Post by Hikaru on May 7, 2010 6:57:20 GMT -5
Hikaru Mekanic made his way along the tunnels to Isabella's room. He knew she was awake and steeled himself for a second before lifting his hand and knocking on the dragon etched doorway.
Isabella Bouvier sat against the leather couch, with her legs curled up to her chest, She had unpacked everything last night, and hidden her weapons through out the room.. Even with that she still felt unease.. She tensed when she heard a knock at the door, She sat there a moment before she pushed herself up off the couch and walked over to the door, her hand easing to the small of her back a moment as she called through the door " Whose there?"
Hikaru Mekanic spoke softly but it traveled through the door "It's Hikaru Isabella... Aydryan and I.. have something we need to discuss with you."
Isabella Bouvier eased her hand from her back, while the other unlocked the door then eased it open slightly " ok." She mumbled as she opened the door wider, looking past him seeing if there was anyone else around.. Her brows knitted together " Where is Aydryan?"
Hikaru Mekanic smiled weakly "He is in the main lounge waiting on us." He moved to the side both to let her see that he was alone, and also to let her pass through the door.
Isabella Bouvier lip thinned slightly. Walking through the cats.. Even with the master of the city. She straightened slightly and nodded.. Since when did she become a timid mouse that hides in its hole.. oh yeah.. her heart picked up its pace, from anxiety. She felt off.. and she did not know how to change it.. She walked past him, shutting the door tightly.. before she paused with her head down cast " Lead the way"
Hikaru Mekanic hesitated a moment watching her then nodding. By the end of the night he fully expected her to hate him and wouldn't blame her one bit for it. "You don't have to be afraid down here, other than getting lost." He feigned a small smile and began leading her through the tunnels, nodding to Gaven as they passed his post and continuing on toward the lounge.
Isabella Bouvier lifted her head just enough to look at his face, but not his eyes " No one is ever safe Hikaru. I learned from my mistake in ever thinking other wise" She nodded and followed him through the tunnels in silence, her hand kept close to her body..
Hikaru Mekanic hit the hidden switched and toggles that opened doors quickly though he made sure she saw where each was along the way. Pulling back the dark green curtains to reveal the lounge and all it's comforts, his eyes already drawn to Aydryan and the weak smile fading. Part of his wanted to tell Izzy to run, to leave and never come back but he knew that this wasn't something they could run from, any of them.
Isabella Bouvier watched Hikaru move, each passage that open. Each switch.. She put it all to memory, that was something that never change no matter what state of mind she was in. Though she did not understand one thing. Why were the masters wanting to speak with her. Perhaps it was her experience with the doctor, maybe that was it.. Her eyes widened slightly as he parted a curtain revealing a warm cozy room with a fire and everything.. But even as it was, it did not make her fell one ounce better.. She saw Aydryan sprawled across the couch, she couldn't help but remember the pile she had been in at Fang Bangers.. a pile she was in for comfort.. for the need to be touched.. That was something that had changed.. She gave him a slight nod before she walked further into the room.. She stopped when she neared the sitting area.. Waiting to hear whatever they had to stay.
Aydryan Underwood had heard them moving closer, knowing the sounds of the catacombs very well. When they both appeared through the curtains, his eyes moved to Hikaru and he smiled slowly. Then he moved his attention to Isabella. The smile remained as he flowed to his feet and gestured with one hand to the longer couch, "Please, Isabella....sit...relax." He moved to stand beside the fireplace, waiting.
Hikaru Mekanic let the curtain fall behind Isabella and himself, moving to the chair and taking a seat uneasily. <<Go easy ami intime... I do not think she has slept yet, if much at all.>> His worry evident on his features though he tried to hide them as best he could.
Isabella Bouvier shifted in her stance, so that her back was no longer to the entrance they had came in.. Even with the curtain, so many she did not know if there were more entrances to this room, that had bothered her.. Her fingers grabbed hold of her sleeve, fumbling with it slightly, while her other hand remained at her side.. she stood there a moment, not sure whether to take a seat or stand.. They had not threatened her, only offered a safe haven.. so why did she feel so uneasy.. to many reasons.. she nodded slowly as she moved slowly and took a seat at the edge of the couch, with her back straight.. " Thank you.. " She said softly.. Her eyes moved over to where the curtain had fallen a moment before looking at Hikaru briefly.. then allowed her eyes to look before her, watching the flame dance.
Aydryan Underwood: As Aydryan watched them both settle, both so ill at ease, his gaze slowly lowered to the floor. When he began to speak, as always, it was quietly and he moved to sit upon the large low divan. His head rotated from side to side so that both knew he was addressing them equally. "What I am about to discuss with both of you is very serious ....but....it is not life threatening." He drew another slow breath as he settled, considering his words, "Hikaru is young and unfortunately ..... his maker .... was not the sort to share important information with him." He ran his hands first up his thighs, then down again. "Hikaru cares for you Isabella and because of that and the fact that you were in danger, injured.....his subconsciously took actions to insure your survival." He paused to let that information sink in before he continued.
Hikaru Mekanic closed his eyes as Aydryan spoke the feeling of wanting to crawl into a corner and curl up was still with him and grew slightly at the reminder. His eyes eventually opened and he looked to Isabella praying for her to understand and preparing himself if she didn't.
Isabella Bouvier's eyes moved away from the fire as Aydryan moved and took a seat before her. Something as so innocent as it, seemed to make her uncomfortably.. Why she did not know, but the feeling was there. She lifted her gaze just enough so that it came to the center of his nose, and she focused on that. Old habits come back apparently when life slaps you in the face.. Her body was already rigid, her muscles already tense so even as she heard Aydryan speak, her features never changed as she listened.. She did not understand what he was talking about. Hikaru being young, and his maker keeping him ignorant.. to what.. She felt more unease fill her, she did not like not knowing.. not understanding..When I was in danger.. injured.. took actions.. She looked up then, looking into Aydryan's one eye.. " I do not understand... What actions were taken.. "
Aydryan Underwood watched her as she moved through her own thoughts, noting how she yet avoided his gaze. He reached out mentally to wrap supporting calm to Hikaru as he continued, "Master Vampires have the ability to create Human Servants. The word Servant, however, is VERY misleading. The human is in no way weak or submissive to the Master if they do not choose to be. The bond between the Master and the Human is very powerful, very strong and once completed only death can sever it." He paused only long enough to take a slow breath of air, "It takes four marks, four steps to create a true Human Servant......and Hikaru has taken two of them...with you."
Hikaru Mekanic watched Isabella while he pulled that comforting support that Aydryan offered around himself though he did not relax much into it. He couldn't. His voice was quiet, barely above a whisper, "I'm sorry Isabella."
Isabella Bouvier shifted in her seat as Aydryan began speaking again. Her heart began to pick up its pace almost unnoticed at the mention of Human Servants. She had ran into a few a time or two back home, and on another occasion in Washington. She knew what they were, they did the vampires bidding during the day.. While their master slept.. She knew they weren't so easy to take down either, especially defending their master, when she had a warrant of execution to deliver.. Though Aydryan's words contradicted some of her own previous experiences but even so she continued to listen.. She did not understand how this had anything to do with Hikaru and her.. And when she Heard Aydryan pause, her stomach did a flip, and her chest tightened.. For whatever reason the memory of violet fire came into her head.. and Hikaru's voice as she laid strapped down.. Her eyes darted to Hikaru, looking into the eyes that matched the flames. And she took in a sharp breath.. No.. And as soon as her head made the connection, Aydryan confirmed it.. Her heart slammed into her chest, causing her to jerk up and stand.. As she shook her head violently " No.. no. no.. " And that's when her anger came, she was almost relieved to have it back.. it was her comfort, her companion.. she took hold of it as it were her lover and held tightly to it before her eyes moved back to Aydryan, then back to Hikaru.. jumping between the two " Undo it"
Aydryan Underwood: As soon as her anger flared, his major ability awakened. He did not have to look at her for it work, it simply was. All her anger would turn to him, making him the focus of it and no one else. "It cannot be undone. Not unless Hikaru dies or he attempts to make another Human Servant. You do not have to obey him. Your will is still your own. You are stronger now via his strength. It is you that benefits here, not Hikaru." He lifted a leg and clasped his fingers together around his knee. "Hikaru is.....no...regrets greatly what has happened. He only wished to help you, protect you."
Hikaru Mekanic saw her anger rise on her face, glancing to Aydryan when his ability clicked into place and he locked his own anger up tight quickly, fighting not to cringe at Izzy's demand. "I am sorry Isabella, I truly am. If I could... I would. I did not want this for you." He shifted slightly in his seat and forced himself to keep his eyes on Izzy watching her anger play across her face.
Isabella Bouvier's finally rested on Aydryan, her anger taking to its peak. Giving her back some of what was so violently taken from her. Her hands clenched into fist, the ache was still there, should still be there.. but she did not feel it, not as her anger was there.. She had been too many times, this week had she had something done against her will.. " Where was my will when this occurred Aydryan.. You say that I still have my will BUT where was it when the marks were given" Her voice was low, as it usually did when her anger rose.
Isabella Bouvier: Turning quickly, like an artist forming creating something else entirely.. " Find someone else.. Who wants it.. find someone else.. who he WONT REGRET THEN.. because you say I only benefit.. I do not see anything.. for there are other ways to gain strength.. " She took a step forward then, as her eyes zeroed on Aydryan " Wants protect a vampire executioner.. is that what want you want... Someone who kills your kind.. and does not loose sleep over it.." She heard Hikaru's apology, she had almost forgotten that he had been in the room, she turned her eyes to look at him.. her heart tightened again, She loved him, she truly did.. but even as that love tried to surface, she forced it back down.. it was not what she wanted right now.. not what she needed.. And something struck her head, he would have to die.. for it to break.. death.. always things end with death.. " Is that why.. that you wanted me HERE.. for my Safety.. or for yours." She spat out..
Aydryan's face became a very calm unreadable mask. When he spoke, his voice had lowered in volume and his one eyed gaze never left Izzy's face. "Where was your will? Your will was subjugated by pain and fear the first time.....after you were raped. Hikaru was attempting to aid you, to help you. The second time you were probably drugged in some way, held captive by the ..... Doctor. Again, Hikaru was attempting to save you, help you. You, my dear Isabella, were in jeopardy." The cool edge couldn't be kept from his voice because this woman wasn't seeing passed the victims trauma within her. "Hikaru regrets that he did these things without being aware of them, without being able to tell you first. Not that he regrets you." There were other words that he wanted to say, but he bit them back, kept his own bile and acid from tainting this moment....for Hikaru's sake. "May I remind you, Isabella....we also kill. While I cannot speak for others...I know that I do not lose sleep either."
Hikaru Mekanic's face went blank, not the calm casual mask he usually wore. He was thankful to Aydryan for biting his tongue, but could not help but speak up, at least in part. "I do not regret YOU... I regret it being you because YOU do not want it. Would not have wanted it."
Isabella Bouvier jerked her head back to Aydryan, and as his words only added to her anger. Bringing up her weaknesses, her moments that she had fought and lost. " How long has it been known then.. I thought I was turning into a shifter.. That was why I was leaving.." Her head did another spin, everyone had thought as much, that was why she was taken.. because.. The doctor wanted to see.. wanted to know.. " I was taken because of that Factor.. and cast out.. because I was not.. What Everyone thought I was to be" The fury that began to climb, something that was usually so hot, began to grow cold.. " I do
Isabella Bouvier: not need to be reminded of what you are.. either of you.. I have seen first hand what you are both capable of.. " She turned then to Hikaru, and even as his word hit her, it shattered a piece inside her, the cage she had around what she so desperately tried to bury and let fade.. Moisture began filling her eyes around the edges, causing them to sting from the hurt and pain " You do not KNOW.. What I want.. You NEVER BOTHERED to ask.. Do not for one second try to tell me otherwise.. " She turned her back to them, both.. not wanting to see..not wanting them to see.. As she tried to grab hold of her anger, the cold before she lost and broke completely.." You do not REGRET the Choice.. and yet.. you do.. someone who does not benefit.." She thought back that moment trying to remember all she knew about human servants.. and what it meant.. trying so very hard to think over the chaos that was inside her mind and heart..
Aydryan Underwood stood up slowly, every flex and extension of muscle a work of elegance, a coiled snake. He moved up behind Isabella, reached out, wrapped long fingers around her bicep and spun her around to face him. Now his eye blazed with power, though his voice still did not rise, "Stop these hysterics....now. The point you seem to be missing is that Hikaru....DID NOT KNOW.....I repeat....KNOW...what he was doing. His actions came from the heart, the subconscious." He gave her arm a quick shake that held incredibly restrained strength. His desire to make her see, to calm herself was enough that his ability sucked the anger right out of her. "See passed your shock, Isabella.....see the truth of this."
Hikaru Mekanic began to hang his head at Izzy's words, dropping his gaze from her until Aydryan stood and grabbed her, spinning her around. He stood abruptly and almost stopped him, but understood, knowing he did not mean to harm her, just for her to see. His shoulders slumped and he stepped away, standing beside the couch, his back to them. He didn't speak, not trusting his voice or his words right now.
Isabella Bouvier felt fingers wrap around her upper arm, as she spun. Her free arm automatically went to her back for her gun.. Even as she stared up into his eyes that looked like a sea aflame.. She clicked off the safety and began to raise it as her eyes dropped to where his hand was.. Knowing that he could shatter the bone without effort.. " Remove.. YOUR .. HAND.. NOW" Her words felt like blades against her tongue, as her heart pounded as the anger heightened.. But just as it was about to devour her, it began to fade.. rapidly.. till it was all gone with out a trace..leaving only the other emotion to swell up and takes its place.. She blinked a few times, before she lifted her glossy eyes.. " What. now."
Aydryan Underwood heard the click of gun safety, one brow rising in reaction. Some small part of him almost wished that she would shoot him, then all this civility could come to an end. But then his gaze lifted to Hikaru and his hand fell away from Isabella. "A good question. You can go your separate ways and wait for the day that Hikaru chooses another. The two of you discuss the matter, come to an understanding and mutually consummate the bond and finish it." He turned away then and walked to the fire, staring into the flames, "Either way...my part in this is over. I have explained what has happened. I will explain the next two marks if that is the desire of you both." There was a heaviness in his voice, "I am ultimately, not a part of this bond."
Hikaru Mekanic heard the safety click off on her gun and glanced back in time to see the gun clearing it's holster, his whole body jerking in response then she calmed. His gaze lifted to Aydryan as he walked away to the fireplace. His heart squeezing painfully at the pain he knew was there just under the surface. He wanted to know how to do the next two marks, so that he WOULDN'T do it again. Wouldn't hurt either of them again. But that didn't need to be voiced if Izzy didn't want to know it or hear it. "Now it is your choice Isabella."
Isabella Bouvier's arm grew heavy, the coldness of the metal from the but of the gun began to warm against her skin. She looked down to her side, starring at the gun a moment.. before she clicked back on the safety and returned it back to it holster at the low of her back.. It hurt her heart at the thought of Hikaru choosing another, but at the same time she did not like having had her will taken either.. Confusing the hell out of her.. It all happened accidentally.. She saw that now.. But in this moment she was not sure about what actions to take.. Her gaze followed Aydryan as he moved away to the fire place. She let her eyes look over his back, there was something in his voice.. it made her want to comfort him.. But she did not understand why.. one minute she had her gun in her hand prepared to shoot, the next she wanted to hug him.. She shook her head.. before she moved across the room tracing his footsteps before she came to stand beside him.. And without a thought as to why she raised her hand and rested it gently on his shoulder " I do not know what is to happen.. I do not know the dynamics of all of this.. or how to respond.. But I do know that whatever Decision is to be made.. You are to be apart of it.. because whatever this is.. it does include you too" she spoke very softly, unsure of how he would react.. unsure about so many things... She turned to Hikaru, with now soft eyes, with her anger gone.. all that was left was how she felt.. and that was seen in her eyes " Not just mine.. it includes all of us."
Aydryan Underwood: The shoulder beneath her hand tightened and remained so as Isabella spoke. He held his own thoughts concerning his part of this relationship between Hikaru and Isabella. Whether or not he was a part of it fell mostly on him, he understood this already. Could he share Hikaru? He wasn't sure. Then he asked himself whether or not Hikaru would share him, should he take a Human Servant himself. Such convoluted things, the machinations of vampires. Slowly the tension bled from his body and he lifted his hand to touch hers, "However I may be involved, Isabella....at this moment....it is only between you and Hikaru." He took her hand within his and lifted it to his lips to brush the back of her fingers. Then he let her go and walked to Hikaru. His hand lifted to cup his beloved's cheek, "I am ever with you, ami intime. You have but to whisper and I will hear." He settled a tender kiss to the corner of Hikaru's mouth. Then, silently, he walked away and slipped behind heavy drapes.
Hikaru Mekanic knew that all of this was tearing them both apart inside, though not necessarily apart from each other. It thawed a small part of him when Izzy moved to comfort Aydryan, and another small part when he did not exactly push her away. He met his eye as he cupped his cheek, his own focusing on his lover's as if he still had both, as he always did. When Aydryan turned his back and walked away, disappearing behind the curtain his whispered those three cherished words both in mind and barely below a whisper and allowed a single tear to fall, the pain of hurting his ami intime, his beloved, overwhelming him for a moment before he pushed it down again. His hand rose up, wiping that tear away quickly. He didn't turn around to face Isabella as he spoke for her to hear now, his voice roughened with emotion, hesitant with the fear of what was to come, what he did not know. "I understand your anger Isabella... and if you hate me right now.. I understand that too." He expected no less. He felt like he had been thrown back in time, kicked too many times, but it was his own boot that was swinging, aimed straight for his rear.
Isabella Bouvier felt the tension her touch had given him, her eyes moved slowly away from Hikaru, back to Aydryan as he touched her hand. She could not help but to suppress the frown on her lips. How could that be so, he needed to have a say. It was not right.. She did not know why but she felt it and knew with certainty.. That he was right about so many things tonight.. but wrong on one.. She closed her eyes a moment, for the first time in a long time allowed the briefest of touch to calm her.. even as he lifted her hand to his lips, she did not pull back.. and just in the moment he released her, she opened her mouth to argue.. to tell him to stay.. but then snapped it close, as he moved to his lover.. She turned her back then giving them their moment.. She felt a coldness against her cheek, causing her brows to knit together not.. understanding.. she raised her hand to her the wetness, from a tear she did not know had fallen.. She wiped it away as her eyes moved back to the flames of the fire.. Hearing the swish of the curtain.. knowing that Aydryan had left.. ..She heard Hikaru's words, and it caused a strain on her heart, that has happened all to often as of late.. " I've been angry a very long time Hikaru.. longer than I care to admit.. but for right now it is gone.." She took in a sharp breath.. hurt that he could think of such a thing.. and even though it hurt she realized.. there was a Truth she needed to say.. " I could never hate you Hikaru.. no matter how angry I become.. I could never bring myself to hate you.. " She took another shaky breath.
Hikaru Mekanic settled himself, closing himself off from Aydryan partially with the promise that he would fill him in later, for now he needed his thoughts to be his own. It was hard for him to be separated, even something as simple as this but he did it. Slowly he turned, giving Isabella his side, violet eyes peering through the thick fall of hair that shielded his face. "I am glad... relieved that you do not hate me." Something seemed to relax in him slightly, and something else tensed at the same time. He knew what she was getting at, afraid to hear it even though he knew it. "I do not know where to go from here. I don't want to hurt anyone else by not knowing. But..." He hesitated, wondering for a moment how much she actually knew about him, his past. He knew it was an abrupt change in subject, but he had to know. "Those files you were given.. on murders in the 20's... Who...?" He didn't know how to ask it, the confusion on his face before he shook his head, turning to her fully and quoted something he had read once. "The past is not something we can change, whether it be our own or other's. All we can change is our future and how we live it." He looked to the flames for a moment, praying for the right words that would not hurt, but knew there was nothing he could do or say that would not.
Isabella Bouvier raised her hand slowly, against the flame. So the light traced over each one of her fingertips. She felt the warmth and the heat, comforted by the fire. knowing that it could easily burn you if you got to close. That was how she felt, She felt like she was the fire.. She nodded slowly at his words, while another set of words played at the tip of her tongue.. Wanting to be said, but at the same time not wanting to be heard.. " I do not wish to hurt anyone either.. " She said softly as her eyes remained staring at her hand, even as the heat began to fluster her skin... She tilted her head to the side as she considered her words...Remembering exactly what he was talking about.. She had burned them.. all thrown them into a fire like the one before her.. and watched them turn to ash " The files were destroyed Hikaru.. they were about Nikki.. or I assumed as much.. given with the knowledge I had.. but they are gone.. just as her maker is" she lowered her hand then, allowing it to fall to her side.. Feeling a calm, that felt like after a storm.. And for the first time in weeks saw things with a clarity " Forget to remember all that is forgotten.. " She sighed then and turned to look at him..and stood there staring into his violet eyes
Hikaru Mekanic met those eyes a slight frown etching across his features though there was a slight relief there and a new tension. He would have to tell her... EVERYTHING... about his past. Human and vampire. He opened his mouth to start then faltered, again changing the subject. "Are you hungry?"
Isabella Bouvier brows furrowed together a moment confused by the sudden change, and then her stomach growled.. forgotten to eat that day " Yes.. actually" she said softly
Hikaru Mekanic smiled a very quick curve of his lips as his hand rose slowly, palm up, his fingers loose. "Then we should go to the kitchen. If... you would allow this very young and inexperienced vampire to cook for you?" his head tilted, a slight twinkle of mischievousness held within, but behind that was still the pain, the awkwardness that was between them.
Isabella Bouvier stood there a moment starring at his hand, weary of what it would mean if she would to take that hand.. In end a smile filled her face, crossing the room taking his gently as she chuckled " I am counting on you being so young.. means you still remember how to cook" She said softly, before she lowered her head looking down at their hands.. feeling something.. calming.. more relaxed.. even as she was afraid that her heart would break at any moment.. but even so she took it.. ready to deal with the consequences when they came
Hikaru Mekanic curled his fingers around her hand, giving it a small quick squeeze. As he turned toward the door that Aydryan had left through a piece of his heart lightened. "Hey... I was the cook and dishwasher at Sanctuary for many months... no one became ill." He paused glancing to her before starting off down the tunnel, gently tugging on her hand though should she release it, he wouldn't fight to keep it, the looseness in his hand showed her that. "How old am I? You know I am young for a vampire..."
Isabella Bouvier squeezed his hand in return, and followed him with ease, going wherever he led.. She felt safe, and calm.. and she enjoyed the feeling immensely for however long it lasted.. She cocked her head to the side and looked up at him and squished up her face, teasing " No one became ill.. That you were aware of" She chuckled lightly as he he tugged her through the tunnel, even as he loosened his hand, she did not let it go.. only tightened her grip " I am not sure.. usually power comes with age.. and not even just that but a Master vampire... And here you are the master of the city.. " She closed her eyes and thought a moment " the fact that you are young.. I couldn't even guess your age.. your true age"
Hikaru Mekanic let go of her hand long enough to jump down the short steps and started to open the seemingly heavy wooden doors in the floor, then paused, looking up at her, his words utterly honest. "I was turned in nineteen twenty-nine. I was..." he tilted his head to the side considering it as if he didn't exactly remember. "Twenty-four... I believe." He then opened one side of the doors, revealing the massive set of steps that trailed down into the darkness and stepped down, turning a few steps down and looking up at her, offering her his hand again. "Stay to my left side." his voice echoed repeatedly against the faraway walls and floor of the enormous cavern room.
Isabella Bouvier let go of his hand reluctantly as he moved to the wooden doors in the floor. She looked over at him and couldn't conceal the surprise from her face " you have only been a vampire for 81 years" she said softly as she moved down the steps keeping to left as he directed.. as she moved her eyes went wide as she saw the large room " Wow"
Hikaru Mekanic nodded silently leading her down the oddly shaped steps and letting her take in the whole thing. The green "carpet" at the base of the dais when examined closer was shown to actually be live grass the other live plants scattered around the room near the waterfall flourishing somehow even in the darkness. As if in answer to an unasked question he pointed up to the lights affixed and hanging from the ceiling. "Ultraviolet lights, the only turn on well after noon... and shut off a few hours before dusk." He smiled and pointed to the waterfall in the corner as they passed, a few small twittering birds flying freely about the room, nesting in the branches. "Rameaus... the previous Master of the City had a liking for nature.. his Animal Servant, Chelle, she had that constructed as a gift for him. Kitchen is this way..." He led her through a set of very large doors, needing to push only one open to slip through into the dining room.
Isabella Bouvier moved down the steps carefully, while her eyes moved around the large room taking it all in. She was amazed to see the waterfall, and heard the birds chirping.. She kept close to him, though her eyes moved around smiling in amazement " It is so Beautiful.." She murmured as she turned back and looked ahead of her as he opened the large door " She had a very good eye.. its lovely" She followed through the doors, as the thought about the previous master of the City and his animal servant.. What would become of her.. for being Hikaru's human servant..
Hikaru Mekanic nodded again as she passed through the door and let it close behind them. "She is an amazing woman. Both of them were excellent leaders." He steered her gently through the dining room to a side door that opened into a fairly modern day kitchen fit to cook for an army. Only then did he release her hand, moving behind the main counter and pulling his massive amount of hair up into a ponytail then began to wash his hands. "What do you feel like eating?" Something about what he was doing felt right. Aydryan knew he snuck off from time to time to come down and cook for the donors that lived down here, his own way of saying thanks to them. Cooking calmed him in a similar way as his other hobbies did and saddened him as well that he couldn't actually enjoy the fruits of his labors, but he enjoyed doing what he could anyway. Pulling out a towel and wiping his hands on it he turned around looking at her almost expectantly. Whatever she chose he would find a way to put his own spin on it, however.
Isabella Bouvier nodded slowly as she followed him through another large room.. Holy cow she thought, thinking and wondering what other surprises they had here underground.. Everything felt so warm, so comforting.. She couldn't help but smile, but then it dropped slightly around the edges " What became of them" She had to ask, from curiosity.. She would had let it go, for she knew usually what it meant for a Master of the city to be replaced.. However the way, Hikaru spoke.. made her wonder if there had been another way.. She let go of his hand and watched him move behind the counter.. Watching him pull his hair up, she always though he should do that more often.. And not hide his face.. She did not see a reason for him too..she watched him a moment then mentally banged her head.. What the hell did she want.. " Uhmm... Something that's tasty.." She then crossed her arms over her chest and gave him a half smirk " Surprise me"
Hikaru Mekanic's lips curved up into a quick flash of a smile before he turned around and went to the fridge, pulling out a few items, chicken and the like. "If i grab something you do not like.. let me know." he thought about it a moment, she hadn't eaten in almost twenty-four hours, heavy sauce. "Rameaus and Chelle?" He glanced over his shoulder at her. "They left to travel the world, appointing Aydryan and I as Masters of the City. It was a bit... off the wall so I have been told." He frowned slightly while he heated up a skillet and began slicing up the chicken breasts.
Isabella Bouvier nodded slowly as before she moved to the far edge of the counter, and relaxed her hands, before she hopped up and sat on the edge.. Watching him, smirking " I like everything.. couldn't afford to be picky growing up" She then leaned forward and resting her hands on her knees, surprised the moment he had said they were alive " That is well.. wow.. I never heard of.. well.. Things I've seen and heard.. Always ended in violence" She sat there a moment, thinking before she cocked her head to the side " You said you were.. turned.. in 1929.... " her brows knitted together... " Where?"
Hikaru Mekanic's smile faded a bit while he thought about his human life but he wouldn't hold anything back from her unless knowing it harmed her in some way. "Chicago. But I wasn't born there. I was born in Japan." He tossed the chicken into the skillet with a bit of peanut oil and a handful of crushed peanuts. He then started a smaller pot filled with water on the stove and not waiting for it to boil, added the rice along with a few spices. Turning around to let them start to simmer and cook he watched her for a moment. "I... don't remember much of my human life..."
Isabella Bouvier for some reason, his response did not surprise her.. About him being in Chicago.. She realized then, that maybe that is why he had asked her who the files were for. Cold case files from the twenties. She shook her head a moment, that was a long time ago.. And if he wished to tell her, she would let him on his own time. Not from her prying " I was born in Santa Barbara.. California.." She was attempting to change the subject.. feeling that this may not be a good thing to bring up ".. but.. My life is no mystery to you.. " She lowered her head then, as she began to swing her foot slightly
Hikaru Mekanic glanced around the room and nodded, turning back to the stove, stirring the dish before pulling out cream and some more spices, barely adding much of any to a bowl of the cream he was mixing. He wasn't using any measuring devices either for any of it. "I remember enough I guess... My mother and father... bousofu.. uhmm Grandfather. (May correct the term in a moment.)" He took a deep breath using the scent of the food to guide him in the cooking as he slowly added the cream mixture. "He raised me along with my grandmother. My parents were too busy with the business." He glanced back at her and gave her a bittersweet smile before turning back to the food. "My name hasn't changed, I didn't want it to." If he gave her his full name, she could look him up, find what he had done as a human all those years ago. He sighed before speaking it, glancing around to make sure no one else heard, not just with his eyes but his other senses as well. "Ashida Hikaru." The Japanese accent hung thick on his tongue as he spoke his name fully for the first time aloud since before his change.
Isabella Bouvier turned her eyes to what he was making, she hadn't a clue. But the fact that he seemed to know what he was doing, which comforted her in knowing that it was going to be good.. Her stomach grumbled again, She did not realize how hunger she was..But she let the thought slip her mind when Hikaru began to talk.. About his life.. His human life.. And that surprised her, She had never met a vampire so willing speak about their former life, unless they were the newly dead.. And though Hikaru was still young.. For some reason she just never thought shed get that much from him..She looked up at him, so unsure.. of so many things.. but even those were fading.. And then her eyes went wide, as he spoke his Full name.. and even the way he had said it.. She was dumb struck for a moment... She looked at him a moment, just short of her mouth gaping... She quickly regained herself.. She did remember,on all the files on him.. There was never a a last name to go.. with the first.. never.. She had heard about the hassle the bastard pig had given him on the night of his release.. Because of his last name.. Her brows furrowed together,and could not help but ask " Why.. are you sharing this with me.. I mean.. not that I mind.. or.. plan.. to .. expose your anything.. " she paused a moment, stopping mid ramble, clearing her throat she began again "Why are you giving information.. about yourself so freely.."
Hikaru Mekanic paused stirring the chicken and sauce, turning the heat off from under the rice. "Because... " He took a deep breath and sighed softly. "You need to know about me. I want you to know as much as you can." His shoulders curled forward and he refused to look at her, keeping his back to her. "I marked you twice without knowing, without you knowing much about me. Because you went to comfort Aydryan even after what he did, what he said. Most people would shoot the messenger." He didn't mention the fact that she had almost actually done it, that did not seem to matter, he knew that that was her anger getting out of control, dictating her actions. "Thank you for that... He needed it I think."
Isabella Bouvier looked back down at her hands, looking over them, before she began tracing over the faint scars that were made from the surgeries.. But even those were fading.. She stretched her both of her hands a moment, while she listened to him, and she understood now why.. She bit her lip a little to roughly, wincing only a moment.. before she pushed herself off the counter and walked over to him.. She saw how his muscle were tense in his back..She recognized it.. " There is no need to thank me.. Hikaru.. " She paused a moment, before she raised her hand gently and placed it underneath his chin, she had stand on the tips of her toes and lean just so, so she would not hit the stove.. She urged him to look at her " I was angry and hurt.. and afraid.. The last time someone touched me, mind you it wasn't the same as Ayd had.. I socked him in the face.." She sighed a moment " I. do not know why I did to be honest.. But.. I felt the need to i guess.. I did not know if it would help.. I.. Hope it did.." If he turned to look at her, she would lowered her hand then, even if he hadn't.. she still would have lowered it.. She turned her head away then.. not wanting to meet his eyes at the moment.. " I care.. for both of you.. " And she did.. that wasn't a lie.. wasn't all of the truth either.. but truth is truth.. even partial truth
Hikaru Mekanic turned his head and looked at her when she urged him to and stared into her eyes. "It did... Not many seem to.. warm up to him like that." His voice was hushed when he spoke. "I understand your anger... being upset with what I have done." He smiled as he turned back to the food and he felt Aydryan letting out a mental breath, only now aware that he had crept back in silently monitoring them. It didn't bother him however and he understood why Aydryan did that and of course didn't say anything to Izzy about it. He pulled out a plate and made a layer of the rice on it, then picked up the skillet and poured the creamy chicken and sauce over top. "Do you want to eat in the dining room?"
Isabella Bouvier began to fumble with her shirt sleeve again " He did a kindness for me once.. He comforted me, when I needed it.. " She recalled again the pile, where all were involved. All touched and to be comforted " He can be intimidating.. but even so.. doesn't not mean they don't need comfort" She spoke about herself as well, though with all that has happened she had sought comfort in Hikaru Too many times.. perhaps that is why they are where they are.. Maybe she should have just, stayed away.. Did her job and go.. Maybe she should have allowed them to just hate her.. Hate was sometimes easier than.. the other.. " I am.. not angry anymore.. I anger.. died.. And.. it was accidental.. you did not know.." She paused a moment, before she lifted her head and looked at him once more " Even.. though all things.. still.." she hesitated a moment " You SAVED my life Hikaru.. how could I be anger with you for that?" She watched him make her a plate.. and the aroma of the food hit her.. it smelled delicious " Yes.. by the fireplace please.”
Hikaru Mekanic nodded and led her back out to the dining room, pausing at one of the drawers to get silverware and a napkin then made his way over by the fireplace. He waited for her to sit then handed her the plate and utensils, taking a step back from her to give her space, that familiar feeling overcoming him momentarily, not knowing what more he could really say.
Isabella Bouvier walked over to the fireplace and found a nice spot, right beside the roaring flames.. It was warm, and comforting.. And reminded her of back home... She eased her self to the ground slowly, crossing her legs Indian style as she reached up and collected her plate of steaming food, and the silverware.. and rested both on her lap.. She looked up at him then, as she patted the ground beside her " I ain't gonna bite you Hikaru.. you made me dinner.. you going to make me eat alone?" She was trying to be at much as ease as she could be, taking away the fact that.. She had a bond to him, something she did not understand.. What it meant.. But she was not going to make it more difficult.. She had to many issues in her life.. Sometimes it just easier to take the ride, instead of walking the long way home..
Hikaru Mekanic hesitated, his eyes shifting from the food on her lap to her face before he uneasily moved to sit beside her. It really did bug him sometimes that he could cook amazing dishes... and never taste a single one. his eyes moved past her to the flames, watching them dance upon the logs. Theoretically he knew what that food should taste like, the peanuts he had added giving a crunch and different flavor to what should have been a simple chicken cabonera. He sighed softly reaching out and soothingly brushing against his lover's mind, trying to settle the unease he had. Aydryan was hurt and jealous of Izzy and in his own way, Hikaru was jealous of someone that was close to Aydryan though he had been holding it hidden inside himself for several months now, even from his lover, especially from him. He stood and moved over to a large cabinet, opening it and pulling out a wineglass and a bottle of wine that would compliment the dish as best he remembered though he had never cooked this one like this before. Setting them both down in front of her before settling back down beside her. "I can only stay for a few minutes... dawn is coming." He didn't want to rush her eating and wondered if she would be able to find her way back to her room easily enough, if not, he was already making plans of whom to call to lead the way for her.
Isabella Bouvier lowered her eyes down to the dish that he had prepared for her Chicken Cabonera.. Well with a twist.. She smiled, glad she had asked for a surprise.. She quickly grabbed the fork and filled it up with the rice the chicken and the sauce.. She took a bite, and her mouth was in heaven.. Peanuts.. Bacon.. Creamy goodness.. Chicken.. It was one of the best things she ever tasted..She watched him as she took another bite eagerly, but chewed slower savoring each flavor... Each unique.. It reminded her of the movie Ratatouille..She chuckled at the thought.. then frowned.. even as she already began moving to pouring a glass from the wine he gotten for her.. She took a sip slowly, washing down the food.. " It is amazing.. thank you.." She took another sip of her wine before, she placed the glass beside her " You can go.. I'm ok.." She let her eyes fall into a trance with the flames a moment, before to took another bite of her food, Chewing on a peanut.. while she thought about..so many other things.. and really only one.
Hikaru Mekanic didn't look at her, keeping his eyes on the flames a small smile curling his lips at her compliment. "Will you be able to find your room or should I send someone to guide you?" He knew the tunnels were no more than an underground maze until you memorized them. Slowly he blinked feeling the burn in his eyes being this close to the flames caused but not minding, he was in no danger of combusting.
Isabella Bouvier began to lift the fork full of food to her lips before she paused, her eyes moving over to him " I will find my way.. " She said softly before she lowered the fork to her plate.. She looked him over for a long moment " Aydryan had said.. That he was not part of this decision.. But I refuse to make one with out him.. " She lowered her head then and looked back into the fire " I can be very stubborn.. so you can tell him.. he'd be wasting his time trying to convince me otherwise.." Her voice was utterly soft, but still range true.. It is how she felt on the matter.. That is the only thing, she knew how she felt about it..
Hikaru Mekanic stood slowly and looked down at her, even though he was standing, he didn't give the impression fo towering over her. "That is something you both have in common. Stubbornness." He smiled a bit weak still but it was warm. "I just wish..." He closed his eyes, his face contorting. "... that we had had the choice from the beginning. But I would not make any further... choices... without him." They were in agreement on that part, Aydryan could not step away from this and have no say in what happened. It affected him as well. He nodded to her saying that she could find her way. "If you get lost... do not feel bad about calling Jenna. She can guide you and every one of us has gotten lost down here before." He turned away but she would see his smile grow slightly. "Even myself. Good morning Isabella."
Isabella Bouvier shifted in her in her spot, she lifted the plate and placed at her side before she stretched her legs out before her. She thought on whether if this had happened differently, would she had agreed to it. Would she want to be tied to eternity to not just Hikaru but Aydryan as well.. She did not know. She got the feeling that Aydryan did not like her so much, which she usually had that effect on many.. Which is why she could not understand how this had happened to begin with... She lifted her gaze to him and nodded slowly agreeing with everything thing he said, though not trusting herself to speak in response to any of it just yet.. " Rest well Hikaru.." She had the way she came.. written in her head.. like a map.. she would find it.. She gave him a nod before she turned back to look at the fire a moment more.
Hikaru Mekanic turned and moved around the dining table, pushing open the door enough to slip out then silently made his way back to his and Aydryan's room for the day.
Isabella Bouvier sat against the leather couch, with her legs curled up to her chest, She had unpacked everything last night, and hidden her weapons through out the room.. Even with that she still felt unease.. She tensed when she heard a knock at the door, She sat there a moment before she pushed herself up off the couch and walked over to the door, her hand easing to the small of her back a moment as she called through the door " Whose there?"
Hikaru Mekanic spoke softly but it traveled through the door "It's Hikaru Isabella... Aydryan and I.. have something we need to discuss with you."
Isabella Bouvier eased her hand from her back, while the other unlocked the door then eased it open slightly " ok." She mumbled as she opened the door wider, looking past him seeing if there was anyone else around.. Her brows knitted together " Where is Aydryan?"
Hikaru Mekanic smiled weakly "He is in the main lounge waiting on us." He moved to the side both to let her see that he was alone, and also to let her pass through the door.
Isabella Bouvier lip thinned slightly. Walking through the cats.. Even with the master of the city. She straightened slightly and nodded.. Since when did she become a timid mouse that hides in its hole.. oh yeah.. her heart picked up its pace, from anxiety. She felt off.. and she did not know how to change it.. She walked past him, shutting the door tightly.. before she paused with her head down cast " Lead the way"
Hikaru Mekanic hesitated a moment watching her then nodding. By the end of the night he fully expected her to hate him and wouldn't blame her one bit for it. "You don't have to be afraid down here, other than getting lost." He feigned a small smile and began leading her through the tunnels, nodding to Gaven as they passed his post and continuing on toward the lounge.
Isabella Bouvier lifted her head just enough to look at his face, but not his eyes " No one is ever safe Hikaru. I learned from my mistake in ever thinking other wise" She nodded and followed him through the tunnels in silence, her hand kept close to her body..
Hikaru Mekanic hit the hidden switched and toggles that opened doors quickly though he made sure she saw where each was along the way. Pulling back the dark green curtains to reveal the lounge and all it's comforts, his eyes already drawn to Aydryan and the weak smile fading. Part of his wanted to tell Izzy to run, to leave and never come back but he knew that this wasn't something they could run from, any of them.
Isabella Bouvier watched Hikaru move, each passage that open. Each switch.. She put it all to memory, that was something that never change no matter what state of mind she was in. Though she did not understand one thing. Why were the masters wanting to speak with her. Perhaps it was her experience with the doctor, maybe that was it.. Her eyes widened slightly as he parted a curtain revealing a warm cozy room with a fire and everything.. But even as it was, it did not make her fell one ounce better.. She saw Aydryan sprawled across the couch, she couldn't help but remember the pile she had been in at Fang Bangers.. a pile she was in for comfort.. for the need to be touched.. That was something that had changed.. She gave him a slight nod before she walked further into the room.. She stopped when she neared the sitting area.. Waiting to hear whatever they had to stay.
Aydryan Underwood had heard them moving closer, knowing the sounds of the catacombs very well. When they both appeared through the curtains, his eyes moved to Hikaru and he smiled slowly. Then he moved his attention to Isabella. The smile remained as he flowed to his feet and gestured with one hand to the longer couch, "Please, Isabella....sit...relax." He moved to stand beside the fireplace, waiting.
Hikaru Mekanic let the curtain fall behind Isabella and himself, moving to the chair and taking a seat uneasily. <<Go easy ami intime... I do not think she has slept yet, if much at all.>> His worry evident on his features though he tried to hide them as best he could.
Isabella Bouvier shifted in her stance, so that her back was no longer to the entrance they had came in.. Even with the curtain, so many she did not know if there were more entrances to this room, that had bothered her.. Her fingers grabbed hold of her sleeve, fumbling with it slightly, while her other hand remained at her side.. she stood there a moment, not sure whether to take a seat or stand.. They had not threatened her, only offered a safe haven.. so why did she feel so uneasy.. to many reasons.. she nodded slowly as she moved slowly and took a seat at the edge of the couch, with her back straight.. " Thank you.. " She said softly.. Her eyes moved over to where the curtain had fallen a moment before looking at Hikaru briefly.. then allowed her eyes to look before her, watching the flame dance.
Aydryan Underwood: As Aydryan watched them both settle, both so ill at ease, his gaze slowly lowered to the floor. When he began to speak, as always, it was quietly and he moved to sit upon the large low divan. His head rotated from side to side so that both knew he was addressing them equally. "What I am about to discuss with both of you is very serious ....but....it is not life threatening." He drew another slow breath as he settled, considering his words, "Hikaru is young and unfortunately ..... his maker .... was not the sort to share important information with him." He ran his hands first up his thighs, then down again. "Hikaru cares for you Isabella and because of that and the fact that you were in danger, injured.....his subconsciously took actions to insure your survival." He paused to let that information sink in before he continued.
Hikaru Mekanic closed his eyes as Aydryan spoke the feeling of wanting to crawl into a corner and curl up was still with him and grew slightly at the reminder. His eyes eventually opened and he looked to Isabella praying for her to understand and preparing himself if she didn't.
Isabella Bouvier's eyes moved away from the fire as Aydryan moved and took a seat before her. Something as so innocent as it, seemed to make her uncomfortably.. Why she did not know, but the feeling was there. She lifted her gaze just enough so that it came to the center of his nose, and she focused on that. Old habits come back apparently when life slaps you in the face.. Her body was already rigid, her muscles already tense so even as she heard Aydryan speak, her features never changed as she listened.. She did not understand what he was talking about. Hikaru being young, and his maker keeping him ignorant.. to what.. She felt more unease fill her, she did not like not knowing.. not understanding..When I was in danger.. injured.. took actions.. She looked up then, looking into Aydryan's one eye.. " I do not understand... What actions were taken.. "
Aydryan Underwood watched her as she moved through her own thoughts, noting how she yet avoided his gaze. He reached out mentally to wrap supporting calm to Hikaru as he continued, "Master Vampires have the ability to create Human Servants. The word Servant, however, is VERY misleading. The human is in no way weak or submissive to the Master if they do not choose to be. The bond between the Master and the Human is very powerful, very strong and once completed only death can sever it." He paused only long enough to take a slow breath of air, "It takes four marks, four steps to create a true Human Servant......and Hikaru has taken two of them...with you."
Hikaru Mekanic watched Isabella while he pulled that comforting support that Aydryan offered around himself though he did not relax much into it. He couldn't. His voice was quiet, barely above a whisper, "I'm sorry Isabella."
Isabella Bouvier shifted in her seat as Aydryan began speaking again. Her heart began to pick up its pace almost unnoticed at the mention of Human Servants. She had ran into a few a time or two back home, and on another occasion in Washington. She knew what they were, they did the vampires bidding during the day.. While their master slept.. She knew they weren't so easy to take down either, especially defending their master, when she had a warrant of execution to deliver.. Though Aydryan's words contradicted some of her own previous experiences but even so she continued to listen.. She did not understand how this had anything to do with Hikaru and her.. And when she Heard Aydryan pause, her stomach did a flip, and her chest tightened.. For whatever reason the memory of violet fire came into her head.. and Hikaru's voice as she laid strapped down.. Her eyes darted to Hikaru, looking into the eyes that matched the flames. And she took in a sharp breath.. No.. And as soon as her head made the connection, Aydryan confirmed it.. Her heart slammed into her chest, causing her to jerk up and stand.. As she shook her head violently " No.. no. no.. " And that's when her anger came, she was almost relieved to have it back.. it was her comfort, her companion.. she took hold of it as it were her lover and held tightly to it before her eyes moved back to Aydryan, then back to Hikaru.. jumping between the two " Undo it"
Aydryan Underwood: As soon as her anger flared, his major ability awakened. He did not have to look at her for it work, it simply was. All her anger would turn to him, making him the focus of it and no one else. "It cannot be undone. Not unless Hikaru dies or he attempts to make another Human Servant. You do not have to obey him. Your will is still your own. You are stronger now via his strength. It is you that benefits here, not Hikaru." He lifted a leg and clasped his fingers together around his knee. "Hikaru is.....no...regrets greatly what has happened. He only wished to help you, protect you."
Hikaru Mekanic saw her anger rise on her face, glancing to Aydryan when his ability clicked into place and he locked his own anger up tight quickly, fighting not to cringe at Izzy's demand. "I am sorry Isabella, I truly am. If I could... I would. I did not want this for you." He shifted slightly in his seat and forced himself to keep his eyes on Izzy watching her anger play across her face.
Isabella Bouvier's finally rested on Aydryan, her anger taking to its peak. Giving her back some of what was so violently taken from her. Her hands clenched into fist, the ache was still there, should still be there.. but she did not feel it, not as her anger was there.. She had been too many times, this week had she had something done against her will.. " Where was my will when this occurred Aydryan.. You say that I still have my will BUT where was it when the marks were given" Her voice was low, as it usually did when her anger rose.
Isabella Bouvier: Turning quickly, like an artist forming creating something else entirely.. " Find someone else.. Who wants it.. find someone else.. who he WONT REGRET THEN.. because you say I only benefit.. I do not see anything.. for there are other ways to gain strength.. " She took a step forward then, as her eyes zeroed on Aydryan " Wants protect a vampire executioner.. is that what want you want... Someone who kills your kind.. and does not loose sleep over it.." She heard Hikaru's apology, she had almost forgotten that he had been in the room, she turned her eyes to look at him.. her heart tightened again, She loved him, she truly did.. but even as that love tried to surface, she forced it back down.. it was not what she wanted right now.. not what she needed.. And something struck her head, he would have to die.. for it to break.. death.. always things end with death.. " Is that why.. that you wanted me HERE.. for my Safety.. or for yours." She spat out..
Aydryan's face became a very calm unreadable mask. When he spoke, his voice had lowered in volume and his one eyed gaze never left Izzy's face. "Where was your will? Your will was subjugated by pain and fear the first time.....after you were raped. Hikaru was attempting to aid you, to help you. The second time you were probably drugged in some way, held captive by the ..... Doctor. Again, Hikaru was attempting to save you, help you. You, my dear Isabella, were in jeopardy." The cool edge couldn't be kept from his voice because this woman wasn't seeing passed the victims trauma within her. "Hikaru regrets that he did these things without being aware of them, without being able to tell you first. Not that he regrets you." There were other words that he wanted to say, but he bit them back, kept his own bile and acid from tainting this moment....for Hikaru's sake. "May I remind you, Isabella....we also kill. While I cannot speak for others...I know that I do not lose sleep either."
Hikaru Mekanic's face went blank, not the calm casual mask he usually wore. He was thankful to Aydryan for biting his tongue, but could not help but speak up, at least in part. "I do not regret YOU... I regret it being you because YOU do not want it. Would not have wanted it."
Isabella Bouvier jerked her head back to Aydryan, and as his words only added to her anger. Bringing up her weaknesses, her moments that she had fought and lost. " How long has it been known then.. I thought I was turning into a shifter.. That was why I was leaving.." Her head did another spin, everyone had thought as much, that was why she was taken.. because.. The doctor wanted to see.. wanted to know.. " I was taken because of that Factor.. and cast out.. because I was not.. What Everyone thought I was to be" The fury that began to climb, something that was usually so hot, began to grow cold.. " I do
Isabella Bouvier: not need to be reminded of what you are.. either of you.. I have seen first hand what you are both capable of.. " She turned then to Hikaru, and even as his word hit her, it shattered a piece inside her, the cage she had around what she so desperately tried to bury and let fade.. Moisture began filling her eyes around the edges, causing them to sting from the hurt and pain " You do not KNOW.. What I want.. You NEVER BOTHERED to ask.. Do not for one second try to tell me otherwise.. " She turned her back to them, both.. not wanting to see..not wanting them to see.. As she tried to grab hold of her anger, the cold before she lost and broke completely.." You do not REGRET the Choice.. and yet.. you do.. someone who does not benefit.." She thought back that moment trying to remember all she knew about human servants.. and what it meant.. trying so very hard to think over the chaos that was inside her mind and heart..
Aydryan Underwood stood up slowly, every flex and extension of muscle a work of elegance, a coiled snake. He moved up behind Isabella, reached out, wrapped long fingers around her bicep and spun her around to face him. Now his eye blazed with power, though his voice still did not rise, "Stop these hysterics....now. The point you seem to be missing is that Hikaru....DID NOT KNOW.....I repeat....KNOW...what he was doing. His actions came from the heart, the subconscious." He gave her arm a quick shake that held incredibly restrained strength. His desire to make her see, to calm herself was enough that his ability sucked the anger right out of her. "See passed your shock, Isabella.....see the truth of this."
Hikaru Mekanic began to hang his head at Izzy's words, dropping his gaze from her until Aydryan stood and grabbed her, spinning her around. He stood abruptly and almost stopped him, but understood, knowing he did not mean to harm her, just for her to see. His shoulders slumped and he stepped away, standing beside the couch, his back to them. He didn't speak, not trusting his voice or his words right now.
Isabella Bouvier felt fingers wrap around her upper arm, as she spun. Her free arm automatically went to her back for her gun.. Even as she stared up into his eyes that looked like a sea aflame.. She clicked off the safety and began to raise it as her eyes dropped to where his hand was.. Knowing that he could shatter the bone without effort.. " Remove.. YOUR .. HAND.. NOW" Her words felt like blades against her tongue, as her heart pounded as the anger heightened.. But just as it was about to devour her, it began to fade.. rapidly.. till it was all gone with out a trace..leaving only the other emotion to swell up and takes its place.. She blinked a few times, before she lifted her glossy eyes.. " What. now."
Aydryan Underwood heard the click of gun safety, one brow rising in reaction. Some small part of him almost wished that she would shoot him, then all this civility could come to an end. But then his gaze lifted to Hikaru and his hand fell away from Isabella. "A good question. You can go your separate ways and wait for the day that Hikaru chooses another. The two of you discuss the matter, come to an understanding and mutually consummate the bond and finish it." He turned away then and walked to the fire, staring into the flames, "Either way...my part in this is over. I have explained what has happened. I will explain the next two marks if that is the desire of you both." There was a heaviness in his voice, "I am ultimately, not a part of this bond."
Hikaru Mekanic heard the safety click off on her gun and glanced back in time to see the gun clearing it's holster, his whole body jerking in response then she calmed. His gaze lifted to Aydryan as he walked away to the fireplace. His heart squeezing painfully at the pain he knew was there just under the surface. He wanted to know how to do the next two marks, so that he WOULDN'T do it again. Wouldn't hurt either of them again. But that didn't need to be voiced if Izzy didn't want to know it or hear it. "Now it is your choice Isabella."
Isabella Bouvier's arm grew heavy, the coldness of the metal from the but of the gun began to warm against her skin. She looked down to her side, starring at the gun a moment.. before she clicked back on the safety and returned it back to it holster at the low of her back.. It hurt her heart at the thought of Hikaru choosing another, but at the same time she did not like having had her will taken either.. Confusing the hell out of her.. It all happened accidentally.. She saw that now.. But in this moment she was not sure about what actions to take.. Her gaze followed Aydryan as he moved away to the fire place. She let her eyes look over his back, there was something in his voice.. it made her want to comfort him.. But she did not understand why.. one minute she had her gun in her hand prepared to shoot, the next she wanted to hug him.. She shook her head.. before she moved across the room tracing his footsteps before she came to stand beside him.. And without a thought as to why she raised her hand and rested it gently on his shoulder " I do not know what is to happen.. I do not know the dynamics of all of this.. or how to respond.. But I do know that whatever Decision is to be made.. You are to be apart of it.. because whatever this is.. it does include you too" she spoke very softly, unsure of how he would react.. unsure about so many things... She turned to Hikaru, with now soft eyes, with her anger gone.. all that was left was how she felt.. and that was seen in her eyes " Not just mine.. it includes all of us."
Aydryan Underwood: The shoulder beneath her hand tightened and remained so as Isabella spoke. He held his own thoughts concerning his part of this relationship between Hikaru and Isabella. Whether or not he was a part of it fell mostly on him, he understood this already. Could he share Hikaru? He wasn't sure. Then he asked himself whether or not Hikaru would share him, should he take a Human Servant himself. Such convoluted things, the machinations of vampires. Slowly the tension bled from his body and he lifted his hand to touch hers, "However I may be involved, Isabella....at this moment....it is only between you and Hikaru." He took her hand within his and lifted it to his lips to brush the back of her fingers. Then he let her go and walked to Hikaru. His hand lifted to cup his beloved's cheek, "I am ever with you, ami intime. You have but to whisper and I will hear." He settled a tender kiss to the corner of Hikaru's mouth. Then, silently, he walked away and slipped behind heavy drapes.
Hikaru Mekanic knew that all of this was tearing them both apart inside, though not necessarily apart from each other. It thawed a small part of him when Izzy moved to comfort Aydryan, and another small part when he did not exactly push her away. He met his eye as he cupped his cheek, his own focusing on his lover's as if he still had both, as he always did. When Aydryan turned his back and walked away, disappearing behind the curtain his whispered those three cherished words both in mind and barely below a whisper and allowed a single tear to fall, the pain of hurting his ami intime, his beloved, overwhelming him for a moment before he pushed it down again. His hand rose up, wiping that tear away quickly. He didn't turn around to face Isabella as he spoke for her to hear now, his voice roughened with emotion, hesitant with the fear of what was to come, what he did not know. "I understand your anger Isabella... and if you hate me right now.. I understand that too." He expected no less. He felt like he had been thrown back in time, kicked too many times, but it was his own boot that was swinging, aimed straight for his rear.
Isabella Bouvier felt the tension her touch had given him, her eyes moved slowly away from Hikaru, back to Aydryan as he touched her hand. She could not help but to suppress the frown on her lips. How could that be so, he needed to have a say. It was not right.. She did not know why but she felt it and knew with certainty.. That he was right about so many things tonight.. but wrong on one.. She closed her eyes a moment, for the first time in a long time allowed the briefest of touch to calm her.. even as he lifted her hand to his lips, she did not pull back.. and just in the moment he released her, she opened her mouth to argue.. to tell him to stay.. but then snapped it close, as he moved to his lover.. She turned her back then giving them their moment.. She felt a coldness against her cheek, causing her brows to knit together not.. understanding.. she raised her hand to her the wetness, from a tear she did not know had fallen.. She wiped it away as her eyes moved back to the flames of the fire.. Hearing the swish of the curtain.. knowing that Aydryan had left.. ..She heard Hikaru's words, and it caused a strain on her heart, that has happened all to often as of late.. " I've been angry a very long time Hikaru.. longer than I care to admit.. but for right now it is gone.." She took in a sharp breath.. hurt that he could think of such a thing.. and even though it hurt she realized.. there was a Truth she needed to say.. " I could never hate you Hikaru.. no matter how angry I become.. I could never bring myself to hate you.. " She took another shaky breath.
Hikaru Mekanic settled himself, closing himself off from Aydryan partially with the promise that he would fill him in later, for now he needed his thoughts to be his own. It was hard for him to be separated, even something as simple as this but he did it. Slowly he turned, giving Isabella his side, violet eyes peering through the thick fall of hair that shielded his face. "I am glad... relieved that you do not hate me." Something seemed to relax in him slightly, and something else tensed at the same time. He knew what she was getting at, afraid to hear it even though he knew it. "I do not know where to go from here. I don't want to hurt anyone else by not knowing. But..." He hesitated, wondering for a moment how much she actually knew about him, his past. He knew it was an abrupt change in subject, but he had to know. "Those files you were given.. on murders in the 20's... Who...?" He didn't know how to ask it, the confusion on his face before he shook his head, turning to her fully and quoted something he had read once. "The past is not something we can change, whether it be our own or other's. All we can change is our future and how we live it." He looked to the flames for a moment, praying for the right words that would not hurt, but knew there was nothing he could do or say that would not.
Isabella Bouvier raised her hand slowly, against the flame. So the light traced over each one of her fingertips. She felt the warmth and the heat, comforted by the fire. knowing that it could easily burn you if you got to close. That was how she felt, She felt like she was the fire.. She nodded slowly at his words, while another set of words played at the tip of her tongue.. Wanting to be said, but at the same time not wanting to be heard.. " I do not wish to hurt anyone either.. " She said softly as her eyes remained staring at her hand, even as the heat began to fluster her skin... She tilted her head to the side as she considered her words...Remembering exactly what he was talking about.. She had burned them.. all thrown them into a fire like the one before her.. and watched them turn to ash " The files were destroyed Hikaru.. they were about Nikki.. or I assumed as much.. given with the knowledge I had.. but they are gone.. just as her maker is" she lowered her hand then, allowing it to fall to her side.. Feeling a calm, that felt like after a storm.. And for the first time in weeks saw things with a clarity " Forget to remember all that is forgotten.. " She sighed then and turned to look at him..and stood there staring into his violet eyes
Hikaru Mekanic met those eyes a slight frown etching across his features though there was a slight relief there and a new tension. He would have to tell her... EVERYTHING... about his past. Human and vampire. He opened his mouth to start then faltered, again changing the subject. "Are you hungry?"
Isabella Bouvier brows furrowed together a moment confused by the sudden change, and then her stomach growled.. forgotten to eat that day " Yes.. actually" she said softly
Hikaru Mekanic smiled a very quick curve of his lips as his hand rose slowly, palm up, his fingers loose. "Then we should go to the kitchen. If... you would allow this very young and inexperienced vampire to cook for you?" his head tilted, a slight twinkle of mischievousness held within, but behind that was still the pain, the awkwardness that was between them.
Isabella Bouvier stood there a moment starring at his hand, weary of what it would mean if she would to take that hand.. In end a smile filled her face, crossing the room taking his gently as she chuckled " I am counting on you being so young.. means you still remember how to cook" She said softly, before she lowered her head looking down at their hands.. feeling something.. calming.. more relaxed.. even as she was afraid that her heart would break at any moment.. but even so she took it.. ready to deal with the consequences when they came
Hikaru Mekanic curled his fingers around her hand, giving it a small quick squeeze. As he turned toward the door that Aydryan had left through a piece of his heart lightened. "Hey... I was the cook and dishwasher at Sanctuary for many months... no one became ill." He paused glancing to her before starting off down the tunnel, gently tugging on her hand though should she release it, he wouldn't fight to keep it, the looseness in his hand showed her that. "How old am I? You know I am young for a vampire..."
Isabella Bouvier squeezed his hand in return, and followed him with ease, going wherever he led.. She felt safe, and calm.. and she enjoyed the feeling immensely for however long it lasted.. She cocked her head to the side and looked up at him and squished up her face, teasing " No one became ill.. That you were aware of" She chuckled lightly as he he tugged her through the tunnel, even as he loosened his hand, she did not let it go.. only tightened her grip " I am not sure.. usually power comes with age.. and not even just that but a Master vampire... And here you are the master of the city.. " She closed her eyes and thought a moment " the fact that you are young.. I couldn't even guess your age.. your true age"
Hikaru Mekanic let go of her hand long enough to jump down the short steps and started to open the seemingly heavy wooden doors in the floor, then paused, looking up at her, his words utterly honest. "I was turned in nineteen twenty-nine. I was..." he tilted his head to the side considering it as if he didn't exactly remember. "Twenty-four... I believe." He then opened one side of the doors, revealing the massive set of steps that trailed down into the darkness and stepped down, turning a few steps down and looking up at her, offering her his hand again. "Stay to my left side." his voice echoed repeatedly against the faraway walls and floor of the enormous cavern room.
Isabella Bouvier let go of his hand reluctantly as he moved to the wooden doors in the floor. She looked over at him and couldn't conceal the surprise from her face " you have only been a vampire for 81 years" she said softly as she moved down the steps keeping to left as he directed.. as she moved her eyes went wide as she saw the large room " Wow"
Hikaru Mekanic nodded silently leading her down the oddly shaped steps and letting her take in the whole thing. The green "carpet" at the base of the dais when examined closer was shown to actually be live grass the other live plants scattered around the room near the waterfall flourishing somehow even in the darkness. As if in answer to an unasked question he pointed up to the lights affixed and hanging from the ceiling. "Ultraviolet lights, the only turn on well after noon... and shut off a few hours before dusk." He smiled and pointed to the waterfall in the corner as they passed, a few small twittering birds flying freely about the room, nesting in the branches. "Rameaus... the previous Master of the City had a liking for nature.. his Animal Servant, Chelle, she had that constructed as a gift for him. Kitchen is this way..." He led her through a set of very large doors, needing to push only one open to slip through into the dining room.
Isabella Bouvier moved down the steps carefully, while her eyes moved around the large room taking it all in. She was amazed to see the waterfall, and heard the birds chirping.. She kept close to him, though her eyes moved around smiling in amazement " It is so Beautiful.." She murmured as she turned back and looked ahead of her as he opened the large door " She had a very good eye.. its lovely" She followed through the doors, as the thought about the previous master of the City and his animal servant.. What would become of her.. for being Hikaru's human servant..
Hikaru Mekanic nodded again as she passed through the door and let it close behind them. "She is an amazing woman. Both of them were excellent leaders." He steered her gently through the dining room to a side door that opened into a fairly modern day kitchen fit to cook for an army. Only then did he release her hand, moving behind the main counter and pulling his massive amount of hair up into a ponytail then began to wash his hands. "What do you feel like eating?" Something about what he was doing felt right. Aydryan knew he snuck off from time to time to come down and cook for the donors that lived down here, his own way of saying thanks to them. Cooking calmed him in a similar way as his other hobbies did and saddened him as well that he couldn't actually enjoy the fruits of his labors, but he enjoyed doing what he could anyway. Pulling out a towel and wiping his hands on it he turned around looking at her almost expectantly. Whatever she chose he would find a way to put his own spin on it, however.
Isabella Bouvier nodded slowly as she followed him through another large room.. Holy cow she thought, thinking and wondering what other surprises they had here underground.. Everything felt so warm, so comforting.. She couldn't help but smile, but then it dropped slightly around the edges " What became of them" She had to ask, from curiosity.. She would had let it go, for she knew usually what it meant for a Master of the city to be replaced.. However the way, Hikaru spoke.. made her wonder if there had been another way.. She let go of his hand and watched him move behind the counter.. Watching him pull his hair up, she always though he should do that more often.. And not hide his face.. She did not see a reason for him too..she watched him a moment then mentally banged her head.. What the hell did she want.. " Uhmm... Something that's tasty.." She then crossed her arms over her chest and gave him a half smirk " Surprise me"
Hikaru Mekanic's lips curved up into a quick flash of a smile before he turned around and went to the fridge, pulling out a few items, chicken and the like. "If i grab something you do not like.. let me know." he thought about it a moment, she hadn't eaten in almost twenty-four hours, heavy sauce. "Rameaus and Chelle?" He glanced over his shoulder at her. "They left to travel the world, appointing Aydryan and I as Masters of the City. It was a bit... off the wall so I have been told." He frowned slightly while he heated up a skillet and began slicing up the chicken breasts.
Isabella Bouvier nodded slowly as before she moved to the far edge of the counter, and relaxed her hands, before she hopped up and sat on the edge.. Watching him, smirking " I like everything.. couldn't afford to be picky growing up" She then leaned forward and resting her hands on her knees, surprised the moment he had said they were alive " That is well.. wow.. I never heard of.. well.. Things I've seen and heard.. Always ended in violence" She sat there a moment, thinking before she cocked her head to the side " You said you were.. turned.. in 1929.... " her brows knitted together... " Where?"
Hikaru Mekanic's smile faded a bit while he thought about his human life but he wouldn't hold anything back from her unless knowing it harmed her in some way. "Chicago. But I wasn't born there. I was born in Japan." He tossed the chicken into the skillet with a bit of peanut oil and a handful of crushed peanuts. He then started a smaller pot filled with water on the stove and not waiting for it to boil, added the rice along with a few spices. Turning around to let them start to simmer and cook he watched her for a moment. "I... don't remember much of my human life..."
Isabella Bouvier for some reason, his response did not surprise her.. About him being in Chicago.. She realized then, that maybe that is why he had asked her who the files were for. Cold case files from the twenties. She shook her head a moment, that was a long time ago.. And if he wished to tell her, she would let him on his own time. Not from her prying " I was born in Santa Barbara.. California.." She was attempting to change the subject.. feeling that this may not be a good thing to bring up ".. but.. My life is no mystery to you.. " She lowered her head then, as she began to swing her foot slightly
Hikaru Mekanic glanced around the room and nodded, turning back to the stove, stirring the dish before pulling out cream and some more spices, barely adding much of any to a bowl of the cream he was mixing. He wasn't using any measuring devices either for any of it. "I remember enough I guess... My mother and father... bousofu.. uhmm Grandfather. (May correct the term in a moment.)" He took a deep breath using the scent of the food to guide him in the cooking as he slowly added the cream mixture. "He raised me along with my grandmother. My parents were too busy with the business." He glanced back at her and gave her a bittersweet smile before turning back to the food. "My name hasn't changed, I didn't want it to." If he gave her his full name, she could look him up, find what he had done as a human all those years ago. He sighed before speaking it, glancing around to make sure no one else heard, not just with his eyes but his other senses as well. "Ashida Hikaru." The Japanese accent hung thick on his tongue as he spoke his name fully for the first time aloud since before his change.
Isabella Bouvier turned her eyes to what he was making, she hadn't a clue. But the fact that he seemed to know what he was doing, which comforted her in knowing that it was going to be good.. Her stomach grumbled again, She did not realize how hunger she was..But she let the thought slip her mind when Hikaru began to talk.. About his life.. His human life.. And that surprised her, She had never met a vampire so willing speak about their former life, unless they were the newly dead.. And though Hikaru was still young.. For some reason she just never thought shed get that much from him..She looked up at him, so unsure.. of so many things.. but even those were fading.. And then her eyes went wide, as he spoke his Full name.. and even the way he had said it.. She was dumb struck for a moment... She looked at him a moment, just short of her mouth gaping... She quickly regained herself.. She did remember,on all the files on him.. There was never a a last name to go.. with the first.. never.. She had heard about the hassle the bastard pig had given him on the night of his release.. Because of his last name.. Her brows furrowed together,and could not help but ask " Why.. are you sharing this with me.. I mean.. not that I mind.. or.. plan.. to .. expose your anything.. " she paused a moment, stopping mid ramble, clearing her throat she began again "Why are you giving information.. about yourself so freely.."
Hikaru Mekanic paused stirring the chicken and sauce, turning the heat off from under the rice. "Because... " He took a deep breath and sighed softly. "You need to know about me. I want you to know as much as you can." His shoulders curled forward and he refused to look at her, keeping his back to her. "I marked you twice without knowing, without you knowing much about me. Because you went to comfort Aydryan even after what he did, what he said. Most people would shoot the messenger." He didn't mention the fact that she had almost actually done it, that did not seem to matter, he knew that that was her anger getting out of control, dictating her actions. "Thank you for that... He needed it I think."
Isabella Bouvier looked back down at her hands, looking over them, before she began tracing over the faint scars that were made from the surgeries.. But even those were fading.. She stretched her both of her hands a moment, while she listened to him, and she understood now why.. She bit her lip a little to roughly, wincing only a moment.. before she pushed herself off the counter and walked over to him.. She saw how his muscle were tense in his back..She recognized it.. " There is no need to thank me.. Hikaru.. " She paused a moment, before she raised her hand gently and placed it underneath his chin, she had stand on the tips of her toes and lean just so, so she would not hit the stove.. She urged him to look at her " I was angry and hurt.. and afraid.. The last time someone touched me, mind you it wasn't the same as Ayd had.. I socked him in the face.." She sighed a moment " I. do not know why I did to be honest.. But.. I felt the need to i guess.. I did not know if it would help.. I.. Hope it did.." If he turned to look at her, she would lowered her hand then, even if he hadn't.. she still would have lowered it.. She turned her head away then.. not wanting to meet his eyes at the moment.. " I care.. for both of you.. " And she did.. that wasn't a lie.. wasn't all of the truth either.. but truth is truth.. even partial truth
Hikaru Mekanic turned his head and looked at her when she urged him to and stared into her eyes. "It did... Not many seem to.. warm up to him like that." His voice was hushed when he spoke. "I understand your anger... being upset with what I have done." He smiled as he turned back to the food and he felt Aydryan letting out a mental breath, only now aware that he had crept back in silently monitoring them. It didn't bother him however and he understood why Aydryan did that and of course didn't say anything to Izzy about it. He pulled out a plate and made a layer of the rice on it, then picked up the skillet and poured the creamy chicken and sauce over top. "Do you want to eat in the dining room?"
Isabella Bouvier began to fumble with her shirt sleeve again " He did a kindness for me once.. He comforted me, when I needed it.. " She recalled again the pile, where all were involved. All touched and to be comforted " He can be intimidating.. but even so.. doesn't not mean they don't need comfort" She spoke about herself as well, though with all that has happened she had sought comfort in Hikaru Too many times.. perhaps that is why they are where they are.. Maybe she should have just, stayed away.. Did her job and go.. Maybe she should have allowed them to just hate her.. Hate was sometimes easier than.. the other.. " I am.. not angry anymore.. I anger.. died.. And.. it was accidental.. you did not know.." She paused a moment, before she lifted her head and looked at him once more " Even.. though all things.. still.." she hesitated a moment " You SAVED my life Hikaru.. how could I be anger with you for that?" She watched him make her a plate.. and the aroma of the food hit her.. it smelled delicious " Yes.. by the fireplace please.”
Hikaru Mekanic nodded and led her back out to the dining room, pausing at one of the drawers to get silverware and a napkin then made his way over by the fireplace. He waited for her to sit then handed her the plate and utensils, taking a step back from her to give her space, that familiar feeling overcoming him momentarily, not knowing what more he could really say.
Isabella Bouvier walked over to the fireplace and found a nice spot, right beside the roaring flames.. It was warm, and comforting.. And reminded her of back home... She eased her self to the ground slowly, crossing her legs Indian style as she reached up and collected her plate of steaming food, and the silverware.. and rested both on her lap.. She looked up at him then, as she patted the ground beside her " I ain't gonna bite you Hikaru.. you made me dinner.. you going to make me eat alone?" She was trying to be at much as ease as she could be, taking away the fact that.. She had a bond to him, something she did not understand.. What it meant.. But she was not going to make it more difficult.. She had to many issues in her life.. Sometimes it just easier to take the ride, instead of walking the long way home..
Hikaru Mekanic hesitated, his eyes shifting from the food on her lap to her face before he uneasily moved to sit beside her. It really did bug him sometimes that he could cook amazing dishes... and never taste a single one. his eyes moved past her to the flames, watching them dance upon the logs. Theoretically he knew what that food should taste like, the peanuts he had added giving a crunch and different flavor to what should have been a simple chicken cabonera. He sighed softly reaching out and soothingly brushing against his lover's mind, trying to settle the unease he had. Aydryan was hurt and jealous of Izzy and in his own way, Hikaru was jealous of someone that was close to Aydryan though he had been holding it hidden inside himself for several months now, even from his lover, especially from him. He stood and moved over to a large cabinet, opening it and pulling out a wineglass and a bottle of wine that would compliment the dish as best he remembered though he had never cooked this one like this before. Setting them both down in front of her before settling back down beside her. "I can only stay for a few minutes... dawn is coming." He didn't want to rush her eating and wondered if she would be able to find her way back to her room easily enough, if not, he was already making plans of whom to call to lead the way for her.
Isabella Bouvier lowered her eyes down to the dish that he had prepared for her Chicken Cabonera.. Well with a twist.. She smiled, glad she had asked for a surprise.. She quickly grabbed the fork and filled it up with the rice the chicken and the sauce.. She took a bite, and her mouth was in heaven.. Peanuts.. Bacon.. Creamy goodness.. Chicken.. It was one of the best things she ever tasted..She watched him as she took another bite eagerly, but chewed slower savoring each flavor... Each unique.. It reminded her of the movie Ratatouille..She chuckled at the thought.. then frowned.. even as she already began moving to pouring a glass from the wine he gotten for her.. She took a sip slowly, washing down the food.. " It is amazing.. thank you.." She took another sip of her wine before, she placed the glass beside her " You can go.. I'm ok.." She let her eyes fall into a trance with the flames a moment, before to took another bite of her food, Chewing on a peanut.. while she thought about..so many other things.. and really only one.
Hikaru Mekanic didn't look at her, keeping his eyes on the flames a small smile curling his lips at her compliment. "Will you be able to find your room or should I send someone to guide you?" He knew the tunnels were no more than an underground maze until you memorized them. Slowly he blinked feeling the burn in his eyes being this close to the flames caused but not minding, he was in no danger of combusting.
Isabella Bouvier began to lift the fork full of food to her lips before she paused, her eyes moving over to him " I will find my way.. " She said softly before she lowered the fork to her plate.. She looked him over for a long moment " Aydryan had said.. That he was not part of this decision.. But I refuse to make one with out him.. " She lowered her head then and looked back into the fire " I can be very stubborn.. so you can tell him.. he'd be wasting his time trying to convince me otherwise.." Her voice was utterly soft, but still range true.. It is how she felt on the matter.. That is the only thing, she knew how she felt about it..
Hikaru Mekanic stood slowly and looked down at her, even though he was standing, he didn't give the impression fo towering over her. "That is something you both have in common. Stubbornness." He smiled a bit weak still but it was warm. "I just wish..." He closed his eyes, his face contorting. "... that we had had the choice from the beginning. But I would not make any further... choices... without him." They were in agreement on that part, Aydryan could not step away from this and have no say in what happened. It affected him as well. He nodded to her saying that she could find her way. "If you get lost... do not feel bad about calling Jenna. She can guide you and every one of us has gotten lost down here before." He turned away but she would see his smile grow slightly. "Even myself. Good morning Isabella."
Isabella Bouvier shifted in her in her spot, she lifted the plate and placed at her side before she stretched her legs out before her. She thought on whether if this had happened differently, would she had agreed to it. Would she want to be tied to eternity to not just Hikaru but Aydryan as well.. She did not know. She got the feeling that Aydryan did not like her so much, which she usually had that effect on many.. Which is why she could not understand how this had happened to begin with... She lifted her gaze to him and nodded slowly agreeing with everything thing he said, though not trusting herself to speak in response to any of it just yet.. " Rest well Hikaru.." She had the way she came.. written in her head.. like a map.. she would find it.. She gave him a nod before she turned back to look at the fire a moment more.
Hikaru Mekanic turned and moved around the dining table, pushing open the door enough to slip out then silently made his way back to his and Aydryan's room for the day.