Sa'vere jerked awake, disoriented. She found that her limbs were tied and inwardly cursed her ill luck.

Lanzer handed her over to his brother as he drew back his bow in case of they were followed. *They seem angry brother* He stated happily.

Azder collected his weapons and tried to pick up a sign of her or the captors.

Indeed, they do. Satul chuckled.

Sa'vere glowered at the duo, recognizing Lanzer almost immediately. She noticed that he shared a striking resemblance with Lanzer. She calmed her disoriented mind and began focusing on a way to escape.

*What shall we add to the chaos?* Lanzer asked silently of his brother an evil grin spreading on his lips.

Do you have something in mind? Satul gazed at him.

*What would happen if the floor suddenly wasn't there?*

Satul grinned, Interesting question...

*Think you could do it? I would so love to find out.*

It is easy enough, especially with use of the shadows. Satul's grin widened and he lifted his free hand, allowing the shadows to encase and absorb the floor.

Lanzer smiled and dragged Sa'vere away so she would not be taken by the spell.

Sa'vere merely glared, what was their purpose? If she didn't know any better it was almost as though they were two children merely playing a game...

Azder could fill the shift as his eyes widened in horror. "OUT! GET OUT!" He yelled to Kahtale and Sakura.

Lanzer smiled *Oh I do love this play that is unfolding, my dear brother!*

As do I, Satul nodded, smirking at their attempt to escape, unwitting to the fact that they were only ensnaring themselves deeper.

*What say you to stirring it up a little more?* Lanzer asked as he removed a highly explosive vile from his pocket with a grin.

Do as you please, brother. Satul said, grinning at the vial.

They better not be planning to hurt anybody or they've got another thing coming! Sa'vere thought in determination. Azder, be careful!!!

*how flammable do you think he is?* Lanzer asked pointing to Kahtale.

He has quite a bit of fur. I'm sure he'll burn in an instant. Satul laughed inwardly.

Lanzer smiled wickedly. *Let's find out.* He cocked back his arm ready to throw.

What's in that vial? What's with those looks... it can't be good! Sa'vere struggled against her bonds viciously and managed to pull her hand loose. She grabbed the vial in Lanzer's hand quickly, keeping a vice-like grip on it as she glared at him.

Lanzer shrugs and moves away out of her reach getting a similiar vile out and throwing it at Kahtale.
*You may want to get that away from her brother.*

Sa'vere glanced at the falling vial and back at the one in her hand. Satul reached for the vial that she held, but with a quick decision on her part, she threw it at the falling one, hitting it dead on. Kehtale, get away! She thought, praying that he would be safe. He started for a moment before picking up his pace significantly.

*Damn! She is ruining our fun!*

Indeed. Satul growled, glaring at her. Even if only for a brief moment she felt a tinge of triumph at their frustration.

Lanzer grinned as he pulled another vile out and quickly threw it striking Azder in the back with it. Azder let out a gasp of pain as he struggled to remain standing. *Vampires do hate holly water*

Azder, are you alright? Kehtale turned himself to face his injured comrade, looking around for the source of the attack.

"I.....need fresh water!" He gasped the holly water burned, it would have been worse if he was a full blooded vampire bur the pain was still intense.

Lanzer grinned *Your turn brother*

Fresh water? Kehtale looked around uncertainly, before he caught sight of Sa'vere's pack. He raced over to it and nosed through its contents before catching sight of a small jar of fresh looking water. He grabbed it in his jaws and moved back to Azder's side, Will this do? He huffed.

My turn, eh? Satul took on a thoughtful look before his smirk broadened and the shadow beneath Sa'vere rippled and slithered to the ground near the others. It molded itself until it was exactly like her in appearance.

Azder grabbed the jar trying to splash it on his back.

Lanzer grinned as he watched.

Is it any better? Kehtale asked softly.

Azder nods, and looks around. "Sa'vere?"he asks in disbelief.

She stepped fully from the shadows, "I was hoping to run into you guys!" She said in relief, "I was forced from the bed, but I managed to escape!"

Azder felt uneasy but she looked like sa'vere. "Where is Sakura?"

Lanzer watched with interest. *Very nice.*

"I don't know- wasn't she with you both?" She asked.

"The floor moved. Who is doing this?"

"I wish I knew..." She said with a sigh.

"We should look for her."

"Yeah, she shouldn't be out here on her own." She nodded.

Sakura groans but notices something really wrong with the enegry signature. *I don't like this...it seems all too simple.* Sakura just gets up but tries to move however she is stuck.

"Sakura!" She caught sight of the other girl and moved to help her.

"Sa'vere? are you ok?" Sakura feeling weak and she didn't do
much. She tries to smile.

"I'm fine, but what about you?" She asked.

"I will...be...fine. where's Azder aka Mr Protective?...I wasn't much help was I?" Sakura's eyes begin to cloud over and Sakura tries to keep the smile.

"Don't say that," She scolded, "They are right over there." She waved behind her.

"Its true I wasn't." *I feel strange...* Sakura just nods gently but still doesn't feel right.

"Come on, let's just get back with Azder and Kehtale." She murmured.

It's almost time for the real fun to begin. Satul thought darkly.

*I can hardly wait*

Sakura's face turns pale and she breaks away from Sa'vere and runs or at least attempts. *THIS IS BAD I NEED TO GET AWAY FROM THEM ALL!*

"Sakura, is something wrong?" She ran to Sakura's side to aid her.

"PLEASE GET AWAY!" Sakura manages to get up and runs again. She feels bad that she is mistreating Sa'vere this way but she knows something is not right with her. Tears fill her eyes as she keeps running.

"Sakura!" She called, continuing to pursue her.

A man in a dark cloack sees the frantic girl. He knows it is his "dear" niece. interesting so the slight vampire is starting to reveal itself within dear Sakura

"Come on Sakura, we've got to get back to the others. We can't stay seperated like this." She caught up to the other girl.

Man walks over and offers a friendly smile. "What's wrong you look terrified girl?" she knows nothing about me I intend on keeping it that way for the moment. She does have the slight vampire in her.

"Sa'vere I can't have any of you near me. Something is wrong and I fear I will hurt you." Sakura notices the man and instantly feels fear. Even though he shows a friendly face, his eyes look cold at her.

Who is this man, intruding on our fun? She thought, narrowing her eyes at him for a moment before turning to Sakura, "I don't care your reasons, we've got to look for everyone."

Sakura shakes her head. The fear is overwhemling, she does not want to hurt anyone including that stubborn man Azder. She looks at the man and the fear multiplies although she is not sure why. "Sa'vere I will be all right. I need you to get to safety. I don't know what's wrong with me. That is what scares me the most, you are friend and I have to protect my very first friends.

Man has a hidden smirk at this "cute" scene. funny Sakura you don't feel anything. You only think you do. You are slowly gaining the vampire sense. "Perhaps I can help you find your friends young lady. What is your name?" Looking at Sa'vere with no interest to do anythig to her.

"My name is Sa'vere, and this is Sakura. Who exactly are you?" She asked, narrowing her eyes once more. Master Satul, what should I do?

If he continues to ruin our fun you will have no choice... Satul sighed.

Man smiles as he recongizes the voices of the twin demons he had befriended a few years ago. So you are masquarding as the little girl Sa'vere. I see. I have no interest with this Sa'vere person I only wish to deal with Sakura. NEITHER ONE OF YOU WILL DEAL WITH SAKURA ONLY I CAN DEAL WITH HER UNDERSTAND!

*Maybe we have an interest in her too my friend.* Lanzer said.

Azder pulled out his weapon at the newcomer. "You are no friend!"

Man chuckles as he pulls his hood down. "How nice to see you Azderias or is it Azder now? Why are you pulling your weapon agaisnt me? I mean no harm to you." He looks at the frightened Sakura. It was so delicious to see the daughter of his great brother cringig in fear. What interest do you have of Sakura Lanzer? If memory serves me right you were just assigned to find this Sa'vere girl. Sakura is a personal matter with me.

*I have nothing to answer for. These are my friends now leave! Crawl into a hole and die!*

Sakura shakes her head and says, "AZDER GO AWAY PLEASE! I DON'T WANT SOMETHING TO HAPPEN!"

Our desires are of no concern to you. Satul replied simply.

Sa'vere gave Satul a hard punch when he was least expecting it and quickly fled from the brothers, tugging at the remainder of her bindings.

Man just shrugs at that statement. Sakura although she is physically weak she is smart and damn good with the staff she has and the bow and arrow. You have not fooled her. She senses something is wrong with Sa'vere. You are not doing a good job in fooling her.

*So we can see.* Lanzer quickly over took Sa'vere bringing her down and binding her tightly. *Let's go brother.*

Azder remained between Sakura and her uncle. "I won't let him take you!" *Go die! she is not going with you!"

Let me go, dammit! Sa'vere, despite being bound, struggled viciously.

"Yeah, Sakura definately isn't coming with you!" She said angrily.

Sakura still feels the change, her face stays pale. Maybe he can tell me what's wrong? "Can you tell me what's happening to me stranger?"

*Brother we need to go now! THIS GIRL IS A PROBLEM* Lanzer stated.

Azder kept close attention to the stranger's movements.

Yes... we'll let her replacement do the rest. Satul nodded.

No, I promised them that I'd get strong enough to protect them! Stupid guys complicating things... She thrashed harder. Everyone...

Lanzer removed a sharp tool and poked Sa'vere with it. She found her self exhausted as the brothers and her vanished.

Man chuckles at his "dear" nieces curosity. "My dear child you will have to come with me to find out the answer. Indeed I know what ails you but I can not tell you with Azder glaring at me."

Sakura still holds the signatures and smells their scent heading east. "Azder they have taken the real Sa'vere east. The one here now is a fake. Go find Sa'vere...I need to know what is wrong with me..."

Man raises an eyebrow at his niece. How interesting she obviously feels something for Adzer...but she is leading him to this Sa'vere. Oh well too bad I need the money. She will die by my hands.

"Sakura, how can you possibly call me fake?!" She asked, astounded, "How can you possibly assure that I am fake and that if they indeed have someone, that it is truly me?"

"Please one your signature is not as bright. Your scent is not as sweet. You have a small scar on your neck." Sakura looks at her with unyeilding eyes. Sakura gasps as she realizes she can smell like a...a...VAMPIRE!

Man smiles as Sakura is slowly grasping the underling point. Yes Sakura you have some Vampire characteristics. Although you don't have the full effect. You have become troublsome. Soon I will kill you and then I will be rich. "So are you coming with me little girl?"

"Sakura, what are you saying? You've been acting strange for a while now, these strange occurences must be affecting your mind or something..." She said.

"No. I'm sure you are not Sa'vere. If you were Sa'vere then you would be reacting to the man and be telling me not to go with him. You seem to ignore the fact a stranger is here..."
Sakura looks at the man still feeling confused on whether she should go or stay.

"Of course I don't want you to go with him- but do I honestly need to voice it aloud? He's acting like he knows you, which quite honestly I find rather creepy..." She said.

"I know you are not the real Sa'vere so stop with the play acting. I think he may know me from my village." Sakura feels a sense of dread but she is not sure if she would control her vampire side without his help.

Man shakes his head. Those idoit brothers. Did they really think Sakura would not notice..or maybe they only left this copy behind because of her other commrad. I have to coax Sakura on my side.. I wonder if the copy will aid me?

Inwardly she glowered at Sakura, angered that the girl did not seem to be buying the fact that she was Sa'vere. In a sense she was, she was the shadow of the girl, and thus able to share her memories. Little brat, you won't find her anyway, master Satul and his brother are gone, and within a few minutes their energy traces will vanish entirely.

Man creats a mental link with the copy. She is frustrating. Oh trust me Sakura is dangerous she will find Sa'vere if she remains a live catch my drift.

And just what are you proposing? She replied back.

Man smirks inwardly. If you help me coax her to my side. I will see that she never finds this Sa'vere girl. Then your bosses will be pleased with your performance. You can deal with her other commrads. How does that sound?

Fine by me so long as she is gone before the other two arrive. She said simply, "Sakura... You said maybe this man could help you, so why are you still here, especially if you think that I am a fake?"

Man smiles inwardly. I need you to do one more thing before I take her. I want you to kiss Azder to make him forget I was even here. I humbly thank you for aiding me. Do you think you can manage to kiss Azder? "She has a point little girl...Sakura is it?"

"LOOK I DON'T HAVE TO EXPLAIN ANYTHING TO YOU! I DON'T KNOW IF I CAN TRUST HIM! MY VILLAGE WAS DESTORIED!" Sakura begins to feel really weak.

Of course I can! "What, are you just going to opt out on the chance to get help?" She asked, moving over to Azder's side silently.

Sakura begins to feel really dizzy. "I...don't know..maybe you're right I do need help maybe I should go with this stranger."

"Yes, go. Get the help that you so desire." She said, looking at Sakura, "Go with him."

Man just waits but has a cold smile on his face. Great job she is wavering. Don't forget to kiss Azder. I will not fail you. "Yes child come with me and I can help you get the control you desire."

Sakura merely nods and walks over to the man. I'm sorry everyone I really need help and I don't want to hurt you all.

"See you later then, Sakura." She said, smiling at her, "Perhaps we'll see you again soon." Good, go now.

Man smiles and takes Sakura's arm and disappears in a red light. Thank you my dear

Her smile vanished and she turned to Azder, "A kiss will make his memory of you disappear, huh?" She leaned towards him and firmly pressed her lips to his, unable to conceal her grin once more.

Azder pulled away and snarled. *You think that will work? I am a demon and Vampire! I know you are not the true Sa'vere." Azder ran after the brothers. *Kahtale find Sakura she is in danger!*

Her eyes flashed darkly and her form shifted as she wrapped it about him. "Fine, so I'm not the real thing, but I am in a sense her you know." She said, tightening her grasp on him. I'm sorry, but I can't allow you- or you-" Part of her form slithered out and wrapped itself tightly about Kehtale, dragging him over towards Azder, "ruin anything."

Azder's eyes flashed red as he muttered a spell that struck the fake Sa'vere. He made a break for it knowing time was running out.

She growled and her eyes faded to black, "Fine, we'll have to do this the hard way." She growled, Master Satul, Lanzer, you must hurry away, Azder seems pretty determined to make chase. Her arm lashed out and wrapped tightly around his abdomen, squeezing hard enough to begin cracking his ribs.


Azder growled at the pain and fought to be free. *Kahtale help!*

Kehtale bit the shadowy substance that was around him and she howled in pain before glaring at him, "Why you... you stupid cat!" She growled, tightening her grip again. He bit her harder this time and her grasp loosened. Oh no you don't! She said as he struggled against her, and momentarily she forgot her struggle with Azder.

Azder broke free and struck her with magic. *Forgive me Kahtale but I must save the girls!* He begged, as he vanished.

I was going to tell you to go on without me anyway... Kehtale broke free from her grasp, panting as she leapt at him again, this time sharpening her fingers into blades, which pierced his hide brutally. He let out a roar of pain and his form shifted back to its initial form as he collapsed, unconscious and bleeding. She turned then and chased after Azder.

Azder meanwhile had turned into a large black wolf and was running after the signitures, he would not fail his friends again!

Brother, I do believe we've got a pursuer. Should we erase our energy signals, or better yet- redirect them? Satul asked.

*I don't know if we can, she seems to be preventing us.*

Then what say we pick up the pace?

Man leads Sakura to a remote marsh. "Now child I need you to at least trust me. Your vampire senses will need guidance. Do you trust me?"

Sakura simply nods her head because everything is so fogged.

Azder reached out to Sakura frantically *Sakura get away from him! Try to find us he intends to kill you!*

*Let's* Lanzer replied picking up speed.

Azder? NO GO AND FIND SA'VERE THEY ARE PICKING UP THE PACE! I...am slightly vampire..GO FIND SA'VERE! I...will try to survive. Sakura feels the numbing gaze of the stranger.

Yes... go find Sa'vere, I... will help Sakura. Kehtale's strained voice found it's way to him. He stumbled towards the marsh, his breathing heavy. "Sakura... just because you are part vampire... doesn't mean you need to rely on this guy to help you. Azder was right... he intends to kill you." He was still in his humanoid form.

*I was going to! I wanted you to know he is no friend. Part vampire is better than half Sakura. I am half demon half vampire, but I am your friend...remember guard dog? I will help you cope with your abilities, after I save Sa'vere!*

GO THEN GUARD DOG! NEVER MIND ME! GO BEFORE IT IS TOO LATE! Sakura regains some control and looks at the man with cold eyes. "WHO ARE YOU!? WHY DO YOU KNOW ME?

Man growls at the fact Azderias spoiled his whole plan. YOU WILL NOT FIND SA'VERE YOU BRAT! SAKURA WILL DIE! JUST LIKE MY PATHETIC BROTHER DID BEFORE HER! "Oh dear niece you don't recognize me. I figured you wouldn't. Why would I tell you my name?"

*Sakura get away from him! Don't question just go!* Azder said silently as he saw the brothers. He quickly leapt on top of Satul and bit down hard on his arm.

SHUT UP YOU FOOL SHE CAN'T MOVE MY GAZE IS UNYIELDING! Go save your girl...Sakura is the only thing that stands in the way of my money from the man I made a deal with. He wanted everyone in her village dead. I thought I killed them all until I heard rumor about a brown eyed girl fighting vampires and saving people. SAKURA'S BLOOD WILL BE SPILT AND I WILL BE RICH MWHAHAHAH!

"I won't let you take her life!" Kehtale tackled the man into the marsh angrily, ignoring his wounds.

Man grunts as he gets angry. The cloack comes off and his whip hits Kehtale sending poison in him. "STOP DELAYING SAKURA MUST DIE! I NEED THE MONEY!"

Sakura is able to move and uses her arrow to pin the whip but just a few seconds too late. "NO! I WAS TOO LATE!"

"I... will... not let you... take her life!" Kehtale stumbled, dizziness overwhelming him.

Sakura has tears in her eyes and sends arrows to pin this man.
"THIS IS NOT RIGHT! YOU HAVE NO RIGHT TO DO THAT!" Sakura stops for a moment and realizes that whip was a cursed weapon from her village.

Man chuckles and look at Sakura with his paralyizing gaze. "FOLISH CHILD DO YOU THINK MERE ARROWS WILL SAVE YOU! That thing was getting in my way. Now you must die."

"Sakura... get away from here." Kehtale panted, bending over painfully and picking up a large rock, which he threw at the man. "Leave her alone."

Man laughs at this naive creature. "There is a reason I led dear Sakura here. Like her father this marsh swallows all the betrayers of the vampire craft. It will slowly take her in. He ankle is burried under the ground." Creature I have no qualms with you. Do not deny me Mastudo my right to kill my niece.

Azder meanwhile was biting harder into Satul' flesh, pain seared through him as Lanzer attacked him but he was determined to save Sa'vere.

Sakura looks down and notices most of her leg now trapped. "OH NO! I CAN'T DIE YET HE NEEDS MY HELP!" Sakura struggles but the marsh pulls more. In a desprate act Sakura took an arrow places healing properties on it and shoots it at Kehtale. Thank you for being my friend...I hope the arrow will aid you. Protect Sa'vere...

"You won't die, I promise you that!" Kehtale felt his strength returning and attacked the man with renewed vigor.

Meanwhile, Sa'vere's replacement caught up with Azder, and once more coiled herself about him, dragging him away from Satul. "How dare you attack my master!"

"I AM MASTUDO MY WILL IS BINDING!" He grabs the vase after forcing this creature off. "MOVE AND SAKURA WILL GET THE PLAQUE SHE WILL DIE SLOWLY!"

Azder struggled to get free growling in anger and frustration. *Sa'vere! Wake UP!*

Sakura shivers and looks at Kehtale. GO! IF HE OPENS THAT VASE THE PLAQUE WILL SPREAD! DON'T WORRY ABOUT ME!

I can't just leave you here to die, Sakura. There must be another way.

Az...der? She was slowly regaining consciousness.

"Haha, foolish little puppy. You can't win!" She laughed, tightening her grip around him once more.

Sakura feels Azder is in a difficult position. WE WILL BOTH DIE IF YOU STAY HERE! GO! AZDER MAY NEED YOUR HELP! I WILL BE FINE!

Azder was rappidly losing oxygen, his struggles became less. *Sa...Sa'vere!*

Her eyes snapped open immediately, and when she saw the situation that Azder was in, a strange feeling bubbled up within her, "You release him now!" She cried, as the bindings shattered and a faint glow covered her skin.

"Oh, and just what do you plan to do about it?" She asked, tightening her grip further.

Sakura sinks further but she feels frustrated at Kehtale. GO HE REALLY NEEDS HELP!

Mastudo smirks at this situation. Yes go help your friend. Sakura is doomed. She can feel nothing. She is a weakling. Sa'vere is special. Sakura is not any of your concern. She will join the rest of her village soon. MWHAHAHA I WILL BE FILTHY RICH ONCE SAKURA TAKES HER LAST BREATH!

Azder's eyes turned red as he gave in to his origens, he suddenly tore the shadow in half and turned to the brothers murder on his mind.

"They have the situation under control." Kehtale said simply, "I will assist you here, Sakura."

She hissed in pain, retracting her form and standing protectively between the brothers and Azder. Sa'vere herself was between the shadows and the brothers, "Azder..." She murmured.

Azder was beyond understanding, he wanted to kill anything he could find, and right now he saw four....
He lunged forward wrapping his hands around Lanzer and drawing a dagger.

THEY DO NOT HAVE THE SITUATION HANDLED! AZDER HAS SNAPPED! Sakura looks worried and does not pay attention to her sinking further. "Kehtale Azder has gone on a pure kill rampage."

Mastudo smirks at this. "My my what a disaster everything is falling apart. Don't worry dear niece your end will come. I will leave now. Once I feel your signature disappear I will be a happy man." Mastudo laughs evilly as he vanishes.

Azder struck out with his dagger at Lanzer who twisted to avoid the weapon. *He is more powerful then I remember!* Lanzer gasped at the near miss.

Azder, AZDER! What's wrong with you!? Sa'vere watched him attack Lazder.

Satul lashed out at Azder then, furious that he would dare attack his twin brother.

Sakura tries to fight the marsh but it keeps pulling her further. Kehtale...I...am sorry you had to get attacked.

Azder sent Satul sprawling with the flick of his wrest sending a magic charge into him. He sent a fire ball at Sa'vere and her shadow, and stabbed Lanzer in the side.

Sakura looses her tempar. GUARD DOG SERIOUSLY GROW UP! STOP ACTING LIKE A CHILD! YOU NEED TO GET A GRIP! STOP ATTACKING RANDOM THINGS AND FOCUS!

Azder inwardly was trying to do just that, but his father was aiding in his unruly actions. *Sa'vere Run!* He begged.

Guard dog you can fight it. I'm fighting to stay alive. I'm sinking in a marsh. I KNOW YOU HAVE FIGHT IN YOU! You have a strong heart, use it. I know Sa'vere trusts you and...so do I..Please don't let your father win. Sakura feels the marsh getting past her waist.

Azder struggled out of it lashing at his enemies and grabbing Sa'vere. *Sakura if you die I will never forgive you!* He shoved Sa'vere behind him, ashamed for his actions.

"I'm glad you managed to escape that wrath." Sa'vere said softly, glaring at the brothers, "And as for you, your fun has ended."

Azder grabbed Sa'vere and teleported them to the marsh.

"Sakura, give me your hand and we'll pull you out!" Sa'vere caught sight of her and ran over.

Azder stood at the edge of the marsh knowing he would be pulled in too if he tried to help.

Sakura gives Sa'vere her hand. I'm glad you faught it.

Sa'vere then turned to Azder, "Give me your hand and help me to pull her out!"

Azder did and helped to pull her out using his vampiric strength to help

Sakura still feels dizzy from all the events but is away from the sinking ground. "Sa'vere I'm glad your safe...I still feel dizzy."

Azder sat on the ground away from them. *I am a monster..I could have killed Sa'vere.* He thought.

But you didn't. That's what counts. We all have things to regret but we have to live and learn. We still trust you. Sakura falls on her knees.

Azder covers his face. *I don't deserve them!*

"Azder, please don't be upset. I understand that you lost control, but in the end you regained it." Sa'vere said.

Mastudo hisses only Sakura can hear it. YOU LIVE TO SEE ANOTHER DAY CHILD BUT YOUR END WILL COME! COUNT ON THAT YOU LITTLE PEST! I WILL HAVE MY MONEY MWHAHAH Then all is silent again.

I'm sorry I couldn't help you, Sakura. Kehtale padded over, once more in his feline form.

Sakura smiles at Kehtale and pets him. I know you did your best. Thank you for every thing. I hope you don't mind me petting you. My head hurts though.

Azder just shook his head. "You don't understand..."

"I just don't care, so long as everyone is safe." Sa'vere sighed.

Sakura feels frustrated. "Count your blessings Guard dog. You should not dwell mainly on the bad it will bite you. Trust me I know plenty about that. Sa'vere is right everyone is safe." Sakura turns thoughtful to the mans words on wanting her dead for money.

Azder looks away. "Your right..."

Sakura finally falls over and faints. She has lost so much energy from the occurances. GREAT THIS IS EMBARRASSING FAINTING! I AM NOT THAT GIRLY

"Where can we go that is safe?" Azder asked, as he checked to make sure she was all right.

There doesn't seem to be any buildings nearby, our best bet would be to keep moving. Put Sakura on my back. Kehtale said.

Azder did so. *Got room for Sa'vere? She looks tired as well.*

THIS IS NOT RIGHT! I SHOULD HAVE ENERGY! FAINTING IS A WEAKNESS! DARN IT!

There is plenty of room for the both of them.

I'm curious but do we have any kind of plan in action here guys?

Not at all. Kehtale chuckled.

WHAT TELL ME YOU ARE JOKING!

Sadly I'm not, now rest and regain your strength.

Azder placed Sa'vere next to Sakura. *The plan is to stick together and stay alive."

Sakura suddely losses all types of communication then. Everything is dark and silent for Sakura.

We better head out. Kehtale murmured.

Azder took the lead, unsure as to where they were headed.

After a while Sakura shivers and wakes up panting. "Oh my what a dream." She notices the men looking tired.

Azder looked and felt like he was asleep on his feet.

Sakura notices Kehtale is in just as bad of shape. "I see a cave upahead we may need to stop there for rest."

Kehtale nodded his head, to tired to speak.

Sakura helps Azder and Kehtale to the cave. It was abondaned and pretty warm inside. "This will serve as a good resting spot. You boys get some rest. I will stay watch."

Sa'vere awoke a few minutes later, still drowsy, but otherwise relatively well rested. Kehtale collapsed welcomingly on the cave floor, and within seconds was asleep.

"Oh Sa'vere how are you feeling?"

"My muscles are a little sore, but otherwise I'm fine." Sa'vere said.

Sakura nods as she sits on the rock watching for intruders. Mastudo wants to kill to me for money. JUST BECAUSE I SURVIVED IT IS NOT RIGHT!

Sa'vere stretched, "I sure hope we don't run into those childish brothers again." She sighed, joining Sakura.

"I agree with you Sa'vere." Sakura still looks deep in thought

"What are you thinking about?" Sa'vere asked, glancing sideways at her.

"Oh the events that took place. I'm trying to digest it all...I have vampire in me" Sakura looks down after saying that last part.

"You do?" Sa'vere was silent for a moment, "But it's not like something like that matters. I don't care if you have vampire blood in you, Sakura."

Sakura smiles and hugs Sa'vere. Despite that hear warming momet she still feels uneasy with the fact someone is just waiting to kill her.

"Join the club." Azder mumbeled grumpilly, as he laid down ntop rest.

"My guard-dog also has a grumpy side." Sakura sends a teasing look Azders way.

Sa'vere laughed softly at that.

"I'm glad we...well the guys were able to save you."

"Don't call me that!" He snarled.

"Did you get any rest, Azder?" Sa'vere asked.

SAKURA YOU NEED TO BEHAVE! HE DOES NOT NEED YOU TO ANNOY HIM! Sakura just looks outside again.

Azder rolled over to sleep.

"Well... I guess that answers my question then..." Sa'vere said.

Sakura chuckles slightly. He is handsome when he is asleep. Not as much as a handful

"I wonder how long they were walking, I don't even remember going to sleep..." Sa'vere said, looking the two over.

"I'd say four hours. They protected us all that time."

"Now it's our turn..." Sa'vere said softly, "To keep them safe while they regain their energy..."

"Yes it is only fair we do that." Sakura smiles as she remembers what Azder had said but it left her feeling a little confused.

Sa'vere nodded simply, drifting into thought.

"A lot on your mind Sa'vere? Mind sharing a little bit."

"It's nothing really..." Sa'vere sighed.

"You know if you really like Azder. I will back off the playful insulting."

"The playful insults amuse me." Sa'vere murmured.

"Really?"

"Yes... it brightens my mood somehow."

"Ah well then I will continue amusing you then."

She laughed, "I can't wait until all of this is finally over..." She said, "Once I've... fulfilled my duties."

I hope I live to see it. All the pain gone and your love shinning bright "I'm sure you will do a great job."

"I certainly hope so..." She sighed, I've had such strange dreams lately, and I'm beginning to think that maybe with the resurection of the sun I will lose my life... She thought to herself.

"I will try to be with you every step of the way."

"I want you, everybody, to be happy." Sa'vere said.

"Happiness is not an easy thing to achieve." Espeically when you have a greedy man wishing you dead in order to get his money.

"I know it's not..." Sa'vere said, "But it is a goal to work towards."

Azder awoke after awhile but remained laying where he was, he was very troubled.

Sakura feels Azder is awake. "I think Guard dog has a lot on his mind too."

"Let's leave him to his thoughts for now..." Sa'vere laid back against the rock and stared at the dark sky, "I wonder what it would be like to feel the warmth of the sun..."

"Yes me too."

"I heard it burns." Azder mumbled.

"Oh so you are in the same universe as us. That's a relieve guard dog."

I'm sure you've felt it's warmth. Kehtale's sleepy voice found it's way into their minds as he spoke to Azder and Sakura, Whenever that glow is released from Sa'vere's body, the accompanying warmth is what it feels like to lie in the sun...

You're right Kehtale did we wake you?

Sometimes you tend to think too loudly... all of you.

I'm sorry but I think thinking too much would apply here.

Indeed.

Sakura chuckles softly at that and looks Sympathically at Kehtale.

Creating links with the minds of companions sometimes has it's drawbacks, but it is quite useful. Kehtale rolled over.

"I remember the sun..." Azder murmured to soft for any but Kahtale to hear.

As do I. Kehtale murmured to Azder.

Sakura gets into the darker part of the cave and allows tears to fall. She tries not to allow a sob to get out. She cries for her fellow villagers now that she knows what killed them.

Sa'vere stayed where she was, merely staring distantly at the sky. Would she ever truly feel the sun's warmth as the others had or would?

After Sakura dries her tears she puts a comforting hand on Sa'vere's shoulder.

She forced herself to smile at her friend, "I'm glad that I met everyone, you've all been so helpful to me..." She sighed.

"You won't miss the sun because our love for you...will reflect back to you offering the same kind of warmth."

"I think I'm going to get a little more sleep..." Sa'vere said, some of the sorrow in her heart lessening slightly at Sakura's words.

Azder watched, woundering for the hundredth time if he was in the right place, or if he even had one.

Sakura smiles at Azder's pondering. "Azder I don't think it was an accident we all found Sa'vere. She needs each of us. I don't know if there is truly a right place in this world. I hope you don't regret meeting me." I don't know how much time I have in this world. With a greedy blood lusting man wanting to kill me. I will enjoy it as long as I can.

"I don't regret meeting you...it's just.......for so long I served....my father and didn't question if it was right or wrong....intell she was murdered, and I found out it was my father's order. She died to tell me the truth."

"Mind telling me who was murdered?"

"My mother...."

"Oh Azder I'm sorry to hear that... The man who tried to kill me today was the man who betrayed my village. He made some kind of deal and slaughtered everyone either by sword or with the plaque. I know how it feels to lose people you love."

"She was the only one who did....or ever will...." Looks sad. "I am sorry about your village."

"It's ok but Azder we do love you. We each has suffered in some way. To be honest I'm scared of what Mastudo will try next time, now that he knows you all are dear to me." Sakura turns away to hide the light blush appearing on her cheeks.

"But.......do you really mean that?"

"Yes I am not a person who can admit these things unless I feel them completely." Sakura blushes more as the fact becomes clear she never had love outside of her family.

"I thought I never would find love again...."

Sakura looks at Azder with curious eyes. "You didn't? But I thought you and Sa'vere were?"

Looks surprised. "I like her as a friend......no one would love me in any other sense, that is what I was told. I am incapable of love..."

Sakura sits in front of him and looks him in the eye. "Is that why my playful insult touched you so much? To be honest I did not know why I aggravated you when I first met you. I think I was starting to fall in love with you despite what others would tell you about me."

Looks shocked. "You....were?"

Sakura sees fear in his eyes. "Unless you have another explanation for it. I'm sorry I guess I have told you too much."

"I..I don't know what to say....I was told no one would love me..."

"Well I am not anyone important. I'm sorry I have said too much...but I do believe what I told you is true. I have fallen in love with you. I thought you and Sa'vere were close so I deicded to bury it and only tease you." Sakura turns away blushing still.

Azder looked at her feeling happy. "You are important."

"now guard-dog why would you say that?" Sakura tries to tease like she normally would to cover up her blushing.

Azder became bold. "This is why..." He turned her to face him and kissed her long, and deeply.

Sakura is shocked but calms down after a few minutes and falls into the kiss. Is this real? Am I dreaming

Azder smiled into the kiss. *No it is not*

Oh..this is wow...I can't even describe it...

Azder pulled away panting slightly. "I never dreamed I would find some one."

"Why not? You maybe be half demon and vampire but that deson't mean love should be exculded.I'm also curious of when did you fall in love with me?"

"I was attracted from the beggining, than as we progressed I realized it when the Bastard wanted to kill you....I am not a normal vampire-demon....my father is the demon lord...he is the one who wants Sa'vere. I .......helped him take over.." Looks sad.

"It's all right. You didn't allow him to have Sa'vere that's what's important. And that bastard as you call him will keep trying to kill me. He is after money. I guess his deal was to kill everyone in my village no one was to be left alive for him to get this so called large sum...I don't know how I survived....I remeber getting cut on my writs...but then nothing.." Sakura shows Azder the large and long scar.

Sa'vere lay silently in the cave, listening to their conversation though not acknowledging that she was. She felt a small tinge of sadness, but said nothing. It is for their happiness after all... She thought to herself.

After she shows Azder her wound that wll stay. Sakura looks over at Sa'vere and knows she feels a twing of sadness. Sa'vere I know you love him too. He still needs more than my love to help him find the place he belongs. I don't know if I will live long there are no guarntees for me.

Sakura, I will do all that I can to ensure that you survive, for in the end, I myself must give up my life... and I would gladly do so for the happiness of my friends and people. Sa'vere said simply.

Sa'vere....know that I meant what I said earlier. We all care for you. I believe we were ment to find you and help you with your journey. Through the good and bad we are ment to aid you.

I am glad that you are all here. Were I on my own I'd have been dead my first night out here. Sa'vere said silently.

I don't know about that but I'm glad to have met you.

It's true though, before I met Azder I knew absolutely nothing about how to fight.

Sakura smiles but she heres Kehtale turn and groan. I think we better tone down our thoughts.

Sometimes I forget that he can hear them so clearly. Sa'vere murmured, shifting her position slightly.

I'm still learning. I feel bad that he has to suffer through our mental dialogues. Sakura giggles a little at that.

Azder shook in anger at the sight of the scar, but said nothing out loud. *That Bastard will pay!*

Sa'vere sighed softly, and this time she allowed herself to drift into sleep.

Sakura raises and eyebrow at Azder's reaction. "um guard-dog you may want to tone down the thought.Kehtale may not be so nice about our thinking too much."

"Well maybe. I don't give a damn!"

Sakura rolls her eyes and just kisses him seeing if that helps cool his temper.

He stops and just glowers at Kahtale. "sorry." he mumbles.

"did that help?" Sakura blushes slightly at her hasty action.

He nods still angry at her uncle, and wanting to kill him.

"Azder having rage agains Mustdo will not help things. I get the feeling that his reason for killing me is greed based but also very personal. Although I am not sure what I did to make him so angry."

"He probably will help my father, to get revenge on all of us."

"I think he all ready made a deal with your father. He did out of greed and something other then that. He needed to kill everyone but I lived that's why he can't get his money."


"i don't know if they want me dead or alive. My father never liked traitors, but he said I had a talent he valued."

"I guess I am basically a traitor too in Mastudo's eyes. That's another thing we have in common."

"Why? Becouse you wouldn't let him kill you for money?"

"I don't think it is that simple. They way he mentioned my father it would seem that he held some hate toward him."

"He shouldn't hate you for that."

"I also think he hates the fact I'm the offspring of his brother. Like I said it is very personal. He nearly succeeded but what I am curious about is what saved me that day?"

Azder's memory was stirred a little. "I think I know..."

"What? Were you there?" Sakura looks at Azder curiously. Is that how he knew your name? But how?

"My father sent me there for....bussiness, I saw you and saved you."

Sakura pales but still keeps her curious gaze. "How bad off was I and why did you save me?"

"you were nearly dead."

"I see but was there a reason you saved me?" Sakura looks in his eyes curious. She figures he was suppose to aid Mastudo in the masscar.

"You reminded me of someone."

Sakura looks away and whispers "your mother right?"

"yes."

Sakura nods at his answer. "Where you suppose to give Mastudo assitance? I won't get upset if you say yes. I'm just curious to see if my suspicion is true." Sa'vere please rest well.

"I was sent to find somone. He killed all but you before I arrived."

"Oh...so you saved me beause I reminded you of your mother? I thought you did look a litte fimilar. I was somewhat awake when you treated me. I remeber seeing your hair color."

He looked surprised at that. "I thought you were unconsciuous."

"No...I was in a massive amount of pain. I didn't really pass out until I was exposed to the cold rain that day. I was scared at first that you were going to kill me but after a few minuets I was willing to let you kill me."

I didn't." He replied softly.

"I know. I still feel guilty for surviving that I wasn't able to save anyone. Who were you suppose to find?"

"His name was Mared."

"Mared? He was the head of the counsil. He was also my fathers cousin. Why him?"

"He had something my father wanted.."

"He guarded that vase that held the plaque."

Looks away. "I know.."

"You were going to use it weren't you? Or your father was going to use it. Right?"

Nods sadly. "Yes. My father..."

"I see. Well Mastudo has it and will probably try to use it on me. That's why I'm affraid to stay in large groups because he has that vase."
"It will not effect me or Kahtale."

"Sa'vere and I would not have anyway to fight against it. It's a slow progress plaque.It works on the muscles then you get sick easily. You slowly loose eye sight and see hullicanations.. It's a horrible disease."

"I will do all in my power to protect both of you."

"Thank you..I'm still surprised that you bothered to save me. Mastudo just sneered at me when he injuried me and said I was not worth his effort."

"He will die!"

Sakura just kisses Azder again.

He returns it gently.

Sakura pulls away. "Um are you getting tired of me kissing you?"

"No." Kisses her again.

Guard dog I figured you were a killer amoung women but I did not think you could kiss like this.

He grins. *Is that a compliment?*

MAYYYBE MAYYBEE NOT

Cocks a brow.

Not telling you Guard-dog your ego is getting big.

Rolls over on to his back. "Don't call me that."

"Sorry it's become a habbit. I will try to behave Azder." Sakura lays down near the entrance of the cave.

"After I left. Did you wonder about me?"

"I didn't just wonder I was very curious about you. I was so confused on why any man would bother to save my life. Most of the village men did not think I was worthy of their affection."

"Why is that? You are strong, beautiful, and intelligent."

"Ok Azder I was not physically strong. There were women more beautiful then me and intelligence was a vice not a virtue."

"You are the most beautiful girl I have ever seen, you are strong, and I value inteligence."

Sakura blushes at that but she is not facing him. "you don't mean that. Trust me there are plenty of more accomplished women then me."

"Then maybe I should look for them." He teased with out realizing his humor.

"Sure and while your at it could you tell them to write me a letter." Sakura teases back.

"Hmmm good idea."

Sakura just laughs lightly but she stops as she remembers the compliments of the guys she tried to court. You are too cold. Not strong enough. Poor Figure. Too needy for attention. Not enough adventurous personality.

Azder looks over to her. "What is it?"

Sakura shakes her head. "It s nothing just an unpleaent memory is all."

Azder walked over and hugged her. "Tell me."

"I was thinking about the guys I tried to romance but all had plenty of negitive comments about me. You are too cold. Not strong enough. Poor Figure. Too needy for attention. Not enough adventurous personality these are the ones they would tell me."

"they were fools then. You are all those things and more!"

Sakura shakes her head. "Azder you were suspicious that I would kill Sa'vere. I guess my family has a bit of a bad history. Some of the negitive are true I can be cool and well I am not physically strong."

"I was jumping to conclusions, I had forgotten who you were. Who cares if you are not the strongest person, who is?"

"My village valued strength physically. Also skill in exterminating enemies. Father did not even bother with training me so I had to get someone else to train me."

"They were idiots and deserved death then."

"AZDER! True they were some bad things but I also had friends and a faimly." Sakura sounds a little hurt.

Looks guilty. "Your right..I am sorry."

Sakura kisses Azder once and lays facing outside of the cave. "I understand don't worry I forgive you."

"I don't understand humans."

Sakura smiles and faces him again. "I know and I'm sorry about causing your head to spin."

"I am used to it."

"Actually I think a better phrase for you is you don't understand humans and women. Just a thought. If you find someone you love more then me tell me."

Looks hurt. "You think I am like that?!"

Sakura shakes her head. "No I'm just saying if you find someone who...oh this sounds horrible..I'm sorry... I need to work on my talking to men skills.

"Good Night!" He rolls over angerly.

"Good night. Azder." Sakura walks over to the cold side of the cave and let the rain hit her. Mastudo laughs again in Sakura's head. I told you. Fear not dear niece I will mercifully end your suffereing. Azder will not have to deal with you too much longer. "SHUT UP LEAVE ME ALONE!" Sakura curls into a ball.

Azder silently cried. The elders were right no one would love him, they would only want to be rid of him.

Sakura suddenly starts to bleed. Yes BLEED NIECE! I WANT YOUR DEATH TO BE SLOW ...Az...Az.der...I'm....sorry...*coughs* I do...love you... STOP PLEADING CHILD NOW DIE SILENTLY! Azder does not need to hear your pitiful plea.

Azder looks over and his eyes widen in horror. He rushes over and hands her a vile. "Drink this!"

Sakura tries to reach for it but her hands starts to bleed. "I'm...sorry...I didn't mean to...hurt you *cough.*

"It's all right. I should have known better." forces her to drink it, making the wounds heal.

One potion will not be enough this blade has my hatred. It will burn you Sakura. Say hello to my brother for me WHAHAAH! Azder give it up she don' love you. Sakura feels the burn. "Azder I feel hot."

Azder looks panicked. "Forgive me, it's the only way..." He gently holds her and suddenly bites into her neck.

Sakura gasps at the bite and allows a breath out.

Azder pulls away biting his wrist and offering his blood to Sakura.

Sakura looks very confused at this. "Um why are you doing this?"

"It will save you...turn you..."

Sakura feels a little scared but she trusts Azder. "I see. What should I accept your blood or are you placing your blood on my wound. Wait are you basically claiming me?" AZDER YOU ARE GOING TO TURN MY NIECE INTO A VAMPIRE! NO YOU'LL RUIN MY PLAN!

Azder waits no longer and presses his hand to her mouth knowing the hunger would kick in. *I am doing just that!* He shot back at her uncle.

Sakura losses her senses but does not lash out in hunger. NO YOU WERE NOT SUPPOSE TO DO THAT! ARE YOU CLAIMING HER TOO! IF SO YOUR FATHER WILL NOT BE PLEASED!

*I don't give a damn if he is or is not!* Azder said pressing his wrist to give her his blood.

Sakura breathes and does snap the teeth once because of the pain in the transformation. GREAT YOU ARE CLAIMING HER! Now how am I suppose to kill her.

Azder winces as she bites down but he maitains the connection. *You aren't!*

I WILL FIND A WAY SAKURA MUST DIE! WHAHAHAHA! The connection is gone and Sakura regains some of her senses. She sees Azder wincing. She lossens the bite.

Azder lets his hand fall, and smiles at her.

"Azder what exactly happened?" She remembers the bite but not much after that.

"I...turned you."

"Oh...I see" Sakura does begin to feel the difference. "You know I don't think it was that painful. How different do I look?"

"You don't love."

Sakura notices the love in the end. "Ok I think I was going to ask you if you were basically claiming me."

"I all ready did."

"Yo...you did." Sakura blushes at that. "Um how was my blood?"

"It was sweet."

Sakura blushes more at that. "sweet huh? Mind telling me what exactly I should expect since I am yours."

He shruggs "I have never claimed anyone before, so I don't know."

"WHAT! Oh this is interesting. What about that claiming proclamation was this what it really was about?"

"No. That was the right since you were human."

"Ok now I'm going have to get use to this. Azder I hope you know that I am sorry about earlier. I just wanted you to know you have the freedom to chose if you want me to stay or go. This is something I am a vampire."

"Not. quiet, to become a full vampire you must feed on a human. And I know you are."

Sakura shivers. "Great more good news. You saved me again. Was it really what you wanted?"

"I did what I had to to save you."

Sakura hugs him and not sure if she can really kiss him now."Thank you. I'll need to ajust but I will be fine."

"Do you hate me?" Azder asked sadly.

Sakura shakes her head. "No love how could I hate yo
u. I am just unsure of what is what."

"So am I." Azder sighs.

Sakura decides to take the chance and kiss Azder. Please don't be worried. I still love you. I just need to adjust.

"I understand." He replied.

Sakura smiles but feels really tired. "Azder does this change anything about us?" She leans aginst a rock.

"Like what?" He asked.

"Will you have to treat me differently? Will you still love me?" Sakura looks at Azder and waits.

"Of course I will still love you! I don't have to treat you any different." He replied.

Sakura nods and yawns feeling exhausted. "Man that transformation takes a lot out of a person. Would you like me to sleep near you Azder? If you don't that's fine."

He gently wrapped his arms around her and laid down. "Does that answer your question?" He smiled.

Sakura blushes but laughs. "My I didn't think you'd like the idea but oh well. I guess your are findings perks in claiming me hmm?" Sakura lays her head on his chest.

He sighs happily. "Besides the closer you are the better I can watch you."

Sakura laughs again. "Are you my personal Guard-dog now?" Sakura yawns again.

"If you want me to be since I can't get you to stop calling me that."

"I cant help it. I think it fits you. You can call me stupid girl if you want." Sakura yawns again and nuzzles Azder.

Sighs. "I was afraid you would say that."

Sakura smiles and touches Azders' face. "Ok I will try not to call you that as much." Sakura yawns snuggling up to Azder and goes to sleep.

Azder holds on to her and keeps watch.

wid- chapter 7