himself, "Of course, sir," He said, before turning to the pair and motioning for them to walk. Once they were outside of the room with the doors closed, Finn paused momentarily, before turning around, "You're lucky I'm in a good mood." He said, mainly to Kodi. "Do you want to be shown around?" How nice of him.

Gryphon's mind was still bubbling away. What was going on with this Master Rue...