Hunting the Hounds (invitation only)

If he had had a bit more energy left in him, Thaddeus might have started at the sound of an unfamiliar voice. When had she come in? He pushed his eyes open with what he was certain was a disproportionately monumental effort, and tried to focus on the room and the new presence in it. There was, from what he could tell, a person-shaped form nearby that had certainly not been there a moment ago.

His first thought, when his eyes finally came into dim focus, was that the woman kneeling in front of Alfarinn was rather small, but he quickly dismissed his own skeptical response as incredibly rude. She did not seem to be particularly afraid, and it occurred to him that she probably -should- be, the situation being what it was.

She didn't appear to have noticed him in the time he had managed to hold his eyes open, though things were fairly out of focus and it was difficult to tell. She was watching Alfarinn closely, almost tentatively, her little hand on his knee and a look of concern on her face. The dim light in the room hurt his eyes and he closed them before he was able to register much else.

The connection between him and Alfarinn felt different somehow, more distant; sending thoughts felt like pushing through water, but he hoped he managed anyway.

[Alfarinn? I do believe your assistant is here, Love.]

That said, his sense of manners dictated that he offer some sort of greeting, but attempting speaking only triggered a rather painful coughing fit. He settled for lifting his free fingers an inch or two in what could signify a wave if one were very generous with such definitions.

Claire took in the sight of the room. She chided herself on her first impression, which was disdain at the pitiful surroundings. The armchair had certainly seen better days.

The wolf did not give her cause of concern for her own safety but she gave it a stern gaze for a moment as Dani moved to the couch. The animal, which appeared to have bird droppings all in its fur, looked rather forlorn anyway. It did explain the tufts of hair and a crow with a wing stretched out awkwardly would account for the black feathers...but not the white and not the amount of droppings on the poor canine.

She then turned her attention to Dani and the two people on the couch. They looked young but she recognized one as Alfarinn though he was decidedly much worse for wear at the moment. The other one, she did not recognize at all but he appeared the same age as his companion physically, which didn't mean a thing.

The one she did not recognize opened his eyes and looked down at Dani but seemed to have not noticed her. They appeared very sweet sitting together despite their injuries but Claire decided that she would wait longer before offering an opinion or aid. Despite their wounds neither of them were likely to die soon, with the assumption they were both vampires, but they would both need blood. She might aid in that but not until she knew who's ashes were out on the pavement.

Alfarinn may be an wonderful leader with excellent ideals but she would not aid a Anantya murderer willingly.

Alfarinn's mind wandered through a foggy like dream state that he was having difficulty fighting off. He needed to stay with Thaddeus, He couldn't leave him, not now.

'Put your heart into it, Alfarinn. I know you've got the skills.' Ida's voice came to him from what seemed like a long distance away. He searched through the mist and haze for him.

'Ida?' He frowned thoughtfully. Ida shouldn't be here and where was Thaddeus?

'Do you love him? Then fight harder!' The voice from the past was saying familiar words and Alfarinn remembered a similar conversation so many many years ago about putting his all into battle.

'I am!' A note of petulance crept into Alfarinn's voice. How did Ida always manage to make him feel like a kid when he was the one that was older? Was he not watching from where ever he was? There were wolves, lots of wolves perhaps he should mention that to his judgemental friend.

Thaddeus

[Alfarinn? I do believe your assistant is here, Love.]

Somewhere in the fog, he could feel Ida smile. 'Go to him already'

Alfarinn looked down and blushed in the dream state.. That was what Ida meant by fighting. He forgot he was supposed to be trying to stay conscious.

'I am' He repeated with a final snort and a grin.

It seemed to take forever to actually accomplish opening his eyes but eventually he drug himself up and out of the beginnings of stasis to look at Dani.

He decided that saying something would be a wise choice though his throat cautioned him that it better not be much. Alfarinn settled for a half smile.

"Hi"


[Thank you, Beloved. Sorry to nod off on you. I'm back now.]

Thaddeus allowed for an internal smile at Alfarinn's presence, though he had no idea if it had actually reached his features.

[I've been in and out myself. It's good to have you back.]

The sound of Alfarinn's voice, even distorted as it was by injury, was a relief to hear, and he managed to once again pry his eyes open, hoping his companion's would be as well. This time he was sure the smile showed. Even so, he suddenly felt slightly awkward, sitting on the couch looking an absolute mess and knowing the true purpose for this woman's coming. In an attempt to avoid the appearance of staring, he lifted his head a little and let it drop in a new position on the couch.

This, however, did nothing for his comfort level, as he found himself regarding a second woman. He raised both eyebrows, slightly unnerved to be so vulnerable in front of yet another complete stranger, and wondered if she had been expected. A more primal part of himself, the part that was bleeding and hungry and needing, was curious in a quite different way, but Thaddeus kept that well in check and kept himself on guard.

[It seems your assistant has brought a friend.]

The second woman had not yet made her way fully into the room, and Thaddeus took in the dark hair and eyes, the unusual outfit that seemed to be something of a trend at the House of Pain, the poised demeanor. She seemed to be the most dignified of them all, and Thaddeus found something comforting about that normalcy even as it made him feel self-conscious.

Danielle sighed in relief when Arin opened his eyes; he had been so very -still-, and while she could understand on an intellectual level that vampires simply worked differently from humans, it was hard to really internalize sometimes. Arin, who was already perpetually cold anyway, seemed even cooler to the touch than usual, more pale and translucent, though she supposed that could be her imagination.

"You're going to be alright. Don't try to talk anymore, okay?"Â?

He needed blood badly, it didn't take a seasoned familiar to see that, and she was fixed to take care of that when she noticed Arin's friend also had his eyes open and seemed to be staring at Claire. Torn between not wanting to make anyone in the room ill at ease and needing to take care of business, she looked over at Claire, then back to Arin as she felt in her purse for her swiss army knife.

"This is Claire; she's a friend, you might remember her from when Meridian split from its parent company."Â?

She wasn't sure if speaking in code was necessary, but even if the other blonde was a friend of Arin's and clearly another vampire, she didn't know him from Adam and secrets were not hers to tell.

Flicking open the knife, she climbed up to sit next to Arin on the couch.

"Just keep still; I'm coming to you."Â? She smiled gently at this, though she sincerely did not want Arin moving right now. Normally a more private situation would be better, but Arin needed blood ten minutes ago and she figured he wouldn't mind skipping niceties.

Taking the open knife in one hand, she pressed down on her wrist until blood welled up. Not as pleasant for either of them as a proper bite, but Danielle imagined if Arin wanted something more satisfying he could have it once he was feeling a little better. Rising to her knees on the couch, she very gently wrapped one hand around the back of Arin's head, holding him steady, and put her bleeding wrist to his lips. She spoke very quietly, not feeling the need to have anyone else here her.

"Drink up dear friend; it's going to be okay."Â?

In the back of her mind, she was wondering just what they would do about Arin's friend; she didn't mind giving him blood as well but wasn't sure she would be able to give enough for both of them. Now, however, she would do what she could, which was all one could really ask for in any case.

He smiled at Thaddeus and sent.

[Ah, well all the excitement is over really so I don't think we missed anything.]

Alfarinn watched Danielle dig around in her purse and wondered just what the woman was up to. Certainly she wouldn't be giving him a cookie at this point? He smirked at the thought despite the pull on his neck.

He turned ever so slightly to take in the other woman, blinking a few times until recognition dawned. Normally he would have eyed her outfit and given her a raised eyebrow but he wasn't up for wondering what a member of clan Anantya was doing dressed for the House of Pain and hanging around his assistant.

[Ah, Anantya...Order of the Night]

It occurred to him then that Thaddeus should have known Claire better than he did and Alfarinn had time to think that odd before he smelled blood and sensed Dani moving up beside him. It was obvious from his companion's statement that he didn't recognize her and that was something they'd have to figure out later. Did Claire leave Anantya?

He sucked delicately on Dani's wrist a moment, letting the blood pass mostly without aid through to his mangled throat, feeling it begin to knit back into place as the precious liquid passed through it. Once he was feeling somewhat better he carefully bit down, reaching up slowly to lightly hold on to his familiar's wrist.

Alfarinn thanked whatever bright moment of inspiration had caused him to hire the caring and thoughtful woman in front of him. She had all the drive and intelligence of many others that he had interviewed but when Danielle walked in and spoke with him her spirit touched him. He had thought that he should get someone he would not get close to but when he spoke with her, Alfarinn knew that he would be doing Meridian and Evenhet a disservice if he didn't hire her immediately. She had such vision and caring and yet was somehow level headed in spite of all she had seen as his assistant and familiar. He knew he'd not be able to cope without her and right now he knew he might not have lived without her, him and Thaddeus both.

All the healing that his body was doing was metabolizing the blood almost as fast as he could drink it but he reminded himself that he was not as hungry as he felt and that Thaddeus still needed blood as well.

Gently licking the wound, he then pressed cool lips against it before raising his head and looking at Dani and said in a voice much improved.

"Words alone cannot express my gratitude."

Thaddeus felt his eyebrows raise even higher when Alfarinn's assistant introduced Claire. His companion confirmed what he had gathered from the introduction, with the additional information that Claire was of his order. He frowned for a moment, trying to place her and struggling to make his way through his own normally orderly memory.

Deciding to make another attempt at polite introductions in spite of the situation, he managed an artless smile and spoke.

"Well..."Â? He took a painful, shaky breath and struggled to keep from coughing. "...met. Thaddeus Grey of Anantya."Â? He closed his eyes for a moment, then decided that was a mistake as in his current state he was liable to keep them closed. Prying them open, he regarded her with open curiosity, any number of questions on the tip of his tongue. However, at the moment he lacked the energy to ask, and was finding it increasingly difficult to think clearly as Alfarinn's assistant shifted her weight on the couch and the scent of fresh blood hit him. When Alfarinn bit down he couldn't help but close his eyes once more, feeling his love heal through the bond, though his mind was still at work.

Why was someone from the Order of the Night here now? Coincidence? Claire was dressed to go to the House of Pain...had they been followed all this time? And who -was- she? Thaddeus was convinced he should know, though in reality he usually held that attitude regardless.

Deciding to work the details out once he was in slightly better condition, he turned once more to the sound of Alfarinn's voice, which sounded a great deal more like the baritone he was now warmly familiar with.

[Better, love?]

Hearing his companion give his thanks, Thaddeus felt his own sense of gratitude. This sort of gesture was far from common, at least in his circles; an offering like that was an honorable gift indeed. He held the opinion that Alfarinn was extremely lucky to have found this particular young lady. Thankful as he was, however, he thought it would be wise to keep quiet, but he did manage to make eye contact in what he hoped was a significant glance.

Claire had continued to watch Dani and Alfarinn carefully but the man was actually very gentle with her and she marveled at his restraint at a time when most of her kind would simply feel the urge to take it all.

She wondered briefly if perhaps that was where Evenhet had something right. They treated humans with a level of respect that her people generally did not. It was easy to drain someone dry when you thought them beneath you but if you knew them and cared about them it might be more difficult.

Her eyes wandered to Alfarinn's companion and she found herself being watched. She smiled faintly at him figuring it was better to watch him than the more private experience going on next to him. She would have further introduced herself later once she knew that everyone was in the know. Alfarinn, at least, would probably have questions, just as she did.

It was then that his companion made his introduction and Claire's thoughts were replaced by new ones. An Anantya with an Evenhet? They appeared to have fought on the same side if their being here together with hands clasped meant anything. She reasoned that he would not have told her his clan if there was something that Anantya should not know about this situation.

Putting aside her many questions, Claire nodded her head in greeting.

"Claire Tremaine of Anantya."

Kneeling next to Thaddeus, she watched him a moment longer before making up her mind. He was family and part of the only one she had left. Someone, perhaps the most unlikely of their kind, chose to save her and could she really do any less when faced with one of her kindred in need?

"We are family then."

Claire bit her own wrist and watched the blood well up in the wound before standing and leaning over the side of the couch to bring it close to her clan mate.

"And family takes care of one another."

Danielle tilted her head and moved closer to give Arin a better angle as he sucked at the wound to her wrist, doing her best to avoid touching his still wounded arm. She felt her breath catch when he bit down, though she took the action as a good sign that he was already beginning to heal and regain his strength.

She looked down at Arin's neck to confirm that belief, not being particularly squeamish about seeing such things with her eyes. Seeing that his throat was indeed in much better shape, she lifted her head back up and rested it on top of Arin's, feeling herself relax as he fed. It was, she thought, somewhat unusual for her head to be above Arin's; normally he towered over her, and even with him sitting down they were about of a height.

She was not particularly nervous about Arin taking too much; he always seemed to know when to stop and the tranquil, boneless state she usually encountered after a feeding was more a result of the bite than blood loss. Even so, she thought it was only responsible to pay attention and not relax too overly much, easy as it was to lose one's self to the bite.

Pulling back to a sitting position once Arin was finished and her wrist began healing, she lifted her shoulder in a half shrug and smiled.

"It's no problem. I'm glad you're feeling better."Â?

She peered over at Arin's friend, wondering if he would need blood as well, but it seemed while they were otherwise occupied Claire had stepped in, and so she kept her peace. Instead, she reached into her purse and took out her box of cookies, as she found they helped recharge her batteries some after a feeding. Some orange juice would be nice but this place didn't really look like it would have anything like that.

"You want to tell me what we're doing here?"Â?

She spoke gently, without reproach or demand, and the question was sincere enough; Arin certainly didn't have to tell her anything, but there might be some information she was meant to know and she did wonder what had happened if for no other reason than because she'd rather it didn't happen again.

Alfarinn sighed softly in relief as most of the wounds disappeared at least on an outward level. He could still feel the healing taking place inside his body and decided to remain as still as possible for a while. He carefully laid the injured arm on Danielle's shoulder.

"You're a angel and a saint."

Answering Thaddeus's question, he smiled, leaning his head around to look at him.

[Yes, quite. Now about you...]

He was about to move and let his companion take from him but Claire moved instead. Alfarinn listened to her speak of family and come to stand next to Thaddeus. He was touched by the loyalty she felt for her clan. So it would seem she was still a loyal member of Anantya which made him wonder again how Thaddeus did not seem to recognize her.

He was also concerned about his lover's reaction to such an offering.

[Would you rather take from me instead? I'd rather you be as comfortable as possible. If this makes you uneasy then there are alternatives.]

Alfarinn looked up at Claire and smiled.

"Thank you."

He thought of Dani's question and replied.

"I think when Thaddeus here is feeling a touch better then we can both explain to the whys and wherefores. "

Alfarinn thought to his companion.

[I think we do owe them something of an explanation. Don't you?]

Thaddeus regarded Claire with open curiosity as she approached, trying to process the new information her surname offered. He knew this, he was sure of it, but he struggled to place the name. Her next actions, though, drove such thoughts out of his mind.

Her words struck a chord with Thaddeus on more than one level, and he reflected that family was a complex thing indeed.

Alfarinn's offer came in the midst of this consideration, and for a moment Thaddeus hesitated in his answer. He had no wish to give offense, and he hoped Alfarinn could understand when really, he didn't think he could explain his rationale.

There were the obvious reasons; Alfarinn needed the blood for himself, for one, and for another he was admittedly somewhat self conscious about committing such a personal act in front of others. There was also a part of him that felt that he would rather not bite Alfarinn when his companion could not bite him back, odd as that sounded in his mind.

It felt somehow dishonest to voice those thoughts, though, when another reason weighed on his mind.

[It is alright; I'm not uncomfortable and you still need to heal.]

He leaned forward, wincing a little, and took Claire's wrist lightly with his left hand, bringing it to his lips. Dragging his lower lip to catch the stray drop of blood, his mouth opened over the wound and he began to suck gently.

[She is Anantya.]

And that was what it came down to. Thaddeus could be proud at times, and more than a little stubborn, but he also understood what it meant to be Anantya, and Claire had made a noble offer he could not turn down. He knew he would do the same thing were their situations reversed; there was a solidarity in that, in caring for one's family and in being cared for. It was an act he could see the beauty in, dark as it was.

Hunger, however, prevented deeper thoughts on the subject, and he let his eyes close as fangs grew and pressed into skin. He bit down carefully, seeking more of the rich blood but cautious of losing himself in the feeding, in the smell of the ocean that seemed to linger around her, and in the sheer relief of life flooding his veins once more. That did not, however, seem to be much of a danger; the sensation of healing, like pins and needles, went through him and kept him quite aware.

He pulled back after another moment, feeling the wounds close under his lips. After ensuring that he had not left any stray blood on Claire's wrist, he released her and spoke, somewhat tentatively, as though his mind had not yet caught up to the fact that he was rapidly healing.

"Thank you."Â?

He turned to Alfarinn, raising his eyebrow at his companion's statement, but had to admit the rightness of it.

[This is true.]

What sort of explanation, though, was another matter.

[I'm not certain of what you would normally tell your assistant; as for Claire...it would seem you know her better than I, which is somewhat odd...]

Realization struck suddenly as he regarded Claire, and it was all he could do not to show a reaction.

She was Sorin's child. Likely he hadn't realized it before now because Sorin never mentioned her, and he had never asked after noticing her name in the records, feeling it would be intrusive.

His mind went through the possibilities as his brow crinkled in uncertainty. If their suspicions regarding Sorin held any truth...but then why would she take care of him? If this was an act, it was a convincing one, but hell, that's what the Order of the Night -did-.

There was also the thought that Sorin had sent her specifically to look in on him, to make sure he was safe, but then why would she feign not knowing who he was? Unless she were merely wishing to be certain...but that didn't quite add up either.

And then it was possible that Sorin hadn't sent her at all. That she had merely been in the right place at the right time.

She had just offered up her blood and so soon after, Thaddeus was calculating in spite of the trust implied in both giving and receiving. It wasn't a good feeling, though he imagined he would be considering just what sort of person he was quite a bit in the near future in any case.

[I don't want to be hasty in jumping to conclusions...but I am nearly certain Claire Tremaine is Sorin's child and I believe we should be careful.]

Sighing, he leaned back on the couch. It wasn't over, not fully, and it was important that he remember that.

"I am considerably better. Thank you again."Â?

He managed a soft smile, and continued.

"I imagine there are quite a few questions, but before we go any further I would request..."Â? He turned to Alfarinn's assistant "...the name of the lady who came to Alfarinn's rescue."Â?

Claire put an hand lightly on Thaddeus's shoulder as he drank partially to reassure him and partly to steady herself as he bit down. Closing her eyes a moment, she let the pleasant sensation go through her before opening them again. Dignity always, as her sire taught her.

When Thaddeus pulled away, she stepped back and nodded.

"Of course."

She watched them speak of what went on but no explanation had yet to be given. Claire had to wonder if Alfarinn worried that he could not trust her as Anantya though it would seem that he trusted Thaddeus already. There was also the fact that she was a child of Sorin, something that Alfarinn may have noticed or not. She did not think she was much to look at when last they met, so recently turned much less take note of.

Looking around at the place, she saw no help for it and went over to the badly damaged arm chair, sitting down on the edge. A hand reached up to pull the absent shawl around her shoulders in a hope for some semblance of grace in such surroundings when she realized she wasn't wearing it. A glance down at her outfit confirmed the purple bodice and she wondered how a person with a flawless memory forgot they were wearing such things. The act of touching the chair was almost enough to make her go ethereal to avoid it but such behavior wouldn't do; however it was grimy and she shuddered at the feel of it but otherwise stayed where she was.

"It is a pleasure to see you alive and well, Alfarinn, though the last time was under much better circumstances."

Claire smiled and continued.

" If you worry that my connection to my creator makes me an unwise person to confide in then I understand and can wait outside. I am aware that there have been...differences between the two of you before. However, I must ask for my own peace of mind considering my aid here tonight." With that she cast a glance at Thaddeus but then turned back and regarded Alfarinn once more. "Just who's ashes are scattered in the blood outside? I do not wish to play a part in something against my clan. You'll pardon me, Thaddeus, I do not accuse you of such or Alfarinn, who, despite his reputation with my creator, has always proven himself to be a man of good morals. I would simply lay to rest any lingering anxiety on the subject."

Looking down she added.

"I am certain you have your own questions for me. I cannot begin to guess how I might look at this moment."

Claire waved her hand in a gesture that took in clothes and herself and waited for what they would decide.

Danielle nodded her head at Arin's implicit request for patience, not finding it unreasonable in the slightest, and peered over at Claire and Thaddeus. It was interesting to her, witnessing feeding from another perspective, though she reasoned that some might find her curious nature somewhat...voyeuristic. While there probably wasn't any harm in looking, seeing as how they were both otherwise occupied, some things probably did deserve a little privacy, and so she turned to Arin once more.

"Really, I'm just glad you'll alright now. I was worried."Â?

Seeing Thaddeus pull away, she looked back at the pair and smiled at the soft exchange. She had to repress a giggle, though, when Thaddeus turned to her and asked for her name; he just spoke so formally and seemed so serious about it. If he had worn a trace of a smirk she might have suspected that he was making fun of her, but he seemed quite sincere. She gave a little nod, trying to match his tone.

"Danielle Martin at your service. Though you can call me Dani."Â?

Claire's statements brought new questions to mind, of course, and she couldn't help but feel alarmed at the observations brought to light. She was somewhat surprised at herself when she discovered that her first concern was not for the dead vampire, whose troubles, it seemed, were over, but for Arin. For one of his abilities...it must have been awful for him in more than simply a physical sense.

In the midst of wondering, though, Danielle could not help but notice that Claire appeared very uncomfortable and out of place. She felt somewhat guilty at that realization; after all, she had talked Claire into the club clothes, and while the Anantya had seemed calm at the time, it was clear now that she would rather be wearing something else.

She stood up and walked over to the beat up chair Claire was sitting on, plopping down next to her on the floor. Explanations, she was sure, were forthcoming, but in the mean time it really looked like Claire could use a friend right now.

"I think you look very nice."Â? Smiling at the two men on the couch, she continued. "We were clubbing when you called. I was Claire's ride home, so we went together in the limo and got to talking. When we found out who the other really was it made sense to come here together."Â?

She didn't see why Claire should have to leave now, though there was obviously something important that she was missing. The woman had come to the aid of two vampires she apparently hardly knew, on the strength of a meeting years ago and the ties of her clan alone, and it hardly seemed fair to send her away.

Alfarinn watched his companion calmly through light grey eyes that were feeling a touch on the sleepy side despite his mind being wide awake and telling him that Thaddeus was still in need of blood.

He knew though that Thaddeus would be polite and want to acknowledge the gesture of trust that Claire was making. He understood what it was to have family, at this moment he understood again that they weren't of the same family, though for his own part he saw them as a mini family together despite their differing origins but perhaps that was only his view. They had never quite discussed it.

Still it did not hurt him to not share blood that at this moment he did not have to spare and they would always be part of differing clans no matter how they felt about each other; the ties of family did not end simply because they clung to each other more often. If an Evenhet were offering him the same he would have done the same. An Evenhet had come to his aid when he called and was very concerned for his safety. He gave Dani's shoulder a slight hug, proud that his family included such wonderful humans as well as his own kind.

[I understand]

Alfarinn gave Thaddeus's hand a squeeze in reassurance and then let it go so he could drink without being held down in any way.

He smiled at Dani and replied. It touched him that she was worried and he had to wonder how often his crazy schemes or charge in attitude have caused her anxiety. At those times, he was more concerned about what needed to be done and he realized now that he must be a hard person to care for.

"I'm feeling a thousand times better. Thank you."

Claire stood back and walked over to the chair. He listened to both Thaddeus's thoughts and Claire's words. Dani stood up and walked over to sit down next to the willowy Anantya and he had to grin at that; protective to fault, his little assistant.

[It would seem that you are right and I do remember her sitting behind Sorin but at the time that could mean simply that he had chosen her for an assistant. She didn't seem like his usual interest.]

Alfarinn nodded to Claire and felt that in her place,seeing what she had seen outside, he'd want to know as well. He found it interesting that she mentioned her creator and that her views and his did not always match. Hmm, he would have expected Sorin to keep a shorter leash on his own creations but nothing about this one seemed typical of the man. He wished he knew more about her origins.

"Well it would seem that Dani has answered some of our questions though I'm curious at just how an Anantya gets rooked into going to the House of Pain. You two have met only recently I take it."

Alfarinn looked at Thaddeus a moment before turning back to Claire.

"I do not think that it will be necessary for you to leave, nor could I, in good conscience, repay you for your kindness in aiding someone so important to me by not giving you the information that would ease your mind."

[Is there some very substantial reason you can think of for not explaining this in her presence. I suppose it is possible she might be the very Anantya who plotted with the Wolf. I do not feel that is so, not from what I sense but I could be very wrong and she has shown up here with most convenient timing but if she were working with Sorin or for her own reasons then it would seem she would want you dead not help you. It does seem odd that another Anantya would go to the House of Pain without good cause but perhaps she had other motives not connected with us. Of all the people to meet, she has found my assistant and its quite possible that the Order of the Night hoped to gain information from her, a human source might be more easy to manipulate by some people's thinking. ]

He did realize that he was talking about Thaddeus's own order and how they might plot against his clan by becoming friendly with his familiar but it was simply a possibility he couldn't ignore.

[ Though if that is her goal, it can be forgiven for what she has done to help you. She does not seem to mean Dani any harm and she was forthright about her clan to Dani very quickly which, oddly enough, makes it sound like they were actually going to the House of Pain for drinks.]

Alfarinn's sending sounded incredulous and amused at the thought but overall he was convinced that they had no reason not to tell her and if she were trying to gain information out of Dani then she likely did the wrong thing by telling the woman her clan. Danielle was a kind hearted girl but she was sharp as a tack and would know what secrets needed to be kept.

Thaddeus watched Dani move to sit next to Claire, inwardly both amused and relieved that his fellow Anantya expressed a similar discomfort with the typical House of Pain wear. He privately felt that Dani was correct; Claire did look rather nice, though he attributed that to her bearing more than anything else. There were, however, graver matters to consider.

They weren't going to be able to keep The Wolf's death a secret; too many people knew at this point anyway, and the murderer did have his place in the community, however horrible a niche he had carved. He couldn't very well tell Claire information he didn't know himself, and what he could, or rather would, tell them probably wasn't going to do much harm at this point.

Alfarinn seemed to trust his assistant with a certain amount of information, and he was curious as to how much. He did not think it his place to ask, though it was slightly bothersome that Dani was made out to be innocent and Claire a scheming spy. Dani could just as easily be trying to spy on Anantya in hopes of infiltrating both clans and plotting a human takeover.

Well, maybe not just as likely...in fact Thaddeus would admit that theory was far fetched even for him, if for no other reason than that he found it highly unlikely that just anyone could earn Alfarinn's trust to the extent that he would take her on as his assistant. And in any case, Alfarinn's theory regarding Claire's possible spying was certainly a possibility, though he was beginning to think the situation might be as simple as it appeared. Occam's razor at work.

Trying to shake off lingering worries, he wrapped his hand in Alfarinn's once more, smiling a little at his companion's sentiment. It was indeed difficult to hold much mistrust for either of their rescuers, though he felt it likely was not unreasonable to be slightly jumpy after having someone try to rip your head off with a bladed glove.

[No substantial reason, no. I do believe that we have to understand that anything said here could get back to Sorin, however. Then again, every person we tell holds a certain amount of risk, and in all honesty I don't know that we've seen any reason to believe she is any more likely to go to Sorin with information than anyone else we've encountered, parentage notwithstanding.]

That said, he considered just how to go about telling Claire about The Wolf. 'You aren't involved in any wrong doing...but if you could just keep quiet about this, we would certainly appreciate it' didn't seem like a good approach. Choosing his words carefully, he decided to keep the explanation simple and honest.

"The vampire who died tonight was not Anantya, though he has ties to our clan. He was a clanless mercenary specializing in killing his own kind. He was called Lykaios, or The Wolf."Â? Considering for a moment, he continued. "You have not acted against your clan; The Wolf was a threat to us, myself in particular."Â?

He leaned forward on his knees, suddenly aware he was once again able to move.

[Well that's one question answered. I would suggest that unless there are any more pressing questions, we could just as easily and perhaps more comfortably explain whatever else needs to be clarified elsewhere. I know it would ease my mind to make sure we have not left evidence that the human authorities would find and tie up other loose ends, and I'm sure these ladies would prefer not to stay here any longer than necessary.]

He was, naturally, willing to have this conversation now; though he was healing and feeling a great deal better, more rest while they talked had a certain appeal. There was, however, work to be done and choices to be made, and he couldn't help but have such things, along with courtesy, on his mind.

Claire smiled at Dani as she came to sit down next to her and explained why they were here dressed the way they were.

"I thank you. It is not that I find it particularly unappealing or even uncomfortable. As this part." She indicated the corset with a gesture. "Is something I've certain worn before. It is simply different than I am used to. I suppose I am old and set in my ways."

She gave them an embarrassed grin and looked down at the hands folded in her lap.

Alfarinn's questions were less pointed than she anticipated but she understood that a member of her Order, here and now probably seemed too strange to be coincidence and he must be wondering why she was out with his assistant anyway.

"We met over the timeless method of female bonding...shopping. Both of us were invited to a mini celebration of someones new job. They were going to the House of Pain. Dani said that it was best not to go alone as the woman seemed to be intent on doing. I do have a curious nature and the description sounded interesting so we both agreed to meet her there. It did seem that her friend had yet to arrive when we left so she was likely to have company very soon."

Claire shrugged, or meet more people since it would seem Shay did not have any problems in that department. She did not want Dani to feel bad for leaving when it was obvious that there was a real emergency here.

[i] Listening to Thaddeus's explanation she nodded.

"I see. If he was not Anantya then I shall not worry about it any longer, save to inquire where I can be of service if you need me."

She did not know much about Thaddeus and would have to do some checking of her own when she reached the Manor. Discreet inquiry with Sorin might prove helpful but she knew better than to take anyone's word at face value, especially her Sire's.

Claire wondered just how much Sorin knew of this situation that Thaddeus was in. He generally knew what was going on in the various orders if it was of interest to him to know; that was in fact part of her job for him. Certainly some guy intent on murdering an Evenhet elder and one of her clan mates would be of interest. This particular elder though, Claire decided it was probably unwise to bring the matter to Sorin in any way. He might just know more than he should, whether directly responsible or not, she thought it unlikely that Sorin would hinder a plot to kill Alfarinn in the best of situations and he certainly would not be sorry to see the tall blond gone.

So find out what she could about Thaddeus on her own, don't mention it to Sorin though keep an attentive ear open to the Elder of the Night and see if he lets anything slip as far as knowledge goes. That plan in mind, she looked around again.

'You're friend, the crow, here. Would you like me to take a look at him?"

She stood up and quietly walked over to the avian. Wondering what in the house might be suitable to set its wing.

"I am more knowledgeable about human patients but I think I could manage to set a broken wing."

Alfarinn smiled at his calculating friend, wondering what the full extent of Thaddeus's suspicions were. No doubt he was running scenarios in his head and thinking up possibilities for the entire situation that Alfarinn hadn't even thought of. It was another reason they were so well suited for each other, Thaddeus added in caution that he overlooked. He just hope keeping him sane wouldn't drive his companion insane in the process.

He listened to Claire's explanation of how they met and had to smirk at the idea of them shopping, that most cliche of female habits.

"Let me guess....shoes?"

Thaddeus explanation was too the point and all that was really necessary at this moment. His mention that the killer was after him specifically suggested that it was a personal matter and not a clan matter but he should perhaps explain a little further for Dani's benefit.

"Yes, since we've met I've become rather attached to my well spoken friend here."

Alfarinn grinned at Thaddeus and squeezed his hand lightly, glad to have it once more in his own.

"While it might be accurate to say that Evenhet had very little to do with this matter, I find that what concerns my companion concerns me as well. For reasons that we are not fully aware of Lykaios was after Thaddeus and as I'm sure you already know" Alfarinn looked at Dani somewhat sheepishly. "I'm not one who is able to sit by and keep out of such a situation if I know of it, even more so in this case. I don't think Thaddeus could have kept me out of it if he tried and I'm glad he didn't. "

It was perhaps said somewhat for Thaddeus's benefit as well as to explain. He knew his companion likely blamed himself for the injuries that were gotten through this endeavor but to Alfarinn's mind that simply wasn't right. Lykaios was responsible for them and love was responsible for him wanting to be here. He wouldn't begrudge love or Thaddeus any injury necessary to continue having his companion alive and well.

[Yes, we should get up and get things cleaned up. There are bags with the bodies out front that need to be put in a dumpster or taken and buried. Do we wish to search Lykaios's apartment while we are here or come back at a later time? There might be something useful here though honestly I can't imagine what.]

Claire moved toward the crow and Alfarinn stood up to go help out.

"Here let me talk to him."

He figured it wouldn't be a secret in a few moments anyway and he wasn't going to let someone cause him necessary pain without trying to soothe his fears.

Danielle had the grace to look sheepish at her own transparency when Arin mentioned the specifics of their shopping trip. While even empaths couldn't read minds, he certainly seemed to have her pegged, though that was hardly surprising considering the variety of her shoe selection.

"Got it in one."Â?

Listening to Thaddeus's clipped accounting of their attacker sent a chill through her, and she wasn't entirely certain of whether it was the description of the vampire killer or the way the Anantya told them. As Arin elaborated it became increasingly clear that her boss was quite attached to Thaddeus, and she wondered just how long this had been going on. While she certain didn't know all the ins and outs of Arin's personal life, and it really wasn't any of her business to know, she couldn't help but feel concern for her caring friend. It was indeed very like Arin to risk everything to help someone in need, but what about when Thaddeus -wasn't- in need? Would the Anantya stick around then?

Mostly, she just hoped that Arin wasn't getting set up to be hurt.

After glancing over at the wolf, who was now mostly hidden behind the chair, she spoke quietly, more musing to herself than expecting an answer.

"I suppose he got his nickname because of his friend? I wonder what will become of him now."Â?

Sighing sadly, she turned back to regard the two gentlemen.

"It must have been a nightmare; I'm so sorry you had to go through that and very glad you made it through alive."Â?

She smiled at Claire's offer to help the crow; Arin would likely appreciate that. She couldn't help but be curious about Claire's medical training and found herself wishing that her new friend were in Evenhet; someone versed in human as well as vampire healing would be a real asset. She had found, though, that families were brought together for a reason, and she had to admit that Claire likely made a good fit in Anantya.

As Arin and Claire made their way to the kitchen, Danielle stood as well.

"I suppose we should get things straightened up a bit out front. Perhaps we can do that while they fix up Arin's crow?"Â?

While the reason was honest enough, in truth she wouldn't mind getting Arin's new friend alone. Of course she wasn't going to give him the third degree, but she didn't see anything wrong with being interested in learning more.

Thaddeus could not help but be somewhat dubious of Claire's response, considering she had already admitted to having a curious nature and was, after all, Order of the Night, but could at least accept that she was no longer troubled at face value.

Squeezing lightly on Alfarinn's fingers, he listened as his companion went into more detail on his own involvement. He found that he was of two minds on the matter; on the one hand, feeling deeply loved, and on the other saddened that one of the qualities he loved most in Alfarinn had caused him pain. The fact that it simply wasn't in Alfarinn to stand by when those he cared about were in danger was admirable, but it signified a certain amount of responsibility.

Deciding to put off the inevitable second guessing himself for a later time, he instead responded to Alfarinn's query.

[I think it might be best to clean up and clear out for the moment. To get the ladies home, and to send word to Morrigan and Mai explaining what has happened; I ought not delay long in that. I imagine this place will keep for a day.]

He smiled softly as Claire and Alfarinn headed for the injured crow, pleased that his clan mate was so willing to help in any way she could and relieved that something could be done for his companion's friend. Dani brought him back to his own tasks, though, and he stood, nodding in agreement.

"Certainly."Â?

That said, he walked to the front door and opened it for Dani to pass through, following after her and onto the front steps. He noticed a cloak lying nearby, presumably belonging to The Wolf, and made a mental note to bring that inside when they went back in.

For the moment, there were two trash bags to deal with. Deciding that the smell of burning dog would likely bring more attention than they needed, he crouched down and lifted the first bag with the intention of taking it to the dumpster at the end of the lane. He was, however, rather morbidly reminded of Dani's inquiries regarding the remaining living wolf, and thought to answer them before he walked away.

"I believe Alfarinn means to keep the wolf you saw inside."Â?

He did his best to keep his tone free of skepticism, though in all honesty he was not certain of how well that arrangement would work.

"I'll return for the other one; these are heavy."Â?

Claire looked at the bird on the table and felt a bit of relief. The break appeared to be clean and mid shaft so the wing could be strapped to the body instead of outward which would make it even more difficult for the crow to move around.

Looking around she found a roll of duct tape which seemed to be the handy repair for the arm chair. Taking this and pulling off long strips, she smiled reassuringly at Alfarinn lest he think she was about to do something crazy. She folded the strips over onto themselves so that they were no longer sticky except for the very end.

"I need to wrap this around your friend here and then tape it over itself to hold the wing in place."

She waited for Alfarinn to do what ever it was he wanted to do before trying to touch the crow.

/ooc Birdie analyzed with permission