LotS/TB Crossover: Blood Ties Pt 8 (Cara/Kahlan)
Title: Blood Ties
Part: Eight
Pariing: Kahlan/Cara
Rating: Um, let's go with a hard R.
Count: 6145
Disclaimer: Blah blah blah nothing belongs to me blah blah blah. [/Pam's voice]
Summary: Cara's a vamp. Kahlan's a... *shifty eyes* human. They meet. Stuff happens. I hate writing out summaries.
A/N: I'd like to give a big, wet, sloppy thanks to huffstodt for the general pain in my ass help she's been. Thank you, my dearest Homeslice. Fer realz. She knows so much more about TB than I could ever.
A/N 2: I'm not entirely happy with the last bit. But frankly, I just wanted to get this posted. JSYK.
~*~*~
The stairwell leading up to the second floor of the nightclub was quiet and Kahlan breathed out a sigh of relief. She could still hear the muted thump-thump of the deafening electronic music coming from the club itself and her ears were still ringing but at least she was now away from the chaos. And it was chaos, there was no other word for it.
As they had made their way through the sea of leather and vinyl and spikes and chains, Kahlan had practically glued herself to Cara’s back. Afraid that if she lost contact with the vampire, she would’ve been lost for days in the sea of people who were dancing and grinding against each other.
Meanwhile, Cara had walked through it all like she owned the place.
Now, after reaching and then entering the door that led to the upstairs, Kahlan let some of the tension uncoil within her.
Cara paused to look at her. “Are you okay?” She asked, a tinge of amusement coloring her voice.
“I could use a bath right about now but, at least I survived.”
Cara smiled sympathetically, holding out her hand to Kahlan. “Come on.” She gestured up the darken stairs with a tilt of her head. Kahlan accepted the hand and the two of them ascended the stairs.
“Remember what I said,” Cara spoke. “You are mine. So long as everyone knows that, you’ll be alright. It’s against the rules to take or feed on another vampire’s human.”
“Right,” Kahlan nodded. “I’m your pet,” she said, teasingly.
“You don’t have to go that far.” Cara grinned. “Though I’m certainly willing to entertain the idea,” she added, with an enticing lift of an eyebrow.
Kahlan stroked Cara’s arm with her free hand. Her voice momentarily taking on a breathy tone. “Perhaps when this is all over, I might let you.”
“Hmm, I’ll hold you to that.” Cara whispered, leaning over to place a chaste but promise-filled kiss on Kahlan’s lips.
They stopped just before the top door and Cara’s face turned serious. “There will be a lot of vampires feeding. The humans are willing, but it still may seem…”
“Depraved?”
“Something like that.” Cara knitted her brow.
Kahlan smiled endearingly at her. “I’ll be fine,” she reassured. Cara nodded.
“Just stay close to me.”
Cara schooled her face to one of indifference and opened the door. Kahlan felt her eyes widened for a moment at the sight of the club lounge. The room was large and dimly lit. Plush couches lined every wall except for the one facing the rest of the club, where it was nothing but a giant window, overseeing the mass of people on the floor below. As Cara had warned, much of the space was filled with vampires feeding off of humans but that wasn’t what caught Kahlan off guard. It was how most of those humans were decidedly unclothed. Most were women but a few men were scattered around as well. Kahlan couldn’t remember seeing so much naked flesh in one place. She felt her face heat and was sure it was beet red. It appeared everyone was enjoying themselves. A lot.
Kahlan just kept her eyes trained on Cara’s back, as the blonde led them to the farthest wall on the opposite side of the room. Half way there, a particularly loud moan came from Kahlan’s right which caused her to look over. There was a woman sprawled naked on a couch, a head moving impossibly fast between her legs. The woman looked back at Kahlan, licking her lips. Kahlan could not avert her eyes away quick enough.
She was so set on not looking around that she nearly bumped into Cara when the vampire suddenly stopped. Looking beyond the blonde‘s shoulder, Kahlan saw yet another naked woman writhing on the largest couch in the room. Two vampires were on either side of her, feeding. One, with long chestnut hair pulled back in a braid, was feeding from the woman’s wrist. The other, whose raven hair was in an identical braid, feeding on the woman’s inner thigh.
Cara crossed her arms below her breasts, canting her hip to the side. “I see you two haven’t changed a bit,” she said dryly.
The lighter-haired vampire pulled her mouth away from the wrist she had been sucking from, mouth stained a dark red. Her blue eyes twinkled at Cara. “Cara.” She smiled. “You’re looking as surly as ever.” She leaned back against the couch, letting the woman’s hand fall without a thought.
“Which…” The dark haired vampire lifted her head up from the woman’s thigh. “Means Cara here hasn’t changed at all herself,” she drawled, gazing at her companion. Cara smirked.
“Berdine. Raina,” she greeted with a slight nod.
The naked woman they had been feeding from moaned, disgruntled that the vampires stopped.
“Yeah, you’re done.” Berdine pushed at the woman, dismissively.
“Go find someone else to play with,” Raina finished. The woman shuffled off the couch and staggered away with a displeased expression that no one seemed to care enough to notice. Once she was out of the way, Raina slid over and rested her head against Berdine’s shoulder, Berdine wrapping an arm around her waist.
“So, must be pretty bad. I’ve never known Cara Mason to ask for anyone’s help before,” Berdine grinned, speaking casually.
“Let me guess,” Raina said, mock-thoughtfully, “It has something to do with that psychotic bitch of a Maker you have?”
“We will not discuss this here.” Cara’s voice turned low and dangerous.
Raina nodded. “Thought so.”
All the while, Kahlan lingered behind Cara, silent and unmoving. Trying not to draw attention to herself. She trusted Cara to know what she was doing. But these vampires were really making her nervous. Unfortunately, they were bound to notice her at some point.
“Cara, is this your human?” Berdine leered at Kahlan, who used all her willpower not to shrink back.
“Or is she a gift?” Raina asked, eyes wondering over Kahlan. “You know, for our services?” She cast a hopeful look at Cara.
“She’s mine,” Cara growled warningly at the two.
Berdine and Raina shot amused glances at each other.
“I take it back,” Raina said, smiling, “You have changed. You used to be more fun.”
Cara took an impatient step towards them. “Office. Now.”
“Fine,” Berdine huffed.
~*~*~
“I have no idea what kind of shit you’ve gotten yourself into, but if it involves Nicci then I think I know why you’re here. And believe me when I say,” Berdine perched herself on the edge of the large desk. “She will not be pleased.”
“I kinda figured,” Cara responded sarcastically. She and Kahlan had settled themselves on the office couch with Kahlan practically molding herself to Cara’s right side. Even though the blonde had told her it was okay now, that the illusion of ‘human pet’ was no longer needed in Berdine and Raina’s presence.
“We can’t even be sure she will see you,” Raina said from where she leaned against the wall. “You know how she feels about you.”
“The only problem she’s ever had with me was because I was Nicci’s.” Cara explained logically. “I need to see her as quickly as possible.”
Berdine pulled her braid from behind her, idly playing with it as she studied Cara. After a long moment, she finally spoke. “What’s going on, Cara? When you called, you sounded so panicked. I have known you a long time and never. Never. Have I ever known you to panic.”
Cara sighed, setting her hand on Kahlan’s beside her. A move that did not go unnoticed by Berdine and Raina, who raised simultaneously eyebrows.
“It’s nothing to get you two involved in. In fact, it’s better if you don’t.”
“Ha!” Berdine scoffed. “Oh, now I really need to know.” She smiled amusedly, looking over at Raina. “You hear that? Cara’s concerned about us.”
“It is intriguing.” Raina replied, bemused.
Cara just glared daggers at them.
Throughout the conversation, Kahlan felt herself start to relax. She was quickly realizing that her first impression of these two wasn‘t entirely accurate. She had seen them as deadly seductresses who wouldn’t hesitate to drain her dry at the first chance. Those thoughts were probably true but as Kahlan sat there, watching Cara and them interact, it was like watching old friends good-naturedly poking fun at each other.
“C’mon, Cara. You might as well tell us. We’ll find out eventually anyways,” Berdine prodded.
Cara looked to Kahlan. Berdine was right. Most likely, they would end up involved and it was only fair that they know just exactly what it was they would be getting themselves into. With another sigh, Cara tried to explain.
“Kahlan here, is a-”
“Cara?” Kahlan wasn’t sure if it was wise to divulge what she was. Not to another vampire. Cara squeezed Kahlan’s hand.
“It’s okay. I trust them,” she reassured quietly to the brunette. “Despite how annoying they are,” she added, glaring back at the two, exasperatedly. Berdine and Raina merely grinned. Cara rolled her eyes before looking back at Kahlan, silently asking her to understand. After a second or two, Kahlan nodded, squeezing Cara’s hand back. Cara went on.
“Kahlan’s a Confessor.”
Berdine’s eyes went wide. “Really?” Then a thought occurred to her and she laughed. “No wonder you’re in hiding from Nicci,” she said with smirk at Kahlan.
“I should’ve known you would know about this,” Cara muttered, shaking her head. At Kahlan’s look, she elaborated. “Berdine is somewhat of a scholar-type.” Kahlan mouth formed a silent ‘oh’.
“I don’t know a lot but I know enough. I do not envy you right now.” Berdine chuckled at Cara, who huffed.
“You are so fucking helpful, Berdine,” Cara all but growled. Berdine continued to laugh.
“What’s a Confessor?” Raina asked. Berdine turned to her.
“The Confessors were an order of women, from two-”
“Explain to her later!” Cara yelled, frustrated. “I need to see Shota now.”
“Relax, I’ll take you.” Berdine sighed.
“We need to go now. Nicci has Kahlan’s friend,” Cara explained. “She’s the only bargaining chip Nicci has so she’ll be safe for a while, but you know how Nicci is.” Cara felt Kahlan’s grip on her hand tighten.
Berdine stood up. Casting another glance at Raina, she could see her lover was just as confused as she was. They had never seen Cara show such distress over a human. “Well, let’s go then.” Both Cara and Kahlan stood. Berdine raised a hand. “Wait, no. Sorry, but you can’t come.” She pointed to Kahlan.
“Why not?” Kahlan looked back and forth between Cara and Berdine.
“Shota is… eccentric” Berdine explained. Cara snorted. “It’s bad enough I’m bringing Cara but if I were to bring a human…? Yeah, that’s not happening,” she concluded with absolute finality. Kahlan was about to argue but Cara cut in.
“She’s right. You’re going to have to wait. We won’t be gone too long,” she said apologetically.
“Wait? Wait here?” Kahlan did not like that idea at all.
Cara set her hand on Kahlan’s hip, trying to reassure her. “Raina will keep you company, and keep you safe.” Kahlan looked nervously over at the raven haired woman, who grinned a little too lasciviously at her.
“Um… Cara. I‘m not so sure-”
“It’ll be fine. Raina.” Cara glared warningly at the other vampire. “Will be on her best behavior. Won’t you?”
“I promise. Cross my heart.” Raina made a crossing motion over her chest, still directing an unnerving smile at Kahlan.
Kahlan swallowed before looking back to Cara. “Okay. If you trust her,” she whispered.
“I do.” Cara placed a kiss on Kahlan’s lips. “I’ll be back soon,” she vowed softly. Kahlan nodded.
Cara turned back towards Berdine, who seemed quite entertained by their little moment. Cara scowled at her. “Not a word.”
Berdine threw her hands up. “Wasn’t gonna say a thing.” She led Cara out the office door, sighing. “Shota is going to kill me for this, I hope you know.” Cara simply shrugged.
“You’ll get over it.”
Kahlan nervously sat back down, eyes steadfastly avoiding the only vampire left in the room.
Raina sauntered over to the desk, taking the same position Berdine had been moments before. She tilted her head at Kahlan, giving her the once-over. A devious grin formed on her face.
“Do you want to play a game?”
Kahlan shrank further into the couch.
~*~*~
Berdine carefully maneuvered her car on the dirt road and through the dense forest just outside of town. During the ride, the two of them had remained silent. Every so often, Berdine’s light blue eyes would shift sideways to glance at the blonde in the passenger seat. Finally, Cara let out a frustrated sigh.
“Whatever it is, just say it.” She could feel Berdine’s gaze and knew it was only a matter of time before light-brown haired woman would start in on her.
“You’re in love,” Berdine stated softly. Cara’s wide eyes shot towards her.
“What?”
Berdine continued to watch the small road ahead of them. “I never thought I’d live to see the day,” she mused. “And that’s saying something. Considering our immortality.”
“Perhaps that braid of yours is a little too tight and it’s affecting your brain. I am not in love,” Cara grumbled.
Berdine went on as if Cara had never spoken. “And with a human. My,” she shook her head. “What has the world come to?”
“Your world is going to come to an excruciating end if you do not shut the fuck up,” Cara warned. Berdine just chuckled quietly, unfazed.
“Cara. You know, it’s not so bad. Despite what you may think, or what anyone may think, you are capable of loving someone and…” Berdine regarded the blonde for a moment. “I think it’s way past due. Especially after-”
“Don’t you dare say her name.” Cara growled. “This is nothing like her.”
“After only five minutes with you and Kahlan, that is more than evident.” Berdine focused back on the road. After a long moment, she spoke softly. “Whether you accept it or not, it looks good on you.” Cara frowned, confused.
“What does?”
“Love.” Berdine smiled gently at her.
Cara just looked out the side window, deep in thought. Berdine let her brood for a while. She knew Cara, probably better than anyone. She knew the blonde didn’t believe her, or rather, didn’t want to believe her. But in time, Berdine knew it would eventually sink in. For now, she would just change the subject.
“So. Why am I taking you to Shota? You said that Nicci is holding a human hostage? Why not just go the Authority? Or even,” Berdine snickered. “the AVL*? I‘m sure they would be willing to do anything to keep our ‘wholesome‘ image intact. A kidnapped human isn‘t exactly the best publicity.”
“Oh, please,” Cara scoffed. “The only time those bureaucratic jerk-offs give a damn is after the fact. And then it’s all about cleaning up the mess. And besides… you know I like to take care of things myself.”
“Yeah, I know.” Berdine grinned. “But still. Shota? I don’t know what you could possibly think she’d be willing to do for you. Especially over a human.”
Cara sat quietly for a few seconds. “There’s more to it than that,” she muttered.
“I gathered.” Berdine looked over. “This is more about Kahlan than her friend,” she stated knowingly. Cara continued to stare out the window, watching but not really seeing the forest pass by.
“How much do you know about Confessors?”
“I know enough to know that if this was a couple millenniums ago, this would all be a great cause for concern. But now…?” Berdine shook her head dismissively. “I don’t get it.”
“That makes two of us.” Cara exhaled. “But you know Nicci.” Berdine nodded.
“I do.”
Around them, the forest grew thicker and the dirt road they traveled tapered. Ahead of them, Cara could see a large house slowly emerge. It was like a giant log cabin built into the base of a mountain; more then comfortable in its size but far from extravagant. Berdine slowed the car to a stop.
“Here we are.”
They both exited the car and before Cara started towards the front door, Berdine darted to the trunk. She opened it, pulling out a duffle bag. After closing the trunk, she gestured to the house. “Shall we?” she said, passing Cara.
The door wasn’t locked and Berdine didn’t bother to knock. As they entered, Cara noticed how the interior was almost bare. A few animal skins draped the walls and what little furniture there was, was simple. Berdine led her to a second door which took them down into the basement. Once there, Cara could tell that this was where Shota actually lived. It seemed as if the basement was dug out of the mountain rock itself. The walls were lined with shelves of books and other oddities. A simple round wooden table was placed in the center of the space, a bowl set on top of it. And standing there, with her back to them was Shota, slightly hunched over from peering into the bowl.
“Cara,” the auburn-haired woman greeted, not bothering to turn towards them. “I was expecting you sooner.”
Cara raised an eyebrow, looking over at Berdine, who just shrugged back. “Were you?”
“Yes.” Shota faced them, clasping her hands in front of her. “Berdine.” She nodded towards the vampire, who lifted the duffle bag.
“I know it’s a little early but I brought you some more-”
“Yes, yes. You may put it away.” Shota waved a hand in the direction of a small refrigerator in the corner behind her.
While Berdine hurried off to do as she was told, Shota stepped closer to Cara.
“Does it surprise you that I have been awaiting your arrival?”
Cara crossed her arms. “Not really. What does surprise me is that you aren’t currently trying to rip off my head.” Shota actually laughed.
“Oh, Cara. After what I’ve seen, your permanent death is the last thing passing through my mind.”
Cara scrunched her eyebrows together. “So you know…?”
“I know. Or at least…” Shota paused, considering her words. “I know all that I need to know.”
“And what does that mean?” Cara asked, exasperatedly. “And please. Can you for once explain without the riddles?”
Shota smiled, turning away and heading further into the basement. “Come,” she beckoned.
Cara’s eyes rolled up in frustration. This is what you get with a vampire who also just so happens to be a seer.
~*~*~
“Ha! Park Place! Pay up.”
Raina scowled. “You’re lucky you’re Cara’s human. Otherwise I’d have you on the rack right about now,” she muttered, handing Kahlan the colorful game money.
“You’re just mad I’m kicking your ass,” Kahlan teased, reaching for the dice.
“No one likes a gloater.”
Kahlan rolled the dice and moved her little dog piece on the board. Grabbing a card from the stack and reading it, her arms shot up in victory.
“Yes! Advance to Go.” Raina growled at her, and that would’ve initially made Kahlan recoil in fear but after almost an hour of playing this game with the vampire, Kahlan could only find it amusing.
Kahlan hated to admit it but she was enjoying herself. Though guilt and worry and fear still weighed heavily on her about Denna, Cara had managed to put her at a slight ease. Explaining to her that as long as Denna remained alive, Nicci believed she had the upper hand. Still, all throughout the past day, Kahlan had been distraught. But sitting here, with Raina, playing a simple board game had allowed Kahlan to relax.
“Raina?” Kahlan asked softly, focusing on the board in front of her. “How long have you known Cara?”
Raina smiled knowingly at Kahlan. “Almost my entire life as a vampire.” She picked up the dice, rolling them in her hand. “I assume you have questions? Questions Cara is too stubborn to answer?”
“Actually, I haven’t really asked. Guess I’ve always been too nervous about it. Cara can be really…” she trailed off. Raina nodded.
“Secretive. I know. She’s always been like that.” The vampire threw the dice, moving her car along the board. “I can’t tell you anything about her before she was turned. Cara has always refused to talk about that.” Kahlan looked up at her.
“And after?”
Raina shrugged her shoulders, speaking simply. “About what you would expect of a vampire.” She thought for a moment. “Though maybe a little more disciplined, I guess. Having Nicci for a Maker leaves one with little choice in that. That bitch has always been like a tyrant. And Cara was her favorite. Which by the way, is not a particularly desirable position to have.
“Oh.” Kahlan worried her bottom lip. “Were they… Lovers?” She asked hesitantly.
“In the beginning. I think most vampires are at some point when they turn someone. Well, actually, in Cara and Nicci’s case I don’t think the term ‘lover’ is accurate,” she rephrased. “Love had little if nothing to do with what they did.” Her grin the very picture of lewd.
“Oh,” Kahlan repeated, blushing a little. Though it was irrational, she felt a slight pang of jealousy. Raina smirked.
“Perhaps, it would be best to ask Cara these questions. God knows, if she were to find out about me talking to you about her past, I’d be the one on the rack.” Raina chuckled. Kahlan nodded absently.
“Yeah, your right.” She decided to change the subject. “So, you and Berdine?” The vampire smiled.
“Are lovers, yes.”
“How long have you two been together?”
“Since before Shota turned us. Two hundred and fifty-three years ago.” Raina answered, wistfully.
“That’s… a long time,” Kahlan breathed out, amazed. “Even as humans, you were together?” Raina nodded.
“Yep. I remember the night Shota offered to turn us. Berdine and I were just a couple of farm girls, hiding in the woods as it was the only place where we could be together without anyone’s prying eyes on us. I hated it. Having to hide our love out of fear of the simpleton townsfolk beating or stoning us to death.” Raina glowered. “So when Shota offered us a way to be together, forever, without fear or shame…” she shrugged, “We jumped at the chance. Even though at the time we had no idea what she was really offering us.” Raina laughed to herself. “I would not trade it for the world.”
Kahlan realized she was smiling softly at the vampire. “It sounds… It actually sounds kinda romantic,” she offered a little sheepishly. “In a twisted sorta way.” They grinned at each other. Kahlan cleared her throat. “So Shota… She can help me and Cara?”
“Honestly? I don’t really know what Cara expects from her. Yes, she’s older and stronger than Nicci but I just don’t see Shota lifting a single finger to help. Unless…”
“Unless what?”
Raina sighed. “Before Shota was turned, she was a seer.” Kahlan furrowed her brows.
“Like… she can see the future?”
“In a way,” Raina tried to explain. “It’s all vague and never direct. I never really understood it all. Berdine and I just supply her with blood and whatever else she needs. She’s the very definition of recluse.”
“So, you think that’s why Cara went to see her?” Kahlan asked incredulously. It sounded ridiculous to her.
“Maybe one of the reasons. That’s another thing you’ll have to ask Cara.”
~*~*~
Cara crossed her arms and leaned against a book shelf.
“So, are going to help me or not?”
Shota continued to stare into her bowl of water. “You have no need of my help,” she answered dismissively.
“Did you not hear a word I just said?” She angrily stepped closer to Shota.
“I did.”
“Well then what the hell am I supposed to do?”
“Cara.” Shota calmly turned towards the irate vampire. “I do not need to help you. I have seen some of what will come to pass. I know what you must do. I can tell you that and nothing more.”
“What must I do?” Cara asked impatiently.
“Give Kahlan Amnell to Nicci.”
Cara stared at her.
And stared.
Until finally. “Fuck you.”
“Cara-” Berdine nervously began.
“No!” Cara looked at the taller vampire before turning her ire back on Shota. “Fuck you! You are out of your mind. I came here to ask for your help and you tell me to give Kahlan over to the one person I‘m trying to protect her from?” She threw her hands up angrily. “I knew you had a few screws loose, but this? This is abso-fucking-lutely insane!” Shota remained unbothered.
“It is what must be done.”
“How can you say that? You don’t care what happens to Kahlan, I get that. But you’re telling me to give what could be a powerful weapon over to the one person you hate the most? Knowing it could, I dunno, doom the world?” Shota did not reply. After a long moment of silence, Cara laughed mirthlessly, shaking her head. “I knew this was a waste of time,” she muttered to herself. “How? How is doing that going to help?”
“In order to save many, a sacrifice must be made,” Shota intoned calmly.
Cara’s eyes fluttered and rolled back in annoyance. “What. Does that. Even. Mean?” She grounded out through clenched teeth. Shota sighed as if Cara were a petulant child.
“Cara. I do not have all the answers you seek.”
“Then why are you telling me to sacrifice Kahlan if you don’t know what will happen?”
Shota smiled at her. “I did not say it would be your human who will be sacrificed,” she answered, sounding pleased with herself.
Cara could feel her rage boiling over the surface. This is what she gets for coming to the seer. But her anger was pointless. Much like this conversation. So she forced herself to calm somewhat, knowing she had no one to blame but herself for coming here in the first place. “Why can’t you just say what you mean? Why must you always be so damned ambiguous?” She asked. In the corner of her eye, she saw Berdine trying to not laugh. Cara made a mental note to smack her later. For now, she stayed focused on Shota. “So who will be sacrificed? Me?”
Shota’s eyes penetrated Cara’s. “Yes.”
Cara pursed her lips. “I’m going to die? How is that going to stop anything?”
Shota turned back to her bowl. Cara couldn’t tell if she was looking for something or just bored with this conversation. “Your… sacrifice… will be necessary to set in motion that which will end Nicci.”
“And save Kahlan?” Cara couldn’t keep the eagerness out of her voice. Concern for her own death passed through her like water. It didn’t matter. She would throw herself into the sun if it meant Kahlan was safe.
“It will,” Shota offered absently. Cara nodded, resolute.
“Fine. If that’s what it takes. But I am not giving Kahlan to Nicci.”
“I did not think you would, though it does not matter. Nicci will have her anyway,” Shota replied, airily.
Cara didn’t respond. There was no point. Instead, she turned to Berdine. “Let’s go.” She was done with this conversation. Done with Shota.
As Cara and Berdine headed towards the stairs, Shota turned back to them. “Oh, Cara?” The blonde sighed, pausing.
“What?”
“Don’t you want to know how you will be… sacrificed?”
“How?” Cara asked with an exasperated roll of her eyes. She didn’t really care, she just wanted to get out of there. Shota smiled.
“It will be by Kahlan Amnell.”
~*~*~
The whole ride back to the club had been deathly silent. Cara was deep in thought, as was expected. She didn’t want to think about what Shota had said. She wanted to believe that it was all a game the vampire seer was playing with her. It certainly wouldn’t be the first time. However, a part of Cara couldn’t help but consider the likely truth in Shota’s words. It wasn’t her potential death that bothered her, nor the possibility that Kahlan would be the one to do it. One thing Cara had learned in her previous dealings with Shota was that nothing she “sees” is ever clear cut. Her death could mean a number of possibilities. None of that concerned Cara. It was that Nicci would eventually capture Kahlan. That was what scared Cara the most.
So consumed with her thoughts, Cara hadn’t noticed Berdine’s unusual silence until after they returned to the club.
“Do you believe her?” Cara asked as she and Berdine entered the now-empty lounge, heading towards the office in back.
“You know I do.” Berdine looked at her sidelong.
Cara had to nod at that. Berdine had spent her entire vampiric life with the seer, the one who sired her. If anyone knew and understood Shota best, it was her and Raina.
“What do you think about all this?” Cara had to ask.
“I think…” Berdine‘s lips curved up slyly. “That you’re willing to sacrifice an awful lot for someone you ‘don’t love’.”
“Screw you,” Cara muttered, though the slight curve of her own lips took the sting out of her words.
“Anytime. You know that,” the other vampire offered softly. Cara only rolled her eyes.
They reached the office door and Berdine stopped Cara when she reached for the handle. “I mean it. If you’re going to go and do something stupid- I know you,” she added quickly when Cara opened her mouth to argue. “You better be sure she’s worth it.” Berdine eyes were downcast for a moment before she went on. “Besides Raina, you’re the closest thing I’ve ever had to a friend.”
“Oh, c’mon. Don’t get all sappy on me,” Cara huffed. “You know how nauseous that makes me.”
“It’s a risk I’m willing to take, okay.” Berdine replied, amused. “If you’re going to go and get yourself killed, at least let there be a reason for it. Believe me, love is a very good reason,” she finished wistfully, obviously thinking about Raina.
Cara didn’t reply right away, Berdine didn’t expect her to. After a short while of staring at the floor, Cara looked back at her.
“Are you done? Or are you trying to make me to puke up my shoelaces?” She asked deadpan. Berdine smiled.
“I’m done.”
“Good.”
~*~*~
Kahlan was fast asleep on the couch, lying on her side and Cara stood there a few moments to just watch her. As she memorized every detail of Kahlan’s beautiful face, Berdine’s words echoed repeatedly in her head. Particularly one word. “Love.” Cara had always believed that the very notion of such a thing was against her nature. The one time she had thought she could feel it had ended horribly and left Cara with a feeling of weakness so profound she vowed to never let it happen again. And for centuries, she had been successful.
Until now, she finally allowed herself to admit.
Even though she knew with her entire being that Kahlan would never hurt her like the one before, this time it seemed Cara would end up paying for it with her life. And as her eyes traced the small scar above and on the side of Kahlan’s lip, she found she did not care. Her end will be worth it. For the way Kahlan made her feel again, after so long of nothing. And even more, if it was by Kahlan’s hand that she meet the True Death, Cara could not think of a more perfect way to go.
She kneeled quietly beside the sleeping woman, running a hand gently through Kahlan’s long, soft hair. Kahlan stirred and Cara decided not to fight the smile that bloomed across her face.
“Hey,” the vampire whispered, her hand settled to cup the back of Kahlan’s head, her thumb massaging there.
“Mmhey,” Kahlan muttered drowsily, stretching a little. Taking in her surroundings, she added sheepishly, “I guess I fell asleep.”
Cara felt her smile spread to a full-blown grin. “I guess so. It is late.”
Kahlan returned the smile and reached out a hand to gently cup the vampire’s cheek. “How much time before sunrise?” Cara leaned into her touch.
“Only a few more hours.”
“Oh. How did it go with Shota?”
Cara’s smile faltered. “Frustratingly pointless.” It wasn’t an outright lie.
Kahlan frowned, lifting her head up to rest it on her hand. “So… what now?”
Cara didn’t reply. She licked her lips then leaned in to brush them insistently against Kahlan’s. Cara didn’t want to think anymore. She just wanted to feel. To feel Kahlan.
“Mmm…” Kahlan moaned, caught off guard. When Cara’s tongue peeked out to run along her bottom lip, her hand snaked around to hold the back of Cara’s head, holding the blonde closer and opened her mouth to allow Cara entrance.
Cara kissed her deeply. There was an urgency in it that Kahlan could not decipher. With lips and tongue still taking her own, she felt Cara remove her jacket and then Kahlan was being pushed to lie on her back.
“Cara?” Kahlan managed between kisses when the vampire moved to lay on top of her, between her legs. She really wasn’t sure this was the best place for this. Cara didn’t seem to hear her, or maybe she didn’t understand. So Kahlan tried again, this time pushing at the blonde’s shoulders. “Cara?”
“It’s okay,” Cara reassured, moving her lips to Kahlan’s neck. “No one will come in,” she explained, placing soft open-mouthed kisses on Kahlan’s throat before murmuring breathily against Kahlan’s warm skin, “I need you.”
There was a desperation in Cara’s words that made Kahlan want to question it. But the feel of Cara’s mouth on her and then the hand that slipped beneath her blouse cupping and kneading her breast ripped all thought from Kahlan’s mind. She fisted Cara’s hair, tugging to bring the blonde’s lips back to her own, needing to kiss her.
Cara pushed her hips down against Kahlan. Never had she wanted something so desperately than to be inside Kahlan at this moment. Her hands came together between their bodies, unbuttoning and then lowering the zipper of Kahlan’s jeans. Cara wanted to take her time, to draw this out as long as possible but need won out. The knowledge of what she would have to do to spare Kahlan from the fate that Shota had told her forced Cara to rush. She slid her hand between the material of the Kahlan’s jeans and the smooth skin there. After only a few stokes of the hard little nub, Cara slipped two fingers deep inside Kahlan’s wet and warm passage.
“Cara,” Kahlan breathed out against Cara‘s lips, her hips finding and matching Cara’s deep and slow rhythm. Faintly, Kahlan was surprised. Being with Cara had always been fast and hard. Like Cara was taking and possessing her. Now, it seemed as if Cara was giving to Kahlan. That there was an underlying message in Cara’s movements, with every push of the vampire’s fingers inside her. Whatever it was, Kahlan tried to answer back; with every moan, every whimper and the almost desperate way she clung to Cara’s shoulders.
There were words on Cara’s lips as she quickened her pace inside Kahlan. Words that choked her with their need to spill out. She fought them. Wanting to save them. Those three simple words that would change everything. Save them for when she wasn’t feeling so desperate, for when she knew Kahlan would except them as more than some byproduct of sex. Still, they were there. And as Cara pushed Kahlan closer and closer to the edge, as Cara watched her tip over, the words almost fell with her.
Moments later, as Cara held on to the woman she loved, a sort of peace came over her. Cara listened as Kahlan’s breathing even out after declining Kahlan’s attempts at reciprocating, telling her she would be okay and that Kahlan should sleep. Cara didn’t have long. The sun would be rising in less than thirty minutes and Cara needed to get downstairs to the awaiting transportation coffin and ride Berdine had arranged for her.
Quietly and as gently as she could, Cara rose from the couch she had been sharing with the sleeping woman she would do anything for. Retrieving her jacket, she crouched down to place a lingering kiss on Kahlan’s lips, brushing an errant lock of hair from her face. With one last look, she silently left the office.
As Cara made her way down the stairs, she pulled out her cell phone, dialing Nicci’s number. She didn’t have to wait long for the line to pick up.
“Where do you want us to meet you?”
Click this for the next part.
* American Vampire League
Part: Eight
Pariing: Kahlan/Cara
Rating: Um, let's go with a hard R.
Count: 6145
Disclaimer: Blah blah blah nothing belongs to me blah blah blah. [/Pam's voice]
Summary: Cara's a vamp. Kahlan's a... *shifty eyes* human. They meet. Stuff happens. I hate writing out summaries.
A/N: I'd like to give a big, wet, sloppy thanks to huffstodt for the general pain in my ass help she's been. Thank you, my dearest Homeslice. Fer realz. She knows so much more about TB than I could ever.
A/N 2: I'm not entirely happy with the last bit. But frankly, I just wanted to get this posted. JSYK.
~*~*~
The stairwell leading up to the second floor of the nightclub was quiet and Kahlan breathed out a sigh of relief. She could still hear the muted thump-thump of the deafening electronic music coming from the club itself and her ears were still ringing but at least she was now away from the chaos. And it was chaos, there was no other word for it.
As they had made their way through the sea of leather and vinyl and spikes and chains, Kahlan had practically glued herself to Cara’s back. Afraid that if she lost contact with the vampire, she would’ve been lost for days in the sea of people who were dancing and grinding against each other.
Meanwhile, Cara had walked through it all like she owned the place.
Now, after reaching and then entering the door that led to the upstairs, Kahlan let some of the tension uncoil within her.
Cara paused to look at her. “Are you okay?” She asked, a tinge of amusement coloring her voice.
“I could use a bath right about now but, at least I survived.”
Cara smiled sympathetically, holding out her hand to Kahlan. “Come on.” She gestured up the darken stairs with a tilt of her head. Kahlan accepted the hand and the two of them ascended the stairs.
“Remember what I said,” Cara spoke. “You are mine. So long as everyone knows that, you’ll be alright. It’s against the rules to take or feed on another vampire’s human.”
“Right,” Kahlan nodded. “I’m your pet,” she said, teasingly.
“You don’t have to go that far.” Cara grinned. “Though I’m certainly willing to entertain the idea,” she added, with an enticing lift of an eyebrow.
Kahlan stroked Cara’s arm with her free hand. Her voice momentarily taking on a breathy tone. “Perhaps when this is all over, I might let you.”
“Hmm, I’ll hold you to that.” Cara whispered, leaning over to place a chaste but promise-filled kiss on Kahlan’s lips.
They stopped just before the top door and Cara’s face turned serious. “There will be a lot of vampires feeding. The humans are willing, but it still may seem…”
“Depraved?”
“Something like that.” Cara knitted her brow.
Kahlan smiled endearingly at her. “I’ll be fine,” she reassured. Cara nodded.
“Just stay close to me.”
Cara schooled her face to one of indifference and opened the door. Kahlan felt her eyes widened for a moment at the sight of the club lounge. The room was large and dimly lit. Plush couches lined every wall except for the one facing the rest of the club, where it was nothing but a giant window, overseeing the mass of people on the floor below. As Cara had warned, much of the space was filled with vampires feeding off of humans but that wasn’t what caught Kahlan off guard. It was how most of those humans were decidedly unclothed. Most were women but a few men were scattered around as well. Kahlan couldn’t remember seeing so much naked flesh in one place. She felt her face heat and was sure it was beet red. It appeared everyone was enjoying themselves. A lot.
Kahlan just kept her eyes trained on Cara’s back, as the blonde led them to the farthest wall on the opposite side of the room. Half way there, a particularly loud moan came from Kahlan’s right which caused her to look over. There was a woman sprawled naked on a couch, a head moving impossibly fast between her legs. The woman looked back at Kahlan, licking her lips. Kahlan could not avert her eyes away quick enough.
She was so set on not looking around that she nearly bumped into Cara when the vampire suddenly stopped. Looking beyond the blonde‘s shoulder, Kahlan saw yet another naked woman writhing on the largest couch in the room. Two vampires were on either side of her, feeding. One, with long chestnut hair pulled back in a braid, was feeding from the woman’s wrist. The other, whose raven hair was in an identical braid, feeding on the woman’s inner thigh.
Cara crossed her arms below her breasts, canting her hip to the side. “I see you two haven’t changed a bit,” she said dryly.
The lighter-haired vampire pulled her mouth away from the wrist she had been sucking from, mouth stained a dark red. Her blue eyes twinkled at Cara. “Cara.” She smiled. “You’re looking as surly as ever.” She leaned back against the couch, letting the woman’s hand fall without a thought.
“Which…” The dark haired vampire lifted her head up from the woman’s thigh. “Means Cara here hasn’t changed at all herself,” she drawled, gazing at her companion. Cara smirked.
“Berdine. Raina,” she greeted with a slight nod.
The naked woman they had been feeding from moaned, disgruntled that the vampires stopped.
“Yeah, you’re done.” Berdine pushed at the woman, dismissively.
“Go find someone else to play with,” Raina finished. The woman shuffled off the couch and staggered away with a displeased expression that no one seemed to care enough to notice. Once she was out of the way, Raina slid over and rested her head against Berdine’s shoulder, Berdine wrapping an arm around her waist.
“So, must be pretty bad. I’ve never known Cara Mason to ask for anyone’s help before,” Berdine grinned, speaking casually.
“Let me guess,” Raina said, mock-thoughtfully, “It has something to do with that psychotic bitch of a Maker you have?”
“We will not discuss this here.” Cara’s voice turned low and dangerous.
Raina nodded. “Thought so.”
All the while, Kahlan lingered behind Cara, silent and unmoving. Trying not to draw attention to herself. She trusted Cara to know what she was doing. But these vampires were really making her nervous. Unfortunately, they were bound to notice her at some point.
“Cara, is this your human?” Berdine leered at Kahlan, who used all her willpower not to shrink back.
“Or is she a gift?” Raina asked, eyes wondering over Kahlan. “You know, for our services?” She cast a hopeful look at Cara.
“She’s mine,” Cara growled warningly at the two.
Berdine and Raina shot amused glances at each other.
“I take it back,” Raina said, smiling, “You have changed. You used to be more fun.”
Cara took an impatient step towards them. “Office. Now.”
“Fine,” Berdine huffed.
~*~*~
“I have no idea what kind of shit you’ve gotten yourself into, but if it involves Nicci then I think I know why you’re here. And believe me when I say,” Berdine perched herself on the edge of the large desk. “She will not be pleased.”
“I kinda figured,” Cara responded sarcastically. She and Kahlan had settled themselves on the office couch with Kahlan practically molding herself to Cara’s right side. Even though the blonde had told her it was okay now, that the illusion of ‘human pet’ was no longer needed in Berdine and Raina’s presence.
“We can’t even be sure she will see you,” Raina said from where she leaned against the wall. “You know how she feels about you.”
“The only problem she’s ever had with me was because I was Nicci’s.” Cara explained logically. “I need to see her as quickly as possible.”
Berdine pulled her braid from behind her, idly playing with it as she studied Cara. After a long moment, she finally spoke. “What’s going on, Cara? When you called, you sounded so panicked. I have known you a long time and never. Never. Have I ever known you to panic.”
Cara sighed, setting her hand on Kahlan’s beside her. A move that did not go unnoticed by Berdine and Raina, who raised simultaneously eyebrows.
“It’s nothing to get you two involved in. In fact, it’s better if you don’t.”
“Ha!” Berdine scoffed. “Oh, now I really need to know.” She smiled amusedly, looking over at Raina. “You hear that? Cara’s concerned about us.”
“It is intriguing.” Raina replied, bemused.
Cara just glared daggers at them.
Throughout the conversation, Kahlan felt herself start to relax. She was quickly realizing that her first impression of these two wasn‘t entirely accurate. She had seen them as deadly seductresses who wouldn’t hesitate to drain her dry at the first chance. Those thoughts were probably true but as Kahlan sat there, watching Cara and them interact, it was like watching old friends good-naturedly poking fun at each other.
“C’mon, Cara. You might as well tell us. We’ll find out eventually anyways,” Berdine prodded.
Cara looked to Kahlan. Berdine was right. Most likely, they would end up involved and it was only fair that they know just exactly what it was they would be getting themselves into. With another sigh, Cara tried to explain.
“Kahlan here, is a-”
“Cara?” Kahlan wasn’t sure if it was wise to divulge what she was. Not to another vampire. Cara squeezed Kahlan’s hand.
“It’s okay. I trust them,” she reassured quietly to the brunette. “Despite how annoying they are,” she added, glaring back at the two, exasperatedly. Berdine and Raina merely grinned. Cara rolled her eyes before looking back at Kahlan, silently asking her to understand. After a second or two, Kahlan nodded, squeezing Cara’s hand back. Cara went on.
“Kahlan’s a Confessor.”
Berdine’s eyes went wide. “Really?” Then a thought occurred to her and she laughed. “No wonder you’re in hiding from Nicci,” she said with smirk at Kahlan.
“I should’ve known you would know about this,” Cara muttered, shaking her head. At Kahlan’s look, she elaborated. “Berdine is somewhat of a scholar-type.” Kahlan mouth formed a silent ‘oh’.
“I don’t know a lot but I know enough. I do not envy you right now.” Berdine chuckled at Cara, who huffed.
“You are so fucking helpful, Berdine,” Cara all but growled. Berdine continued to laugh.
“What’s a Confessor?” Raina asked. Berdine turned to her.
“The Confessors were an order of women, from two-”
“Explain to her later!” Cara yelled, frustrated. “I need to see Shota now.”
“Relax, I’ll take you.” Berdine sighed.
“We need to go now. Nicci has Kahlan’s friend,” Cara explained. “She’s the only bargaining chip Nicci has so she’ll be safe for a while, but you know how Nicci is.” Cara felt Kahlan’s grip on her hand tighten.
Berdine stood up. Casting another glance at Raina, she could see her lover was just as confused as she was. They had never seen Cara show such distress over a human. “Well, let’s go then.” Both Cara and Kahlan stood. Berdine raised a hand. “Wait, no. Sorry, but you can’t come.” She pointed to Kahlan.
“Why not?” Kahlan looked back and forth between Cara and Berdine.
“Shota is… eccentric” Berdine explained. Cara snorted. “It’s bad enough I’m bringing Cara but if I were to bring a human…? Yeah, that’s not happening,” she concluded with absolute finality. Kahlan was about to argue but Cara cut in.
“She’s right. You’re going to have to wait. We won’t be gone too long,” she said apologetically.
“Wait? Wait here?” Kahlan did not like that idea at all.
Cara set her hand on Kahlan’s hip, trying to reassure her. “Raina will keep you company, and keep you safe.” Kahlan looked nervously over at the raven haired woman, who grinned a little too lasciviously at her.
“Um… Cara. I‘m not so sure-”
“It’ll be fine. Raina.” Cara glared warningly at the other vampire. “Will be on her best behavior. Won’t you?”
“I promise. Cross my heart.” Raina made a crossing motion over her chest, still directing an unnerving smile at Kahlan.
Kahlan swallowed before looking back to Cara. “Okay. If you trust her,” she whispered.
“I do.” Cara placed a kiss on Kahlan’s lips. “I’ll be back soon,” she vowed softly. Kahlan nodded.
Cara turned back towards Berdine, who seemed quite entertained by their little moment. Cara scowled at her. “Not a word.”
Berdine threw her hands up. “Wasn’t gonna say a thing.” She led Cara out the office door, sighing. “Shota is going to kill me for this, I hope you know.” Cara simply shrugged.
“You’ll get over it.”
Kahlan nervously sat back down, eyes steadfastly avoiding the only vampire left in the room.
Raina sauntered over to the desk, taking the same position Berdine had been moments before. She tilted her head at Kahlan, giving her the once-over. A devious grin formed on her face.
“Do you want to play a game?”
Kahlan shrank further into the couch.
~*~*~
Berdine carefully maneuvered her car on the dirt road and through the dense forest just outside of town. During the ride, the two of them had remained silent. Every so often, Berdine’s light blue eyes would shift sideways to glance at the blonde in the passenger seat. Finally, Cara let out a frustrated sigh.
“Whatever it is, just say it.” She could feel Berdine’s gaze and knew it was only a matter of time before light-brown haired woman would start in on her.
“You’re in love,” Berdine stated softly. Cara’s wide eyes shot towards her.
“What?”
Berdine continued to watch the small road ahead of them. “I never thought I’d live to see the day,” she mused. “And that’s saying something. Considering our immortality.”
“Perhaps that braid of yours is a little too tight and it’s affecting your brain. I am not in love,” Cara grumbled.
Berdine went on as if Cara had never spoken. “And with a human. My,” she shook her head. “What has the world come to?”
“Your world is going to come to an excruciating end if you do not shut the fuck up,” Cara warned. Berdine just chuckled quietly, unfazed.
“Cara. You know, it’s not so bad. Despite what you may think, or what anyone may think, you are capable of loving someone and…” Berdine regarded the blonde for a moment. “I think it’s way past due. Especially after-”
“Don’t you dare say her name.” Cara growled. “This is nothing like her.”
“After only five minutes with you and Kahlan, that is more than evident.” Berdine focused back on the road. After a long moment, she spoke softly. “Whether you accept it or not, it looks good on you.” Cara frowned, confused.
“What does?”
“Love.” Berdine smiled gently at her.
Cara just looked out the side window, deep in thought. Berdine let her brood for a while. She knew Cara, probably better than anyone. She knew the blonde didn’t believe her, or rather, didn’t want to believe her. But in time, Berdine knew it would eventually sink in. For now, she would just change the subject.
“So. Why am I taking you to Shota? You said that Nicci is holding a human hostage? Why not just go the Authority? Or even,” Berdine snickered. “the AVL*? I‘m sure they would be willing to do anything to keep our ‘wholesome‘ image intact. A kidnapped human isn‘t exactly the best publicity.”
“Oh, please,” Cara scoffed. “The only time those bureaucratic jerk-offs give a damn is after the fact. And then it’s all about cleaning up the mess. And besides… you know I like to take care of things myself.”
“Yeah, I know.” Berdine grinned. “But still. Shota? I don’t know what you could possibly think she’d be willing to do for you. Especially over a human.”
Cara sat quietly for a few seconds. “There’s more to it than that,” she muttered.
“I gathered.” Berdine looked over. “This is more about Kahlan than her friend,” she stated knowingly. Cara continued to stare out the window, watching but not really seeing the forest pass by.
“How much do you know about Confessors?”
“I know enough to know that if this was a couple millenniums ago, this would all be a great cause for concern. But now…?” Berdine shook her head dismissively. “I don’t get it.”
“That makes two of us.” Cara exhaled. “But you know Nicci.” Berdine nodded.
“I do.”
Around them, the forest grew thicker and the dirt road they traveled tapered. Ahead of them, Cara could see a large house slowly emerge. It was like a giant log cabin built into the base of a mountain; more then comfortable in its size but far from extravagant. Berdine slowed the car to a stop.
“Here we are.”
They both exited the car and before Cara started towards the front door, Berdine darted to the trunk. She opened it, pulling out a duffle bag. After closing the trunk, she gestured to the house. “Shall we?” she said, passing Cara.
The door wasn’t locked and Berdine didn’t bother to knock. As they entered, Cara noticed how the interior was almost bare. A few animal skins draped the walls and what little furniture there was, was simple. Berdine led her to a second door which took them down into the basement. Once there, Cara could tell that this was where Shota actually lived. It seemed as if the basement was dug out of the mountain rock itself. The walls were lined with shelves of books and other oddities. A simple round wooden table was placed in the center of the space, a bowl set on top of it. And standing there, with her back to them was Shota, slightly hunched over from peering into the bowl.
“Cara,” the auburn-haired woman greeted, not bothering to turn towards them. “I was expecting you sooner.”
Cara raised an eyebrow, looking over at Berdine, who just shrugged back. “Were you?”
“Yes.” Shota faced them, clasping her hands in front of her. “Berdine.” She nodded towards the vampire, who lifted the duffle bag.
“I know it’s a little early but I brought you some more-”
“Yes, yes. You may put it away.” Shota waved a hand in the direction of a small refrigerator in the corner behind her.
While Berdine hurried off to do as she was told, Shota stepped closer to Cara.
“Does it surprise you that I have been awaiting your arrival?”
Cara crossed her arms. “Not really. What does surprise me is that you aren’t currently trying to rip off my head.” Shota actually laughed.
“Oh, Cara. After what I’ve seen, your permanent death is the last thing passing through my mind.”
Cara scrunched her eyebrows together. “So you know…?”
“I know. Or at least…” Shota paused, considering her words. “I know all that I need to know.”
“And what does that mean?” Cara asked, exasperatedly. “And please. Can you for once explain without the riddles?”
Shota smiled, turning away and heading further into the basement. “Come,” she beckoned.
Cara’s eyes rolled up in frustration. This is what you get with a vampire who also just so happens to be a seer.
~*~*~
“Ha! Park Place! Pay up.”
Raina scowled. “You’re lucky you’re Cara’s human. Otherwise I’d have you on the rack right about now,” she muttered, handing Kahlan the colorful game money.
“You’re just mad I’m kicking your ass,” Kahlan teased, reaching for the dice.
“No one likes a gloater.”
Kahlan rolled the dice and moved her little dog piece on the board. Grabbing a card from the stack and reading it, her arms shot up in victory.
“Yes! Advance to Go.” Raina growled at her, and that would’ve initially made Kahlan recoil in fear but after almost an hour of playing this game with the vampire, Kahlan could only find it amusing.
Kahlan hated to admit it but she was enjoying herself. Though guilt and worry and fear still weighed heavily on her about Denna, Cara had managed to put her at a slight ease. Explaining to her that as long as Denna remained alive, Nicci believed she had the upper hand. Still, all throughout the past day, Kahlan had been distraught. But sitting here, with Raina, playing a simple board game had allowed Kahlan to relax.
“Raina?” Kahlan asked softly, focusing on the board in front of her. “How long have you known Cara?”
Raina smiled knowingly at Kahlan. “Almost my entire life as a vampire.” She picked up the dice, rolling them in her hand. “I assume you have questions? Questions Cara is too stubborn to answer?”
“Actually, I haven’t really asked. Guess I’ve always been too nervous about it. Cara can be really…” she trailed off. Raina nodded.
“Secretive. I know. She’s always been like that.” The vampire threw the dice, moving her car along the board. “I can’t tell you anything about her before she was turned. Cara has always refused to talk about that.” Kahlan looked up at her.
“And after?”
Raina shrugged her shoulders, speaking simply. “About what you would expect of a vampire.” She thought for a moment. “Though maybe a little more disciplined, I guess. Having Nicci for a Maker leaves one with little choice in that. That bitch has always been like a tyrant. And Cara was her favorite. Which by the way, is not a particularly desirable position to have.
“Oh.” Kahlan worried her bottom lip. “Were they… Lovers?” She asked hesitantly.
“In the beginning. I think most vampires are at some point when they turn someone. Well, actually, in Cara and Nicci’s case I don’t think the term ‘lover’ is accurate,” she rephrased. “Love had little if nothing to do with what they did.” Her grin the very picture of lewd.
“Oh,” Kahlan repeated, blushing a little. Though it was irrational, she felt a slight pang of jealousy. Raina smirked.
“Perhaps, it would be best to ask Cara these questions. God knows, if she were to find out about me talking to you about her past, I’d be the one on the rack.” Raina chuckled. Kahlan nodded absently.
“Yeah, your right.” She decided to change the subject. “So, you and Berdine?” The vampire smiled.
“Are lovers, yes.”
“How long have you two been together?”
“Since before Shota turned us. Two hundred and fifty-three years ago.” Raina answered, wistfully.
“That’s… a long time,” Kahlan breathed out, amazed. “Even as humans, you were together?” Raina nodded.
“Yep. I remember the night Shota offered to turn us. Berdine and I were just a couple of farm girls, hiding in the woods as it was the only place where we could be together without anyone’s prying eyes on us. I hated it. Having to hide our love out of fear of the simpleton townsfolk beating or stoning us to death.” Raina glowered. “So when Shota offered us a way to be together, forever, without fear or shame…” she shrugged, “We jumped at the chance. Even though at the time we had no idea what she was really offering us.” Raina laughed to herself. “I would not trade it for the world.”
Kahlan realized she was smiling softly at the vampire. “It sounds… It actually sounds kinda romantic,” she offered a little sheepishly. “In a twisted sorta way.” They grinned at each other. Kahlan cleared her throat. “So Shota… She can help me and Cara?”
“Honestly? I don’t really know what Cara expects from her. Yes, she’s older and stronger than Nicci but I just don’t see Shota lifting a single finger to help. Unless…”
“Unless what?”
Raina sighed. “Before Shota was turned, she was a seer.” Kahlan furrowed her brows.
“Like… she can see the future?”
“In a way,” Raina tried to explain. “It’s all vague and never direct. I never really understood it all. Berdine and I just supply her with blood and whatever else she needs. She’s the very definition of recluse.”
“So, you think that’s why Cara went to see her?” Kahlan asked incredulously. It sounded ridiculous to her.
“Maybe one of the reasons. That’s another thing you’ll have to ask Cara.”
~*~*~
Cara crossed her arms and leaned against a book shelf.
“So, are going to help me or not?”
Shota continued to stare into her bowl of water. “You have no need of my help,” she answered dismissively.
“Did you not hear a word I just said?” She angrily stepped closer to Shota.
“I did.”
“Well then what the hell am I supposed to do?”
“Cara.” Shota calmly turned towards the irate vampire. “I do not need to help you. I have seen some of what will come to pass. I know what you must do. I can tell you that and nothing more.”
“What must I do?” Cara asked impatiently.
“Give Kahlan Amnell to Nicci.”
Cara stared at her.
And stared.
Until finally. “Fuck you.”
“Cara-” Berdine nervously began.
“No!” Cara looked at the taller vampire before turning her ire back on Shota. “Fuck you! You are out of your mind. I came here to ask for your help and you tell me to give Kahlan over to the one person I‘m trying to protect her from?” She threw her hands up angrily. “I knew you had a few screws loose, but this? This is abso-fucking-lutely insane!” Shota remained unbothered.
“It is what must be done.”
“How can you say that? You don’t care what happens to Kahlan, I get that. But you’re telling me to give what could be a powerful weapon over to the one person you hate the most? Knowing it could, I dunno, doom the world?” Shota did not reply. After a long moment of silence, Cara laughed mirthlessly, shaking her head. “I knew this was a waste of time,” she muttered to herself. “How? How is doing that going to help?”
“In order to save many, a sacrifice must be made,” Shota intoned calmly.
Cara’s eyes fluttered and rolled back in annoyance. “What. Does that. Even. Mean?” She grounded out through clenched teeth. Shota sighed as if Cara were a petulant child.
“Cara. I do not have all the answers you seek.”
“Then why are you telling me to sacrifice Kahlan if you don’t know what will happen?”
Shota smiled at her. “I did not say it would be your human who will be sacrificed,” she answered, sounding pleased with herself.
Cara could feel her rage boiling over the surface. This is what she gets for coming to the seer. But her anger was pointless. Much like this conversation. So she forced herself to calm somewhat, knowing she had no one to blame but herself for coming here in the first place. “Why can’t you just say what you mean? Why must you always be so damned ambiguous?” She asked. In the corner of her eye, she saw Berdine trying to not laugh. Cara made a mental note to smack her later. For now, she stayed focused on Shota. “So who will be sacrificed? Me?”
Shota’s eyes penetrated Cara’s. “Yes.”
Cara pursed her lips. “I’m going to die? How is that going to stop anything?”
Shota turned back to her bowl. Cara couldn’t tell if she was looking for something or just bored with this conversation. “Your… sacrifice… will be necessary to set in motion that which will end Nicci.”
“And save Kahlan?” Cara couldn’t keep the eagerness out of her voice. Concern for her own death passed through her like water. It didn’t matter. She would throw herself into the sun if it meant Kahlan was safe.
“It will,” Shota offered absently. Cara nodded, resolute.
“Fine. If that’s what it takes. But I am not giving Kahlan to Nicci.”
“I did not think you would, though it does not matter. Nicci will have her anyway,” Shota replied, airily.
Cara didn’t respond. There was no point. Instead, she turned to Berdine. “Let’s go.” She was done with this conversation. Done with Shota.
As Cara and Berdine headed towards the stairs, Shota turned back to them. “Oh, Cara?” The blonde sighed, pausing.
“What?”
“Don’t you want to know how you will be… sacrificed?”
“How?” Cara asked with an exasperated roll of her eyes. She didn’t really care, she just wanted to get out of there. Shota smiled.
“It will be by Kahlan Amnell.”
~*~*~
The whole ride back to the club had been deathly silent. Cara was deep in thought, as was expected. She didn’t want to think about what Shota had said. She wanted to believe that it was all a game the vampire seer was playing with her. It certainly wouldn’t be the first time. However, a part of Cara couldn’t help but consider the likely truth in Shota’s words. It wasn’t her potential death that bothered her, nor the possibility that Kahlan would be the one to do it. One thing Cara had learned in her previous dealings with Shota was that nothing she “sees” is ever clear cut. Her death could mean a number of possibilities. None of that concerned Cara. It was that Nicci would eventually capture Kahlan. That was what scared Cara the most.
So consumed with her thoughts, Cara hadn’t noticed Berdine’s unusual silence until after they returned to the club.
“Do you believe her?” Cara asked as she and Berdine entered the now-empty lounge, heading towards the office in back.
“You know I do.” Berdine looked at her sidelong.
Cara had to nod at that. Berdine had spent her entire vampiric life with the seer, the one who sired her. If anyone knew and understood Shota best, it was her and Raina.
“What do you think about all this?” Cara had to ask.
“I think…” Berdine‘s lips curved up slyly. “That you’re willing to sacrifice an awful lot for someone you ‘don’t love’.”
“Screw you,” Cara muttered, though the slight curve of her own lips took the sting out of her words.
“Anytime. You know that,” the other vampire offered softly. Cara only rolled her eyes.
They reached the office door and Berdine stopped Cara when she reached for the handle. “I mean it. If you’re going to go and do something stupid- I know you,” she added quickly when Cara opened her mouth to argue. “You better be sure she’s worth it.” Berdine eyes were downcast for a moment before she went on. “Besides Raina, you’re the closest thing I’ve ever had to a friend.”
“Oh, c’mon. Don’t get all sappy on me,” Cara huffed. “You know how nauseous that makes me.”
“It’s a risk I’m willing to take, okay.” Berdine replied, amused. “If you’re going to go and get yourself killed, at least let there be a reason for it. Believe me, love is a very good reason,” she finished wistfully, obviously thinking about Raina.
Cara didn’t reply right away, Berdine didn’t expect her to. After a short while of staring at the floor, Cara looked back at her.
“Are you done? Or are you trying to make me to puke up my shoelaces?” She asked deadpan. Berdine smiled.
“I’m done.”
“Good.”
~*~*~
Kahlan was fast asleep on the couch, lying on her side and Cara stood there a few moments to just watch her. As she memorized every detail of Kahlan’s beautiful face, Berdine’s words echoed repeatedly in her head. Particularly one word. “Love.” Cara had always believed that the very notion of such a thing was against her nature. The one time she had thought she could feel it had ended horribly and left Cara with a feeling of weakness so profound she vowed to never let it happen again. And for centuries, she had been successful.
Until now, she finally allowed herself to admit.
Even though she knew with her entire being that Kahlan would never hurt her like the one before, this time it seemed Cara would end up paying for it with her life. And as her eyes traced the small scar above and on the side of Kahlan’s lip, she found she did not care. Her end will be worth it. For the way Kahlan made her feel again, after so long of nothing. And even more, if it was by Kahlan’s hand that she meet the True Death, Cara could not think of a more perfect way to go.
She kneeled quietly beside the sleeping woman, running a hand gently through Kahlan’s long, soft hair. Kahlan stirred and Cara decided not to fight the smile that bloomed across her face.
“Hey,” the vampire whispered, her hand settled to cup the back of Kahlan’s head, her thumb massaging there.
“Mmhey,” Kahlan muttered drowsily, stretching a little. Taking in her surroundings, she added sheepishly, “I guess I fell asleep.”
Cara felt her smile spread to a full-blown grin. “I guess so. It is late.”
Kahlan returned the smile and reached out a hand to gently cup the vampire’s cheek. “How much time before sunrise?” Cara leaned into her touch.
“Only a few more hours.”
“Oh. How did it go with Shota?”
Cara’s smile faltered. “Frustratingly pointless.” It wasn’t an outright lie.
Kahlan frowned, lifting her head up to rest it on her hand. “So… what now?”
Cara didn’t reply. She licked her lips then leaned in to brush them insistently against Kahlan’s. Cara didn’t want to think anymore. She just wanted to feel. To feel Kahlan.
“Mmm…” Kahlan moaned, caught off guard. When Cara’s tongue peeked out to run along her bottom lip, her hand snaked around to hold the back of Cara’s head, holding the blonde closer and opened her mouth to allow Cara entrance.
Cara kissed her deeply. There was an urgency in it that Kahlan could not decipher. With lips and tongue still taking her own, she felt Cara remove her jacket and then Kahlan was being pushed to lie on her back.
“Cara?” Kahlan managed between kisses when the vampire moved to lay on top of her, between her legs. She really wasn’t sure this was the best place for this. Cara didn’t seem to hear her, or maybe she didn’t understand. So Kahlan tried again, this time pushing at the blonde’s shoulders. “Cara?”
“It’s okay,” Cara reassured, moving her lips to Kahlan’s neck. “No one will come in,” she explained, placing soft open-mouthed kisses on Kahlan’s throat before murmuring breathily against Kahlan’s warm skin, “I need you.”
There was a desperation in Cara’s words that made Kahlan want to question it. But the feel of Cara’s mouth on her and then the hand that slipped beneath her blouse cupping and kneading her breast ripped all thought from Kahlan’s mind. She fisted Cara’s hair, tugging to bring the blonde’s lips back to her own, needing to kiss her.
Cara pushed her hips down against Kahlan. Never had she wanted something so desperately than to be inside Kahlan at this moment. Her hands came together between their bodies, unbuttoning and then lowering the zipper of Kahlan’s jeans. Cara wanted to take her time, to draw this out as long as possible but need won out. The knowledge of what she would have to do to spare Kahlan from the fate that Shota had told her forced Cara to rush. She slid her hand between the material of the Kahlan’s jeans and the smooth skin there. After only a few stokes of the hard little nub, Cara slipped two fingers deep inside Kahlan’s wet and warm passage.
“Cara,” Kahlan breathed out against Cara‘s lips, her hips finding and matching Cara’s deep and slow rhythm. Faintly, Kahlan was surprised. Being with Cara had always been fast and hard. Like Cara was taking and possessing her. Now, it seemed as if Cara was giving to Kahlan. That there was an underlying message in Cara’s movements, with every push of the vampire’s fingers inside her. Whatever it was, Kahlan tried to answer back; with every moan, every whimper and the almost desperate way she clung to Cara’s shoulders.
There were words on Cara’s lips as she quickened her pace inside Kahlan. Words that choked her with their need to spill out. She fought them. Wanting to save them. Those three simple words that would change everything. Save them for when she wasn’t feeling so desperate, for when she knew Kahlan would except them as more than some byproduct of sex. Still, they were there. And as Cara pushed Kahlan closer and closer to the edge, as Cara watched her tip over, the words almost fell with her.
Moments later, as Cara held on to the woman she loved, a sort of peace came over her. Cara listened as Kahlan’s breathing even out after declining Kahlan’s attempts at reciprocating, telling her she would be okay and that Kahlan should sleep. Cara didn’t have long. The sun would be rising in less than thirty minutes and Cara needed to get downstairs to the awaiting transportation coffin and ride Berdine had arranged for her.
Quietly and as gently as she could, Cara rose from the couch she had been sharing with the sleeping woman she would do anything for. Retrieving her jacket, she crouched down to place a lingering kiss on Kahlan’s lips, brushing an errant lock of hair from her face. With one last look, she silently left the office.
As Cara made her way down the stairs, she pulled out her cell phone, dialing Nicci’s number. She didn’t have to wait long for the line to pick up.
“Where do you want us to meet you?”
Click this for the next part.
* American Vampire League