la matanza

Chase bobbed idly in the deep blue of the water, legs dangling lazily as he hovered at the pool’s edge. He was surprised that the brunette had chosen to join him, but then again, he’d never gone out of his way to talk so much before. While he had no issue with the other residents in Ashbourne, he had been very aware of the threat some posed to him and his kind. But now that half of his people had been wiped out anyway, it was time he learned more. Made allies. Friends, even. “Novia? That’s a lovely name,” Chase mused. “Well, I’ve been ducking in and out of Ashbourne for about ten years, I think. But I have a more permanent home now, on the outskirts of town. But what about you? How did you come to be the gymnasium lifeguard?”

The camera caught his eye. He wondered if she was a professional photographer or a casual one, but didn’t pose the question. “The best brews we can offer,” Desmond shot back with a practiced charm. “Top shelves are for alcohol, the lower ones are for… special requests.” He quirked a brow at her. “Depends on what you’re in the mood for.” He looked over her shoulder for a moment before motioning towards two strangers at the corner seated on comfortable armchairs. Their eyes were open, but glazed as they stared at the ceiling, into nothing; the smile on their faces was languid. They seemed to be in a world of their own, somewhere far away from there that only existed in their minds. “Special request,” Desmond said, tapping his fingertips on the counter. “So what is it you’re looking for?”

Chase sensed that his question had shifted the lifeguard’s mood, and his smile faltered slightly. He hadn’t considered any painful memories that Novia may have been harbouring, and instantly felt guilty that he had brought them up. His Nevma tingled faintly in his veins, and the desire to improve her mood encompassed his thoughts. But of course, he couldn’t connect with her as he did with his own kind, so the offer of a sympathetic smile would have to suffice, for now. “Well, we’re all very lucky to have you looking after us then.” 

Chase dove underneath the still-blue surface once more before quickly emerging. Still too soon. He would have to return to the ocean tonight, he knew. He could feel his bones weakening with every hour he remained on land. But he would ignore that for now, focusing instead on getting to know the woman that watched him so often. “I don’t think I’ve ever introduced myself. I’m Chase,” He called.

“That’s a sweet thought, thank you.” The smile was genuine even if the conversation stemmed from dark thoughts. Perhaps one day she’d be more willing to share her stories. The wolf was getting older, she should not hold them so closely and locked away for they had happened years ago but still it was difficult to share unless she was asked directly. Novia decided to remove herself from the tower and join the swimmer. 

“Not a fan of reflecting,“ he retorted with a scoff, Leon scooted over to give her room lest they both fell in the water. Novia was in her twilight years but has proven herself worthy to be in the pack, he only knew fragments about her and her closeness with Lenny was something he appreciated– his sister could use someone to be there for her. “I just wanted some time to relax before we head out later again you know?” And to prove his point he gave a tired grin. " And you?” 

“Next week, or whenever we’ve confirmed the end of this shit.” Helena sighed and she opened the door, feeling the bite of the October wind on her cheeks when she stepped outside. Her clothing was thin, worn simply as a formality. It, like her human skin, would soon be shed for something more primal. With teeth bared she’d roam the woods. Novia’s question made her turn her head, considering. “I’ll walk ahead, keep an eye out.”

How many of the Ulrcih’s ancestors had she been personally responsible for slaughtering? Their entire lineage was plagued with disease, she’d at one point expressed her desire to clean their family tree– to rid their species of such a prevalent source of destruction. “I hope so.” Helena had told Novia earlier of the children’s toys that sat in front yards, stained and soaked in blood that only she could see and smell– sets to taunt someone as sensitive as she. Their fingers interlocked and her heart swelled at the thought of such a strong partnership. The head and the heart. “I want to teach all those that are able how to change at command. The young wolves will learn to fight. I don’t want to be unprepared again.” Green eyes shifted towards the door, “Shall we?”

“I’m not on good terms with the Ulrich’s, but I think this makes for an exception.” Wolves were territorial creatures after all, and the very presence of the Hastings pack in Ashbourne infringed upon the freedoms of the other wolves. She respected their disdain for her, and as a result, didn’t make excuses to get in their way. Helena wondered if sending Leon would be more effective, he was always better with people. She nodded as Novia voiced her thoughts, before groaning. “We’re already having enough problems with a series of murders. Entire families are being wiped out, definitely vampires.” She reached over, rubbing at Novia’s shoulder. “You’re going to be doing a lot of drifting in the next few weeks.”