Honey You're A Shipwreck, With Your Heart Of Stone

Cyren Nielsen | Hellhound


Cyren relaxed slightly as Marlee promised to be careful with the whole Hamish sting. And in case things went sideways- Cyren would be around to help Marlee protect herself. Though after her encounter with the fae last night, she doubted Marlee would need help protecting herself. Leaning back on her friends bed she cocked a glance towards her as Marlee gently teased her. "Do you even know where the library is?" The Hellhound, snorting indignantly sat up a little straighter. "I most certainly do! They have the best little nooks and crannies to skip class." She added, a small smile touching down on her lips. Marlee seemed to know well how to distract her. “You think he’s a reptile? Do you really want to get books out then? Most of them will have pictures and you can’t stand snakes,” She nodded, her brow creasing in thought. "It's the most concrete evidence I have at this point anyway. And I have to make a semi-educated guess." She stated with a little shrug. Honestly, she had no idea. Just little bits of a puzzle. The way he had been more than amused when Cyren suggested he was some sort of fluffy bunny. As if she couldn't be further off base. And then of course the whole eating thing.

Greg and Nix had similar eating habits, and Greg had mentioned once that most reptilian supernatural creatures didn't need to eat a lot. In fact, most of them didn't. "And I hate wild snakes. Finn's always gonna be Finn. Even if I'm wrong and it turns out he's some obscure species of shifting spider I'd still like him." She said fondly, a little smile gracing her lips before disappearing. "Because... How could I not?" Her tone grew a little more somber as Cyren sighed. "You and Finn and Dan are really the only ones who aren't totally freaked out by what I am. I can't do that to Finn. Not when I know how shitty it feels." Cyren murmured wisely, with a little shake of her head. No matter what Finn was, she'd accept it. Just the way he'd accepted her. Her gaze flickered back to Marlee, in time to take in her reaction to the news that Community soldiers were here. She didn't seem to react strongly one way or the other, perhaps a little hesitant. Unlike Cyren. The brunette didn't feel... Comfortable with them around. Some strangers looming about and policing the campus? But... They were there to keep everyone safe she supposed.

“No, I didn’t know that. But we should head out, find where everyone else is.” At once Cyren's smile faded into something tight, worried, angry. Here she could at least pretend like the whole world hadn't collapsed about her head, leaving her gasping and drowning in her own emotions that threatened to overtake her mind. But, she couldn't stay here. It wouldn't be healthy and it would only lead for everyone else to become even more worried about her well being. So she just signed and nodded. "Alright. Might as well try to get something to eat." Cyren agreed getting to her feet as Marlee looped her arm through Cyren's. Marlee more or less led the pair out of her dorm and towards the student's dining hall. While Marlee grabbed cereal, Cyren picked a table close enough to an exit that if she needed it- she could dash. Get the hell out of dodge and find someplace to collect herself. By the time that Marlee got back, she noted a few unfamiliar faces walking around. Community. It made her uneasy, though she did her best not to show this. They were supposedly after all, there to help. And Cyren had to accept their presence here. If it was keeping the school open it was worth the Community in their walls.

By the time that Marlee had come back, and taken a few bites of her breakfast, the Headmaster made his appearance. Unlike Marlee, Cyren sat forward her eyes trained intently, listening to what he had to say. She wish she hadn't. Every word about Greg, about the attack felt like a personal failure. Felt like knives pushing themselves into her veins. Opened up a whole new can of grief and anger. Made it real. “This attack only occurred because the Rebels wanted to send a message to our communities, they wanted to appear stronger to all our families in hopes they would receive more soldiers. They aren’t strong, they attacked a school where young innocent children learn. That isn’t strength, strength is what we showed them. Strength is protecting each other, helping someone when they need it the most and that is actually what we did that awful night. But we’re still in the dark when it comes to the Rebellion, which is why the Community leaders decided it was best if we had extra security on the grounds. You will be seeing guards but they are only here to keep us safe, for when the Rebels decide to-" She heard enough. Cyren got to her feet quietly, and leaning forward murmured to her friend, "I'm not... I can't listen to this right now."

It was better to be honest, and just admit hearing this was just too hard. Made her want to just hunt down the Rebellion on her own. A few other kids had slipped out during the speech. What was one more? Besides, he sounded mostly done. And someone would fill her in on what happened. She got to her feet, quietly exiting the dining room, pausing in the hall. She had no idea where to go. She had heard the abilities room was off limits as they were cleaning. Cyren would of liked to vent some of her frustrations somehow by conjuring up some flames or something, but that didn't seem to be a viable option at the moment. So, she did what was easiest. With her lips pressed firmly together Cyren pulled her hoodie tighter around her form as she hurried back to her room. Back where she could just space out on her laptop. Pretend that Greg wasn't lying dead in the nurse's office. Just pretend that tomorrow would just be another day. Another Tuesday, with her assignments due. English would be spent sitting between Greg and Nix while the Draconian's whispered back and forth with her until Finn hushed them... Just normal little moments that wouldn't be the same for a long time, if ever, after the Rebellion's attack.

_______________________________________________________________________________________________

Daniel Roberts | Vampire


It felt like death itself had thrown it's blanket of silence over the room. Thick and heavy... Suffocating. If Dan wasn't a staff who was needed by the students, he would of taken off. He would of gone back to his room or his classroom and thrown himself into his work. And it appeared that he and Cyren had that in common. Once the students shuffled in, each taking a seat and the Headmaster began speaking he could almost see the tension that held her shoulders straight and rigid. And he wasn't the only one. A few Community soldiers were eyeing a few students who looked close to losing control; and Cyren was one of them. The hellhound seemed oblivious to this. She seemed oblivious to everything. Boy that was a can of worms he didn't want to handle on his own. Though it was a pair of baby blues that caught his gaze and Daniel found Marlee's golden top of hair rather easily in the crowd. She was remarkably composed for such a trying time and Dan wanted to sit beside her. Hold her hand and offer silent support. After all, he hadn't forgotten the nightmares that plagued his girlfriend the previous night.

Dan had been paying half attention to the speech, which felt pretty generic and safe to him. He figured that the students who needed more counseling and more comforting would seek it out after this speech was done. And his other half of attention was kept on the students. Though mostly Marlee and Cyren. Marlee seemed distracted while her friend seemed immensely focused on what Stirling had to say. Daniel flickered his ears back to the headmaster's speech as well. -"e’re still in the dark when it comes to the Rebellion, which is why the Community leaders decided it was best if we had extra security on the grounds. You will be seeing guards but they are only here to keep us safe, for when the Rebels decide to-" At this he noticed movement. Cyren. A few other students had left by this time already. Close friends of Greg, people who were still shaken by this. She didn't cause a scene. Just slowly stood up, silently crept towards the side of the dining hall and left as softly as possible. In an eerily controlled calm sort of way. Dan shrugged it off. Who knew, maybe the senior just needed to clear her head. A few kids had raised their hands into the air, asking questions. "How long will the Community soldiers be here?"

One had asked. Another was curious to know how this was going to affect class and how the school was run. Another nervous looking first year, a wraith if he recalled, asked if they were officially in the war now. They were all hard questions and no one looked particularly satisfied. Daniel hardly felt that way. But he had to do his best to ease all the students. After questions were asked, Stirling excused himself and left the silent hall. Once he was gone a few whispers broke out mostly students discussing the most recent turn of events in hushed tones. As if they weren't even sure they should be talking about the Community or Greg or anything at all. The tension was thick, and making him agitated. He didn't blame the students as they quickly fled after the speech. Leaving varying degrees of eaten food behind on the tables. The vampire sighed, pushing himself off the wall and circled around the dining hall a couple times. A few students asked what he thought, others if he thought they were all safe... Dan was pretty sure he was telling the truth when he assured the kids that this was the safest place for them to be right now, and not to worry.

After that, Daniel couldn't help himself. He gravitated towards Marlee, taking Cyren's empty seat. No one seemed to care. Plenty of other staff where doing the same. Almost one at every table, speaking the students for a more personal conversation on what was happening. "How are you holding up? I'm sorry for not telling you before about the soldiers. I honestly had no idea until I went to the staff meeting." He dropped his voice at this leaning slightly closer to the blonde fae as he frowned. He didn't want her to know how much these recent events troubled him. "Anyway, do you have any questions? I'll answer what I can, but these are confusing times for all of us. Staff and student." Dan asked carefully. He would tell what he could to Marlee, not only because he wanted to do his absolute best to look out for his girlfriend- but it was his obligation as her teacher to look out for her as well. "Or... Do you have any concerns? About anything? I'll do my best to try to address those as well." He added in a hesitant voice. He wasn't sure he could do anything about the community being here, hell he was positive he couldn't. But Dan could give a listening ear. Sometimes people just needed to vent, and Dan could do that for Marlee at least.

Finn Huxley | Basilisk


Things were thankfully staying calm inside the dining hall, but he could tell that Cyren wasn’t taking what Stirling was saying that well. Her shoulders were tense and it was obvious that she was on edge, he couldn’t blame her as he was feeling exactly the same way about everything that has happened recently. The kids should be focusing on their work during class, the seniors should be studying for the upcoming exams. Not dealing with this, not dealing with a death of a friend. But there wasn’t anything that Finn could do, he couldn’t make any of this better for any of the students. No matter how hard he tried, he could take back the events that occurred on the night of the senior dance. His eyes followed every student that exited the dining hall while the Headmaster was speaking, before movement captured his attention from the corner of his eye. Cyren had silently walked over to a side door before she slipped out, he was actually a little surprised that she had lasted that long during Stirling’s speech. He wanted to follow the Hellhound out into the hallway but he knew how that would look to the students and the other staff, he wasn’t meant to have favourite students and he shouldn’t just leave in case he was needed.

He stayed where he was, leaning against the cool wall until Stirling finished his speech and left the room himself. Cyren knew the other staff could handle the students that decided to stay inside the dining hall, he was too worried about the brunette to stay there and deal with the other students. He knew how that sounded as well but right now he couldn’t care less, his head was lowered as he made his way out of the dining hall. He had somewhat hoped that once he was out in the hallway, the air wouldn’t be as thick with tension and fear but he was sadly wrong. It was beginning to give him a headache but he carried on in trying to find the Hellhound, it was a little difficult to find her scent as the emotions overpowered any scent that hadn’t been left there less than a few seconds. But once Finn started to follow her faint scent he soon realised where Cyren would be, his feet were taking him to the staff dorms meaning that is where the beauty was hiding out. Making his way towards her door, he stood there staring at the wood grain for a few moments before letting his knuckles lightly tap. He waited for Cyren’s voice to allow him to step into her room, once she told him to come in he turned the door knob and shut the door behind him.

“Want to talk about anything? The Headmaster had to make that speech,” His voice was airy as his hand grabbed the chair that was placed at the desk, pulling the chair closer to the bed he sat down. He wasn’t sure how close she wanted him to be or if she just wanted some space right now, but until she told him what she wanted from him then he would give her all the space she needed. He wasn’t expecting her to want to talk about Greg or the attack, but maybe it was a good time to start making her talk. He didn’t want to force her into anything, but if she didn’t start expressing her emotions and grieving over her friend than he might have to consider being tougher on her. He had no idea how she would react to that, but he had reacted well to the tough love that his older brother had given him a few times when something had happened in their lives. But that was just Finn, Cyren could react horribly to it and hide away from him even more which he never wanted her to do. “Once the abilities room is ready, we can begin our extra sessions again. I will teach you as much as I can, but you can’t continue like this. You can’t hold onto all of the pain and guilt that I know you feel, I’ve been in your position and you really don’t want to go down that path. Trust me, Cyren. That’s a path that will consume you and the hound will control you,” He spoke as his rich bark eyes focused on the brunette beauty, he could feel his heart increase in speed at the thought of opening up to Cyren. He hadn’t opened up to anyone ever in his life, no one was that important to him for him to want to tell them about his life. But Cyren was important to him and he would do everything in his power to keep Cyren on the good path, to keep the darkness from engulfing her like he was scared it would.

“My parents were murdered when I was younger too, it was my fault that my family was attacked. I wanted revenge on the hunters who took my parents away from me, and I tracked down the five men and I did kill them. But it didn’t make me feel any better, it didn’t bring my parents back and it only made me feel disgusted in myself. I was just as bad as the hunters,” He couldn’t look at Cyren as he told her a story from his past, of course he hadn’t been as young as Cyren had when she lost her parents but he was younger then she was now when he had his first kill which was one of the hunters. He didn’t want her to know about what he has done in his life, he still couldn’t think about that time in his life without feeling sick to his stomach. “I went down that dark path and I never wanted to break free from it, it made me feel like nothing could hurt me again and I refused to grieve about my parents. It wasn’t until my older brother pulled me out and made me realise that I still have a life to live, I still had a bright future ahead of me. It was hard for us but Ethan never once gave up on me,” He hoped he wasn’t telling Cyren this for nothing, it was hard for him to tell her and his body hadn’t relaxed since he sat down on the chair.

---

Marlee Hudson | Fairy


Marlee continued to sit at the table after Cyren slipped out of the room, she wanted to go with her friend but thought Cyren might want some time to herself so the fae stayed where she was. She had her elbows leaning against the table as she blocked out the people around her, she knew that she was trying to keep her mind off Greg just so she wouldn’t start crying again. Cyren had always been the stronger one between them, but she was hurting deeply and refusing to deal with that pain so Marlee felt like she had to be the strong one now to support Cyren as much as she possibly could. She rested her chin on her arms as she didn’t know what she should do now, classes weren’t on for the day and Cyren was somewhere in the school. She did think about heading back to her dorm and hiding away from the world, that was until someone joined her at the table. Her eyes moved across the table to where Cyren had been sitting not that long ago, but it was Daniel who was sitting opposite her now and all she wanted to do was move into his arms and stay there for the rest of the day.

"How are you holding up? I'm sorry for not telling you before about the soldiers. I honestly had no idea until I went to the staff meeting. Anyway, do you have any questions? I'll answer what I can, but these are confusing times for all of us. Staff and student." Daniel’s voice was weak, the past events were taking a toll on him and yet he wasn’t slowing down to take care of himself. Marlee guessed it was because he was a Professor and felt like he needed to be around for the students, even though there was more than enough staff to help the students if they needed it. “I’m okay… I just don’t like them being here, it doesn’t feel right. They shouldn’t be here, all they do is hover.” She knew Daniel couldn’t do anything about the Community being there, no one but the Headmaster could make the Community leave the school and that wouldn’t be happening until the threat from the Rebellion was completely gone. Folding her arms on the table she rested her chin down as she wanted to curl her body up into a tiny ball and forget about the world around her, her shoulders curved inward on herself to try and make herself appear smaller. She didn’t have a good feeling about any of this, the agreement that the Headmaster made with the Community or that the Rebellion could attack a second time whenever they felt like it.

“Do you think the Community will keep us safe? I don’t trust them, Dan.” Marlee lowered her voice so no else would overhear what she was saying, but she did want to know what her boyfriend thought about the Community guards being there at the school. Their entire mission was to keep the school safe, which should have reassured Marlee but she would have felt a lot better if the guards stayed away and the Professors were the ones protecting the school. Although maybe that’s why the guards were there, because the Professors strength hadn’t been enough and a student had died. But she thought the Professors had done really well during the attack, the school had only lost one person while it could have been so much worse. Apparently that didn’t seem to matter to the Community leaders, or they just wanted to make a deal with the school which is something that has never happened before as there wasn’t a reason. She also wanted to know what Dan thought because he was a staff member and probably knew more than she did about all of this, she knew he wouldn’t keep anything from her unless he felt like it would protect her and she didn’t blame him for that.

Hell she hadn’t even brought up the plan she had made with Cyren about keeping an eye on her ex-boyfriend, because they thought he might be involved in the Rebellion. She hadn’t told Dan about seeing one of Hamish’s uncles during the attack either, she wasn’t sure if it was the right time for her to bring it up. He was also dealing with Greg’s death, she didn’t want to add any more stress or worry onto his shoulders. “How are you?” She asked as her eyes moved to settle on him, although he hadn’t been close to Greg, it was still a student who had died. That would affect anyone and she wanted to make sure that he was somewhat alright, she could tell by his eyes that he was exhausted and she blamed herself for that. “I’m sorry that I woke you up so many times,” Her voice was barely above a whisper which Dan would still hear clearly, she wanted to take his hand into her own and take him back to her room where they could cuddle in bed together. Take a nap or just rest in each other’s arms, Marlee wanted to feel that security that only Dan could give her with the simple action of holding her body close to him.

Cyren Nielsen | Hellhound


Cyren hadn't gone onto her laptop simply burrowed back into her bed beneath the blankets to close her eyes, doing her best to avoid sleep though her body felt heavy, though it were made of stone. It was the gentle tapping on her door that had the Hellhound picking her head up her brown hair tousled. She waited to see if they'd go away, but the tapping continued so she sighed getting to her feet. "Coming..." She grumbled getting to her feet and shuffling to the door. Upon opening the door, Cyren's gaze fell on Finn. She knew what he wanted to talk about, but she dreaded it. But, Cyren couldn't send him away. So rather she stepped aside, allowing him in and shutting the door quickly after him so the other staff, should there be any, would not catch them. While he pulled a chair from her desk out, Cyren sat on the edge of her bed regarding him carefully. There was a silence between them and remained so until Finn broke it. “Want to talk about anything? The Headmaster had to make that speech,” He started and Cyren made a noise beneath her breath that might of been a scoff, or a huff of acknowledgement. "There's nothing to talk about. Greg's still dead. The Community is still here. Talking isn't going to change any of that." She didn't want to talk. Didn't want to discuss all her newest pains, because it just hurt. And she didn't want to hurt and be helpless.

She'd rather be angry and strong. “Once the abilities room is ready, we can begin our extra sessions again. I will teach you as much as I can, but you can’t continue like this. You can’t hold onto all of the pain and guilt that I know you feel, I’ve been in your position and you really don’t want to go down that path. Trust me, Cyren. That’s a path that will consume you and the hound will control you,” Finn didn't waste much time delving into what was troubling him. At once that stubborn frown came to her lips and Cyren narrowed her gaze slightly. She was still agitated, but this was still Finn. She wouldn't hurt him or anything. "You didn't walk past him Finn. I did. That's on me. I don't have any sort of right to grieve over him. Not until the Rebellion is gone." The girl insisted, though there was a note of hesitancy in her voice. Was Finn right? Would this path consume her? But weren't she and the hound one? If Cyren couldn't use it to avenge a friend- then what good was it? What good was all this potential if she couldn't use anger to sharpen and perfect the blade of her abilities? It was the increased heart rate of Finn's that caught her attention and she noticed he looked... Tensed. Curiously she leaned forward slightly her cerulean orbs trained on his dark chestnut ones. It was clear he wanted to say something, though seemed almost nervous in doing so.

“My parents were murdered when I was younger too, it was my fault that my family was attacked. He stated, and the Hellhound felt her stomach twist. "Finn... I'm sorry. I didn't know. About your parents." Cyren offered, her eyes downcast. She knew all too well the horror and pain of losing your parents. And Finn had said it was his fault. She wished to say that she couldn't imagine that kind of cross to bear- but Cyren could all too well imagine it. I wanted revenge on the hunters who took my parents away from me, and I tracked down the five men and I did kill them. But it didn’t make me feel any better, it didn’t bring my parents back and it only made me feel disgusted in myself. I was just as bad as the hunters,” He spoke, his voice soft, ashamed as he couldn't bring himself to look her in the eye as he spoke. She bit her bottom lip gently thinking over his words. How scared for her must Finn be to disclose this? Was she really setting down that path? A part of her brain screamed no, while another part of her knew that he was right. She couldn't keep going this way. Anger had always been that coal that kept her warm. Kept her going and kept her safe. She ha said as much before. But this time it was too much. Cyren knew. She knew as she could feel the beast within roiling, straining and pulling at the chains Cyren normally kept it locked up in.

“I went down that dark path and I never wanted to break free from it, it made me feel like nothing could hurt me again and I refused to grieve about my parents. It wasn’t until my older brother pulled me out and made me realize that I still have a life to live, I still had a bright future ahead of me. It was hard for us but Ethan never once gave up on me,” She paused, her mind racing. What if she had an older sibling? Would they have been able to teach her to deal with emotions in a manner that wasn't self-destructive? Or would they be on the same path? Finn's body was still tense, and his gaze downward. "Finn..." Cyren murmured, unsure if that utterance of his name was a plea, a reassurance, or something else entirely. "I-I don't think I can let it all go. Not today. It may take me awhile, but I'll try. If it makes everyone relax I'll try. I don't think I'll just wake up tomorrow and not be sad or frustrated or guilty or angry over last night. But I can try to start to... To come to terms with it." Cyren mumbled, hesitantly. Greg wasn't ever coming back. Likely, it was her fault. That familiar well of sorrow began to creep back up thickening her throat. She wanted to fight it, engulf her sadness with anger, but this time she did her best to let go of the anger.

It was against every instinct she had, every urging of the hound to hold on to it all. Gone. Greg was gone and he was never coming back. And Finn was right even if she thought it felt good in the moment, killing and hunting the Rebellion wasn't going to bring him back. No matter what Cyren did, she'd never see her friend again. Nearly against her will tears welled up in her eyes and she made a soft sniffling sound. Cyren was never good at crying in front of people. But for once she'd rather someone was there. Wanted Finn to be near her as she tried to sort this out. But it was terrifying. Cyren felt like if she let those tears fall, it would break a dam in her she'd built since childhood. All those little broken bits of hurt would float back up to the surface and she'd just suffocate on them. That's what Cyren feared. Perhaps Finn sensed her anxieties sensed her fear, or maybe he was seeking his own comfort. Either way there was a rustling and Finn was off the chair and sitting beside her, wrapping an arm around her shoulder. She was barely aware though through the burning of unshed tears in her throat. In their silence, a tear finally fell from her eyes, dropping onto her cheeks. And after that it was inevitable the soft sob that Cyren choked out, her heart twisting.

Her cries were plaintive and woeful as she cried out a small portion of that sadness that burdened her chest. Cried out what she could, what she was able to let go of today. It was only a fraction, there was still plenty of anger and grief and loss that she held onto that would need to be addressed some other day. But for now, Cyren cried into her own hands, shoulders shaking as Finn was there, comforting her the best he could, by simply being there for her. "It hurts so bad Finn." She admitted once she was able to calm down some, her words hoarse and broken. Everything she didn't want to feel was overwhelming her. Helplessness. Loss. Fear. Helpless to be able to focus on anything. On avenging Gregg. Loss to if she should even continue with that course of action, and fear that this sadness would swallow her up whole, which was just as bad as the Hellhound taking over in Cyren's mind. Fear that everyone left, one way or another. Of their own volition or by death, and she'd be left all alone again. That fear made her burrow closer to Finn, if possible her breathing sharp and ragged. She knew her eyes were puffy and red and gross, but she just felt exhausted. In every sense of the word. "Does it ever feel better?" Cyren asked, her gaze remaining locked on her hands as she fought to get herself back under control, and her breathing in check.
_______________________________________________________________________________________________

Daniel Roberts | Vampire


Around him, the world seemed to quiet as he sat next to Marlee, resiting the urge to simply rest against her. The simple touch brining comfort to his frayed nerves. But he couldn't not only was her her teacher, but Daniel had to appear put together in front of other students. They were the ones who were supposed to be scared, unsure... Not him. “I’m okay… I just don’t like them being here, it doesn’t feel right. They shouldn’t be here, all they do is hover.” Daniel nodded, he felt the same way. There was something hard about Adaria Wuuthring. She was a soldier, a warrior. Daniel and the rest of the staff here were educators. Molder's of young minds. The kids here? Were exactly that- kids. This was an unprecedented move by both Community, Rebellion, and School. He merely hoped the soldiers wouldn't make the school feel like a boot camp, like a prison rather than the refuge and safe haven it was. "It's strange. I think it'll take a little while to get used to their presence. But I'm sure they're here for the best reasons. To keep all of us safe so we don't have to sit on our hands and wait for the Rebellion to pick us off like ants." Dan answered carefully, making sure not to touch down on his own discomfort. But Marlee was smarter than that, knew him too well. “Do you think the Community will keep us safe? I don’t trust them, Dan.”

Dan sighed, running a hand through his hair; his unconscious nervous tick. "I... I think they're here for the right reasons. I don't like having soldiers here period. We're a school. But, I shudder to think what would happen if the Rebels caught us with our pants down again. This time it was only Greg. What if next time it's Nix? Or Cyren?" He paused, his dark brows furrowing before asking softly, "Or you?" The mere thought brought his stomach into a knot and having to fight the urge to clench his hands into fists. "If having them here means saving just one life, then I have to be okay with that." If their presence here scared the Rebellion away, if them being here kept everyone safe; they were worth having around. Of course Dan didn't mention he was nervous the Rebellion would see this as a challenge and descend on the school in swarms. He shuddered to think of what would happen. If they thought Greg's death was difficult, what about ten, twenty, seventy students? But Dan didn't think the Rebellion was that stupid. It wouldn't be a fight they could win. Sure they could drag a few of them out, but nothing more than that. "How are you?" Marlee asked, her voice soft and Dan wanted to crumble. Truthfully, he was exhausted. Dan would of liked nothing more than to go back to his room.

But, kids needed him. Dan would have later to have some time to himself to wrap his head about everything. And he hadn't been that close to Greg. They never had cause to be. Greg didn't need extra help in his classes, Daniel had other students to worry about... Of course he felt horribly a student had died. Felt even worse that it was a friend of Marlee and Cyren's, but he was going to be just fine. "Honestly? I'm a little run down right now. But a few glasses of blood, and when I don't have to run around and... And explain this over and over to kids- I'll be good as new." Daniel promised, and added in a quieter and impish voice "A few kisses from you wouldn't hurt me either I'm sure." He smiled, something of a cheeky grin though it disappeared relatively quickly. “I’m sorry that I woke you up so many times,” It wasn't her fault, Dan knew this. A terrible thing had happened. She had been hurt, seen other people get hurt, hadn't known what happened to him or her best friend. It was Marlee's first battle. Dan had known she'd of had nightmares. Hell he had been expecting to stay up the entire night with her to keep the enchanting blonde feeling safe and comfortable. "It's fine Marlee. I expected you to be restless. I don't imagine you've lived through something like this. It's stressing to even the strongest and most composed staff. I'd do it again in a heartbeat.... Well- if I had one."

He smiled, trying to lighten the mood between them, though soon enough his smile faded into something far more subdued. "And Marlee, I'll sleep wherever you need me to for however long it takes for you to be able to sleep again. Without the nightmares. It's not a big deal to me, I'd rather you getting enough sleep and feeling safe." Dan promised, a solidarity in his tone as he scrunched his brows together. "So how are you coming to terms with everything? I don't suppose I have to worry about you going rogue and hunting down the Rebellion?" He asked, his eyes warming considerably at the thought. Though really it shouldn't be amusing to him. They already had one Hellhound on the brink of doing exactly that. Gods forbid. But he trusted to Finn to handle it. "Are you... Are you going to be okay going to the memorial?" He didn't know how many students would go. How many would feel okay enough to go. Daniel would be there. The vampire didn't feel like he had a choice. Greg had been his student, and while Dan hadn't known him too well, he did know the draconian had been a good kid. A kid that had always been kind to those around him, to Cyren and Marlee. That he had appreciated in words he never said to Greg. For that Dan would always feel guilty for not putting in more effort to get to know him.

Finn Huxley | Basilisk


"You didn't walk past him Finn. I did. That's on me. I don't have any sort of right to grieve over him. Not until the Rebellion is gone." Finn wasn’t even sure if he knew how to help Cyren or keep her from losing herself. But he would never give up on her, he cared too much about her to just walk away. “No I didn’t walk past him, but you weren’t the only one who did walk past him. And he would have told everyone the same thing, that he was fine which is what he told you. Too much was happening at that time, we all overlooked him. You weren’t the only one, Cyren.” He wasn’t sure if he was being harsh on her or not, but it was the truth. He hadn’t seen Greg that night, but he had overheard other staff members blaming themselves because Greg wouldn’t let anyone help him before they helped other people. It was just who Greg was, sadly no one had checked on Greg enough that night and everyone was now learning from that horrible mistake. And before he knew it, he had shared the worst time of his life with the brunette because she needed to know that getting revenge wasn’t all it seemed to be. At the time it had seemed like the best option for Finn to take, but after it was done and blood was covering him, it didn’t change a single thing and he felt even worse than he had before. He just hoped Cyren would take that away from what he was telling her, because it was important for her to understand that.

He also wasn’t telling Cyren this to make her feel bad or make her feel pity for him, it had taken years ago and he had dealt with the death of his parents. Of course it would always hurt, but the pain and guilt weren’t overtaking him anymore. He just hoped that he could help the hellhound like Ethan had helped him, it wouldn’t be easy on either of them and it wouldn’t be a quick process. It was going to take a long time and it would hurt for much longer, but they could get to a place where Cyren didn’t blame herself because it wasn’t actually her fault. She hadn’t been the only person who checked on Greg, she wasn’t the only person who had walked away from him and not noticed how serious his injures were. He knew why she didn’t see it that way, but it was something she needed to realise and the sooner she did the better all of this would be. Once she realised it wasn’t her fault, the sooner she could grieve and deal with losing someone close to her yet again.

"I-I don't think I can let it all go. Not today. It may take me awhile, but I'll try. If it makes everyone relax I'll try. I don't think I'll just wake up tomorrow and not be sad or frustrated or guilty or angry over last night. But I can try to start to... To come to terms with it." Cyren spoke to him after a short silence had fallen upon them, her statement caused him to raise his eyes so he was finally looking at the brunette. He even leaned forward, reached his hand out and lightly covered her small warm hand with his own. “You don’t need to let it all go, Cyren. All the pain can be used to help you learn control, it will give you a reason to control the hound within you. Control the hound from overtaking you and leading you down a path that no one wants you to go down,” He explained to her as she could use the emotions she was feeling, to make herself better in every way possible. “Let me help you use the pain and guilt to your advantage, you don’t need to get revenge on the people who did this. Because a better revenge will be taking out the entire Rebellion, which I promise will happen and you can be a part of that. But only if you don’t allow the hound to control you,” He wondered what Cyren would say to that, she could be one with the hound but to make that happen she needed to be the one in control all of the time.

Wrapping his fingers around her small hand, giving a gentle reassuring squeeze. He was glad that he had told her about his parents, he was always worried sharing that story with people in case it scared them away from him but Cyren didn’t seem to be scared in the slightest. “I know my story is a lot to take in, if you want me to leave then just say the word and I will.” Was she not scared of him because she had seen what hunters could do? Because she knew the soul crushing pain that came with losing someone so utterly close to you, like a parent who was supposed to be there for you until they grew old and died peacefully. “It hurts so bad Finn. Does it ever feel better?” Sadly this was a question that Finn could answer honestly, so his eyes locked onto the stormy blue orbs that were searching him for any answers they could find. “It does get easier, not really better but it won’t always hurt this much. Although it’s going to take a while for that to happen, and for that to happen you need to grieve and talk about this and not blame yourself. You weren’t the only one who didn’t help him, none of us helped him when he needed us the most. Because we were blind, we believed him when he said he was fine.” If anyone should get the blame for Greg’s death it should fall onto the staff, what would Cyren have even done? She couldn’t help Greg, all she could have done was find a staff member who already had their hands full dealing with other students and the injured.

---

Marlee Hudson | Fairy


"It's strange. I think it'll take a little while to get used to their presence. But I'm sure they're here for the best reasons. To keep all of us safe so we don't have to sit on our hands and wait for the Rebellion to pick us off like ants." Marlee listened to Dan’s voice, she heard the discomfort in his quiet voice and heard that he was trying to keep that emotion from her. If a Professor didn’t want the Community soldiers here then why should she? Their presence wasn’t making her feel safe right now, they were only making her feel more anxious about the whole situation and that wasn’t pleasant for her. She asked if Dan thought the soldiers would actually keep them safe, she felt like she had a right to know if there were truly there to protect the school or if they had an underlying motive. Like reporting back to the Community leaders about how the school or students were doing. "I... I think they're here for the right reasons. I don't like having soldiers here period. We're a school. But, I shudder to think what would happen if the Rebels caught us with our pants down again. This time it was only Greg. What if next time it's Nix? Or Cyren? Or you? If having them here means saving just one life, then I have to be okay with that." Daniel explained to her and he was right, the attack could have left more bodies lying on the ground of the abilities room. Bodies that were students or staff members, it could have easily been more and it could have been her or Cyren who passed away from injures.

Hell it could have even been Finn or… Dan who died, just the thought of losing anyone she loved caused her chest to tighten with fear. “You should know by now that I can handle myself, nothing will ever take me away… not from you.” She whispered as her tired oceanic eyes met with his rich dark cocoa orbs, she wanted to try and lighten the mood that was clinging to them. She knew she hadn’t learnt everything she could about her magic and how to use it, she had been extremely lucky during the attack. Lucky that she hadn’t gotten more than a cut to the head and a broken bone, she wasn’t sure how she had gotten so lucky but she wasn’t going to stress herself out by thinking about it too much. "Honestly? I'm a little run down right now. But a few glasses of blood, and when I don't have to run around and... And explain this over and over to kids- I'll be good as new. A few kisses from you wouldn't hurt me either I'm sure." Dan replied to her question about how he was doing, the cheeky grin that flashed across his handsome face for a second caused a blush to stain her milky cheeks. Quickly hiding her face in her folded arms in case anyone was paying any attention to them, which could be the case now with the Community sending their soldiers to the school.

“I’m sure we could work something out,” Her voice was muffled by her arms to stop anyone else overhearing her, her eyes peaked out from over her arms to gaze at her boyfriend. She wouldn’t have refused the chance to go back to his room and just curl up on his bed again, have his arms hold her body close to his but that would need to wait. His first duty was to help the students, it would take most of the day so he wouldn’t be getting time to rest any time soon. “But the blood is all up to you, because that’s gross.” She teased him because she did find it gross that he needed to drink blood, but it was just something he had to do and now it wasn’t even something Marlee thought about. "And Marlee, I'll sleep wherever you need me to for however long it takes for you to be able to sleep again. Without the nightmares. It's not a big deal to me, I'd rather you getting enough sleep and feeling safe.” That had been something that Marlee wasn’t sure on how to ask him, asking him to continue sleeping beside her. Either of them would need to sneak into the other’s room, she knew that he would sleep with her if she asked him to but she felt embarrassed that she needed him there. But if he had been expecting her to have nightmares, then maybe it was easier to have him there to calm and sooth her. Otherwise she would grow scared of sleeping and would focus herself to constantly stay awake, “Could you still sleep with me?” Her voice turned small and it was clear just how young she still was compared to Dan, this pain was all new to her and she didn’t really know how to deal with it yet. Once he agreed to stay with her during the night, she did feel better and was grateful that she had someone so amazing in her life that would put up with being woken up very few hours.

"So how are you coming to terms with everything? I don't suppose I have to worry about you going rogue and hunting down the Rebellion?" His voice warmed up as he continued looking at her, “I won’t be going rouge.” And she wouldn’t, it didn’t mean she didn’t have something else planned. She knew she should tell Dan about Hamish, a part of her was almost going to spill out everything but another part was holding back and keeping the plan buried deep. He would only worry and want her to stop before she even started, but she couldn’t stop now. If Hamish was a secret Rebel than she was going to find out, she would do whatever it took to find out more. Well she would do a lot, she wouldn’t do everything. "Are you... Are you going to be okay going to the memorial?" It was something Marlee hadn’t really thought about yet, she knew a memorial would be held and that she’d go as she would feel horrible if she didn’t. She wanted to say goodbye to her friend and pay her respects to Greg’s family, she wasn’t going to miss going to the memorial because Greg deserved to have all his friends there. “I’ll be fine, he deserves to have us all there. He was always so nice to me, even after everyone ditched me because of Thomas. Greg never did,” She hadn’t even gotten the chance to tell Greg how much she appreciated him and his friendship.

Cyren Nielsen | Hellhound


She holds onto his hand like a lifeline. Maybe for lack of purpose, it is at least for now. Finn looks apprehensive, as if he's scared she'll judge him. It makes her innards twist, but all she can do right now is hold onto his hand, and try to silently convey that she's there. That his past didn't influence how she saw him. Not negatively anyway. “It does get easier, not really better but it won’t always hurt this much. Although it’s going to take a while for that to happen, and for that to happen you need to grieve and talk about this and not blame yourself. You weren’t the only one who didn’t help him, none of us helped him when he needed us the most. Because we were blind, we believed him when he said he was fine.” Finn explained, and Cyren just averted her gaze. What was she to say? Everything just hurt. It was like this ache and guilt was a corporeal thing, and she felt as though her organs were heavy, drenched in lead. "I just... I just wish I could of done something." Cyren mutters her tone turning dark and heavy. She's scared, and compunction still weighed bitterly on her tongue. And things still felt bleak. She still felt angry, wounded, and wrathful at what had happened to Greg.

What would haunt her for years to come- but she was paused for now in her efforts to hold onto that hot coal of anger. To hear that one day, it wouldn't hurt as much- that's what she needed to know in the moment. Of course, that didn't mean that she was any sort of okay; but she sighs, feeling a sliver of all that negative exhale from her lungs. Wordlessly she rests her head against Finn, though her eyes remain open; pensive. She regards him in an open fashion, unabashed in the wandering of her gaze over his face. She takes in the lines, and sees his own shame in his past actions. His words don't magically fix her, but Cyren never expected it to. But what it does give, is perspective. It gives her pause enough to think through her actions. Community soldiers are here. What would happen if she lost control while they were here? Would they put her down like a rabid dog? If she was a threat to them and the other students, than probably. She could not afford to have the hound take over. To have the luxury of the beast taking away her hurts and aches, to give it control. "We'll be okay." She finally sighs, unsure if she's trying to convince her, or him. Probably both.

Silence between the pair offers a welcome retreat for Cyren to delve into her own mind. Finn had earlier mentioned their occupation of the school. With a quick motion she rubs any remaining moisture out of her eyes and hefts a little sigh, looking dejected and confused. "The Community Soldiers are here." She states, less of a question. "I guess I should feel safer." But she doesn't. That's clear in the flat, dissatisfied quality of her tone. "They make me uncomfortable. I dunno why, I hate soldiers being around." Cyren grumbles, still leaning against Finn. She thinks most students felt uneasy with their new protectors. But she also thinks most understand why they have to be there. At least for now. That hurt is locked away, to be kept until she was ready to let another piece of it go. But for today? Cyren was just... Exhausted. Still a little angry and exhausted. Mentally, physically... Just drained. Her lips are pressed into an omnipresent frown that stains her depths into something harder than usual, something more... mature than usual. As if she'd aged years in the past twenty-four hours. "This school year isn't going to be easy, is it?"

She sighs after a few minutes of silence, sounding worn. If Cyren was in any sort of joking mood, she'd of laughed. Her senior year was going to be the one that was going to be attacked by an extreme faction of her community- wouldn't it? But she's not in a joking mood. She's not laughing, and she'd not grinning. She just looks.. Troubled. Perplexed. If the school was attacked again, Cyren wasn't sure she'd be ready. If anything, last night had taught her how much work she had left to do. And now it all felt pressurized. Like there was a real consequence if she didn't actually learn her abilities. But Cyren doesn't want to think about that right now. It's when her gaze wanders towards Finn's leg, where he'd been gashed during the attack is Cyren reminded of Werewolves- well one in particular. Hamish. Part of her wants to tell him, tell him what Marlee told her. Of their plans to monitor the wolf, but something holds her tongue. It's just more stress on the male that she'd cause him, and for once Cyren doesn't want to be a pain. Not for him, and not right now. If something major happened, she'd tell him what had been going on; but until then her tongue would be sealed with silence on the whole Hamish matter. "What about you?" Cyren turns the conversation around, her gaze swinging back to his darker ones an honest question there. "How um... How are you dealing with everything?"
___________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

Daniel Roberts | Vampire


Dan smiles, thought quickly covers it with a frown in case any staffer eyes are on him. "I'll take your word Miss Hudson. Nothing will take you away from me." He drops his voice on that last part, and wants so badly to encase her smaller hands in his. But he doesn't and he can't. Not here, not now. Dan has to restrain himself from chuckling as Marlee hid her face in her arms at his cheeky remark. The vampire feels slightly amused, better than he'd of thought on a day like this anyway. "I'm sure we can work something out." Marlee replies, her voice muffled and Dan bites at his lip to keep the grin from spreading to his face. "Is that so? I look forward to it." He replies, his tone of professionalism overshadowed by his tone of light-hearted amusement at the situation he placed her into. “But the blood is all up to you, because that’s gross.” She tacks on, and Dan nods his gaze never faltering off her. There's an unreadable sort of intensity about the gaze that he's unaware of- and so is the staff. "That seems like a fair trade-off." He agrees. Dan knows she's only kidding, but as he sits at the table, surrounded by a morbidly dark atmosphere, smiling with Marlee as if unawares to the world about them, he knows he wouldn't ever. Dan wouldn't drink off her. He wouldn't place in her harms way for a quick drink.

"Could you still sleep with me?" The question is soft and Dan feels his heart twist. "Yes, of course. For however long you need." He swears in a quiet tone. He wouldn't leave her alone. Not until she was feeling safe again in her own school. Besides, he preferred sleeping next to the fairy. Even if she tossed and turned, he was not bothered by it. He'd rather be woken up than for the fairy to go through all the nightmares by herself, and wake up to an empty room. "Whatever you need of me, just ask." Dan adds, in a whispered tone for her ears only. If she needed something done, and Dan could do it- he would. Their conversation flows and moves on, though Dan almost heaves a sigh of relief when Marlee promises she won't be going rogue. One less thing to worry about. "I'm relieved to hear that. Truly." Dan murmurs, his gaze softening. He thinks a vengeful Marlee would be a scary thing. And dangerous to her well-being, which Daniel was determined to protect. “I’ll be fine, he deserves to have us all there. He was always so nice to me, even after everyone ditched me because of Thomas. Greg never did,” Marlee promises him, and Daniel feels his gut wrench. Greg had never done anything wrong. Had been a good kid. It just stung bad hearing how he had always stuck by Marlee; even when her father went rogue and the other kids all but abandoned the fairy as if she were some sort of cursed object.

Over the years he had seen how well the four of them got on; and Dan nods. "He was lucky too you know. To have you as a friend." Dan states, his tone quiet and almost uncertain, hesitant as though he's shy. "Have you contacted your mother yet?" Dan finally asks. He knows that Marlee and her mother are close. Also knows the Hudson's are something of almost royal blood in the Fae world. Something of outcasts- but her mother always seemed to know what was going on at the school. Dan figured that the two may want to check in with one another. He flushes for a moment and adds, "Moms kind of worry about this kind of stuff, yeah?" Marlee doesn't get a chance to reply, his delicate ears pick up light and hurried footsteps. Curiously his gaze drifts over Marlee's shoulder and finds the Headmaster making his way towards them. Dan's first reaction is to panic and his nose scrunches up for a moment as if he were a kid in trouble. Trying to conjure up all the trouble he'd been into since this morning. Had someone seen Marlee slip out of his room? Had someone overheard bits of their conversation? His shoulders are tensed as Sterling approaches wearing an unreadable expression. "Miss Hudson, if I may a word? Professor Roberts, you as well." His brows furrow and he nods standing up putting on his best professional face. Sterling is lost in thought as he barely waits for Marlee to stand up before striding towards the door where most kids had already disappeared to. Once in the hall the headmaster leads the odd procession of fairy and vampire to the corner as he faces the two.

"Marlee, I just wanted to apologize firstly for your loss. I know you and Greg were friends. Secondly I wanted to let the two of you know that it's officially safe for Marlee and Cyren to move back into their dorms at the end of the week. I'm sorry the protection spell took so long. I had to come up with something strong enough to keep other magical forces at bay, and then test it out. I figured you'd want to know Roberts since you've been privy to this whole arrangement since the beginning." Sterling half-rants at them, still looking worlds away. Dazed. Dan can't blame him. He just nods, crossing his arms over his chest and doing his best not to look put out. He knew this was all going to be temporary. If Marlee needed him, Dan would still find ways to stay the night over with her. But she would have Cyren again and it was likely going to be good for both of them; but for Cyren especially. "Alright. Thank you Headmaster." Daniel speaks in a calm tone, and Sterling nods. "Be sure to pass that along to Cyren. Stay safe." He bids before turning and head briskly back to his office leaving Dan and Marlee back in the hallway, and Dan sighs once the Headmaster is out of earshot, running his hand through his hair while his brows furrow with thought. He had always known that Marlee was going back to the students dorm- didn't mean that he wouldn't miss how easy it had been to sneak about with her. "Back your own dorms then, huh?" He asks, his gaze sliding down towards the fae with a curious expression.

Finn Huxley | Basilisk


Having Cyren’s warm small hand cling onto his seemed to make everything slightly better, he was still worried that knowing some of his background would scare her away from him. That was the last thing he wanted, for he knew he would struggle without her and it also wouldn’t be good for her at such a horrible time in her life. “We will wish we had done something, but from now on we will.” Finn hated to admit this, but Greg’s death was a kick in the ass that the staff needed to have. To see how easy it was for the Rebels to get onto school grounds and attack, to know how serious the Rebels were taking this split in the communities. He wished it hadn’t come from a death, but it did and it sucked. His thumb gently moved over the back of her hand, backwards and forwards, her smooth skin felt baby soft under his slightly rougher fingers. He allowed her to lean closer to him, until their foreheads rested together and her eyes began to take him in which he had no problem with.

He could tell by her eyes that she was thinking things over, he didn’t even want to know what was running through her head right now. A lot of shit would be filling her mind, hopefully she could push away any thoughts that would get her into trouble or put her in danger. Those thoughts would most likely come from her beast, and right now the beast needed to stay silent and give Cyren time to grieve and to deal with the death of a close friend. “We’ll be okay,” Cyren let him know although he wasn’t completely certain that they would be okay, he knew what it was like to have a beast inside that was just waiting to come out. Waiting until he was weak and fragile before rising to the surface, he prayed that would never happen to Cyren. She didn’t deserve to have her hound control her and cloud her judgement, he had been through that a few times and he wouldn’t wish that onto anyone else.

“Good, but if you start to struggle. Promise me that you’ll tell me,” His eyes lingered on her’s, he wished he had the power to take away her pain and guilt. She has already lost too many people close to her and felt the pain from those deaths, she shouldn’t have to go through it all again. "The Community Soldiers are here. I guess I should feel safer. They make me uncomfortable. I dunno why, I hate soldiers being around.” The brunette explains to him and he can see where she’s coming from, the soldiers are clearly making most students uncomfortable which wasn’t the point of them being here. “I know, I don’t want them here either but if the Rebellion are planning on attacking us again or trying to attack us again. We’ll need as many soldiers as we can get, so no one else gets hurts because of them.” He didn’t want to tell Cyren about what the Rebels told Stirling, that they wanted more soldiers from the school otherwise another attack will occur at some time in the future. He wasn’t going to give her or her hound another reason to want to track down the Rebellion and try to stop them, she may be a Hellhound but she wasn’t unstoppable. Which came down to her not being in control of her hound.

“This year wouldn’t have been easy before all of this happened, it’ll be a lot harder now but the only thing you have to worry about are your grades and keeping them decent.” Finn tried to lighten the mood in the room, although he wasn’t sure how well he had succussed or if he had failed. "What about you? How um... How are you dealing with everything?" Cyren asked as her eyes moved back to his, she was actually concerned about how he was doing? A small smile danced on his lips as he moved his jaw upwards, he pressed a lingering kiss to her forehead before returning his gaze onto her. “I’m fine, you don’t have to worry about how I’m doing. Like I said, I’ve been through this and I know how to deal with it all. The only person I’m worried about is you,” It was his honest answer, she really didn’t need to worry about him because he really was okay. Of course he was furious that this had occurred in the first place, but he would put that anger into the next time the Rebellion tried anything and he wouldn’t allow himself to get hurt like he had. “Is there anything else I can do for you?” Finn honestly wanted to know if there was something he could do for her, he hadn’t ever really been in this position before. When his parents died, it have been Ethan would comforted him and because he had been so anger at the time. He hadn’t been there to comfort his own brother who was going through the exact same thing. Moving his hand away from Cyren’s he moved his body closer to her’s, his arms resting on the bed as his hands found her hips. His touch was innocent but held so much affection, he just wanted to be there for her and help her through this shitty time.

---

Marlee Hudson | Fairy


Once Dan agrees that he would still sleep beside her during the night, Marlee feels like a heavy weight was lifted off her chest. She had been slightly embarrassed to ask but she was glad that she had, because she knew she’d need him there beside her for a few more nights. “Thank you,” She wasn’t sure how else to thank him, she knew being woken up several times through the night would be hard and frustrating but Dan didn’t seem to care at all. Maybe she could buy him something nice, the next time the senior students were allowed into town however she wasn’t sure if that would continue to happen anymore after the attack. It wouldn’t be allowed any time soon, that she was certain of and Professor’s would probably need to go with the students to make sure everyone is still protected. Marlee wanted to reach across the table and hold his hands, to feel his cool skin against her own and to feel how strong he was which always brought her a sense of security. But she couldn’t, not when they were still sitting in the dining hall.

"He was lucky too you know. To have you as a friend." Dan commented causing Marlee to turn her gaze away from him, was Greg lucky to have known her? If the Rebels used the weakened front gates to get in, the gates that she broke the protection spell on then it was her fault that Greg died. But then it could have also been because someone helped them onto the grounds, but she couldn’t help but wonder just how the Rebels did manage to sneak onto school grounds. Because of those thoughts Marlee didn’t say anything, she honestly wasn’t sure if Greg had been lucky or if he was unlucky to have been her friend. "Have you contacted your mother yet? Moms kind of worry about this kind of stuff, yeah?" Marlee hadn’t called her mom yet but she wouldn’t be surprised if her mom already knew about what happened, most families probably would have heard one way or another. She’d need to call her mom later that day so she wouldn’t panic over her only child, but she wasn’t given the chance to answer Dan as another voice hit her ears from behind her.

"Miss Hudson, if I may a word? Professor Roberts, you as well." The Headmaster stated although he didn’t wait for Marlee to stand up, she didn’t move as fast as either of them so she lagged behind them slightly as she followed the Headmaster out of the dining hall and through the hallway until they all reached a quiet corner where they could talk in privacy. "Marlee, I just wanted to apologize firstly for your loss. I know you and Greg were friends. Secondly I wanted to let the two of you know that it's officially safe for Marlee and Cyren to move back into their dorms at the end of the week. I'm sorry the protection spell took so long. I had to come up with something strong enough to keep other magical forces at bay, and then test it out. I figured you'd want to know Roberts since you've been privy to this whole arrangement since the beginning." The Headmaster spoke quickly but his eyes weren’t paying attention, Marlee would hate to be him at a time like this. She wouldn’t even know what to do or where to stay, the Headmaster had so much on his plate that once he finished talking and told them to pass the message onto Cyren, he was walking away just as quickly as he had approached them.

“I hadn’t been expecting that to happen, but I guess it’s a good thing. I’ll be closer to Cyren and you’ll be able to get a good night sleep,” She softened her voice as she spoke, she didn’t expect nor was she going to ask Daniel to sneak into her dorm at night just to sleep with her. She knew how risky that was for them and their relationship, besides she highly doubted Cyren would want him hanging around even more. But it would be good for her to have Cyren there again and the same for Cyren, things hadn’t felt completely right since they had moved into the staff dorms. Of course she’d miss how easy it was to sneak into Dan’s room and see him, kiss him and hold him for however long she wanted. Now things would be harder, they’d see each other during the day and not be able to see each other after classes were finished. Marlee wasn’t sure how she’d deal with that sudden change, she still did have until the end of the week to prepare herself for limited time with her boyfriend. It didn’t mean she liked the idea of not having him close by, but she would deal with it because she’d need to. She wasn’t going to let him get caught and lose his job because of her.

Cyren Nielsen | Hellhound


The thought of soldiers leaves a bitter taste in Cyren's mouth. They were students, not soldiers. They were a school, a place of learning and growth- not a war zone. At least they weren't supposed to be. But the attack had changed everything. In it's wake, it had left pain, confusion, fear, and loss. So... Maybe they were a war zone now. Hopefully their presence would become something of a peace of mind for the students and staff around the school. Hopefully their presence would scare the Rebellion off of attacking them again, not draw them to the school looking for some sort of challenge. "I know they're a necessity as of now." Cyren agrees, her gaze flicking to Finn's if only for a moment before returning to her hands. "I just... Well what good are wishes?" She wanted to say she wished they weren't a necessity. She wished that none of this had happened, but to Cyren- that was fools talk. The Hellhound could sit about and jabber about how she wished things were different; but it wouldn't change anything.

A sardonic smile crosses her lips before Cyren shrugs it away. The talk has helped, but she still feels the Hellhound crawling 'neath her skin. Waiting for the right opportunity to force it's way through like a drowning beast. She can't afford to be negative right now, can't give the beast anymore fire, anymore reason to make an appearance- to take over. So, she does her best to just not think, not feel right now. It's a luxury she's frankly nervous to afford herself. “This year wouldn’t have been easy before all of this happened, it’ll be a lot harder now but the only thing you have to worry about are your grades and keeping them decent.” Finn encourages and Cyren nods. She knows he' right. Even with all this going on, she has a graduation date to make. She can't afford to fall behind. But part of her feels strange. She can't imagine going to her classes, through her day without seeing Greg. Instead, seeing the strange faces of community soldiers. "I'll get through the year." Cyren promises, forcing a note of goodwill in her voice that she didn't quite feel.

In the pauses and lulls of their conversation, she struggles with keeping her mind here, not wandering about her own innate darkness. But his little touches, they help keep Cyren grounded. Even in wake of all this terribleness, her heart flutters as he leans up to plant a soft, dry kiss against her forehead. It's sweet and comforting for the girl. “I’m fine, you don’t have to worry about how I’m doing. Like I said, I’ve been through this and I know how to deal with it all. The only person I’m worried about is you,” Finn assures when he pulls away, his voice soft and sweet. "Thank you." Cyren mumbles, feeling a heat creep up her neck. She wasn't used to being... Being so looked after. Growing up it had been Cyren that kept herself safe. She didn't have parents or siblings to run and hide to growing up. Every struggle with the hound, with the flames it had been up to her to control. Marlee had been the first friend that Cy' really ever had. And now? Well now the brunette doesn't feel so alone. "Is there anything else I can do for you?" His voice snaps Cyren out of her thoughts and the Hellhound turns her gaze back up to his darker ones. "Yeah" she says in a somber voice, before a small smile touches on her lips.

"Stay safe. If they come back, or... Or whatever." She bids, her tone somber and serious. Finn moves his hands away from her, only for him to shift, pull her closer as his hands find their anchorage on her hips. She freezes for a moment before leaning into his embrace, her arms snaking around him in return. His steady heartbeat carries on in her ears, giving Cyren something to focus on. She admits being here with him like this, it makes her heart race and her mind cloud. Cloud enough that she focuses on the touches, on the kisses, rather than the Hellhound. But, in the back of her mind Cyren remembers they've agreed to take this slow. Allow things to fall as they will naturally. So she does not push him, does not seek out kisses or lust. Rather she rests in Finn's arms, more than content with that for the moment. "I can't imagine how strange going back to classes are going to be with everything that's transpired." She murmurs into his chest, the fabric there muffling the words. Cyren can't imagine how difficult it's going to be to go to English, or abilities- to not see her friend there, to be reminded every day that he wasn't coming back.
___________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

Daniel Roberts | Vampire


For him, the timing was poor. But he knew that in the long run- this was going to happen. The professor knew that it would be much, much, safer for the girls to move back to their own dorm. Where the Headmaster had enchanted, spelled, and protected in ways that were much to complex for Daniel to comprehend. He knew that the attack probably prompted the Headmaster to finish up the room, knew it was logical- but a part of his heart still twisted knowing that things were about to get a lot sneakier, and a lot more complicated between him and Marlee. And a selfish part of him wanted Marlee to stay close to him. It would put his mind at ease, and he'd be easier able to help her sleep. But Dan knows it's safest at her dorm and the vampire smiles gently down at the blonde fae. Leaning down, dropping his voice Dan shakes his head. "I sleep better when you're near." The words are abashed, honest. "And, we still have a week." Dan reminds the fae, internally swearing to do what it takes to keep her mind at ease. Even if that means sneaking into room to sleep with her, or having her crash with him sometimes.

He knew they'd figure something out, and Dan wouldn't let Marlee be alone if she needed him. That just simply, wasn't going to happen. "And no matter where you're staying or sleeping- if you need me, then you need me." Dan stated, dropping his voice in case there were any wayward ears about. "And I'll be there for you." He promises, full of determination. "And if nothing else, Cyren will be there. Things will... Will start to get back to normal." He rationalizes, though still dislikes that she's moving back. "And no matter what, I'll still be here for you. Might take me a little longer than a few seconds to get to you- but I'll always be there." Dan promises, and after casting a quick glance around, determining that there was no one to witness, he leaned down and placed a soft kiss against Marlee's lips before pulling back an impish sparkle gleaming in his near black depths. "We'll be fine." And he's confident they will be. Things may be bleak now, but they'd get through it. Together. "Are you alright?"

He knows she hadn't been expecting this, neither had he- but there wasn't much they could do now. It could be shocking, but hopefully it would be good for Marlee. Cyren would be near her once again, and both girls seemed to be more at ease when they could be around each other. And he imagined the Hellhound would benefit from being back in her own space with her friend. Give everyone a sense of normality really. It's a good thing. Before he can say more, Dan's sensitive hearing picks up quick, light footsteps. Unfamiliar. Concerned he glances down towards Marlee before straightening himself out, holding himself to a more professional posture. He knows it's nearly impossible to be a foe, but that possibility remains heavy on his mind as the footsteps round the corner of the hall. To his surprise, it's Adaria Wuthering that rounds the corner. She pauses in her strides to cast a look upon the two, her brows furrowing together before they meld back into their apathetic, professional stare. "Professor Roberts, Marlee Hudson if I'm not mistaken? We haven't had a chance to meet yet. I'm Adaria Wuthering."

Her voice is smooth, low; fierce and calm. Before he has a chance to answer, she speaks crossing her arms. "I actually had a couple questions for you Marlee." Adaria directs her gaze towards the fae and out of instinct Dan feels himself tensing. She notes this and she calmly adds, "Feel free to stick around Professor. I'm told you're something of a... A guidance counselor to the young Hudson." He feels himself nodding and glances towards Marlee hesitantly. "Miss Hudson, I have to ask this for the security of the school. Just protocol." The head of the Community soldiers warns before she continues. "Do you feel as though this school is safe from your father? You know him best. Whatever weaknesses you think this school has, what he has, telling me could really help beef up security." She explains, and Dan has to admit he didn't expect that question. He had expected Adaria to question if the fae was in league with Thomas, but this was far more insightful than Dan had originally expected.

Finn Huxley | Basilisk


Finn wanted nothing more than to change everything that has happened recently, stop the rebels attacking, stop Greg’s death and stop the soldiers from filling the school. But he couldn’t and in turn that was making him angry, angry at himself because he couldn’t stop the pain and guilt that Cyren was feeling and putting onto herself. He cared about her more than he could admit right now, more than she would ever know. He knew that he had failed her, failed her when he didn’t get up and help Greg. He had been bitten by werewolves before and he never once let the wound stop him, why hadn’t he gotten back onto his feet and kept fighting? He couldn’t answer his own question, he had no idea why. Maybe he thought it was over, the fighting had stopped and everyone was helping each other.

But he was a professor, he shouldn’t have sat down against the wall and waited for help. He should have been helping everyone else, helping the innocent students who didn’t deserve to be attacked like that. “I’ll get through the year.” Cyren promised him quietly, it wasn’t that he wanted her to ignore what has happened but her grades were still important. He didn’t want her to be at this school for any longer than she needed to be, it wasn’t as safe as everyone believed now but neither was the world outside the school gates. The supernatural world was changing and it was changing fast, families were choosing sides or simply just running and hiding. Neither of which Finn felt was healthy for people, no one should feel like they had to be on a side or to hide from the community they belonged in.

“Thank you,” His smooth voice came out in whisper, he knew it would be hard on most of the senior students going back to classes. But hopefully for most of them, class could distract them just enough that they weren’t constantly thinking about the attack or Greg. He prayed classes would be good for Cyren, have her focus on something that wasn’t revenge or guilt or pain. Finn wasn’t certain though, going back to class without Greg might push her over the ice thin edge that she was currently standing on. Her beast lying in wait just below the ice, waiting patiently for the ice to crack so the beast could break free and do what it was born to do. Cause blood loss and death in its wake. "Stay safe. If they come back, or... Or whatever." Cyren’s voice pulls him from his thoughts as he moves closer to her warm body, “I’ll be safe.” He promised in hopes it would make her feel even the slightest bit better about the whole situation they had been thrown into, “I have to be safe. I have someone to come back to now,” His rusty orbs move to lock onto Cyren’s, it felt really good to know that if he had to fight the Rebellion again. She would be waiting for his return, he’s never really had that before.

"I can't imagine how strange going back to classes are going to be with everything that's transpired." The brunette commented on what he had been thinking about, “If it gets too hard for you. Let me know or tell the Headmaster, I’m sure you can be given time off or you can study here.” He couldn’t imagine Stirling saying no to allowing Cyren to study for her classes in her dorm, a Professor could come by and give her one on one classes. He’d put his hand up for the task as it wasn’t unknown that Cyren didn’t get along with all the Professors at the school, however that came from the Professors not knowing how to deal with a young Hellhound. “I’ll do whatever I can to make this easier for you,” He assured her as she rested against his body, her arms wrapped around him gave him a warmth that he couldn’t explain. The touch was simple but tender, needed and welcomed by them both.

---

Marlee Hudson | Fairy


Heat coloured Marlee’s cheeks at Daniel’s comment about how he slept better when she was near him, and he was right. They still had a week before she was expected to be back in her own dorm with Cyren, part of her didn’t want to wait until the end of the week as she had missed being in her dorm and missed spending time with her best friend. But then she also didn’t want to leave the temporary dorm, she wanted to stay there and have Dan close by for when she needed him. “A week isn’t going to very long,” She looked at him knowing that she couldn’t do anything to change this, besides it was probably best for both herself and Cyren to be back in their dorm. Be somewhere familiar and comfortable to them, it’d be especially good for Cyren.

"And no matter where you're staying or sleeping- if you need me, then you need me. And I'll be there for you. And if nothing else, Cyren will be there. Things will... Will start to get back to normal. And no matter what, I'll still be here for you. Might take me a little longer than a few seconds to get to you- but I'll always be there." Dan spoke to her in a low voice, keeping their conversation just between them and no one else. He didn’t need to tell her anything, Marlee knew that he would always find a way to her if and when she needed him. Of course when she was in her dorm, it would take him longer but she was positive that he would find a way to her. “I know,” Her voice was a whisper as her clear blue eyes focused on him, focused on his strong jaw line and the light scruff that was beginning to grow back. “I won’t be able to make it to you though, just so we’re clear on that. Unless you want to wait for thirty or so minutes, if I don’t get caught that is.” A smile slid onto her face as she looked at the handsome vampire standing in front of her, she still couldn’t believe that he was her boyfriend.

Feeling his lips press against her’s for a soft kiss which she happily returned, even if it was a risk. He wouldn’t have risked them getting caught if he knew someone was close by them, “Dan…” She breathed once he had pulled back as it had still surprised her that he had been so bold, “I’ll be okay.” Or at least she thought she would be okay after everything that has happened, she really just hoped that things didn’t get any worse for the school or the community. She wasn’t sure if she could deal with anything else happening, she looked up at him noticing the change in his body. He straightened himself out as his body tensed, his actions caused Marlee to turn around when she heard the footsteps. She had expected to see some students or a professor, not the lady that the Headmaster introduced in the dining hall.

Marlee listened to the lady’s voice and suddenly felt very small compared to Adaria, it was obvious she held power and was influential in what she did for the community. Hearing the question Marlee wasn’t sure if she should tell Adaria anything, she didn’t know this woman and certainly didn’t hold any trust for her. Instead she found herself glancing to Daniel for guidance, once he gave a short nod of his head Marlee looked back to the beautiful leader. “He only wants one thing, power… He isn’t as powerful as he’d like to be, but he knows he will be with me by his side. This school isn’t safe as long as I’m here,” It was blunt but it was the truth, she knew what went on in her father’s mind. It was the reason why he tricked her into breaking the protection spell on the school gates, he wasn’t strong enough to do it himself so he tricked Marlee into it. She wasn’t sure what Adaria would do with that information, she doubted anyone would allow for her to be kicked out of the school or used to gather information on the Rebellion. The school wasn’t that desperate, for now. “If I can’t stop him or get through to him that he doesn’t have to be like this, no one can.” She added on as she felt like that was enough, Adaria didn’t need to know everything about the Hudson family. She’d tell Daniel or Cyren before she told a stranger, she also wasn’t comfortable being near the leader of the soldiers and found herself slightly inching her way backwards so she could be closer to her boyfriend.

Cyren Nielsen | Hellhound


She watches as he recedes into his own mind, and she wonders what he's mulling over. Perhaps he's tussling with the same guilt that bitters her very being. Perhaps he's reliving his worst memories, brought up to her in an attempt to soothe her anger. Perhaps he's just as exhausted as Cyren, and she doesn't ask. She simply remains close to him, holding onto his hand and wading through her own mind. It's a bog of quicksand and mud, threatening to weigh her down, and drown the young hellhound. But then he's back and his gaze turns onto her's with a delicate sort of promise written there. ''I'll be safe.'' The words fall from his lips and it brings a sense of relief to Cyren. She doesn't think they've seen the last of the Rebellion. She can feel that in her marrow. And when they come back, Cyren doesn't know if she could handle losing anymore friends. The very thought turns her stomach to the point of nausea. “I have to be safe. I have someone to come back to now, His words are quiet, gentle and they soothe and alleviate some of her agitation.

''Don't you forget it. And Finn, I don't... It doesn't make a difference to me what you've done before, y'know? You're here now and you're you. That's all anyone could want.'' She doesn't know if that had been weighing on him- but Cyren didn't want it to. After all the other night when she had been smeared in blood that was a mix of her's and other's; Finn hadn't blanched. He had taken care of her, made sure she was okay. And so far, he hadn't treated her any differently. She hoped he knew that what he'd told her hadn't changed anything for her. “If it gets too hard for you. Let me know or tell the Headmaster, I’m sure you can be given time off or you can study here.” It's a tempting offer, and Cyren has to think on it for a moment. She knows going back is going to be hell either way. The only thing she questioned was her level of control. Would she be ready to go back? The last thing she wanted was to accidentally burn Finn's classroom down or something.

Silence carries on for a moment and the sound of the bed creaking fills the room as she shifts her weight. ''I still need to graduate. The sooner I do that, the sooner I can take a break from all this... Get away from the Rebellion and the Community for awhile. So I may as well go to class. Or try. If it gets too much I'll leave. I can't hide from reality forever in here.’’ Her voice is a sigh, a barely above a grumble. Slender fingers tap against her hip as she fidgets- a nervous habit. “I’ll do whatever I can to make this easier for you,” It's a nice gesture, and she counts herself lucky to have this kind of support. ''Well, I mean you could just wave my homework for forever.'' Cyren teases. They're still leaned against each other and despite the slight chill in her room, worsened by her sensitivity to temperatures, is staved off by his welcomed warmth. This is cozy, comfortable. It affords Cyren a small relief from her otherwise internal struggles. A small reprieve from the hellie that paces beneath her skin.

Touches that were gentle, welcomed distractions from the inner turmoil she was trying to fiercely to sort through. With a soft sigh Cyren blinks wearily. She's once again aware of how exhausted she is. It's been difficult- sleep. Fear of what her dreams will showcase will give her trouble sleeping for weeks to come. It's death that haunts her, and images of slashed throats and gutted fae that keep her awake. It's the mental image of Greg's accusing gaze, clouded and vacant in the face of quietus. ''Finn... Do you think there's actually something you could help me with?'' She turns so her gaze floats to his, and a trepidation fills them. ''I... I think I'm going to just go visit some of the witch professors. To see if they can help me with a sleeping brew. Like what Marlee has. I'm tired but I just don't want to sleep because of dreams- but if they can help me not dream then problem solved. For now.'' Cyren explains, worry lines creasing her forehead. She has never liked those damned witches. Mostly because of how snooty they could get with not only the Fae; but with other breeds as well.''Would you mind coming with me?''

________________________________________________________________

Daniel Roberts | Vampire


There's an intensity to Adaria that he hadn't noticed at first, in the way she watched someone the way a hawk would a mouse; a flatness that made his hair rise up. And while she wasn't particularly tall in stature, she was fierce. She held a warriors stance. And there was yet one more thing that Dan could not help but notice. She too, was a vampire. The scent of sickly sweet blood clung to her, making his gums itch and throat thicken. Dan would have to take care to feed later. “He only wants one thing, power… He isn’t as powerful as he’d like to be, but he knows he will be with me by his side. This school isn’t safe as long as I’m here,” To her credit, Marlee speaks undaunted, confident. The hallway is dead besides the small trio. For a moment Daria says nothing. Her gaze narrows slightly as if in thought. ''This school would be a strategic capture. It would serve as a stronghold, a treasure trove of new recruits, and a show of force. No one's ever dared drag this school into a war. It's been seen as a sanctuary. But I'm sure you know that.'' To his surprise, Daria rebuffs Marlee before Dan can.

''Anyway, if I truly thought you could stop the bloodshed before it happens- I'd deliver you myself.'' There's a cool note of aridness to her tone that makes Dan want to bare his fangs. But he figures she's trying to help... In her own way. ”If I can’t stop him or get through to him that he doesn’t have to be like this, no one can.” Marlee adds and ever so slowly inches back towards Dan. Her gaze doesn't change. It's still heavy and flat and intense, as if she'd already figured that out. As if Marlee was just confirming some sort of profile on Thomas Hudson. ''Well, if he's brazen enough to bring his filth here- The Community's soldiers are here to stop it. And tell me Miss Hudson, what do you plan to do if your father marches here? Some of the staff suggest you would help your father... But I disagree.'' Her honesty is... well brutal. But not quite cruel. ''Miss Hudson wouldn't do a thing to endanger the well-being of her school, classmates, or professors.'' Dan cuts in, sharp and edged. He almost regrets speaking at once as her gaze slides towards him for the first time.

''Professor Roberts. I'm quite aware of that. It was simply a question, I don't think Marlee has it in her to betray the school. She doesn't strike me as her father's daughter in that regard.'' Adaria's dark gaze doesn't leave his, and she narrows as if trying to figure something out. But with a shrug she seems to lose interest in the conversation. ''Well, it's been enlightening talking to both of you. I hope you don't mind my questions, I'm simply trying to build profiles of all the staff and students here. Old habits die hard I suppose. Enjoy your day.'' She begins to walk pass them though pauses at Marlee's side. ''Miss Hudson, I do apologize sincerely for the loss of your classmate. He seems well liked by all who knew him.'' And like that she's gone- silently retreating and leaving Dan's head spinning. He pauses, waits until she's out of earshot before sighing heavily. ''She's... A bit strange.'' He finally comments.

Concerned orbs, comprised of hues of soil and amalgamated shards of honey fall back to Marlee. ''Are you alright? She seemed a little... Intense. Even for a vampire. I wonder what exactly her position in the Community is.'' Somehow he doubted she dealt with students and teens very much. He pauses glancing towards the windows and nudges Marlee. ''Well, before we were interrupted, I was wondering if you wanted to take a walk in the courtyards? Some fresh air might do us both some good- and there's no point of being cooped up inside.'' It was a beautiful night. He thought that perhaps some time beneath the stars and the moon would be a nice way to unwind. To process all the shit that had just happened. The possibility of Cyren losing control of her hellhound, Greg's death, and of course the Rebel attack. ''Or we could watch a movie. Whatever you feel comfortable with.'' He offers, in case the walk through the courtyards doesn't sound appealing to his enchanting fairy companion. Though Dan figured it may do her some good. Get out of the school and get some fresh-air. Away from all the chatter of Greg and his death and the troubles the school was facing.

Finn Huxley | Basilisk


Listening to Cyren’s voice soothed him greatly, she didn’t care about the things he had done in his past. Of course, she didn’t fully know what he had done with his life before he met her. But it didn’t seem to matter to her, he didn’t think it would have but there was always a chance that she would run for the hills if she did know. She wasn’t like that though, Finn knew this deep down but telling her about his life still caused him panic. “Thank you,” He whispered as his thumb gently moved over the soft skin of her hand, the warmth that her hand gave him was comforting and nice to have. He wanted to wrap her body in his arms, hold her close until she didn’t need him that close. But he wasn’t sure if that would cause him to over step a line, he wasn’t sure if she would be comfortable with that so he continued to just hold her hand. Which was more than enough for him right now.

''I still need to graduate. The sooner I do that, the sooner I can take a break from all this... Get away from the Rebellion and the Community for a while. So I may as well go to class. Or try. If it gets too much I'll leave. I can't hide from reality forever in here. Well, I mean you could just wave my homework for forever.'' Cyren teased as she finished her sentence, she was right. She needed to graduate so she could move on from the school and start living her life, get away from the Rebellion and the Community. Both of which sounded wonderful to Finn right now, after what happened during the attack that the Rebels caused. “Sadly I can’t wave your homework, that is part of the graduation process. But I’d be more than happy to help you with any homework, if you need me.” He knew Cyren was smart enough to pass all her subjects with flying colours, but she might need him if she was struggling with her concentration or focusing on the school work that she needed to get done.

''I... I think I'm going to just go visit some of the witch professors. To see if they can help me with a sleeping brew. Like what Marlee has. I'm tired but I just don't want to sleep because of dreams- but if they can help me not dream then problem solved. For now. Would you mind coming with me?'' Cyren’s light voice echoed inside his ears, he had been waiting for her to bring this up. Although he only agreed to her taking a sleeping potion for right now, he hoped she wouldn’t become dependent on having a potion so she could sleep. “Of course, I’ll come with you.” His gaze never left her’s as he spoke, he’d keep an eye on how many potions she took. She still needed to deal with Greg’s death, come to terms with what happened and realise that she isn’t to blame. But until she got to that stage, a sleeping potion would help her sleep so she could attend class.

“Did you want to see the witches now?” He asked as they didn’t have anything else they had to do, he would also feel better if he took her to see the witches. They would listen to him rather than Cyren, he was certain the witches would make Cyren a potion if he wasn’t there. But it would be easier to convince the witches if he accompanied the Hellhound, staying close to her as his hands rested on her hips. Leaning even closer he gently rested his forehead against her’s, “Besides I’ll need to save the witches from how sharp your tongue can get.” Finn teased with an easy grin on his face.

---

Marlee Hudson | Fairy


Marlee just wanted Adaria to leave, to leave her alone and to stop talking to her. She wasn’t comfortable being there and felt slightly attacked by Adaria’s questions, although she tried her hardest to not allow those feelings show through. She stayed silent when Daniel spoke up in her defence, she knew that he shouldn’t have but she was also glad that he did. He had her back and would protect her, even if Adaria was just asking her questions about her father. She didn’t bother watching as Adaria walked away from them, she wanted to forget all about what happened but she couldn’t. Nodding was all she could do when he asked if she was okay, she hadn’t quite found her voice.

''Well, before we were interrupted, I was wondering if you wanted to take a walk in the courtyards? Some fresh air might do us both some good- and there's no point of being cooped up inside.” Dan asked which Marlee would be more than happy to agree with, “No. Let’s take a walk,” She hoped the fresh air would clear her mind, so turning around she continued to walk through the hallway with the handsome vampire right by her side. It wasn’t long until he was holding a door open for her, stepping outside Marlee instantly inhaled the cool night air into her lungs. She stayed silent once again as they walked along the stone path, a few minutes later they reached a hidden spot in the courtyard. A wooden bench awaited them as growing ivy covered a piece of lattice which helped hide them from any prying eyes, sitting down Marlee looked to her boyfriend.

“You wouldn’t let anyone hand me over to my father, right? I’m nothing like him, you know that. I’d never help him, why would anyone think I would?” Tears welled in her icy blue orbs, she hadn’t even thought once that professors would think that she’d willingly help her father. She hadn’t done anything to make anyone think like that, or at least Marlee didn’t think she had done anything. She wasn’t herself when she broke the spell on the school gates, her father had been tricking her. Surely no one was blaming her for that, but apparently there were people amongst her that were thinking of her in that way. She didn’t want to be with her father, that would be her nightmare but now she was scared that the school would kick her out because she was putting the staff and students at risk.

Biting down onto her bottom lip, she looked at Daniel as the tears threatened to fall down her cheeks. She was thankful that it was Daniel with her, if Cyren knew what Adaria had suggested then there was a high chance Marlee would need to break up a fight between a Hellhound and a Vampire. Something she never wanted to see, normally comments like that wouldn’t have made the fae cry. But considering what happened during the Rebellion attack and losing Greg, her emotions were all over the place and Adaria had pushed the blonde fae over the edge.

Cyren Nielsen | Hellhound


The school was an atmosphere of apprehension and unease by the time that Friday, Greg's memorial, rolled around. The past week had been nothing short of strenuous for the hellie to get through. And though she tried to keep the facade she was fine, it didn’t change the fact that each day felt like an uphill battle to remain in control of herself. More times than not the past week, the brunette had felt herself teetering on that edge of darkness that burned her mind. Just the right push and she'd plunge over, into that abyss Cyren could sense within herself. The thing inside which had always frightened her. Classes were rough, though none more than English and History. It felt like a punch in the gut each time she sat in those classes, Nix's and Greg's seats remaining empty. Yes, his death around the school was a reminder she could not forget, even if she wanted to. But thankfully the teachers hadn't pushed Cyren too much this week, as if they could sense that she was not in her best state. Hell, half the kids at the school were in the same shape she was. And the restlessness that had filled the school like a sickness was imposing upon everyone.

The past week, if Cyren hadn't had Marlee and Finn- even Dan who tried to help in his small ways, the brunette didn't think she'd of made it through without some sort of incident from her beast.And through all of her moods, her distance from others, there had been Finn. It had fallen to routine, for him to sleep with her each night. The sturdy, steady beating of his heart had become something of a comfort, a sort of lullaby just for the Hellie as she'd lay curled against him waiting for the potions prescribed to her by the witches to kick in. She'd grown used to the way his fingers would gently trace intangible patterns on her skin, helping her mind relax enough for sleep. And to his part, Finn never complained. He never turned her away and always offered her an ear should Cyren need to vent. And after he'd disclosed his own troubled past to her, Cyren felt that perhaps... perhaps he was a little more comfortable around her. A little more open. And he was enough to abate the darkness that danced on the fringe of her mind, to keep the Hellhound locked within the confines of her slippery control. Though soon that would come to an end. Cyren had been told by Marlee they were moving back to their dorms.

And even though that would mean she wouldn't be able to use Finn as a crutch, as much as she had been anyways, Cyren would be back with Marlee. And she was actually really looking forward to being reunited with her best friend and dorm mate. As much as Finn helped with keeping the darkest parts of Cyren under wraps, Marlee had her own ways of helping Cyren stay Cyren. The hellie had missed sharing a room with the Fae and it would be so much easier to keep an eye on her while they were sharing a room. With the Rebellion still out there, and Marlee's quest of finding out if Hamish was truly a Rebellion soldier or not, 'Cy found herself worrying about the Fae more often than not these days. The times were dangerous, and any way Cyren sliced it Marlee was in danger. From her father, from his control of the Rebels, and now from Hamish possibly? Cyren was doing what she could to help Marlee's investigation, kept secret from Finn and Dan, but in the state the brunette was in now...? What she could do still wasn't much. She felt useless in all this, like all she could do was hold her breath and do her best not to make matters worse. Today had been one of those days. Greg's memorial hadn't been easy for anyone.

It had started early in the morning, an assembly of somber staff and students clad in black, while pretty words were spoken about the fallen draconian. Cyren had managed to get a seat next to Marlee towards the back of the gym, and over his hour long memorial tuned in and out, her mind drifting to darker things. Like what to do about the threat of the rebellion, which was still out there somewhere. God knew what their next move would be. By the end of it all, Cyren was just felt exhausted. Drained even. That day had been a heavy burden for her. But thankfully, Marlee had been there for her, not once leaving Cyren's side. Currently the two were in the West Wing's common room, Cyren taking space on the couch with Marlee on the love seat adjacent. Thankfully because of the memorial, there weren't really many students in the room giving the two privacy. Cyren's slender fingers tap absentmindedy against her thigh, her gaze focused on the black leather of the couch. ''Marlee...'' She speaks for what feels like the first time that day without being prompted. At once her friend's warm gaze falls upon her and Cyren shifts so she's sitting upright.

''How are you getting along with everything? With Hamish, and the Rebellion stuff?" The question is light, one can almost miss the concern in Cyren's voice as she addresses Marlee. While she knew their investigation had to be done, it worried Cyren to think that something could happen to Marlee. If the girls were right about him, and Cyren was almost certain they were, there was no telling how he would react if he found out the two were suspicious about him. What if he hurt Marlee? That was a thought she couldn't stand to stomach. ''I... Do you really think it's a bad idea to tell Dan? He could maybe... help or something.'' She suggests voice quavering a bit, ''-Since I can't really do much at the moment...'' The disappointment and twinge of guilt is a tangible thing in her voice. It's the worst thing in the world for the hellhound, feeling like she was frozen. Too scared to try to accesses that hound in her mind, terrified that would give the beast control, but she knew she couldn't stay on the sidelines for long. The Rebels weren't done with them. That's why the soldiers were still there. ''I'm not saying you couldn't do it, I'm just... I just don't want something like Thomas happening again because we tried to fix everything ourselves without letting Dan or Finn know.''
___________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

Daniel Roberts | Vampire


His week had been long. The classes had been thrown out of line with all the chaos happening around the school. Students walked around like any day could be their last. There were wide-eyed glances and frantic hushed whispers that filled the cafeteria. That was just the students- the staff were just as bad. An art teacher and a math teacher had quit. Wanted to get faraway before the fighting started. The rest of the staff had become divided. There were some who felt that handing a few students over was better than dragging them all through hell. The other half of the staff, Dan included, were horrified by this idea. Then there was the Community. While their presence served to protect- it had the opposite effect on the school. Students regarded the soldiers with fear. Teachers found their presence to be at the very least disruptive. But who Dan found more and more unsettling? Adaria herself. He had noticed it a couple days after her talk with Marlee, but he knew the woman was observing not only Marlee, but Cyren too.

That was a whole other list of worries. He knew that Adaria likely already identified those two as special interests to the Rebellion, but it made the vampire worry. What if Finn couldn't help Cyren keep a hold of herself? Or what if Adaria changed her mind and she thought bringing Marlee to her father on some silver platter would stop the fighting? Dan had sworn to the Fae he wouldn't let anyone take her. And he would stand by that promise. But it made him uneasy. The seeds of discontent and worry had been sown into this school and he was worried about the tensions brewing. But even with all that somehow everyone made it to Friday. To Greg's memorial. It had been hard to sit through. Hard to hear how he was really never coming back. It wasn't some sick joke. Greg and Nix weren't waiting to jump out of a closet and yell surprise at the school. Dan had lost a good student, and he was all too determined not to lose more.

The memorial had drawn to a close about an hour ago, and Dan had found himself in his classroom, pretending to just read over papers. He couldn't get his mind to focus, not with everything that was going on. With a soft sigh he sits back in his chair, running a single hand through his already uncharacteristically messy locks of hair. The silence of his empty classroom had wore down on the vampire and with a small sigh stood leaving his papers at his desk. He could grade them later. He'd seen Marlee and Cyren head off once the memorial was over, and he would let them have their privacy. Instead as he strode through the halls, his steps filled with purpose, he made his way to where he figured Finn would be. Soon enough he arrived at the professor's room and sure enough the dark-eyed male was sitting at his desk. Dan softly knocked on the door frame as he stepped through gaining the snake's attention.

''Hey man.'' The greeting is sighed as Dan lets himself further into the room, sitting on top of one of the desks across from Finn's. ''I'm sorry for dropping by your classroom unannounced but I figured no one should really be alone today.''Finn is one of the few professors, well people for that matter, Dan would consider a friend. One of the few he felt comfortable being around right now. He's quiet for a few minutes, exhaling raggedly after awhile. ''Maybe things will start to settle down now. Try to get back into routine. Though I doubt things will really feel normal around here for awhile.'' Dan speaks, avoiding the elephant in the room at first, his arms folded across his broad chest. He wants to ask how the other teacher is doing, but Dan knows it's a stupid question. No one is really doing well at the moment. But he knows everyone will be okay. That's what Dan has to believe. And he knows Finn is an adult, he can handle himself.

Finn Huxley | Basilisk


Getting through the week had been hard on everyone, students and professors alike. Finn managed better than most as he hadn’t known Greg for as long as others, he was still broken about the boy’s death. Greg had quickly become one of Finn’s favourite students, because Finn knew Greg could have had a very bright and successful future. And the way in which Greg died, that is what caused rage to fill Finn’s body whenever he would think about that night. If only Greg had asked for help sooner, if only someone had noticed him sooner and actually paid attention to him rather than students and professors who had obvious wounds from the fight. All of Greg’s damage was internal, Finn blamed himself because that night all he worried about was finding Cyren and making sure she was safe. He became blinded by his feelings for the brunette, something that he promised himself would never happen again.

Finn hadn’t focused on anything during Greg’s memorial as he knew how amazing the kid had been, he didn’t need to listen to the kind words that had been spoken about him. So as soon as it ended, Finn made his way to his classroom. He knew Cyren needed some time with Marlee, right now all the Hellhound needed was her best friend. So Finn stayed away until he knew Cyren needed or wanted his company, he thought he might get some marking done but all he did at his desk was stare at the paper in his hands. He wasn’t even reading the words, it all meshed into one big blur as he stared intently on the piece of white paper. Thankfully a distraction came in the form of a vampire, glancing up his dark eyes found a friend in the doorway of his classroom. There weren’t many people around the school that Finn could tolerate right now, but Daniel was one of the few so Finn was glad it was the vampire knocking on his door.

“It’s all good, man. I don’t know why I’m even bothering to try and mark papers,” He spoke as Dan moved further into the room, Finn rested his back into the chair as he abandoned the idea of marking papers. “I hope things calm down now, I’ve been trying to get Cyren into a somewhat regular routine but her emotions are all over the place at the moment. Understandably so, but I also don’t know who well her being in class is doing. Especially our classes, she still sits at the same desk. Beside Nix and Greg’s,” A heavy sigh escaped Finn’s lips as he was stuck on what he should do, he wanted Cyren in a routine but then he knew her being in classes that she shared with the twins was not helping her deal with the death of her good friend.

Finn had thought about taking his class outside or to the school library, anywhere that wasn’t in his classroom because that is where so many students held memories about Greg. But he also knew right now might not be the best time to suddenly change where his students would meet, in case there was another attack then it might cause his students to be easily confronted by the Rebellion. “Today at his memorial, it all made it real. The Rebellion actually took one of our students away from us, took someone so young. And now the soldiers are here terrifying the students even more, Adaria is already on my nerves and I’ve seen her watching the girls. If she says anything to Cyren…” Finn’s sentence dropped as he didn’t want to threaten the life of a Community soldier in front of anyone, but if Adaria spoke to Cyren or went too close to the Hellhound then Finn wouldn’t think twice about ripping the vampire into pieces.

---

Marlee Hudson | Fairy


Marlee had curled herself up on the loveseat, her head resting against the back of the lounge as her eyes were shut. Although she was still taking her potions from the witches and she was sleeping soundly through the night, that morning had been draining on her. To the point where she was almost asleep, until Cyren’s voice sounded in the empty common room. Turning her head, she looked over at her best friend. “It’s good so far, I think I’ve started to make progress now.” Marlee had taken her time with Hamish, but yesterday she felt like she came a long way in getting to the bottom of what Hamish was really doing and if his family were all members of The Rebellion. Marlee had been outside in the courtyard on her own, she knew it was a place that Hamish liked to go on his own when he needed space to himself. Although she had ended up making herself cry as she had been replaying the night of the attack in her mind, trying to find a way in which she could have helped more or done more after the Rebels left the school grounds.

Hamish had found her and actually acted like a decent human being, although Marlee did remember how he always hated when she would cry so that was probably the reason he was being nice to her. “He talked to me yesterday, without either of us getting angry and yelling at each other.” She explained to her best friend as she wanted to keep Cyren filled in on how she was going with their investigation, Marlee then shook her head lightly. “I don’t really think you’d get much information from him, you can’t suddenly start being nice to him. Besides even if you tried, you’d both get angry and a fight would break out. I’d rather not have you break some of his bones,” Marlee smiled softly at the Hellhound because that is what would happen if Cyren went near Hamish, and Marlee didn’t really feel like breaking up another fight between the two of them.

Then Cyren brought up them telling either Dan or Finn, the question caused Marlee to bite down onto her bottom lip as she thought about it. “I don’t know… I don’t think Hamish would hurt me, but if Dan knew then he’d try to stop us. He’d think it’s too dangerous or stupid… what do you think Finn would do?” Marlee asked as she wasn’t as close to Professor Huxley as what Cyren was, if Cyren thought Finn would help them then she would agree to tell him. But then he was also friends with Dan, so he’d need to be comfortable keeping a secret from his friend which Marlee wasn’t sure he could or would want to do. But this was something that Marlee needed to do, even if she did it completely on her own. Out of them, Dan and Finn, Hamish trusted her the most. She had been close with his family, their parents had been good friends from their children dating. It all came down onto Marlee’s shoulders, and she would find out what his family were up to.

Cyren Nielsen | Hellhound


As Marlee begins to fill Cyren in on the progress she was making with Hamish, the cerulean eyed Hellhound sits up a bit straighter. Even before the Rebellion, or Greg's death, Cyren had disliked the werewolf. There had in her mind, always been something slimy about the arrogant teenager; and Cyren wouldn't trust him as far as she could throw him. And while every instinct in Cyren wanted desperately to do more to help her friend, she knew Marlee was right. Cyren and Hamish had never gotten along with one another, and if the Hellhound were to be nice to him now it would just raise more suspicion in the werewolf and the girls' plan would be ruined. "I find it hard to believe that thick-skulled bully is capable of anything other than yelling. But... Yes bones would probably be broken, which would be a bit counterproductive to us." The words are half-muttered and rather dry, and a matching distaste stains the edges of Cyren's lips.

Perhaps its the recent loss of a friend that makes Cyren's gut twist with worry over the situation, though she knows if Hamish felt backed into a corner it was likely he'd try to hurt her fae friend. Pushing herself to sit up a little straighter, her steady gaze remains on Marlee as she dismisses Dan's help. Cyren can't blame her though to be honest. The moment Dan thought that Marlee was in danger... Well Cyren pitied the idiot who threatened Marlee in the first place. "What do you think Finn would do?" The question hangs over the pair for a moment, the Hellhound gently biting at her bottom lip in quiet contemplation. She had noticed that he and Dan were friends, and she doubted he'd be thrilled about keeping such a secret from the dark eyed vampire. Hell, she doubted he would be thrilled that Cyren and Marlee were putting themselves in such a situation. Slowly the brunette shakes her head, "I... Don't think he'd be thrilled. If things start to get out of hand though, I also think he'd help." This presents a whole new set of challenges though; surely Dan would at least find it befuddling should he find out Marlee and Hamish were talking civilly in the first place, much less get along.

"I'll think we'll have to be careful though, Dan would probably be curious at least to know why you're being nice to Hamish or getting along with him. To the outside eye anyway." Hell, it'd be a little weird if Dan didn't feel oddly about that. Cyren falls into silence, a trouble shadow setting into her gaze of amalgamated stone and sapphire. The other thing she had been considering as of late, was what if they were right? Did they go to the soldiers? The Headmaster? What would happen to the sniveling wolf? Not that Cyren particularly cared, but the thought of the Community soldiers dragging him off to some torturous unknown fate was a little unsettling. But worst of all? What happened if they were right and Hamish gave up Thomas' location? Cyren had no question of Marlee's loyalty to the school and the individuals here; but she also knew despite all the shit Thomas had done that was still Marlee's father, her flesh and blood. How would it make Marlee feel, potentially having to confront her father, or help the soldier's find him? Cyren knew that this was no easy task for her best friend, and she hated the helplessness that sloshed in her stomach.

A thin little frown sours her lips as the full gravity of this plan of their's begins to sink in. It still needed to be done, if this was a way to get some justice from Greg then Cyren would do what it took. She just knew this was going to be difficult in many different regards. "Have you thought about what happens if Hamish is with the Rebellion and knows where your father is, or something that will help the community find him?" The words are imbued with a soft sense of empathy and concern as Cyren's gaze turns over Marlee's face. "I know hes done awful things... But I also know he's still your father." As she studies Marlee's face, Cyren notes the exhaustion. Frankly the brunette doesn't blame the gentle-hearted fae. The past few months have been trying for Marlee, let alone the memorial today for their fallen Draconian friend. And if the sinking feeling in Cyren's stomach was any indication, she doubted the next few months would be any easier.

___________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

Daniel Roberts | Vampire


Dan's quiet as he steps a bit further into Finn's classroom, shutting the door behind him. The last thing he needed in this mess was for some student or soldier to overhear the two professors discussing these new issues and hardships brought on by the Rebellion. "Yeah. Didn't have much luck going over my lesson plan for Monday." The vampire offers a dry smile, and leans against one of the desks in the front row, crossing his arms. "I hope things calm down now, I've been trying to get Cyren into a somewhat regular routine but her emotions are all over the place at the moment." The update on the Hellhound isn't exactly assuring of her mental state, though it's also to be expected. To be fair however, the vampire suspects she'd be in a much worse place had it not been for Finn. "She has a tendency of just shutting down. I suspect it'll take her a bit to really be okay in class again; but I don't think that's going to be an uncommon thing for the students. I think they all just need a bit of time. Just gotta do our bests in the meantime for them." There's a note of sympathy in Dan's voice as he examines the other professor. It's obvious how much the basilisk cares for the waifish brunette, and how much he cares for her.

Honestly? It takes a little worry from Daniel's mind, though he still has plenty. Mostly about Marlee. This week he had noticed her talking to Hamish a couple of times. To his curiosity and light concern, there had been no yelling. No fighting. The two had seemed... civil which was unusual for the pair. Stranger still? Cyren hadn't chased Hamish off, though she'd been nearly glued to Marlee's side since the attack. Knowing the Hellhound was still intent on looking after Marlee is what gave the vampire a bit of ease, and was part of the reason he hadn't brought up his concerns to Marlee. He's pulled from his thoughts by Finn speaking and Daniel finds himself nodding along in agreement. "I think having them around makes the students more anxious about attacks. Kind of a constant visual reminder of all the shit going on outside the school." But again, what could they do? If the soldiers left and another attacked happened, there's no telling how many more would die or even if the school would remain open. For now at least, Dan knows the soldiers are needed at the school. At least while the threat of the Rebellion loomed over everyone's head.

Adaria is already on my nerves and I’ve seen her watching the girls. If she says anything to Cyren…” At the mention of Adaria however, Dan's soft gaze hardens into something cold and he narrows his eyes. The previous encounter he'd had with the svelte vampire, all but accusing Marlee of conspiring with her father rushes back to him and it makes his blood boil. Adaria was there to protect the students, not threaten the golden haired fae who had done nothing wrong, but have been the daughter of the fae behind the Rebellion. "I wouldn't be surprised if she pulls you or Cyren aside. Already did it to Marlee. Basically threatened to hand her over to her father, well if she thought that would actually stop the fighting." The same dark note of anger that had stained Finn's voice earlier can now be heard in Daniel's. Exhaling a bit thickly Dan quickly composes himself. "I would be careful around her. I don't think she's screwing around and I don't like to think what would happen if she thought anyone was a threat to this school." There was obvious distaste in Dan's voice at this as his nose wrinkles a bit. He has no doubt that Finn had every intention of carrying out his unspoken threat should Adaria try to mess with the lithe Hellhound.

It's exactly what he would do if she tried to come after Marlee. A heavy feeling hangs between the two professors before Dan exhales loudly, running a hand through his hair. "But these are all what if's. For now, they're both alright and they're safest here still. Adaria has no reason to go after either one, and the Rebellion won't come back. Not this soon at least." The assurance is offered with a little smile, one that the vampire doesn't entirely feel. "And the Headmaster is still in charge around here. I don't see him just letting Adaria run this school as she pleases." At least, Daniel hoped. He knew the leader of the Community army was influencial, but the Headmaster still had the final say of what happened at the school. And while Daniel didn't trust nor particularly like the Community vampire, he did trust the Headmaster to make the right choices for his students and school.