The Dark Draith Hunt
Rated mature for gore and violence
Snow was always on the ground even during the summer, although it was much thinner then.
it was mid fall and the winter storms had just begun to roll into the mountains.
The people, used to such weather, found their ways to their homes, stopping on the road at one particular spot where there was a rather warm fire.
Laughter and greetings were passed back and forth as well as goods.
A pair of brothers were bartering wood and furs for food. Although they shared a name they looked nothing alike.
Michael and Michale. One was long and slender with pale skin and hair an ash brown. He was the softer spoken of the two and was always careful in his actions and very attentive to his brother.
The other was even taller than the first, but his shoulders were broad and his hair was raven black and rich in it's strength as were his eyes.
His eyes shone with life, but no one could pinpoint their exact color for they often changed.
Some assumed he was Michale the elder, for he was bold and straightforward and spoke the truth to those he saw. He never left his brother's side and no one ever got them confused together despite their identical names.
The light began to dim and the snowfall thicker as the brothers finally packed away their traded and non-traded goods and began heading into the wood. They ignored their burdens and their voices rang with humor.
The dark haired one shook his head and playfully shoved the thinner brother. "She was indeed! Looking at you the whole time! Did you not see how rosy her cheeks turned when you looked at her?"
"It is cold out. Of course her cheeks would be rosy." The slimmer brother countered, he himself blushing at the comment. "It doesn't mean anything... you're seeing things!"
"Perhaps it's because I have eyes and that's why I can see what's right in front of my face." The dark-haired brother laughed. He glanced up ahead for they were somewhat near the house and a distant look came into his eyes.
The lean brother was quick to speak. "Well perhaps I should ask her... um... to come to the dance!" He stated, his eyes flashing in worry.
"Huh... uh huh..." The dark-haired Michale said, turning and glancing up through the trees.
"Michale?" The lean brother said, stepping near him. "Come on Michale. Let's race to the house."
"The.. house..." The dark-haired brother repeated, his eyes growing even more distant.
"MICHALE" his brother shouted, snapping him out of it.
"What?" He said, slightly dazed.
The soft eyes of his leaner brother twinkled as he dashed off. "Race ya!"
"HEY!" Was the response of the taller Michale and he dashed after him. They both entered the house almost simultaneously and dropped their heavy burdens, gasping for breath as the snow began to swirl in great abundance behind them as they closed the door.
"I'll say I've won." The dark haired brother stated with a smirk at his twin-in-name. "And you can put this stuff away for cheating."
Michael groaned and rolled his eyes. "Come on! You're twice as strong as me! You could at least help!" He said, moving the food into their warm-gold colored kitchen.
"Take off your coat and boots and I will hang them by the fire." The bigger brother instructed, swatting Michael over the head lightly for dragging snow in.
As the brothers went about their work, the leaner brother began to hum... and not very well.
The raven-haired Michale chuckled and shook his head as he hung the last stocking by the fireplace. His eyes wandered into the flames and he felt his attention being drawn once again. He felt... something... like a call.
The fire soon was all Michale could see and his thoughts faded into the flames.
Michale opened his eyes, blinking in confusion. He had just been looking at the fire and now he was laying in his own bed.
He sat up and looked over at the bed of his brother who seemed to be fast asleep.
*I blacked out again...* He thought to himself, putting his face in his hands. He glanced down at his pendant.
It was supposed to be for good luck. The tiny clearish-white roughly-cut gemstone hanging on an old chain. He had promised Michael never to take it off and in times when he found himself lost in heart or mind, Michale found all he had to do was hold onto it and he found peace.
Slowly, Michael wrapped his large hand around the tiny crystal and as always, peace entered his soul.
He looked over at his brother once more to make sure he was sleeping peacefully before he himself lay down and closed his eyes, letting sleep come.
Yet even as the larger brother drifted away into peaceful slumber, the smaller one lay on his side, back to him, his own eyes filled with pain.
He could never let him know.
Not now.
Not ever.
It was said once that the world was once nearly destroyed by fire, but that in the end all would be overwhelmed in ice.
Two, so strongly opposing forces that seemed to exist to wipe the other out.
And yet, in the dark of night, they danced together in a terrifying display of destruction.
In the once grassy plain, covered in snow, fire danced about like snakes in the water. Screams were heard as the people fled, held back by the heavy weight of the snow grabbing at their boots.
It seemed so white, so pure, so cold. A force that should have been on their side.
A force that was deceptive in it's loveliness.
Women wept as they ran, not daring to glance back at the village they abandoned as fire reigned down from the sky.
In the darkest of night the sky was black, calm and glittering with starlight.
This dark cloak, adorning the sky in beauty, also hid a dark figure who could not be seen, heard, or even sensed until it was too late.
Another burst of flame came forth from it's mouth, revealing it's hideous form. Like a gargoyle, black from horn-tip to clawed toe, and yet like a man. It's dragon-like wings beat in a silent drum-roll to the deaths of all those in the town and field.
It's eyes were empty, as if all life and light were sucked from their sockets. No expression. No compassion.
No chance for hope.
A child tripped and fell into the snow. it lay there whimpering as it heard the screams continue all about her. She clutched her small doll to her heart, shielding it from the devastation, from the echoes of lives being snuffed out.
The young girl cried but dared not make a sound even as her tears fell into the snow...
The snow of white and fire.
Snow mixed with earth and blood.
Cry after cry the bodies fell in almost poetic rhythm to the earth.
The girl remained still, frozen like her tears to the snow. The beat of terror began to fade and then all so slowly the silence grew. It grew even as the firelight in the snow faded.
Not a breath. Not a sound.
And then... the first rays of the sun began to appear.
The little girl stirred, wondering if the night was over, lifting her eyes in hope to see the light of the sun.
She stood, her doll held to her heart.
But it was there.
In a tree older than the land itself, the Dark Draithe crouched. It's lifeless eyes saw her clearly.
The girl's eyes lifted and the doll fell into the snow.
The fire came.
Michale sat up with a start, his heart pounding. He blinked and realized it was already mid-morning.
*What was I dreaming about?* He wondered to himself, but shrugged it off.
Little did he understand, his dreams were not his alone.
And waking was the darkest nightmare of them all.
Michale yawned as he began to button his outer shirt, strolling into the main living area.
Michael was humming gleefully as ever as he cooked over the fireplace.
"What do we have for breakfast?" The dark haired Michale asked as he plopped down into a large wooden chair covered in many furs.
"We have some fresh venison in broth." Michael said, lifting his soft eyes smiling. "How did you sleep last night?"
"Horribly." Michale said with a fake pout. "What about you?"
Michael shook his head. "The wind kept beating against the windows... it was giving me nightmares."
Michale nodded, wondering if that was the cause of his own. His eyes shifted to his slender brother and he grinned. "You were going to ask Hannah to the dance."
Michael's head came up, his eyes widening. "Me?"
"You said so yesterday." Michale pointed out. "And I think you should go."
Michael shook his head. "I don't want to go."
The larger brother laughed outloud and walked over to him.
"If I find a date and go, will you go?"
Michael grinned and nodded, handing him a plate. "Yeah. You and I together sounds just about right. It shouldn't be hard to find a girl for you."
"I will ask the first one I see... unless the first one I see is Hannah, then you ask her." Michale chuckled, taking he food back to his chair where they ate and talked about the upcoming dance.
In a village at the bottom of the mountains, people were still talking about the appearance of the Draithe nearby. It was rare for the Draithe to attack so near the mountains, which were said to be magically protected from the demon.
The mountains were well known for their power, and many who dared face the draithe often went to the mountains to search for that item or charm that could help protect them from the invincible beasts' attacks.
This was also the reason many swindlers set up shop at the town at the base of the mountain. Selling leaves, or stones, or even bones from the animals of the mountains as charms to ward off the darkness.
One such shop-keeper saw a young woman walking through the town, armed very well with the look of revenge in her eye. He grinned and called out to her, "My lady! Do you seek to kill the great demon that haunts us all? No warrior great or powerful can do so without a little luck on his side! Come! Look at these charms I have! Straight from the blessed mountains! They are a bargain!"
The woman in a deep dark blue cape with her hood up came walking over and said
"Thank you kind sir for your offer but I already have my own charm that will keep myself safe Could you please direct me to the last place the draithe was last seen. I would really appreciate your aid I could compensate you." She leaned in closer to the older man and smiles innocently.
"Well it hasn't been seen in several months... although they say that there was a town burned south of here down the winding river... I could tell you which town." The man leered at her, wiggling his eyebrows as he also leaned closer to her. "Perhaps you could give me that compensation tonight after some dinner?"
The woman irritatedly straightened and put her hand on her hip and said, "I'm sorry but why can't I give it to you now? I really don't have the time to have dinner with you..."
The double meaning in his words did not dawn on her as she continued,
"So if you could kindly give me the town i'll be on my way. Or I could find someone who is more interested in my compensation."
"Well if you want to give it to me right away-" The man said, practically licking his lips as his eyes roved around her figure.
"Leave her alone, Wallace." Michael said as his taller brother stepped up to the booth and leaned into the man's face.
"Give the lady what she wants and don't bother her anymore."
The man shrank back and then with a muttering growl turned back to her.
"It's in Presanbur. Presenbur is the town you want."
The tall and well build man smiled and clapped the shopkeeper on the back.
"Now that's a good man." He turned and grinned at her, extending his hand to her.
"Hello, my name is Michale. Would you come to the dance with me in two days? Presanbur is a long hike from here so you might as well stick around a bit and catch your breath. Besides... It would be an honor to go with someone as lovely as yourself!"
Michael meanwhile stood in the background shaking his head. Despite Michale's good looks, everyone he had asked that day had already made a date for the dance.
*It looks like I'm not going...* He thought to himself with some disappointment.
She turned to the dark haired man, affronted by the way he treated the old merchant but also surprised by the way the merchant acted. She cocked her head to the side and looked confused toward the man then she spoke softly,
"Um I'm afraid I can not. I do not wish to wait another moment away from my mission. not when I'm so close." She turned to the merchant and took out a small pouch and handed a few silver coins.
"Thank you for the information” and turned to leave.
Michale was surprised, not that he was rejected but in the manner of which he was rejected.
He took two steps after her, ignoring the man who took the gold with a pouting face as Michale tapped her lightly on the shoulder.
"Excuse me... but what mission? What is it exactly that you do?"
She turned around to the man. "I'm sorry but I can't say. Also you don't know me so it really none of your business. I hope you find someone to take."
She stood on her tippy toes and brushed a gentle touch of her lips to his cheek lightly. Then nodded to the merchant who looked stunned and turned away.
"Good day gentlemen." She said as her boots clicked softly on the pavement.
Michale blushed from his toes to the tip of his head. He followed after her and ran in front of her path.
"A name, cruel beautiful snow-maiden. Please. That I may remember you till these mountains fade from memory."
Michael slapped his forehead. His brother was acting like a total fool. What made this girl so different?
Than Michael smiled, looking up and following after them. Did Michale have his first crush?
Michael's smile dimmed as the thought struck home.
Was there any future for Michale if he did find someone? And what of himself?
He sighed, lowering his head and continuing to follow them, now hoping that Michael would not succeed.
She stopped and looked at the man in front of her a annoyed expression showed on her face as her eyes met his her expression softened at the sincerity she saw in his eyes. She sighed
"Adel is the name I will leave you with. If you ever see me again you may call me Adel,but I doubt you ever will."
She quickly side stepped Michale and continued to walk away. As she walked away she thought of what awaited her in Presenbur.
Michale watched her go, wondering why he had such a sinking feeling as she disappeared into the crowd.
Michael walked over and put his hand on his taller brother's shoulder. "It's alright. Don't worry about it. The dance isn't that big a deal anyways."
Michale looked over and smiled sadly at his brother. "Maybe next year."
"Yeah... next year." Michael said, forcing a smile as they turned and walked home.
As she made her way to the edge of town the snow started to come down harder she couldn't see the path any longer *It looks like I'm going to have to stay.* She sighed pulling her hood closer as a sharp crisp wind blew a cross her face looks like I'll be staying a night or two. She turned around and started back towards town. After making her way threw the blinding snow. She saw lights up ahead and push her way through the icy wind and snow. She knocked on the Pine Wood Inn door.Rustling was heard inside and the door opened.
A large and jolly man opened the door, his double chin jiggling as he bobbed his head in welcome and his little mouth grinned pearly white. His vest-coat looked like it could not take much more strain.
"Welcome to the pine in young lady! Please come in!"
She forced a smile on her face "I was in... in..."
But she never finished what she was going to say as she stepped forward to enter the inn. Her vision went blurry, then nothing.
Everything went black.
Her legs gave out from under her and she fell forward not caring what she fell on.
The large man tried to catch her before she hit the floor but his arms were not swift enough.
However a young lad with bright head managed to dash from behind the welcoming desk and catch her.
He looked up at the chubby one and then down at the girl.
"What happened to her, dad?"
The chubby man shook his head. "I don't know. Better put her in one of the rooms and call eh doctor. And fetch your mother. It's not proper that a man should tend to a maid."
The boy, perhaps 14 at most, lifted the young woman with some trouble and did as his father instructed, leaving her with his mother. A shapely and slightly plump woman with sparkling eyes.
The woman put her into dry new clothes and into bed near a lit fireplace. She stayed by her side, awaiting her awakening.
Adel felt warmth seeping into her skin. Except when she opened up eyes it was dark she started to shiver she quietly got out of a hole in the floor. She silently went to the front door and pushed it opened the door she saw blood. Blood was everywhere she saw bodies lying a foot away. she was frightened she look down at herself and saw blood cover her hands and clothing.
Her eyes snapped opened. Her eye sight was blurry as she saw a figure coming near were she laid.Adel lashed out and rolled of the bed and crawled into a corner in the room like she use to do when she was a child. As she sat there blinking her vision started to clear she look up to see a round older women her eyes widened. She quickly stood up "I'm very sorry". She bowed her head .
"It's alright, dearie." The old woman said, kneeling next to her. "Fever's cause us to see strange things in our sleep. And it's a wonder that you don't have pneumonia considering how frozen you where when you came to our door."
She helped her back to the bed and sat Adel down on it.
"There you go sweetie. Now, can I get you some soup? Some hot cider perchance?"
Adel smiled softly "some cider would be lovely thank you. I am very sorry."
Adel averted her gaze to the floor. Adel went to speak but hesitated then lightly shook her head then look up "How long have I been a sleep for? Were are my things?" she spoke softly.
"You've been here since yesterday evening." The woman said kindly as she put a kettle of cider over the fire in the fireplace. "Your things are at the foot of the bed but your cloths are being washed and are in the basement." The woman informed her with a kind old smile, asking no questions of the poor girl.
"Thank you so much for your hospitality" Adel smiled. "I hope you don't find my question rude,but why be so gracious to someone you don't even know. I mean I could be a horrible criminal aren't you afraid that I could hurt you." As she said this her beautiful emerald green eyes glittered in the sunlight that was shining through the window.
"It's not likely a horrible criminal is a half-frozen young lady stopping by an inn for the night." The old woman said, pouring the now hot cider into a mug and handing it to her.
"Besides... we could have taken your money or done as we wished with your things, but we didn't."
The woman gave her a kind wrinkled smile. "Humanity isn't as bad as all that. I like to believe in my fellow man... or woman in this case."
Adel smiled gratefully as she took the hot cup of cider. She gently blew on it then took a sip. She sighed softly as she felt the warm liquid spreading through her body. "You are right sometimes I forget that there are still some decent people out there." I ... *Adel shook her head she should'nt reveal to much to these nice people.* "Anyway thank you again. By the way how bad was the storm last night?"Adel asked curiously.
"You mean yesterday. After all you were asleep for over a day." The old woman reminded her. "All the ways off the mountain are completely snowed over. You may have to stay for a week... Now if you will excuse me."
The woman stood and walked to the door. "We are having our annual dance here at the hotel. Everyone is coming... perhaps you can find yourself a date before then?"
The woman grinned as she added. "A pretty girl like you should have no trouble at all catching a handsome man."
Adel's face grows warm and her cheeks start to turn rosy at the in keepers wife last comment.
" Umm thank you but I don't think i will be going."
"Oh by the way Mrs. what is your name?"
" You can call me Adel." Adel smiled kindly hoping the change of subject wasn't to obvious to the inn keepers wife.
"My name is Mary." The old woman said with a wrinkly grin. "And Adel is such a sweet name. A pity you won't come to the dance. There's not much else one can do around these parts. Now if you excuse me." She nodded to her and slipped from the room to go back about her duties.
Adel went to the bed and wrapped her cloak around herself. She looked to the fireplace and saw the fire dieing out. She quickly walked over to the fireplace and started to throw wood into the fire to keep the room from growing cold. As she put the wood into the fire she wondered if she should go to the dance. Satisfied with the fire burning brightly and feeling the warmth slowly filling the roomshe steped back and made her decision to go to the dance.Hopefully she could meet that man again Now what was his name she shook her head dosen't matter first she needed to go shopping but first I'll need my clothes.Adel wrapped her cloak tighly around her and left her room to find Mary and ask about when her clothes might be done. She gently shuts the door behind her as she leaves.
Adel went to the bed and wrapped her cloak around herself. She looked to the fireplace and saw the fire dieing out so she quickly walked over to the fireplace and started to throw wood into the fire to keep the room from growing cold.
As she put the wood into the fire she wondered if she should go to the dance.
Satisfied with the fire burning brightly and feeling the warmth slowly filling the room Adel stepped back and made her decision to go to the dance.Hopefully she could meet that man again.
*Now what was his name?*
She shook her head as she realized it didn't matter. First she needed to go shopping
*I'll need my clothes* She thought. Adel wrapped her cloak tightly around her and left her room to find Mary and ask about when her clothes might be done. She gently shut the door behind her as she left.
Michale sat outside on a large stone he had brushed off. The snow was very very deep but the brother's had moved around worse before...
He didn't feel cold, in fact he was not even thinking of the snow. Michale's mind wandered as did his gaze as he looked out over the trees down the mountain and the little village there. He wondered about the world beyond and what people were doing in other cities.
He saw smoke rising from chimneys and smiled. They were preparing for the dance...
But the smoke also triggered something in his mind... something-
"Michale! Can you give me a hand?" Michael called, hauling a bunch of wood. Far more than he could carry.
Michale laughed and bounded into the snow. "You didn't have to cut that much!" Michale said as he took some off the top and helped his brother revive their dying fire.
"We're going to the dance." Michale said to the more slender brother.
"But you didn't find anyone." Michael pointed out.
"Doesn't matter. I'm going anyways. And you might as well come along."
Michael smiled and nodded. "Then I better find my clean shirt!"
"Find me one while you're at it." Michale called after his quickly retreating brother.
Adel wrapped her cloak aroud her and made her way to the staircase.
Adel saw a girl coming up thestaircase. *Well might as well ask if she knows were Mrs.Mary is. "Umm excuse me do you know were the inn keeper's wife is."Adel asked. The child held three fingers and motioned to the mouth. "Are you hungry?"Adel asked. The girl shook her head no,and held three fingers and motioned to her mouth then pointed down stairs then pointed at Adel. Adel sighed "Could you please show me were she is. The girl looked at Adel for a momentthen nodded then started back down the staircase. Adel followed the little girl to a pair of doubled doors.The girl took Adel's hand and push opened the door.Ther were cheifs cooks and servers everwere.The girl weaved herself and Adelthrough the kitchen. In a small corner Adel saw Mrs. Mary talking to one of the cheifs. Adel turned to the girl and smiled thankyou. The litle girl nodded to Adel and left with a small smile on her face. Adel turned and walked over to Mrs.Mary.
"Ah! There you are sweety!" The woman said with a grin. "Oh my! I forgot your things were still near where they were drying in the basement by the big stone fireplace! Come with me!"
The old woman led her to the room and handed her the clothes which were folded and sitting near the fireplace.
"There you are. I completely forgot to bring them to you."
"There is no need to worry Mrs.Mary"
"I appreciate all that you have done for me."
"You have been so kind and I feel indebted to you.
"I would like to ask you, If I could help out for as long as I'm staying here."
Adel saw Mrs.mary about to object her offer.
"Please accept my request I feel helpless sitting and ,doing nothing as, I see people scrabbling around setting up for the dance. Adel waited patiently for Mrs.Mary's answer.
"Why aren't you a sweet thing?" The woman said with a warm smile. "Well get changed and I will have you put up the fur and holly wreaths. After that there will be plenty for busy hands to do."
The woman patted Adel on the arm. "A pity you won't be able to stay. We're having quite a feast and the people around here rarely get to see anyone from beyond the mountain except for this night."
Adel smiled.
"Well I was wondering if it would be a inconvenience if I stayed for the dance,because if it will be I will be on my way."
"Not to be disrespectful" when she saw Mrs.Mary about to say something,"but I'm sure it is difficult to add another guest on such short notice."
"I mean I know you invited me but"...Adel was interrupted by the inn keeper as he came up to his wife.
"Don't be silly m-dear!" The innkeeper said with a jolly jiggly laugh. "This isn't a 'only come if invited' dance! The whole mountain is invited! Anyone on the mountain is invited! And you're here anyways! So why not dance!"
"Thank you."
"Although I'm afraid I don't have a dress or the money to buy one."
I'm afraid I gave most of it for information.
If I thought I would been staying longer I would have kept more for things I would need.
Adel gasped;I don't mean I don't have the money for my room.
Please wait here while go and get it.
A couple minutes later Adel came back down and gave a pouch half full of coins.
I do hope this will cover everything.
Adel waited for the inn keepers reply.
When she handed them the money the innkeeper's wife placed a dress in her hands.
"This should be about the right size! Come come come! Let's go try it on and fix up your hair!"
The woman allowed
for no argument as she guided her into a changing room and chatted merrily about the upcoming dance.
"There! See! Don't you look lovely deary?" She said as she gestured toward a full length mirror."
Adel breath caught in her throat the dress was breath taking.
"Oh Mary it's beautiful" as she looked into the mirror.
It was a beautiful satin dress that clung to her figure nicely.It had long sleeves to keep her arms warm shall she decided to get some fresh air later on.It was a simple dress but, to Adel it was the best dress she seen. Adel turned to her "thank you it's the most amazing dress I've seen."
Adel hugged Mary and then excused herself
The people began arriving for the dance. Some bringing food, others bringing instruments, others bringing their children. There was just over 100 in the large hotel's main floor when they had all arrived.
Michael and Michale came later than most as they lived furthest up the mountain. Both were dressed in fair clothes with fur-coats they had made from their own game.
The one nudged the other and the smaller of the two walked over to the girl they had spoken to the night before, a blush in his cheeks as he began to chat abut the weather and the dance which was about to start.
Michale brushed his black locks back as he strode out into the crowd. He caught his breath as he saw her... the girl from earlier.
She was stunning in her dance gown. Simple though it was, the elegance of the design fitted her perfectly.
He walked up to her and smiled as he said boldly, "So you changed your mind?"
Adel started.
"Oh it's you from the market."
"Yes I did change my mind."
"If you will excuse me" Adel turned and walked away.
*Now to go find out I can help out with,Adel made her way to the kitchen in search of Mary.
"Hey! Wait a minute!" Michale said, catching her arm and accidentally pulling her to him.
He took a step back out of politeness and opened his mouth to speak as the music started.
Michale grinned and took her other hand. "You can't leave just as the dance has started! That would be rude. Please let me have this first dance!" He said as he pulled her onto the dance floor with him.
She cocked her head and stared into his eyes.
His eyes reminded her of the Northern lights.
She felt like as if she was being drawn into the depths of his eyes.
She found her self nodding her consent.
He led her out on the dance floor and she curtsied.
Michale bowed- t was nothing elegant but every movement he made was completely honest. He was a man with no secrets in every action he displayed this.
He took her in his arms and began dancing. Michale was not graceful, nor smooth... but he was there supporting her and being there for her the whole time.
And he never took his eyes off hers as he smiled with such warmth that it would melt the snow outside.
"You look pretty in a dress. I wouldn't look half as pretty- as I am a guy." Michale said openly.
Adel laughed softly at Michale "Thank you" she said softly.
Well he isn't the most elegant in dancing or his words being smooth,but she like that.
He was down to earth much better then others she met.
"So... you like my suit? I washed it especially for the dance." He said with a grin.
Adel laughed into Michale's shoulder.
After a moment she composed herself.
Yes I like it very much.
It suits you very well.
After she said this she saw other stop and start to clap.
Adel pulled away "Thank you for the dance ,but I must go now."
"Go?" Michale said like a puppy who had just been beaten. "But that was only one dance! You... didn't come with someone else did you?" He asked, his tone turning fearful.
"Oh no it isn't that Adel exclaimed."
"I have offered to help out tonight."
Adel smiled softly and curtsied and quickly made her way to the kitchens,before he could stop her again.
Michale frowned, then slowly smile as he followed her and stopped just outside the big kitchen. Leaning in the door watching the hustle and the bustle...
And the one pretty girl that caught his eye.
Adel went to Mary.
Adel apologized to Mary for being a bit late.
Mary smiled at Adel and gave her a list of things to do.
Adel noticed Michale and gave him a small smile and waved then went to accomplish her tasks.
Michale smiled as he watched her work, and suddenly found a hand on his shoulder as his brother walked up beside him.
"So... she came. But stalking her is hardly the way to get her attention." Michael stated with a chuckle. "Come on. The foods been served. Eat a little bit and wait for her to return."
Michale rolled his eyes and shook his head. "Fine... but if she leaves before I can talk to her I blame you." He laughed, walking out to the food tables with his brother.
Adel breathed a sigh of relief as she finished up her last task on her list.
*Now to go find Mary.*
Adel set out to the kitchen.
Once she got there she scanned all the faces until she found the one she was looking for.
Adel made her way to Mary "Um I've finished all the tasks."
"IS there anything else you need done?"
"Oh aren't you a sweet thing!" The old woman said with a jiggle in her cheeks. "I can handle it from here, deary! It looks like the mysterious mister Michale has his eye on you." The woman said, leaning closer. "While he and his brother's names are so very much alike... he is definitely
the more handsome of the two! You two would make a fine pair!"
She gave her a nudge out into the main party area, but Michale wasn't right there were he was-
But he was in site.
"Go get your man, deary!" The inn-keeprs wife said with a giggle.
Adel face went beat red "Mary what are you talking about?
"He is only looking for a date tonight."
"Besides I wont be staying very long in town."
"I".. Adel glanced at Michale then quickly looked away "think it would be wise to stay away."
"Right?" Adel looked at Mary.
"Dearie, don't you know you won't get anywhere in life if you don't take chances? Go and have a good time!" She said, shoving her further out. "You're only young once!"
Adel laughed at Mary
leaned down and kissed her cheek Thank you.
Adel made her way to the refreshment table.
Michael glanced at his brother and smiled.
"It looks like she's coming to you now." He told his taller handsomer brother.
She was right behind Michale when he turned around... a large roll and some cheese sticking out of his mouth.
He quickly chewed off a big bite and swallowed it, hiding the rest behind his back.
"Yioyuf chrm bhhk-" He began, then swallowed the rest. "Um... hi!"
Adel covered her mouth with her hand and snickered at Michale.
Adel composed herself "Hello" Adel smiled sweetly.
"Hi." He said again only to receive an elbow from his brother.
"Dance with her you idiot." he chuckled.
"Oh yeah! Let's dance!" He said holding his hands out to her... covered in bread and cheese.
"Um..." He wiped his hands on the table cloth and then held them out to her again. "Shall we dance?"
"Yes, I would be honored."
Adel put her hand in Michale's
Then he escorted her out on the dance floor.
He smiled as they glided out onto the dance floor. He was surprisingly more graceful than before... but there was something different in his eyes as they moved together.
"You know... You were my first kiss." He told her, his heart moving with the now much more flowing music.
Adel cheeks turned pink.
"Oh " Adel said as her eyes widened.
Adel couldn't think of what to say ,so she laid her head against Michale's shoulder.
He grinned at her as they danced, then after a moment of silence he dared to ask.
"So, I suppose you've kissed other guys, right?"
"Yes I have kissed others,but it's my code to only kiss on the cheek."
"You probably think I'm silly?"
Adel looked up at Michale.
"Oh." Michale said with some disappointment before he said with a shrug. "Well eventually you have to go further than kissing on the cheek. Maybe we could-"
Adel laughed this time she didn't try to hide it.
"I do like you but lets not jump into anything until we get to know one another."
"Until I'm done with what I need to do,can we just enjoy the time we have?"
"Right... of course." Michale said and then waited through another moment of odd silence.
"Um.... nice... weather we're having? Lots of snow... which is nice... and white."
Adel laughed "Very original."
"You are so weird."
"Did you know that?"
Michale chuckled as he brushed his free hand through his hair.
"Well... there really isn't much to talk about out here. Nothing but nature in every direction. Most stories come from outside the mountain."
"Oh I see"
"What I mean is"..
Adel trailed off “Could we go get some air?"
Adel looked up into his eyes.
" Please" she whispered.
"Sure... just keep your cloak closed tightly. The snow is pretty thick." He said as he led her off of the dance floor and to an upper hallway that had a few balcony windows.
"Here you go! Snow and cold just for you." He said with a wink, opening one just enough for her if she wanted them to go outside.
As they left the upper hallway.
Adel reached for her cloak and ,wrapped it around her shoulders.
"Thank you you are very kind." Adel turned away to look up at the sky.
"Isn't it beautiful?" Adel asked Michale
He looked up and smiled as some clouds parted and he could see snow falling and stars twinkling at the same time.
"Yeah... It seems like this place is always beautiful." His eyes drifted down to her and rested on her beautiful face.
"On nights like this... it's almost like the whole world is at peace."
"Yes I have to agree."
"I bet you always, feel that way though."
"I wonder don't you ever want to leave and experience new things ."
Adel look over at Michale then back to the winterly sky.
"Sometimes... Especially at the thought of an adventure." Michale said with a grin. "But Michael can't really live without me. He wouldn't even come tonight if I didn't." He pointed out.
"Oh"
"Is your brother shy ?"
"How come?"
"I mean you are like the complete opposite."
Adel's eyes widened.
"I meant no offense."
"I'm sorry." Adel cast her eyes away from Michale's.
"Yeah he's a bit shy." Michale laughed out loud. "But he has a little bit of separation anxiety... He's the only family I have and I am the only family he has in the whole world. Our parents died when we were little." He explained to her seriously. "I don't remember it, but ever since then Michael's been very protective."
Adel's eyes grew sad her heart started to hurt.
" I know how you feel she sighed.""
I lost my parents when I was young as well."
Adel gave her fake smile." I think we should go back in side."
Adel quickly turned to go inside,she didn't want to think about this right now.
Michale took her hand and walked back inside, smiling at her. "
The innkeepers wife came up to them. "Michale- we need you to fix the stove again."
He chuckled and took off his shawl-cape. "Hold onto this for me, duty calls." he said with a smile.
"Umm.. alright "Adel said.
She saw him start to turn away.
"Wait you are going to come back?"
Adel's cheeks started to turn pink and averted her eyes past his shoulder.
He tossed his head, his midnight black feathery hair flowing through the air as he shot her a grin.
"Of course! I have to get my cape after all!" He said, waving to her as he disappeared around the corner.
Adel just laughed "off with you now."
" So you can return quickly back to me."
Adel quickly swept past him to the ladies room.
Why did I say that?"
Adel smiled" Oh well" and left the ladies room.
Michael looked around for his brother as his own 'date' had left. He found him working in the kitchen... or should have been working.
"Michale?" Michael said, kneeling beside the man.
Michale had finished working on the furnace and his eyes were lost in the fire... They were much darker than before.
"Michale... Michale snap out of it!" Michael hissed, but got no response.
He glance around and once he was sure they were alone he grabbed his brother and left out the back door.
Michael was going to get his brother home before anything happened!
Adel stood like a statue. *I'm a fool.*
*How could I be so oblivious he was just being a gentleman.*
Adel felt something wet running down her face.
She raised her hand up to touch her face she was crying.
Adel quickly ran through the crowd of people as she reached the staircase she paused looked back towards the crowd hoping to see Michale's face but all she saw were couples leaving the inn.
She saw Mary and quickly ran up to her room.
She shut and locked her door and cried her self to sleep something she hadn't done since that night.
She fell into a deep sleep. Dreams full of nothing but darkness
Fire... screams.... people and homes burning.
Michale sat up, opening his eyes and breathing hard.
He was... back in bed?
Michale glanced around and noticed it was already late in the morning and he was dressed in casual clothes. He still felt a little... a little off.
Slowly he stood and walked to the kitchen where his brother was working on breakfast.
"What... what happened last night?" He asked.
"You fell asleep by the fire in the kitchen." Michael said, turning and giving him a grin. "Come on now and eat your breakfast."
Michale nodded, knowing he had forgotten something important but it refused to come to mind as he sat down and ate without another word.
Michael looked at Michale with motherly worry. It wasn't like him to be so quiet.
Adel eyes snapped open remembering the past.
*Why now?*
Suddenly Adel heard a knock on the door.
Adel took a deep breath and forced her body to move.
Adel walked shakily to her door to find Mary on the other side.
Adel gave her a tired smile. "How can I help you Mrs.Mary?"
"I bropught you some breakfast deary." The woman said, walking into the room and setting the tray down. "That was quite a party last night... too bad poor Michale took ill so suddenly." She said with a sigh. "I saw you two dancing, you make quite a pair oh ho!"
"I don't think so", Adel said and went to the bed and, grabbed her stuff and quickly went to bathroom to change. When Adel came out Mrs.Mary was gone. Adel felt bad for being rude she sighed" I'll have to apologize before I leave" Adel looked in the mirror and saw Michale's jacket laying on the bed. She turned and glared at it,then turned away . *why didn't he just tell me that he wasn't feeling well?* *I would of understand* Adel sighed. Then she thought of something *What if his brother was just covering for him* Adel growled Then a plan formed and grinned eerily. "Well living up oh were was it?" "Never mind I'll just ask." Adel grabbed the jacket and walked out her door to find Mrs.Mary.
Marry turned as Adel asked her where Michale lived.
"Well it's not a place that can be found easily." The woman replied. "Follow the path up the mountain and when you get to three fur-trees entwined in each other take the path to the left. It goes along a rather winding way through the woods and the trees are thick. The path is very hard to see. But within the woods in the shadow of a grand cliff their log cabin is. Be very careful dear, they are hunters so there will be traps up there." She pointed out. "And they always keep a fire going in their chimney, not that you can see the chimney smoke through the trees."
"After Adel got her things together she came down to find Mary. Adel finally found her in the kitchen.
"Mrs. Mary I'm glade I caught you I wanted to give this to you personally ,and to thank you for everything you have done for me." Adel handed a small pouch, then Adel made a quick decision and hugged Mary.
Then she quickly left to continue her with her plan a smirk appeared on her lips,as she thought *this should be fun.*
As Adel started up the mountain it was fine. After awhile later agreed with Mary it was a treacherous path, but she managed without to much difficulty. Soon the cabin came into view. Adel took a deep breath and shook what little doubt she had left away and walk up to the door. Her hands trembled as she knocked but quickly, stopped and schooled her features as the door started to open.
Michael walked up to the door and opened it. "Oh, you!" He said. "You were with my brother at the dance last night!"
Inside at the kitchen table, Michale slapped himself hard in the head.
He knew he forgot something important!
Adel gave him a cold smiled.
Is your brother here?
Adel asked in a sweet voice but her eyes were cold as ice.
She waited patiently for him to answer.
Michael was surprised at her coldness and opened his mouth to tel her he wasn't feeling well when Michale stepped up behind him and peeked shyly over his shoulder.
"Hi.... I'm really really sorry." He told her with big puppy-dog eyes. "I was a jerk, I should have kept my word."
"What do you mean???" Michael asked, looking at Michale. "You were sick- I practically had to carry you home."
Adel froze he really was ill Adel kept her expression blank.
"Oh well I just came to return this before I leave and tossed the jacket to Michael's brother then turned to leave.
She was upset with her self *I feel like an idiot and maybe I am. I should have asked and then cast my judgment not the other way around. *
*Well a lesson learn thats what you always told me.*
"Adel!" Michale said, moving to go after her when his brother stopped him.
"Michale," Michael whispered softly. "She's just passing through. Don't get too attached-"
To his younger brother's surprise the older brother stepped back, put on the cape and hurried after Adel who had already disappeared into the wood.
Adel thought she heard her name but kept going. *This was for the best right."
Adel wasn't so sure anymore.
"I should just forget him but his clumsy yet honest actions were just to unforgettable.*
Adel laughed just thinking about it.
Adel stopped and turned around *I have to go back.*
Adel started her way back when she heard a sound and stopped.
Adel eyes widened at what she saw.
Michale charged out into the snow, not wanting to loose her.
The first one he had ever kissed... and there was more. He knew in his heart there was something about this girl that drew him to her. But he didn't know what.
Along the way he began to slow, his hand going to his head as the world began to darken.
"No... not... now." He whispered, collapsing into the snow.
In the forest Adel saw it through the trees.
A shadow... but a shadow that had haunted her her entire life.
And the shadow was coming closer. A pair of eyes looked toward her.
Eyes of darkness and death.
Then the creature saw her and it came at her!
Adel whisked out her sword to stop the attack but the gust from the draithes wings pushed her back.
Adel was forced back and wiped beads of sweat from her head
She noticed the monster getting ready to charge again.
*This things stronger then I thought but, I have to destroy it I won't let it ruin any more peoples lives.*
*This must end today no matter what happens*
As she charged her necklace came untucked from her cloak, but she didn't notice for she saw Micheal's brother.
As she drew her sword, Michael called out to her, "Don't hurt him!" He cried as the draithe dive-bombed right for her.
Adel's sword moved when she turned to Michal's but then she felt a heaviness hit into her Adel was shocked as she looked down and saw Michale.
She just layed there unsure what to do. What going on? So many questions but she couldn't get her mouth to work.
The transformation was so quick that Michael was left in shock.
One minute Michale was mostly a draithe... the next fully human and out cold.
"How...???" He asked, hurrying over and kneeling next to his brother who was collapsed ontop of Adel. He pulled out a little stone made of the same material as Adel's necklace and put it around Michale's neck.
"It's alright now.. everything is alright." he said to calm her and himself down as he lifted his unconscious brother off of her and cradled him in his arms. He glanced at her and softly asked, "Will you help me carry him back to the house?"
"Alright" Adel said with no emotion.
Adel moved like a robot stumbling once in a while
When the cabin came in sight she didn't even notice.
Once they entered the cabin she collapsed to the floor unsure of what to do.
Michael moved to help her but had his arms full with his larger 'brother'
He walked over to the next room and lay Michale down on the bed before he returned to her side.
"Please... please don't tell anyone. They would try to kill him if they knew-"
Adel didn't say anything nor did she acknowledge a word Michale's brother had said.
She just continued to star at the wall.
Michael sighed and then slowly walked into the kitchen to get some hot tea prepared.
He had hoped this day would never come. The fay when his brother was discovered for what he truly was.
Adel slowly made her way yo the bed and stared at Michale.
*I've been such a foul he probably was setting me up from the begging I'm such a fool.*
Slowly she took out a dagger hidden in a belt and raises it over Michaels heart her eyes were like ice.
Adel looked at his features her hand started to tremble and she fell to her knees.
*No I can't I'll wait and bid my time He could have this place surrounded. *
She stood up shakily and put the dagger back in her belt and walked to the far corner so she could keep an eye on the door and the monster in question.
Slowly Michale began to stir from sleep. He blinked a few times and then sat up, blinking a few times as his hand went to his head with a sigh.
"Not again." He muttered under his breath. He looked up and saw her and jumped in surprise.
"Oh! Um... hi! When did you get back?" He said, somewhat embarrassed to see her in his room with him in bed.
Adel said nothing and continued to look at him to see if he was going to attack her.
She heard the door being pushed opened,and sighed in relief as the attention was now no longer focused on her.
Michale glanced up as Michael walked in with the hot tea on trays.
"You blacked out again." Michael said to his brother. "How are you feeling?"
"Dazed still... I didn't know you invited-" He began but Michael's laughter interrupted him.
"That's a funny story. You see I was out in the wood and I kinda ran into her and well she had to carry me back here."
Michale sat up concerned. "Are you alright?" He asked with worry in his eyes and voice.
"I'm fine. Just needed to thaw out, isn't that right Adel?" Michael asked, giving her a hint to play along.
Adel froze for a moment *Oh no think of something oh I got it.*
"Yes all of it's true but every things alright now." Adel laugh came out a little shakily.
Although it worked because it took the attention off her.
Adel ^sighed in relief.^
Although now there's only silence.
She kept her gaze on the two figures not letting her guard down.
"Well you're not going to do anything now but sit here and rest." Michale said, sitting his brother on the bed he was in as he stood. "And I will make you both a hot meal."
After Michale left the room, Michael glanced shyly at Adel.
"I suppose you want an explanation." he said sheepishly
Adel eyes hardened.
"Yes that would be very helpful."
"Why are you protecting a monster like him?"
Michael glanced at he door and began to speak softly.
"Well... I'll tell you our story but you're not going to like it." He said nervously. "Almost ten years ago that monster came and attacked my entire family. He nearly killed me as well- but when he came close the the crystal I had- the crystal Michale even now wears around his neck, the monster transformed into a man and passed out. I moved to kill him, but he seemed so helpless and I was barely 13. "
He stood and began pacing.
"I made him wear that crystal, taught him how to speak and act normal. He... he doesn't remember a thing of being a monster. He's not a monster. I gave him my own name and called him brother. And when he speaks to you he speaks to you as a man. He has lived a good life and been kind to everyone. He takes care of me and I of him. But when the darkness calls him he blacks out and that monster within tries to take over. But I won't let it. I won't loose my brother."
He stopped right in front of where Adel was sitting and kneeled before her.
"He has a kind heart and a good soul! He remembers nothing of that monster! He is a man, not a beast. Please... please don't ever let him find out what he's been turning into. It would kill him if he thought he was hurting me."
Adel stood up and moved towards the bed.
"What do you ask this of me ?"
"People died by his hand and you just want me to let him live"
"Even if what you say is true,what happens if gets away?"
"All the innocent blood he spills we be on your continuance."
"How long do you think until someone finds out? or until he finds out.
"What will you do then?"
Adel looked him in the eye awaiting his answer.
Michael looked nervous and then spoke.
"We're safe here on the mountain. The stone here- like the crystal you are wearing there, remove the dark power. He's as much a victim to that monster as anyone the monster has killed." Michael insisted.
"And... Well I was hoping by staying up here on the mountain I could keep it secret."
Adel didn't reply she kept quiet.
*What am I to do ?*
*I can't let my families injustice go can I?*
*NO!*
*I will however bid my time*
*Hmm how to go about it?*
finally Adel spoke "For now I will let him leave,but I'm going to keep an eye on him."
Michael looked relieved.
"You will see I'm telling the truth." He said with a smile.
"The truth about what?" Michale said, coming in with their hot tea ready.
"Um... about... the dance.... last night." Michael said, trying to cover up the conversation
"Well why don't you talk about the dance ,and I'll just go cook up some breakfast."
Michale looked up in confusion as she slipped out and into the kitchen.
"She's making breakfast?" He asked.
Michael looked a little worried. "Yeah... about that.... she might be staying."
"What?!" Michale said in shock. "A woman... staying here? What wou-"
"Michale... you've been blacking out a lot more of late." Michael said. "I thought we could use the extra help. And besides I think you two kinda hit it off-"
"All the more reason!" Michale hissed. "What would they say if they found out I brought my date home with me and we were living together!"
Adel paused outside the door as she listened Adel smirked. *Oh honestly!* Adel continued on her way to the kitchen.
When she got there it was a mess.
Adel rolled up her sleeves and got started.
Forty-five minutes later breakfast was almost ready so she decided to go get the two man to come and eat.
Adel knocked on the door.
"Breakfast is ready come down before it gets cold."
Then turned and went back to get the table and food set up while she waited for them.
Michael clapped his brother on the shoulder. "Try to act like a gentleman." He practically pleaded.
Both stepped from the room and stopped in the entryway with shock on their faces.
"It's.... clean!" They both said, Michael with genuine surprise and gratefulness... Michale was a bit more disturbed by the sight.
"You can't seriously expect me to live like-"
"Michale.... like a 'gentleman." Michael interrupted his brother as he walked over to the table and pulled back a chair for her.
"Thank you for preparing this meal, it looks delicious."
Michale walked over and took a seat, picking up one of the food dishes and smelling it suspiciously.
Adel smiled and sat down and waited till the other two man sat down.
She watched Michale's reaction closely.
Adel's eye twitched for a moment then cleared her throat "Is there something wrong with the food?"
Adel asked Michale trying to keep the irritation out of her voice.
Michale glanced at his brother, then back at her.
"No... I'm just not used to it being on a clean plate." he said, moving to eat when Michael cleared his throat.
His brother indicated toward the fork and biting back a grumble, Michale took a small bite.
His face instantly lit up with pleasant surprise as Michael turned to speak with Adel.
"So you are staying on the mountain for the winter? For the paths to clear?" He said, giving her an excuse.
"If it wouldn't be to much of a bother."
" I would gladly accept the offer and I can cook and clean as payment if it's alright."
Adel looked at the two man awaiting there answer.
"Why don't you stick to cooking and leave-" Michale began when his brother shot him a look. "What?"
"It would be nice to have a clean cabin now and then." Michael argued.
"What's so nice about it? It's a cabin in the woods, not some palace." Michale insisted. "I can't walk around in my own home with my own boots during the muddy thawing season?"
Michael sighed and shook his head. "Please do forgive my brother, but he is far too comfortable with the bachelor way of living."
"And you have your eye set on a pretty girl and want to conform." Michale countered with a grin.
"Like you don't?" Michael shot back.
The larger man was suddenly very interested in eating his food.
Adel's eye brow rose* these two are very err interesting I think they forgot I'm even here.*
Adel cleared her throat waiting for them to put there attention on her.
Michael was grateful that his brother was at least using some of the table manners he taught him before he turned and smiled at Adel.
"So... you like hunting?" He asked, for both he and Michale were hunters and he was looking for some common ground.
Adel smiled "I'm alright at hunting."
"One must learn to survive right?" she asked.
"That's good... cause we're trappers ourselves." Michale said, picking up his food with his hand and shoving it in his mouth.
Michael sighed. He never did manage to make a gentleman out of his brother.
Adel clinch her teeth at Michale's manners.
*I think I going to be sick.*
Adel quickly stood up and took her things to the kitchen.
She came back in after quickly calming down her stomach.
" Would you like any more before I put up the food?"
Adel asked trying to keep her voice normal.
"Yeah, go get me some more meat and some desert while you are at it-" Michale began when his brother cleared his throat pointedly.
"Whaaaat?" Michale asked with his mouth full.
Adel didn't say a word just quickly took his plate and went back into the kitchen *Well of all the" Arg I'll show him he'll start acting like a gentleman when I get through with him Adel thought as a evil smile spread across her face as a wicked idea came to her. Adel dumped some more food on his plate and placed a light smile upon her face and walk back into the room.
She slowly brought it over then squashed on top of his head. "Oh" Adel fake gasped "Oops I'm sorry it must of slipped let me just go get you some more." Adel reached for the plate then stopped.
"What am I thinking I'm sure you would like to get cleaned up."
Then Adel quickly went over to Micheal "Could you show me were I'll be staying while your brother gets himself cleaned up?" Adel smiled sweetly and waited for the brothers reply.
MIchale frowned, then licked his face with a smile.
"That dame can sure cook-ow!!!" He said as his brother thwaped him in the back of the head.
Michael stood and offered Adel his arm. "There is... one room we have here that is unused. But please leave everything in it untouched. It was my parents room." He said softly, leading her down the hall.
Michale watched them go and then with his hand wiped his face and stuck the food in his mouth with a smile.
"Oh are you sure?"
"I could sleep on the couch? Adel offered
"It really don't matter I have slept on worse"
Adel chewed on her lip nervously awaiting Michaels answer.
"No. I insist." Michael said, slowly opening the door to the master bedroom. "If you are to live with us you must live in a proper room. And I trust you with that which is inside."
Adel smiled softly and hugged Micheal then kissed his cheek gently
"Thank you very much."
Then went into the room and closed it softly behind her.
Adel lite a candle and looked at the room.
It was beautiful not in a fancy way,but it made you feel warm and welcomed.
Adel took her cloak off and her weapons off and made her way towards the bed.
It certainly was big she gently pulled the wool blankets down and crawled on the bed and snuggled under the blankets and fell asleep.
Michael came out and saw Michale happily eating the mess and hit him again over the head.
"This is my own house can't I eat in peace-" Michale began when Michael pointed his finger in his face.
"Now that there is a lady living here I am going to teach you proper manners!"
"BUT-"
"NO BUTS!" Michael insisted. "And we are going to practice all night if needs be!"
So that night Michael drilled and drilled his larger brother until they both fell asleep at the table.
Adel awoke she could tell it was barley after dawn,
She quietly went towards the kitchen and saw both brothers sleeping at the table.
Adel just shook her head and mumbled "men" softly and quietly went back up to the room grabbed her cloak and weapons then quietly left the cabin for a morning walk.
A few hours later she quietly entered the house and saw the two men still sleeping.
*Well I guess I'll get started on breakfast.*
Then quietly as she could she started to make breakfast.
She heard soft groans coming from the two men, but did not turn around just continued with her cooking.
The moans began to shift to something akin to growls. She heard a gasp and then Michael's soft voice.
"Michale... Michale calm down... snap out of it Michale... no don't get up. Michale."
She could hear the worry in Michael's voice but he kept his tones soft and soothing.
The growls sounded less and less human.
Adel's eyes widened and quickly went to check on the two brothers to see what was going on.
As Adel entered she gasped at what she saw.
Then immediately started over toward the brothers a hand on the hilt of her sword Adel shouted
"STOP!"
At her loud and harsh word, Michale lifted his head, his eyes had lost all white and were pitch black and his skin was turning ashen. Her words sparked a fire in his gaze.
"NO!" Michael said but Michale moved swiftly from his brother's side as though to attack her, but barely 3 yards away Michale suddenly and violently reverted back to human form and passed out on the floor.
"Strange... he did that yesterday as well when he came near you. What power do you have over him?" Michael asked in wonder as he looked at the unconscious form of his brother on the floor.
Adel looked shocked as she looked from Micheal to Michale
She just shook her head and turned around and ran into the room she was staying in and locked the door.
*Whats wrong with me?*
*why did I react that way?*
* Why did I yell instead of just attacking that monster.*
She heard a little nagging voice inside her head" you know why" it whispered softly, but she shook it away. Then Adel crawled back underneath the blankets and curled into a ball to try and think.
Michael sighed and then, as usual, hefted his much larger brother and carried him into their bedroom. He lay him in his own bed and tucked him in before closing the door behind him.
Then Michael walked over to Adel's door and knocked lightly.
"Miss Adel? Are you alright?" He asked with genuine concern.
Adel didn't answer her throat felt dry she just stayed silent.
She just couldn't come up with answers to her questions.
Slowly her eyelids started to get heavy and she drifted off to sleep.
*I really should of stayed in bed* was her last thought.
Knowing that she wasn't hurt physically, Michale decided to give her space and went out to the kitchen to finish making the breakfast she started.
Soon the whole house was smelling good.
Michale awoke and stretched, completely unaware of the earlier event although he did not remember going to bed.
He got up and sauntered into the living room/dining room without a care and flopped down. "It smells good Michael!"
"It- It will be done soon Michale!" Michael said, caught off guard by his brother's voice. He had half expected Adel.
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