"Oh dear. The ability to talk to ants?" Aishe paused as she picked up her spoon, leaving it suspended over her dinner. "Is such a thing even possible?"
She hadn't considered that... and although the idea of any sort of communication was intriguing, what possible information could an ant have? Aishe pondered it for a few moments, for the sake of pure speculation, and finally decided that ants might actually have tons of useful tidbits, but not necessarily the means by which to deliver it. Would it matter? Was she just overthinking it?
In spite of Chris's earlier gentle reproof to not ask for something purely because it was useful, she found herself hoping, now that he'd broached the topic, that whatever ability she wound up with did turn out to be something she could be comfortable with, even if it wasn't readily of use.
As she mulled it all over, she was brought back by Chris' assessment of dinner. Flushing slightly, she quickly explained her hesitance.
"I'm sure it is," she said, returning his smile with her own soft one. "Old habit. My family always waits for everyone to sit down, and for the cook to take the first bite. I'm not sure if there's a reason behind it, but it's tradition for us."
Digging in herself, Aishe savored the flavors, chewing slowly before swallowing and giving an enthusiastic nod. "Not only safe, but exceptional. You didn't tell me you were a chef in a former life."
A new you retreat (attn:Aishe) (private)
Christian looked around the cabin with a critical eye. It was comfortable, clean and most importantly, quiet. They were within Nachton's city limits; he did not want to go too far away at this time, but this setting was perfect for their needs.
The cabin was on a nature park on the city's edge. It was some of the last wild land in the area and some of the more environmentally conscious individuals fought to have it preserved. Right now he was grateful for their tree loving ferocity.
There were not very many cabins on the land. The visitor area here did not cater to the weekend warrior and his friends renting cabins and 'roughing' it while drinking beer and fishing on the lake. The rental places here were designed for luxury. Each one was well set away from the others with huge porches, a hot tub, large fireplace with a plush rug and several floor cushions in front of it. There was a stocked mini bar and he had called ahead to have the kitchen stocked with fresh food.
The phones were unplugged, though his cellphone and pager were both with him and on silent mode. There was both a radio and television but neither of these things were likely to unexpectedly go off
Turning was a difficult transition to make on the body and on the mind at its best; for some it had been painful and traumatic. He had been very lucky to have a creator like Grisha and Christian hoped to do the same for Aishe.
Aishe
18 years ago
Christian Bern
18 years ago
Christian pondered the ant population for a moment and shrugged.
“I have never heard of such a thing happening with insects personally so I am not sure. I should ask Grisha and see if he knows the answer.”
He speared another piece of meat and added some vegetable before looking up again.
“Perhaps it was,if someone in your family had been in the military in the past. My own family waited for my father to eat first but in the army camps we waited on the cook. You never know what could be done to your food if you don't make it yourself but at least if the cook is willing to eat it then it is probably safe.”
Munching thoughtfully, he swallowed and then said.
“Of course you family might not have been as paranoid as all that.”
Christian harumphed in disbelief at Aishe's statement but gave her a smile anyway.
“A soldier that doesn't want to starve some time in his career will learn to heat things up”
Frowning at a sudden consideration, he paused his eating for a moment.
“We might be here for a little while if you have difficulty adjusting to your change and your abilities. Your bonded boyfriend is probably going to notice something is bothering you at the very least. If he comes looking, should I let him in?”
He figured he better ask now while she was sensible about the whole thing. Who knows what state of mind she will be in later or even if she would be in any state to communicate at all? If she had some plan to present herself as a healthy vampire and member of Evenhet to him then she might not want him seeing her having difficulty with the change. There was normally at least something that took getting used to at the very least and at the worst a new vampire could be near insane with sensory overload until they knew what to do with it.
“I have never heard of such a thing happening with insects personally so I am not sure. I should ask Grisha and see if he knows the answer.”
He speared another piece of meat and added some vegetable before looking up again.
“Perhaps it was,if someone in your family had been in the military in the past. My own family waited for my father to eat first but in the army camps we waited on the cook. You never know what could be done to your food if you don't make it yourself but at least if the cook is willing to eat it then it is probably safe.”
Munching thoughtfully, he swallowed and then said.
“Of course you family might not have been as paranoid as all that.”
Christian harumphed in disbelief at Aishe's statement but gave her a smile anyway.
“A soldier that doesn't want to starve some time in his career will learn to heat things up”
Frowning at a sudden consideration, he paused his eating for a moment.
“We might be here for a little while if you have difficulty adjusting to your change and your abilities. Your bonded boyfriend is probably going to notice something is bothering you at the very least. If he comes looking, should I let him in?”
He figured he better ask now while she was sensible about the whole thing. Who knows what state of mind she will be in later or even if she would be in any state to communicate at all? If she had some plan to present herself as a healthy vampire and member of Evenhet to him then she might not want him seeing her having difficulty with the change. There was normally at least something that took getting used to at the very least and at the worst a new vampire could be near insane with sensory overload until they knew what to do with it.
Aishe
18 years ago
Aishe wouldn't consider herself afraid of insects, but the idea of hearing them scritching and scrabbling about in her head day in and day out didn't exactly appeal. Considering how remote the possibility was, however, given the numbers of abilities vampires seemed to have, she figured she would be all right and any worry on that score would be pointless.
She abandoned that train of thought in favor of the idea that her family's mealtime traditions might be born of some kind of paranoia over poisoned food. She nodded thoughtfully. "No, I'm sure that must have something to do with it. All tradition must have some basis in ritual and practicality somewhere. I think now it's more a sign of respect, that the cook who did all the work should be the first to enjoy the results."
The idea that Chris was merely 'heating things up' when he cooked made her smile, but if he wanted to be modest about it that was fine with her. Aishe would simply suit actions to words, and showed her appreciation for the excellent cooking by finishing every bit on her plate. With cooking like that she was pretty sure no one around the man would have been in any danger of starving, although she was well aware that battlefield conditions didn't lend themselves well to any form of culinary excellence, or even abundance.
Aishe had considered that Kem would notice something was happening to her before, and if and when she spoke to him before her turning, she would tell him where to find her. Aishe did feel a little guilty over it, knowing that at least at first Kem would probably do everything he could to prevent her turning.
It all sounded so bad to her, when she distanced herself... the idea that she should talk it through with him first, let him know, have him be with her every step of the way... that was what Aishe truly would have wanted. Things never worked out as planned however, and so she nodded at Chris.
"Yes, by all means, please. He should have been a part of this from the start. I don't know how he'll react at first, but I think he'll come around to the idea quickly enough."
Quickly enough considering that even though he might deny it for the next five thousand years, she was well aware that in the subconscious of his mind, he wanted this as much as she did. Never to have to watch her grow old, never to watch her die while he remained.
Aishe herself was fairly glowing with excitement and anticipation. Kem's opposite, she embraced changes and didn't mind in the least when her situation was altered. She was well aware of the negative aspects of living forever, but the scholar in her was bouncing up and down at the idea of witnessing history firsthand through the ages.
She abandoned that train of thought in favor of the idea that her family's mealtime traditions might be born of some kind of paranoia over poisoned food. She nodded thoughtfully. "No, I'm sure that must have something to do with it. All tradition must have some basis in ritual and practicality somewhere. I think now it's more a sign of respect, that the cook who did all the work should be the first to enjoy the results."
The idea that Chris was merely 'heating things up' when he cooked made her smile, but if he wanted to be modest about it that was fine with her. Aishe would simply suit actions to words, and showed her appreciation for the excellent cooking by finishing every bit on her plate. With cooking like that she was pretty sure no one around the man would have been in any danger of starving, although she was well aware that battlefield conditions didn't lend themselves well to any form of culinary excellence, or even abundance.
Aishe had considered that Kem would notice something was happening to her before, and if and when she spoke to him before her turning, she would tell him where to find her. Aishe did feel a little guilty over it, knowing that at least at first Kem would probably do everything he could to prevent her turning.
It all sounded so bad to her, when she distanced herself... the idea that she should talk it through with him first, let him know, have him be with her every step of the way... that was what Aishe truly would have wanted. Things never worked out as planned however, and so she nodded at Chris.
"Yes, by all means, please. He should have been a part of this from the start. I don't know how he'll react at first, but I think he'll come around to the idea quickly enough."
Quickly enough considering that even though he might deny it for the next five thousand years, she was well aware that in the subconscious of his mind, he wanted this as much as she did. Never to have to watch her grow old, never to watch her die while he remained.
Aishe herself was fairly glowing with excitement and anticipation. Kem's opposite, she embraced changes and didn't mind in the least when her situation was altered. She was well aware of the negative aspects of living forever, but the scholar in her was bouncing up and down at the idea of witnessing history firsthand through the ages.
Christian Bern
18 years ago
Christian made good work on finishing the portion of food on his plate while Aishe was considering his question. He was never a hearty eater even as a human and so he had only served himself a small portion. Little Crispin had been a small child from a rural family that had difficulty making certain that everyone was fed. There were a few lean winters in his memory. His army life was much the same, by the time he could have chosen to eat to excess if that was his wish, Christian had grown accustomed to eating light.
He nodded at her decision though inside he wondered just how well the Egyptian was going to take the news. Would he suddenly find a crazed older vampire on his front step while dealing with a new vampire in potentially no shape to help?
Considering his options for a moment, he decided that there was a good chance that he could incapacitate Kem if need be. Hopefully the other man would understand that he was not harming Aishe... though he supposed that was a matter of opinion, but if not then it might come to 'making' him see reason. He realized a right hook to the Egyptian could land him in the middle of two vampires both angry with him. Catching himself checking for available weapons around the cabin, Christian focused purposefully on finishing the last of his meal instead.
"Well, sometimes you cannot wait around for peaceful negotiations. After all, it was doing him no harm. You were the one getting older."Â?
Picking up his plate, he placed it in the sink and began washing it off.
"Just so long as he doesn't come around soon and with heavy weaponry... I'd hate to have to hurt him."Â?
At this he turned and gave her a wink. It was comical even for his suspicious mind to imagine Kem showing up with a LAW rocket ready to take out the vampire who dared turn his girlfriend.
He nodded at her decision though inside he wondered just how well the Egyptian was going to take the news. Would he suddenly find a crazed older vampire on his front step while dealing with a new vampire in potentially no shape to help?
Considering his options for a moment, he decided that there was a good chance that he could incapacitate Kem if need be. Hopefully the other man would understand that he was not harming Aishe... though he supposed that was a matter of opinion, but if not then it might come to 'making' him see reason. He realized a right hook to the Egyptian could land him in the middle of two vampires both angry with him. Catching himself checking for available weapons around the cabin, Christian focused purposefully on finishing the last of his meal instead.
"Well, sometimes you cannot wait around for peaceful negotiations. After all, it was doing him no harm. You were the one getting older."Â?
Picking up his plate, he placed it in the sink and began washing it off.
"Just so long as he doesn't come around soon and with heavy weaponry... I'd hate to have to hurt him."Â?
At this he turned and gave her a wink. It was comical even for his suspicious mind to imagine Kem showing up with a LAW rocket ready to take out the vampire who dared turn his girlfriend.
Aishe
18 years ago
Aishe joined Chris at the sink to rinse off her own plate once she'd finished. She nodded at him agreeably.
"Peaceful negotiations. I like that phrase. So what is this, then... a pre-emptive strike?" Aishe had never been quite up to date on her wartime lingo. "Perhaps 'negotiating from a position of strength' would work best."
She tried to get a mental image of Kem with heavy weaponry... perhaps an ammo belt, a bandolier of bullets and his hands full of guns, Sly Stallone-style. It did nothing but make her laugh yet more. Chris, on the other hand, though smaller of stature... well, Aishe loved Kem more than anything but in that contest she'd have to bet on Chris. There was love, and there was financial solvency.
"I think you can take him," she said, grinning at Chris' wink.
The idea that she was getting older, too, added another dimension to her laughter. It was entirely too accurate, she realized. If she'd left these decisions up to Kem, even if he would have capitulated and turned her eventually, he never would have done so before she did, indeed, grow old. Perhaps that was a consequence of living so long - losing your sense of spontaneity. Hoping she didn't have too crafty a look on her face, Aishe decided she should work on that eventually. Of course, tonight would certainly be a good start.
Looking at the remains of the dishes in the kitchen, she rummaged quickly in the most likely spots and found what she was looking for with a triumphant little 'aha!' Holding out her prize, she waved it at Chris.
"Wash, or dry?"
She waved the dish towel happily again.
Aishe didn't know how Chris planned this night to progress. Then again, she thought, recalling her so recent speculation on spontaneity, maybe Chris didn't have it planned at all.
"Peaceful negotiations. I like that phrase. So what is this, then... a pre-emptive strike?" Aishe had never been quite up to date on her wartime lingo. "Perhaps 'negotiating from a position of strength' would work best."
She tried to get a mental image of Kem with heavy weaponry... perhaps an ammo belt, a bandolier of bullets and his hands full of guns, Sly Stallone-style. It did nothing but make her laugh yet more. Chris, on the other hand, though smaller of stature... well, Aishe loved Kem more than anything but in that contest she'd have to bet on Chris. There was love, and there was financial solvency.
"I think you can take him," she said, grinning at Chris' wink.
The idea that she was getting older, too, added another dimension to her laughter. It was entirely too accurate, she realized. If she'd left these decisions up to Kem, even if he would have capitulated and turned her eventually, he never would have done so before she did, indeed, grow old. Perhaps that was a consequence of living so long - losing your sense of spontaneity. Hoping she didn't have too crafty a look on her face, Aishe decided she should work on that eventually. Of course, tonight would certainly be a good start.
Looking at the remains of the dishes in the kitchen, she rummaged quickly in the most likely spots and found what she was looking for with a triumphant little 'aha!' Holding out her prize, she waved it at Chris.
"Wash, or dry?"
She waved the dish towel happily again.
Aishe didn't know how Chris planned this night to progress. Then again, she thought, recalling her so recent speculation on spontaneity, maybe Chris didn't have it planned at all.
Christian Bern
18 years ago
Christian chuckled at the idea of this being a preemptive strike despite that being at least a partial truth in the matter. He tended to see life's situations in terms of battle tactics a great deal of the time but there were occasions that it produced amusing results. You know you've gone too far when you consider the compromise on what movie you are going to see for the evening as a 'peace treaty'.
He smiled at her affirmation that he could take Kem in a fight. At least Aishe was not one of those people who thought their significant other was able to walk on water, perfect in every way. Realism in the midst of love was something he appreciated and continued to convince him that Aishe was a level headed individual.
Glancing at the towel she was waving, Christian considered the most efficient use of their talents versus the time it would take to do the dishes.
"Dry"Â?
It would take no knowledge of the cabin to wash but he could dry and put the dishes away faster than it would take him telling Aishe where things were located. With that said, he took the towel from her and dried his own dish and set it to the side so that hers could be added to it before he put them away.
He smiled at her affirmation that he could take Kem in a fight. At least Aishe was not one of those people who thought their significant other was able to walk on water, perfect in every way. Realism in the midst of love was something he appreciated and continued to convince him that Aishe was a level headed individual.
Glancing at the towel she was waving, Christian considered the most efficient use of their talents versus the time it would take to do the dishes.
"Dry"Â?
It would take no knowledge of the cabin to wash but he could dry and put the dishes away faster than it would take him telling Aishe where things were located. With that said, he took the towel from her and dried his own dish and set it to the side so that hers could be added to it before he put them away.
Aishe
18 years ago
"Dry it is," Aishe replied. It took her no time at all to fill the sink with hot, soapy water and begin to wash the plates as well as all the utensils that had gone into the making of the dinner. She happily plunged her hands in along with a sponge, after making sure her sleeves were out of the way. Aishe wasn't very easily grossed out... when one spent one's day digging through the muck for that one amazing artifact, one couldn't really afford to be prissy, after all.
Though she was tempted to hum, she didn't relish the idea of torturing the man who'd been so kind to her since their meeting. Aishe could certainly carry a tune... so long as no one minded the tune being carried in several keys. At once. Kem, with the patience of a saint, had told her with only the slightest of winces that it wasn't as terrible as she made out, but then again Kem couldn't lie his way out of a paper bag.
Instead she opted for quietly but determinedly scrubbing each dish, meticulous in her attention to detail until she realized she was most likely taking far longer to wash than it could possibly take Chris to dry and reshelve.
She held out a pot to him with a sheepish expression. "Force of habit," she said meekly. Too many hours spent in the lab going over every artifact with a toothbrush.
Truth be told, she was feeling somewhat jumpy and when she focused in on that she realized it wasn't her own emotion, but Kem's. It was far-off, if that made any sense, as if he were a ways from Nachton. That struck her as odd. Finishing up the dishes, she turned to Chris and told him what she was feeling. She had promised she would speak to Kem at some point before the night was over. Perhaps now was a good time for it.
Though she was tempted to hum, she didn't relish the idea of torturing the man who'd been so kind to her since their meeting. Aishe could certainly carry a tune... so long as no one minded the tune being carried in several keys. At once. Kem, with the patience of a saint, had told her with only the slightest of winces that it wasn't as terrible as she made out, but then again Kem couldn't lie his way out of a paper bag.
Instead she opted for quietly but determinedly scrubbing each dish, meticulous in her attention to detail until she realized she was most likely taking far longer to wash than it could possibly take Chris to dry and reshelve.
She held out a pot to him with a sheepish expression. "Force of habit," she said meekly. Too many hours spent in the lab going over every artifact with a toothbrush.
Truth be told, she was feeling somewhat jumpy and when she focused in on that she realized it wasn't her own emotion, but Kem's. It was far-off, if that made any sense, as if he were a ways from Nachton. That struck her as odd. Finishing up the dishes, she turned to Chris and told him what she was feeling. She had promised she would speak to Kem at some point before the night was over. Perhaps now was a good time for it.
Christian Bern
18 years ago
Christian silently went over various possibilities, both good and bad, for how things could turn out this evening. He hoped that Aishe would take well to whatever abilities manifested but that was a rare case. There almost always needed to be some time for adjustment. The question would be how hard on her would the change be. He hoped that he had prepared for the worst and that they would get something considerably better instead.
Looking over at the pot she handed him, he nodded absently. Christian looked over the dishes as he dried them but found that there were none that he needed to hand back to her to re-clean. This had allowed him to use the chore as a meditative exercise instead. It was quite nice to have someone who had perfectionist tendencies as well so that he did not have to spend time on being a director of the operation.
Aishe had become quiet as well and when she mentioned wanting to speak to Kem, he thought that was a wise idea. With all the dishes done, he removed himself from being in the way.
"I'll take a walk and give you time to talk."Â?
((OOC: Christian sort of out for now))
Looking over at the pot she handed him, he nodded absently. Christian looked over the dishes as he dried them but found that there were none that he needed to hand back to her to re-clean. This had allowed him to use the chore as a meditative exercise instead. It was quite nice to have someone who had perfectionist tendencies as well so that he did not have to spend time on being a director of the operation.
Aishe had become quiet as well and when she mentioned wanting to speak to Kem, he thought that was a wise idea. With all the dishes done, he removed himself from being in the way.
"I'll take a walk and give you time to talk."Â?
((OOC: Christian sort of out for now))
Aishe
18 years ago
Aishe smiled at Chris. "Thank you."
She rinsed her hands off, dried them and turned back to him with a deep breath. "I don't think it'll take too long. And... ah, hopefully I won't be saddling you with a panicking vampire charging to my rescue or anything like that."
She gave a little shrug. "Not if I handle my peaceful negotiations properly, anyway."
((ooc: Aishe out to Getting the Lines Uncrossed and back in after!))
When she came back downstairs, she didn't see Chris immediately. Aishe sat in the living room but didn't bother to turn a light on. The night was peaceful, the mood fairly serene, her own mindset expectant and tinted, perhaps, with anticipation.
Speaking with Kem had been a relief to her. She'd held herself away from him when she wanted most to go to him and see for herself that he was all right. Now she had a better idea. Better still, perhaps, when she saw him which would undoubtedly be fairly soon.
She curled her legs up beneath her and waited for Chris to return.
She rinsed her hands off, dried them and turned back to him with a deep breath. "I don't think it'll take too long. And... ah, hopefully I won't be saddling you with a panicking vampire charging to my rescue or anything like that."
She gave a little shrug. "Not if I handle my peaceful negotiations properly, anyway."
((ooc: Aishe out to Getting the Lines Uncrossed and back in after!))
When she came back downstairs, she didn't see Chris immediately. Aishe sat in the living room but didn't bother to turn a light on. The night was peaceful, the mood fairly serene, her own mindset expectant and tinted, perhaps, with anticipation.
Speaking with Kem had been a relief to her. She'd held herself away from him when she wanted most to go to him and see for herself that he was all right. Now she had a better idea. Better still, perhaps, when she saw him which would undoubtedly be fairly soon.
She curled her legs up beneath her and waited for Chris to return.
Christian Bern
18 years ago
Christian returned to the cabin to find Aishe sitting silently in the dark. Was she still speaking with Kem then? Her aura was too big of a mix for him to tell. It would seem that there was an underlying calm that suggested that something had been resolved but with all the emotions surrounding being turned and speaking to a boyfriend long absent, it was hard to tell.
“Knock knock.”
He stepped just inside the door and waited for an answer.
“Knock knock.”
He stepped just inside the door and waited for an answer.
Aishe
18 years ago
Aishe looked up as Chris entered. She hadn't actually had anything particular on her mind; she was merely enjoying the atmosphere. It was difficult to believe they weren't far from the heart of Nachton. The quiet of the cabin reminded her of her home outside of Nachton, where Kem had been when she'd spoken to him. It was hard not to think of her parents living there anymore, but she hadn't really expected them to stay around after she moved out. They'd come to the US to give their daughter the best life possible, and as far as Aishe was concerned they'd done more than their fair share of work raising her. She was glad they were happily back with their own families.
She smiled at the man who'd offered to be creator and teacher. This was her family now, and the thought was a pleasant one. Not just Chris, but all of Evenhet. She couldn't complain. You never knew what life would throw at you; she couldn't say for certain if she'd expected to be married with children by now. Aishe had tried not to form preconceived notions of her life. Even at a young age, she found that not having expectations at all helped her adjust more easily.
So, to Chris, she simply said, "Kem is on his way." Her voice was soft and calm. "He was at my old home when I spoke with him; apparently he had decided to look for me. I told him where we were; he should be here in a bit over an hour. I wasn't sure how to stall him otherwise, or if I even should. If you think it's necessary, I can try."
Aishe didn't know how long it took, or what Chris had planned. She didn't see a need to keep Kem away; nor could she concoct a good reason. She was willing to leave that decision up to Chris. His information on the subject of turning was, of course, far more in depth than her own.
She smiled at the man who'd offered to be creator and teacher. This was her family now, and the thought was a pleasant one. Not just Chris, but all of Evenhet. She couldn't complain. You never knew what life would throw at you; she couldn't say for certain if she'd expected to be married with children by now. Aishe had tried not to form preconceived notions of her life. Even at a young age, she found that not having expectations at all helped her adjust more easily.
So, to Chris, she simply said, "Kem is on his way." Her voice was soft and calm. "He was at my old home when I spoke with him; apparently he had decided to look for me. I told him where we were; he should be here in a bit over an hour. I wasn't sure how to stall him otherwise, or if I even should. If you think it's necessary, I can try."
Aishe didn't know how long it took, or what Chris had planned. She didn't see a need to keep Kem away; nor could she concoct a good reason. She was willing to leave that decision up to Chris. His information on the subject of turning was, of course, far more in depth than her own.
Christian Bern
18 years ago
Christian did not have to wait long for Aishe to respond. The mental conversation with Kem was probably over then. He came in and sat down on the couch to consider the rest of the situation.
The Egyptian would be here soon. It did not seem right to do things without him at this point. Originally Aishe felt that he was not ready to know or that he would try to stop her from this path. Now though they had spoken about it and if he intended to try to talk the woman out of the choice when he got here then Christian felt he should have that chance. Aishe wanted Kem in her life which meant that his opinion mattered. If he felt like trying to stop her against her wishes then he would -reason- with the man whatever manner became necessary.
It also occurred to him that Kem or Aishe might want Kem to do the turning. Vampires were sometimes an incestuous bunch; immortals turning their human lovers in order to have someone to share eternity with. It was quite common. However,they might wish not wish for that at all. An outsider doing the turning would psychologically put them on equal footing. Neither a creator of the other, nevermind Kem was ancient by comparison. Christian smiled at the thought, Aishe could hold her own with him as far as emotional maturity went. His kind tended to stagnate if left to their own devices; he had done as much himself. It took joining the clan and having a purpose within it to motivate him into being a part of the present.
"Then we can wait until he arrives. He can be here from the beginning. It would be better than him walking in on something potentially unpleasant or to be driving while you are being turned. He would most likely survive a crash but it would still hurt like the devil."Â?
He gave her a wink and then settled more comfortably back against the cushions.
"So he was more receptive than you thought. That is good. I take it that everything went well?"Â?
The Egyptian would be here soon. It did not seem right to do things without him at this point. Originally Aishe felt that he was not ready to know or that he would try to stop her from this path. Now though they had spoken about it and if he intended to try to talk the woman out of the choice when he got here then Christian felt he should have that chance. Aishe wanted Kem in her life which meant that his opinion mattered. If he felt like trying to stop her against her wishes then he would -reason- with the man whatever manner became necessary.
It also occurred to him that Kem or Aishe might want Kem to do the turning. Vampires were sometimes an incestuous bunch; immortals turning their human lovers in order to have someone to share eternity with. It was quite common. However,they might wish not wish for that at all. An outsider doing the turning would psychologically put them on equal footing. Neither a creator of the other, nevermind Kem was ancient by comparison. Christian smiled at the thought, Aishe could hold her own with him as far as emotional maturity went. His kind tended to stagnate if left to their own devices; he had done as much himself. It took joining the clan and having a purpose within it to motivate him into being a part of the present.
"Then we can wait until he arrives. He can be here from the beginning. It would be better than him walking in on something potentially unpleasant or to be driving while you are being turned. He would most likely survive a crash but it would still hurt like the devil."Â?
He gave her a wink and then settled more comfortably back against the cushions.
"So he was more receptive than you thought. That is good. I take it that everything went well?"Â?
Aishe
18 years ago
Aishe gave a small sigh. Chris was right; although she wasn't certain how much they were sharing over their bond at the moment anyhow, it wouldn't do to catch Kem completely off-guard while he was driving. But she still wasn't certain she'd gotten the point across.
"I don't know if I was clear enough," she said after a slight pause. "I thought I explained it, but perhaps it didn't sink in. How can we communicate on such a deep level and still have misunderstandings?"
She gave a dry little laugh. Aishe would love for Kem to be here with her, but she wasn't sure if he would want to, even if he were reconciled to what was going to happen that night. Her knowledge of his complete past was still spotty at best.
She looked at Chris after staring at the floor for a moment or two. "I'm not sure now," she said. "Maybe I should talk to him again. Unless you want to try."
She laced her fingers together, furrowing her brow. Why did she choke when it came to this one crucial point? It was important to her to do things properly for everyone involved, but Kem's feelings on the topic were a small mystery to her even with their bond. Which did she listen to? The feelings that said 'yes,' or the words that said 'no?'
"I don't know if I was clear enough," she said after a slight pause. "I thought I explained it, but perhaps it didn't sink in. How can we communicate on such a deep level and still have misunderstandings?"
She gave a dry little laugh. Aishe would love for Kem to be here with her, but she wasn't sure if he would want to, even if he were reconciled to what was going to happen that night. Her knowledge of his complete past was still spotty at best.
She looked at Chris after staring at the floor for a moment or two. "I'm not sure now," she said. "Maybe I should talk to him again. Unless you want to try."
She laced her fingers together, furrowing her brow. Why did she choke when it came to this one crucial point? It was important to her to do things properly for everyone involved, but Kem's feelings on the topic were a small mystery to her even with their bond. Which did she listen to? The feelings that said 'yes,' or the words that said 'no?'
Christian Bern
18 years ago
Christian wondered just what Aishe meant by not clear enough. She presumably told him that he and she were here and asked for him to come over. He would have hoped she told him what to expect. He now wondered just how much she left out while talking to Kem. Did the Egyptian think that he had designs on Aishe? It would be an easy assumption to make given the circumstances and the lack of contact.
Perhaps he should talk to Kem. Normally Aishe seemed very level headed but it would seem that love made fools of everyone from time to time. He should make sure Kem knew the facts and was okay with them; after all they would all still be in the same clan for a very very long time.
"All right."Â?
He sighed and closed his eyes in order to firmly picture the Egyptian in his mind.
[Kem?]
Christian waited a moment for Kem to overcome any startled reaction to being contacted telepathically but not long, Kem was as used to it as he was. Figuring it was best to cut to the chase and make it as clear as possible, he continued.
[I don't know what Aishe told you but she's intent on becoming a vampire in order to spend eternity with you. Or shall we say that is her hope. I believe though she has determined to do so no matter what the outcome. If you want a chance to talk her out of it then this is it. If you to take this role for yourself then let me know.]
He waited for the response to all that he had said. It was probably very easy to guess what the situation was so long as Kem didn't jump to a jealous conclusion. If he examined the bond between them then it would be easy to tell that Aishe was not in love with anyone else. From there the reasons for her behavior and their seclusion in this cabin should be clear enough; therefore it shouldn't have been a big shock. Hearing it finally spoken though, might have been another matter.
Perhaps he should talk to Kem. Normally Aishe seemed very level headed but it would seem that love made fools of everyone from time to time. He should make sure Kem knew the facts and was okay with them; after all they would all still be in the same clan for a very very long time.
"All right."Â?
He sighed and closed his eyes in order to firmly picture the Egyptian in his mind.
[Kem?]
Christian waited a moment for Kem to overcome any startled reaction to being contacted telepathically but not long, Kem was as used to it as he was. Figuring it was best to cut to the chase and make it as clear as possible, he continued.
[I don't know what Aishe told you but she's intent on becoming a vampire in order to spend eternity with you. Or shall we say that is her hope. I believe though she has determined to do so no matter what the outcome. If you want a chance to talk her out of it then this is it. If you to take this role for yourself then let me know.]
He waited for the response to all that he had said. It was probably very easy to guess what the situation was so long as Kem didn't jump to a jealous conclusion. If he examined the bond between them then it would be easy to tell that Aishe was not in love with anyone else. From there the reasons for her behavior and their seclusion in this cabin should be clear enough; therefore it shouldn't have been a big shock. Hearing it finally spoken though, might have been another matter.
Kem`Raaisu
18 years ago
Under any other circumstances Kem might have thought he was in a really bad drama. Right. Eternity. Heh.
It didn't surprise him to hear Chris' voice. Then again, he'd done nothing but think like crazy since speaking to Aishe before. Kem would be the first to admit he often had blinders on, but when push came to shove he could usually add two and two to come up with four.
Shortly after taking off at something resembling light speed, Aishe's words had percolated and he'd realized what she'd meant by her words to him. His first reaction had been to try to stop her, but a little voice had finally made itself heard and asked, "why?"
He really wasn't sure why he should anymore.
She obviously had it together, heads and tails over him. To the extent that Chris was willing to support her, and Kem respected Chris. If he would go so far as to turn her himself... Kem couldn't imagine Chris would allow something so rash or foolish, and therefore he himself must have given it enough thought.
His head was spinning, fortunately only in the figurative sense. Driving would have been difficult otherwise.
Take the role for himself? That idea chilled him. It was enough that Aishe was about to go through this. Perhaps it was better he not be present. Turning a human was the one thing that had never crossed Kem's mind in the past. Nor had it occurred to him to offer it to Aishe. He could certainly try to change other aspects of his life, but that was one thing he didn't think he'd ever want to see again.
[I won't try to talk her out of it, Chris. I'll... I'll do my best to help her. But no. I can't do that. Not even for her.]
It never crossed his mind to be angry, or upset. He barely registered happiness. He knew he ought to feel something, but damned if he could figure it out now. Kem reasoned his only choice was to roll with the punches now.
And it wouldn't do for him not to show his support, so in that vein he sent to Aishe as well. [Aishe... I'll be there as soon as I can.]
Maybe not what he'd really hoped to say, but all things in their time... for the moment he focused on staying on the road.
It didn't surprise him to hear Chris' voice. Then again, he'd done nothing but think like crazy since speaking to Aishe before. Kem would be the first to admit he often had blinders on, but when push came to shove he could usually add two and two to come up with four.
Shortly after taking off at something resembling light speed, Aishe's words had percolated and he'd realized what she'd meant by her words to him. His first reaction had been to try to stop her, but a little voice had finally made itself heard and asked, "why?"
He really wasn't sure why he should anymore.
She obviously had it together, heads and tails over him. To the extent that Chris was willing to support her, and Kem respected Chris. If he would go so far as to turn her himself... Kem couldn't imagine Chris would allow something so rash or foolish, and therefore he himself must have given it enough thought.
His head was spinning, fortunately only in the figurative sense. Driving would have been difficult otherwise.
Take the role for himself? That idea chilled him. It was enough that Aishe was about to go through this. Perhaps it was better he not be present. Turning a human was the one thing that had never crossed Kem's mind in the past. Nor had it occurred to him to offer it to Aishe. He could certainly try to change other aspects of his life, but that was one thing he didn't think he'd ever want to see again.
[I won't try to talk her out of it, Chris. I'll... I'll do my best to help her. But no. I can't do that. Not even for her.]
It never crossed his mind to be angry, or upset. He barely registered happiness. He knew he ought to feel something, but damned if he could figure it out now. Kem reasoned his only choice was to roll with the punches now.
And it wouldn't do for him not to show his support, so in that vein he sent to Aishe as well. [Aishe... I'll be there as soon as I can.]
Maybe not what he'd really hoped to say, but all things in their time... for the moment he focused on staying on the road.
Christian Bern
18 years ago
Christian sighed to himself; apparently he hadn't been plain either. He did not mind Kem coming after everything was done or being there from the beginning as moral support if that was their wish but what he did not want was an audience, especially one that will be showing up at some time in the near future in the middle of things.
He could turn her quickly, of course, but Christian balked at being rushed. It was not something naughty to have done with before anyone saw. It seemed as though he were being used, a means to an ends and that irritated him because he knew that was not the truth of it. He knew that and this was one of those many times were empathy helped him sort out the reality of the situation from how it appeared.
Suck it up and deal with the situation, Cris, tactics change.
It was better that she told Kem. Had he not suggested it? The man was going to know from the bond and really what had he expected to happen that the man would get the news and stay home? Well, not exactly, truthfully he had not thought it through to that conclusion. He either expected her to insist on not telling Kem until it was over and then dealing with him while Aishe was changing or for her to tell him and for him to not want to be involved until it was done so that he could say he was not responsible for the decision or the action.
So that was partly right, he just didn't count on being watched by the concerned love interest during a time when he needed to be focused on Aishe and Aishe needed... well, maybe she did need Kem but there was no real telling whether that would be more of a distracting hindrance or a helpful support to her. For all his well planned turning, he personally had not been in love with anyone and had considered it a blessing at the time. He had always figured that it made life, or unlife if one preferred, less complicated.
He stood up and walked over to the door and locked it. Plans could be altered. For all he knew things did not go exactly the way Grisha had wanted them to for his own. He should ask some time, perhaps he had been more difficult than expected with his questions and whims.
"Kem can knock. I'd hate to hurt you out of surprise."Â?
Christian felt pretty certain that Kem would have knocked anyway but knowing someone couldn't just walk in made him feel a bit more comfortable.
"He said he won't talk you out of it and while I am a visual empath. I would wager that he doesn't want to. So, are you ready?"Â?
He could turn her quickly, of course, but Christian balked at being rushed. It was not something naughty to have done with before anyone saw. It seemed as though he were being used, a means to an ends and that irritated him because he knew that was not the truth of it. He knew that and this was one of those many times were empathy helped him sort out the reality of the situation from how it appeared.
Suck it up and deal with the situation, Cris, tactics change.
It was better that she told Kem. Had he not suggested it? The man was going to know from the bond and really what had he expected to happen that the man would get the news and stay home? Well, not exactly, truthfully he had not thought it through to that conclusion. He either expected her to insist on not telling Kem until it was over and then dealing with him while Aishe was changing or for her to tell him and for him to not want to be involved until it was done so that he could say he was not responsible for the decision or the action.
So that was partly right, he just didn't count on being watched by the concerned love interest during a time when he needed to be focused on Aishe and Aishe needed... well, maybe she did need Kem but there was no real telling whether that would be more of a distracting hindrance or a helpful support to her. For all his well planned turning, he personally had not been in love with anyone and had considered it a blessing at the time. He had always figured that it made life, or unlife if one preferred, less complicated.
He stood up and walked over to the door and locked it. Plans could be altered. For all he knew things did not go exactly the way Grisha had wanted them to for his own. He should ask some time, perhaps he had been more difficult than expected with his questions and whims.
"Kem can knock. I'd hate to hurt you out of surprise."Â?
Christian felt pretty certain that Kem would have knocked anyway but knowing someone couldn't just walk in made him feel a bit more comfortable.
"He said he won't talk you out of it and while I am a visual empath. I would wager that he doesn't want to. So, are you ready?"Â?
Aishe
18 years ago
Aishe didn't respond to Kem verbally. She didn't know what exactly had gone between him and Chris. She was on uncertain footing, and was trusting Chris completely. Maybe that was a cop-out on her part, but she certainly couldn't know what was in store.
When Chris locked the door she nodded her solemn approval. She hadn't considered that Kem's arrival could be disturbing on more than one level. "I can ask him to come later," she offered. "He'll understand. You know best how this should work, and what will be best for both you and I."
She didn't want to take for granted that Chris had made her this offer. She recalled thinking that before, and her outlook hadn't changed at all.
"I love Kem, but we'll have the rest of our lives together." She wasn't sure how else to put it; she didn't know what turning was like for the one doing the turning any more than how it might be for herself. "If his staying away one night is the exchange for many more nights, I think he'll see the logic in it."
That said, however, she fidgeted hesitantly and then leaned forward, wrapping her arms around Chris' neck and hugging him tightly. "However it works out, whatever you think proper, thank you Chris. For making me a part of your family. Just in case I... forget to say it later." Or can't. Aishe was usually good at expressing herself, but at the moment she couldn't help feeling tongue-tied. Fortunate then, to have at one's side an empath who could most likely figure out that she meant it.
When Chris locked the door she nodded her solemn approval. She hadn't considered that Kem's arrival could be disturbing on more than one level. "I can ask him to come later," she offered. "He'll understand. You know best how this should work, and what will be best for both you and I."
She didn't want to take for granted that Chris had made her this offer. She recalled thinking that before, and her outlook hadn't changed at all.
"I love Kem, but we'll have the rest of our lives together." She wasn't sure how else to put it; she didn't know what turning was like for the one doing the turning any more than how it might be for herself. "If his staying away one night is the exchange for many more nights, I think he'll see the logic in it."
That said, however, she fidgeted hesitantly and then leaned forward, wrapping her arms around Chris' neck and hugging him tightly. "However it works out, whatever you think proper, thank you Chris. For making me a part of your family. Just in case I... forget to say it later." Or can't. Aishe was usually good at expressing herself, but at the moment she couldn't help feeling tongue-tied. Fortunate then, to have at one's side an empath who could most likely figure out that she meant it.
Christian Bern
18 years ago
Christian nodded but wondered how much understanding would be had. It was not that Kem was not an ordinarily calm and intelligent person; it was that his girlfriend that he had not seen in months was under going the most important change of her life while he stood by...and either watched or didn't. Personally, he could not -not- be involved if a loved one was making such a huge decision. He would have been right in the middle of it doing his best to make sure everything went perfectly.
But then he was the proactive sort. It was entirely possible, even probable, that Kem thought he was doing the right thing by not being there. Christian snorted to himself, perhaps he had more ego and thought that anything that did not include himself in a situation could not possibly be the right thing. Despite the humor at his own expense in such a reasoning, he knew that he would step aside the minute it became better for others if he did so. He left his mercenary group in large part for that very reason never to return.
"Honestly, Aishe, in this case you would know better than I would. If it would be better in your mind for him to be here then he should be. If you wish to continue on and do this yourself then we will continue."Â?
Her further statements suggested that she was ready to continue. They would have plenty of time with each other later. He could not help but think that doing this herself, as she had made this decision without Kem and said that she would stand by it whether he never entered her life again or not, was the best thing for her. Who knew what tomorrow brought? They could live happily together for many years, or maybe they wouldn't but she would always be able to claim this choice was her own and knowing that could be a benefit to both of them. It might help absolve the Egyptian of any guilt he might feel about the choice being made for him and for Aishe it would help her stand on her own as a vampire, as much an equal as a young woman could be to someone of Kem's age. She could never match the time and experience but at least she would not be his child, beholden to him for her immortality.
"...Oh"Â? [i] Christian found himself hugged and wondered how a person known for his observation could be caught off guard by sudden displays of affection. Hugging her back, he said
"You are most welcome but perhaps you shouldn't thank me yet. You might be cursing my name before it is all over."Â?
Taking off his tee shirt, Christian laid it on the couch and then knelt down on the lamb skin rug and waited for him to join her. This was not a normal delicate bite that was a simple feeding for a vampire. He would have to drain her nearly dry in order for his blood to overpower what was left of her own.
Reaching up a hand, he waited for Aishe to join him.
But then he was the proactive sort. It was entirely possible, even probable, that Kem thought he was doing the right thing by not being there. Christian snorted to himself, perhaps he had more ego and thought that anything that did not include himself in a situation could not possibly be the right thing. Despite the humor at his own expense in such a reasoning, he knew that he would step aside the minute it became better for others if he did so. He left his mercenary group in large part for that very reason never to return.
"Honestly, Aishe, in this case you would know better than I would. If it would be better in your mind for him to be here then he should be. If you wish to continue on and do this yourself then we will continue."Â?
Her further statements suggested that she was ready to continue. They would have plenty of time with each other later. He could not help but think that doing this herself, as she had made this decision without Kem and said that she would stand by it whether he never entered her life again or not, was the best thing for her. Who knew what tomorrow brought? They could live happily together for many years, or maybe they wouldn't but she would always be able to claim this choice was her own and knowing that could be a benefit to both of them. It might help absolve the Egyptian of any guilt he might feel about the choice being made for him and for Aishe it would help her stand on her own as a vampire, as much an equal as a young woman could be to someone of Kem's age. She could never match the time and experience but at least she would not be his child, beholden to him for her immortality.
"...Oh"Â? [i] Christian found himself hugged and wondered how a person known for his observation could be caught off guard by sudden displays of affection. Hugging her back, he said
"You are most welcome but perhaps you shouldn't thank me yet. You might be cursing my name before it is all over."Â?
Taking off his tee shirt, Christian laid it on the couch and then knelt down on the lamb skin rug and waited for him to join her. This was not a normal delicate bite that was a simple feeding for a vampire. He would have to drain her nearly dry in order for his blood to overpower what was left of her own.
Reaching up a hand, he waited for Aishe to join him.
Aishe
18 years ago
Aishe didn't need to be asked twice. She knew without fail that Kem's preference would be to not bear witness to her turning. And hers would be to not have him associate the event with his being present. It was difficult to explain. She wanted him there and didn't want him there... he wanted to be there and didn't want to be there. And in the end, after a brief head-to-head chat, he stood by his word and agreed to do it her way as she'd suspected he would.
Reluctant as she was to have him off by himself during this event, Kem firmly let her know that he would be bad company for anyone and wanted to 'be there in spirit' as it were. She found it gratifying to know he wasn't coloring the facts for her benefits; he would be as well as could be expected alone, and was more than willing to respect her wishes and wait until things had calmed some.
Aishe nodded to Chris when the brief communication had finished, and let him know what had passed. That was for the best, in her opinion. She could focus on the events at hand with her full attention.
Chris' words had an oddly humorous effect on her. He somehow made it sound as if she were going into labor... the irony being, of course, that at the end of the night there would be a new "parent" and a new "child" in Evenhet.
"I will do my best to restrain myself," she promised with a little grin. "After all, I will have eternity to curse you, as well."
Chris was waiting for her with his hand outheld, having shed his shirt. At first Aishe wondered about that but then it made sense. She nodded to herself and pulled her own shirt over her head; she had a ribbed tank top underneath. Her hand brushed her necklace as she brushed her hair away from her neck. She unclasped it and slipped it into Chris' hand as she accepted it.
"For luck," she said, sliding off the couch and joining him on the impossibly soft rug. "Just in case."
She wasn't sure if he'd understand the significance, but the necklace was quite possibly her most valued posession. It seemed only appropriate that Chris have it, for the time being. A part of her, a part of Kem, and perhaps after this night a part of him as well, it had been her talisman since arriving in Nachton.
Reluctant as she was to have him off by himself during this event, Kem firmly let her know that he would be bad company for anyone and wanted to 'be there in spirit' as it were. She found it gratifying to know he wasn't coloring the facts for her benefits; he would be as well as could be expected alone, and was more than willing to respect her wishes and wait until things had calmed some.
Aishe nodded to Chris when the brief communication had finished, and let him know what had passed. That was for the best, in her opinion. She could focus on the events at hand with her full attention.
Chris' words had an oddly humorous effect on her. He somehow made it sound as if she were going into labor... the irony being, of course, that at the end of the night there would be a new "parent" and a new "child" in Evenhet.
"I will do my best to restrain myself," she promised with a little grin. "After all, I will have eternity to curse you, as well."
Chris was waiting for her with his hand outheld, having shed his shirt. At first Aishe wondered about that but then it made sense. She nodded to herself and pulled her own shirt over her head; she had a ribbed tank top underneath. Her hand brushed her necklace as she brushed her hair away from her neck. She unclasped it and slipped it into Chris' hand as she accepted it.
"For luck," she said, sliding off the couch and joining him on the impossibly soft rug. "Just in case."
She wasn't sure if he'd understand the significance, but the necklace was quite possibly her most valued posession. It seemed only appropriate that Chris have it, for the time being. A part of her, a part of Kem, and perhaps after this night a part of him as well, it had been her talisman since arriving in Nachton.
Christian Bern
18 years ago
Christian pretended to look dismayed at the potential of being cursed for eternity by Aishe.
"I suppose I will risk it."Â?
He sighed heavily before smiling at her.
Looking down at the necklace, he was a bit surprised but did not question further. He would guess that it came from Kem though with the renewed popularity of the crux ansata she could have picked it up at the mall for all he really knew. It did not take a psychomatrist to know that it meant a lot to her and he doubted it would have gained that significance if it had been bought instead of given.
Christian slipped it silently around his neck and reached up to straighten it before looking up at Aishe again.
"I believe by some definitions I am beyond its aid."Â?
There was a large amount of irony in wearing a symbol of life before effectively causing someone's death to mortality. He was killing her choices, there would never be children or growing old, no natural death after a life well experienced. Those things were sacrificed, laid on the altar of hope and love. For her sake and Kem's, he hoped she was making the right decision.
"Thank you"Â?
He moved around until he was seated behind Aishe and wrapped his arms around her. Leaning down to feel the blood flowing just below the surface of warm skin with his lips, Christian traced along its pulsing path before pulling up ever so slightly.
"This is your last chance to say no."Â?
"I suppose I will risk it."Â?
He sighed heavily before smiling at her.
Looking down at the necklace, he was a bit surprised but did not question further. He would guess that it came from Kem though with the renewed popularity of the crux ansata she could have picked it up at the mall for all he really knew. It did not take a psychomatrist to know that it meant a lot to her and he doubted it would have gained that significance if it had been bought instead of given.
Christian slipped it silently around his neck and reached up to straighten it before looking up at Aishe again.
"I believe by some definitions I am beyond its aid."Â?
There was a large amount of irony in wearing a symbol of life before effectively causing someone's death to mortality. He was killing her choices, there would never be children or growing old, no natural death after a life well experienced. Those things were sacrificed, laid on the altar of hope and love. For her sake and Kem's, he hoped she was making the right decision.
"Thank you"Â?
He moved around until he was seated behind Aishe and wrapped his arms around her. Leaning down to feel the blood flowing just below the surface of warm skin with his lips, Christian traced along its pulsing path before pulling up ever so slightly.
"This is your last chance to say no."Â?