Chapter Text
Chapter Seven.
Imogen stared at her reflection, trying to ignore the press of the bite guard against her face as she smoothed her fingers over the details. It was molded leather, made to fit the dimensions of her face and as her blunt nails caught across the red thread that spread across her right cheek, Imogen couldn’t help but wonder just how long she would have to wear it. It was comfortable enough, lightly padded where it rested against her cheekbones and the straps that held it on were elastic enough to not tug but she couldn’t escape just how much it felt like a fucking muzzle.
Tearing her eyes away from her reflection, Imogen glanced down at her phone to check the time before forcing herself out of the bathroom. It was already almost nine and she had to be at the community center by ten at the latest. Grabbing her bag off the back of her desk chair as she went, Imogen stopped long enough to slip her shoes on before taking an unneeded breath and leaving the room, intent on meeting her friends in the kitchen. The house was bright when she stepped out into the hallway, seemingly buzzing with excitement that she kept trying to feel instead of the anxiety twisting in her guts. Fearne had told her that the meeting lasted an hour, broken up into thirty minute sections for different activities and that even while there was some social aspect of it, no one would judge her for clinging to her House mates if she chose to. “I can do this.” Imogen mumbled to herself as she started down the back kitchen stairs. She stopped as she reached the open door, the loud brassy sound of Ashton laughing at something drawing a smile to her face and Imogen took another slow breath, closing her eyes to let the information wash over her. Ashton, Orym and Fearne were in the kitchen with Dorian either farther away or he had been there recently. She tried to smile but the motion caused the bite guard to shift against her face and Imogen bit back a sigh of frustration at the feeling.
Before she could try anything as drastic as ripping the thing off, Ashton appeared in the doorway to the stairs and grinned at her before waving her forward. “C’mon dude, you need to have a snack before we leave.” Ashton said and as much as she wanted to argue, she knew they were right. Walking carefully down the last few stairs, Imogen stepped into the kitchen and looked around, smiling a little when she saw her friends scattered through the kitchen. Making her way over to the fridge, Imogen found Orym in the process of measuring out two servings of a very pink smoothie.
“Sleep good?” Orym asked as Imogen pulled the fridge open. She shrugged as she pulled the drawer labeled with her name open and grabbed one of the packets at random.
“Slept alright.” Imogen said, grabbing another packet and dropping it into her bag. “Didn’t even wake up today.” Orym stared up at her for a moment before he smiled.
“No mid-day feed?” He asked and Imogen shook her head no, stabbing the metal straw through the top of the packet and slipping it through the bars across her mouth. “That’s a good sign that your maturation is almost finished. Are you excited to get out of the house?”
“Am I ever?” Imogen mumbled around the straw, earning her a laugh from the smaller man. “I jus’ wanna go an’ get this over with. One down, fifty one to go.”
“They aren’t so bad.” Orym said, smiling up at her. “And the community center is great. I know tonight’s likely going to be largely talking about the community events coming up so that’ll be fun.” Imogen stared at him for a moment as she took a long drink before sighing through her nose.
“Do I gotta go to them?” Imogen asked, fighting back another sigh when Orym nodded.
“It won’t be so bad,” Orym said, reaching out to pat her on the hip. “The Halloween events are usually really fun and you know that at least most of us will be there with you.”
“There’s also a costume contest.” Fearne said, walking over to join them with a smile. “And live music and foot races.”
“Races?” Imogen asked, earning her a chuckle from Orym. “Why foot races?” Fearne grinned at her before reaching around her to grab something off the top of the fridge.
“Vamp’s aren’t the only ones who like to move fast.” Fearne said, tucking a small bottle of something into her pocket. “There’s even tug of war games too and carnival games and rides. Think kind of like the fair I took you to a few years ago.” Imogen stared up at her for a few minutes before she sighed and shook her head.
“Sounds fun.” Imogen said dryly. “As long as it counts towards the overall number of meetin’s I gotta go to then I’ll go. If it’s optional, count me out.” Fearne pouted at her for a moment but Orym waved a hand between them.
“If we’re all ready, we should get going.” He said before he glanced around. “Chetney and Laudna are meeting us there.” There were nods around the group and Imogen fell into step with Fearne as they all made their way down to the portal room. Morri met them there, a wide smile stretched across her face that Imogen couldn’t help but return.
“Stick together.” Morri told them as they gathered around her. “And Imogen if you could come here for a moment.” Imogen blinked before stepping forward, her free hand coming up to wrap around the strap of her bag out of habit. Morri shifted as she came closer, one hand disappearing into the pocket of her dress before it came back out holding a small, silver pin. She reached out once Imogen was close enough, pinning the little silver thing to the left strap of her tank top before stepping back. “Keep this on.” Morri said, meeting Imogen’s eyes. “It will tell all who look at you just what kind of wrath they would be incurring should they choose to be foolish.” Imogen nodded and glanced down at the pin, taking in the well wrought details as it gleamed in the light from the portals. It was a flowing sort of thing, a long silver thread came down from what looked like a spindle, winding between a pair of fingers only to flow down to rest between the blades of a pair of shears. Imogen stared at it for a moment before she glanced up at Morri.
“Isn’t silver bad for vampires?” Imogen asked, a smile spreading across her face. To her surprise Morri chuckled and patted her on the shoulder.
“It’s mithril.” Morri said, chuckling at the way Imogen’s eyebrows rose. “Yes it is real. Yes there are shirts made of it though they are horribly expensive. I would never attempt to give you anything I know would hurt you.” Imogen stared at her for a moment before she nodded and Morri stepped back. “Now, you all have somewhere to be.” She walked over to the wheel then and Imogen turned, eying similar pins resting in the same places on her friends. As the portal in front of them changed to a wide street lit by glowing gaslights, Imogen took an unneeded breath and followed her friends, hoping silently that the meeting would go quickly.
_______________________________________________________________
Laudna swore under her breath as she stumbled out of the truck, closing the door once she had righted herself before all but running towards the building. It was ten minutes after ten now but traffic getting here had been nearly impossible and she couldn’t help but hope that she hadn’t missed too much already. Morri didn’t ask her to do things often and if the boss wanted them all there, who was she to complain?
Entering the building, Laudna ignored the people milling about as she made her way towards the meeting room and tried to slip in as quietly as possible. The speaker was already at the lectern, rattling off the list of upcoming events though he acknowledged her with a glance as she carefully made her way towards the group she was supposed to be with. Ashton looked over at her as she reached the last open chair beside Chetney and she heard them grumble, “Thank fuck she made it.” Fearne turned in her chair then, greeting Laudna with a grin and wave before gesturing to the little vampire sitting between them. Laudna nodded as she took her seat, crossing one knee over the other before turning her attention to the speaker, trying to pay attention to events that she wouldn’t be going to. After twenty minutes or so, Chetney leaned into her space and Laudna fought the urge to sigh.
“You alright kid?” Chetney asked and Laudna nodded, still stubbornly trying to pay attention. “New girl’s jumpier than a hare in a box. Seems like a good kid though.” Unable to help herself, Laudna looked over at the little vampire, smiling a little when she saw her leaning into Fearne’s side, one hand bunched in the fabric of the faun’s blouse.
“It is all a lot to take in.” Laudna murmured, not looking over at Chetney. She hesitated for a moment before she asked, “Which of the packs are here?” To her surprise, the old man snorted before lifting his bottle and spitting out a mouthful of brown liquid.
“The usual crowd.” Chetney said and Laudna finally sighed. “No one’s gonna start shit tonight though, not with the whole gang here.”
“It’s never stopped them before.” Laudna muttered, any feigned enthusiasm she might have been able to muster fading. “And the others can’t get involved in pack business, you know that.”
“You have a right to be here just as much as they do.” Chetney grumbled, a hint of a grow creeping into his voice. “If those whippersnappers try anythin’, I’ll tan their hides.” Laudna glanced over at him then, affection swelling in her chest at the serious look on his weathered face and she smiled.
“Let’s hope it doesn’t come to that.” Laudna said quietly, shaking her head. She glanced at the little vampire again and sighed. “It wouldn’t do to make a poor first impression.” Chetney chuckled before leaning back over into his seat and Laudna sighed.
“That concludes the community event section of the evening,” The speaker said, glancing around the room with a smile. “But before we move on, I see some new faces in the crowd. Why don’t we go around and do introductions so that we can properly welcome our newest members.” There was a murmur through the crowd and one by one, Laudna watched people she had never seen before standing up to introduce themselves. Just as a gangly, beardless little werewolf finished stumbling his way through a quick introduction, the speaker turned to their group. “And you are?” He asked, gesturing to the little vampire and Laudna couldn’t help but glance at her again. She watched as the little vampire untangled herself from Fearne, heard her take a deep breath, (A sure sign that she was new, Vampires never breathed) and stood up.
“I’m uh, I’m Imogen.” The little vampire said and Laudna felt herself smile. “Imogen Temult of the House of Fate.” The speaker smiled at her before gesturing for her to sit back down and once she had, he turned to the crowd.
“Now, unless anyone has anything they would like to share, feel free to mingle and thank you all for coming.” A moment passed before the various sitting groups all started to stand and the sound of shifting chairs filled the room but before Laudna could try and make a run for it, Ashton turned to her.
“You were late.” They said bluntly and Laudna sighed. “You’re never late, for anything. You ok dude?” Laudna froze, realizing the chairs around her had moved now to as Fearne turned to her too, followed by Imogen.
“Traffic.” Laudna said, trying to meet Ashton’s eyes and not glance at the smaller woman again. “Got held up by a pair of moorbounders having a bit of a tussle in the middle of the road. They looked quite young though and I didn’t see a saddle on either of them.”
“What’s a moorbounder?” Imogen asked, getting Laudna’s attention. Large violet eyes met hers and Laudna stared for a moment before she remembered that she had been asked a question.
“A type of large cat, sort of.” Laudna said, shifting in her chair. “They look rather like tailless panthers if you can ignore the tusks. Fascinating creatures really.”
“You like most things that can eat you.” Fearne said, rolling her eyes affectionately before she turned to Imogen. “Nana doesn’t keep any captive but there are a handful in the swamp. If you’re real quiet at night, you can hear them sometimes.” Imogen glanced up at Fearne, her eyes going wide.
“There are panther things in the swamps? Like the swamps around the house?”
“They’re harmless mostly.” Laudna said, getting Imogen’s attention. “They’re intelligent enough to stay away from where the majority of people are, though you should be careful should you venture into the swamps alone. They are rather opportunistic hunters and don’t typically baulk at going for a person.” Imogen stared at her for a moment before she nodded slowly.
“Be careful in the swamp at night.” Imogen said softly and Laudna couldn’t help but smile. A moment later the little vampire sighed and turned to Asthon. “How much longer do we gotta stay?”
“Twenty eight minutes.” Ashton said, rolling their eyes fondly. “You’ll survive. If you can make it through, we can drop you off at home before the rest of us head over to Iron and Wine.” Imogen blinked at them before she huffed, slumping down in her seat and crossing her arms across her chest. Fearne glanced over at Laudna then and smiled.
“Do you want to come to the bar with us?” Fearne asked and Laudna felt a sharp panic rise in her as she shook her head no, earning her a gentle laugh from the faun. Fearne glanced between her and Imogen for a moment before she smiled. “Are you going straight home after this Laudna?” Laudna blinked at her before taking a slow breath to attempt to slow her racing heart.
“That was my intention.” Laudna said softly and she smiled apologetically. “I’m not exactly the ‘going out’ sort though I do appreciate the invitation.” Fearne nodded before patting Imogen on the knee.
“Would you mind taking Imogen with you? She’s about as fond of being out of the house as you are.” Laudna blinked before glancing over at the vampire only to find her looking down at her hands, refusing to meet Laudna’s eyes.
“I wouldn’t mind.” Laudna heard herself say, her words coming out quietly. “Imogen, would you be comfortable riding with me?” The vampire looked up then, her violet eyes meeting Laudna’s and she nodded a little.
“I wouldn’t mind.” Imogen said quietly and she shifted in her chair, her bag banging against the legs as she readjusted. “Is it a long drive?”
“About an hour and a half out of town, depending on traffic.” Laudna said and Imogen nodded, a little smile spreading across her face. “Though I would just as happily escort you back to the portal if you’d rather do that.” Imogen stared at her for a moment before she shook her head no.
“I’d rather ride.” Imogen said honestly and Laudna felt the corners of her mouth twitch up into the beginnings of a smile. “The portal’s are great, don’t get me wrong but… A good drive sounds nice right now.”
“That’s settled then!” Fearne said happily and Laudna couldn’t help the way her eyes narrowed at the look on the other woman’s face. “Maybe you can take her around and show her some of the animals or-,”
“Fearne, it’s almost eleven o’clock.” Imogen said, a little smile spreading across her face. “Most of the animals are gonna be sleepin’.” She glanced over at Laudna then, her little smile not fading. “Thanks for the ride.”
“Wait so neither of you are coming to Iron and Wine?” Orym asked, leaning around Ashton to look over at them with a little frown. “Getting out of the house would be good for you. Both of you.” Laudna frowned at him but before she could say anything, Imogen huffed.
“I am outta the house Orym.” Imogen said, gesturing around them with one hand before she sighed and shook her head. “This is… still a lot. There’s so much noise an’ new smells an’ honestly, it’s startin’ to make my head hurt.” As if the world was attempting to make her point, loud laughter rose from one of the groups, devolving into something more akin to howls and Laudna clenched her teeth to stop a growl from escaping her. Chetney, older and with less appreciation for the societal implications, did growl as he turned his attention to a gathering of werewolves towards the back of the room.
“Will you fucks keep it down?” Chetney asked loudly, standing up in his chair to face them. “Howlin’ like fuckin’ animals is rude when your in a mixed space and you lot know it!” The werewolves tittered again before one swaggered forward, casting a disdainful glance at where Imogen sat between Ashton and Fearne.
“Can’t blame us.” He said, smiling wide enough to reveal the points of his teeth and Laudna finally glanced over, feeling her hackles rise. “Life ain’t quiet so why don’t you fetch the vamp some ear plugs instead of botherin’ us?” He took another step closer to them and Laudna felt her muscles tense, ready to pounce at a moment’s notice before a solid, rough hand wrapped around her knee. Looking over, she saw Ashton’s hand resting on her knee, squeezing hard enough to ground her. Their milky green eyes met hers and Ashton shook their head no once before squeezing again. The werewolf turned his attention to Laudna then, his disdainful smile curling into a sneer. “Got a problem with that foul blood?” The name was spat out with such vitriol that Laudna fought the urge to recoil, panic rising in her as more werewolves turned to watch the confrontation. To her surprise, Chetney laughed, the sound loud enough to drag her attention back to him and she fought the urge to flinch at the feeling wafting off of him.
“Don’t you fuck’s ever get tired of trying to pick a fight with her?” Chetney asked, fixing his eyes on the apparent leader of this little group before gesturing at Laudna. “See that little pin she’s wearing? ‘Less you pricks want your Alpha’s to get a visit from Lady Morrigan, I suggest you fuck off.” The werewolves glanced over at her again, the sneer on the leader’s face fading somewhat as they stared and Laudna fought the urge to look away. She could smell the youth on him, and under the hormone induced bravado, the sharp stink of fear. “Why don’t you an’ your littermates wander off now like the good little pups you are.” Chetney said, his words coming out with a growl. A tense moment passed as growls rose from the little group at Chetney’s insult but after a moment, they turned and walked away. Chetney turned in his chair and looked over at Laudna.
“You ok kid?” Laudna blinked at him, aware suddenly of all eyes on her before she nodded quickly. and Shaking Ashton’s hand off and trying to fight down the roiling in her gut, she stood.
“I need some air, excuse me.” She bolted for the door before any of them could try and stop her, not stopping until she burst through the front doors and made a beeline for the alley next to the building, breathing out a sigh of relief as she stepped into the shadows, walking deeper in and not stopping until her back rested against the weathered brick. Laudna closed her eyes, breathing hard through her open mouth to try and get herself under control. Other than some words, nothing had happened and this certainly wasn’t the worst interaction she had ever had with one of the packs but… The words stung, just as they always had. Foul Blood, cursed blood. Monster.
Tipping her head back against the weathered brick, Laudna clenched her eyes closed and dug the fingers of her unscarred hand into the brick in a vain attempt to keep herself grounded but it was no use. Already her thoughts were spiraling into images of examination tables, overlaid with the dripping and beeping sounds of some equipment combined with multiple screaming voices and she could feel the scars on her wrists burn with the memory of restraints. She had never asked to be this, her path in life fractured and warped beyond her own control and-
Cool fingers gently brushed hers and Laudna opened her eyes with a gasp, instinctively jerking away from the touch. “Sorry.” A soft voice said and she blinked, breathing hard as the form of Imogen came into view. The vampire stared up at her for a moment before holding out her hand. Laudna stared at it for a moment before slowly extending her own, wincing internally at the size difference between the two. Her hand looked almost skeletal next to Imogen’s, too long and too wide to belong to anything but the monster they had made her into.
Fingers closed around hers then and Laudna felt Imogen’s thumb brush across her knuckles. For a long moment, neither of them spoke and Laudna let herself focus on the feeling of Imogen’s thumb as it brushed across her knuckles. It was a nice feeling, Laudna thought as her breathing finally slowed back to a more acceptable level and she glanced down to watch as the tip of Imogen’s thumb traced the gap between the knuckle of her middle and ring fingers before running once again across the prominent bone. A moment later, Imogen glanced up at her, a serious look on her pretty face.
“Are you back?” Imogen asked and Laudna blinked at her, confusion rising in her. Imogen’s thumb faltered a little and Laudna heard her breath out a sigh. “That… Forgive me if I’m wrong but… That looked an’ awful lot like a panic attack. Or a PTSD episode. Are you… Are you ok?” Laudna blinked at her again before she sighed and nodded a little, her hair falling into her face from the motion.
“I’ll be fine.” Laudna said quietly. She eyed Imogen for a moment before shaking her head. “Your sense of self preservation needs a little work. It wouldn’t do for you to chase after a potentially raging werewolf.” To her surprise, Imogen scoffed and shook her head no.
“Wasn’t anger you smelled like.” Imogen said quietly, the motion of her thumb not stopping. “An’ you looked more scared than anythin’.” Laudna sighed and glanced around the narrow alleyway she had wedged herself into.
“A cornered, frightened werewolf can be just as dangerous.” Laudna said and Imogen nodded. “I’m surprised the others let you follow me.” To her surprise, Imogen smiled a little, revealing the barest points of her fangs through the bars over her mouth and she shook her head.
“I’m real fast when I wanna be.” Imogen said and Laudna couldn’t have stopped the snort that escaped her if she tried. “FCG wanted to come out himself but… Again, if I’m oversteppin’ or misreadin’ please tell me but… I kinda think you like my company more.” Laudna blinked at her, heat rising to her cheeks as their nights of mutual silence in the kitchen rose in the back of her mind.
“I do.” Laudna said, her voice coming out an octave higher than it normally would. She cleared her throat then and sighed. “Fresh Cut Grass means well but he can be… A little pushy at times. I… Thank you.” She hesitated before she added, “It was rather like a PTSD episode. The packs… They make me uncomfortable but the feeling is mutual, I assure you.” Imogen nodded before glancing over at the mouth of the alley. Laudna looked over her head and sighed when she saw Ashton standing there.
“She’s fine,” Imogen called without looking over. “She just needed a minute. You can go away Ash.”
“Can’t.” Ashton said, shaking their head and Laudna heard their boots scuff on the cobbled ground. “You don’t have your tracker yet ‘Gen, one of us has to keep eyes on you while you’re out.” Imogen huffed again and Laudna couldn’t help the weak smile that spread across her face. Ashton’s boots crunched across the detritus in the alley as they walked closer, fixing Laudna with a look as they did. “You ok?” Laudna nodded a little, the little smile not fading from her face.
“I simply needed a moment.” Laudna said, aware as ever of the feeling of Imogen’s thumb brushing across her knuckles. It changed paths then, tracing along the scar that ran across the back of her hand and Laudna fought down the urge to shiver at the feeling. “I apologize if I’ve made a scene.” To her relief, Ashton waved her off with one hand as they dug a crumpled pack of cigarettes out of their pocket with the other.
“You’re fine dude.” Ashton said, digging their lighter out of their other pocket and opening the pack. “Hell, a few old the older werewolves started tittering when you left about why you haven’t just pasted those little fuckers yet. Aggressive attitude adjustments are pretty common amongst werewolves.” Laudna sighed and nodded when Ashton opened the pack and held it out to her. Pulling a cigarette fee, Laudna shook her head.
“I have little desire to be the one to make those attitude adjustments.” Laudna said, accepting the lighter a moment later and she paused to light her cigarette. “Involving myself in pack politics has never done me any good, Ashton. There will always be those ignorant children who wish to fight the bogeyman if only to bolster their own fragile egos and very few of the adults responsible for them will take kindly to me correcting them in the traditional fashion.”
“Bogeyman?” Imogen asked and Laudna glanced over at her. Before she could try and explain, Ashton snickered.
“Oh yeah, Laudna’s the big bad wolf.” Ashton said, a smile spreading across their scarred face and Laudna rolled her eyes as she took a drag. “The kinda story told to all the little pups to make them behave. It stupid, superstitious bullshit but it’s a thing.” There were more footsteps near the mouth of the alley now and Laudna glanced over to see a stream of people leaving the building. She turned to Imogen with an apologetic look.
“I’m sorry you missed the rest of the meeting due to me.” Laudna said but Imogen shook her head, tearing off the top of a pack of flavored cigars with her teeth.
“I’m not.” Imogen said, using her free hand to push one of the cigars up far enough to be caught by her teeth. It was then Laudna realized that she was still holding her hand. “The meetin’ was exactly what I thought it was gonna be an’ you needed help more than I needed to try an’ be social.” She hummed then when Ashton reached over, his zippo already lit and she leaned in to light her cigar before taking a drag. She tucked the pack of cigars back into her bag and removed the cigar from her mouth with her now free hand. Glancing over at Ashton, she asked, “Did I stay long enough for it to count?”
“Yep.” Ashton said, the word coming out with a puff of smoke as they flicked ash away. “The meetings last an hour but you can typically take off after forty five minutes and we got you signed in and everything when we got here.” Imogen nodded, taking a drag of her cigar and Laudna couldn’t help but wonder what flavor it was. She could smell something vaguely fruity mixed with the familiar burn of tobacco but she couldn’t place it. Feeling eyes on her, she glanced over to see Ashton looking pointedly at their still joined hands and shook her head no, hoping silently that they didn’t make a big deal about it. They met her eyes and Laudna bit back a sigh when she saw their smirk soften a little. “Anyway,” Ashton said, gesturing to the mouth of the alley. “You two ought to come with us over to Bennetts before you head home. S’long fuckin’ drive an’ you could both stand to eat more.”
“They got vampire snacks?” Imogen asked and Ashton nodded with a chuckle. “Or just more fancy flavored blood?”
“They’ve got some actual vampire safe snacks.” Ashton said, taking another drag of their cigarette before turning to the mouth of the alley. “And blood in glass bottles. I know how much you hate pouches.” Imogen smiled and nodded a little before a thought crossed her mind.
“Is this anythin’ like the QuickStop?” Imogen asked and Ashton nodded. “Do they got that weird coffee Fearne used to make?” Ashton blinked at her before they nodded.
“They got the Feywild blends, yeah.” Ashton said, flicking their finished cigarette away as the three of them started to walk. “They’ve got a lot of the same things that the QuickStop does but remember what you can and can’t eat. I don’t think Laudna wants you barfing in her truck.” Imogen made a face at them and Laudna couldn’t help but smile.
“I don’t plan on eatin’ anythin’ I ain’t supposed to have.” Imogen said, flicking ash away as they reached the mouth of the alley and she smiled when she saw Fearne and the others standing there. A thought crossed her mind then and she asked, “Can I even have coffee?”
“You should be able to.” Laudna said, getting the smaller woman’s attention. “I’ve known other vampires in the past that enjoyed it.” Imogen smiled up at her before shaking her head.
“I’ve never had it.” Imogen said and Laudna felt her eyebrows raise. Imogen eyed the look on her face and sighed. “Caffeine was a no-no for me before. I’ve never had coffee or energy drinks or anything like that.”
“Caffeine will still affect you as a vampire.” Fearne said, getting Imogen’s attention. “It’s one of the few stimulants that still will. It has something to do with how it affects the brain and your brain function hasn’t changed all that much since becoming a vampire.” Imogen stared at her for a moment before she huffed.
“So caffeine still has an effect but most drugs an’ stuff won’t unless it’s in real big quantities?” Imogen asked and she sighed when Fearne nodded. “That makes no sense.” Fearne shrugged as Orym snickered.
“Existence is weird.” Orym said and Imogen nodded, flicking away the finished remains of her cigar. “I for one am glad most mortal drugs won’t affect supernaturals. Can you imagine a cracked out harpy?” There were snickers around the group and Ashton shook their head.
“Imagining either a vampire or a werewolf on PCP is nightmare fuel.” Ashton said and Laudna couldn’t help but shake her head.
“There are things that mimic the effect of that one.” She said, not looking away when Imogen looked up at her. “For werewolves at least. I’ve seen them a time or two.”
“Really?” Imogen asked, the corners of her mouth turning down in a little frown. “That’s awful. Here I thought Fey blood was the worst thing to watch out for.” Laudna stared at her for a moment, one corner of her mouth tilting up a little and she nodded.
“Fey blood is the worst thing a vampire has to watch out for.” Laudna said softly. “ But aside from a slightly upset stomach, Moon Dust wouldn’t have any effect on you. Most intelligent were’s are taught what it looks like and how to avoid it but… there are addicts in every society.” Imogen nodded, a thoughtful look crossing her face but before she could say anything, Fearne clapped her hands.
“It’s getting late and I know you two are probably wanting to get home.” Fearne said. “Why don’t we caravan over to Bennetts and grab some snacks so you two can get going?” Laudna nodded, flicking away the burnt out remains of her own cigarette before gesturing to where her truck was parked. The parking lot was largely empty now though there were a handful of people still milling about and she smiled at the sight of Chetney’s UTV parked a few spaces down from hers. Turning, she saw the old wolf looking up at her and she sighed.
“Why did you tell me to be ready by five if the meeting wasn’t until ten?” Laudna asked and Chetney smiled up at her before turning to spit out a wad of tobacco.
“Was gonna have you run the fence line with me.” Chetney said, shrugging his shoulders when she frowned at him. “Two pairs of eyes are better than one an’ I figured you wouldn’t want any of your goats escapin’.” Laudna shot him an unimpressed look before gesturing to her outfit.
“This isn’t exactly what I would wear to check fences in Chetney.” Laudna said, brushing a small piece of lint off the fabric of her jeans. “And last I checked none of the goats are in danger of escape. Well, unless Carpaccio is planning something.” Next to her, Imogen snickered and Laudna glanced over at her.
“You’ve got a goat named Carpaccio?” Imogen asked and Laudna nodded, feeling heat rise to her cheeks. “That’s cute.”
“She’s also got a rooster named Pate and he’s a jackass.” Ashton said, grinning when Laudna looked over at them with narrowed eyes. “I’m not wrong. Damn thing chases me every time I come out there.”
“Pate is a gentleman.” Laudna said, trying and failing to keep her annoyed look when Imogen giggled next to her. “It’s not his fault he sees you for the uncouth person you are. Nor is it his fault that you chose to pester the hens. A good rooster defends his flock, regardless of the size of the threat.” Ashton rolled their eyes and waved her words away.
“It happened one time,” Ashton said and Imogen looked over at them. “And I wasn’t pestering the hens. I was trying to catch them for you.”
“Because you left the gate for the chicken run open.” Laudna said dryly, rolling her eyes when Ashton nodded. “Don’t we have things to be doing? How are we getting everyone over to Bennett’s?”
“Some of you can ride with me.” Chetney said, already walking towards the UTV. He glanced back at the group then, muttering numbers under his breath before shaking his head. “All of you that ain’t goin’ in the truck can ride with me.”
“Will the five of us fit Mr. Pock o’ Pea?” Fresh Cut Grass asked, their wheel making an audible sound against the cobbled lot as they went. Chetney looked over at him before nodding and turning to Laudna.
“You gonna be up in the morning? I could use a hand movin’ the sheep.” Laudna was nodding before the question was finished and Chetney smiled a little at her. “Don’t stay up too late then. I’m pretty sure Fangs over there still has a curfew.”
“Fangs?” Imogen asked, amusement creeping into her voice but Chetney ignored her as he walked towards the UTV.
“Ignore him,” Laudna said, getting Imogen’s attention. “Chetney can be a little… Rough around the edges at times but he’s mostly harmless. I’ve heard him give less… appealing nicknames in the past.” Imogen stared up at her for a moment, a little smile on her face and Laudna felt her face heat again. Gesturing to the truck she asked, “Shall we?” Imogen nodded before glancing down at their hands. She sighed a moment later and let Laudna’s hand go and while she would deny it if asked, she immediately missed the feel of the vampire’s smaller hand in hers.
They got into the truck a moment later, Laudna digging the keys out of her pocket as Imogen settled on the seat across from her. She couldn’t remember the last time another person had been in the truck with her, but even as the engine roared to life, she couldn’t help but breathe in the now familiar scent of the vampire though something in her mind begged her to ignore it. She rolled the window down, reaching for the crumpled pack of cigarettes that lay on the dash and swore under her breath when it was empty.
“I probably don’t smell too good, do I?” Imogen asked, getting Laudna’s attention. She glanced over, eying the apologetic look the vampire’s face and frowned. “Bein’ a vampire an’ all. I’ve ah, read that werewolves have sensitive noses an’ uh, sorry.”
“What?” Laudna asked and Imogen shook her head, the motion causing several curls to come loose from the tie that held them back. “No you don’t smell bad.” The truck was quiet for a moment as Chetney’s UTV roared to life and headlights shone across the parking lot, reminding Laudna to reach down and turn hers on. She focused on the task of getting out of the parking lot, following Chetney out into the wide street as they set off towards Bennetts. She heard Imogen shift next to her as they came to a stop at an intersection and sighed. “You… Your scent is a little distracting.” Laudna said, keeping her eyes on the road. “But… not in a bad way.”
“Oh.” Imogen said quietly, shifting again. “That’s ah, good to know.” Away from the insulating presence of their companions, there was an air of awkwardness rising between them now and Laudna wracked her brain to try and think of how to stop it.
“Thank you.” She blurted, feeling the vampire’s eyes on her now. “For ah, taking care of my dishes that um, first morning.” Imogen was quiet for a moment before Laudna heard her sigh.
“You don’t gotta thank me for that.” Imogen said softly. “You seemed like you were exhausted an’ Orym had mentioned how hard the full moons can be.” Laudna nodded as they rolled to a stop at another intersection but as a horse drawn carriage clattered across the road, she heard Imogen gasp. “Are those friesians?” Laudna glanced at the horses, taking in their long wavy manes and the feathery hair around their hooves and she nodded.
“They are.” Laudna said. “Pretty common carriage horses, you’ll see them all the time. Those should be wearing reflectors though if they’re going to be on the main streets at this hour. Having black horses out after dark with no reflectors is just begging for trouble.” She glanced over at Imogen then, watching the wide eyed look she was giving the horses and smiled. “I’m guessing you like horses?” Imogen blinked before looking over at her, a slightly embarrassed look crossing her face.
“I do.” Imogen said. “All kinds of’em really but… My momma had a friesian when I was a little kid. They’ve always reminded me of her.” Laudna felt her smile soften as a bell behind them told her the light had changed. As they started forward again, she hummed a little.
“I could introduce you.” Laudna said, earning her a curious look from Imogen. “I have a um, gelding that helps me with my chores at times. He’s a gentle soul and he’s been familiarized with vampire’s before so it should be no issue to introduce you.” Imogen stared at her for a moment before a wide smile spread across her face, just visible through the bars across her mouth.
“I’d love that.” Imogen said and Laudna nodded as the lights for Bennett’s came into view. It was a more modern building, something more akin to what she had seen the few times she had ventured into the mortal world and stuck out like a sore thumb against the more classic style buildings around it. As she followed Chetney into the lot, Laudna glanced over at Imogen and frowned at her leggings and tank top.
“You might consider changing clothes first,” Laudna said as they pulled into a parking spot. “It gets quite cool in the swamp at night and I wouldn’t want you getting cold.” To her surprise, Imogen snickered.
“I’m a vampire Laudna.” Imogen said as she put the truck in park. “I don’t get cold.” She hesitated a moment before adding, “Thanks for worryin’ though.” Laudna smiled at her but before she could reply, there was a knock on the passenger window and she saw the grinning face of Fearne standing there.
“You guys coming?” Fearne asked through the window and Imogen chuckled before nodding her head and reaching to undo her seatbelt. Laudna undid hers before pushing the driver's door open and getting out, watching as Fearne linked her arm with Imogen’s to lead the smaller woman towards the store, already chattering happily. To her surprise, Ashton walked over, hands tucked in their pockets and they flashed her a little smile.
“You should come out with us more.” Ashton said and Laudna scoffed as she started towards the store. “I mean it. You’re not bad company.”
“Thank you, I think.” Laudna said as they stepped into the store, ducking to the side to hold the door open for a tiefling with an armful of bags. “But I think this is out enough for me.” Ashton shrugged as they grabbed one of the little plastic baskets and followed along after her.
“You should come up to the house more.” Ashton said, grabbing things at random to toss into the basket. “Seriously, now that the shock’s worn off I’m pretty sure Imogen and Fearne are gonna start trying to have game nights again. Junk food and board games with people you’re already sort of used to, how bad could it be?” Laudna glanced over at them as they reached the hot beverage bar and she heard the sound of Imogen and Fearne laughing about something.
“Perhaps.” Laudna finally said, grabbing one of the large paper cups before turning to the dispensers. She hesitated for a moment before she asked, “What sort of games?”
“All kinds.” Ashton said, grabbing a cup for themself before walking down to the dispenser labeled ‘X-treme Caffeine’ and sitting their basket down. “Fearne finds the weirdest shit and Imogen’s super into the retro ones.” Ashton shot her a little smile as she started to fill her cup with one of the house blends. “If you wanted to try and impress the pretty vampire, kicking her ass at ‘Trivial Pursuit’ would do it.” Looking over at them sharply, Laudna ignored the heat rising to her cheeks and huffed.
“You’re outrageous.” Laudna muttered, fighting the urge to growl at them when Ashton simply flashed her a cheeky smile before taking a sip of their coffee. “I’m simply being friendly.”
“Uh huh.” Ashton said, their smile not fading as they stepped a little closer. “She was holding your hand Laudna. You don’t like people touching you unless it’s an emergency. Hell, you let her hold the scarred one.” The look on Ashton’s face softened a little and they gently nudged Laudna’s shoulder with theirs. “If you are interested, go for it. She could do worse than you.”
“She could also do better.” Laudna grumbled, dumping a healthy amount of powdered creamer into her coffee before grabbing one of the wooden stirrers and glancing over at Ashton. “Is this another attempt to befriend me?” Ashton snorted, putting their cup down to reach for one of the packaged energy shots and tearing it open to pour into their cup.
“We are friends.” Ashton said, reaching for another one. “Have been since you threw me the first time. You’re just really fucking stubborn but its ok, I like that about you.” Laudna stared at them for a moment before she sighed.
“There is no indication that Imogen even likes women.” Laudna muttered but Ashton cut her off with a chuckle.
“She’s a walking gay disaster.” Ashton said, the humor not fading from their voice. “Trust me, I’ve known Imogen for a long time. If she was still capable of it, she’d of looked like a fucking stoplight the entire time she was holding your hand.” They glanced over then, smiling at the sight of Fearne’s horns bobbing through the store and shook their head. “If it wasn’t a suckers bet, I’d put money on the fact that Fearne’s having this same conversation with Imogen right now.”
“Truly?” Laudna asked, looking up from her coffee finally and Ashton nodded as they reached for a lid. “Why are you suddenly invested in this? Honest answers please.” Ashton stared up at her for a moment, the fluorescent lights gleaming off the crystals that made up their hair and they sighed.
“You got dealt a shit hand.” Ashton said finally, shrugging one shoulder. “And so did Imogen. Different circumstances but still shitty all around. It’s not a crime to want my friends to be happy and honestly, you deserve it.” Laudna stared at them for a moment, something warm bubbling up in her chest at the casual way Ashton referred to her as their friend but before she could muster a reply, Ashton scoffed. “Enough of this mushy shit. Grab some snacks or something.” They grabbed their basket and walked off, leaving Laudna standing there with her coffee and confusion rising in her chest. Shaking her head, she put a lid on the coffee cup and wandered over to the cold cases, picking out a handful of things that should be easy enough to eat on the drive home.
As she made her way to the checkout counter, she spotted Imogen and Fearne coming towards her and smiled. Fearne grinned at her as she came nearer and Laudna felt her eyes narrow. “What are you plotting?” Laudna asked as the other two joined her in line.
“I’m not plotting anything.” Fearne said innocently, her look cracking into a smile when Laudna stared at her. “Well, nothing bad and nothing for you to worry about.” The line moved as Ashton and Chetney joined them.
“Where are the boys?” Imogen asked but Fearne shook her head no.
“Orym didn’t want any snacks and Dorian stayed in the car with him. Freshy didn’t want to go through the trouble of being lifted out again.” Fearne said and Imogen nodded. Fearne looked down at her with a smile before shaking her head. “We should have a movie night. Snacks and drinks and stuff, how does that sound?” Imogen blinked up at her before shrugging her shoulders.
“Sounds like it could be fun.” Imogen said, shying closer to Fearne as another customer shot her a look. “Jeez, s’almost like this thing on my face is screamin’ ‘look at the vampire’.” Fearne’s head turned at the same time as Laudna’s and the man backed up under the force of the looks they shot him.
“Ignore them.” Fearne said, wrapping her arm around Imogen’s shoulders. “You’re welcome here just like everyone else.” The line had moved again and Laudna turned to face the cashier, setting her coffee and snacks down in easy reach.
“May I also have a pack of Red Marks. Unfiltered please.” Laudna said, not flinching when the cashier looked up at her.
“Ident card please.” The cashier said, holding out one hand and Laudna sighed. Digging out her wallet, she pulled the little plastic card out of its holder and handed it over, waiting as the cashier read it over. A skeptical look crossed the cashier’s face and Laudna sighed.
“January first, nineteen sixty three.” Laudna said, pulling out her registration booklet next and opening it to show the cashier that the dates matched. “That isn’t fake, I assure you.” The cashier stared at her for a moment before she sighed and handed the plastic card back to her.
“Must be good genes.” The cashier said as Laudna tucked the little card back into her wallet before cramming the booklet back into her pocket. “We have a special going on the Red Marks, buy two and save three dollars.” Laudna nodded and waited as the cashier turned to fetch the cigarettes. Soon, the transaction was done and she stepped aside to make room for Imogen and Fearne. Imogen grumbled a little as Fearne insisted on paying for her snacks but soon she turned her attention to Laudna.
“Was that your birthday?” Imogen asked and Laudna nodded with a sigh, bracing herself for the questions she knew were coming. Instead, Imogen chuckled a little and shook her head. “Glad to know I’m not the only one with a weird birthday.”
“What do you mean?” Laudna asked, the plastic bag crinkling in her hand as she shifted. She saw the hint of the smile through the bars across Imogen’s mouth again and smiled back at her.
“I was supposed to be born on Halloween.” Imogen said and Laudna felt her eyebrows raise. “But labor took a little too long and I popped out just after midnight on the first of November. I was always told I was only three or four minutes off bein’ a spooky baby.”
“That’s never stopped her from celebrating on Halloween every year.” Fearne said, holding a bag out for Imogen to take as she joined them. She glanced between them before she smiled. “Do you two have any other plans for tonight?”
“I was going to introduce her to Escargot.” Laudna said and she fought the urge to look away when Fearne grinned at her. “I think they might get along.” Fearne nodded before she glanced down at Imogen.
“Text me when you get home so I don’t worry about you walking through the swamp alright?” Fearne asked and Imogen nodded.
“I’ll make sure she gets back to the house.” Laudna said, the words leaving her mouth before she could stop them and Fearne turned to her with a smile. The faun nodded, her smile not fading.
“I would appreciate that.” Fearne said and Laudna nodded. “Don’t stay out too late, sunrise is supposed to be at six thirty.” Imogen nodded as Ashton walked over to join them, a half eaten meat stick hanging out of their mouth.
“Have fun at the bar.” Imogen said, pulling the open pack of cigars out of her bag and turning towards the doors. Laudna nodded at their companions before following Imogen out. The doors to the truck opened as the rest of their group streamed out of the store, Ashton hopping into the very back seat with Fresh Cut Grass as Fearne climbed into the passenger seat. Laudna watched them for a moment before setting her bag down on the seat and pulling out one of the packs of cigarettes. Pulling the plastic off, she glanced over at Imogen with a smile.
“You’re welcome to smoke in the truck.” Laudna said, pushing her bag over and climbing in, setting her coffee into the cupholder as she went. “It has certainly had worse in it than smoke.” Imogen nodded and climbed in, cigars in hand. Once the doors were closed and the engine had been turned on, Laudna glanced over in time to see Imogen rubbing at the line where the bite guard rested against her cheeks. “You can take that off now.” Laudna said, getting the smaller woman’s attention. Imogen glanced over at her, her hand not leaving the molded leather even as her brows furrowed.
“You sure?” Imogen asked and Laudna nodded. “This is for your safety, you know.” Unable to help herself, Laudna chuckled as she reached over to press down on the lighter built into the ashtray.
“I doubt you could hurt me if you tried.” Laudna said, smiling a little as she waited for the lighter to pop out. “Besides, I’m certain I wouldn’t taste very good. I imagine it would be a bit like getting a mouthful of dirt.”
“You smell like you’d taste good.” Imogen blurted and Laudna felt her eyebrows raise as the vampire started to backpedal. “Oh my god, I’m so sorry! That was supposed to be an inside thought!” Unable to help herself, Laudna chuckled and shook her head as Imogen slouched down in the seat with a groan, her hands coming up to cover her face. “I’m not a creep, I promise.”
“I didn’t think you were.” Laudna said, tearing the paper off the top of the pack and ignoring the heat that rose to her cheeks. She tapped the bottom of the pack, gently coaxing the first of the cigarettes out before pulling it free the rest of the way. Curiosity rose in her and she asked, “What do I smell like to you then?” A low groan rose from Imogen then and Laudna smiled as she lit her cigarette.
“Rain.” Imogen mumbled through the gaps in her fingers. “Most of the time. Like… the air right before a rainstorm. Sometimes like uh, wet leaves but in a good way.” She sighed then and sat up, turning her head to look out of the window. “This is embarrassing.”
“Interesting.” Laudna said, her words coming out with a puff of smoke. “I’ve often been told I smell like death.” Imogen glanced over at her then and snorted.
“Whoever told you that needs their nose checked.” Imogen said and Laudna shook her head, biting down on her cigarette to put the truck in reverse. As they pulled out of the parking lot, Imogen sighed. “I’ve smelled death before Laudna an’ that ain’t what you smell like. Hell, feels like it’d be more fitting for vampires to smell like death.”
“You don’t.” Laudna said softly, keeping her eyes on the road when the vampire looked over at her. “You’ve smelled like sage and eucalyptus the times I’ve been around you with an undercurrent of blood. Right now you smell much the same only with the added layer of whatever kind of tobacco you’ve been smoking.”
“That’s uh, my body wash.” Imogen said and she sighed. “You sure you don’t mind me takin’ this muzzle off?” They rolled to a stop at an intersection and Laudna glanced over at her, the smile fading from her face slightly.
“I don’t mind at all.” Laudna said softly. “No one should be muzzled, ever.” Imogen stared at her for a moment before slowly reaching up and undoing the buckle that held the straps together, stretching her jaw once the bite guard came free. “You never have to wear that around me.” Laudna said, her voice coming out firmer than she intended it to. “Not unless you simply want to.” Imogen stared at her as they started moving forwards again and smiled a little.
“Not a fan?” Imogen asked, folding the straps of the bite guard and tucking it into her bag and Laudna shook her head no, taking a drag of her cigarette. “Honestly, between that, the registration an’ the tracker, I feel like they should just chip me an’ get it over with.”
“I understand the precautions on some level.” Laudna said as the road narrowed around them and other vehicles became fewer as town quickly faded in the rearview mirror. “It would be very difficult for anyone to accuse you of biting so long as you have that on. I just hate what it stands for.” Imogen stared at her for a moment, tracing the sharp line of her jaw with her eyes as the urge to reach out and brush back the hair that had fallen into Laudna’s eyes rose in her.
“Do they make’em for werewolves?” Imogen asked, wincing when she heard the steering wheel creak as Laudna’s hand tightened.
“They do.” Laudna said quietly. “Though I refuse to ever wear one again.” She sighed then and took another drag before flicking ash out of the window. A moment of silence passed before Laudna sighed out a cloud of smoke. “Could we perhaps change the topic? This has been a surprisingly pleasant evening all things considered and I would hate to ruin it with my melancholic recolations.” Imogen nodded as she shifted in her seat to tuck one leg under the other.
“What do you do for Morri?” Imogen asked, hoping that this was a safer topic. A moment passed before she saw one corner of Laudna’s mouth curl up.
“I look after some of her larger animals.” Laudna said, flicking on the blinker to merge onto a long stretch of dark highway that was hemmed in on both sides by tall, thick trees. “As you heard earlier I also occasionally assist Chetney with various tasks related to the overall business that Lady Morrigan runs. I also run deliveries for her, usually to the various vampire friendly bars in the surrounding towns.”
“Are your goats part of that?” Imogen asked and Laudna shook her head no. “Or are you just an enthusiast?”
“A bit.” Laudna said, reaching over to grind her cigarette out in the ashtray. “It’s part hobby, part attempt at self sufficiency. I dislike cows milk so I keep goats for milk. There is also the more commercial herd that are primarily used for eating that I oversee at times though they don’t like me quite as much as mine do. I keep chickens for eggs and meat on occasion though I don’t eat them often and I attempt to grow a variety of things. I’ve only really been successful with potatoes so far though.” Imogen nodded before she glanced out of the windshield, taking in the silhouettes of the trees as they were lit up by the headlights. As they moved, she could see the sharp glimmer of eyes in the trees and was suddenly thankful that they were in a vehicle.
“Does anythin’ ever mess with your animals?” Imogen asked, tearing her eyes away from the trees to look over at Laudna. “Like them big cat things?”
“They have in the past.” Laudna said easily. “Though they don’t normally come near my house unless they’re desperate. Most animals tend to react to me like they would a predator and typically avoid me unless they’ve been conditioned not to. I had to get my goats as infants just so they could be used to me and Escargot was also very young when I got him. He’s only been old enough to be ridden for a few years now but I’ve had him since he was a few days old. His mother was rather sickly during her pregnancy and she didn’t make it. To be fair, he almost didn’t either.” Imogen let out a low whistle and shook her head.
“Hand rearin’ a bottle baby takes a lot of work.” Imogen said and Laudna nodded. “I bet he’s super protective of you too.” Laudna chuckled and nodded again.
“He was a feisty little thing as a colt,” Laudna said, adjusting her grip on the wheel and relaxing a little. “It was a hard choice to have him gelded, he’s such a beautiful color that Morri had thought about using him as a stud but after getting kicked and bit one too many times, he was a bit too aggressive to leave intact so it had to be done. He can be very protective at times though, even if it is a bit misguided at times.”
“An’ he’s not scared of you?” Imogen asked and Laudna shook her head no. “You must have spent a lot of time getting him used to you.” Laudna hummed and nodded, suddenly feeling awkward about all that she had shared so far.
“Do you like animals?” Laudna asked, hoping that asking the vampire about herself wouldn’t be a bad choice. Imogen chuckled and nodded as she pulled the last cigar out of the pack and crumpled the foil up to shove it back into her bag.
“I like most of them.” Imogen said, rolling down her window before lighting the cigar. “I grew up on a farm so I was around a lot of’em. We mostly had horses, a couple of goats, chickens an’ ducks. I think we mighta had a couple of cows when I was real little but I don’t really remember. There were also the barn cats an’ the guardian dogs but I wasn’t really allowed to mess with them much ‘cause they had a job to do.”
“Would you ever want to have animals again?” Laudna asked and Imogen sighed. “Sorry if that’s too personal.”
“You’re fine.” Imogen said, taking a drag of her cigar. She was quiet for a moment before she shook her head and flicked ash out of the window. “I always planned on havin’ animals again when I retired. You know the whole deal, work for forty years an’ then go take over the family farm once my daddy got sick of it.” She chuckled then and Laudna frowned at how bitter it sounded. “That’s all gone out the window now. I’ll never be able to go back to that.” A moment passed, the silence of the cab only broken by the sound of the tires on the roughly paved road and the soft crackle of dried tobacco as Imogen took another drag and Laudna glanced over at her. Imogen was looking out the window now, the corners of her mouth turned down in the beginnings of a frown and Laudna turned her attention back to the road..
“You didn’t choose this, did you.” Laudna said softly, her words seeming to hang in the air between them for a moment before Imogen shook her head and murmured a quiet ‘no’. “I’m… I’m sorry.” Imogen blew out the lungful of smoke and slumped in the seat.
“You got no reason to be.” Imogen said, flicking ash out of the window. “S’bit of a touchy subject if I’m honest. I am… Was a nobody. A workaholic shut-in that never left her house. Hell, the night this happened… I hadn’t been outta my house in nearly three months an’ now… Now I can’t go back. Part of me just wants to accept that it happened an’ move on but…. A bigger part of me wants to know why. Of all people, why me?”
“Maybe your sire saw something special in you.” Laudna said but Imogen snorted.
“Yeah so fuckin’ special that he left me in an alley.” Imogen said, any cheer she might have had fading from her voice now. Laudna heard her sigh and fought the urge to look over at her. A moment passed before Imogen said, “Sorry, I don’t know why I’m tellin’ you all this. We barely know each other.”
“It’s alright.” Laudna said, slowing down now as they approached the first of several winding turns. “I’ve been told I’m a good listener and it might be… cathartic to tell someone you don’t know well.” She heard the fabric of the bench seat creak and quickly glanced over to find Imogen turned to face her now.
“You’re not secretly a therapist are you?” Imogen asked and Laudna couldn’t help the snort that escaped her as she shook her head no. “Then it ain’t your job to listen to my bullshit.” She sighed then and leaned her head back against the door frame. “I would like to have animals again one day. I just have no idea how to bottle raise something. I was always too… fragile to help much as a kid so my daddy never wasted the time to teach me much.”
“A shame.” Laudna said, swallowing against her suddenly dry mouth and reaching for her coffee. Taking a drink she said, “I could teach you, if you’d like. I’m due to get more goats in December if you’d still be interested and the stables have at least one orphaned or rejected foal every foaling season. It’s time consuming but it’s not terribly difficult.”
“They gotta be fed durin’ the day too.” Imogen said sadly. “An’ from what I’ve read about vampires, once I get outta the baby stage I won’t be wakin’ up in the middle of the day anymore. Thank you for the offer though.” Laudna nodded, taking another drink of her coffee before returning it to the cupholder. She guided the truck around the first bend, smiling a little when the headlights reflected off the shallow water that told her they were getting close to home. Imogen sat quietly for a little while, smoking her cigar as her attention was stolen by the slivers of scenery illuminated by the headlights.
They rode in silence for a while, Laudna lighting another cigarette once they were past the last of the turns and the road flowed slightly uphill. As they broke the line of trees, she heard Imogen gasp as rolling, starlit grassland opened up around them, running into the distance as far as they could see.
“Wow.” Imogen breathed and she looked over at Laudna. “Is this all Morri’s?”
“Most of it.” Laudna said before gesturing with her cigarette in Imogen’s direction. “The open space ends about three miles that way. It runs back into the forest though I don’t recommend ever going in there if you find yourself out that far. The rest of this region isn’t quite so friendly as Lady Morrigan’s domain.” Imogen stared at her for a moment before glancing around them again as they crested a small rise.
“Are we close to the manor?” Imogen asked and Laudna nodded, taking another drag of her cigarette. “Do you know which direction it’s in?”
“North of here.” Laudna said, flicking ash out of the window. “Almost due north from my house though telling distance or direction in the swamp around the manor can be difficult at times. Things in there like to move on occasion, including landmarks so should you choose to walk through the swamp, it is vitally important that you stay on the marked path’s.”
“The swamp moves?” Imogen asked and Laudna nodded again. “How in the world does that…” She sighed and shook her head. “It’s magic ain’t it.” Laudna chuckled before taking another drag.
“It’s magic.” Laudna said, shifting in her seat a little. “Most of the farms and pastures aren’t actually in the Feywild proper, I don’t think, but the manor itself is so going from one to the other by any means but portals can be a little disorienting at times. I’ve never been certain how meshing them together like they are was done but to be honest, I’ve never asked. Lady Morrigan might be willing to tell you though, if you wanted to know.” Imogen nodded, her attention once again stolen by the land around them and Laudna couldn’t help but smile.
As they came down another hill and dipped back into the thick trees, Imogen turned to her. “How long does it take to get from your house to the manor?”
“On a good day?” Laudna asked, reaching forward to drop her finished cigarette into the ashtray. “An hour or so, give or take a few minutes though it has been longer and shorter depending on how the swamp is feeling.” At Imogen’s curious look, Laudna smiled. “It gets a little mischievous at times and likes to try and keep people there. The only saving grace against that is that whatever forces inhabit the swamp can’t move the paths.” She slowed the truck again, apprehension rising in her when the reflectors that marked her long driveway came into view. She slowed down further to make the turn before shooting Imogen an apologetic smile. “Sorry if this is bumpy. It’s needed regravelling for a while now I just haven’t gotten around to it.”
“It’s fine.” Imogen said, one hand coming up to grab onto the handle above her head as they hit the first pothole. “Do you ever worry ‘bout it messin’ up the truck?”
“No.” Laudna said, putting both hands on the wheel now. “I’ve made sure over the years that the truck's suspension can handle it. Unfortunately most of the little farm roads out here are like this but every time we set aside time to try and correct the problem, something else comes up.” She sighed. “But such is life I suppose.” Water splashed as the truck rolled through a puddle and she heard Imogen sigh.
“Bet this is fun when it rains.” Imogen said and Laudna couldn’t help but nod. “I got a truck at home but I never got to drive it. Might have to fix that now that I can see.”
“Were you blind?” Laudna asked, glancing over in time to see Imogen shake her head no.
“It was close.” Imogen said, a little smile spreading across her face. “I could barely see without my glasses an’ had no night vision to speak of.” She sighed then and continued a little wistfully, “I suppose that’s one perk from this whole mess. At least I can see now.” Laudna hummed and nodded, not entirely sure what to say to that.
The driveway ended a few minutes later, the trees opening up once again to a wide, cleared area and as the truck came to a stop, Imogen could smell water somewhere close by. A flood light had popped on when they pulled up, outlining a covered front porch in front of a single story home and the shapes of several outbuildings in the distance. As they got out of the truck, Imogen looked over at the house, frowning a little when she noticed the lack of windows.
“Was that built for a vampire?” Imogen asked, gesturing to the house and Laudna shook her head no.
“Bright sunlight hurts my eyes.” Laudna said, one corner of her mouth tilting up at the curious look on Imogen’s face. “It’s not easy to tell in the low light but my pupils don’t dilate like they’re supposed to. It is fashioned a bit after some of the vampiric dwelling’s I’ve seen over the years but more out of necessity than stylistic choice.” Imogen nodded, glancing at the house again and Laudna saw her smile. “Come on,” Laudna said, gesturing for Imogen to follow her and smiling when the smaller woman looked over at her. “I did say I would introduce you.” Imogen nodded eagerly and hurried over to her.
The walk out to the small barn wasn’t a long one and Laudna opened the door slowly, turning on the dim light as she went. Making a mental note to straighten up the next chance she had and hoping that Imogen ignored the mess, she led her over to the only occupied stall. Clicking her tongue a few times, Laudna waited as a shuffling came from the stall. A moment later Escargot’s head poked over the stall door, his dark eyes glancing around before settling on Laudna. She reached out then, smiling when he lipped at her hand before she glanced at Imogen where she stood behind her.
“He’s perfectly friendly if you want to come closer.” Laudna said and Imogen nodded eagerly before stepping forward, one hand already coming up. Escargot turned his attention to her, puffing out a breath that Imogen giggled at.
“Hello to you too.” Imogen said, her smile spreading into a grin when the horse lipped at her hand. She glanced at Laudna then. “Do you got any treats? I feel like we should give him somethin’ for wakin’ him up.” Laudna chuckled and nodded, turning to walk over to the workbench that ran along the other wall. She came back a moment later with a carrot in hand and held it out for Imogen to take.
“Be careful feeding him,” Laudna said, watching as Imogen offered the carrot to her horse. “He’s a bit of a glutton at times.” Imogen nodded, her free hand coming up to stroke Escargot’s nose as she fed him the carrot.
“He’s so pretty.” Imogen said quietly, stroking her fingers against the horse’s face even as she looked over at Laudna. “You must take good care of him.” Laudna nodded, heat rising to her cheeks again.
“I do my best.” Laudna said, scuffing the toe of her shoe against the hay strewn ground. “I’ll be honest, most of what I know about horses was learned on the fly while taking care of him. Hands-on experience and reading a lot of books. It worked out though.” Imogen nodded as the last of the carrot disappeared and she pulled her hands away. Escargot leaned his head out, sniffing at her hair until Imogen stepped away with a laugh. Turning to Laudna, she grinned up at her.
“Do you ever take him out at night?” Imogen asked and Laudna nodded.
“I do at times, yes.” Laudna said, stepping forward to gently pet the horse’s cheek. “But he worked this morning so I plan on letting him rest.” She hesitated for a moment before she said, “If you wanted to ride him sometime, I wouldn’t mind.”
“Really?” Imogen asked, excitement creeping into her voice and Laudna nodded. “Are you sure? I know how special a horse that’s yours can be.”
“I’m sure.” Laudna said, patting Escargot on the nose one last time before pulling her hands away. “You’ve ridden horses before?” Imogen nodded again, her smile not fading. “Then you at least know what you’re doing. I might ask to be there the first time just in case he decides to be an ass but, he seems to like you so I doubt that’s going to happen.” She hesitated before she added, “I would introduce you to the goats but they don’t typically come out of their house until the sun comes up. Perhaps when the days get shorter, you can come and meet them.” Imogen nodded with a smile before glancing around the barn. A moment passed and Laudna watched Imogen worry her bottom lip with her teeth before the vampire took a breath.
“Laudna I…” Imogen started before she looked away. “Thank you for doin’ this. It really made the night a lot better. Hell, your company made the night better an’ I’ve enjoyed the times we’ve run into each other in the kitchen an’... Would you maybe… Wanna do that on purpose?”
“Run into each other?” Laudna asked, confusion welling up in her. To her surprise, Imogen chuckled a little and nodded.
“Maybe hang out sometime? On purpose?” Imogen asked, looking up at her and Laudna felt something flutter in her stomach at the hopeful look in the vampire's eyes. The silence lingered for a moment and Imogen continued, “I… It’s so hard for me to find people I can be quiet with an’ the other’s are great an’ they try but… I… It’s silly. I’m sor-,”
“I’d love to.” Laudna said, the words coming out in a rush as a smile spread across her face. “Let me give you my phone number and we can plan.” A wide smile spread across Imogen’s face and the smaller woman nodded.
“I’ve got it.” Imogen said, turning to dig her phone out of her bag. “Fearne put it in my phone when she got me the new one. I can text you so you can have mine.” She was already tapping at her screen before Laudna could answer and a moment later, she felt her phone vibrate in her pocket. As she dug it out, Laudna smiled at the text reading simply, ‘Hi its Imogen.’ before she caught sight of what time it was.
“It’s almost two.” Laudna said and Imogen frowned up at her. “We should start the walk to the manor.” Imogen looked like she wanted to argue for a moment before she nodded and together they left the barn.
As they crossed the clearing, Imogen’s eyes went wide when she saw a wooden footpath disappearing into the swamp, the location lit by a dimly glowing blue flame, held in an archaic style lantern. The swamp was loud as they stepped into it, the croaking of frogs and insects joined in a natural cacophony with the various night birds. The footpath was lit every few dozen yards by the glowing blue lanterns, casting the area around them into a dim illumination that seemed to somehow make the swamp feel larger.
“This is spooky.” Imogen said, glancing around as they stepped under the low hanging boughs of a tree draped with a long curtain of moss. “I kinda like it though.”
“I’m glad you do.” Laudna said, her shoes scuffing against the damp boards under them. “It’s loud tonight too, which is a good thing. It means none of the moorbounders are near.” Imogen looked up at her then, her eyes wide.
“What happens if they get close?” Imogen asked and Laudna shook her head.
“The two of us should be enough to dissuade them,” Laudna said, glancing around as they continued on. “We’re both predators in our own right so they should largely avoid us. If one does happen upon us though… Let me handle it.” Imogen nodded but didn’t answer as they kept walking. A moment later, Laudna felt fingers brush against hers. Neither of them spoke as they walked and soon, the glowing yellow lights that marked the back door of Ligament Manor came into view in the distance.
“Seems the swamp isn’t wanting to play tonight.” Imogen said and Laudna couldn’t help but snicker. “That definitely didn’t feel like it took an hour.” Chuckling, Laudna gestured to her bag.
“Check your phone.” Laudna said, smiling as Imogen dug her phone out and swore at the time.
“How?” Imogen asked, looking up at Laudna incredulously. “That felt like a fifteen minute walk, half an hour at best! How’s it been an hour already?”
“Magic swamp.” Laudna said, shrugging her shoulders. “Time get’s strange between the planes.” Imogen stared at her for a moment before she shook her head and crammed her phone back into her bag. They started walking again a moment later and had only made it a few dozen feet before Imogen shuddered and swore.
“What the fuck was that?” Imogen asked, looking around and Laudna watched her curiously. “Seriously, didn’t you feel that? It felt like ants crawlin’ on every inch of me.” Laudna shook her head but before she could answer, Morri’s voice called out of the gloom.
“Ah yes, the ward line. I should have known that you would be aware of it once you found it, sensitive as you are.” Imogen turned and started at the sight of Morri standing at the end of the path, a glowing yellow lantern in hand. The old woman eyed them for a moment before she asked, “Did you two have a pleasant outing?”
“Yes Lady Morrigan.” Laudna said, the hair on the back of her neck rising when the hag looked over at her. To her surprise, the slightly unsettling smile on Morri’s face softened as she stepped closer to them.
“I’ve given you leave to call me Nana like the rest do.” Morri said, stopping a dozen feet out from them. “Or simply Morri should you prefer. You are a member of my house Laudna, however fringe you might consider yourself. There is no need for us to stand on formality. Now,” She turned her luminous eyes to Imogen then and the smile faded slightly. “Cassian is here. There’s been a development in your case that you might like to know.” Imogen blinked at her before nodding quickly and turning to Laudna.
“I’ll text you?” Imogen asked and Laudna nodded.
“I look forward to it.” Laudna said honestly and Imogen smiled up at her. “Sleep well, whenever you get to it.”
“You too.” Imogen said, almost shyly before she turned to Morri. Laudna stood there and watched as the two of them disappeared into the gloom around the house, keeping her eyes on the bobbing yellow light until it vanished before she turned to start her walk home. As the distance stretched on before her, Laudna couldn’t help but smile. It really had been a good night, one of the best she had had in a long time.