a frozen fire

[+ Lithium +]

Pheonix lay where he had fallen, Tempest--who stood several strides away--seemed unphased and grazed lazily down the hillside on what scarce vegetation there was. But Pheonix did not immediately rise. His body ached from head to toe and he was vaguely aware of the severe cold and shudders that wreaked current havoc upon his fragile human system. It was a cold that would never kill him, but would forever plague him, and thus he welcomed the scant few rays of the sun that filtered in with the dawn--they provided little warmth, but their feeble fire was enough to sooth the waning vigor that was slowly fading from his soul. A tournicate of sorts was wrapped around his mind as he faded in and out, letting the pain from the previous night's condition fade away with the dark. The throbbing pain within his head, did not subside and he squinted against the curse and raised himself to a sitting position. His back, slouched and weary sat there with no complaints as he rubbed the anger from his eyes and moved the wrath from his hands. He could never remember what he did overnight, he never really wanted to know--but he was always worried about what he would find. His greatest fear was to harm Anemone--something he would kill himself in order to avoid doing. Though she played it off with vigorous stubbornness, he loved her deeply and could not bear to stand the thought of losing her to something as unpredictable as a nightly horror. And so, that's what brought him to the secluded valley of the skeleton's forest. His eyes wearily took in the scene, observing the absence of blood or smoke with relief even as the grim, dreary obstacles that surrounded him were far from releiving. The dismal environment, smelled of old ash and putrid sulfur, but only a few white drifts of earthly cloudes wavered where their masses fell. For it is well known that snow does not last long on a constantly venting mountainside.

Drawing himself to gether, he found the soul of his strength and gently drew power from it, bringing warmth back into his hands, and adding a flush of color to his cheeks. He was so pale. Finding his strength, he stood with a loud audible sigh and stretched himself towards the heavens. Oh, there were times when he wished he could soar, but such times were not in his reach and he had no real goal to reach them. Sliding feet forward and pursuing a course of movement, the young fire mage made his way to Tempest's side. The war horse fidgetting, unwilling to bear a rider through his own stiff limbs. Yet, Pheonix insisted, and within a few rebellious moments on Tempest's part they were trotting at a swift and constant pace back towards the small town in which he had asked Anemone to stay while his night venture's began. He was deathly tired and would hope to rest in the inn they had found in order to sleep away the pain and labor. He hoped Anemone would still be there, it was always nice to see her about, he enjoyed her company--as much of a spitfire as she is--and hated the idea of leaving her alone with so many men for her to taunt and tease. Indeed, he trusted her enough, but he could not help but feel a jealousy to those who even thought they had a chance with her. Being as protective as he is, he was similiarly angered and venomous towards those who would try--dare I say try--to overpower and take advantage of her loneliness. But since when did Anemone ever listen to him?

He broke out in smile. He certainly would believe that if she so desired she'd strolled about the town as if it were hers. She was a smart girl, and it was one of the things that attracted him so. Her wild red hair and vibrant personality gave him a reason to live every morning--gave him a reason to live.

Keeping at that steady pace... he reached the inn by half-morn--thus leaving himself four hours to rest and refresh until noontime.

[an]

She awoke before the sun, leaning her back against the headboard, bare body wrapped and tangled in the white fabric of the bedsheets. She gazed at the bed she was in, made for two, but always occupied by one. The right side, always left for Phoenix, left bare. Anemone frowned lightly, looking out the window, where the sky was still dark. Sighing, she slid out of the bed, sheets and all, and padded towards the bathroom to shower. Steam filled the bathroom as she stared at herself in the mirror, slight bags under her eyes that the makeup hadn't concealed yet. SHe had to wonder if he was okay. Anemone emerged from the shower an hour later, wardrobe and makeup already applied. Her hair was let down today, to dry in the sun that had just now made it's appearance. Her white shirt was stained with water droplets and her nipples pressed against the white cloth.

Surveying the room she found nothing more she needed and headed out after putting on her boots and grabbing her belt. The air was so cold her breath was visible as she sauntered through the lobby. She shoved open the front door of the hotel and found it stuck. "Come on, what the hell did they put out here, a dragon?" Taking a step back she rammed the door with her elbow, pushing it off the hinges, much to the clerks dismay. She found a sleeping bum rolled a few feet away, obviously over intoxicated. He moaned and sat up, rubbing his head.

"You damn well know that if you fucking sleep where the doormat is you're gonna get walked over." Anemone crossed her arms and rolled her eyes, "Gees old-timer, at least sleep in the bar where they'll give you the decency of the sawdust." Digging into her pockets she threw a few coins at him, "Go sober up and eat, you know your family will wonder where the are, god knows why she still stays with you. The sun is rising, find a bed before the rooster crows like a dying cat." After hoisting the old man to his unbalanced feet, Anemone headed down the street.

A loaf of bread, a block of cheese, two apples, a box of sugar cubes, and she was set for the day. Anemone's choice of food was interesting, to say the least, but she knew that Tempest would like the sugar, and Phoenix would have to get what he could take. Loading the food into a spare travel bag she hoisted it over her neck so it rested on one shoulder. Anemone sat down on a barrel outside the hotel, eyeing the road on the horizon to see when Phoenix would emerge with his faithful steed. Cutting a slice of bread and cheese she munched on them slowly, the taste bland compared to the taste of his lips. "Stupid girl, he's just one damn man," she muttered. Anemone swore she was crazy, why did she wait for him, every single time, just to retire to an empty bed?

Then he emerged on the horizon and she jumped off the barrel. Leaving the food where it was her right arm shot up towards the heavens and she waved, smiling, as always. Her concerns for him would never be known. "About TIME!" she shouted to him, smirking.


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[+ Lithium +]

A young red haired man entered the town's main gates without so much as a second glance from passerby. His green eyes were tired and worn and his body was slouched from the previous night. The few who did take note to his presence saw him as little more than a tired traveller that had gone through the dark of night. If only he was as innocent as that. They were blissfully unaware of the danger's that now plagued their countryside. True, he had yet to harm or kill someone who was innocent, but he believed it was only a matter of time--only a matter of time.

He sighed and lifted his gaze from the road as he crested one of the major hills that stood before him and the inn. Gloriously behind him stood the sun and before him...? There, before him stood the woman who had stayed beside him through the turmoil of his curse and life itself. There stood the beautiful young woman whom he loved, whom he knew he could never abandon, leave behind, or harm. Her presence, her welcome and even the smirk upon her face was a welcomed sight and he pressed his heels against the black soldier's sides. They picked up a lifefilled loping gait that quickly crossed the remaining chasm of space.

Within a few paces of Anemone, he reined Tempest in and called the horse to a halt as he quickly dismounted and went to Anemone's side. Hesitating but a second to absorb her presence and beauty he suddenly embraced her and swept her from her feet, swinging her about for one revolution before returning her feet to the ground, he held her close, refusing to let her go. He was glad to see her, safe and energized--always safe.

He leaned down to her, his lips looking for hers in a welcoming kiss that was destined to be short, but still filled with the love and respect the two felt towards one another. Her warmth filled him and warmed his previously cold heart--and it was her welcoming voice that put the night behind him, and placed the day before him. As stated before, she kept him moving.

Tempest snorted a short distance away and tossed his head impatiently. As if he couldn't smell the delectibles that she had left behind her...

Releasing her, and returning her smirk with a smile of his own, he held her at arm's length so that he could better view her in the morning light that illuminated her so radiantly. Indeed, he noted the thin shirt she wore and how her breasts teased him; how her red hair seemed to come alive with fire and how her eyes blazed with a brilliance in the early sun that filled them. He shook his head, filled with her image and smiled warmly down to her, his own tired face flustered with passionate cares. He chuckled and slid beside her, latching one arm over her shoulders as he gathered Tempest's reins in his hand, kissing the top of her head with a light peck he whispered as he gathered his mount, "Yes, about time..." he chuckled as he let her go and moved to Tempest's side. He began to unbuckle his things and unlatch the tack from the mighty steed, but even so he continued, "I see you are already for the day, and here I am about to retire for a few more hours. How shall I ever keep up with you?" he teased jestingly he as tossed a sideways smirk in her direction. He loved their relationship, how teasing, sarcastic, and touch and go it was. There was always compassion in their jest, however, and this was what made them so close.

He fought so hard to keep her happy, keep her satisfied as he wasted his nights against his will. He still was not sure how happy she was at journeying towards Fuer-Bohrung to meet his old time and childhood friend. Luckily, the freedom of the full moon was but two nights away--the one night that occured every 28 days, where he was not affected by the cold nightly horror. It was the one night, she did not have to sleep alone.







ooc: I've decided to change his curse a bit, so that there will be some times when they can spend the night together

[an]

Seeing him approach on the horizon filled Anemone's heart with joy. His touch, she missed that the most, gasping and sighing as he picked her up and spun her once, her arms locked around his neck. He smelt of the sooth, but still of the forest from their many travels, he smelt like sweat, and pride of a man. She loved the scent he had, where her own scent lingered on him. Yes, Pheonix belonged with her, no other woman. His lips descended towards her, blush on her face, and her heart always beating quickly. Anemone loved how she could never be bored with him, always happy to see Phoenix no matter what they go through. Despite the fear, the relief of seeing him back always rekindled her flames for him.

As his lips descended she heard Tempest snort, her eyes daring towards him and she smirked. "Seems like your faithful stallion wants his just rewards, poor dear," digging into her side bag and waved a brown bag left to right, taunting the beautiful creature. "I bought you sugar cubes Tempest, you just make sure you always bring my man back to me and I'll give you all the sugar cubes in the world." She pressed herself up against Phoenix for emphasis, loving the warmth that radiated off of his muscular chest. He tended to his horse and she watched him carefully, leaning against the wall, finishing her piece of bread and cheese.

"I see you are already for the day, and here I am about to retire for a few more hours. How shall I ever keep up with you?"[

Huffing she stood akimbo, "You need to eat Pheonix, even if you are tired. Put some energy in that empty shell of yours, then sleep a couple more hours, I don't care, I just dont' want you limp later, how horrid would that be for me?" She sighed and resumed her spot on the wall, "If you have no energy I'd have to seek other means of living my sinful little fantasies elsewhere. You wouldn't want that, would you?" She jested of course, beacuse he knew she'd never settle for anyone other than him. "Besides, if you're tired, then you won't be much good when you find this so called brother of your past." Anemone didn't wait for an answer and began busying herself by reaching up and tying her hair behind her back in a braid she had no intention of holding there. But by raising her arms her white shirt did rise a little, giving him more of her cream colored skin to oogle at like a glutton.

"To be honest, I just want you to know that everytime you come home I have food and a bed waiting, like a wife would, I guess," she told him quietly, looking down at her feet. "I get to stay in a safe hotel, and rest all I want, eat what I want, while you go through hell each and every night. It's the least I can do for you, isn't it?" she looked up at him, for once not seeming like the lustful little nymph she usually was. Anemone cuffed the side of his cheek with her hand and smiled, "You're my most important person, I want to do my part to make sure you're happy." She didn't care if he was holding things or tending to Tempest, Tempest could wait, she stood and planted a warm kiss on his lips and brought him into her embrace.
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[+ Lithium +]

He smiled as his eyes continued to focus on removing the saddle from the loyal black horse, even as her words of recomendation and consolation reached his cautious ears.
Tempest meanwhile, gorged himself happily on the sugary pleasures that she offered him, and was content to stand. That was until the saddle slid from his back due to careless hands that could not grasp it in time before it slid unceremoniously to the ground--the blanket and leather in a jumbled heap. Grumpily, Pheonix waved his hand at it, and patted his snorting, wary friend.

He grinned at her threat and looked at as he momentarily abandoned the fallen heap. She was right. He was hungry, and food would do him well, of course so would sleep... He sighed and shrugged, noting the pale cream color of her skin as she lifted her arms to fix her hair. He chuckled, and turn his head, so as not to be tantalized by her words and gestures. She knew of his protectiveness and of his jealousy. Oh how she used it against him--the vixen of his passions. Besides.... silly girl... was she unaware that the dead of winter was upon them? Out with such simple attire...

He bent down to retreive his fallen things, the bedroll beneath his arm, the light leather over his fore, and the blanket drapped across his shoulder, but her words caught him. The gentleness in the tone worried him and turned to look at her, feeling a heavy guilt descend upon him as he wondered exactly what she went through each night he was gone. The refferance to a wife confused him, and he was unsure of the insertions intent. Was it a hint? Or a touch of distaste at the direction her life had begun to spin?

He turned to look at her in time for her to cuff his cheek gently. Still sorting through her words, he merely observed her face as she spoke... for he was unsure of exactly what to say in reply. Was she being sarcastic? Was she serious? was it a negetive tone, or a positive one... Whatever it was, it was soon lost in the passion that the two share as she embraced him suddenly. He accepted it, leaning into her kiss, as he let the materials in his hand slide from his shoulders.

Gently he took his hands and cupped her face as their bodies pressed together, creating a sudden and comfortable warmth. But he could not linger in this blessed silence of unspoken emotion and promise, he hesitantly pulled his lips from hers and simply held her to him, taking in the feel of her in his arms and letting her feel the security he offered. He asked nothing of her... ever. And he wanted her to know this. Even if she did not do all that she did... he would still be with her, still love her, always return to her. Her and only her.
He rested his chin upon the top of her head and gently whispered to her in reassuring tones;

"Listen to me... I love you for you, not because you do any of those things. Besides..." He pulled his chin back and looked down into her vibrant and fiery eyes, A wry smile tweaked the corners of his mouth, "... I have you to look forward to every morning, and that's makes 'hell' all the more worth it.

Indeed, he would take on this curse any day, in order for her to avoid it--for it was in truth a fate destined for her. But fate was deprived of its victim, and he was proud of doing what he did. Besides, the pain that wrought him every night during the transformation was years old now, and he was more callous to it now. Not to mention the fact that anything throughout the duration of the night was a black memory to him that he could not remember nor influence. It was but a small aspect of his life now, and he hated when it interfered with their conversation--when it poked its black and putrid skull up from the abyss, digging it's thorns into their relationship.

He let a peaceful silence descend behind his words as he held her for several moments more. But a frustrated sigh from the black horse behind him reminding him of his duties as a rider. He slowly pulled himself away from her and leaned down to reattain his things.
Grabbing the reins with his free hand, he leaned down to her once more and kissed her gently upon her full red lips, tasting the saltiness of her skin. When he disengaged he began to lead Tempest towards the inn's stables, where the brute could refresh himself. He looked back and called to Anemone.

"I promise I'll eat something before I rest, but I must ask... do you have plans for the morning?"

He was tired yes, but perhaps he would spend another night in this small town, before venturing on to the next. It would give him the entire day with Anemone--allowing him to spend time with her, and her alone... time that was not so easily atteined throughout their weeks on the road.

[an]

He was too good to her, she thought inwardly. He was damn too good to her, she'd snatched herself a great man, one who had his sensitive moments and still managed to be the best kisser she ever had. 'I've been drugged by lips', she thought inwardly. Anemone couldn't help her desires to make his life easier, she worried every night, Phoenix had to fight for his life and never remember it. Did he ponder constantly if he was or was not a murderer? Despite this, she grinned at him.

"Of course I make hell worth it, I'm the best thing you've come across since Tempest himself, without me, you're life would have no comical relief. That and you'd probably be without intimacy the rest of your life, you would've resorted to being a munk if best, though you wouldn't look too good bald, your head would resemble an egg." She boxed her head in her hands, making an arch over her hair to symbolize the egg that Phoenix would have. "It wouldn't be that attractive, sorry dear."

Phenoix kissed her again, she watched him escourt Tempest to the stables, paying mind to the way his strong legs moved with each step, and oh yeah, how toned his butt was. Anemone snickered at her own lechery. "I promise I'll eat something before I rest, but I must ask... do you have plans for the morning?"

That was an interesting question; Anemone and Phoenix had been searching for this psuedo-brother of his for a while now, why would he ask that question of her? They'd been doing the same thing as long as she can remember, she always followed him. "We're looking for your brother, are we not, isn't that why you led me to this dreary place? I know I know, we're people of Fire, but I'd much rather a tropical paradise then this." She leaned against the wall and nibbled on a piece of bread. "My only plans are to make sure you eat and rest up, then we can be on our way to do whatever it is you need to do. I'm fine."

Anemone could be a pest, and tell him she'd rather wander a bazaar and search for new clothing, just for fun, or tell him she wanted to buy meats and vegetables for him to snack on, but she didn't. It wasn't that she pitied Phoenix, by no means, his life except for at night was a good one, and he was blessed with no recollection of what he did every night either. Anemone just didn't want to burden him. " I could use a drink though," she blurted out, a mischevious smile on her face. Ah yes, Anemone was always up for a drink.
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[+ Lithium +]

Falling back to previous entanglements in his recent past; As her words touched him, her warmth still within his arms, he could not help but chuckle at her comment. There was the difficult woman he found so much attraction in. He hugged her close before planting the kiss upon her head.

"Indeed, what would I do without my little nymph? Besides, Pyran wouldn't take me, I'm too stubborn to be a good preist."
Her referance to an egg only instilled a touch more humor to his face, as her total expression captured him. It was a serious look, but hinted with jest and made wry with attraction and sarcasm. Oh how he loved her.
"Now, now. Be nice," he teased before attending to Tempest.

... and we're back.

He looked behind him and paused as he waited for an answer to his question. When she answered he shook his head at her stubborness and shrugged. She was insistant about that food--which he wasn't all that hungry for. He sighed, he wasn't going to argue with her, besides... her answer was good. It meant she was free for the morning and a drink would be nice. He smiled and nodded to her, his eyes filled with adoration for her; "A drink then... I'll hold you to it."

He waited a minute to allow his own reply to reach her, before returning to his previously determined actions.
Tempest was in discomfort and wanted that warm stall, the sweet feed, the water, and all the other luxuries that a stabled horse received, and he was quit persistant in his desires, as the large 17 handed black friesian stud danced impatiently beside Pheonix. The strong fire mage did his best to keep Tempest in control, but it was difficult and he was glad to pass the job to the waiting stable hands. Even they--those who had received a full nights rest--had their hands full with the proud warhorse.
Pheonix sighed and went into the joint tack room, where he placed the tack up on the racks for storage. Only now did he allow himself to drift into his own thoughts. He didn't know what to do all the time.

He had Anemone and hopefully that would never change. However, his life still left much to be desired and he didn't know how long he could continue to live a half-life. He supposed in some desperate corner of his mind there was still hope that this magical disease could be wiped away and he could be given what was deprived of him--a normal life. He couldn't even control the supposed power that he possessed at night. He couldn't predict it, couldn't even remember how he used it, how he spent his nights. Did he look for fights? Was he a murderer? Yes, the thought had crossed his mind before, and there were times when the question plagued him in the dreams that he did possess. Though he wasn't consciously aware of it, the demon that became him at night was fueled by anger and revenge. If phoenix had such a grudge, the evil within him would act upon it. It was a dangerous game, and unfortunately Pheonix had no idea what kind of triggers and cues the cold malignant ruled by. He had no hints, and only knew to find isolation before the sun set.

He was suddenly roused by an intrusion just outside the tack room door. The stable hand was just stopping by to alert the young mage that Tempest was all set within a stall with all the necessities he needed. Pheonix smiled politely and acknowledge the note and was soon left to his own devices again. But he was done thinking.

Finished with the tack, he left the barn and came back out onto the street. His face watched the gravel and cabble beneath him with a rather morose expression that reflected his previous contemplation. Yet, he quickly erased it as he came upon Anemone. A smile illuminated his face as he came back up to her and wrapped his arm about her snugly.
"Alright, m'darling, where to?"

[an]

Her eyes followed his frame as he disappeared from view to put Tempest away. It was what she always did, stood, and watched him walk away from her. She dared occasionally to follow, until Phoenix had told her, no begged her, to stay away from him at nights. She couldn't stand the thought of watching him leave each and every night, with no guarantee he'd come back alive, or even return to the man he was during the hours of the sun. The bread suddenly tasted like cotton balls in her throat, she sighed and stared at the sky. Her old life seemed so far away, family, the old village, things she hadn't thought about in such a long time.

The sun was bright, beams glaring down at her as if they wanted her attention. She held a hand over her eyes to provide shade and sighed. There would be a day, she knew deep down, were Phoenix would not be able to escape the monster that lived in him. Anemone had to wonder when it would be, and if there was any hope for the man she loved so deserately. She had to curse herself as well, why did Anemone willingly stay with a man she knew was trouble? Trouble...no, that's a different kind of trouble. Pheonix wasn't a ruffian who went looking for trouble, he was thrown into trouble. What she wouldn't give to have him freed of this burden.

He returned to Anemone and wrapped his arm around, inquiring where they should go next. Anemone hadn't missed that distraut expression that although lasting only a few seconds, had still existed on his face. She too tried her best to put on a happy face. "Well, this inn lets you order liquor right to your room, I found that quite useful last night. I suppose we could do that. Then again, I fear that if we went upstairs you'd fall asleep straight-away, and then I'd never have any fun with you. The local tavern is quaint, decent size, and the local drunk is taking a nap right in front of the inn's door, so he won't bother me. I saw some gruff men in there, but you know how much I love to tease men like that using you." Smirking she winked, Phoenix knew she loved to cause trouble for other men, constantly teasing Phoenix in front of their lecherous eyes, eyes that glared with envy that such a beautiful woman belonged to Phoenix. "So which do you want? Either way I get my liquor, you, and hopefully you'll get some good food."


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[+ Lithium +]

Pheonix smiled and rested his chin in the groove of her neck--holding her back against his chest, he sighed... breathing in the sweet sent of her hair and skin--fragrented by oils. He let himself fall into her presence, relaxing and forgetting about his worries, about the previous night. Today was a new day, and as much as he wanted nothing more than to sleep--there was also a part of him that desired her and only her. He was feeling lonely, and that was a feeling which would lead him to ignore the day. They could travel again tomorrow... which reminded him. Three more days to the full moon... only three. It was the one night he was free, the one night he did not have to hide. It couldn't come any slower.

Returning to her teasing gestures, he chuckled and kissed the side of her neck affectionately, before throwing his weight into his arms. Lifting her up, he swung her suddenly about, drawing his one arm beneath her knees to support her across his body. Teasingly, as if transporting a captive he moved steadily towards the inn door, smiling at her as he sarcastically retorted: "Well I refused to share." He paused as he roughly moved the sluggish drunk away from the swing of the door. Jokingly he continued--pausing within the threshold of the lobby door, "You're mine and you're stuck with me.

With that he preceeded on to the hallway, ignoring the desk clerk that looked questioningly in their direction.

As he moved through the halls towards the room she'd acquired for the night, he considered his words. Indeed, he didn't want to share. Oh... she knew how much it riled him to watch other men make their pass towards the woman he loved. Yet, at the same time, he loved how she led them on--trailing behind her like worried dogs, only to find that her steps led right back to him--Pheonix. Pheonix did love that feeling, the feeling that what every man wanted was his. Anemone was unavailable, much to their dismay. Nonetheless, he didn't want to deal with either emotion now. He just wanted Anemone, not the bar. Suffice to say, he would eat as she desired and sleep would be readily available to him. However, he would also have Anemone with no drunkards and lustful assholes to snatch at her and disrobe her with their eyes. It would be much quieter in the room, more relaxing...

Suddenly, he was there, and he regrettfully allowed Anemone to drop from his grasp. He unfortunately did not have a key. Slightly defeated by his inability to complete the transport, he leaned against the door frame, hand in his pockets. His uncropped orange hair flickered with an unkept glow--illuminated by the scant candle's that lined the hallway. The atmosphere was warm... he hadn't realized how cold he was. Now he did, and he shuddered comfortably in the warmth that slowly began to refill the crevasses of his body--watching the beautiful woman beside him, only helped.


ooc: I'm really sorry for the wait, I've been pretty museless, and it's now finally starting to filter back.

[an]

This boy, no man, seemed to know how to do everything right. He was a doofus in his own accord, but anytime she huffed or was slightly peeved he'd say the sweetest things and made her swoon every time. Every time. Damn that Pheonix, she chuckled, "I suppose being stuck with you isn't the worst thing in the world, I mean, I could be stuck with a comatose drunk, that'd be horrible boring." His sweet caresses only made Anemone more aroused since his arrival again, she swore Pheonix was a drug in a humanoid form but no matter.

Carried like a bride would be, she was brought upstairs. Looking at the chipped paint of the door, somewhere in her mind she sighed, wishing that one day they would have a home to come home to every night, not when the curse hadn't kicked Pheonix unconscious. Realizing Pheonix was waiting for the key Anemone stuck her hand down her shirt, shifting around her right breast until she produced a key. Smirking at him she placed the key in the hole and turned, listening for the click of the lock. Knocking the door open with her foot she sauntered inside, hips swaying with every step she took just to tease Pheonix. They didn't have much time for any passionate embraces, not with his curse and his weariness.

Anemone sat down on the bed, it barely sagging with her weight, and pulled off her boots. The belt was also disposed onto the floor and kicked so they knocked against the wall. Reaching to the nightstand she grabbed a tiny menu and stretched herself out on the bed; her elbows supporting the top of her, intentionally thrusting out her breasts for him to see, they straining against her shirt. "Lets see....some food for PHeonix and some wine for happy old me. You'd want something lite so you can sleep quicker. Me, I just want something strong." While still reading the menu she pulled off her gloves with her teeth, jerking her head back until they slipped off, revealing her silky fingers.

The bed was still unmaid from when she woke up only a few said hours ago at this point, she found the sheets and draped them over her legs just to feel the cool fabric against her skin. She noted that Pheonix had only just followed her into the room and was only now just starting to take off his shoes and things. "Before you get in this bed you better take a shower you dirty man, I don't want dirt here. If you clean up you'll get your rewards," she teased him lightly. "Just before you shower tell me what you want to eat and when you're out of the shower it'll all be set up and ready."


ugh, this is why i get confused when people have user names different from character names, most of my characters keep the same name and user name. gomen

[+ Lithium +]

ooc: lol, sorry...

Pheonix, still leaning against the door, watched as Anemone reached inside her shirt. The smile she tossed him, warned him of her teasings, but he willingly let himself fall into her game. Coyly and rather childishly, Pheonix suddenly felt inclined to play along. Adding some tease of his own, he reached out suddenly and caught the edge of her collar, pulling it out and leaning forward as if to pear down into the chasm of her cleavage, but he restrained himself... not wanting to actually cross a line.
"What else do you keep down there, my little nymph?"
He teased, letting go of her collar even as he said it. He wasn't a pushy lover, but she had her teasings, and he could not always keep his own at bay.

Smiling he leaned back again, to hurriedly remove his face from any impending rebuttles she might slap in his direction. He hoped the comment would not upset her, but he had little fear it would. Many would probably call it cute, but one could never know the full extent of a woman's scorn. Even Anemone could be a bit moody at times.
Nonetheless, he smiled confidently and watched her as she moved into the room, swinging her hips to entice him.

It did the trick, he could feel the heat rising in his body--elliviating the cold of the morning. He chuckled and shook his head, trying to hide himself of the swooning thoughts that threatened to seduce him.
"Damn you, girl." he scorned humorously within his mind, as he watched her kick of her boots... then her belt.

Curiously, he tilted his face to look at her sideways, though she was not facing him. He noticed the belt intently. Was it a hint? He pushed the thought away as he moved into the room, removing his cloak and his boots. He was not looking at her, but more or less focusing on the rack--upon which his cloak and jacket were destined to hang. The wood teetered slightly, but held firm... her voice soon distracting him.

He turned about, finding her alluringly stretched out across the bed, her breasts played out in front of her, her back curved as her elbows supported her upper body. He shook his head, bearing a defeated smile as he moved to the other side of the bed, just behind her.
As he walked, he removed his shirt, and began to fondle the belt that held up his black toned breeches. A shower would be nice.

Dropping his belt on the floor, he ignored it--a man does not care where his possessions fall--and leaned down, cupping her head within his hands, he tilted her skull back and gently brushed her forehead with his lips.
"You little tease..." he muttered in a loving whisper as he smoothely disbanded from her and moved to the adjoined room, where the hot water awaited him. Pausing just outside the door, he looked back to her and smirked slyly, "Some eggs will do. I'm not terribly hungry."

With that he ducked into the room, closing the door before she could yell at him and demand he eat anything more. He leaned against the smooth wood and fell into his emotions, lavishing the warm burning passion that filled his heart and soul. Anemone was his woman, his friend, and his lover. He could not ask for anything else... if all he ever had was her, he would be content. Their love was precious, there commitment, even more.

Sighing, he finally turned on the spicket and let both the water and the steam fill the room. In a bath of peaceful thoughts, he let his mind wander as he let himself soak within the liquid--pants discarded on the floor outside the basin. The grime upon his body--the sweat and the mud--seemed to roll off of him as he considered his plans.

After tonight, Kaji was at the forefront of his thoughts. He hadn't seen the man in years, and he still could hardly believe that his adoptive brother was truly the ruler of the Fire's nation. It seemed so unlikely.
He chuckled recalling old memories... remember both the good and the bad. It would nice to see Kaji once again--though Pheonix hoped, the power had not gone to his childhood friend's head.

Shortly, he was done contemplating and likewise done with his bathing. Carefully, and half reluctantly, he pulled himself out of the basin, and grabbed a towl that he had laid out on the floor. It didn't take him long to run it through his damp orange hair, before he calmly fitted it around his waist. Only then did he exit the shower, looking immediately for Anemone, even as he moved to pick up his clothes.

His skin was still damp, and droplets of water still clung to his bare bronze shoulders, perfectly chiseled by work, practice, and labor. He was proud of his appearance, as he was undoubtably a rather handsome character. He took pride in it, and couldn't help but enjoy showing off his attractive construction to Anemone, who seemed to make a point to constantly remind him of her's.

[an]

Pheonix's attempts to see down her shirt only flattered her and made her chuckle. "Lets see, what else do I hide down here..." she stared down at her own clevage. "I think you'll have to go treasure hunting later, Pheonix, then you'll see."

Anemone rolled her eyes as her lover disappeared into the bathroom to start his shower. The man was so damn stubborn when it came to taking care of himself. Pheonix was a strong man, but a cursed one too, and she wanted him to stay healthy so he could live as long as possible. She ran downstairs to the kitchen and placed the order for the eggs and a bottle of wine for herself. Eggs were pretty much the simplest thing thing any chef could make, even she could make them, which was miraculous because Anemone had this tendency to burn things through until they were slabs of black char. After scurrying back upstairs she placed the plate of food on the nightstand beside her. Although Pheonix had only requested eggs she asked the chef for two slices of toast and a cup of water as well.

With nothing else to do Anemone laid back on the bed, closing her eyes. The journey had brought them to the Fire territory, war here stirred memories of her former work. Anemone hadn't partook in a good fight in quite a while. Phenoix wanted to see Kaji, which peaked her interest as well, the rumors of Kaji's powers were known far and wide and Anemone wouldn't mind watching the two partake in a "brotherly" brawl. The idea of Pheonix fighting, without the curse's control, his bronze body covered in a layer of sweat was quite the enticing image. But the curse, it too came to mind, the one day she'd ever seen it, Anemone wouldn't lie, she'd been terrified. Rolling over on the bed she buried her face in the pillows. She loved Phoenix, but could she really love him when she was afraid of him? That's why she'd rather laugh and be in a happy drunken stupor.

Hearing the door to the bathroom open she pulled her face from the pillows to stare in that direction. Seeing him in nothing but a towel in a very Anemone like manner she whistled at him. "Ah, see now I remember why I love you so much. You're so damn sexy, I think you need to keep your shirt off for the rest of your life."

Hopping off the bed, breasts bouncing for his viewing pleasure, she skipped over to him and wrapped her arms around his neck, tilting his head down to look at her happy face. "Feels nice to be clean, right? Now you have a nice healthy glow and I also get a great opportunity to stare at my sexy man without getting in trouble." She stuck out her tongue like a child as she cradled her frame against his, feeling his towel rub against her frame. "Food's here, would you like to get dressed or eat first?" she raised an eyebrow, he knowing what she'd like him to do, but Anemone was pretty sure he'd just get dressed anyway then eat. She pecked his lips and released him from her grasp and hopped back onto the bed. She popped the cork to the wine and poured a cup, looking up to him, "Want one?"
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[+ Lithium +]

Pheonix remembered her rebuttle at his attempt to pear down her shirt, and he glanced at her as she lifted herself from the bed. The food was set upon the night stand, and he eyed it with a leary gaze before noticing both Anemone's words and her body as it bounced alluringly in his direction. Leaned in so she could better wrap her arms over his neck as he too quickly finished the embrace--wrapping his muscled bare arms around her waste snugly, feeling her warmth against him--his warmth against her. He smiled at her flattery, but did not return the favor, she knew what his responce was, and he took the moment to lavish the closeness, the color of her eyes, and the sweet scent of an enticing woman.

His skin dampened her close from the condensed steam that still lingered upon his flesh, causing her thin shirt to cling to her in various spots, reflecting the pink hue of the skin underneath. Finally he spoke, a low whisper, looking down at her as she looked up at him. His rugged orange hair was slicked back and lay wet and tight against his face, his eyes looking lovingly at hers, with a devlish hint that was slowly picking up speed and control.

"Now if I did that I would be mighty cold now wouldn't I? he rationalized jokingly as she took his head in her hands.

He chuckled at her instance and her desire to be told she was right. Letting go of her waste, he reached up and gripped her wrists, one within the palm of each hand and lowered them as she stuck out her tongue. He leaned in his face close to hers, but he did not make contact. Gently he whispered--an enchanting voice that rang with a deep resonance, meant to charm, meant to woo. Now it was his turn to be coy. Yes, he had an idea of what her curiousities desired. It was safe to say, he desired it as well, but the whole fun of the game was the foreplay--of which both Anemone and Pheonix were good at.
"Let me throw on some pants, then I shall eat."

She then disbanded from him after a quick kiss and Pheonix was once again left wondering who was really playing who. He shook his head, lovingly and faded behind the screen that served as their changing room. Dropping the towl, he grabbed the black pair of breeches that lay folded and neat. Sliding his legs into them, and adjusting the cinch comfortably upon his hips he moved out from behind the screen, as he ruffled his unkept orange hair to help dry it out some.

He approached the bed as she offered him a drink. He should his head, and sat down beside her on the side of the mattress. Picking up the plate he began to indulge himself in the pleasures of the food, but a thought came to him and he quickly swallowed turning sideways to look at her, "Now, now, don't you get too happy either. It's no fun playing with a girl who can't remember the event."

He teased, throwing out the lure she so commonly used. He turned away from her once again and continued to eat, the portions of food quickly dwindling away till there was nothing left. Sighing his satisfaction, feeling refreshed and content with a shower and food, he felt the hints of exhaustion that plagued him every morning. But they were not traveling today, he reminded himself. He could sleep later.

Setting down the plate, he flopped back on the bed, feeling the tension ease from his back and neck. It was actually quite comfortable just to lay here, but he was too aroused now to sleep.

"Damn it, girl." he scorned humorously once again inside his mind.

[an]

There was silence between the two. The only sound in the room was the red wine filling up her cup. She corked the bottle and placed it on the bedside table. Her eyes looked at her drink and she spun the liquid in the glass, staring at her distorted reflection as she felt Phoenix shuffle around on the bed. She bounced up and down with the waves of the mattress and when all was still she finally took a sip of her drink. Anemone looked at the empty plate belonging to Phoenix, at least she had been right about his hunger. Anemone knew him well enough to know he'd always eat when offered, he needed the energy because at night....well at night he just didn't have that luxury.

Aneomone took another sip of her drink. "If I had the ability to forget things I would gladly take the offer," she whispered quietly. "There are a lot of things I wish I could forget in this lifetime." Somehow Phoenix would know what she was talking about, and even if he dared to inquire further she said nothing more on the matter. With a few more dainty sips she finished off the drink, leaving the glass, along with Phoenix's untouched one, on the counter.

Standing up she gathered up his dirty plate and utensils along with her own from earlier. She opened the door and left them in the hallway for the maid, the bolted the door shut. Her tired eyes came upon his frame, and she smiled sweetly for a moment. She wished she had more days like this, where he wasn't so tense. Anemone had a sharp eye for him, knowing when he was relaxed, or merely pretending. For once it seemed like he was content. Picking up the sheets she had thrown off herself earlier she draped them over him, even if they did nothing for warmth, it somehow reassured her. Slowly she slid herself onto the bed as well, sitting up beside him, her hand rested on his chest, tracing small circles gently.

"You can rest now, I don't mind."

For all the playfullness Anemone contained, part of her always would be a simple concerned girl. She wanted him to be stay with her for as long as possible, if sleep would give him that, then fine.

"I'll still be here when you wake up," she mumbled gently before kissing his forehead trying to hold back the needy hint to her voice. She wanted him and needed him, but was also mindful of his hellish nights.

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[+ Lithium +]

Her words, which broke the silence, puzzled him as he saw no real previous events that might have provoked them. He wasn't quite sure if he understood what she wanted to forget, but he could probably safely assume it had some referance and correlation to his curse. He wondered if guilt had ever plagued her... not insinuating that regret had ever passed through his mind. He loved Anemone with all of his heart, and would rightly die for her rather than watch her suffer. It was easier for him to bear, knowing that she was safe and untouched.

Yet, inevitably... he wondered if their relationship itself was cursed, doomed since the moment he aquired his nightly demon. It was one of the fears that led him to quest so ruthlessly for a cure of some kind... any kind. For he could not suffer to lose Anemone, her abandonment--if ever she should dare--would be ever so deep a wound. He would not even think of it.

Tilting his head to look at her as she placed the empty plate in the hallway--her steps soon leading her back to his side. Her weight pressured the mattress beside him, and her hand drew wide berthed circles upon his chest. He sighed contently, forgetting all the old worries as he looked up into her face. Her vibrant red hair, her sparkling eyes. He felt the desire rise within him, as a romance flitted before his vision. He smiled coyly--a deep smile, even as her words went unheeded.

Sleep... indeed...

Before she could fully finish her last sentence, he raised his head--his shoulders following suit, until he sat, his arm braced behind him, while his other hand cupped her face gently. Warm lips reached for hers, as his tenderness sought to silence her. The feel of her skin beneath his touch was like static, and the pulse between them reached a heat that he felt immediately.
In this simple action of a romantic kiss, he had all the intentions of eleviating her of her own troubles... the worries that weighed her down. For so long, she'd been by his side--forsaking her own adventurous personality at times for his sake--for his desire to know she was safe while the night preceeded. It was this willingness to comply that let him know, she loved him just as he did her. How could such a beautiful thing be so corrupted by a malignant sprite that would dare to find its home in his soul? Pheonix hated it, half hating himself... but the thoughts and contemplations faded as the kiss lingered. Her face against his, her head in his hand, her fingers upon his chest. Slowly he leaned into her, ever gently rolling out from beneath his sheets, as he gently moved to lay her down beside him.

He loomed over her, laying upon his side, while his upper body twisted comfortably to support her and himself as they lay there together. Only after her back was safely upon the mattress did he release her mouth and move his face away briefly, observing her eyes, her features, the slender curve of her face and the flow of her hair over the pillows.
He looked down from above her, his upper body twisted over hers, his face calm, gentle, yet his eyes burned with love and passion. He dared to tease no more until she offered her consent, but he smiled earnestly, lay his cheek against hers, breathing deeply, rhythmically...

What words could he say? None would suffice. All that needed saying was portrayed within his touch--within his eyes.
Yet, there was something else he did have to offer, a simple rejection of all their troubles--a simple phrase to express that which was dearest to him--a testament to his devotion.

"I love you."