2nd Annual New Years Winter Ball

[Samantha Deadwood]

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Come one, come all to the 2nd annual Ball of SOTU, where creatures from every race has been invited to this once in a year party. A tree is hoisted into the center of the large building decorated with beautiful Christmas lights that glow brightly in the dimly lit ballroom. Now, since the Mayor had been too busy for he had decided to combine the two biggest holidays. That's right instead of focusing around Christmas there will be New Years packed into this. Beware to you all there is mistletoe hanging all around and you know the rules, so don't be caught under it with someone you don't like. Snow lingers in the air above you by elemental users, never touching the ground nor yourself. The lights have been changed to a vibrant blue giving the effects of a Winter Wonderland. Icicles hang from the ceiling, they sparkle in the lights, never moving. There is a live band and various foods to eat and alcoholic beverages to drink. So have fun my dears, ask that boy or girl to dance and make memories of a life time.

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[Kaylee Lazar]

Kay entered the building and started moving towards the ballroom. It was a magical night for many creatures of SOTU, but the only reason Kaylee was here was because she assumed she'll find something precious to steal.
The white dress she was wearing was also stolen. It's not like she liked stealing, but she thought that she didn't even have another choice since she didn't work or have a family that could take care of stuff like clothes, food, education or anything.
Sometimes she wished she was turned into a vampire instead of a werewolf because then she'd maybe be able to compel people to give her what she needs.

The young werewolf entered the ballroom alone. She was still new to SOTU so she didn't know anyone there. Maybe that was for the best. At least she won't feel sorry for robbing someone. Then again, there were all kinds of creatures in that ballroom and she'll always be at risk of getting caught and torn into pieces.
Ignoring her negative thoughts, she put her head up, scanned the room and disappeared in the crowd.

[Anastasia Lucian]

Annie just watched the other she knew she should have kept her mouth shut. She knew all he wanted to do was be her friend, a companion, but Annie had been shown nothing practically from the other wolves. They had rubbed her nose in the dirt until she would eat it. They didn't care about an omega, no one did. Why should he, a beta, a wolf who should be getting close to a stronger wolf. Warrior or hell even a guardian. A she-wolf or even a male who could be worthy of his time. As he began to try and tell her that it was her choice for him to stay or not she didn't speak for a long time. Her aqua gaze turned upwards as she gave a low snuff, "You're rank is just a title it doesn't define who you are. I can see that you genuinely want to be my friend. It's just sad that I keep denying you because of what other wolves had done to me." She said softly. She watched him, his exterior showed that he was strong and on alert able to tear someone's throat out but she had starred deep into the males eyes. Practically able to see his soul and what she found was sad, lonely, abused, cold. She frowned visibly as she had to look away a shiver running up her spine as she shook. She didn't know what had happened and she didn't ask, she just continued to look at the grass.

She was caught off guard as he had called her beautiful and a small smile came to her features. She didn't doubt him, she may have not thought herself as beautiful, okay she was doubting but her esteem for herself wasn't strong. His next words however, sliced into her skin and she flinched as if she could feel the knife cutting into her soft flesh. She sighed but didn't say anything else, she didn't want to argue. As he walked off she shifted back and began to walk in the opposite direction, "I did... He hurt me." She said aloud and finally she ran off to her own house.

Her hand touched the knob to her cabin as she quickly slipped in. She had went to the bathroom and grabbed a few medication pills that helped with... various things. Such as her anxiety, depression, and her panic attacks. She was a walking mess but she didn't tell anyone. She kept her head low and tried to keep a smile on her face, she was a sweet little wolf after all. She ran a few fingers through her dark locks as she began to make her way to the shower. Grabbing the knob she cleaned up and then gave an easy smile as she realized what today was. The day she could be normal, herself, not have to hang her head. For tonight was the Ball and ranks didn't matter there. At least since most of the wolves didn't really care and there were all different kinds of people she could meet. She blow tried and styled her hair to be pinned up. Makeup done as with a fresh French manicure and pedicure she had done for herself. She was plowing on the wet paint as she grabbed her [You must be registered and logged in to see this link.]

As she pulled it on she turned to look at herself in the mirror, alright she was looking pretty good at least she had thought so. She smiled as she realized that most wolves were probably getting ready, her midsection was sparkling with diamonds but the fabric was see threw. The blue brought out her eyes as well as her skin, she smiled softly and then began to get into the cab she had called earlier, luckily she made them park where the entrance of the woods started. It seemed like forever a bunch of twists and turns but finally she made it. Handing the money to the cab driver he got out swiftly and opened her door for her. She smiled and grabbed his hand as she got out. Luckily her scars and bruises had cleared up from the previous day but the bite of the wolf was still on her shoulder but it would heal soon.

She looked around it was completely beautiful, she smiled softly as she stood a little awkwardly for a moment or two and suddenly a male had came by to talk with her. She giggled softly as he made a joke and soon enough she was on the dance floor with the other. His hand on the middle of her back while one hand was placed in her other. She gave an easy smile as her hand was on his shoulder, she had to say he was a pretty good dancer. She was light on her feet, having to be a ballet dancer herself she was twirled and brought back to her partner. Her thoughts started to wonder as she thought perhaps Pierce may show up. She felt bad for treating him like shit when he was only trying to be nice. As the song was over she went towards the punch bowl and that's when she paused as she saw a new werewolf, strange. She gave a sweet little smile as she dipped her head lowly in greeting, Hello..."

[Pierce Lothington]

Pierce sighed as he walked slowly through the trees, his paws making soft thud sounds against the ground. He heard her last words and his ears lowered more, he didn't know what to think or do anymore. Pierce hoped he could drink enough tonight to get his mind off things and just make a few friends and have a good time and most importantly, forget about her. Not that he wanted to totally forget about but forget about the emotions that threatened to uprise and explode since he encountered her. He wanted to be around her and see where the world would take them, friends, best friends? More than that? He knew if anyone showed promise of being his friend and being able to understand and accept him, she was the one with the most promise. Pierce didn't choose her because she was little and needed a little help or 'protecting' and he didn't see her as a charity case or a way to do right and help fix her and make her happy. He saw her as someone who was beautiful, so kind hearted and accepting. He saw her as a friend even if she didn't see him as anything more than a beta. A big bad, scary beta who would crush her with his tail. He didn't want her to think that but he knew that's how she felt. When he first approached her she was cowering in fear more than respect. It made him... sad. He used his appearance to appear okay and put together, not totally broken and destroyed and not totally helpless. He used his appearance and skills to seem tough and strong on the outside to hide what was inside. He was a liar, a handsome, perfectly mastered and skilled liar.

Pierce headed toward his home, seated deep in the woods, secluded and alone. He walked at a slow, uncaring pace, his body swaying slightly as he went. His ears were tall and alert as he listened for everything he could. He just wanted to snap a spine in half, rip someone's throat out and blind someone else with acid. He just wanted to hurt and destroy, he wanted to deal with his emotions, that's how he did it... That's how he felt put together and powerful, that's how he felt not so emotional. He attacked and he hurt so it made his hurt seem less and less until it seemed to just disappear. Pierce was good as pushing his emotions away and living without them. He was so good at it because he avoided letting people get close and getting attached so he wouldn't feel emotions that could make him vulnerable and hurt. It was odd how he lived that way his whole life and now suddenly he was ready to tear down his walls for the omega. He'd build them right back up as soon as she was inside but for now he had to wait and maybe he'd never let her or maybe she'd never get in. He didn't know how things would go and it was killing him and making him nervous and anxious, antsy... Pierce was too deep in thought to notice a low hanging branch jutting out from the trunk of a tree and he only realized after it cut open his shoulder. Pierce growled and shifted quickly, standing completely nude and examining the long wound on his shoulder that bled down his arm. He shook out his arm and continued toward his home, upon arrived he opened the door and ran right to his shoulder and turned on the water, showering himself and his wound off. The red from his blood mixed with the water and swirled down the drain with a pink tint, it continued to bleed throughout his shower and he ignored the burning, stinging throb of it. He didn't have time for to bitch over the pain, he had to hurry up and get ready for the ball. Everyone was going to be there and he debated not going but he might as well go get drunk off champagne or whatever was going to be there. Given, that'd be a lot of champagne he'd try his best. Pierce stepped out of the shower and patted his body dry before wrapping a towel around his waist and walking toward his room where his [You must be registered and logged in to see this link.] waited. He opened his closed and took the suit hanging on the door, down and too his bed. He set it down there before pulling on a pair of boxers and bending over, drying his hair with the towel and after doing so, discarding the towel to the side. He eyed the suit and then began to put it on, after he had everything situated he looked in the mirror and adjusted his tie before going to do his hair. Pierce didn't do much to his hair, just made it look nice and put together. He had applied a gauze wrap and some salve to his wound before putting the suit on so it wouldn't bother  the wound from the rubbing of the suit and get the suit bloody. Pierce made sure he looked good, smelled good and felt good before grabbing his keys and heading toward his vehicle parked beside his home. His black Chevy Camaro waited for him, when he unlocked it the blue headlights blinked once before it started and sat there with a low purr. Pierce got in, inserted the key but he didn't have to start it and pulled out, heading down a path he himself had made that had dirt tire tracks and he pulled out onto a back country road and sped toward the city.

Pierce arrived at the building the ball was being held in and he parked, tossing some quarters into a meter and he walk jogged across the street and up the steps. He was nervous excited and also a little sad but nothing a little booze couldn't help. He opened the door and walked in, his nicely polished dress shoes making soft thuds as he walked silently into the place and as soon as he walked in he saw Anastasia dancing with another man. He felt jealous and he felt dumb, she let that man dance with her and wouldn't even let Pierce be her friend without some sort of set back or argument. Pierce sighed and ran a hand through his hair as he snagged a glass of champagne from a passing waiter  holding a tray of glasses, this would be a long night. Pierce sighed and smiled at a woman who came to chat him up and he politely declined her advances and walked away, setting his empty glass on a tray and swapping it for a full one. He winked at the waiter and headed to a small two person table and sat down, just watching and listening to everyone. He was once again the outcast but he was used to it. Nothing new. His eyes were attracted to a new werewolf, pretty and standing next to Anastasia but he ignored the omega's presence. She was wearing a blue dress and his suit had blue accents, they matched...  He eyed the new wolf and sipped his drink before moving his eyes to the dance floor and watched people dancing as a new song came on. His sigh was large and he set his drink down, tracing his finger around the rim of it.

[Anastasia Lucian]

Annie was getting ignored by the she-wolf so she gently bit her lip as she began to make an escape towards where the various foods were. Sweets and meats, she even saw champagne glasses full of whine and blood she would stay away from those drinks. Looking around she didn't notice Pierce at first as she began to walk along the edge of the area. She stayed away from the wolves and chose to talk to the shifters or hybrids. The vampires didn't give her a time of day and she decided to stay away from vampires. After Jonathan had just used her just to get in her pants she decided that the vampires were just good looking immortals with no heart. She was stopped dead in her tracks as she noticed the male, he had on a suit that had blue accents. The same color of her dress, she blinked in surprise.... They-they were matching b-but she bit at her bottom lip and just casted her gaze away from him.

She was afraid why would he want to talk to her anyway, she rejected him and questioned him about his friendship. She saw him as a beta, but here, away from the territory she watched him with non judging eyes. She stepped closer to him her eyes a vibrant blue as she soon moved and stood next to him. At first she didn't know what to say, what to do. She heard the music pause and then play into a different song not to fast and not to slow. She turned her gaze towards Pierce and bit her lip as she took a deep breath. The worst he could say was 'no' so she looked over at him her eyes confused, "Um... Hi..." She started out as she looked at the dance floor then to him, "I'm sorry I was so rude earlier..." She started out her shy side showing as she slowly began to move in front of him, "W-W-Would you-you like to dance w-with m-me?" She was stuttering again and she felt a blush against her high cheekbones.

That's when she just felt completely dumb as she just hung her head, she wanted to be friends with him. She wanted to get to know him better to spend time with him. Instead of cowering and being afraid she should stop judging a book by it's cover. She was afraid he would say no and if he did she would just walk away. Noticing a few males turn their gaze in their direction she watched as they whispered to each other. Thinking that her and Pierce were together due to the fact that they were, well, matching. Annie was antsy unsure of how he would respond she moved her gaze back up to looking into his unique colored eyes with her aquamarine blue eyes.

[Levi Lucian]

The last place in the world Levi Lucian expected to find himself was at SOTU’s annual Winter Ball. Dancing had always been Annie’s thing, not his. Yet somehow, on the night of the ball, the young lycan found himself standing outside the doors of the massive ballroom that was quickly filling up with people of all blood lines and species. His gaze devoured the entirety, taking in every detail from the decorated Christmas tree in the center of the room to the endless string of lights that circled the ballroom several times over. The vibrant blue lights along with the flurry of snow that fell from the ceiling -most likely the work of those who could manipulate the weather- gave the room a winter-like effect. The room buzzed with activity between the many guests and the live band that was set up in the corner of the room. Although the party was only beginning, the sounds of laughter and excited chatter filled the room. Levi had never seen so many people in the holiday spirit. Honestly, it was like something straight out of a Hallmark movie. Whoever had organized the event had done an amazing job.

Levi lingered in the doorway for several minutes, more content with observing the scene before him than actually being a part of it. He had always been the type to blend into the shadows. But tonight, he doubted it would be possible to keep to himself. Not when there were so many ladies -and a few gentlemen- already giving him the bedroom eyes. It must have been because of the famous Lucian charm. An unsure smile found its way onto Levi’s face as he nervously took a few steps into the room. Against his better judgment he had gone out and bought himself a brand new [You must be registered and logged in to see this link.] for the occasion. The monkey suit felt strange and stiff on Levi’s body, but he managed to pull off the look to the best of his abilities. The bowtie fastened to the collar of his button-down suggested elegance, but the black shades that covered his dark blue eyes seemed to give Levi more of a mysterious edge. Perhaps that was why so many guests looked at him with interest; everyone loved a bad boy, after all. If they only knew the half of it.

The first thing that Levi really noticed when he stepped into the room was his twin sister, Anastasia. The Lucian boy’s eyes seemed to find his sister instinctively. It was a gift, really. Levi could always sense when Anastasia was nearby long before she made herself known. His eyes were even faster than his nose, which was just now picking up his young sister’s scent. It was a lot like his scent, due to their shared blood, but Anastasia had always somehow smelled sweeter than the rest of them did. Her scent was clean and crisp and as Levi inhaled it, he felt himself relaxing slightly. It had been months since the siblings had last run into one another. They had been sent down to Earth together, but they hadn’t landed together. The last time Levi had seen his sister had been the first time since coming to Earth, and their encounter had been brief. Anastasia had been in the forest helping some man who’d been injured. Their reunion had been short and Levi had said his goodbyes before running off. And that was the last he’d seen of his sister.

Levi was tempted to approach Anastasia, but he saw that she was already occupied. Annie was talking with some male, probably another wolf from the pack his sister ran with. Levi had never seen the guy before. Then again, he hadn’t seen a lot of anyone since coming to Earth. Levi was more of a lone wolf than anything. Pack life just wasn’t for him. So, he had spent the majority of his days in the city, people watching, or at home painting an endless amount of scenic portraits. While he didn’t approach his sister, Levi kept his ears open and his senses on red alert. Just because tonight was supposed to be nonviolent didn’t mean that peace was 100% guaranteed. If Anastasia needed him, he would be there. But since she didn’t need him at the moment…Levi allowed his gaze to wander around the room. Nobody in particular caught his interest at first. There were men and woman a plenty, but the majority of them were already in groups. Everyone already had their own friends to worry about. Except for Levi…Or so he thought, until he saw a familiar redhead walk through those double doors.

A smile formed on Levi’s face and before he could think better of it, he was striding across the room and towards the petite auburn haired child that he had come to know well over the last few months. Avery Deadwood may only have been six years old, but she was the best friend that Levi had ever known. Children were so open-minded and optimistic and friendly that it was almost frustrating at times. That was why Levi loved Avery so much. The two of them had met one day in the woods, while Levi had been out hunting to pass the time. Levi had happened upon Avery while she was lying in a meadow, watching the clouds float by. Rather than staring up at the massive wolf in fear, Avery had smiled at him and patted the space beside her, inviting him to join her. From that moment on, Levi had been wrapped around her little finger. The two of them had spent a considerable amount of time together over the last few months and they’d gotten to know each other quite well. That was why it was so natural for Levi to just walk up to Avery and fall into their old patterns.

“Miss Deadwood.” Levi said softly as he bent beside the young girl. He brought Avery’s small hand close to his lips and placed a gentle kiss upon her knuckles. A bright smile spread across Avery’s face when she realized that it was Levi hidden behind those fancy clothes and dark sunglasses. “Hi, Levi!” She exclaimed happily, before throwing herself at the older boy and wrapping her arms around his neck. Levi’s arms wrapped gingerly around her small body for a few moments before he pulled away. Behind the shades his eyes scanned over Avery and he was once again smiling. “You look as beautiful as a princess tonight.” And she really did. Avery’s auburn hair hung down her back in its natural waves. Since she was only a child, there was no makeup or anything else to hinder her natural beauty. She had flawless skin and light pink lips and two big doe eyes that stared up at him adoringly. She was dressed in a [You must be registered and logged in to see this link.] that was bedazzled beyond belief which shone just as brightly as she did. Avery Deadwood was the perfect mixture of her parents and she was the epitome of pure innocence.

Levi seemed to notice the man accompanying Avery for the first time. His eyes widened behind his glasses and Levi immediately climbed to his feet. Although he had never met Bryce Deadwood, Levi knew a bit about him already. He knew that Bryce was Avery’s father. He was the only parent she had, considering her mother had died during childbirth. And it was rumored that he was also very protective. That’s why Levi was cautious when he extended his hand towards Bryce and offered his greeting. “I’m Levi. I’m Avery’s…friend." It sounded weird to say aloud, but that’s what he was. No normal 17 year old boy would have befriended a six year old, but Levi wasn’t normal. His caution was also partly due to the fact that he knew this guy could probably kick his ass if he wanted to. And that would probably be his first instinct when some older guy approached his little girl…But Levi’s intentions were purely honorable. Avery Deadwood was like a little sister to Levi and he would never do anything to hurt her. But just to be on the safe side, Levi didn’t dare mention his last name. The Lucians had a bit of a reputation, and God knew Levi could do without making an enemy of the Deadwood family.

[Pierce Lothington]

Pierce was on his fourth class when Annie approached him, he was sitting in the chair normally and he was staring down at his half empty glass and the empty one below his nose. The beta was basically ignoring everyone and everything around him and just trying to get drunk, he didn't even know why he was here anymore. There were nasty vampires and hybrids here, shifters and other creatures. He didn't want to and he didn't need to be here. Pierce was going to leave just when he heard Annie's voice and he sighed, slowly moving his eyes up from the glasses before him and to her eyes. He turned in his chair and put his arm over the back of the chair and watched her, sitting sideways in the chair now, an eyebrow cocked. "Feeling sorry for rejecting me back in the forest and wanna make it up now by asking me to dance?" Pierce stood up and grabbed his drink, chugging it down in one swallow and setting the glass back down, all while keeping his eyes on Annie. She was beautiful, breathtaking. Almost too gorgeous to stay mad at her and her stutter was too cute and her eyes were precious and her cute little blushing cheeks and... Pierce huffed as he got his thoughts back on track. Annie was so sweet and fragile and beautiful and perhaps someone like her was much too sweet and fragile for someone like Pierce. He wouldn't give himself a chance, either. "You don't have to pretend to you know-" He motioned to the area between them, the about door of space. He stood,  "-you don't have to pretend to want to be my friend now and be whatever with me because I'm over here alone and you feel sorry or bad for me. I don't need your mock sympathy. I'm fine." He prided himself in his ability to lie. "Besides, I wouldn't give me a chance either." He couldn't do this. He couldn't handle this emotions rampage and riot going on inside him, he needed to calm down. He took a deep breath and his hands shook slightly so he slid them into the pockets of his jet black pants, "You're gorgeous and I want to dance with you but I think it's best for you that you don't get too attached to me. I'm not really someone uh.. you'll want to get to know. I have a tendency to break things without meaning to..." He pressed his hands to his thighs from inside the pockets of his pants. He was having an anxiety attack? His form of one anyway... An attack he liked to call his 'emotional riot' and those hardly ever happened but they were pretty bad. He hoped he could just leave or seclude himself for a bit and cool down with a drink or two and be somewhat manageable again and approachable again. He almost hoped someone would ask him what was wrong but he also didn't want someone to ask... He didn't cry in front of people and he hardly cried in general. He just wanted to know someone actually cared and wasn't curious.

Pierce nodded once, his voice lowering so it wouldn't falter or crack and expose his emotion, his whisper to only heard by Annie and barely even then, "I'm sorry..." He dropped his eyes from hers and stepped away from her, heading toward... Hell he didn't know where he was going. Pierce was staring at his feet, head down and eyes down and almost closed as he had tense shoulders and someone knocked into him and he squeezed his eyes shut, his body knocking back and he straightened himself and took a deep, shaky breath and opened his eyes again, met by another person and she ran into him, purposely pressing her breasts against him and he swallows thickly, his teeth pressing together as the movement in his jawline was the only thing moving on his body. He was completely still and trying to hold on to whatever sanity and control he had left. He narrowed his eyes slightly and his eyes turned from olive golden to red, the color waving over his eyes then disappearing as quick as it came. The lady sighed and moved on and Pierce sighed as well, stepping from the group of people to a quiet corner with a door covered by decorations that could be used as an emergency exit. Pierce sighed and leaned his back against the wall, he wanted to dance with her and get to know her and be around her but he was afraid of getting attached, afraid of hurting them or hurting himself, afraid of loss. He was afraid of being hurt again, mostly. He didn't want to loose anyone else, he has no one left and it was crushing him to have no one to go to with his problems or about anything but he didn't know if this was better than lighting the fuse to a bomb. He didn't want to feel his heart get crushed and shattered just after he taped it back together. Some pieces were missing and would always be but with enough tape, it stayed together, somewhat... But now it was tearing at the seams. Was loss and the pain that was sure to come with it worse than the endless, sickening loneliness he felt daily? He had no idea how to tell. He was so scared. He was so alone. Alone and afraid.

Broken.

[Deadwood Boys]

The young man had began to maneuver around the two bedroom apartment, trying to get his daughter ready as she had been in her dress. She was his little Princess, a beautiful one at that. She looked like her mother and that just made Bryce think about... Rory. He didn't wish to go tonight he wanted to shut himself in his room, have Sam perhaps come and take Avery to the ball. However, he couldn't leave his daughter there without him. She had been so excited that he just couldn't disappoint her. He thought back, Rory had came in with the masked stranger, her hair in beautiful red ringlets and she had a dress that made her eyes sparkle. Turning her gaze towards the mirror of the bathroom he had began to run his fingers through his messy locks. Grabbing some gel he began to style it up and then his gaze moved to scratch his stubble. He wasn't sure what he was doing with his life, just trying to support himself and his little girl, soon he would go to the pack. His daughter couldn't live her life not around other wolves her own age. Certainly there was bound to have children in the camp, perhaps Lucas would join them in their new life. He wasn't sure where his brother was, nor what his sister had been up to. However, he knew that this day was going to be hard for her today was when Rory and Sam had gotten ready. Hell, if it wasn't for Rory Sam wouldn't have the guts to have shown up a year ago.

He went towards his bedroom and to the closet where his [You must be registered and logged in to see this link.] was waiting for him to wear. He slipped it on fixing his tie as he gave a low sigh and then looked at himself in the mirror. He began to make his way towards the door telling Avery it was time to go as soon as she was ready. Grabbing her hand she smiled down at him as he began to make his way towards his car, making sure Avery was buckled in the backseat he began to make his way to the area. Moving to the Valet parking he paid the guy as he returned his hand back into Avery's. He had a proud smile on his face, "You're mom would have loved to see you in that dress." He looked up at the sky, "In fact, I believe your mom is smiling down at both of us now." He chuckled softly as they made there way through the thick doors. The band playing a merry tune as he watched Avery take off. He watched her with a close gaze and as soon as a male had began to make his way towards her he moved as well. Watching him with pale blue eyes he gave a low grumble under his breath.

He watched the male straighten himself rather quickly as he realized who the older man was. He watched his extended hand and was a little hesitant but soon enough he placed his own hand in his. As he had explained that he was a friend of Avery he gave a low nod, "Bryce, Avery's father." He didn't know if he knew about him or not, considering the Deadwoods have been around for quite awhile in this town. Of course Henry had moved away but his daughter Maddie had came back to the city where she was born. Trent and Simon had moved back to Canada and now the only Deadwoods who remained was himself, Sam, and the eldest Lucas. He was certain that Lucas would have moved back to Canada to take his place at the head of the pack. Bryce was strong but he wasn't a leader, he was a follower and that's why he was going to go to the pack with Sam. He needed to be with his sister, Lucas did as well but knew he wouldn't be subjected to live under another rule.

(Karma is a Bitch and I lost my post twice (-: )

[Anastasia Lucian]

She had watched him, watch him wallow himself with the champagne as she knew he was trying to get drunk. Anastasia had taken mental notes, she did feel bad for him she wanted to comfort him. That's when her eyes widened at his question. It may have been rhetorical but she answered it by saying softly, "N-No, I-I didn't mean that..." That's when her head slowly moved down to see her sparkly heels, she didn't just come over here to make up for being so rude earlier. She wanted to get to know him better and he was making it difficult and it would appear that the tables had began to turn. She looked back up as he had began to speak once more. "You don't have to pretend to you know-" She saw him motion between them and her gaze shifted upwards as she had to look up. The next part made her gaze sharpen as he went on further "-you don't have to pretend to want to be my friend now and be whatever with me because I'm over here alone and you feel sorry or bad for me. I don't need your mock sympathy. I'm fine." Annie just sighed softly, "W-W-What, She quickly stopped herself so she could talk normally, "I'm not pretending. I don't feel bad for you, you choose to be alone. You choose to have those walls of yours to stay up and not let people in. I've never pretended who I was. She snapped out rather coldly then watched as he began to step away from her.

Why was her eyes starting to water, she gave a low snuff as she refused to let her tears fall instead she looked up and smiled. Her emotions falling away and instead she was happy, she allowed her sadness to fade away. Her eyes moved to meet his own and she was surprised to hear his next words. That's why he was starting to push her away, he didn't want her to get attached, he was afraid that he would break her. She starred at him and just watched the other her bright blues looking away from him as she just nodded lightly, I'm sorry for bothering you. Have a good rest of your evening." Annie didn't even watch him go where ever he was heading she just moved her head up high as she soon stopped.

Sniffing softly she turned to see a familiar form and her eyes widened. Levi... Annie couldn't believe her twin was here. She hadn't seen him since Darrel in the forest and all she wanted to do was feel his familiar and comforting form around her own. The young Lucian walked over to the male and waited till he was finished with Bryce to instantly hug her brother she held onto him and whined in his ear as she nuzzled his shoulder. That's when she moved back and simply punched him right where he was nuzzle, "Why the heck haven't you been in contact with me." She growled lowly, "I thought you went back to the after life..." She said with a soft whine and then she looked him up and down, "You clean up nicely." She giggled softly and then looked around at all the different bachelors and bachelorettes. She then hugged him once again and soon she gave a small frown, "I'll talk to you later, I promise." She said and tried to hold a fake smile as she began to walk off taking a champagne even if she was underage.

She took a sip of the strong stuff as she began to move towards the hallway of the large building away from the music and away from people. She maneuvered her form down the decorated entrance and noticed a few people talking. Annie walked past them sipping on the drink and soon she turned her gaze over towards them noticing the wine that was mixed with blood. Vampires. She gulped and began to turn and walk the other way, "Well, well, well, what do we got here. Pretty little mutt like you gotta man to keep you company." Annie blinked and just began to move away from the other, "N-N-No..." She said, her stutter coming back and the two of them chuckled softly. Soon enough the ring leader had said something and the two other vampires left them, "Now, I usually don't go for little mutts like you. But your just as cute as a puppy." He smirked as he moved to cup her jaw and soon enough moved his hands down her neck and grabbed her wrist as he yanked them upwards, above her head. Pressing his body against his keeping her to the wall. Her eyes widened as she began to whimper, "P-P-Please s-stop..." She cried. That's when she his lips graze against her neck, "Fresh blood is much better than the stuff they give us in that wine." He chuckled and Annie began to struggle to get away from him as she tried to free her hands.

[Kodi R. Lucian]

This was... awkward. Kodi looked himself over in the mirror with a half frown and shook his head. He had never had to wear a monkey suit before and to him it looked weird; the male was used to v-necks and skinny jeans, not the whole [You must be registered and logged in to see this link.] and tie situation. Mumbling something to himself he brushed his bangs back and moved on out of the apartment to go head towards this ball that Clementine had mentioned in her letter. Kodi regretted falling asleep and missing her sneak away but hopefully now, if she really was at this ball, they could finally talk things over. He didn't want her to just walk out of his life too like everyone else had. What would be the point then of being down here on Earth? Living alone the rest of his life wasn't part of the plan. Kodi thought that he had found the one to share it with but she ended up running out on him too; the only person he had left that actually gave a damn about him was Clem.

It was a cold walk but thankfully it wasn't far, no more than two blocks or so, and Kodi walked up the steps to the hall that had been rented out for the evening. Just before going inside, he paused at the door and took in a breath wondering if the shifter he sought would be within these four walls or not. Kodi hoped so more than anything. Finally he opened the door and slipped inside seemingly unnoticed as not more than a handful looked at him which wasn't a big deal to him he was rather glad no one paid attention to him. The scents in here caught him off guard as there were just so many different species in one area, more than he had ever smelled before at a single time. It was almost confusing to his nose. The male straightened his tie and made his way through the crowd to go take a seat next to the buffet table; food, if Clem knew the Lucian boys, and she most certainly did, she'd know to check here first.

[Clementine LockWind]

The shifter began to maneuver through the streets she had recently went on from the male's apartment. She couldn't stay there knowing that he had another choice so she was going to test him. She wanted to know if he wanted to keep her or to keep his search for Micky. Clementine wouldn't mind if he chooses Micky she was after all his first love and they do have a few kids together. She bit at her bottom lip as she went to her apartment and starred at a dress she had chosen for this special occasion. She didn't know what she was doing, how selfish was it for her to make him make a decision. However, he had three months to decide of what he wanted and instead he bought a puppy. Sure, she wasn't around for those three months and had soon came back to the city for her meds. She had picked up this dress a little while ago and wondered if it even would fit. She decided to shower first as she hadn't in a while since living out in the wild. The water felt good on her skin and began to unwind her muscles. She wasn't ready to get out but she did as she eased herself forward a towel wrapped around her and she began to do her hair. It was in large curls as they fell down her bare back and she began to do her make up in a smokey eye effect.

She maneuvered her form towards where the dress was on her bed and gripped on the fabric before dropping her towel and getting into it. She wasn't starred at herself in the mirror her [You must be registered and logged in to see this link.] fitting perfectly. She smiled at herself as she began to move her form away from the mirror and she placed her silver hoops in her ears. She began to move out into the city and whistled for a taxi as she hoped in and told him the address. He sped off in the direction of the ball, she was there in no time and paid the cab affair as she got out. Stepped her silver heels clicking against the pavement as she began to make her way towards where the ball was being held. The marble flooring sparkling as she began to move in the doors and looked around. She starred at the various people in the room and was surprised to smell wolves and leeches in the same room together. She wondered if Kodi was here and she began to move around the area. That's when her eyes widened as she saw him by the buffet station. That wasn't surprising. She began to move to the male her strides slowing as she got closer to the male. She cleared her throat as she gave a shy smile, "Hi... Wasn't sure if you were going to show up or not." She said softly as she starred at him he looked rather stunning in his suit.

[Kodi R. Lucian]

At least the food was good. He had to say that. Not exactly the best but he enjoyed all the snacks and such that had been laid out for them this evening and stood there gobbling them down. Now, the cookies and baked good, those were his favorite that had been prepared. Kodi was a little piggy when it came to those. He just hoped he didn't get anything on his new suit. Looking down he checked just in case and was relieved to find that he hadn't. He could always use this suit again for another occasion or just sell it and get his money back so that he wouldn't be late on rent or other payments due at the end of the month. That would be much better. Licking his lips, he looked the punch over and sniffed trying to see if anything had been added to it; spiked. Kodi enjoyed drugs but tonight he didn't want any. He had to stay sober and clear of mind for when Clementine found him. That thought got him to thinking more so and he just stood there for a long while. What if this was just to get him out of the house and socialize? So he didn't feel so lonely? It could be ruse..."She wouldn't do that to me, would she?" He asked himself quietly and shook his head.

The male was turning around when he noted someone walking towards him as time seemed to slow to a crawl, his eyes moving from the ground where she stepped all the way up to her eyes. Kodi blinked slowly as his grey orbs widened at what he saw. He just couldn't get over how beautiful she looked, it was like he was looking at a completely different Clem. Knowing that he was staring he couldn't exactly help it and eventually snapped back to reality as the shifter spoke and seemed to give him a look-over as well. Kodi just gave a nervous smile of sorts and tucked his hands into his pockets,"Well, here I am." He started out in a light manner and forced a soft chuckle, turning a bit more serious though wasn't completely sure what he should say. He knew what his heart wanted to say but his brain was stopping that from happening. So he just said,"You look gorgeous, Clem." Speaking softly he bit his lip a little as he looked her over again.

[Clementine LockWind]

The shifter just starred at the male unsure if he was really here or perhaps she was just imagining. No, her imagination wasn't that vivid... She noticed that he was looking her over and she gave a small smile. At his words she just gave a light nod, "As am I." She said easily and looked at the crowd of people. She didn't want to talk here, what was there even to talk about. She didn't belong here... She shook her head not knowing why she even came. Though she did know, it had to deal with the man that was right in front of her. A blush crawled against her cheeks as he had called her gorgeous. She didn't look like herself that was for sure and it was strange having an open back dress. Clementine gave a small sigh and began to reach out of her hand but didn't get to far as she dropped it.

She shifted a little and then cleared her throat, "Come on." She told the other as she turned on her feet and began to walk towards the back entrance. There was a marble deck that had stairs that lead to a garden maze. She strode through the grass that was strangely not covered with an inch of snow, it was strange how the elemental users could do that. She moved along the large hedges and waited for Kodi to catch up. Once he did she began to walk beside him her shoulder every now and again brushing against his shoulder with her own. She just continued to walk along the garden it had various twinkling lights on the hedges. The shifter looked at the were wolf beside her and then away, "I'm..." She started out and didn't know if she should continue or not but she did, "Sorry for leaving back at the apartment, I should have woken you up and discuss this. I-I shouldn't have made you choose, this-this was a mistake, I can't make you choose like this." She starred at him and gently grabbed his hand, "Tell me what you want."

[Kodi R. Lucian]

Kodi rocked on his feet gently as they stood there unsure of just what to say to the shifter now. He knew that in her note that his presence here was supposed to represent his choice but it didn't help him strike a conversation; the male feared he'd say something wrong or she'd take it the wrong way. That wasn't what he wanted to happen. Kodi bit his lip a little as they stood there and just nonchalantly looked around them as now things were a bit awkward he had to say. The male's attention was brought back to her thought as she beckoned for him to follow her and like a lost puppy he was right behind the shifter as they made their way through the crowd and outside. It wasn't cold but pleasantly warm and not an flake of snow had laid upon the ground out here. He didn't think too much on it as it was just another distraction. Kodi kept his hands in his pockets as they walked along the lush grass for some time brushing against her every so often but didn't make an attempt to stop it from happening. There was that little voice in his head that was screaming for him not to go through with this but he wasn't listening to it. He wouldn't.

It did, he had to admit, feel somewhat wrong that he was doing this but there was no point in holding onto a ghost or searching for something that would never be there. Why bother if it was going to send him into another pit of depression? His mind had been made up only recently however, after much deep thinking of course and Kodi was certain that this was for the best. If he was ever to forget about her he needed to move on. Surely Clem would help him with that. As they walked deeper into the hedge maze his thoughts raced but seemed to halt completely the moment Clem's voice cut through the air and all attention was solely on her.

Kodi listened but slowly began to shake his head as she apologized for her actions though really they had actually helped him. It forced him to take action and that was what he needed. The Lucian male then felt her take him by the hand and looked up from it to meet her gaze for a few moments before he stared at her lips remembering how soft they were even months later now from that day in the alley. She had been the one to surprise him then, so now it was his turn to do so. Kodi stopped walking and moved closer to the woman in pink, slowly leaning in then finally connected his lips with her own as he held her there for several long moments. Words simply weren't needed when he could easily show her like this just exactly who he wanted. Did it feel wrong? Of course, part of him was still loyal to Micky, but it was a feeling that over time would fade to nothing. Gently, the wolf pulled back and slowly opened his eyes awaiting her reaction.

[Pierce Lothington]

Pierce lifted his head from his hands just to see the familiar blue of the dress the omega was wearing disappear into a hallway, a rather secluded hallway. Pierce straightened slightly as his eyes remained on the area she disappeared in to,  he needed to stop this. Pierce knew he had to stop being like this, stubborn and afraid. He wasn't afraid of much anything and falling in love and getting hurt by doing so... He was terrified of those things. He didn't want to live in some dark, cold and empty world where everyone he touched was cold and hurt him because he made himself believe they did. It was just like touching something with a little heat after being in the cold, the sudden sting and sudden change made you flinch back. He always flinched back. He never gave any man or woman a try because he was simply too cold for their warm love and every single time it never failed to make him flinch back. He needed to talk to Annie, explain some things and hopefully she'd give him another chance. She was just trying to be nice and open up and give him what he wanted or... something and Pierce rudely declined because he was too selfish and worried about his own feelings and well-being. He was still a little mad and a little hesitant and a little... he didn't know what he was. He was mostly mad because he really did think she came to him because he was alone and she felt bad for him and that angered him. If there was one thing Pierce hated more than his father was pity. He couldn't stand people feeling bad for him because he didn't have parents or siblings to anyone to love or to be loved by or because he was abused or angry or alone. He hated pity so much he'd killed almost everyone who ever showed it to him because he thought it'd fill the void he felt but with every killing and every torture session and bad things he's done and how many people he's slept with or how many bottles of booze he's downed, the void couldn't be filled. And he finally knew what could fill that void. Not really something but more someone. He needed love and he needed care, everything he never got and never accepted.

Pierce straightened up and walked through the crowd on the 'dance floor' and he shoved gently and somewhat not gently and he growled and he snapped and finally made his way out of the overwhelming sea of people and toward the hallway, just as he stepped from the initial group of people, Pierce saw two men leaving the hallway Annie just walked in to. Vampires. He instantly registered their smell and his eyes narrowed, he didn't smell blood other than that in the wine and other beverages and Pierce hoped Annie was hurt. No matter how mad he was at someone of his pack he would protect and save then and with Annie it was a different story, she wasn't just a pack member, he genuinely cared about her. Pierce heard the first words of the vampire harassing Annie and growled under his breath, 'Well, well, well, what do we got here. Pretty little mutt like you gotta man to keep you company.' and her reply was no. Pierce sighed, she could've said yes if he... Pierce huffed and shook the thoughts from his mind and came up behind the vampires, his eyes fading from their olive golden to a deep red and he narrowed his eyes. She was being held against the wall, hands above her head and his fangs mere centimeters from piercing her skin. This made Pierce furious no... More than that. More than any anger he's felt in a long time. Someone thought that they could come and swoop in and think they could hurt and take advantage of Annie and her... blood and whatever else in such a way.. It made Pierce's blood boil.  "Actually asshole, she does have a man to keep her company. And that man sure as hell is not gonna be you." He snarled and within seconds he was behind the man, eyes never meeting Annie's as his canine's elongated and he bit into the vampire's neck as if he was a vampire himself. He loved the taste of blood. He was crazy for it. Another set back to all his relationships. Pierce bit into the neck of the vampire, his hands on the guys elbows, well just above them.. And he yanked down, ripping the vampire's hands off Annie and he ripped his head back, bring the vampire's jugular vein and some pieces of neck and veins and blood and things with it. He snarled and as the vampire dropped, of course he'd bleed a lot and maybe even somehow heal up and rise to his feet, Pierce would be with Annie and there was no way anyone else was laying a hand on her.  Pierce dropped the meat and blood from his mouth and finally looked up at Annie, it just now dawning on him that he ripped a man's neck out inches from her. He scanned her quickly, no blood had gotten on her or the dress and he secretly thanked whatever was listening for that. He had blood on his teeth and chin, some on his cheeks and down his neck... He had seconds before the blood slid down his neck and got his white shirt... All red. He stepped back and pulled his blazer off and wiped his neck with his hand and glanced at Annie, frowning softly and clenching his jaw; eyes still red but his canines had vanished. "I really didn't mean to... It just happened and I promise I'm not...." He couldn't lie and say he wasn't a monster... He was. He was a coldhearted, selfish and broken monster. He was a wounded animal and wounded animals are always the most violent.

[Thane Dracalla]

Thane had decided that he needed to try and be more social since he was still not talking to members of the pack much unless he was needed to. He had actually bought some decent clothes for this too since he needed to at least put up a good image of himself for them. He didn't like public events since the crowds were too much trouble for him to have to watch all the time, but yet again this was something he needed to start doing more so here he was standing just out side the building in a black tux with a dark green vest and tie, his under shirt was even black on top of it all. He had cuff links that were embedded with dark green gemstone to match the vest and tie and his hair was even slicked back. His height usually made him stand out on it's own but now the suit and the sour look on his face made him stand out like a sore thumb.

Sighing he walks into the building and gradually makes his way to the ballroom to join the other guests there and as he enters through the double doors he steps off to the side right away to not have to greet people. Taking his time he makes his way through the crowd and finds an empty table to take that is at the edges of the activity in the ballroom, taking a seat with the wall at his back just to help with his comfort level at this point. He stopped one of the staff at the event who was carrying around a drink tray and picks a glass of whisky off of it and just to be nice gives them a small tip before he takes a drink of the alcohol and scans the room to see if he could pick out anyone he knew from the pack which wasn't very many people.

[Clementine LockWind]

Clem continued on her high heels digging into the grass slightly as she continued on. She was walking rather slow as the silence continued to drag. She just wanted him to say something, hell, even breathe loudly that would at least give a sign that he was actually trying to talk to her. Her shoulder brushed even more on him as he didn't seem to mind and then she slowly took a small step away. She was feeling bad about this, Kodi belonged to someone else. Someone he truly loved, he couldn't love her back... At least that's what Clem had thought. There was no way that this... Marvelous and incredible male could ever love a girl who was nothing, had nothing.

As they had stopped and his attention was to her she just starred into those beautiful Steele eyes that reminded her of a shiny new quarter. He didn't say anything for a while and she was afraid that he would tell her that he couldn't be with her. Tell her that she was just their family pet there was no way he could see past that. Her eyes slowly looked down at their hands as she had forgotten they were in his own. It was just a reaction and his hands were so warm it melted her heart.

That's when she watched as he began to walk over towards her. She felt him lean in his chest against his own as she soon felt the soft flesh of his lips connect to her own. She just... Her eyes were wide and soon they closed as she pushed forward to kiss him back. Her hand slowly slipped upwards to gently cup around his neck as she pulled him closer towards her. Clementine then felt as he began to move away from her and she eased her eyes open as she gave a soft smile. Her eyes bright as she moved forward and touched his cheek, "I-I... I understand your decision." She said easily her cheeks going from light pink to bright red, even her ears as she just looked down sheepishly.

[Kodi R. Lucian]

He had never been good with words, never a smooth talker, probably one reason why he wasn't as active as his older brother who seemed have a golden tongue. Hell, he never was the one to make the first move either. In both instances the girls had. Kodi couldn't help but wonder what either of them had seen in him; he was average, average looking, average all around and there was nothing special about him. He just didn't see himself as desirable. Low self esteem at its finest. 'But... would this count as a first move? No, no. She made it months ago. In the alley.' Kodi was a little conflicted but as quick as the thought came in, it went right out so that he could focus more on what was going on right now. At first he had thought about just making it something quick but before he could pull back he felt her lean into it more which of course kept him there for a few moments longer. It was... It just felt right.

Kodi let go of her hands as she moved one up to his neck and placed his own on either of her sides just going with whatever he felt despite everything; he had to move on. He had to. Clem was here now and that was all that mattered. She was here for him and wasn't going anywhere any time soon. Kodi had gently pulled back to watch the shifter who seemed to flare up in a cute red which in turn made him smile and chuckle softly. He didn't intend to make her blush that hard but damn she was adorable when she did.

The male stayed where he was grinning down at her till he caught himself staring and quickly stopped by clearing his throat a little and bit his lip in thought. This, this was real. It just hit him and he hadn't noticed how his heart had picked up speed till right about now. And he was sure her's was beating just as fast."Um, so is.. Is this..." He started out softly and fidgeted a little,''Are we..." Kodi was confused and wasn't sure if he should ask or not; but he did want to know."Does this make us... you know, an item?" Finally getting the question out, he swallowed as he waited for what she had to say.

[Anastasia Lucian]

The she-wolf had her eyes bright with worry as he continued to hold her to the wall. She just wanted to get away from him his breath tickled her neck and then she felt... His teeth. Fangs actually against his skin as he was just about to break it when they both turned her gaze towards a low growl and her eyes widened. Pierce... Why was, how did, what? She just starred at the male as he began to walk towards them hearing his voice she instantly cringed and she backed herself up against the wall even more. The vampire flashed his fangs, "Oh, is this your little mutt?" He asked with a smirk, "Then again, I don't really believe you if you told me she was. Pretty thing like her..." He looked at him and then outlined her jawline as well as moved to press his free hand around her neck as she instantly began to loose her flow of oxygen. She starred at him with bright pleading eyes and that's when she saw Pierce come and sink his fangs deep into his neck. The Vampire practically screamed in agony as he felt his arms rip away from her. Dropping her arms and allowing her to receive the air she desperately needed.

She watched the other and it was just so fast her eyes were widened and she was well... Afraid. She watched him yank his head back and bring the male's jugular away from his frontal neck. Blood so much blood. The crazed look he saw in the male werewolf's eyes were... They were just... Dark and scary. Blazing red as she backed herself deeper into the wall. She just looked at him and her heart pounded in her chest and that's when he looked at her. Blood covering his chin and neck and his shirt that was once white now stained with his victims blood. As he continued to look at her the words that left out of his mouth practically broke her heart. He was scared, a vulnerable male that just needed... Love and some care. She took in a deep breath, as the sweet and practically innocent little omega did something she would have never done before. She slowly took his blood covered hand into her delicate and soft touch as she slowly moved him forward. She didn't really care and had went into the girls bathroom.

Annie didn't say anything just watched him for a few seconds before she sat him down on the counter. Wetting a few towels as there were a few washcloths instead of paper towels she pushed it under the warm water. Hands going upwards she began to clean his face of the vampire's blood. Moving around his face and his neck as she wiped his hands as well. Turning her gaze upwards towards him she just gave an easy smile, "Thank you, beta." She said easily as she touched his now clean cheek and rubbed her thumb along his cheekbone, "I'm sorry if I made you upset earlier. I just really wanted to get to know you better instead of having made an instant judgement on you." Slowly her hand dropped back to her side as she just stood their now noticing he was inbetween his legs and slowly took a step back.

[Pierce Lothington]

He just ripped the throat out of some creature and inches from the precious and fragile omega... Pierce's eyes were down and his head was turned to the earth, the floor design now seemed to be the only thing he wanted to ever see again. He couldn't believe he just did that. Pierce was the one being the scared and fragile, vulnerable pack wolf with his head down and his imaginary tail tucked. He was ashamed, sickened. He was anxious and panicking. He needed air. He couldn't breathe. Air. Pierce's hands started to shake and just as he went to make a pathetic leave and leave her there dazed and even more vulnerable and afraid than she was before, he felt her. He felt her hands on his, holding his. He looked up from the ground at her eyes and then to their hands and he was confused. He was afraid of what she was going to say or do, he didn't even know what he expected or wanted her to say. His chest was rising and falling rather quickly, he didn't even notice his breathing had slightly quickened when he began to silently panic. No one knew he did that. No one knew he had anxiety and panic attacks. A werewolf like him shouldn't have those, that's what he always told himself. Another thing that set him aside from the rest. His fingers curled around hers distinctively as he tried to still their shaking and he managed to do so, but just slightly. It was a soft rattle type shake now, a shudder or jitter almost. He closed his eyes quickly and took a deep breath, listening to the sounds of the voices and music playing, focused on the smells... Blood. He ignored the smells. His hands gradually stilled throughout their travel to the girls bathroom, he didn't care about going in there. Pierce watched her with confused and vulnerable, soft and normal colored eyes, standing in the middle of the entryway of the girls bathroom.

He glanced around the restroom, examining the floor tiles and wallpaper, random wall decorations and the sink counter. His head and eyes went back to her as she eased him back onto the counter and he went without fighting. He wouldn't fight anything she did or said. He didn't feel like he could. He watched her wet the towels and then turned back toward him and he kept his eyes down, she cleaned up his face and neck and he allowed her to move his head and neck and hands and arms anyway she pleased. She was scared back there and now she was cleaning him up like they were the best of friends... Was it because as an omega is was kind of like her duty to clean up messes? No matter what kind? Or was she really being genuinely nice and helping him from the bottom her heart? When his hands were cleaned up, they went to each other near his naval, between his body and hers. She was close to him and he didn't  mind and didn't really notice. His hands were fidgeting with one another and his eyes were intent on watching them, even as her thumb ran over his now cleansed skin. She was thanking him... For what? Scarring her for life? Pierce sighed softly and looked up to meet her eyes, "You were scared. I saw it in your eyes. You were scared of me, you're scared of me..." He whispered the last part and lowered his eyes again. His hands were still and at his sides and resting on his thighs now as he watched her backup. Instant judgement... His whole life had relied on instant judgement. Everyone judged him and did it as fast as they possibly could manage. Pierce only shrugged at that, "It's fine. Doesn't matter." He murmured and his eyes saw her dress and the outline of the legs beneath the fabric as they stepped back and he looked back up at her. He wanted her close. He frowned softly and clenched his jaw, looking back down. "I should go..." He stated but made no effort to go. He needed to figure himself out and what he wanted and stop denying himself and feelings right now or he'd be lost again for years and never found again for a long while.

[Clementine LockWind]

Clementine didn't know what she was feelings, she felt betrayal for running back to him but it was mixed with a fire-like passion as it dared not to be put out. Then there was a tiny bit of hopelessness knowing that she couldn't get attached. As soon as he found Micky she would be back to getting scraps under the table like a good dog she was. "Good dog" such a strange compliment, she wasn't good how could she be good. Keeping her hand near his neck as her fingers gripped to a few stray hair she felt as his hands moved. Feeling the heat of his hand against her hips as the fabric of her dress swayed gently as the wind nipped a little.

She felt his lips draw back away from her own as she was just starring over at him. Her breath caught for a few minutes as she soon began to breathe normally. Did that just happen, his kiss made her knees weak and toes curl, her heart soar. Damn it! Why did he have to make her feel like this, feel so vulnerable. She moved to have her face against his chest to just stay there in his arms before she slowly pulled away as he began to speak.

She tilted her head wishing he would just spit out what he wanted to tell her. She gave a small frown as he asked if they were... an item. Practically gnawing at her bottom lip as she just looked down sheepishly she finally just shrugged, "Kodi?" She said softly as she moved to place her finger under his chin to indicate looking up at her, "You haven't asked me... So I can't answer your question." She told the other, never wavering her gaze with his own even though she placed her hand away from him. Clementine then gave a small frown as she moved to back away from him, "I'm scared... What if she comes back, where would that leave me?" She asked and then shook her head, "I can't be your dog anymore."

[Zoey Carlile]

Her small hands ran over her slender form. Am I pretty enough? Did the dress look good on me? Should I put on more make up? Take off the make up? Maybe some lipstick? Maybe some higher heels? Earrings? These questions swam throughout her mind as Zoey ran her pale fingers through her long, brown locks before she pulled it into a bun with some loose strands cupping her face.. Tonight had to be perfect. Zoey had to be perfect-for Sam. If Samantha could see Zoey in the dress, and all fancy, and hopefully looking pretty, then maybe Sam would love Zoey like the girl loved the woman.

Smoothing down the [You must be registered and logged in to see this link.] once more, Zoey took deep breathes before she stepped out of the Woman's bathroom and crept down the stairs, heading into the ball room. "Relax." She whispered to herself, and raised a hand to her breast and felt the knife that was hidden underneath her right boob. She felt safer with it, and had planned to kill at least one person tonight. Batting her mascara coated eyelashes, Zoey moved herself towards the punch table, and brushed some of the loose hair behind her ear and turned her back to the dancing supernaturals, trying to concentrate on her breathing-she was nervous. But only because she felt stupid in the dress, and felt stupid for thinking she could ever be pretty.

She was too fat and ugly to ever be pretty, and felt idiotic to think that she could walk in a room full of beautiful people and expect others to think of her as pretty too. My hair is flat, has no pretty bounce to it, my eyes too big, my nose oddly shaped, my face too weird, my body too plumpy-my boobs aren't huge, and I'm blind. Great. I'm the ugliest wolf here. Biting the bottom of her peach colored lips, Zoey twirled some of her loose hair around her finger and contemplated her options-she just wanted to be swept across the room in Sam's arms, but she couldn't smell Sam;the woman probably wasn't even here and instead was fucking Dante while her "daughter" was over at some ball, wasting her time. She sighed and turned back around, wrapping her arms around her waist as she breathed in all the scents.

[Levi Lucian]

Levi, slightly intimidated by Bryce, excused himself as soon as possible. He liked Avery and all, but he wasn’t comfortable being around many other people. Aside from the Deadwood girl and his siblings, Levi had no real use for others. He preferred solitude. In fact, he wasn’t sure why he’d come to the ball tonight. He wouldn’t have even considered going to the event if his young friend hadn’t gone on and on and on about it. Levi supposed he’d come only for Avery, who had a special place in his heart. Levi was drawn to her like a moth to a flame, because essentially they were the same. Surrounded by people, yet so alone.

This was a waste of time. He thought this to himself as he walked away from the middle of the room and towards the doors. He felt absolutely ridiculous, all dressed up and surrounded by a hundred or more strangers, all of whom seemed so different from him. He should have just stayed home and painted or read a book or watched a movie. The only reason he’d even come tonight was because of Annie, who he had known would want to attend such an event. And as her twin, Levi felt protective over the girl, and responsible for her. He’d do anything for his other half, even if that meant putting up with parties like this one.

He’d moved towards the door quickly, so quickly that he didn’t see the smaller girl in front of him. Levi collided with the girl roughly, but his arms snapped out and wrapped around her small form to steady the both of them. “Oh shit, I’m sorry.” He exclaimed, bending down to check her out and make sure she was alright. “I didn’t see you there.” He explained, his dark eyes finally snapping back up to her face when he saw no sign of injury. Levi straightened and looked down at the pretty young girl, who was donning an elegant purple dress. She looked…different. Good different, not bad different. And although Levi had initially planned on leaving, he found his plans changing rather quickly.

[Zoey Carlile]

She was lost in her own thoughts, completely gone. Her mind wandered to her history as she touched a hand to her lips. She had always been abandoned,  left behind, unloved. Samantha was the only one who cared, but Sam was being swept off her feet by Sotu's werewolf alpha, Dante, and now Zoey felt more alone than ever. Sighing, the girl let her eyes close just for a second before she fluttered them open and breathed everyone in once more-

And then someone ran right into her. Literally. Who ever it was hadn't been paying attention, and smacked right into the smaller girl. She had begun to fall backwards when hands shot out, wrapped around her, and steadied the two wolves. Her hands griped the fabric of his suit tightly, her face red, eyes wide and her mouth agape slightly.

Once sure she wouldn't fall right on her ass, Zoey slowly pulled away and smoothed down her dress once more, which was becoming a bad habit. She touched her hair to make sure it was still in a neat bun, and gulped. His voice was sweet. She was unsettled by the gentleness of it, and nodded furiously. "No, no, it's okay. I'm fine, I swear.." She murmured, and suddenly really wished she wasn't blind. It sucked not being able to know where to look and ended up hoping that she was glancing up at his face and not his chin or something. All the girl knew was that this male towered her, and he had a kind voice. "It's okay- I'm not really eye catching so I can't blame you for not seeing me." She offered a small smile, and restrained herself from pulling out her knife and stabbing the male wolf in the gut.

[Levi Lucian]

Levi watched as the girl preened a bit, making sure everything was rightly in place as it had been before he’d run into her. Her small hands smoothed down the material of her purple dress before brushing against her dark hair for a moment, which was pulled back into a neat bun. Luckily he hadn’t roughed her up too much. Her appearance was still just as lovely as it had been before. Every hair on her pretty little head was still perfectly in place.

When the girl spoke, Levi was relieved to hear that he hadn’t hurt her. She just looked so fragile compared to him. For being only seventeen years old, Levi was kind of massive. He was a few inches over six feet tall, and he was rather beefy although he still managed to look rather long and gangly. And then there was this girl, who was smaller than him in every way imaginable. She was small and she was slender and she was short, or at least short compared to him. Levi felt like a freaking bull in a china shop.

“Not eye-catching? I beg to differ.” Levi laughed and shook his head, his blue eyes settling on the girl. She was the epitome of eye-catching. It wasn’t just because she was pretty, which she was. Pretty in a very subtle way. The kind of beauty that didn’t need a ton of makeup to enhance; it was a natural beauty. But that was not all that made her stand out. She was different. There was something about her that Levi could not quite put his finger on. She looked so fragile, but she also looked strong. And yet behind her strength was something sadder, something darker. Everything about this girl that called out to Levi. His eyes met hers, and for the first time Levi realized that she wasn’t seeing him. He’d come across plenty of blind people in his day. And although she looked him in the eye, there was something in her stare that was just sort of blank. She was the first blind wolf that Levi had ever come across. “My name is Levi. What’s yours?” He asked softly, stepping closer to the girl as he waited for her answer.

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