In your arms again......(Kariss)

[imported_Ezra]

The gasses escaped the ports of the Empress Marva as it sat in it's berth in the hidden bay in his retreat on Calidor. The long trench coat flowed behind him as he walked up the wide spiral stairs to the main room above. It has been months since he had seen his lifemate, too long. It also had been almost a year since he stepped foot on the planet, much too long. He entered the huge chamber and placed his coat on the bartop. He inhaled the scent of the place, and smiled as it was as how he left it. He began slowly walking around the place, looking for her.

"Karisssssss........where are you beloved?"

The words were sent throught the mind, caressing her own as if it were a velvet glove. She would be almost through her cycle of carrying their offspring and he was dying inside to see for himself. Looking into every room for her, calling her name over and over till she answered.

[Kariss]

'Karisssssss........where are you beloved?'

Kariss smiled suddenly, putting the book down she was reading in the library. She closed her eyes and sought out her Beloved, wrapping him in waves of warmth and love. A protective hand went to her swollen belly, the twins she carried snuggled together inside of her.

As graceful a vampyre she was, it was still hard for her to move gracefully around with the twins. She smiled, moving slowly off the couch to stand, turning to greet Ezra as he made his way to her.

It has been too long since she last saw him. She knew she caused him great trouble sneaking into Shadowfaene to tell him the news of the twins, but she had to. It was something to be told in person, not some other way. She would not regret her decision. Never.

Walking to the door of the library, she leaned against it, her red lips parted in an anxious smile as she spotted Ezra walking into the next room. She padded barefoot after him, walking up behind him, knowing full well he knew she was behind him. She reached up, placing her hands softly over his eyes and whispered into his ear,

"Guess who?"

[imported_Ezra]

Slowly turning and gracing her with a beaming smile, Ezra wrapped his arms around her gently. And placed a kiss on her soft lips. They stayed in that kiss for a while before slowly breaking it. Brown eyes gazed into her own and a hand caressed her smooth and perfect cheek. To finally be in her arms again felt so frelling good. He had longed for her touch and now reveled in it.

"You are more beautiful than I remembered my love."

His words were soft, and smooth. He missed her terribly and it showed. He then placed his hand on her abdomen and smiled. Crouching down he placed his head against her and laughed, then placed a small kiss on her belly.

"How do they fare love? Nothing is wrong I gather."

[Kariss]

Kariss smiled as she bent to speak to the babies, laughing softly when they began to move around at the sound of their father's voice. She took Ezra's hands and placed them where the movement was strongest, watching as his eyes lit up.

"They have been quiet most of the day...until you showed up." She whispered. "They know you."

Esra stayed on his knees, placing his head against her and she ran her hands through his hair, enjoying this private moment as father and children bonded. A tear came to her eye and she quickly brushed it away.

"You have been missed, My Love." Kariss said in a choked whisper. "It has been so lonely here without you. Please tel me you are home for good?"

[imported_Ezra]

Ezra slowly averted his eyes to hers, she could tell he so desperately wanted to say yes. But knew he couldnt, not just yet. And it pained him as it always done when she asked, and she deserved to ask that every time. She deserved to have her lifemate alongside of her, but the fatyes kept them apart. Only allowing for the fleeting moments they shared together. But these fleeting moments were what kept him sane and going strong. It was times like these that gave him the strength to take on anything thrown at him.

"You know how much I want to say 'yes' Kariss. But it is not that time to say it. The fates have other things for me to do before I can spend eternity in your arms."

He stood up and embraced her.

"All I can tell you at this moment, is hopefully soon."

[Kariss]

Kariss stiffened in his arms, ignoring the sudden ache in her abdomen. She turned cold eyes upon Ezra and stared into his face.

"Did you not tell me on Shadowfaene that they could do without you? That you would be here for me if I needed you?" She whispered, her voice starting to raise as she went on. "I have needed you all this time, Ezra, yet you have been unable to come to me. Why is that?"

Kariss pulled out of his arms, shrugging off his touch as he tried to reach out to her. She shook her head as she ran a hand through her hair. She whirled around, her brown eyes now black and wide.

"We came to that agreement, Ezra." Kariss hissed. "I asked you to come back home with me and you said you would. That was six months ago! Now you come home to only tell me that it will be a short visit...that you cannot stay?! When do I get to have you with me? When do we get to be a family, Ezra?"

Tears were falling down her cheeks and she did not care. her heart was breaking that she had to spend countless nights alone without him next to her and even with the twins, it would not fill the void his absence left in her. She wrapped her arms around her chest and slowly turned back to look at Ezra with pain filled eyes.

"It isn't fair, My Love." She whispered. "It is not fair to either of us."

[imported_Ezra]

His expression was his signature "none". He stayed silent as she went on about what was said and what was decided on. He knew what transpired between them, he wasn't stupid. But she forgot what occured in her quest to tell him of their happy news. What he did for friend and family alike. It was time to remind her.

" You know full well who I am, and what kind of man I am. Duty and priorties are important, I have a duty to see through there as well as here. My priority is here with you.....right now. You are close to delivering and I intend to be here when it happens. As for when I am coming back to stay is hard to say.....Do you forget what you had pulled to get the news to me? Did you not feel what I went through?? I suffered for it and did it to save you, the children and a friend.....I would do that and more! I love you Kariss, ,with all my being. I would gladly sacrifice my life to keep you from harm. I go through alot there Kariss.....and I have my reasons for that too. But things need to be mended that was broken there. Once that happens, I will be able to leave and come to you and the children to be a lifemate as well as a father. Until then, I can only do my best."

Brown eyes looked down at the floor and he sighed heavily. He knew his promise, but he couldnt keep it and keep them safe at the same time. Looking back up to her he steppe closer and touched her face, caressing her cheek with his thumb.

"Please Kariss, trust me as you have always done......it is all I ask of you. Nothing more."

[Kariss]

"You know I trust you, Ez. But what is more important? Your family or them." Kariss answered, her voice dripping with acid as she spoke of Shadowfaene.

Kariss moved away from him again and walked to the bar to pour herself some water.

"I know what kind of man you are. When we came together, we only had a short time to be with one another and I blame them for that. They took you away from me...they keep taking you away from me. They treat you like a monster, Ezra. You of all people, the son of Count Fulkrehm should not be treated like that."

Kariss' hatred for Shadowfaene was now growing by leaps and bounds and she would like nothing more than to see it's demise. She could not even speak it's name. The only redeaming quality that place had was Daiquiri.

"I know what goes on there, Ezra." Kariss whispered. "I know you do not feel me in your mind at times, but I am there. I see what happens and do not think for a moment that I have not been tempted to go back down there and bring that place down because they treat you the way you do."

Kariss sighed and walked back to Ezra, placing a hand on his cheek.

"You know how I feel about this. I am done arguing over and over, trying to get you to see what is more important." Kariss searched his eyes, then placed a soft kiss on his lips. "I am glad to see you, but I do need to lay down. The twins take alot out of me."

Kariss placed another kiss on his lips and then turned to walk to their chamber to lay down for awhile. Tears fell silently down her cheeks as she curled up on the bed, tucking a hand under her head as she layed on her side, a protective hand wrapped around the twins.

[imported_Ezra]

Silence was what answered or replied. As she disappeared into the main chambers, he didn't follow or pursue anything. When the door closed behind her, he turned on his heels and left the ruins he used to hide himself. Leaving his coat behind, he walked along the path which took him to the shoreline of the lake that was next to Tranquil. The lights of the sleepy village were all out as the people, his bunch of mortals, slumbered. He walked along the lakeshore tilll he reached the old rock cropping he always sat at. Taking a seat on the top rock, he leaned back to watch the twin moons race for the horizon.

The wind played gently with his hair that hung unruly and unkept as he always wore it. His longsleeved black satin shirt partly open from the neck to midchest, fluttered and brushed his neck. He closed his eyes and pushed back the frustration that seemed to always be a step behind him. Lately it seemed he had been locked away from everything he loved, even now ....here.....he felt the same. Staring at the horizon, he knew she was right. He wondered about it all, why he even allowed himself to go through what he endures everyday back at the fortress. He was the son of a council member, he was a pureblood....yet he was treated like an animal, a pet, sometimes as the lowest form to exist. Eyes that were once full of life and the joy at living it were now filled with sadness and the solitude he's had for all the time away. He sat up and rubbed his face with both hands. Tired, he hadnt been sleeping much at the fortress and now it seemed in his present state, it caught up to him.

Sighing once more, he stood up and made his way back to the main room to sip some bloodwine and possibly sleep, Maybe once he'd gotten some rest he'd feel better.

[Kariss]

Her heart ached as she felt Ezra's emotions. He was torn, she knew that. She reached out to him, calling him to her, enveloping him with waves of love.

'Please come to me, My Love.' She whispered lightly in his mind. 'We need each other ... I need you. I am deeply sorry for being so harsh. You know me, I speak my mind, whether it be good or bad.'

Kariss let a soft smile play on her lips as she leaned back on the bed, thinking of the twins and when they would make their arrival. Ezra's father was due to make an appearance soon for their birth and then take her back to Khar Sian for their childhood and protection. She was looking forward to it. She had missed Redeemer and the other brooding members of the Bloodpack. As much as she loved her home, she missed being with other vampyres, she craved their company.

[imported_Ezra]

'Please come to me, My Love.' She whispered lightly in his mind. 'We need each other ... I need you. I am deeply sorry for being so harsh. You know me, I speak my mind, whether it be good or bad.'

Head in hand, he was sitting on the couch facing the black glass window which allowed them to view the sun without being harmed by its deadly ultraviolet rays. Glass of bloodwine in his other hand, he sipped the sweet drink and hadn't answered her. He closed his eyes and exhaled deeply, he was beyond tired, fatigued was more like it. He slowl;y stood and made his way to their sleeping chambers. Walking in, not saying a word, he placed the gobblet down on a small table and slid in next to her. Resting his head on her shoulder, he placed a hand on her belly to feel the children move. A smile broke through the grim look he wore, and he looked up at Kariss.

"I'm sorry love, I know I am not myself, but it will be alright......you'll see."

[Kariss]

Kariss leaned into Ezra, a soft smile on her lips. She brought a hand up to run her fingers through his hair and then kissed him tenderly.

"Sleep my love. I know you are exhausted. Things will be different when we wake." She whispered next to his lips. She curled her arms around him, snuggling close. "I love you, Ezra Darkmere."

Kariss closed her eyes, letting the blackness of sleep take over her, her arms holding Ezra tight.

[imported_Ezra]

Brown eyes slowly opened and his vision focused. How long was he sleeping? He rubbed his hand over his face and tried to get the cobwebs out of his head. Kariss had gotten up before him, and was somewhere about the keep. He stretched and sat up, his unruly hair sticking up all over the place. He moved to lean back against the headboard of the huge bed and folded his hands behind his head.

"Now that was well needed."

He spoke to the silence of the room.

[Kariss]

She knew immediately when Ezra was awake and she smiled, touching his mind. Her whole body screamed to be near him and she listened. Kariss grabbed a goblet of blood wine for him and went as fast as she could down the stairs to their chamber.

The sight that greeted her made her breath catch in her throat. Her Ezra, sitting up in bed looking rumpled. She could not help the smile that played on her lips. She walked to the side of the bed, setting the goblet down next to him on the nightstand.

"You're awake." Kariss said softly, sitting on the bed next to him, but turned to face him, placing a hand on the other side of his lap so that she could lean over him. She brought her other hand up to slowly caress his chest and then moved it higher to stroke his neck, her finger tips touching her favorite place on the side.

Kariss' eyelids lowered a fraction and her lips parted, her fangs aching to sink into his skin. She let the tip of her tongue flick tip of one fang as she looked at Ezra, daring him to stop her. She knew he would not. She leaned closer to him, her lips just a breath away from his skin and she inhaled deeply, his scent wrapping around her and she sighed, placing a kiss on his skin before suddenly sinking her teeth into him.

She felt Ezra's body stiffen under her and she moaned, his coppery blood filling her mouth. Her senses reeling from the pleasure of it all. Ezra's arms tightened around her, clutching her to him as she fed.

'It has been to long, My Love.' She murmured into his mind.

[imported_Ezra]

Reveling in the feel of the bloodletting, his arms wrapped around her firmly yet gently, eyes slightly rolled back and the lids fluttered. His own fangs appeared as he chuckled. She was right on one thing, it had been too long for them both. His eyes snapped open and he smiled as he thought he heard the voices of children in his head.....their laughter. No, it couldn't be, could it?

' Did you hear them?'

He sent back to her as the small voices quieted down.

[Kariss]

Kariss did not want this to stop, but she pulled back, high on the effect he always gave her during that. Her lips were stained with his blood and she licked the tiny pin pricks closed and then moved to kiss him hotly. Her arms came up to wrap around his neck as her body pressed into his. She ended the kiss, licking his bottom lip with the tip of her tongue.

"I hear them all the time, My Love." Kariss smiled tenderly. "I even know what sex they are going to be."

That admission had Ezra's eyebrows lifting and she laughed when she felt him poking around in her mind trying to find the information.

"You will have to wait!" Kariss grinned, pulling away from him as she began to feel uncomfortable. A sudden pain wracked her abdomen and her eyes grew wide. Another pain hit her and she cried out, reaching for Ezra. A sudden wetness between her legs confirmed what she was thinking and she looked at Ezra.

"If your father wants to be in on this, you had better get him here. I do not think the twins are waiting anymore." Kariss laughed. "The twins have deemed now to be the time to be born since their father is here."

[Count Fulkrehm]

A cloaked figure made its way up the ascending stairway from the hidden ships bay. A few others were with him. One he knew who would not fare so well, and his heart went out to him. But he was family, and he deserved to be included. The procession made their way down the main hall to the doorway of the bed chambers. And descended the steps to where the two parents to be sat.

"You wont have to wait much longer Kariss. I do apologize, we've had some delay. But the family is here."

[Vampyre Dante]

Dante stood back behind the other's, his heart still aching from the death of his son, Ice. To be asked to be here with Fulkrehm and his family to witness the grandchildren being born, it was hard. He was honored that his dear friend wanted him there, to share in it, but Fulkrehm knew what he was asking of Dante.

He ran his hands through his long hair and took a deep breath. He remained in the shadows, not wanting to be known just yet, but he could feel Kariss' curiousity at the group and found her singling him out. His eyes connected with her's and he about fell to pieces when he felt her sorrow for him and Redeemer. Dante had loved that turned one the moment he saw her squaring off against Fulkrehm and knew they would be friends. She and Ezra made the perfect match, much like Ice and Redeemer.

Dante turned his pain filled eyes away from Kariss' and leaned his head against the cool wall. The thought of knowing he would never be in Fulkrehm's place right now filled him with such sadness he could not stand it. His lifemate, Myriad, insisted on staying back on Khar Sian, not wanting to be a part of this. She was fragile enough as it is, all of her children dead through the years. To witness this would be her undoing. Dante loved his lifemate, but things had changed between them. They started changing when their daughters were slaughtered many years ago. Ice had been the last straw. Myriad grew agitated and hateful and Dante knew she was ready to leave, to start a new life somewhere else...without him.

Letting out a sigh, he steeled his emotions, locking them behind a tight wall in his mind for now, wanting to truly enjoy Fulkrehm's happiness for his family. He looked back at Kariss and smiled softly at her, bowing his head in respect.

[imported_Ezra]

"Father......It's good to see you."

"Indeed."

Ezra slightly bristled from the reply that his father gave him. It would take a little more time for them to get onto common ground to be civil with one another. He smiled at his sister and mother and also to his old teacher Dante.

"Im glad you all came, she is ready I believe."

Izabell took his hand and led him out the room as Danae shooed the other two men out just leaving her and her son's lifemate there.

"Hello Kariss, come, lets prepare you fo rtheir arrival.....then we will let the others back in."

[Kariss]

Kariss watched with sad eyes as Dante was escorted out of the room with the other men. Her heart went out to him so much. She turned her eyes to Izabel and her mother and softly smiled at them as another contraction hit her. She let out a deep breath, mentally reaching for Ezra's support while he was with his father and Dante.

The rules for childbirth were for the mother-to-be to be completed naked, but Kariss balked at that, wanting at least one of Ezra's shirts on for modesty. She was an openly sexual being, no doubt about that, but she did not want the other two males in the same room while she was butt naked giving birth. Izabel and her mother laughed heartily at that, totally understanding.

Kariss let out a blood curdling scream as the pain wracked her body. She reached out for Izabel's hand, clutching it. Danae wiped her forehead with a cool cloth and murmured,

"Shhh....the baby will be out soon enough, my dear."

Kariss turned to look at her and laughed softly between contractions.

"Danae, Ezra must not have told you. I'm carrying twins!"

[imported_Ezra]

Ignoring his father and old mentor. Ezra went for the door, his place was with Kariss no matter how the council, his father, or anyone for that matter viewed it. He belonged at her side through this, not his sister or mother.

"Ezra you cannot do this!!"

"Your father is right, ,this is not simply done."

The door opened and Kariss heard her lifemate clearly as he spoke with a commanding tone.

"The both of you forget where you are! This is NOT Khar Sian...it is MY home....Kariss's home....I belong at her side! And no one is going to stop me!"

He entered the room and Izabell smiled and shook her head. his mother regarded him with an arched eyebrow.

"I suppose we have no choice in this matter do we Ezra? Fine....I wont argue, it would do no good either way."

Ezra bristled at his mothers banter and Kariss laughed. He moved to her side and took her hand. A beaming smile was given to her as he caressed her forehead.

"I will be right here.....where I should be."

[Rage]

*oopsies*

[Kariss]

Kariss turned to look at Ezra, laughing softly as he barged his way back into the room. She reached out for him, wanting him there at her side through this. He was their father, he deserved to witness their births.

Another contraction ripped through her and she tossed her head back in pain, her back arching up off the bed. Her hand squeezed Ezra's tightly as she took some calming breaths.

"Boy, they never tell you the pain is like this!" Kariss joked between breaths. Her eyes went wide and she looked over to Danae. "It's time!"

Danae rushed to check her and she looked up with a smile.

"Yes, it most certainly is time."

Kariss turned to look at Ezra, mixed emotions of love, joy and fright making their way through her eyes. He reached for her then, helping her to sit up as she began to push with Danae's instructions.

[imported_Ezra]

Sitting next to her on the bed, his arms holding her, Ezra smoothed her hair as she began to follow his mother's instructions to push. He was watching with excitement and fear all at the same time. His mother was waiting at the other end of the bed for the babies to arrive and Izabell was moving around quickly getting cloths, water, and other things his mother needed to help his beloved Kariss.

"You're doing wonderfully my love....Soon this will be over and we will be more happy than we could ever imagine."

He smiled at her as she continued to bring forth into the world, their children.

[Kariss]

"...we will be more happy than we could ever imagine."

Kariss turned to look at Ezra then, a changed look from happiness to sadness came over her face for just a moment as she said,

"You know the only way we will ever be happy the way you speak of, Ezra."

Danae stopped her constant instructions to look at them both, her eyebrow raised in question for a brief moment before going back to urging Kariss on.

Kariss bared down, letting out a scream as she felt a burning sensation erupt through out her entire body as she pushed one more time. A big relief swept through her and she collapsed on the bed, holding Ezra's hands in her's. She blinked the sweat out of her eyes and moved back up into a sitting position to find Danae and Izabell huddled over a swaddled bundle in Danae's arms.

A sudden wail happened and Kariss cried out in happiness as Danae came over to her side, resting the crying baby into her arms. Holding the red faced infant in her arms, she turned tear filled eyes to Ezra, smiling loving at him. Danae walked over to the other side of the bed and placed her hands on her son's shoulders.

'Welcome your son into the world, My Children." Danae whispered.

Kariss looked up at her with awe and then felt another contraction rip through her. Danae quickly took the child from her arms and gave him to Izabell as she went back to work, helping Kariss through the last twin. Within a matter of moments, Kariss and Ezra were both holding a child in their arms. Kariss holding the little boy she had always wanted and Ezra holding his darling daughter.

[imported_Ezra]

Ezra sat with the tiny bundled up life in his arms. He was silent as a tomb as he stared with a grin. She had quieted down and was making cute little murmuring noises. His mother watched him as she held Izabell who was wearing a beaming smile as she watched the new parents hold thier children.

"What are you to name them?"

Danae asked them.

" Alexi.....she will be called Alexi."

He chuckled as the little baby smiled at the sound of her name.

"And what of our son Kariss? Have you chosen a name yet?"

[Kariss]

Kariss looked at Ezra, then at their daughter whispering her name in approval with a smile. She looked at their son, all bundled up with his eyes open looking straight at her. She brought a hand up to trace his eyebrows lovingly and then placed a soft kiss on his tiny forehead.

"Draven. His name will be Draven Darkmere." She said softly, looking to Ezra. "What do you think, My Love?"

She reached out with hand to cup Ezra's cheek while Danae went back to cleaning her up and making her presentable for the two Elders waiting anxiously out in the hall.

[Vampyre Dante]

Standing against the stair wall, Dante leaned his head back, closing his eyes as he thought of his son and the children he and Redeemer should have had. The grandchildren he would not be playing with. A great sadness over took him and he wrapped his arms around himself and looked towards Fulkrehm.

"You are very blessed, my friend." Dante whispered painfully. At that moment, the two of them heard the wails of a newborn and the Count's face lit up. Dante offered him a smile and then a look of shock a few minutes later as a second one was heard wailing away.

With the Count's own look of shock registering, Dante actually smiled a true smile for once and cracked,

"Bet you didn't see twins coming, huh?"

[Count Fulkrehm]

His eyes wide at the second sound, he shook his head slowly.

"No my friend, I had not.....the sneaky little bobbin hid from me! I only detected the male."

He laughed.

"I fear this little wiley girl will be exactly like her father....*sigh* that is all I need."

[imported_Ezra]

Ezra walked out with his daughter in his arms, he walked to the two elders and while they peeked over his shoulders, he moved the blanket aside to reveal a little angel's face.

"I want you to meet....Alexi Darkmere."

[Vampyre Dante]

Dante looked down upon the angelic face of Alexi Darkmere and a soft smile played on his lips. He reached up with a finger and stroked her small cheek, smiling further as she opened her eyes and yawned.

"She's beautiful, Ezra." Dante said in a hushed voice, patting his friend's son on the shoulder. "May I go see Kariss?"

[imported_Ezra]

"Yes, by all means....go right in."

He watched his old mentor walk in and laughed when his father stood there with his arms open to take his grand daughter.

" Alright father....go to grandpa Alexi."

[Vampyre Dante]

Dante slowly walked into the chamber, his eyes going to Danae and Izabell as they stood around Kariss cooing and awing over the newborn she held.

He cleared his throat and the two women smiled at him and backed away, excusing themselves to go to Ezra while giving Kariss and Dante some privacy. He looked back to see the four adults peering in and laughed softly to himself as he walked to Kariss' side.

"Congratulations, Kariss." Dante smiled, leaning down to kiss her cheek softly.

He looked at the tiny bundle in her arms and his smiled widened. The little boy was going to have the Darkmere hair, but he definately had his mother's pouty mouth.

[Kariss]

Kariss smiled lovingly up at Dante as he kissed her cheek. She patted the bed next to her, inviting him to sit down. As he did so, she sat up straighter and placed Draven into his arms. He turned a startled look in her direction and then was drawn into looking at her son as Draven stared up at him.

Kariss looked at the door way to see the Darkmere's looking on anxiously as she motioned for them to come in. She reached out for Ezra, clasping his hand as he reached her. With her other hand, she placed it softly on Dante's arm.

"Dante," Kariss spoke softly. "With Ezra's permission, I would like to honor Ice's memory in some way."

Dante raised an eyebrow at her in expectation and Kariss laughed softly.

"Dante, say hello to Draven Icilian Darkmere."

Kariss watched the shock register on Dante's face and when he opened his mouth to speak, Kariss raised her hand.

"I did some homework and found out Ice's birth name. I hope you do not mind." Kariss smiled, then looked up at Ezra, raising his hand to her lips and placed a soft kiss on his palm. "You do not mind, My Love?"

[imported_Ezra]

Smiling at her, he shook his head to emphasize the answer.

"No my love, of course I don't...He will have a strong name, one he can be proud of."

His comlink beeped and he smiled, Just in time He thought as he knew who had opened the hanger doors.

"Kariss, I have a surprise for you....someone is here and I will show them in."

He walked out to the ships bay. Down the large spiral steps to the hanger bay he went. A ship sat in the last port and gasses hissed as it was being shut down. He waited for the ramp to open to greet the "guest".

[Daiquiri Van-Derveld]

Keeping a sharp look out on all sides, Daiq manuevered the Days carefully through the opened doors of Ezra's hidden landing bay, then gently nudged the ship forward to an open slip.

Striding down the now open ramp, she looks around then snaps her gaze upward as the overhead bay doors slide smoothly closed, blocking out all daylight.

As her eyes grow accustomed to the inner lighting of the docking bay, a familiar figure comes in to view, walking purposefully towards her.

A big grin creases her face as she walks forward to greet him in a big hug....and finds herself lifted off her feet, wrapped tightly in the vampires arms.

It had been months since the two had seen one another, from the time of her banning from ShadowFaene property and she held him now at arms length, looking him over with a critical eye.

There was a touch of hardness around his dark eyes that hadnt been there before but it wasnt surprising...Hera had been rough on him that night and Daiquiri had no idea what had transpired after she left the premises.

The Sith herself was still recovering from her bout with the strange virus that had infected her, curtesy of the man calling himself 'Vega Van-Derveld', and from her encounter with the Sith witch, Sorsha. Daiq was thinner and like her vampire counterpart, wore a new air of toughness.

But this wasnt a day for remembrance...it was one of celebration. Kariss had given birth to their children and breaking the silence, Ezra had contacted her, asking her to come and share his joy. Daiquiri didnt hesitate.

"Ezra! Its good to see you again!"

[imported_Ezra]

He hugged her as tight as he dared, he had missed her around the fortress since she was one of a couple of the crew who had made a freindship with him and kept him company during times he needed someone to talk to. The night she was 'expelled' from the fortress was the night Kariss had come to tell him of her pregnancy, and Daiquiri had helped smuggle her in. He was indebted to her for that sacrifice she made.....like he sacrificed part of himself when he suffered for all of them. But she was here now and that pleased him, it also pleased him to know she came to participate in their celebration of his children.

" As it is for me as well."

He too looked her over as she appeared different than last he remembered.

"I see circumstances have took its toll on us, didn't it Daiq? "

He smiled and looked around his hanger as his hands rested on his hips.

"So, what do you think of my little hideaway?"

[Daiquiri Van-Derveld]

"I think its nice."

That was an understatement. As clean as a whistle and sharp as a pin...Daiquiri couldnt see anything that looked out of place. And those overhead doors! Well, Ez was right uptown!

"Youre going to get so fancy that you wont want to come back to 'Faene......not that Im back, yet."

With an upturned grin, she linked an arm through his.

"So, tell me all about these babies."

It was a good thing that she was in a listening mood because Ezra immediately launched into every detail of the new arrivals.

[imported_Ezra]

They walked together slowly ascending the great spiraling steps that went along the wall.

"If you think my ships bay is fancy, wait till you see the interior of my home." he laughed as she held his arm. "Ohhh they are beautiful Daiq...my daughter, is so alert....Im told she is exactly like me, and that it spells trouble....and my son has this .....look of intelligence that my father mentioned he would teach him sith sorcery."

He looked at her and was beaming with pride as he described the new Darkmeres. He then caught himself and chuckled.

"Forgive me, Im too giddy right now to be well, a regal host."

That was when he opened the red oak door and they stepped into the huge gathering chamber. A bar stood to the left of them, a sitting area was directly before them and all decked in a gothic theme. He pointed at a black rectangle as they walked past.

"That I had installed so Kariss could watch the sun rise without being harmed. Scientists use it to view eclipses. I for one, have gotten to view the sunrise and it is a beautiful sight."

Walking to the rear of the chambers to the open hallway he leaned closer to her.

" I have missed you at the fortress....Remkah is far too busy nowadays to sit and chat.....I dont have anyone else to talk to."

[Daiquiri Van-Derveld]

"Ive missed you as well."

The truth was, she missed everyone and the mention of Remkah's name only made it worse but like she had done for some time, she bore it and smiled.

"Your home is very nice, Ezra, very nice."

Personally, she wouldnt have trusted anything to keep the sunlight out except strong shutters and blinds but as Daiq mused, the vampires were a crafty lot and sure to find ways around their problems.

"Does Kariss know Im coming? Id hate to be a burden if shes not up to having company."

[imported_Ezra]

He looked at her with a bit of worry.

"Actually no, I wanted to surprise her."

He walked on knowing full well Kariss could get upset at this surprise for her. Oh well, it wouldnt be the first time Ezra had screwed up something. Seems lately he's been doing just that.

" Well, one things Im thankful for if she does get upset......at least I wont get force lightning."

[Daiquiri Van-Derveld]

It was a bad joke.....baaaad joke....and Daiquiri laughed anyway because in its own twisted way, it was funny.

The blonde Sith shook her head at him and grinned.

"If she gets mad, I'll call in the favor she owes me, then she'll have to be nice about it."

Daiq wasnt worried about Ezra's mate being unhappy with her presence. She and Kariss had always gotten along and there was no reason for that not to continue.

[Dante Imoralia]

Dante held little Draven in his arms, unbelievingly the generosity Kariss had just bestowed upon him. He blinked back tears of happiness as he leaned over and placed a soft kiss on Kariss' cheek.

"Thank you, Kariss." He whispered. "You do not know how much this means to me."

She had smiled a bright smile at him as he got up and walked around the room with Draven still in his arms. He could not take his eyes off the infant. So much already like his mother. The Darkmere clan were in for trouble with this little one. Dante smiled, knowing already Draven would not listen to anyone but his mother. So much like a blonde vampyre he knew growing up.

Dante looked up to see the other's in the room watching him quietly and he smiled at them, walking back to Kariss' side to place Draven carefully in her arms.

[imported_Ezra]

Ezra laughed as Daiquiri made her own pun on the possible situation. He knew Kariss was always partial to Daiq than Hera, and they had spent time on the Sanguine. It also helped that Daiq helped her get to him to tell him the news.

"Im sure she will be glad to see you, At least I hope she is."

They approached the room and he took a deep breath. This was gonna be interesting to say the least.

[Kariss]

Kariss knew Daiq was there, Ezra could not hide that from her. She did like Daiq, there was no question there, but she did not like someone not of the vampyre realm in her chambers. Kariss was feeling as if her space was being invaded and that was one feeling she detested. Her eyes turned black and narrowed at the door as it began to open and suddenly it slammed shut in Ezra's face.

Kariss' eyes widened in shock and the other's looked at each other around the room and finally she looked down at Draven in her arms, who was looking up at her with eyes that were well soaking everything in. Her feelings, her thoughts. Kariss' eyebrow rose as she suddenly began to laugh, kissing her son on the forehead lovingly. Draven was protecting his mother, even only being a few hours old.

"You are your mother's son, aren't you?" She chuckled softly. "I see you have a strong hold on your father's Sith side."

'I know of your surprise, Ezra but I do not want Daiq in our chambers. Please take her back upstairs. She sent to him. 'And that was your son protecting me by slamming the door in your face. It seems he is attuned to how I feel and reacts to it.'

[imported_Ezra]

At first he was surprised as well as angered at the rudeness of it all. Then when Kariss had sent to him what had happened, he immediately began laughing. Looking at Daiquiri he gestured back up the the main chambers.

"Come, we will wait for them up there. Seems my son wants alone time with his mother. We will grant him that, and as I get you a refreshment, I will introduce you to my daughter."

As Ezra lead her back to the main room with the bar setup, where he poured her a drink.

"Make yourself at home Daiq, While I get my little girl."

[Daiquiri Van-Derveld]

The door in front of them slammed shut with such force that a few loose strands of hair at her temples blew back onto her shoulders. Without comment, she arched a brow at Ezra who looked as surprised as she was, then began laughing.

Daiquiri didnt ask what was going and instead followed his lead once more to a room they had just come from. Gratefully she accepted the drink and nodded as Ez went off to bring on his babies in for her to see.

[imported_Ezra]

Ezra returned with a bundle in his arms, He walked over to Daiq with a beaming smile. Coming up next to her, he held the bundle out to Daiquiri and when she held the little one, Ezra pulled the wrap to reveal the baby's face.

"Daiquiri, I want you to meet my daughter, Alexi."

As the introduction was made, the newborn smiled. Ezra laughed at that and patted Daiq on her shoulder.

"Look at that, she likes you."

[Daiquiri Van-Derveld]

Carefully, she accepted the precious bundle and smiled down when two dark eyes blinked up at her.

"Alexi? I like that name."

Daiquiri had an affinity with and for children of all ages and immediately sat about whispering nonsense to the little one in her arms. Smiling, Daiq looked up at Ez.

"Shes a sweetie, Ezra. Congratulations."

[imported_Ezra]

Ezra smiled and nodded. He was elated that he could share this with someone from the Fortress. He grinned as he watched his daughter smile at the sound and antics of Daiquiri.

"Alexi was my grandmother's favorite name, she wanted to use it but my father came along and ruined that chance,"

He laughed at telling the story. He sat opposite of her and relaxed.

"If she's anything like her daddy, we're in trouble."

He said with a smile as he sipped his drink.

[Daiquiri Van-Derveld]

"I dont know about that. Her daddy isnt too bad to have around...most of the time."

The last was said with a grin.

"Is it just the two of you here? I would have thought your family would be present?"

Her maternal instincts were kicking in and Daiquiri was finding herself thinking about Katina......and the possibility of one day soon having a little brother or sister for her to play with.

[Count Fulkrehm]

"And we are."

Came the regal deep voice of the head vampyre of the council of nine. Fulkrehm walked past Daiquiri and stood near the black window Ezra had decsribed to her earlier.

" My son failed to inform us we would have .....guests. It is not often that during child birth outsiders are invited......But this is my son we're talking about."

He said as Ezra bristled at the statement.

"I am Count Fulkrehm Darkmere. Ezra's father. And you are?"

[Daiquiri Van-Derveld]

" My son failed to inform us we would have .....guests."

Yet another surprise. Daiquiri had been under the impression that this was Ezra's house and didnt need to tell anyone, with the exception of Kariss, that he wanted to share his joy with a friend.

Through the fragile link that she and Ez had seemed to share from the very beginning, Daiquiri picked up on her friend's prickly response to his father's words. Perhaps coming here hadnt been such a good idea after all.

Before replying to the elder Darkmere's inquiry, the blonde Sith looked him up and down appraisingly. In looks, Ezra was his father made over but in the polite manners department, Count Darkmere must have been standing at the end of the line when they were handed out.

After her quiet perusal, she finally answered his question, her tone even and smooth.

"Im Daiquiri Van-Derveld, a friend of Ezra's from ShadowFaene. Pleased to meet you."

[Count Fulkrehm]

"Indeed, Shadow Faene.....Ahhhh yes, the place my son wastes his time with...."

His words were cut as Ezra stood up and glared.

"But...to each his own I suppose......Well, Ms. Van-Derveld, I must tend to the preparations of the coming celebration. I take it you will be joining us?"

[Daiquiri Van-Derveld]

Ezra had said nothing to her about joining a celebration but Daiquiri wasnt about to let the older vampire know that. Instead, she did what any good friend would do...she lied.

"I havent decided yet. There are other matters that require my attention as well."

ShadowFaene was quite obviously a sore point between father and son and Daiq had no desire to get in the middle of it. Like Ezra, she hadnt taken kindly to Fulkrehm's words but as a guest, she was required to br gracious. And that was too bad, because she was itching to wipe that holier-than-thou smirk from his face.

[imported_Ezra]

"Father.....that is enough."

Ezra said in a harsh whisper at the elder Darkmere. With a smile Fulkrehm took his leave and walked back to the main chambers.
Turning an apologetic frown to Daiquiri, Ezra shrugged.

"I'm sorry Daiq. My father ...... doesn't see eye to eye with me on many things, and he believes my stay on Shadow Faene is folly and I should be here with Kariss."

He sat down and sighed.

" You see, my father and I, we don't get along very well. Not since I left Khar Sian. I was supposed to be leader of the Bloodpack and something for him to brag about. I had other plans and wanted to leave. We got into a big fight and I havent stepped foot on Khar Sian ever since. Seems I am not the son he wanted me to be. It doesn't matter that I stand on my own, have a roof for myself and my family. To him, I bring shame to his name. Unlike my sister who makes him proud and is a bloodpack member."

He made exaggerating gestures while he said that last piece.

" I guess I'm better off here, by myself with Kariss and the kids."

He looked up to see his daughter still smiling. And he smiled, being brought out of his mood swing.

[Daiquiri Van-Derveld]

Blue eyes followed Count Darkmere as he took his leave. With a slight smile, Daiquiri gently handed Alexi back to her father, then laid a hand on Ezra's arm.

"I think I should go....this isnt a good time for me to be here, Ez."

The vampire started to protest, but Daiq shook her head, cutting him off.

"Im more than pleased that you invited me to your home....but the timing just isnt right. Kariss is out of sorts, your Father isnt pleased with me being here...."

She smiled up at him.

"Another time, perhaps. Congratulations, Ez."

Leaning up, she brushed his cheek with her lips.

"You take care of these babies. I'll see you around sooner or later and dont worry...I can find my way out."

With a last smile for the baby in his arms, Van-Derveld turned away and quietly exited the house the way Ezra had brought her in.

Several minutes later, she was behind the controls of the Days, with the overhead bay doors parting in preparation for her take off. The engines rumbled to life and Daiq eased her ship up and out, pointing the Better Days toward the darkness of space.

[imported_Ezra]

Ezra sat alone with his daughter, on the huge antique couch. He Ran a finger gently down the baby's smooth cheek and offered a small smile.

"Alexi, I hope you grow up to be someone unlike your father. Always trying to please and never succeeding, trying to do the right thing and always shown what foolishness it is. But if you do end up being like me, then I promise you this my little angel...I will love you no matter what."

The little face that was calm and serene through his talk now showed another smile. Ezra kissed her forehead and laid back on the couch, cradling her in his arm as he relaxed by himself.

[Kariss]

Kariss finally walked up the stairs after a brief 'argument' about Kariss' appearance. Danae thought that since Kariss was a mother now, she should tone down her style of dress and Kariss thought other wise. When Danae pulled out a full length velvet gown that even just looking at it made her want to choke, Kariss quickly grabbed her usual leather catsuit and slipped into, thankful for the quick healing of their kind.

She had admired her well missed figure again as she slid the outfit on and sighed in relief when it zipped up in the back. A sudden smile crept onto her face as she thought of Ezra and some time alone with him.

'Well, I am healed...' She thought to herself as she sent her x-rated thoughts to Ezra, laughing softly as she gathered Draven in her arms.

"Let's go see your, Daddy, shall we?" She asked him, placing a kiss on his cheek.

[imported_Ezra]

Ezra had gotten the thoughts but was in a bad mood. He held his daughter as he reclined on the couch. He heard Kariss approaching and his expressionless visage met her as she exited the hall. Watching her approach.

"Where were you?"

He asked.

"I waited for you and my father shows up and ruins my surprise. Daiquiri wanted to see you and how you were faring. And I get shamed in my own home. "

He sighed and shook his head, Fulkrehm had shamed him before a friend and that didnt sit well with him.

[Kariss]

Kariss' eyes flashed and turned black as she looked down at Ezra.

"Do not get snippy with me, Ezra Darkmere." Kariss said, her mouth set in a stubborn line. "Blame your mother. I just spent the last half hour arguing with her about proper attire. I'm the one who should be sniping around here."

Kariss put Draven into his father's arms and walked to the window to over look the town.

"I'm sorry you think your father ruined things for you, Ezra. But it is no time to sit around and sulk. Your children were born today. Remember that. It is a time to celebrate."

Kariss turned back around to Ezra, her heart melting at the sight of him sitting on the couch with both children in his arms. Draven was fussing a bit and Kariss could not help but smile as she moved quietly to sit next to Ezra on the couch, taking Alexi in her arms and smiling down at the Darkmere beauty.

[imported_Ezra]

"I know it is a time for celebration, but that does not excuse the rudness shown around here."

He ran a hand through his hair and sighed.

"I had a surprise, and it was ruined and no one seems to give a damn about it."

He caught himself from raising his voice and kept tight lipped as he breathed, his son squirming in his arms, obsiously aggitated at his father's emotions.

[Count Fulkrehm]

"Because you have brought an outsider into this when you know damn well it is not done!!"

The Counts voice boomed in the chamber. He stood there a stern look on his face.

"You have already broken the ways with going into the birthing room and yet again with your Shadow Faene friend! When will you adhere to your teachings Ezra!?!"

Danae crossed the room and took the crying Draven from his father. She also gave Kariss a cautious look since she held Alexi, and didn't want her to get into this while holding the baby.

"You constantly neglect your duties to home and family to go trampsing around with these ....mortals!"

[imported_Ezra]

" Teachings?! We are NOT on Khar SianAre WE?!!"

"You don't have to be on Khar Sian to live by your laws!!"

Ezra stood up, his eyes hard and posture dangerous. Something very new to his family who witnessed it.

"They stopped being my laws the day you cast me from our home world father!! I live by MY rules now...MY laws!! It has helped me get through this life without YOUR help!!!And those mortals are my friends!!"

"FRIENDS!??! As from what I hear dear son, you aren't so much as treat as a friend!!"

The elder vampyre moved toward his son and Ezra did the same, they stood mere feet apart. Fulkrehm in total control, and Ezra near of losing his.

"You forget your place...boy."

"As you forget your's as well."

The two stood there, niether one budging an inch either way.

[Dante Imoralia]

Dante came up from the chambers, a grim look on his face as he burst through the doors. With one look at Danae and Kariss, they quickly left the room with the twins. Dante slammed the doors behind him, staring at Father and Son bent on destroying one another.

"That is enough!" Dante yelled, walking to them and forcefully seperating them. His hands on each of their chests, he pushed them further away from one another. "Do you forget this is a day of celebration? A day where two children of Darkmere blood...of Khar Sian heritage, have been born? Do you not both know of the significance of this?"

Ezra opened his mouth to argue when he spoke of Khar Sian but the look Dante sent him shut him up quickly.

"Ezra Darkmere, do not argue with me. I am in no mood for it." Dante hissed. All the vampyres of their kind knew Dante was quiet in nature, but once his temper was lit, to back away and keep away from him.

[imported_Ezra]

The look Ezra gave him was also saying he too was not in the mood for this. But it was happening as it always did when his father was around. Not to mention the new hardness around his eyes...and shorter fuse.

[Kariss]

Kariss placed Alexi into her grandmother's arms and ignored Danae's argument to let the 'men be and let them sort it out'.

Kariss walked back into the room with a smirk on her face as she walked past Dante to stand next to Ezra. She placed a gentle hand on his arm, asking him to look at her.

"Ezra please." She whispered.

Kariss looked at his Father and at Dante before turning her attention back to her lifemate. He wore the stubborn look on his face that she had seen over the past hundred years and grew to love. She tried not to smile, knowing he would bark at her if she told him how completely adorable he looked just then.

"Ezra, Father..." Her eyes went pleadingly back to the Count. "Do not do this...not now. The children are picking up on this hostility and are afraid. This is not the time or the place to do this. Please, for the children's sake?"

Kariss was trying the nice way, if that did not work, then they were going to wish neither of them had uttered a word.

[Dante Imoralia]

Dante had heard the door opened and turned to see Kariss walking back in with a look he had seen on Myriad's face countless times. The look that read loud and clear that she was not putting up with any of this in her home.

He caught the smirk on her face as she passed him and he had to fight one of his own from appearing. She was ready to reign hell on these two vampyres and he was glad he was going to be present to witness it.

His eyes went to the hard look on Ezra's face and he shook his head. Ezra was indeed a lucky man. This home, his stubborn family...Kariss as his lifemate. The thought suddenly entered his mind that if Ezra had not of snatched her up, he certainly would have. She was sinfully gorgeous with a body to die for and the biggest, most loving heart he had ever seen. That is what drew him to her, really. She was a spark that could not be ignored.

Dante looked between Father and Son and then back to Kariss.

'If you can do anything about this, please do it.' He laughingly sent to her, watching the smile fight to keep off her face as she turned her black eyes upon him and then back to Ezra.

[imported_Ezra]

When she placed her hand on his arm he shrugged it off and turned those hard eyes on her. Then it seemed he caught himself and took a step back.

"I...I'm sorry Kariss. I need to take a walk."

He pushed past her and hurridly made for the entrance of the retreat. Once outside, he rubbed his face with his hands and took deep breaths. His hands caught midway through his long hair and he paced back and forth. Trying to calm himself down and also figure out why he was acting this way.

[Kariss]

Kariss' eyes turned back to their normal brown color as they stared hurtfully after Ezra. She bit her lip to keep from crying. Today was supposed to be a happy day. One to celebrate. Instead, it's turning to one of hate.

"What is wrong with this family?" She suddenly yelled, throwing her hands up in disgust. She lowered her gaze to the floor for a moment and then up at Dante and the Count. She squared her shoulders and lifted her head.

"If you will excuse me?" She asked, moving to walk by the two older vampyres. If Ezra wanted to be alone, then fine, he would get all the time in the world.

[Dante Imoralia]

Dante watched Kariss leave the room, noting in the opposite direction in which Ezra had gone and he turned back around to look at his friend standing there looking as if his favorite chew toy had just been taken away from him.

"Well, this has been an interesting day. Thanks for inviting me along." Dante chuckled, his laughter growing even more at the look Fulkrehm shot him.

"My Friend, this always happens between you and Ezra when you get together. Whether you like it or not, he is in a different world than we are now. He has his own life, his own family...one that he is wanting to share with us. You should be grateful for that. Just not that long ago he wanted nothing to do with you. Kariss believes in what the Bloodpack does and wants to be more active in it...much to Ezra's dismay. I bet you love that, don't you?"

Dante started laughing again and shook his head, placing a hand on Fulkrehm's shoulder.

"Is it always going to be like this between you? Can you for once, both of you....put things aside and be a real family? Can you finally accept he does not want to deal in our ways? Think it over my friend or you are going to find yourself totally alone one of these days."

Dante looked at him, squeezed his shoulder and then turned to walk to the window to look over the village Kariss and Ezra protected.

[Count Fulkrehm]

"As long as he remains rebellious to our ways, there will never be no family. Alone? I think not, not with my lifemate and daughter. Ezra is an embarrasment. "


The count walked to the rear chamber where Danae and his lovely daughter were. He wanted no more talk of his foolish son and his foolish antics. He wanted to be with his grandchildren.

[imported_Ezra]

It was hours later when he decided to come back in. He was in the room where his little ones were. Draven slept and Alexi had awakened as her daddy stood over the bed, watching them and their mother sleep. Ezra carefully picked her up and was about to leave when he heard a noise. Draven had woken up too and he smiled as he picked his son up as well.

He carried them out to the main gathering room and sat down on the sofa, playing with them and talking to them. It lasted a couple of hours, till they both fell asleep in Ez's arms and even daddy fell asleep.

[Kariss]

Kariss awoke with a start to find the twins gone. She immediately became alert, then relaxed when she felt Ezra with them. She swung off the bed to go to them, when he remembered his words about being alone. She grabbed her jacket and flew out of the chamber, heading towards not the village, but the bigger city.

Kariss herself needed time alone and she would get it even if nobody else understood.

[imported_Ezra]

Waking from his nap, Ezra carefully looked at his children he held. They both were asleep and he needed to really rest. Gathering the two in his arms, he made his way to the main sleeping chambers and placed them in the crib. He looked around and noticed Kariss was gone. He reached out to her and found she was in the city, hunting.

He sent a little touch her way and crawled into bed. Turning to face the crib where his two little angels slept, he smiled and closed his eyes. He was happy, even if his father made his day a little tough, he let Kariss know he was....then gave in to the call of slumber.

[Kariss]

Kariss walked back into the chamber a few hours later, the first hours of dawn showing over the hills. She had stayed up, watching the sun rise before being drawn to sleep. She undressed, watching Ezra sleep peacefully next to the crib. Kariss walked over to make sure Alexei and Draven were ok, then moved to sit in a chair across from the bed.

Her eyes were drawn to Ezra's sleeping face. He was changing and everyone could see it but himself. He was not the same Ezra she had come to love all those years ago. The time at Shadowfaene had changed him. No longer was he the carefree, loving Ezra...he was ...harder...meaner. She thought about how he pushed her away earlier and shook her head. Never in the hundred years that she knew him did he ever do that to her.

Ezra knew how she felt towards Shadowfaene. The one thing she did not understand was 'why' he was staying there. It had to be something with that mortal Hera. Kariss' eyes narrowed at that thought and she grabbed a wrap and slipped into it.

Settling back into the chair, she drew her knees up to her chest and wrapped her arms around them. As she lowered her head unto the back of the chair, she felt herself slipping into sleep. She let out a sigh and closed her eyes, her last thoughts of Ezra, Hera and Daiquiri.

[imported_Ezra]

His arm went to his side where Kariss usually sleeps, and his eyes flew open and he sat up quickly when she wasn't there. Looking to the left next to the crib, she was sleeping in the chair. His face slackened at that knowledge...she chose to sleep alone then with him. He could feel it was daylight out, and rubbed his face. His sleeping habits had changed and he had been sleeping later and waking earlier than usual.

He slid out of the bed, and picked Kariss up off the chair and placed her on the large bed. He looked upon her sadly and checked his children. They slumbered still and he smiled at them. He looked at Kariss one last time, then bent to kiss her.

"Forgive me."

He whipsered as he thought of his conduct earlier with her and the rest. He left the chamber to sit alone on the couch in front of the blackened window to watch the daylight. Feeling at his lowest point and the draw of the daylight as others he knew had done. But with a glance at the chamber door he had just emerged from, the images of the three main reasons why he couldnt came to him. Ezra leaned forward and with head in hands let himself cry for the first time in a long time.

[Kariss]

Kariss was wakened by the sounds of Danae's and Izabell's voices cooing over the twins and she bit back a groan, knowing they had come in to find her in the chair and not in the bed next to Ezra. She did not want to open her eyes and deal with their quizzical looks or questions, but she had to. Especially when she felt their attention on her.

She opened her eyes and smiled at them, ignoring the raised eyebrows of Danae as she went to her children. They were content lying next to each other and she reached down to stroke their cheeks lovingly. Draven suddenly let out a yeowl and Kariss laughed, knowing he was hungry. Izabell excused herself and Danae, knowing Kariss would want some privacy as she fed them and Kariss turned to smile her thanks as they left the chamber.

An hour later, Kariss emerged from the chamber with Draven and Alexei in each arm. Ezra's father came to take them, wanting some time with them before he and the others had to leave. She kissed his cheek and then went to seek Ezra out.

She found him by the window and paused in the doorway, looking at him as he stared out the window.

"What's happened to you, Ezra?" She whispered, knowing he had heard her. She wrapped her arms around herself and turned her eyes to the floor, suddenly wondering if Ezra would stay.

[imported_Ezra]

"What's happened to you, Ezra?"

Her voice filled his ears and his eyes closed to the sound of it. Taking a deep breath, He lowly opened them again.

" I don't know Kariss......All I know is I'm losing control. And I don't know why."

He replied still looking out of the black glassed window, the sun had just dipped past the horizon and night was now upon Calidor.

"I feel alone Kariss.....like somehow I will face this on my own. "

[Kariss]

Kariss walked to him, kneeling down on the floor before him as she placed her hands on his thighs. She looked into his eyes for a moment before leaning in to kiss his lips, pouring her love, her need for him into it before pulling away.

"You are changing, Ezra. I can feel it and I know your family feels it. I do not like what I am getting from it." Kariss whispered. "Do something before it takes over, My Love."

Kariss could hear the Darkmere's playing with the twins and a smile lit her face as she looked back at Ezra.

"Your children need you, Ezra...I need you. More than you know."

Kariss kissed his cheek, placing soft kisses along his jawline before whispering against the skin of his neck how much she needed him. Her incisors nipped at his skin and she felt him jerk underneath her touch. Kariss leaned her body into his as she sank her teeth into his skin, drinking from him. One hand came up to grasp the hair at the back of his head, softly pulling his head back so that his neck was more exposed to her.

Taking only a little, Kariss pulled away, licking the small holes closed that she made and moved her ruby red lips stained with blood to his mouth. She looked into his eyes momentarily before kissing him, sharing the taste of his blood on her lips.

[imported_Ezra]

"You are changing, Ezra. I can feel it and I know your family feels it. I do not like what I am getting from it." Kariss whispered. "Do something before it takes over, My Love."

He now looked at her, and a knowing look of concern came over him.

"I'm trying Kariss......but what if I find myself no longer in control? "

Ezra was growing desperate and more recluse day by day, retreating within himself to suppress this inner demon. And it was taking its toll.

"Your children need you, Ezra...I need you. More than you know."

He was glad to hear those words come from her right then. He would need her soon and he could feel that on the horizon, thing was,,,,,would she still be at his side if the chips fell and he did lose control.....he pushed those thoughts aside as she took some of his blood, When she was done he wrapped his arms around her tightly and held her close.

"I'm scared Kariss, but I love you and children so much, I won't put any of you in danger if the time comes. Right now, being here.....back in your arms, is giving me the strength to keep going."

Turning his head, he sunk his own fangs into her neck. Taking as much as she did, he then pulled away and stood up. Taking her hand, he glanced at the chamber door where the rest were with the twins. A small smile appeared as he led her down to another chamber door. As they entered, he closed the door and pulled her into his arms.

"Finally some "Us" time."

[Kariss]

A wicked smile spread across Kariss' lips as Ezra pulled her into another room. The 'us' time that they so badly needed, that they had not had in over six months.

'But who's counting.' Kariss thought to herself with a wry grin as her hands slipped underneath Ezra's shirt, raking her nails against the taught muscles of his abdomen.

"I thought I was going to scream from frustration, My Love." Kariss whispered against the skin of his cheek before claiming his mouth with her own in a hot kiss.

[imported_Ezra]

Waking a few hours later, Ezra sat up and looked over at the sleeping form of his lifemate. He ran a finger across her delicate cheek and smiled. The mother of his children , the holder of his heart....what would happen should he become what he detests the most? The thought stayed with him for a while as he stared at the far wall.

He slid out of bed and dressed in his black robe. He walked out to the other chamber where the twins and his family were. They watched him as he entered. His sister came with his son who was sleeping, and he kissed Draven on the forehead, then Iza put him in the crib to rest. His mother brought over Alexi who was still awake and smiled as she was held be her father. Ezra laughed at that and kissed her too. Yeah, she was going to be like her daddy, bad sleeping habits but at least she'd be more cheerful than he was.

"Hello my angel, what'cha doin? huh? what'cha doin?"

he spoke in a silly manner and that made his daughter smile even more. It was then he decided to spend some time with him the kids and his beautiful Kariss. Iza handed him Draven who was now waking up, and headed for the other room where he left Kariss sleeping. He entered the chambers and gently placed Alexi next to her head. Thier daughter began making little gurgling sounds as she knew she was by her mother. Ezra smiled as Kariss stirred awake to find him with Draven and Alexi next to her.

[Kariss]

The smile lit her face before she ever opened her eyes. Kariss reached out to touch Ezra's cheek with her hand, cupping it gently. She smiled at him and their children.

'You know this is where you belong.' She sent to him quietly, then moved to sit up, bringing Draven into her arms. her face lit up looking at her son, her daughter. Never would she have dreamed that a baby, much less two, would make her so happy.

Kariss looked up at Ezra, knowing something was going on with him, but when she would try to help in some way, he would block her out. What ever it was he was going through, she would be there for him. She loved him, she was his lifemate and would help him through anything. Her eyes bored into his, relaying that message to him if he didn't already know.

[imported_Ezra]

"And I am never far from you, Im always here my love. "

He took his daughter in his arms and held her close.

" And I fear this one will be exactly like me Kariss....so even more so I will be around here hahahaha."

His look changed some and he got serious.

"Kariss, I may not be around much in the days to come....with what Im going through, I dont want to endanger you or the little ones. I may have to seek help outside of the circle. And only when I get that help, will I be back......and maybe for a long time Kariss."

he managed a small hopeful smile.

[Kariss]

"Ezra...you're confusing me..." Kariss began, but the twin's cries of hunger interrupted her and she gave a frustrated look before reaching for Alexei. Ezra moved, as if to leave while she nursed them and she stopped him with a hand on his arm.

"You do not have to leave, Ezra." She whispered, unbuttoning Ezra's shirt she had stolen from him after 'their' time alone. Alexei fed hungrily and Kariss looked down at her with love in her eyes as she took in the tiny image of her father. With a smirk and a sideways glance at Ezra, she murmured wickedly, "You're right...she is just like you."

[imported_Ezra]

He chuckled at her comment and nodded in agreement. The hardness to his eyes early on had disappeared and now the softness she knew was showing through.

"What is confusing Kariss? Tell me and I'll explain it better."

He said as he sat next to her in bed.

[Kariss]

Kariss shrugged her shoulder, turning to look at Ezra for a moment.

"I don't know, Ezra. At times it feels you need me so desperately, then when I reach out to you, you push me away." Tears began to spill from her eyes and she wiped them away with a free hand. "I want to help you, Ezra...through anything. You just won't open up to me sometimes..don't you know how much that hurts? Especially when you run off to that place for months at a time and I barely hear from you."

Kariss moved a well fed Alexi onto the bed next to Ezra and then pulled Draven into her arms.

"No matter what, My Love, I am there for you...if you would just open up to me." She whispered, turning her brown eyes to him. "I love you more than anything."

[imported_Ezra]

"And I love you.....But what Im going through now...endangers you and and the babies.....and I wont put you in that situation."

He got on the floor on his knees in front of her and looked into her eyes.

" Let me tell you whats wrong Kariss....Ever since that night you came to me at Shadowfaene and I got ..... well, punished.....Ive been losing control of my darkself....and its scaring me. Im trying to figure out who can help me besides my father."

He looked at her...knowing she knew he wasnt lying.

[Kariss]

Kariss cast her eyes downward, knowing his 'punishment' and what he was going through was her fault. If she hadn't of gone to him like she did, he would not be going through what he was.

"I am sorry for that." Kariss whispered. "It is all my fault and whether you argue with me on that or not, you know it is the truth."

She looked at him, daring him to say otherwise. She got up off the bed to walk around the room as Draven fed. She snuggled him close and turned to look back at Ezra.

"Your father would be the wisest one to go to, Ezra...but I know how you feel towards that idea. He will be there if you ever need him, please remember that."

Kariss walked to the bed, placing Draven next to his sister and buttoned up the shirt. She knelt on the floor next to Ezra, taking his hands in her's.

"Get help if you must...but do not go to Hera for it. I know she is wise in the Dark Force, but do not go to her. I beg of you." Kariss' eyes searched his, knowing that if he did go to Hera for help, it would be the beginning of their down fall.

[imported_Ezra]

"I cannot go to the one who did this to me Kariss....I need to search....but dont worry, Know that I will be fine....I just hope I find them before I lose it."

Pulling her to him, he held her like that would be his last.....funny thing was, somehow it seemed it would be...something told him deep down he may lose her to this.

[Kariss]

Kariss clung to him, praying that he would make it through what was troubling him. She knew, deep inside of her, if he could not control it, Fulkrehm and Dante would have no choice but to send out the Bloodpack after him. That was one thing she did not want to happen.

"I am with you no matter what, My Love." Kariss whispered against his temple. She pulled away, placing the content twins in their crib and then turned back to Ezra, holding out her hand to him. As he took it, she brought him up to her and she lifted the shirt up and over her head, flinging it to the other side of the room.

Ezra opened his mouth to speak, but she placed a soft finger against his lips, quieting him. She slowly undressed him, letting her hands wander over every inch of him, as if memorizing him, branding his image in her mind for ever. She gently pushed him on the bed, crawling over him.

"This is not about sex, about lust...it is about love, Ezra." She whispered against his lips. She kissed her way down his neck to his chest. She looked up at him to find him watching her intently and she winked at him before sinking her teeth into his chest to drink from him.

[imported_Ezra]

Love......that word meant so much to him as it did for her. It showed in their actions and reactions as they spent time alone from the rest of the family. They loved each other like it was thier last night together, they ended up slumbering limbs interwined with each other.

He woke with a start, a short cry caught in his throat as he sat up quickly. He was looking around and running a hand over his face as he looked at Kariss sleeping. He was hit by that same dream again.

[Kariss]

Kariss stirred and opened her eyes to find Ezra sitting up in bed. She slowly sat up, her hands going to his bare shoulders. She placed a soft kisses on his back and then layed her against him.

"We've been through worse, My Love." Kariss stated softly. Ezra turned to look at her and she smiled, kissing his cheek.

She let out a sigh, her arms coming around to wrap around his waist as they sat there together. She knew once Ezra left for ShadowFaene again, she and the twins would be going to stay at Khar Sian indefinately. As much as she was looking forward to it, part of her wanted to stay there and keep Ezra hidden, help him deal with what he was going through, but like he said, he felt like he had to deal with this in his own way and Kariss was beginning to agree.

She would just be there when he needed her.

[imported_Ezra]

"I suppose we have my love, but this ..... this could be more costly than anything we've been through."

His arms went around her.

"And that's what scares me.....losing you and the children."

[Kariss]

"What have I told you, Ezra?" Kariss asked, her arms tightening around him. "You will not lose us."

She placed a kiss on his back, her teeth nipping his skin. She sighed, laying her head against his back. She slid out from behind him to position herself infront of him on her knees. She brought one hand up to cup his cheek as she looked into his eyes.

"You must get help, My Love." She whispered, leaning into him as his arms wrapped around her naked body. "I will be there for you for always, you know that. Banish any thoughts from your mind about losing us. It will not happen."

Kariss noted the paleness of his color and raised an eyebrow.

"Ez, you must go feed." Kariss said softly.

[imported_Ezra]

Ezra got changed and waited till he was alone. He headed down to the Empress Marva and entered, he opened a cold box and pulled out a clear bag which he opened up and poured its liquid contents into a glass. He drank it down and opened one more, drinking that as well. He felt his hunger dissipate and he breathed a sigh of relief.

He couldn't hunt, not like this.....too much to happen, too much to lose.

[Kariss]

Kariss came back in from her feeding, a smile lighting her face as she saw Dante sitting with the children. He looked up, returning her smile as she came to reclaim them.

"Thank you, Dante." She whispered, placing a kiss on his cheek.

Dante nodded, then stood and went to stand next to Fulkrehm and his family. Kariss smiled at them, then realized they were getting ready to leave. A sadness washed over her, realizing she would be going to Khar Sian soon herself. Her thoughts went to Ezra, reaching out to him, begging him to come to her. She would be saying good bye to him shortly and wanted one more night alone with him before she left with the children.

'Ezra, my love...please come say goodbye to our guests...and spend what little time we have left with me in your arms.' She sent to him, turning on a worried, but happy smile to the Count.

"Your presence here has been an honor, Father." She smiled, watching as a smile crept onto his face. "I look forward to spending more time with you all at Khar Sian."

[Count Fulkrehm]

"And I do with you as well daughter. You bring happiness to us all. "

He said with a slow nod of his head, and not once had he mentioned Ezra. He never would. Although it seemed they all expected him to accept his wayward son, he could never.....not like Elijah, He was always proud of his eldest son, Ezra was always rebellious... always taking the wrong path and acted as if it were a riteous choice. He knew soon it would catch up to him, and then Fulkrehm would have to take matters into his own hands. His son would shame him even more and he would be there to rectify that inequity of his son. He wondered if Kariss would understand the "why" of him never accepting her lifemate....his son. The same "why" he would send his beloved Bloodpack to claim his life.....something he had forseen recently, something he kept from everyone...even Dante.

[imported_Ezra]

Walking in, feeling his appetite sedated, yet his color looked more pale then he should be. The dark color under his eyes showed even more. His face showed a hint of irritation, yet in truth he was fighting the urge to go and kill. He stopped next to his mother and hugged her, as well as his sister. He turned and shook Dante's hand and then held his hand out to his father who just looked at him. Fulkrehm just nodded to his son and walked past, leaving Ezra standing there with a hard look to him as his hand was ignored.

They left and all that was there was Kariss and himself. He looked at Kariss and embraced her.

" We'll need to arrange meeting times here. My father will never allow me on Khar Sian my love, and I would never want to set foot on that place again. Although I know you must go with the children, I am satisfied to know they will thive and be taught well there by my friends in the Bloodpack. And I know you will be such an excellent mother to them."

He said as he caressed her cheek.

"I will miss you immensely Kariss."

He took her hand and led her to the main chambers. There he pulled her into an embrace where she could feel his need for her, as well as his fear of the situation that was happening with him. As they prepared to spend the remaining time loving each other, he looked into her eyes.

"Kariss.... I know, I havent been the best lifemate.... I havent been around alot..... I'm afraid of whats going to happen.... I dont know what will come of this, but I feel its not a good thing...... I couldnt bear it if because of what might happen .... that you'd...hate me."

[Kariss]

Kariss could feel Ezra's emotional torment. She lowered her head for a moment, trying to figure things out herself. His heartache was her's to feel. It also upset her she could not find a way to help the one person she loved the most in this universe.

"If you are not welcome there and will not come see me or the children, then why am I even going, Ezra?" She asked painfully, knowing the answer already. It was for the children.

Kariss was not going to deny being excited about living on Khar Sian. Her budding friendship with Dante was one thing she was looking forward to, as well as catching up with Redeemer and the other members of the Bloodpack. Being alone was one thing she did not like. If Ezra could have promised her to stay with her there at their home, meaning it this time, she would stay...but Kariss knew he would not and that's what hurt.

"Kariss.... I know, I haven't been the best lifemate.... I haven't been around alot..... I'm afraid of what's going to happen.... I don't know what will come of this, but I feel its not a good thing...... I couldn't bear it if because of what might happen .... that you'd...hate me."

Her dark eyes looked into his and a smirk came over her full lips.

"You are right, you have not been the best lifemate." Kariss agreed, giving him a 'What, think I was going to argue with that?' look. "You know how this all could have been avoided, Ezra. I don't need to say it."

Reaching up wtih a hand, she cupped his cheek and stroked her thumb over his skin. She looked into his eyes and then moved closer into his embrace.

"We have both changed so much, My Love." Kariss whispered. "I will be there for you, you know that. I will always love you no matter what."

Placing a kiss on his neck, Kariss murmured his name against his skin, sliding his shirt off of his chest before slowly sinking her teeth into him, drinking from him his very essence.

[imported_Ezra]

After she had done with her taking of his blood, it was usually his turn. But this time he held back.....he didnt take her's. He couldnt take her's .....the urge to take more than he wouldve was too much, and the look in his eyes told her enough. She knew there was a danger, they shared a bond deep enough that she knew and understood.

He would'nt bring harm willingly to her, never had and he never will. And she knew that too. What ever was changing in him would do her harm and he wouldnt allow it to happen. He picked her up and placed her on their bed and spent the remaining time they had in her arms. This time both of them putting more of an uregncy into their loving. Both knowing that it would be soemtime before they would see each other again....he more so as he knew this thing would hit him soon.

[Kariss]

Kariss awoke the next evening, immediately check on the twins sleeping peacefully and then turned back to watch Ezra sleep. Even in the sleep of the Dead, he seemed to be plaqued by what was troubling him. She reached out and stroked his cheek, leaning in to place a soft kiss on his forehead.

Moving her naked body closer to him, she wrapped her arms around Ezra and let silent tears fall down her cheeks. She knew this would be the last time she saw him for a long time and it was killing her. She could not live without him and silently vowed to do what ever she could to help him.

Fulkrehm came to her thoughts then and she closed her eyes. She knew deep in her heart that if Ezra were to do something mad, the Bloodpack would be sent after him and his fate sealed. Would Fulkrehm send her as well?

Placing another kiss on Ezra's forehead, she brought her leg up to rest on his side as she watched his face lovingly. She let her finger tips trace over his features softly.

"Awake My Lifemate." She gently commanded, kissing his neck softly, nibbling on his skin with her teeth.. "Awake and love your mate one last time."

[imported_Ezra]

His eyes came open and they held a sort of an eerie madness within them, then as he turned to face her, they seemed to clam down. He brought a hand up to caress her cheek, and smiled at her. He was going to really miss her and the children, he knew he would miss some of the things he would give anything to witness, like their first words....first steps, first alot of things....but he shared a bond with them, and that couldnt be lost.....they would remember him.

" your wish is my command my love."

He said in a husky whisper as he pulled her close, enfolding his arms around her and capturing her with a needful kiss.

[Kariss]

Kariss watched as Ezra packed up the last of his things and looked down at her own bags. The twins were laying happily on the bed and she blinked back tears. As much as she was looking forward to going to Khar Sian, she did not want to leave Ezra. If she could take him and their children and run, hide from everyone, she would...but she knew in her heart and her mind that Ezra needed the help that she could not give him.

Part of Kariss wanted to tell Ezra that they should end what they had until he was well, but neither one of them could survive that. Though they will not be together, they will be linked and can keep each other strong that way. To end their relationship, not being able to sever that link...would drive them both mad.

The tears fell down her cheeks and she sniffled, turning away quickly before Ezra could see them. She wrapped her arms around herself and walked a few steps away from him, wiping her wet cheeks with the back of one hand.

"I love you, Ezra." She whispered, hearing him behind her.

[imported_Ezra]

Arms wrapped around her waist from behind, and he nuzzled her neck.

"And I love you Kariss."

He turned her around to face him and he wiped her tears away with his thumbs. He smiled for her, to also boost her spirits.

" Don't cry my love, it will be ok in the end .... we need to believe that. I will be with you and the children as you will be with me. We will pull through this.....I just wish I wouldn't be missing in the children, but this is most important. "

He kissed her deeply and held her tight. He didn't want to let go....he wanted to keep her there in his arms. But he broke the embrace and kissed his children, handing Kariss their son, he picked up Alexi and he walked them to the waiting ship....The BloodMoon Sat in it's berth in the hidden bay, and he helped Kariss take the babies up and load them in their pods for the trip they were take. Kissing her and hugging her one more time, he told her he loved her, and then exited the ship. Standing in the docking bay next to the Empress Marva, he watched her lift off and head to Khar Sian. He turned and boarded the Marva to head back to Shadowfaene.