{The Rebellion}

[QueenofDorks]

The rumbling response of Maddox's voice caused soft laughter to emerge from her mouth, the ginger haired witch grinning lazily against his skin. She wriggled close to his body, face still tucked against his neck and breathing in the faintest smell of cologne that clung to him, from their date that had ensued well enough to end in a night of slow pleasure. It had been gentle, not in the least bit rough. But rather built up and passionate. "Mm... Edwin.." She drowsily addressed him, lost in a memory of a husband that no longer even existed. Yet... the familiarity that clung to Maddox had reminded her in her sleepy state. Mistaking the man for someone that he was not... but rather nearly seemed to be. She hadn't even recognized her mistake, still quite asleep but as well as partially awake.


--


Andras raised his eyes to meet her expected gaze, watching as a smirk drew out across her lips that reflected a sense of pride. His teeth elicited a harsher bite upon her shoulder, scraping against the skin and nearly drawing blood. Then he lapped at the mark that remained behind, ensuring that it remains to be seen by many. He scoffed, toying with a look of hurt. "Me? Complaining? Hon, last night was heaven. A place that I'll never achieve to see." He remarked, taking a jab at his demonic heritage. "But you surely brought me there..." He implied, voice dipping into a resonating husky tone. "I'll have to make it a more annual thing to challenge you from now on, princess. Especially if I get that sort of entertaining reaction from you..."

 

[InactiveCoffee]

Maddox blinked slightly as he heard Jade mumble a name, one that wasn't his own, but he decided to ignore it for the time being. He didn't want to disturb the moment, and somehow he didn't feel offended that she had said Edwin. Was that the E that was on her wrist? He mentally shrugged, and opted to ask about it later, at a different time. He chuckled softly, and squeezed her in a gentle hug before shifting and pulling away enough to look at Jade's face. He gave her a quick peck on the nose, "Want some breakfast?" he asked softly, keeping his voice from sounding to loud in the quiet morning.


--


The Nephilim gasped softly as his teeth sunk into her skin, adding a new mark to the series of them that littered her body, and laughed softly. "We'll see. Do it to often and I may get bored." she teased, jokingly, and shifted her arms, causing her upper torso to raise as she propped herself up on her elbows, leaning slightly to look at Andras. "Though I have to agree. It was heavenly." she laughed, adding to the joke of their different heritage, her thoughts momentarily fluttering to the angel blood that coursed through her veins. Ironic, actually. Part angel being intimate with a demon. I've covered the spectrum, haven't I? She thought, laughing softly over her observation.

 

[QueenofDorks]

Whatever memory she had encased herself within was long gone by now, rendering Jade conscious to the name that slipped from her lips. Guilt sunk in, just bearable enough until she realized not a reply or opposing comment had come from his mouth. Had he not heard her? It was best to assume so rather than ensue into an awkward morning. She smiled faintly, face crinkling in the slightest way at the kiss landed on her nose. "Yes... breakfast sounds amazing about right now." She agreed softly, hands leaning upwards and sliding through his hair. She gazed at him with soft eyes. As much as she yearned to stay in bed, to relish in this moment, her day had to start. She pressed a brief kiss to his mouth before she pulled away, hands pushing her up to rise from the bed. "Though... I'm going to take a shower in the meantime. Order whatever for the both of us. I'm not a picky person when it comes to food." She exited the bedroom, feet padding across the tiled flooring to the bathroom. Moments later the door clicked in place and the water could be heard kicking on with a stutter.


--


Andras smirked coyly at the gasp he managed to wriggle out of the beautiful woman. "Trixie getting bored? That's a sight I'd rather not see... that is why we must keep things interesting between us." He drawled, brows wiggling in the slight comedic perverse way. He chuckled, pressing his lips against the recently added mark and then lifted himself up, rising off the bed with a content sigh. Then he tilted his head, his newfound curiosity peaking through. "Jade hasn't returned. Her presence is lacking. Perhaps her date with politician boy went further than just that." He mused, a chuckle discharging from him. The demon stretched, arms above his head and then to his sides, before he sauntered over to a dresser to dig out today's outfit for himself.

 

[InactiveCoffee]

Maddox smiled, and watched as Jade sauntered to the bathroom before rolling to reach for the phone on the side table. He put it to his ear and dialed zero for the front desk. He placed the order for a simple pancake breakfast and thanked the person before hanging up the phone. He slid his legs off the side of the bed, his feet hitting the floor as he stood. He stretched, groaning softly, and sighed. He hummed softly as he collected his pants, tugging them on but leaving his shirt where it lay. By the time he heard Jade finish up in the shower, their breakfast had arrived. He collected it and set it on the table in the room before walking to the bathroom door and knocking lightly. "Breakfast is here." He said lightly and moved back to the table to wait for Jade.


--


Trixie laughed, following suit and sliding herself out of the large bed, moving to her suitcase to locate clothing for the day, a halter top and jeans that hugged her form. She scratched her side lightly, and carried her clothing to the bathroom. "I don't know about you, but I'm gonna shower." She laughed, smirking at the demon before disappearing through the doorway and starting the shower.

 

[QueenofDorks]

For the most part, the shower was merely used to collect her thoughts, the water falling heavily upon Jade's bare form, the witch still and quiet. Contemplating what had ensued, what it meant between them both as of now, and the nagging sense of familiarity that had wedged itself further within her chest. Enough to remind her of Edwin, more so than ever as of late. But perhaps it was a mere coincidence. Only surfacing feelings from the drawn out relationship with someone -- romantic nostalgia or something of the other. Had to be. She took several minutes to wash her hair and body before turning off the water and climbed out. The knock surprised her, drawing her eyes to the door. "I'll be out in a minute." She responded, projecting her voice just slight enough to be heard by Maddox. After drying herself off, the ginger haired woman wrapped herself into one of the soft bathrobes the hotel supplied, tucked away in the closet. She exited the room, fingers skillfully tying the robe to hug her form. Jade eased herself over to the kitchen table, the smell of pancakes managing to cast a smile upon her lips. "Looks delicious." She commented lightly, plucking up the silverware that had been settled besides her plate. Both fork and knife sliced into a single piece, lifting it to her mouth to chew. And, as she did so, she grinned with contentment.


--


Andras paused, hands wavering as he considered her teasing musing of words. He grinned, slyly, and retrieved a flannel, tank top, and a pair of ripped dark jeans. "Oh, I'm certaintly going to join you for a shower. Not an opportunity I'd wish to pass up, princess." He eased himself after her, carrying his assortment of clothes within his arms. The demon settled them aside upon the bathroom sink, peering into the mirror. Stubble was beginning to grow out upon his chin, more noticeable than usual. He pursed his lips, casting his ember eyes towards Trixie. "Do you like beards?"

 

[InactiveCoffee]

Maddox smiled as he started to eat now that Jade was seated, having politely waited. "Smells just as good." He chuckled to her comment, fork in one hand, knife in the other. He was content, sitting there, eating breakfast. Though a nagging sensation kept pulling at his thoughts. The name she had uttered in her sleep, and the odd familiarity of it and of her. His mind wandered to the last conversation he had with her father and his parting words to him. About half way through his meal, he set his fork down, and set his eyes on Jade. "I can't seem to shake this feeling of dejavu." He sighed, his eyes dropping to the plate before him. "And it keeps making me think of the last thing your father said to me that confused me. He said I had an old soul. Do you have any idea about all this?" He asked, raising his eyes back to the ginger haired woman.


--


Trixie laughed lightly, hidden already within the shower, the steaming water washing over her naked form. "They aren't horrid as long as their kept groomed. I'm not one for lumber jack beards, but a little facial hair can look pretty sexy if done right." She saif over the rush of water, smiling to herself. The water felt amazing on her sore body, her hair clinging to her neck and shoulders. She sighed softly, taking the time to message her legs.

 

[QueenofDorks]

Breakfast had eased into a content peacefulness, the two enjoying the silence of the early morning. Until, halfway through the meal, Maddox ceased on eating and surfaced the discussion that hadn't been talked amongst them. The familiarity, the constant stirring of recognized feelings. It was mutual, both feeling it. As if nearly connected. Jade lowered her fork, swallowing the chewed piece of pancake. "An old soul?" She echoed the phrase, vaguely confused. "As in reincarnations, sharing the same past life kinda stuff?" She exaggerated upon it more, grasping for a more explanation, albeit setting aside her silverware to life a napkin to her lips. She wiped her mouth, tossing the cloth to the side, and leaning backwards in the wooden chair. "It's not something I'm well knowledgable in but rather merely aware of. My grimoires would tell me more but that would have to wait until I return to the base." She drew into a certain silence, picking at her thoughts, scrounging for the slightest ideas. What it meant to this, them, and why her father had brought the subject up. Abruptly she leaned forward, "In the mean time though... give me your hand. I can attempt to get a reading, it may not be 100% correct but... it's worth a try." She extended out her hand towards him, "What were the exact words my father said when he mentioned it? If you don't mind me asking of course."


--


"Hmm... suppose I'll keep this stubble look a round bit longer. Soon as a beard starts to set in I'll shave it off." Andras abandoned the mirror above the sink to instead climb into the shower behind Trixie, his gaze roaming slightly across her body. "I really did a number on you if you must be this sore, sweetheart." He purred, proudly boasting this aloud to the woman as he noted the way she massaged her legs. Chuckles emerged from the demon and he turned, grasping a face cloth and bar of soap that had been tucked away inside it's own container. He removed it gingerly, careful to not let it slip and fall. Once wrapped against the face cloth he lifted his hands towards the shower head where warm water steadily fell from, soaking the soap good enough to use to scrub. Outstretched arms withdrew back to start applying the face cloth gently against her marked skin, he being tediously sweet as possible while he began to wash her body.

 

[InactiveCoffee]

Maddox slid his plate to the side, lifting his hand to Jade as she spoke. "He looked me up and down, his eyes lingered on my chest and he told me that I carried an old soul. He also informed me that I should do my best to protect it again. As if I had done so before or something." He explained, shrugging slightly. "And I'd have no clue about reincarnation and whatnot. I try not to speculate on what happens when we technically die." He sighed, watching Jade curiously.


--


Trixie laughed, "It's been a long time since I got that kind of work out, Basic." She smirked, and straightened herself as soon as she felt his hands on her, the cloth and soap in one hand. The gentleness was certainly welcome, but then again she'd quickly come to enjoy his hands on her, unlike some other memories she carried locked away. She laughed softly, "You could say it's a good hurt." She grinned, and shifting so that her back was to him. She gathered her hair and pulled it over a shoulder and out of the way.

 

[QueenofDorks]

Partial of Maddox's explanation had been heard by the ginger haired witch, although thoroughly more invested in the creases of the palm of his hand. Her fingers traced them, the slightest whisper of English and Latin meshing together -- a mess of jumbled words, slow and drawled. Pratically whispers. Then her head whipped upwards, eyes rolled back, and stilling into a stance. Smoke filled my lungs, my legs are heavy and tired. Friends are dying, tripping, stumbling at my side as they run to flee. They won't make it, too many are injured. Several shots rang out, one nicking my side but the next penetrates my chest, then another. I'm falling. Oh God. I'm bleeding, dying. Footsteps draw near, French angrily falling from their lips. I'm dead, they intend to kill me. Jade... Then she was gasping, reeling at the intensity of memories. Memories that had belonged to Edwin in his last moments on the battlefield. She trembled, withdrew her hands far from Maddox and pressed her fingers to the skin below her eyes, wielding herself not to cry. She avoided his gaze, refusing to utter and recount what had been seen, what he was tied to.


--


"Uh huh... it was a certain pleasurable workout no doubt." Andras asserted with laughter, he shifting a bit closer. One arm extended out, settling at her waist while he rubbed the cloth against her back. Fingers traced the tattoo that eased her transition from regular woman to your ordinary angel within a matter of seconds. The face cloth roved over her body, gentle and coddling almost. His lips pressed to her neck, indulging in the sweetest kiss he could plant against her shoulder blades and now neck, as soon as she brushed aside slick hair. Pratically begging for the skin to be nicked with teeth and bruising kisses.

 

[InactiveCoffee]

Maddox blinked, startled by whatever had happened as Jade poured over his palm, and reeled as something almost seemed to seize her. He jumped up from his seat, rounding the table in two strides to come to her side. Instinctively, he moved slide his arms around the witch, pulling her from her seat. "What in the world just happened? Are you alright?" He asked worried, wondering what had possibly been the cause of such a reaction.


--


The nephilim felt a shiver run the length of her spine as Andras traced over the tattoo that was her wings when she wasn't flying, and again as his lips made contact with her bare neck. She couldn't remember anyone eliciting such easy reactions from her before, but then again, her only other lovers had all been human. Very much different from another supernatural, much less a demon. Someone who could match her in stamina and other things. She smirked to herself, her eyes heavy lidded as she enjoyed the touch. Already thinking of how to repay the sensual wash down.

 

[QueenofDorks]

The warm embrace of Maddox's arms embracing Jade was something she welcomed, for a brief amount of time. Then she was pulling away, pushing him away. Her hands clasped in front, wringing tightly and she averting her eyes far from Maddox. "I'm fine. I need to... study and decipher the memories before I can say anything." She decided with a tilted smile, head bobbing fervently in a nod. What she had seen wasn't even the slightest bit of normal. A strong reaction from a simple palm reading and now look at her. Reduced to an emotional wreck. Reluctantly she settled back into her chair, fingers swiping away the few loose stray of tears that had slipped from her eyes. Her gaze casted to the right, lingering upon his chest. He had the old soul of Edwin, lingering and meshing within his personality somewhere.


--


The silence of the shower, besides the running water, lulled Andras to contentment. He continued to wash every inch of her body, albeit still sensually slow. Easing a certain amount of gentleness upon the nephlim. However, despite his yearning desire to live in this moment, relaxed without the slightest worry to ensure itself upon him, all things must come to an end. His hands finally withdrew once she had been washed. Kisses brushed across her neck, dotingly sweet and then he stepped backwards, wedging up a distance between them both. Wordlessly he lathered up the soap once more against the cloth, intended to work on washing his body next.

 

[InactiveCoffee]

Maddox quickly released Jade as he felt her pushing him away, worried for only a moment that he had upset her, but when he looked at her face he knew it was something else entirely. He frowned slightly, reaching up and brushing hair from her face, his thumb catching a stray tear as it attempted to escape down her cheek. He noticed how her eyes lingered on his chest, but he thought nothing of it as he was more concerned with how she had reacted to whatever she had seen. He frowned, "Don't worry about it if it's something that's going to reduce you to tears, Jade." he said softly, his fingers lingering near her face before he quickly withdrew his hand, easily recalling only moments ago how she'd pushed him away. He was even more curious now about what she had seen, but he wasn't going to press the matter if the memories, as she had said, were going to cause her pain. He tried to give her a small smile, "I didn't mean to make you cry." he said gently.


--


As soon as his hands were no longer on her body, and she felt the distance spread between them, Trixie let the water wash the soap bubbles off her body and turned to face Andras. "Never has anyone treated me like that." she said softly, smiling warmly. She reached out and took the face cloth, taking it gently from Andras and stepped closer to him once again. Silently, she set her hands against his chest, working the soap lather over her hands as she began to return the gesture. Her hands skillfully worked over his chest and shoulders, down his arms. Even taking the time to crouch and get his legs. Taking her time and working the soap over him just as slowly and gently as he had done for her.

 

[QueenofDorks]

The lightest touch of Maddox's fingers against her face made her head tilt upwards, meeting his gaze that projected his concern. Tears fell more quickly now, Jade lowering her eyes from him as she swiped her hand across her face to clear the remnants. "I know, I know... I'm sorry. It's just me." She conveyed to him softly, swallowing down the slightest sob. Fingers raised to press against her eyes, she steadying her breath and the trembles of numerous emotions, the shock that ran high -- still was, to this very moment. She breathed in and then out, shoulders slumping in defeat. Then she settled her hands back into her lap and she mustered a smile, although it wavering and faltering. "I'm fine now. The intensity of the memories caught me off guard. That's all."


--


Andras furrowed his brow at her softly said words, surprise etched into his features. "Really? No one hasn't doted on you with gentleness and affection as I just did?" He prompted, allowing the face cloth to be removed from his hands and instead into her own grasp. "That's a pity, princess. Suppose it gives me more reason to express endearment upon you. Even if we are just mere friends with benefits." The demon slipped into silence moments afterward whilst Trixie began to return the favor by washing his body, slowly sensual. He visibly relaxed, relishing in the feeling.

 

[InactiveCoffee]

Maddox frowned for a moment, but nodded, boldly wrapping her in his arms once again. "I apologize for the distress." he said softly, and then released her, turning to move back to his seat so that they could finish eating. Though he had to admit, his appetite was pretty well gone. He glanced over at Jade, "Shall we take our leave now? Unfortunately, we probably shouldn't linger to much longer. I'm sure your demon friend is worried you've been out all night, and I've eyes that are watching my movements." he sighed, sad that their time together for the moment was drawing to an end.


--


Trixie looked up from where her eyes rested on Andras' body as she washed him, and smiled softly. "I've never exactly had any kind of relationship, friends with benefits or otherwise, that you could say was in my control." she said, and returned her attentions to what she was doing. When she had finished the front of him, she waited for him to turn so that she could get his back. "Long life story, and nothing I wish to reminisce on. It's past, and that's where I'd like it to stay." she added softly, not wanting the demon to press her on the details behind her words. She was already planning on speaking to Jade about it all, but only when the witch had the time, and that was even if Trixie could work up the courage to talk about it. She frowned slightly, her hands faltering, slowing. She blinked and mentally shook herself, forcing her attention back to the task at hand.

 

[QueenofDorks]

The hug lasted briefly much to Jade's dismay. His embrace was warm, comforting. She wanted to remain within his arms, wracking her mind how to politely put it that he withheld her late husband's soul within himself. But how could one explain something she doesn't entirely understand? Reincarnation was more knowledgable to a necromancer then to a mere witch. John must've assessed his soul, wondering the worth of it. What use it meant to him. The thought gripped her, eyes peering up as Maddox addressed her. Would he toy with Maddox? Even more so now? He held a part of someone she had loved and adored, would he really be that cruel? "It'd certaintly would be best for us to leave. Before any suspicion arises." She asserted stifly, the ginger haired woman rising from her seat. "Let me slip back into my dress and grab my heels. I'll be ready afterwards." She disappeared into the bedroom, door clicking shut behind her to elicit a barrier of privacy between the both of them. Though she didn't take long, slipping back into the discarded dress that had been upon the floor, hands skillfully zipping it in the back. Then slipping into her heels, adjusting the set of earrings back where they once hung on her ears. Afterwards she exited, hands raised and drawing her still damp hair into a bun. "Ready," she informed Maddox softly.


--


The wheels within Andras' head begun to turn, calculating what she had said and adjusting to what it meant. Was she forced into something she didn't agree with? It was a concerning possibility that it perhaps was, in fact, the case. The way she had voiced her words, how she had never had a relationship where she was in control. Two words that drew him to be unsettled, worried even. He turned around, carefully doing so so he wouldn't slip. His mouth parted. Then closed, quieting the questions that threatened to peak from his lips. "I won't ask. I know better than to not press a woman upon a matter that is sensitive to her. But, just know that... I'm here for you, regardless. If you ever need to talk, I'm your man." He murmured, softly and sincere.

 

[InactiveCoffee]

Maddox nodded, and dressed himself in the remaining articles of clothing he hadn't adorned as of yet, finishing with his shoes just as Jade returned from the bedroom. He stood, and lifted his jacket from the back of the chair where it had hung, and smiled softly at Jade. "Then let's be off." he said gently, and moved for the door. Together they left the hotel, returning the room keys as they went, and to his waiting car. He opened the door for Jade, letting her climb into the vehicle before moving around to climb in as well. "I'd like to go on a second date, if we can find the time. Maybe one that won't require us to be under the nose of so many of my father's friends." he chuckled as he started the car and pulled out of the parking lot. "I really enjoyed my time with you." he said with a grin.


--


A soft laugh discharged from Trixie's lips as she finished up washing down Andras, and she set the soap aside, rinsing the face cloth before setting it back as well. "Thanks." she said simply, shifting in the shower so that Andras could rinse himself free of soap. She hesitated a moment, curious if Andras would listen to her past, but quickly decided against saying anything. She bit her lip, and finally pushed herself to climb out of the shower and grab a towel. If it was hard enough to admit to herself, when she was the one with the memories, it was going to be even harder for her to admit it to anyone else. And she had already promised she'd tell Jade, which she was now beginning to think was a stupid idea. Though it was things that as part of this rebellion, Jade needed to know. Trixie's connections, no matter why they were formed, were still there and still present. Politician's new her face, and one select man knew her secret. Though there was enough blackmail on either end to keep Burk or the Nephilim from ever giving away each other's secrets. It was still a liability. One she had kept quiet about when she joined the rebellion. She dried herself quickly, and wrapped the towel around her hair so that she could dress without it dripping water down her body.

 

[QueenofDorks]

Once settled within the premise of Maddox's car, Jade leaned against the plush leather the passenger seat was coated in. She crossed her legs, a hand smoothing against the creases of the dress that had formulated last night in the midst of their continuous lip locking, the memory managing to flare some color into her cheeks. She raised her softening gaze to the man that sat beside her, watching as his hands worked skillfully against the steering wheel, the car pulling from the parking lot. "I too enjoyed our time together, Maddox. Last night was amazing..." She admitted, voice gentle as she projected the sincere honesty. Her fingers tucked a few loose strands of hair behind her ear, locks that had fallen loose from the bun she had tied back. "I wouldn't mind going on a second date. Whenever we can find time between our schedules." She merely offered, casting her eyes back upon the road rather than looking at him. "Were you thinking of a more semi-secluded place to go to? One without so many political friends your father possesses, of course."


--


Andras offered a mere smile in return to her uttered response of thanks. He moved forwards, allowing the water to rid his body of soap bubbles that still clung to his heavily marked skin. Both hands raising and raking through his mess of soaking wet hair. He turned, watching as she climbed from the shower, he following moments afterwards. Grasping a nearby of set towels he proceeded to dry himself off, then tucking it around his waist and tying a secured knot. He eased his way out of the bathroom, taking his clothes with them to give her privacy. "You wanna head down to the dining hall afterwards?" He called out to her, slipping into a tank top and adjusting a flannel shirt over it. Then he slipped on boxers, a pair of ripped jeans following after.

 

[InactiveCoffee]

Maddox glanced sideways at Jade and smiled, "Yes. One that is a little more semi-secluded." he chuckled, "Perhaps a picnic in the botanical gardens or something." he suggested wryly, chuckling at the suggestion of time in their schedules. That was something they would have to make time for, and he could only hope that there would be time to make. He steadily drove through the town, the hotel only a short few minutes from the bar where they had met up. "You've got my number if you need anything or just want to talk." he said with a smile as he pulled alongside the curb outside the Crow. "See you again, I hope." he said with a wink, adding the last two words to his statement merely for their ruse for the shadows that belonged to John.


--


Trixie looked at herself in the mirror after Andras had left the bathroom, and sighed softly. She glanced toward the door at the sound of his voice still talking to her, "You go a head..." she called back, hesitating for a moment. "I... I'm not actually that hungry this morning." she said, and looked back at the mirror. We're only friends with benefits. I needn't cling myself to him and follow him around like a love sick pup. I need to space myself now that we're rooming. I can't get close. She told herself mentally, frowning slightly. She mentally shook herself and moved away from the sink, stepping into the bedroom to collect her hairdryer from her suitcase and return to the bathroom. She plugged it in and unwrapped her hair, moving into the slow process of drying her thick hair. She rather hated leaving her hair wet. Her ears were keen on listening for Andras' approach or departure as she worked her hair, her mind muddled with numerous thoughts passing through her mind. He's a flirt. He may be kind after the fact, but this is all merely fun and games. Don't let his kindness lull you into a spot where you get hurt, Trix. She told herself firmly.

 

[QueenofDorks]

"A picnic? Sounds romantic... you have me sold on the idea." Jade chimed in remark to his words, the witch projecting an impish grin from her mouth. As they pulled up against the curb to the looming building of the bar outside, she removed her seatbelt in a fluid click and tugged it from the confined hold against her midsection. She turned, facing him as he spoke, emitting the slightest nods of acknowledgment to his words. There was a pause, hesitance rising from the woman. Then she leaned in, lips capturing his into a briefly held kiss. But one she made sure that would leave them breathless, hopefully now an evident memory in his mind. "I'll text you later," she promised, a whisper against his mouth. She withdrew away afterwards, flashing a smile along the way, and climbed from his car. Her heels scuffed lightly against the asphalt as she sashayed her way to where her car was parked, Jade raising one hand to wave at him. She then proceeded to climb into the own premise of her car, sliding the keys into the ignition.


--


The slightest amount of hesitance was sullenly noted by Andras, picking out the wavering in her voice. Had he done something? Said a certain thing in particular to make her so off standish? He rubbed at the stubble formulating across his chin, eyes lingering on her brief appearance in the bedroom as she wordlessly retrieved the hair dryer from her suitcase. Not even a parting sentence? He frowned, a bit agitated by it all. It's not like he had pressed details at the surfacing topic of her past. He had respected her desire of not wanting to talk about it. Why the cold shoulder? He huffed out a sigh, spraying some cologne onto his appearance and briskly vacating his -- their room. His feet eased down the hallway, towards the stairs that would lead him to the lower level where the dining hall laid, alive with various rebels already gathering breakfast.

 

[InactiveCoffee]

Trixie sighed as she heard the distance click that told her Andras had left the room, and turned the dryer off. She stared at herself in the mirror, emotions she had long shoved down spilling over the small jar she kept them in. "Well, I was certainly a bitch just now." she muttered incredulously at her reflection. "I'll have to apologize. I really shouldn't have just gone quiet after declining his offer. It wasn't him." she sighed, shaking her head. She reached up, touching the mirror as if caressing her reflection's cheek, staring at herself. "Have I gone utterly mad? Shoving away the one person who has treated me kindly and not as a toy to sleep with a discard?" she muttered, and sighed, letting her hand drop back down from the mirror and lifted the dryer again. She finished up with her hair and scurried from the room, heading for the dining hall. Hopefully Andras would still be there, and she had finally calmed down enough and gotten her emotions back in check. She needed to apologize, and hopefully do so without leaving to many more questions about herself.


--


Maddox was, honestly, surprised by the parting kiss, though he wasn't going to complain. He returned the kiss fervently, and smirked as she climbed from the car. "I'll be waiting for it." he chuckled, rolling his eyes as the door closed and she sashayed off to her own car. He watched until she was safely within her vehicle before pulling away from the curb and headed back toward his own home. By now, he was certain someone, if not many, had gotten back to his father about seeing him out with a woman. Not to mention, he needed to prepare himself for whatever encounter must be in the wings with John's apparition. He had to have answers ready, and not flounder to cause suspicions.

 

[QueenofDorks]

Andras had secluded himself to one of the farther tables, a tray of eggs and greasy bacon sizzling, a cup of coffee perched beside the plate. He wasn't entirely alone, a patrolling guard standing near him. Both were occupied in conversing about the report that had been presented. The guard was relaying some strange sightings at the borders between the barrier and the base, shadows, ghosts, spirits. Whatever one wanted to call it. Fading and reappearing, closer but albeit keeping a distance between the forest and the magic that prevented from them entering the premise of the mansion. Seemed they had gotten smarter, acknowledging they'd combust if they took a step through. Perhaps it was about time Jade strengthened the barrier a bit more. And that was another topic; Jade. The rebellion leader had yet to arrive from her late night date with Maddox. A matter that had the demon confusingly concerned. He could only hope that no harm had come her way, and that she was tied up with breakfast with politician boy after spending the night together.


--


Jade pulled away from The Crow moments after Maddox had. The fervent parting kiss remained a lingering sensation on her lips, inducing her to smile, just faintly enough. But her mind drew back to the nagging thoughts among the happiness. He held Edwin's soul, he was a reincarnation of a man she was once wedded to. It certainly explained the constant sense of familiarity, the déjà vu of his affection and the particular way he spoke. More importantly why he had called her Addie. It was an impulse, one that hadn't been forgotten. She smiled grimly at that. More needed to be learned about what this meant, the furthering intricate affects upon a reincarnation. What could happen, et cetera. She'd have to spend her day scouring through books, grimoires, perhaps the internet if nothing pratical surfaced in literature. Though, one thing for certain was she needed to discuss with Andras about it; her only confidant in it all.

 

[InactiveCoffee]

Trixie scoured the dining hall until her eyes lit upon Andras, and she strode over, passing by the trays of food. She really hadn't been hungry, so at least she wasn't lying. She sighed as she approached the table, glancing to the guard and then directing her eyes directly at Andras. "Hey." she said simply, "I just wanted to say... if I came off cold, I'm sorry. My mind was focused on things I haven't thought about in a long time, and still have difficulty admitting to myself." she said, her voice low, and deflated. "It wasn't anything you had done, if you happened to be thinking that. Just thought I'd tell you." she said, shrugging. She cast her eyes around the hall, looking at those who were laughing and talking among themselves. "Has Jade not gotten back yet? I was sure she'd be with you." she noted, the absence of the ginger haired witch clear. She blinked and looked back at the situation before her, "Oh, I'm sorry. I interrupted... huh? Do I need to go?" she asked, eyes settling back on Andras after a short glance to the guard once again.


--


Maddox arrived home quickly enough, surprised at the lack of traffic until he realized it was midmorning and the early morning business rush had already cleared for the day. He sighed, shaking his head, and pulled into the garage of his large home, popping the door open but remaining in his seat. The darkness of the garage was oddly welcoming. "Things sure do get complicated quickly." he sighed softly, shaking his head.

 

[QueenofDorks]

The demon surveyed his eyes to the nephlim woman as she approached, voice low as she spilled words of apologies from her mouth, tangled within half of an explanation. He casted his gaze to the guard, one that hadn't been entirely clear he had been dismissed the moment Trixie had placed herself by the table. He offered a sheepish smile to only clamber away to leave the two alone. Andras reached out, grasping Trixie by the arm and tugging her down into the empty seat besides him. "It's a reassurance to know that I hadn't done or said anything wrong. That was my immediate reaction." He admitted to the woman, voice kept to a whisper for the sake of those that may be overhearing in the nearby tables. He gazed at her with a certain sincereness, brows furrowed to withhold the expression onto his features. "I'm serious, Trix. I'm here for you. If you want to vent or have the utmost raging desire to punch someone then be my guest. As long as you don't go for the face. The face is off limits." He attempted to keep it lightly humorous, to earn at least somewhat of a laugh from Trixie. Seeing her like this was abnormal and unusual. Not particularly fond of the attitude. "Don't feel like you have to keep everything cooped up inside of yourself. Sometimes it's best to face the feelings head on." His eyes then moved from her, watching as there was movement in the doorway of the dining hall. Jade had entered, briefly distracted with a greeting from the guard. She looked a bit ruffled, appearance wise, but nothing seemed off. "Morning," he drawled to the witch as soon as she wandered over.


--


The darkness of the garage shifted rapidly, churning, and forming against the leering figure of one of John's apparitions, this one moving quicker than the others. Within less than a minute it had shoved it's face into Maddox's peripheral vision, hand plunged halfway through him; darkness seeping into a tight clutch around his soul. Raging icy hues bore into the politcian's eyes. "Mind explaining why've you decided to fraternize with the enemy, the bird that's supposed to be captured?" John drawled the words from his minion's mouth, the apparition applying a tighter grasp to the soul that squirmed and withered under the darkness the seeped inwards into his body. "Answer me or so help me I'll rip the one thing that's keeping you who you are."

 

[InactiveCoffee]

Trixie looked over at Andras, a grin tugging at her lips over his comment of his face being off limits. She couldn't help herself, but laugh softly and roll her eyes. "So that tells me to hit nothing but the face, right? Is that what you were trying to say?" she drawled teasingly, though her statement was cut slightly short when Jade entered her field of vision and Andras addressed her. "Hmm. Speak of the devil." she sighed, shaking her head. "About that talk we need to have Jade... it'd probably be better we talk sooner than later." she said softly, her momentary uplift quickly falling again. "Preferably before I lose the courage to say it at all. Because I have to explain it for the situation to be understood." she said, glancing over at Andras. "It's a long story that I'd rather not anyone but those I intend should hear." she added, "Meaning, you and Andras." she noted.


--


Maddox grunted in pain as the shadow moved in on him and seemed to take hold of his soul, pain flaring in his chest to the point it was almost to hard to breathe, let alone speak. "Th-that was Jade?" he asked, trying to sound convincing. "Sh-she said her name was Sara! I swear! I just thought I was getting in with some foot solider or something." he said quickly, wincing as the pain seeped through his body. He took short, quick breaths, unable to manage more than that. "That being Jade is just better for me. It will make capturing her easier! I can have her over here for dinner or something..." he winced, groaning as he quickly formulated something that would hopefully tide over the apparitions wrath. "I can lock her away here, and then conduct the raid. They'll be... helpless without their leader." he said.

 

[QueenofDorks]

Jade leveled her eyes to the nephlim as she too was addressed, the ginger haired woman drawing into a silence. The unnerving smelly man that had stumbled upon Maddox and her last night flashed in her head, a reminder of what had been said. "Oddly enough I needed to have a discussion with you as well, Trix. I met someone that was loosely throwing your name around in a club. Burk ring a bell to you?" She prompted, brows raised, the witch obviously not in the slightest amused by it. She could only hope that whatever was to be said between the three would involve a loose explanation on the connection. In the meantime however, to ease the slightest of tension, Andras chimed in curiously, "You went clubbing? I thought it was a dinner of sorts." He was appraised with a near flustered gaze as the date was surfaced to discussion, he grinning with mild temptation to pry further. "We went to a club afterwards. That's least bit important and not a subject I wish to talk about right away at this very moment." She insinuated sharply, voice a hissing whisper. Her gaze returned to Trixie, awaiting a proper answer from her.


--


More pressured applied to his soul, just for a good measure, and then the shadow wrenched it's hand free from his chest. It backed off, though lingered dangerously. Prepared to further a point if need be. "My patience is thinning," his voice snarled, resonating in the shrouded darkness of the garage. "Do as we bargained or I shred the very existence of this soul you possess. And be quick about it. I'm growing bored in this cell." He insisted, a rumbling growl. "Draw her here and then call in the raid. Afterwards I want Jade, bring her to me and you will be free from my grasp. Understood?"