full_of_hope

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Below are the 20 most recent journal entries recorded in the "full_of_hope" journal:

December 6th, 2004
02:33 am [Link]	Dead Like Me "Hey Sweetheart, pour me another one, would ya?" The man pushed his empty glass across the bar to Claire. She studied him for a moment. He was obviously new to these parts, and had most certainly never been in the Lighthouse before. It was also getting late. There were no other customers at this hour and it would be closing time soon. Claire also had to get on patrol, not to mention the fact this particular patron had consumed enough alcohol for one evening. Instead, she turned on the charming smile and gently shook her head. "Sorry, but I think you've had enough for the night. And we are closing up. Last call, and all that." Claire grabbed the empty glass and put it into the bar wash to clean it. The man glared at her, not happy with her remarks, nor willing to give it up. "I have plenty of time for one more, and I'll decide when I've had enough. Now pour me another." He began to stand up out of the bar stool in a threatening manner. Then he leaned over to grab another glass and attempt to pour his own beer from the tap in a backwards motion. Claire glanced around the empty bar and then threw her rag down on the counter and hastily walked around to the other side. She grabbed the man from behind, bending his arm behind his back and dragging him backwards and out of the bar. "Beer was on me tonight, okay?" She barely had to use her slayer force, but it was enough to get her point across. The man tried to get out of her grasp but it was pointless. She shoved him out of the bar and quickly locked the front door behind him. "Thank you for visiting the Lighthouse!" Claire shouted through the door, frowning and dusting off her jeans. Mean drunks were the worst part of the job. Claire finished cleaning up the bar. The kitchen had closed earlier and the staff was already gone. Once she was finished she ran upstairs and changed into her patrolling clothes. Jo was already out, and Nyx was asleep. He knew she'd be patrolling afterwards, but she dropped a kiss on his forehead and scrawled out a quick note to lay by his pillow. "Keep my side of the bed warm. I'll be home from patrol very soon." She added a heart and signed her name. God, she loved him so much. She felt like a little giddy school girl in love at times, and that was quite okay. She had her various stakes hidden on her body. No crossbows or swords tonight. She'd just do a quick and light patrol. Hurrying downstairs, she exited the bar from the rear door into the parking lot. There was only one street light to illuminate the lot, and it was a cold desert night. Claire could see her breath as she exhaled. She squinted up at the night sky. The stars were bright and clear. She loved the Nevada sky, especially in the desert. There were no neon lights to obstruct from their sparkling presence as there was in Vegas. "Bitch!" The drunken voice blanketed the lot. Claire jerked and quirked her head to the left. There he stood, the mean drunk she had thrown out. Had he been out here this entire time, waiting for her? "You shouldn't be out here. It's late. It's not safe." She knew being lectured about safety out here by her, a young woman, probably sounded absurd to any man, let alone an angry drunk one. He pulled up the sleeves of his shirt to his elbows. "Not safe for you, you've got that right." He sneered and took a closer step toward her. "Sir, really, just back away and go back home. Get some sleep. I'm sure you'll feel better in the morning." Claire didn't have time for this. She put up her hands, palms out, trying to show him she wanted no trouble. He was too far gone to care, however. He took two long strides and soon his stinking breath was in her face. "I always get what I want." Claire felt his presence before he heard him. What others had named "spidey sense" began to crawl up along her spine. His voice then came out of the shadows. "I wouldn't mess with her if I was you." Tristan stepped out of the alley, now illuminated by the lone streetlight. His hair was slicked back, and his leather jacket was buttoned up. His hands were pushed far down into his pockets, and he wore an amusing smile on his face. The man snorted and turned to look at Tristan. "You again? Stay out of this. It doesn't concern you." The drunkard took another step towards Claire. Claire was caught up between the two men. She could easily defend herself against the man, but Tristan was another thing entirely. He was the vampire that Jo still had nightmares about. He was the vampire that had seemed to be stalking Jo, playing games with her. Claire remembered when he had come into the bar, and had known it wouldn't be the last time she'd see him. His timing really sucked. "She's a Slayer. You don't have a chance." Tristan took his hands out of his pockets and folded his arms over his chest. The man frowned, glancing between Claire and Tristan. "Slayer? What the fuck is a slayer?" Claire knew what was coming before it happened. Instantly she pivoted on her heel, stepping between the man and the vampire in a protecting stance. Tristan's face changed at the same time as he muttered, "She hunts things like me." ( Resolution ) "Who are you?" The drunken man had somehow managed to stand up again. He saw that Tristan's face was that again of a human. "What are you?" Tristan jumped down from the car and grabbed the man by the collar of his shirt, picking him up off of his feet. "Don't you know who I am, father?" The man shook his head, tears of fear stinging his eyes. "I don't know you!" Tristan glowered at him, backing him up so that his back pressed against the cool glass of the station wagon's window. "No, and you never did. But you will." He let his father down so his feet were back on the ground, but he didn't release the grip he had on his shirt. "You will." The man numbly followed Tristan back towards the cemetery. It was time for the father to know the son. Current Mood: cold (Leave a comment)
November 11th, 2004
05:35 pm [Link]	My Beloved Claire littered the bedroom with rose petals. Reds and whites and pinks and yellows. She couldn't decide on a color, so she went with a variety. Yellow roses were her personal favorites, but she didn't really think Nyx would care. The flower petals were the final touch. Earlier she had hung up small twinkling white christmas lights all over the room, on the walls, and the ceiling. She couldn't leave candlelight unattended, so this was the next best thing. Next to the bed, which was adorned in black silk sheets beneath the flower petals, sat a bucket of ice with champagne and two fluted glasses. A bowl of fruits such as cherries and grapes and strawberries sat next to the bucket. The final touch was the envelope. This Claire propped up in the center of the bed for Nyx to find tonight while she was on patrol. Tucked inside the envelope were two tickets to a remote resort in Oregon called Sunriver, and a note. My beloved Nyx, I know things have been crazy busy lately. Do you miss me as much as I miss you? I think we should get away. Just the two of us. I took the liberty of booking us a room this weekend at this Oregon resort. They have horseback riding, golf, fishing, skiing, hiking...you name it, they have it. The room has a King size bed and a jacuzzi. We could just stay inside the entire time, if you want. I just wanted you to know I love you dearly. You are my world, my calm in the storm, my everything. I'll be home soon, sweetheart. Crack open the champagne and wait for me. All my love, Claire Current Mood: giddy (Leave a comment)
November 5th, 2004
06:37 pm [Link]	Closing Up Claire glanced up from the bar as the door swung open. It was one of those rare nights when she was in the place alone at night to close up. Everyone was gone for the night and she was moments from locking the door. As the man entered the Lighthouse, that familiar tingle began up her spine. She had been opening her mouth to tell him sorry, but they were closed. Instead, her eyes narrowed and she grabbed at the stake that was always kept close on her person. Tristan cocked his head and grinned. "I'm sad to see the blonde isn't working tonight. I hope she has fully recovered?" He pulled his new leather jacket firmly around him, disappointed that he would not yet be allowed to seek his revenge on that particular slayer. Claire was sorry she didn't have her crossbow handy. She thought about throwing the stake, but wasn't confident in her aim. He had his arms crossed over his chest too. "You must be Tristan." He nodded. "It's a pleasure, I'm sure." He didn't advance, knowing what she was. He wouldn't be foolish. "We will get you, eventually. You must know that." Claire pulled the stake up so that he could see it, a threat clearly in her eyes. Tristan laughed wickedly. "Oh, I'm so scared." He thought of Rhiannon then, and he wondered what her sentiments would be on that. "Think about it, vampire. One of you. There's at least a dozen slayers close by. Soon, your time will come." She didn't know why she baited him like this. He was just so cocky standing there that it infuriated her all the more. "One of me? Well then, maybe I'll have to do something more about that." The smile left his face then. He nodded at her, goading her with his smug expression, and then turned and left. What did he mean by that? Claire quickly locked the door, closing the bar up for the night. She needed to talk to Jo. It was time they got organized, and took that bastard out! Current Mood: pissed off (Leave a comment)
October 26th, 2004
12:53 pm [Link]	Opening Time Claire came downstairs and into the bar. This was her favorite part of the work day. Opening time. It was quiet and peaceful. It was clean, because the janitors had just left. She was alone, lost in her thoughts. Normally on mornings such as this, as she cut the garnishes for the various drinks, made batch mixes, and set up the bar, she'd either turn on the cd juke box and dance around merrily, singing along to the tunes, or just hum her own cheerful tunes under her breath. Not this morning, however. Claire had not done a thing since reading Warren's letter. It still sat buried in her weapons chest. She had only read it the one time, but the words still flashed over her mind, continuously. She hadn't seen much of Nyx lately. They'd been working opposite shifts in the bar. (They really needed to hire some more workers. So far Jo's sign had brought in one, which was promising!) She missed him. Her knife slipped just then, going through the lemon slice and into her thumb. "Ow!" She pulled her thumb up, blood bubbling out of the meat of the thumb, a long gash across the fingertip. As it mingled with the lemon juice, the wound sung with pain. Claire hissed and sucked on her thumb, trying to soothe the pain. Soothing the pain...she had to tell Nyx. She had to. He meant everything to her now. That wasn't the issue. The issue was, did she want to face her past, face Warren? Or let him fade away back into history where he belonged? Current Mood: contemplative (Leave a comment)
October 20th, 2004
07:50 pm [Link]	A Blast From The Past Claire sat, stunned, on her and Nyx's bed. The letter, still unopened, lay in her hand. So many thoughts whirled through her brain. One moment she felt hot, the next moment, cold. Her fingers were shaking. After all this time, why now? Why had he written her now? And how had he found her? She was torn. Should she throw it away? Burn it? Destroy it without ever opening it? But then, she'd always wonder why he had written. He had caused her so much pain. Over the years, he had sent her so many mixed signals. He had been her first...everything. Her first Watcher. Her first friend after the change. Her first lover. Her first secret. He had left her, alone, desolate, confused, her heart shattered into a million pieces. He had chosen duty over her, not able to allow them to intermingle within their relationship. They had never been equals. He was always the strong one, the one who made the decisions. Eventually, he had made the decision to end it, no matter her tears, or pleas, or feelings. She was a different person now. She had went through one side, and come out the other as a stronger, more independent, secure woman. She was an excellent slayer. He had helped to mold her into that, but she had taken the reins after he left, and cut her own path. She had good friends now, a career even, and most importantly, she had Nyx. With Nyx, she was whole. She wasn't the "little girl" or the one not in control. She was an equal partner in a loving, trusting, relationship. With that thought in her mind, she decided to open the letter. She had Nyx in her heart. Nothing else mattered, and with his love shielding her, nothing Warren could ever say would hurt her again. ( Dear Claire ) Claire's face wore a mask, covering all emotion. She placed the letter deep inside her weapons chest and slammed the lid shut. She quickly changed into sweats and scratched out a note to Nyx explaining that she was going for a run. Her pounding footsteps were the only evidence of her churning insides and jumbled feelings. Current Mood: uncomfortable (Leave a comment)
October 7th, 2004
01:41 pm [Link]	Interrogation Claire had cajoled and whined her way out of bed. She was tired of being cooped up. Nyx had finally relented, with the right amount of kisses, and now Claire was propped up behind the bar at the Lighthouse. Nyx had ran off to do some shopping, and Jo was around somewhere, but for the moment, Claire was in charge. She smiled as she poured a local his beer. He gave her a wink, "Glad to have you back, sugar." Claire had decided some of the locals were decent folks. Jordan was not having a good day. She had spent most of her time on the phone to her superiors, trying to explain the fact she didn't have any answers and she had to listen as they warned her that they expected results and if they didn't get any, they would think about replacing her with a more "suitable" candidate. She was as always dressed in her black pant suit. The dark pants hugged her hips and fell neatly around her black heels. The white shirt and the black jacket completed the ensamble. Jordan shifted her blue shades to the top of her hair, this pushed stray strands of her hair back from her face and her eyes took in "The Lighthouse Bar" She smirked." A drink will do me good." With that said, Jordan entered the bar and wandered up towards the bar before she took a seat. Her leg crossed over one another and she pushed her jacket up so she avoided sitting on it. Her hands clasped together as she waited for one of the people behind the bar to notice her. ( Questioning ) Current Mood: bouncy (Leave a comment)
October 5th, 2004
12:16 pm [Link]	Home I'm finally out of the clinic. Slayer healing has kicked in, and I'm healing well. I'm still incredibly sore and stiff, and my movements are limited, but thank goodness I'm safe and out of that hospital bed. Nyx has been my guardian angel. He's out there in the kitchen now, making me a cup of tea while I laze around in bed. He won't let me lift a finger. So far I'm taking advantage of that, but soon I'll grow restless. We haven't really talked about what happened yet. I know he was terrified. Heck, I was terrified. I know in my calling that death could come at any moment, but knowing that and then coming close to it are two different things. Death has never been real to me. I'm on the side of light and good. The good guys always win, right? But this time, I almost didn't. I shouldn't have snuck out like that without telling him where I was going. I'll never do that again. It's this crazy town. The darkness called to me, I couldn't sleep, I was restless. Next time, I'll grab one of Nyx's matts and meditate. Patrolling alone in this town is dangerous. I've also been debating about moving in here with Nyx on a permanent basis. I'm here all the time anyways, but...I don't want to upset Jo. She's my best friend. Too bad Connor lives over the bar, or all three of us could have moved in there. Though, this place is rather comfy. I think I'd be comfy anywhere with Nyx though. I've learned in our time together that he is my home now. The shoulder is beginning a dull ache. It's time for some pills and sleep. Hopefully I can stay awake long enough to enjoy Nyx's tea. Current Mood: thankful (Leave a comment)
September 30th, 2004
12:04 am [Link]	Wake Up Call Nyx paced the small area that contained Claire's bed, a small table and an extremely uncomfortable chair. The clinic staff had tried to throw him out several times, and Jo as well. They'd been trading off keeping vigil, and between them, the staff was scared and had begun leaving them alone. He finally stopped moving and just stood at Claire's side, holding her hand gently in both of his own. He watched silently. Claire had a mire of tubing running in and out of her. Machines hummed silently recording her heart rate and other functions. She was listed in critical condition, but stable. Her mind was foggy as she began to stir from sleep. Her body still thought it was under attack, her mind still conscious only of the mine shaft...but her heart still only thought of Nyx. As Claire stirred slightly, Nyx tightened his grip on her hand a bit. He began to murmur softly, gentle words of encouragement for her. A thumb moved slowly along the flesh that was open on her hand as he knelt on the floor next to the bed, still waiting. ( Seeing The Light ) The nurse came in at that point, and Nyx just had time to tell Claire he loved her again and stroke her cheek lightly before he was hustled out the door so they could poke at her and check her out again. He slumped in the chairs outside the room, pulling his cell phone out to call Jo. Current Mood: discontent (1 comment \| Leave a comment)
September 28th, 2004
02:30 am [Link]	Running Out Of Time A searing pain ran through Claire's shoulder, down her arm, and through her fingers. She couldn't move without crying out. Even breathing in the short gasps her lungs allowed was excruciating. She had tried to free herself from the object holding her to the ground, but she had lost consciousness more times than she could count even attempting to move, let alone pull or break the beam's end off. A slayer, staked through the shoulder. It was almost funny. Claire wasn't laughing, however. The thirst was also unbearable. Her tongue felt swollen, her mouth full of cotton balls and gravel seemed to inch it's way down her throat. Claire had been down in the mine shaft for twenty four hours now. By some miracle she was still alive. Luckily, no demon nor vampire nor zombie had found her yet. She didn't have much time, however. The thought that kept running through her mind? Did I tell Nyx how much I loved him? It was only a matter of time now, perhaps just hours, before Claire would think no more. Current Mood: morose (Leave a comment)
September 27th, 2004
01:07 am [Link]	All We Are Is Dust In The Wind Claire was restless. She tossed and turned but sleep would not come. She didn't want to wake up Nyx, so she softly kissed his forehead as he slept, and climbed out of bed. The eternal darkness was wearing on her nerves, as were the zombies and demons out in constant motion. Perhaps a short patrol would help ease her so that she could find sleep. She pulled on an old pair of levi's and one of Nyx's flannel shirts. Then she grabbed her onyx knife, a sword, and a few stakes, securing them on various parts of her body. With a final glance back at her lover lying more on her side of the bed than his, she gave a small smile and then slipped outside. The darkness was accompanied by fog. Since when was there fog in Nevada? Since now, I guess, she thought. ( Patrolling Alone With Consequence ) Current Mood: scared (Leave a comment)
September 21st, 2004
01:56 am [Link]	Tired Out The bar opened to little fanfare today, but I'm not really surprised. I think a lot of the "outsiders" will be here on Wednesday night for the gathering that Dominick is having. I think that's a great idea. It will be good for everyone to meet, put some faces on some names, and share information. Connor moved in upstairs, over the bar. I'm actually relieved about that. Now that we've met, I think Nyx's instincts were right. It's nice to know we have someone there looking out for the place too. Hannah, on the other hand, was very timid. I don't think there was anything really between her and Connor, at least...not yet. The way her eyes lit up when we mentioned Dominick, however, that was intriguing. Either way, that girl seems to not be used to a lot of people. She's very independent I think. She also has some other funny traits. For one, she slept on the floor in the guest room instead of in the bed! Well, to each their own, I guess. I'm tired tonight. What with the bar opening for business, and the locals weird behaviors on patrol, I just don't have an ounce of energy left. I don't know what's bothering the locals more than usual, but something is bugging them. I'm used to the glares and the poor service, but now there is outright violence amongst them. We'll have to talk about that on Wednesday too. Current Mood: sleepy Current Music: Lullabye, Ben Folds Five (Leave a comment)
September 15th, 2004
05:04 pm [Link]	Love Can Be Fun Nyx puttered around, putting a final coat of sealer on the bar top. It had been looking rather distressed due to misuse and hard times, but it looked pretty good now. Just have to remember not to set anything on it for a day or so. He smiled and moved into the back to put stuff away and get cleaned up, ready to not have the chemicals he'd been working with all over his skin anymore. Claire was finishing some landscaping work out front. She placed a final rock in the border of the flower garden and then stood to stretch. Her lower back protested to being crouched down for such a long time. She wandered inside to see what Nyx was up to, giving a low whistle as she saw the gorgeour bar top. Nyx heard that whistle and laughed as he called out needlessly, "Don't touch it! Still wet!" He grinned to himself, shutting off the water and grabbing a towel to dry his hands. He walked out into the main bar room and smiled at Claire, tucking the rag into his back pocket. "Hiya." "Hey, handsome." Claire smiled and reached up to kiss him softly on the lips. "I didn't know you had so many talents. The wooden floors, the bar top, you've done magic!" Nyx kissed her back and shook his head faintly, a light blush turning his ears a little pink. "Nah, not magic. Just hard work." He grinned though, looking proud of himself. He pulled her close in a tight hug, dropping a light kiss on her hair. "How's it going outside?" "Finished, I think. I just need to get a hold of Devon about putting up the sign, and then I think we'll be just about ready to open." Claire wriggled in his arms in an excited sort of way. "I can't wait to turn on the Open sign." Nyx chuckled softly as he listened to her and smiled. "Sounds good. I had a wannabe customer in here last night when I was finishing up the floors." His tone was amused, and he knew she'd want to hear the whole story. "Really?" She backed out of his embrace to flop down on a nearby chair. "Do tell." Her grin was huge as she rested her chin on her hand, elbow propped up on a table. Her eyes twinkled as she looked at Nyx. How did she get so lucky? God, he was handsome, and talented, and good hearted, and loving...she got distracted just gazing at him. Nyx smiled, setting himself down in a chair opposite Claire's. "By the name of Connor. He's the same sort that's been coming into town a lot recently." He watched her, taking in each of those same little details that made her beautiful to him. "He was asking all kinds of questions about the strangeness that is Searchlight." He was curious to find some of the same answers the young man had been seeking. Claire held up her fingers and started ticking each digit off. "Slayers, Watchers, Vampires, Wiccas, and god knows what else...which is he?" She stretched out her arm and started tracking his fingers with her own as they rested on the table. She always had to be touching him, it seemed. Nyx captured her hand in both of his own, holding it with one and stroking the top and fingers lightly with the other. "I'm thinking none of the above. He said he's one of a kind, but didn't go into detail." He shrugged, not really caring. "He didn't try to kill me, so I guess he's alright." Claire frowned. "He'd be dead before he could even think of it. No one messes with my man." Her stomach growled loudly. "I think it's time to get something to eat." She giggled and blushed. ( Good Food ) ( Fun Times At Home...NC17 ) Current Mood: content (Leave a comment)
September 11th, 2004
06:20 pm [Link]	Progress The place was really coming together. Claire was amazed at everything Nyx had accomplished. What a surprise! She'd have to come up with some way to thank him properly. The hardwood floors were gorgeous too. Claire couldn't wait to get the Lighthouse Bar and Grill opened for business. Devon let out an aggravated breath as he tore up yet another newspaper, all the jobs in there had suddenly been taken, of course, he didn't trust anything the locals had to tell him and it was frustrating him. His nose caught a scent and slowly he lifted his eyes, they came to rest on, what was her name? Claire, that was it, and she seemed to be beaming at some sort of establishment. He tossed the torn newspaper in the nearest trashcan before wandering over to where she stood," Hello Claire." "Hey, how are you?" Claire remembered him from the diner. His eyes were still so intense. He was in town for family business if she remembered correctly. As she waited for his answer her eyes darted around the property. She was envisioning where to put the sign. Of course, they had to have a sign first, but once they did, where would be the best place to put it? On the building itself, or on a pole? " I'm doing alright, aside from being frustrated at the lack of jobs in this town." Devon answered, watching as her eyes moved around the property, his arms moved across his chest as he too, took a moment to observe the place. Claire's ears perked up at that. "Oh, are you looking for work? Don't suppose you are handy with tools and creative at sign making, are you?" She gave him a hopeful look, rocking back and forth on her feet with nervous envergy. Devon eyed her from the corner of his eye, did she always move around so much? He shrugged his shoulders, offering her a faint smile," I am and actually I am, it would seem not many people are hiring that sort of help." "Well, as it so happens, me and my partners are definitely in the need! We just bought this place and are working on fixing it up before opening. I was thinking about a sign now. We're going to call it the Lighthouse Bar and Grill. We need someone to make the sign, for starters, as well as other various handyman jobs. If you want the work, I'd be glad to have you." He arched an eyebrow," I'd like that." He said with another nod of his head, he really was a man of few words and whilst the strange sensation he had felt when he had shaken Claire's hand still worried him, he didn't see why he shouldn't take work where it was going. He needed the money after all and Claire seemed nice enough. "Fantastic! Once we open we'll need a small staff, you know...bartenders, servers, bouncers...you'll have work as long as you want it." Claire held out her hand again to shake on the deal. Devon eyed the hand almost warily before he surpressed his inner voice and took Claire's hand with his own, shaking it," I look forward to starting work." Claire gave him a firm handshake, her eyes meeting his as she grinned at him. He still seemed so tense. Well, she'd just have to work on him, get him to lighten up. Between her and Jo and Nyx, she didn't think that would be a problem. She wondered if he ever cracked a joke? Once they opened for business, she thought he'd make a much better bouncer than bartender, attitude wise. It was a new mission to undertake...getting Devon to laugh! Current Mood: content (Leave a comment)
September 10th, 2004
12:23 am [Link]	Russian Unorthodox? Claire wiped the bangs off of her forehead, oblivious to the dirt smudges she left in it's wake. She had finished patrol early and had decided to use some of her nervous energy on removing some of the junk from the property they had just purchased for the bar. She whistled as she worked. She was excited. Jo and Nyx had been excited to. Everything was falling into place! Lots of bangs and clanks. Even if hearing was at an average level, Sonya's attention would have been roused fairly high. The whistling too. Her step had come to a sudden halt, almost as if held back by gravity. Even by Searchlight standards, the locals had got quire tetchy, but it was Sonya's first day and, to her, it seemed as if it was simply how they were. For a moment, she was hesitant, though - really, it sounded like a happy tune... So, frowning, head ducking round the corner of opened door, a young girl with red hair rapped knuckled against it. Once, twice, three times for the asking. ( A New Face ) Current Mood: calm (Leave a comment)
September 7th, 2004
11:35 pm [Link]	Holy God In Heaven ( NC 17...Never Leave Me ) Current Mood: giddy (1 comment \| Leave a comment)
September 2nd, 2004
10:35 pm [Link]	Possibilities Claire executed a perfect spinning heel kick, colliding with the vampire's chin. He flew backwards in a heap. She quickly ran over and bent down to plunge a stake through his heart. Dusted. She stood up straight and patted off her clothing. Her instincts told her there were no other threats in the vacinity. Claire was surprised to find this one so close to downtown, if you could call the one street a downtown. She had been making her way home when that tingling had overtaken her spine, causing her to jog towards the East side of town. Now she stood on the corner of East Hobson and Addition street. Curious as to what the sign in the window of the building said, she took a few steps closer. It was a "For Sale" sign. Claire peeked in the windows. It was an old abandoned bar. Dust coated everything, and it was obvious that it would need a lot of work, but it piqued Claire's interest. She couldn't do it on her own. She'd need a partner. Maybe two, as investors and workers. A grin came over her face. This could be the perfect place! Her parent's death had left her not wanting financially, but a job would be nice. An owner, well, that would be even better. It could be quite the hangout for other slayers, wiccans, and watchers...and even civilians such as Nyx. Sure, it would not be a private club or anything. They'd have to cater to the lone tourists and any brave locals that would venture in. But it definitely had possibilities. Claire turned back towards her home with a smile. She had some talking to do with Jo and Nyx. Current Mood: energetic Current Music: Old Time Rock and Roll, Bob Seger (Leave a comment)
September 1st, 2004
02:33 pm [Link]	Watchers Make Me Nervous Matthew in order to take his mind off the problem with his eyes had found himself a pretty isolated part of town to train his body, to free his mind, to take it off the problem with his eyes. He was dressed in a pair of loose dark pants and a dark blue tanktop, his hair was left dry and untouched by gel for the moment but was slightly wet from the sweat built up throughout his work out. His muscles tensed and his body flowed fluidly as he moved across the ground, lifting a leg and arm to hit out at imaginary opponents, the movements were slow and easy. His palms were flattened out against the air and he seemed to be releasing a breath each time he moved, his bare feet kicked up some sand as he moved in a wide circle, each move was thought out but looked close to effortless. Claire had decided to go for a run after her training. She had worked on her TKD poomses, and then did some weapons training with her crossbow. She practiced shooting it on the move while spinning, since she had missed that one vamp the other night. Claire slowed her run as she recognized Matthew doing some of his own training. Matthew's eyes slid shut, if his sight was going to fail at some point, he had to rely on his other senses. He hit out at the air with his palms before his hands curled into fists and as he turned on his heel, he brought them around himself in a wide arc. He listened to the sound of his hands moving through the air, and used that sound to pinpoint where his leg should kick before lifting it, balancing easily on his other leg as he kicked at the air with his now lifted leg. He stayed like that for a moment, exhaling another breath before he lowered his leg and shrugged his shoulders as he opened his eyes. ( Getting To Know You ) Current Mood: bored (Leave a comment)
11:55 am [Link]	Celebration My relationship with Nyx seems to have survived patrol. He has seen what I truly am now, and as of yet, he hasn't run. I can't tell you how happy that makes me. We spent the night together on his sofa. We were huddled together, taking comfort from one another and lost in our own thoughts regarding that night's truths revealed, and we fell asleep together. It was so sweet. I didn't want it to ever end. I have made a decision though. I want to take it slow, in some ways. I'm a girl that has never really dated. I've never really been "courted" before, and I want that. I don't want to go from A straight to Z. I want all those letters in between. I want to be just a normal girl with a normal boyfriend, even if the rest of my life is oh so not normal Things with Jack were complicated, painful, difficult, and I always felt like loving him was wrong, because he kept telling me it was wrong. Love is never wrong. Love is the reason we fight and the reason we live. This time, I want to celebrate love. I'm pretty sure Nyx will understand, and that makes me the luckiest woman in the world. Current Mood: jubilant Current Music: Thriller, Michael Jackson (Leave a comment)
August 26th, 2004
01:14 pm [Link]	Truth Time Nyx grumbled softly to himself, not really hearing it over the music blaring. The rain drummed on the roof, washing everything away. "Doesn't that figure, I wash and wax my car, and the first thing it does is pour rain on it." He muttered to himself as he moved furniture around the room, rearranging everything and cleaning where each piece had been resting. He came to the last piece, the big, comfortable chair where Claire had sat last time she was over, and he laughed to himself before he shoved it over against the wall. His foot landed on something hard and cylindrical, and he frowned as he looked down to see what looked like an old fashioned tent stake. "The hell is this?" He picked it up, hefting it in his hand, feeling the balance of it. "Weird." He shoved it in his back pocket and went about finishing the cleanup job he was almost done with. Claire was finding it easier and easier to knock on Nyx's door. She was bummed by the rain. Was it a sign that the BBQ shouldn't happen? She sighed and knocked on his door, smiling as she heard the music coming from within. He had good taste in tunes. Nyx looked up, wiping a few streaks of sweat away from his face, leaving smudges of dust in their place. He got up off the floor, the stake still in his back pocket, and went to the door with a faint smile. Could only be one person at the door, which he opened to show Claire against a backdrop of pouring rain and roiling clouds. "I think the bbq is off once again." Claire smiled regretfully but reached out and wiped Nyx's cheek with her fingers. "You are so cute!" Nyx laughed softly, backing away to let Claire in. "I'd say so, this is most definitely dodgy weather to be trying to have a bbq in." He smiled, closing the door behind her and reaching to take her jacket from her. "I'm not cute, I'm filthy!" He grinned though, pleased at the compliment. "Very cute. Don't argue with me." She smiled as he took off her jacket for her. Such the gentleman. The butterfiles started in her stomach again. It was refreshing to realize that not all of the good guys were taken. She hoped Nyx would be off the market quite soon, however. "So, what are you up to today? Doing some Spring cleaning?" Nyx turned and hung the jacket on a recently installed peg as he nodded, his face slightly flushed. "Yeah, the place is so old, it needs it at least once a week." A laugh rang clearly through the room as he turned back around. "I really am disgusting, but I'd love a hug if you'd be willing." Gentle brown eyes captured her, taking in all the details once again. She quirked an eyebrow at him. "Just a hug?" At his adorable expression she went into his opened arms, her lips brushing against his. She ran her fingers down his neck and over his shoulders. He was covered in dust and sweat, which Claire found very manly and sexy. Nyx wrapped her up against himself, returning the soft kiss with a gentle one of his own. Hands found their way to the small of her back, resting lightly there as he breathed her scent in, mixed with the fresh smell of rain, and his own underlying smell. "Whatever you want.." Claire could have gotten easily lost in his kiss right then, but she remembered why she had come over in the first place. It was time for them to talk. She didn't want to progress any further with what lay between them not discussed. She wanted this relationship to be real, and deep, and honest. It had to start on a true foundation. She pulled out of his arms gently and smiled at him, running her nose against his. "Actually, I want us to talk. Is that okay?" Nyx let her go easily with a smile. "That's fine, I did say anything." A faintly teasing tone before he sobered and moved to the couch to sit down. He dropped into its thickly cushioned surface and winced. He lifted his hips, pulling the stake from his back pocket and shaking his head at it before letting it drop onto the coffee table. "I can't figure out where that came from, or what it's for." He looked up at her and shrugged. Claire's face sobered instantly when she saw her stake hit the coffee table. She knew her face had drained of some color, so she wouldn't look at him. Instead she took the stake, running the smooth wood surface under her fingertips. It felt so natural in her grip, as if it belonged there. "I can tell you. I need to tell you." Despite the fact Claire wouldn't meet his eyes, Nyx could see the unnaturally pale tone to her cheek and he frowned. He watched her handle to wood and listened to her words, knowing something big was coming. He supposed he shouldn't be surprised at anything she might say, after the fucked up weather the past couple days, so his voice was steady, but very soft. "Then tell me." He curled up into the couch, waiting to see what would be revealed. Claire stood up so she could pace, and also because she felt the need to be moving. The stake in her hand did that. "I think you've noticed before that I am, well, stronger than the average girl." She flipped the stake up in the air. It tumbled over to land perfectly in her other hand. Nyx breathed a laugh out as he watched her. "Yeah, I did note that." What in God's name was she working up to? He curled his legs under himself, letting his hands rest lightly against his thighs as he waited for everything to be made clear. Claire wished it was night. She felt the need to show him rather than just tell him. How do you convince someone of the darkness in the light of the day? She stopped suddenly and met his gaze. "Did you ever wonder if the villains in your movies, the monsters, were real?" Nyx's spine straightened under her gaze, the question seeming completely out of left field. "Occasionally.." He trailed off, brown eyes sharpening as he watched her. "Why?" He got up, going to the counter where he'd left his bottle of water when he'd been cleaning. He uncapped it and drank slowly from it. "Have you ever seen things in the night, and then later shrugged them off thinking they were just your imagination? Read or heard of mysterious deaths that could never logically be explained?" Nyx's lips quirked at the question as he thought back through his life. "Sure. Who hasn't?" He left the bottle on the counter, uncapped, and went to her, standing directly in front of her. "Claire, what're you saying?" Claire looked at him with a serious expression. She inhaled sharply, and just hoped he wouldn't think she was nuts. Perhaps this town and the feelings in invoked would help her win him over. "Monsters are real. Vampires, Werewolves, demons, they are all real Nyx. And I'm a warrior against them. I fight them. For I am a slayer, chosen and given the powers and the knowledge and the strength to beat them." She held up her stake. "This is just one of my weapons." Nyx shoved his hands through still slightly sweat damp hair as she spoke, a frown darkening his entire face. He thought back once again, to his family, his sister. She'd said something similar when he was younger, though he'd thought she was just messing with his head at the time. He lacked the words to express himself, and he sputtered a few times before shoving his hands in his pockets and pacing the floor for a minute. A sharp turn brought him face to face with her again. "I .." He had no words. Claire deflated, shoving the stake into her boot. It felt like it was home there. "Jo is a slayer too, and there are many others here. Watchers too. Watchers train us, provide us with research, and such." She scrunched up her nose, not too fond of watchers herself. "The point of the bbq was to introduce you to them all. I want you safe, and I want you to know what I am. I don't want any lies between us ever. I know it's all hard to believe, so I'll have to show you eventually. But..." She didn't know what else to say, instead she just peered at him intently, willing him to believe her. He watched her deflate, listened to the rapid rush of explanation, the idea that there were many of these Slayers? A lot to swallow. He half believed, remembering her lifting that box with no effort, shooting the crossbow, saving his hand from the scorpion. It wasn't really that unbelievable, he could feel the strength in her body every time he held her near. And that's just what he did, he pulled her into a tight hug, resting his cheek against the top of her head lightly. "I'm willing to see what you have to show." He spoke slowly, softly, his hands running along her back slowly. Claire sighed in relief, kissing him lightly on the cheek. Then she pulled out of his embrace and looked around the room. She glanced at the television. It stood on a stand on the other side of the room. She walked over and picked the entire thing off of the ground without much effort. "Can't prove the monsters thing right now, but I can prove my strength." She replaced it gently on the floor. Hopefully he didn't find her too intimidating now. She may have physical strength, but inside, she was still just a little girl wanting to be held. Nyx gave her a squeeze before letting her go, his eyes tracking her to where his tv was, watching her pick it and its stand up, and set it back down. "Well hell." A faintly teasingt one entered his voice, "Where were you when I was packing up to leave California?" He laughed softly, she and Jo had helped him get everything in here, but they'd worked together, which downplayed the display of strength he'd just been given. Claire giggled at that. "So, you aren't going to call the looney bin on me then?" Nyx shrugged faintly, a half smile on his lips as he dropped back onto the couch. "It's criminal or insane to be more than the regular strong?" A full smile broke out as he gestured her to sit again. "You might have to call the white jackets on me though, if you're going to show me all sorts of crazy monster type deals." Half teasing, he wondered how he'd really handle that. "Well, after the raining of blood and meat, seeing a vampire will be easy peasy." She giggled and joined him on the couch, her head falling against his shoulder. Nyx wrapped his arm around her shoulder and relaxed against her with a sigh. "I suppose you're right." Now he had something to worry about, was that why she'd always been out so late? Out hunting these creatures of the night that she claimed exsisted? "You're careful when you fight, right?" Claire smiled at his concern. "Yes, I'm always careful. And usually I go with Jo too, so I'm not alone. I've been doing this a long time now, Nyx. Don't worry about me, okay? I just wanted you to believe in me." Nyx smiled faintly, giving her shoulders a light squeeze. "I think I would've believed in you no matter what, Claire." He blinked, not quite sure why he'd actually voiced that to her. It was amuch deeper admission of feelings than he generally gave to anyone, for anything. Claire blushed, and took one of his hands in her own. "Thank you. And...I know what you mean. I think you could tell me that pigs fly right now, and I'd believe in you." Nyx laughed softly, shaking his head as he squeezed her hand. "I'll never tell you that unless I actually see it." He shifted, turning to face her, and leaned to place a slow kiss against her mouth. Claire returned the kiss. It was undemanding and gentle. She reached up to touch the side of his face, grateful that he was there. His fingers came up to touch the back of her hand, trailing slowly down along her skin, and back up her arm, ending with his hand resting warm against the side of her neck. He allowed the kiss to linger, enjoying the touch of her, the knowledge that she was right, here with him. Current Mood: nervous (1 comment \| Leave a comment)
August 24th, 2004
09:39 am [Link]	Complications What the hell? There is meat and blood falling from the sky! This place just gets stranger and stranger. Someone obviously doesn't want us to have a bbq. Well, we'll show them! We'll figure out something. Jo and I can be quite resourceful when driven! I've decided I want to tell Nyx before the party. At the party will come his confirmations. I'm sure he'll have disbelief, and think I'm off my rocker, but the people at the party can help persuade him. But I want to be the one to actually tell him, alone. I'm so nervous about it! I really hope he accepts and understands. I think....no...I know I'm having very complicated feelings for him. I can't stop thinking about him, wanting to be with him... Boy, am I glad my motorcycle is in a covered garage. It is so nasty out there. UGH, and the smell! Current Mood: cranky (Leave a comment)

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