Exton

As plans are made for the children's protection Raina glances over at Alise. Her face is almost grey, the worry and fear for her children are palpable. Raina goes to her and places her hands on Alises knees as she kneels in front of her.

“Lítill einn …” Raina wipes at a tear, slowly trailing down Alises cheek. “I know you are brave, what is wrong? No one will get near the babies. They will have to cut me into a million pieces...”

Taking a deep breath, Alise tries to explain, “This is different. These are my children... my life... I would gladly die for them, and now there is Sarah too... but the thought of them being with that monster...”

Nodding, Raina starts to unwrap a length of leather cord that winds several times around her upper arm. Snake starts to wiggle and squirm, making Raina smile.

*“Halda áfram þá, ef þessi er hvaða þú vilja.”

The small green asp slips down Rainas arm and wraps itself around Alises upper arm. The snake rubs her head against Alise before settling in. Alises thoughts bring a hint of smile to her face as she remembers how snake did the very same thing on her wedding day. Stoney, hearing her thoughts kisses a cheek.

Raina takes the leather strap in one hand and reaches for her tanto with the other. Tomas looks worried when he sees the blade and sticks a finger in his mouth and glances up at his papan. Raina smiles... Gods, that is creepy, and they all can do it....

“Okay...you keep this with you. I have others and I am going to get my jian. I know you know how to use this... remember? If you feel any of the babies being threatened, use it.” Raina ties the tanto to Alises slim upper thigh with the leather cord. “I will call Panther and send her to your room with Star in a bit. Keep Star with you, we will know she is safe and she can help you with the babies. I am going to keep Dragon circling close by.” Raina pauses as if imagining her next statement in great detail, “Nothing would make me happier than to see Dragon feasting on that bitch.”

Her tears dry and a determined look settles on Alise's features, “Me too..”

“There's my girl...”

Before Raina can stand, Alise wraps an arm around Raina's neck. “I love you Raina. Be careful...”

“Me too. You guys are my family too. Just as much as Erik and Star.” She returns the hug fiercely, kisses Tara and Tomas and by the time she turns to face the group her hard as nails exterior is back in place. She is all business as they discuss what to do.

Stoneys mind caresses Alise, his thoughts seeking to comfort her. He lets her know that Mortuis is coming to help...

Alise nods and suddenly sits up straight and looks around. Her eyes seeking the shadows in the room, she whispers, “Remi, did you smell that?”

Stoney sniffs at the air. A soft scent of roses filled his nostrils and he smiles.

Chaton, it seems your maman graces us with her presence...


*Go on then if that is what you want