Life After Love (doreados and mkkdreams)
<h1 id="title">Elliquiy Role Playing Forums</h1>
		<h2 id="linktree">Play-By-Post: Bondage, D/s, S&amp;M =&gt; Bondage: Exotic Solos =&gt; Topic started by: mkkdreams on 04-08-2009, 13:45:30</h2>
		<dl id="posts">
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Life After Love (doreados and mkkdreams)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>mkkdreams</strong> on <strong>04-08-2009, 13:45:30</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				A vase went flying through the open doorway, shattering as it hit the marble floor.&nbsp; Maidens went scattering everywhere, their shrieks echoing.<br><br>"Shut. Up!"<br><br>Artemis followed the trail of the broken vase, storming through the halls of her temple to flop most unladylike in her throne.&nbsp; Her green eyes flashed and her fiery hair flowed about her shoulders.&nbsp; She'd let him go and what did she get in return?&nbsp; Lover after lover who turned out to be nothing more than another puppet, sniveling and groveling in hopes that she'd give them something in return.&nbsp; But none of them deserved it.&nbsp; Because none of them were HIM.<br><br>She stood and stomped her foot, her anger rising another notch.<br><br>"Damn you, Acheron!"<br><br>He'd ruined her.&nbsp; It was all his fault.&nbsp; That's all there was to it.&nbsp; He'd left her for that WOMAN and now she was stuck here having to pick up the pieces.&nbsp; She threw her head back and screamed.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Life After Love (doreados and mkkdreams)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Pretty in Pink</strong> on <strong>04-08-2009, 13:51:24</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				But at the very moment she screamed, another scream rang out through her hall, a scream of the soul, a scream filled with pain and heartache.&nbsp; A scream of not just the soul, but the entire body.<br><br>Graham was just debating how to end his life.&nbsp; He never realized his soul had just cried out like that.&nbsp; On the floor in front of him was a letter, a letter that was scribbled in a furious hand, written with all the anger and distaste the writer could muster.<br><br>The contents were much more than the gist, but the gist was that the writer wanted nothing to do with Graham, as she -- which the signature revealed was the case -- saw him as a fool and something to be pitied, not loved.&nbsp; It mentioned an earlier letter going the other way, confessing feelings of never ending love that were not wanted.<br><br>Graham sighed, and shook his head.&nbsp; "Bloody bitch," he said, grumbling softly.&nbsp; "Can't believe this.&nbsp; My own damn brother, walking off with the girl I love and turning her against me so much that she calls me names like that," he said, ripping the letter to pieces, scattering them around him where he sat on the floor.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Life After Love (doreados and mkkdreams)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>mkkdreams</strong> on <strong>04-08-2009, 14:01:14</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				The scream brought Artemis to her knees.&nbsp; She gripped at her heart and doubled over, breathing hard.&nbsp; When silence again filled the hall, she got shakily to her feet.&nbsp; And then frantically looked around to see what had caused the sound.<br><br>She called for Kat and asked if she knew what had taken place, but her daughter shook her head in confusion, trying to decipher her mother's rambling.<br><br>"I didn't hear anything.&nbsp; Only you.&nbsp; And I assumed that it meant that things with Riordan didn't go any better than the others."<br><br>"If you weren't my daughter, I'd break you like I did that damn vase for your insolence.&nbsp; I need you to find out who it was that I heard.&nbsp; And you need to bring them here.&nbsp; At once.&nbsp; Is that clear?"<br><br>Katra, bowed before her mother, but rolled her eyes.&nbsp; She never understood why it was that her mother didn't do her own dirty work.&nbsp; And having nothing much to go on besides a scream, she didn't know where to start.&nbsp; But she wasn't about to say anything more and disappeared.<br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Life After Love (doreados and mkkdreams)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Pretty in Pink</strong> on <strong>04-08-2009, 14:05:46</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				This time, what Artemis heard wasn't a scream.&nbsp; It was a plea.&nbsp; Not the normal plea she heard, that sent her running with her little tattooing tools to claim a new Dark Hunter.&nbsp; The type of plea that actually caught her attention.<br><br>"Why?&nbsp; Why the hell am I so foolish?&nbsp; Why did I fall in love with her and then tell my brother?&nbsp; He ALWAYS steals what I want, what I hope to have as my own.&nbsp; Every time I find something I like, he comes along and turns it against me, or worse yet, steals it from under me."
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Life After Love (doreados and mkkdreams)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>mkkdreams</strong> on <strong>04-08-2009, 14:14:06</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				She heard the voice this time.&nbsp; The voice of pain.&nbsp; And she tried to shut herself off to it all.&nbsp; It wasn't unusual.&nbsp; She'd heard it before.&nbsp; <em>Help me, Artemis.&nbsp; I'll do anything Artemis.&nbsp; Please Artemis.</em>&nbsp; But this time it was different.&nbsp; It actually pulled at her.<br><br>She laughed.&nbsp; This was ridiculous.&nbsp; No one ever pulled at her.&nbsp; No one got under her skin.&nbsp; Except for him.&nbsp; And she'd know if it was Acheron.&nbsp; Besides, the ass was MARRIED now.&nbsp; So it wasn't like it would be him calling anyway.&nbsp; It was probably some kind of cruel joke.&nbsp; And when she found out who was behind it, they would pay.<br><br>Artemis sat in her throne and grasped the armrests.&nbsp; She closed her eyes and took a breath, focusing on the voice in her head.&nbsp; And in her mind, she began to see an image.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Life After Love (doreados and mkkdreams)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Pretty in Pink</strong> on <strong>04-08-2009, 14:18:07</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Now, the things in front of him had changed.&nbsp; He was leaned back against a wall, and in front of him was a small knife, razor sharp obviously as it was gleaming darkly in the light.&nbsp; A rope, clearly made out of an old bed sheet.&nbsp; A bottle of pain medication and a fifth of Jack Daniels.&nbsp; Several other objects that, very clearly, could be used to end ones life.<br><br>Then his voice came again, as one hand reached up to brush his red hair out of his golden hued eyes.&nbsp; "How am I going to do it?" he murmured.&nbsp; "How would it hit them both hardest.&nbsp; Slit wrists or throat?&nbsp; Mmm.&nbsp; No, too slow.&nbsp; Overdose?&nbsp; Psh.&nbsp; Too tame.&nbsp; Hanging could screw up too easily.&nbsp; Burning's painful.&nbsp; Shooting would be quick... painless, probably couldn't screw it up if I tried... messy, too."<br><br>His hand reached for the 45 sitting to his right, turning it over and over.&nbsp; "I mean, hell, what's the point in living, right?&nbsp; She doesn't want me, why bother?"
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Life After Love (doreados and mkkdreams)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>mkkdreams</strong> on <strong>04-08-2009, 14:27:04</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				The scene played out before her eyes.&nbsp; As she watched him contemplate the various ways he could end his life, she sat back, not interfering, rather sure that he wouldn't do it.&nbsp; After all, it was so common.&nbsp; These humans would get all mopey and depressed and try to "end" it, only to break down and cry.&nbsp; And then the next day they'd either be shocked that they tried it or act as if they were heroes who'd overcome the biggest foe ever.<br><br>With all the pain in her life after having had to give up Acheron to his love and being alone, she figured she could use the entertainment.&nbsp; And she was intrigued.&nbsp; She wanted to know why it was that this particular man had managed to call to her in such a way.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Life After Love (doreados and mkkdreams)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Pretty in Pink</strong> on <strong>04-08-2009, 14:36:30</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				But as she watched, he sighed, and put the gun to his head, and then paused, looking at the objects around him.&nbsp; "You know what?&nbsp; Screw her.&nbsp; I guarantee you the both of them would CELEBRATE if I turned up dead.&nbsp; The way I see it, the biggest revenge I can take on the BOTH of them is to stay alive, and move on with my life."<br><br>He nodded, and stood, gathering up the things, laughing to himself softly.&nbsp; It was a bitter, cynical kind of laugh.&nbsp; "Thinking about it, my brother basically turned me into his girl magnet.&nbsp; Let's me get them for him, and then steals them from me once he's realized they're actually interested in me, and then throws them away once he's done with them."<br><br>He shook his head, a little disgust in his next words.&nbsp; "Well, lets see how he likes a taste of his own medicine.&nbsp; I know for a fact that he wants that promotion.&nbsp; I wonder how his managers would feel if they found out he was stealing from them?" he said, flipping over some photos from a security camera feed.&nbsp; His brother's face was clear, as well as some high dollar clothing, off of which he was ripping the tags, and VERY CLEARLY sticking into a duffel bag.<br><br>"Let's see how he likes having things he wants taken away from HIM," he said, with a tone in his voice that seemed to RING in her ears as the very same tone she had taken herself on SEVERAL occasions when dealing with new Dark Hunters.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Life After Love (doreados and mkkdreams)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>mkkdreams</strong> on <strong>04-08-2009, 14:42:58</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				She arched a brow and tilted her head.&nbsp; A smile slowly spread across her lips.&nbsp; Now this... this was different.&nbsp; He was different.&nbsp; For the first time she took in his appearance, not just his actions.&nbsp; And she liked what she saw.<br><br>His vindictiveness appealed to her.&nbsp; She would have summoned him to her right then, but she wanted to see this play out.&nbsp; And with a flick of her hand, she provided him with more help and evidence to do whatever it was he wanted to his brother.<br><br>Dusting her hands, she opened her eyes and pulled away from the vision and got up to stretch.&nbsp; It seemed it was going to be a good day after all.&nbsp; 
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Life After Love (doreados and mkkdreams)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Pretty in Pink</strong> on <strong>04-08-2009, 22:48:54</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				He grabbed the folder beneath the photos, tucking them back into the envelope.&nbsp; He paused for a moment.&nbsp; "There's more here than before," he mused, pulling them back out and flipping through them.&nbsp; His eyes widened when he came across several photos of his brother doing very dirty things with his female boss, as well as one of his male co-workers.<br><br>"Holy hell!" he muttered, and then grinned.&nbsp; "This is going to be a good day.&nbsp; Today's dish of the day: revenge.&nbsp; Best served cold, with a bottle of Jack on the side," he muttered, and headed out to his car.&nbsp; He was going to see to it that his brother learned not to steal from him, once and for all.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Life After Love (doreados and mkkdreams)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>mkkdreams</strong> on <strong>05-08-2009, 10:37:57</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Artemis soon lost track of the man she had helped, her concentration straying to the nearest plaything... which was currently Jace.&nbsp; She would visit him and lavish him with attention, enjoying all that he gave her in return.&nbsp; Which of course only lasted about three days before she became undeniably bored.&nbsp; <br><br>The man had no backbone.&nbsp; She'd throw a fit and he'd fall to his knees and grovel to do whatever it took to please her.&nbsp; He just didn't seem to understand her at all.&nbsp; The simpering fool.&nbsp; So she spent the next day trying to teach him to grow one.<br><br>It wasn't her fault he wasn't strong enough to stand her power.&nbsp; She barely touched him and the man had died.&nbsp; She was just trying to be helpful.&nbsp; It just went to show that he wasn't meant to be hers.<br><br>Sitting in her throne, Artemis sighed and swung her feet up so that she sat sideways in the thing.&nbsp; She tapped her toe in the air and hung her head back over the opposite arm rest, trying to find something to do.<br><br>"By the gods, there MUST be SOMETHING to keep a goddess occupied around here."
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Life After Love (doreados and mkkdreams)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Pretty in Pink</strong> on <strong>05-08-2009, 21:25:44</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				And that would be when she heard a very familiar voice.<br><br>"Let me explain something to you, brother of mine.&nbsp; Time after time after time, you've stolen from me.&nbsp; Now?&nbsp; I'm going to take from you," he said, holding his phone slightly away from his ear.&nbsp; "This time, you're going to lose what is most important to you: your job.&nbsp; I am DONE playing games with you."&nbsp; Slapping the phone closed, he slipped it back into his pocket, and then walked into his brother's place of work.<br><br>The brother wasn't there, but he knew his brother's favorite manager was.&nbsp; He walked in.&nbsp; "I'd like to see your manager," he said to the first person he saw.<br><br>Five minutes later, he was sitting in the manager's office as the man flipped through the photos.&nbsp; "So... you say you're from our security company, and that's how you got these?"<br><br>He brushed some lint off his sports jacket, and nodded.&nbsp; "I am.&nbsp; I thought you might find it interesting that your 'star employee' is banging multiple other employees," he said.<br><br>The manager nodded.&nbsp; "Thank you for this information.&nbsp; You can rest assured his actions will not be tolerated."<br><br>Graham smiled, and stood.&nbsp; "I'm just glad that I could help.&nbsp; You have a wonderful day," he said, and then walked out.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Life After Love (doreados and mkkdreams)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>mkkdreams</strong> on <strong>07-08-2009, 02:32:18</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				When the voice spoke, she sat up straight in the throne.&nbsp; It was HIM.&nbsp; Again.&nbsp; She tilted her head and closed her eyes, focusing in on what was going on.&nbsp; A smile crossed her lips as she listened to the tone in his voice.&nbsp; It was filled with contempt and cunning and she was intrigued.<br><br>She let the images begin to flow behind her closed eyes and the look on the manager's face was priceless.&nbsp; She was glad that she had helped him out.&nbsp; The whole interaction was priceless.<br><br>Sitting back, she got comfortable.&nbsp; It seemed that someone had answered her wish and she was about to have an interesting time after all.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Life After Love (doreados and mkkdreams)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Pretty in Pink</strong> on <strong>08-08-2009, 02:40:48</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				He stopped along the way, pulling a pen out of his glove box and writing something on the envelope the photos were in.&nbsp; Then, he pulled over in front of his brother's mailbox.&nbsp; He knew his brother was on his way to work, so he wouldn't be the one to get the mail.<br><br>He slipped the envelope into the mailbox, and as he was pulling away, he laid on the horn, and smiled as the woman of contention came out to the mailbox.&nbsp; By the time she looked up from the envelope addressed to her with no return address, he was already gone around the corner.<br><br>He laughed sadistically.&nbsp; "He will LEARN not to steal from me.&nbsp; One way or another," he muttered as he headed home, fully intent on seeing what else he could do to get back at his brother.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Life After Love (doreados and mkkdreams)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>mkkdreams</strong> on <strong>10-08-2009, 13:37:28</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Artemis' laugh rang through her hall as she watched the woman look through the photos.&nbsp; She thought it was a wonderful touch to the devious plan the man had constructed.&nbsp; The way he seemed to handle everything made her want to applaud his efforts.<br><br>When one of her maidens came in to interrupt her for some festival or other that her presence was requested for, she gave a sharp command that she wasn't in the mood and wasn't to be disturbed any further.&nbsp; Slamming the throne room doors behind the maiden she huffed in exasperation at having been pulled from her fun of observing the man who was so eager to wound others.<br><br>Biting her lip, she smiled and couldn't resist meddling.&nbsp; Although it wasn't exactly meddling.&nbsp; She was really just trying to be helpful.&nbsp; With a wave of her hand, she provided more for the man to use in his endeavors.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Life After Love (doreados and mkkdreams)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Pretty in Pink</strong> on <strong>11-08-2009, 04:05:28</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				When he arrived back at his home, and found ANOTHER envelope on his front step, he raised an eyebrow, and looked up.&nbsp; "Oookay.&nbsp; This isn't the sort of thing Minerva would pull.&nbsp; Ares wouldn't do it either.&nbsp; This isn't in his nature.&nbsp; Then who..."<br><br>He shook his head, and shrugged.&nbsp; Picking up the envelope, he took it inside, setting it on his desk as he headed to his den, pulling down the bottle of Jack he'd had beside him earlier that day.&nbsp; Pulling the top off, he took a long pull on the bottle, and then sighed.&nbsp; "Whoo.&nbsp; Good reward for a good day's work," he said, and then settled in.&nbsp; He knew his brother would likely be calling him shortly.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Life After Love (doreados and mkkdreams)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>mkkdreams</strong> on <strong>12-08-2009, 10:49:41</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Her eyes narrowed at his trying to give credit to someone else.&nbsp; How dare he?!&nbsp; Didn't he realize that it was Artemis?&nbsp; Well, of course he couldn't because he didn't know, but nobody else better step in and steal her thunder.&nbsp; Otherwise there'd be hell to pay.<br><br>She got up from the throne and flipped her gorgeous hair back over her shoulder and started to pace.&nbsp; Should she tell him who she was?&nbsp; Or let this little drama unfold?&nbsp; It was more interesting than anything else she had going on at the moment and revealing herself might just turn into a nightmare.&nbsp; He would expect her to take care of it and she'd lose her entertainment and have to get her hands dirty.<br><br>Artemis shook her head.&nbsp; No, she wouldn't do anything just yet.&nbsp; She knew that things were going to finally unravel since the man had set his plan into place and put his sibling in check.&nbsp; It was just a matter of what he'd do now.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Life After Love (doreados and mkkdreams)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Pretty in Pink</strong> on <strong>12-08-2009, 11:39:52</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				He opened a cabinet, revealing a sort of shrine, with small statuettes of each of the Greek gods and goddesses.&nbsp; He shook his head, lighting the incense sticks and cones that sat at the bottom.&nbsp; "I don't know which of you is helping me, but I appreciate it.&nbsp; I've got enough to ruin him forever now, and... well, I guess I just want to say thanks, and that I've got it from here," he said softly, and settled down into a chair.<br><br>What he DIDN'T hear was the front door of his house open, and his brother creeping through the house.&nbsp; But what he DID hear was the gunshot just before a searing pain shot through his torso, from spine to chest, and was fully aware of the spurt of blood that extinguished the incense and coated all of the statuettes.&nbsp; All of them, that is, except for one: Artemis.<br><br>He slumped down from the chair, sliding to the floor as he tried to turn.<br><br>His brother stood over him.&nbsp; "My revenge is complete, now.&nbsp; You ruined my life, and took what was mine by right as the oldest.&nbsp; Now, you have NOTHING, not even your life," he said, and turned on his heel, leaving Graham lying in a spreading pool of his own blood, coughing and gagging as he bled out.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Life After Love (doreados and mkkdreams)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>mkkdreams</strong> on <strong>12-08-2009, 11:51:53</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Artemis jerked at the sound of the gunshot, almost as if she herself had been hit by the bullet.&nbsp; Her breath hissed from between pursed lips as she saw what had happened.&nbsp; Nobody took what was hers.&nbsp; Nobody!<br><br>In a moment she was between the men, her anger evident in every action.&nbsp; She approached the brother and snarled.<br><br>"When one touches what is mine, one better be prepared to pay the price."<br><br>And with that she stole his breath, taking pure pleasure in seeing his eyes widen and his hands claw frantically at his throat.&nbsp; His face began to pale and lose color, his lips turning blue.<br><br>"I exact a high price.&nbsp; But I'm sure you won't mind."<br><br>She laughed breathily, but her attention was soon brought back to the other man when he coughed and gasped.&nbsp; Turning and moving to his side, she took him in her arms, for once her vanity forgotten as his blood covered her clothes.&nbsp; She looked into his handsome features and whispered words of reassurance.&nbsp; Finding the wound with one hand, she covered it and poured her power into the man, stopping the bleeding.&nbsp; She gave him enough to be able to keep him with the living.&nbsp; And then looked at the brother once more.<br><br>In the throes of death, he fell to his knees and then bucked against the floor.&nbsp; She watched until he was well and truly dead, holding the man in her arms to show him.<br><br>"NOW it is complete.&nbsp; And he is the one with nothing."<br><br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Life After Love (doreados and mkkdreams)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Pretty in Pink</strong> on <strong>12-08-2009, 12:39:58</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Graham didn't really react when she flashed in, but his eyes flickered open again when she started healing his wound.&nbsp; He moaned softly, and shuddered, his body shaking slightly.&nbsp; He groaned, and then when she lifted him up, he looked on his brother's cold corpse, and then up at the woman that held him.<br><br>His eyes narrowed for a moment, and strained to focus on her face.&nbsp; When they finally did, they widened, and he took a shocked breath.&nbsp; "Ar... Artemis," he murmured, his voice soft and reverent.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Life After Love (doreados and mkkdreams)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>mkkdreams</strong> on <strong>12-08-2009, 12:53:20</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				She smiled at having been recognized and touched the man's face in a caress.<br><br>"That's right, Graham.&nbsp; It's me."<br><br>When he tried to open his mouth to speak again, she shook her head and placed a finger over his lips.<br><br>"Shhh... you've suffered a great wound.&nbsp; Don't try to talk right now.&nbsp; There'll be more than enough time for talking later."<br><br>Lifting him easily in her arms, she carried him to his bed and laid him out, then carefully rolled him over to take stock of the damage done.&nbsp; She bit her lip to stifle the growl at the gaping wound that had severed his spine.&nbsp; Without her help, he wouldn't have lived.&nbsp; And if she didn't help him now, he would never walk again.<br><br>She spoke softly, telling him that it would hurt as the nerves regenerated beneath the bone and sinew, but that she needed to do it.&nbsp; She tried to make him as comfortable as possible, but wouldn't send him into unconsciousness because if she lost him, that would be the end of it all.<br><br>Laying a hand over the wound, she began to heal him, pouring her energy into him and giving of herself.&nbsp; It wasn't like her to do things without receiving something in return, but for this man, she was willing to take a chance.&nbsp; She didn't understand why, but the fact that he knew her and and was thankful for the help, touched her somewhere inside.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Life After Love (doreados and mkkdreams)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Pretty in Pink</strong> on <strong>12-08-2009, 13:06:26</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				He stopped when she placed her finger over his mouth, and simply looked up at her, and when she picked him up and he went completely limp, his eyes widened, and panic started to set in.&nbsp; <em>My spine's been severed!</em> he thought, and his eyes started to tear up.<br><br>When she laid him out on his bed, he shivered slightly, his eyes closing as he attempted to take stock of his situation.&nbsp; His brother was dead, his spine was severed, and Artemis, goddess of the hunt, was here, in his bedroom, HELPING HIM.<br><br>When she started pouring her power into him, his eyes widened, and he cried out, pain and loss clear in his wordless scream.&nbsp; He shuddered, and his eyes closed as he fought unconsciousness.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Life After Love (doreados and mkkdreams)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>mkkdreams</strong> on <strong>12-08-2009, 13:14:28</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				The cry torn from his throat pulled at her.&nbsp; She could tell that he was trying his best to be as stoic as possible and that the pain was excruciating.&nbsp; Pain she was causing.&nbsp; She poured more of her energy into healing him, making the process as quick as possible.<br><br>When it was finally done, they were both breathing hard and Artemis stood, swaying.&nbsp; She ran a shaky hand through her hair and looked down at Graham.&nbsp; He was fully healed now.&nbsp; All that remained of the wound was a small scar.<br><br>"It's done now, Graham."<br><br>Her voice came out hoarse and was tired.&nbsp; She took a step towards the bathroom, noticing finally that she was covered in blood and wanting to wash it off, and felt her knees start to give out.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Life After Love (doreados and mkkdreams)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Pretty in Pink</strong> on <strong>12-08-2009, 13:20:23</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Exhibiting a remarkably fast recovery, Graham was off the bed, on his feet, and across the room before she fell very far, catching her in his arms, even though this bore them both down to their knees.&nbsp; He froze for a moment, and a muttered "Sorry" came from his mouth as he pulled back.<br><br>He looked down at the floor for a moment, still a little short of breath, before looking up into her eyes.&nbsp; "Thank you for... for healing me," he said quietly, his eyes darting away from hers.<br><br>He lifted her carefully back to her feet, and helped her into the bathroom, offering her a towel and washcloth.&nbsp; "I'm... I'm sorry you got my blood all over you," he said foolishly, kicking himself the whole while.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Life After Love (doreados and mkkdreams)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>mkkdreams</strong> on <strong>12-08-2009, 13:30:12</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				She was caught off guard by his help, but she didn't mind it.&nbsp; At his thanks, she merely nodded, not sure of what to say because this wasn't something she did on a normal basis.&nbsp; She wasn't a superhero for the gods sake, she was a goddess!<br><br>He set her on the edge of the tub and she didn't know what to make of this whole scene.&nbsp; She wanted to snort in laughter at all of it because this whole mortal way of living was so intriguing.&nbsp; Graham helped her to clean up and his touch was very tender.<br><br>His uncertainty and shyness however, were a surprise.&nbsp; She wondered what had happened to the sure and confident man she'd watched from her throne.&nbsp; Artemis arched a brow and wondered if by chance she'd made a mistake in judgement after all.<br><br>"It's okay.&nbsp; Saving you was a piece of pie.&nbsp; It was no big bargain at all."<br><br>She was exasperated with him.&nbsp; It really wasn't any trouble for her to save him.&nbsp; Did she have to remind him that she was a goddess?
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Life After Love (doreados and mkkdreams)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Pretty in Pink</strong> on <strong>12-08-2009, 22:24:51</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				He winced slightly for a moment at how foolish he had acted, and then shook his head, taking a few deep breaths.&nbsp; Finally, he looked up, his eyes meeting hers.&nbsp; "First off, I'm going to assume that it was you that was helping me before.&nbsp; And I wanted to say thank you for helping me get my revenge on my brother."<br><br>He took another deep breath, and then shook his head.&nbsp; "And I also wanted to apologize for what I said just before my brother decided to shoot me.&nbsp; I know that when you choose to help someone, you like to see it through the end."&nbsp; He shook his head.&nbsp; "I never meant to insult you," he said, his voice firm and clear now.<br><br>He smiled.&nbsp; "Though I never imagined having him strangled by a goddess.&nbsp; Well, I suppose I did, but I never thought it could actually happen."
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Life After Love (doreados and mkkdreams)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>mkkdreams</strong> on <strong>13-08-2009, 13:48:36</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Artemis arched a brow as a small smile curved her lips.&nbsp; Now this was a little more like it.&nbsp; He seemed to understand just who she was and what she could do.&nbsp; It'd been a while since she'd found someone who was able to appreciate her abilities.<br><br>She nodded her head and brushed the backs of her knuckles across his cheek.<br><br>"It was I that helped you.&nbsp; And you are welcome.&nbsp; Let's just say... you caught my interest."<br><br>She let him finish cleaning her hands and then stood.&nbsp; She was still a little shaky from the energy drain, but there was no way she would remain in her soiled clothes.&nbsp; With a mere thought she was changed into something fitting for the times and rather elegant.&nbsp; The cream of the top played up her red tresses perfectly and the dark leather pants fit her form like a glove.<br><br>"Much better."
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Life After Love (doreados and mkkdreams)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Pretty in Pink</strong> on <strong>13-08-2009, 13:59:54</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				He twitched a moment when her knuckles brushed against his cheek, and then smiled as she just poofed into new clothes.&nbsp; He nodded, and sighed.&nbsp; "I can't say I understand how I -- out of all the people that COULD have caught your interest -- caught your attention.&nbsp; But I must say, I appreciate everything you've done for me," he said, and then looked around.<br><br>"Uhm... I don't suppose you eat normal, mortal food, do you?" he said, trying to be polite.&nbsp; Of course, he was also trying to distract himself from the fact that her leather pants showed off all her curves, and keep from following a train of thought that would likely end with him in the same state as his brother.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Life After Love (doreados and mkkdreams)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>mkkdreams</strong> on <strong>13-08-2009, 14:04:47</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				She tilted her head let her gaze roam over him entirely.&nbsp; How interesting this man was.&nbsp; He had nearly been killed and yet rather than worry about himself, he wanted to cater to her.&nbsp; She couldn't stop from smiling.&nbsp; He was indeed interesting.<br><br>"Of course I took interest in you.&nbsp; It seems that whatever my reasons, it was a good thing for you hmmm?&nbsp; Otherwise you'd be dead as a doorbell right now wouldn't you?"<br><br>Running a hand through her hair to push it back from her face, she nodded and started for the door.<br><br>"And your offer of food is very kind.&nbsp; I wouldn't mind in the least.&nbsp; On the condition that you don't take exception to my providing whatever it is we eat.&nbsp; Just say what you'd like and that's what you shall have."<br><br>She didn't want him to know that she didn't trust him to try to poison her or anything of the sort.&nbsp; Which would still be highly unlikely, but she wasn't one to take any chances with a mortal.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Life After Love (doreados and mkkdreams)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Pretty in Pink</strong> on <strong>13-08-2009, 14:12:25</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				He raised an eyebrow, and then shook his head with a laugh, following behind her.&nbsp; "Hmm.&nbsp; Well, this is going to come as a shock for you.&nbsp; But then, considering you took an interest in me, probably not.&nbsp; Grilled chicken Caesar salad, light on the dressing."<br><br>He shook his head.&nbsp; He led the way into the kitchen, pulling out a chair for her before moving over to his own chair, settling into it easily.&nbsp; He looked around the kitchen, shaking his head.&nbsp; "I'm going to have to leave this house.&nbsp; Get a new place.&nbsp; I'm not going to be able to live with this," he said, and then glanced over at the cupboard with his statuettes, and winced.&nbsp; "And those will have to be cleaned," he said. 
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Life After Love (doreados and mkkdreams)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>mkkdreams</strong> on <strong>13-08-2009, 14:39:58</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				She didn't understand what he was talking about.&nbsp; The place was a little small for her taste, but it was nice.&nbsp; It could use some remodeling, but that was just her preference.&nbsp; She shrugged and figured if that's what he wanted to do, he could.<br><br>She waved a hand over the table and created the salad he requested and then created a macchiato for herself.&nbsp; She sipped and listened, looking when he indicated the statuettes.&nbsp; And she smiled.&nbsp; How could she not?&nbsp; Hers was the only one that didn't need cleaning.&nbsp; It was a vain thing, but she was Artemis after all.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Life After Love (doreados and mkkdreams)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Pretty in Pink</strong> on <strong>13-08-2009, 14:50:56</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				He noticed her gaze, and glanced over, and then it dawned on him.&nbsp; "You were trying to give me a sign, weren't you?" he said, looking from her pristine statuette to her and back again.&nbsp; "You were trying to show me that you were watching over me."<br><br>He jumped when the phone rang, and then swore.&nbsp; "Dammit.&nbsp; I'm WAY too jumpy now," he said, moving over to pick up the phone, cradling it between his shoulder and ear.&nbsp; "Hello?&nbsp; Oh, hi.&nbsp; You what?&nbsp; You got some photos of my brother?&nbsp; Oh, really?&nbsp; Well, I'm sorry, but I've moved on," he said, grinning with the grin of someone who has seen the last piece of their plan fall into place.&nbsp; He winced, and held the phone away from his ear.&nbsp; Even ARTEMIS could hear what was being said now.<br><br>"Please, Graham! Don't do this!&nbsp; I... I made a mistake!&nbsp; He promised me money, jewelry, clothes... a car... Please, I really do love you!"<br><br>He shook his head, and nodded at Artemis, a devious smile on his face.&nbsp; "Yeah, sorry to hear that.&nbsp; But unfortunately for you, I'm over you.&nbsp; So you can find some other shoulder to cry on, some other dick to rebound to.&nbsp; Because I'm not going to be it," he said, and then hung up.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Life After Love (doreados and mkkdreams)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>mkkdreams</strong> on <strong>17-08-2009, 21:13:03</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Of course Artemis took credit for what happened with the statuettes.&nbsp; She hadn't actually had a hand in it, but it just went to show that even the fates agreed with what she had done.&nbsp; She smiled and brushed back her hair, just about to nod when the phone rang.&nbsp; Graham's jumpiness made her arch a brow.&nbsp; She couldn't understand what he had to worry about.&nbsp; She was there after all.<br><br>She watched him speak on the phone and couldn't stop from smiling as he smirked and mentioned the photos she had helped him with.&nbsp; But then he pulled the phone away and she could hear the woman's voice on the other end.&nbsp; A look of disgust crossed her features.&nbsp; The woman deserved everything she had gotten if she was such a twit where she resorted to groveling to fix things.<br><br>Artemis returned Graham's nod and if he hadn't hung up when he did, she would have ended the call herself.&nbsp; She smiled and went to stand beside him, lightly placing a hand on his shoulder.<br><br>"I take it she was the one responsible for all of this?"
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Life After Love (doreados and mkkdreams)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Pretty in Pink</strong> on <strong>18-08-2009, 00:56:16</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				He laughed sadistically.&nbsp; "Yeah, that was her.&nbsp; Crying to me about how she made a mistake, how she wants me back.&nbsp; What, so she can just jump at the NEXT guy that comes along and offers her money and jewels?&nbsp; I... don't... think so.&nbsp; Burn me once, shame on you.&nbsp; Burn me twice, shame on me," he said, quoting an old adage.<br><br>"She burned me once, and she's NOT going to do so again," he said softly, leaning forward to take another bite of his salad.&nbsp; "She can burn someone else.&nbsp; And to be honest?&nbsp; It would seem a little vindictive to most people, but according to the stories, you'll understand this," he said, looking up at her.&nbsp; "I hope he burns her first."
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Life After Love (doreados and mkkdreams)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>mkkdreams</strong> on <strong>21-08-2009, 10:54:38</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				At his mention of burning the girl, Artemis sat up straighter and smiled.&nbsp; She would be more than glad to do it for him if he wanted.&nbsp; That gleam was back in his eye and she had to admit that she liked it.&nbsp; That she wouldn't mind getting her hands dirty again if it kept that look there.<br><br>She bat her eyes and ran her tongue over her teeth.<br><br>"That can be arranged if you want."<br><br>She looked up at Graham and smiled sweetly, wondering if he would give in and let her have a little fun with the girl.&nbsp; After all, she could use the excitement.&nbsp; And if it was in an attempt to help another mortal, well then the other gods couldn't get THAT upset now could they?
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Life After Love (doreados and mkkdreams)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Pretty in Pink</strong> on <strong>21-08-2009, 11:26:28</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				He raised an eyebrow, and then shrugged.&nbsp; "Sure.&nbsp; I'd like to see her suffer like I did.&nbsp; She doesn't really know what a broken heart is," he said quietly.&nbsp; "I want to see her SQUIRM," he said, shaking his head.<br><br>He sighed, and grunted.&nbsp; "You wouldn't happen to be able to spare some of that ambrosia or whatever it is, would you?&nbsp; I'm sicking of living on EARTH.&nbsp; Too much crime and other shit going on.&nbsp; I get a little tired of it all, you know?" he said, leaning back in his chair.<br><br>"Just once, I'd like to know what it's like to live forever.&nbsp; To have been able to see all the ages of the world go by...&nbsp; Now THAT would be something interesting."
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Life After Love (doreados and mkkdreams)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>mkkdreams</strong> on <strong>21-08-2009, 12:41:34</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				She rubbed her hands together at his mention of wanting to see the girl suffer.&nbsp; But she paused when he said he wanted to have her experience a broken heart.&nbsp; That wasn't exactly her thing.&nbsp; Hmmm... she might have to rethink that whole idea.<br><br>Artemis jerked out of her reverie when he asked to leave the mortal world.&nbsp; He wanted to go live with the gods?&nbsp; Was the man crazy after all?&nbsp; She drummed her fingers on the table and thought for a little.&nbsp; What could it hurt to take the mortal to see her temple for once.&nbsp; After all, she did it with Acheron.&nbsp; The thought of that name sealed the deal for her.&nbsp; There was no way she was going to let him cloud her thoughts again, the bastard.<br><br>"Sure.&nbsp; I mean, I can't make you immortal or anything, but I can take you away from this world for a little bit.&nbsp; If that's what you want to do.&nbsp; But none of the other gods can know you're there so you'll only be allowed in my temple."
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Life After Love (doreados and mkkdreams)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Pretty in Pink</strong> on <strong>25-08-2009, 01:42:51</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				He grinned, knowing she probably thought he was crazy because of his request.&nbsp; But he shook his head.&nbsp; "I'm not crazy, if that's what you're thinking.&nbsp; Trust me.&nbsp; It's always been a fantasy of mine, so to speak, to be able to live up there on Mount Olympus."&nbsp; He shrugged.&nbsp; "Course, I know that's technically not possible," he said, and looked like he was about to say something else, when she offered to take him away with her to her temple.<br><br>"You serious?&nbsp; You can do that?&nbsp; Ah, who am I kidding.&nbsp; Course you can.&nbsp; You're a GODDESS with a temple and everything."&nbsp; He shrugged.&nbsp; "That's fine with me.&nbsp; Long as I've got room to walk around so my legs don't cramp up on me," he said.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Life After Love (doreados and mkkdreams)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>mkkdreams</strong> on <strong>25-08-2009, 13:07:25</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				She arched a brow, ready to reprimand him when he caught himself and mentioned her being a goddess.&nbsp; That made her smile and primp at her hair.&nbsp; Good.&nbsp; The fact that he remembered his place and hers was a plus for him.<br><br>"Of course I'm serious.&nbsp; I don't just offer for any human to come with me."<br><br>She stood and with a wave of her hand, cleared the table of their remaining meal and crossed to Graham's side, leaning against the table top with a slender hand.<br><br>"And I'll remember what you said, Graham.&nbsp; If you start to complain, I'll just... remind you."<br><br>Artemis didn't know why she was so willing to take him with her.&nbsp; On second thought, she knew why.&nbsp; And his name would be stricken from her vocabulary.&nbsp; She'd given him the world and he'd been too oblivious to notice.&nbsp; That she'd loved him and did what she could to make him happy.&nbsp; But it just hadn't been enough.&nbsp; Well no more would she let him have any hold over her.&nbsp; She was a goddess, just like Graham said.<br><br>She licked at her lips, thinking that having a new pet who would know exactly where he stood could be useful.<br><br>"This may feel a bit strange, but don't worry.&nbsp; It's supposed to happen."<br><br>She didn't give him any more chance to speak, placing her hand on his shoulder and transporting them both to her palace on Olympus.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Life After Love (doreados and mkkdreams)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Pretty in Pink</strong> on <strong>12-09-2009, 01:53:44</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				He nodded, standing slowly, brushing a flake of dried blood from his shirt.&nbsp; He nodded.&nbsp; "Don't worry, I won't forget," he said, nodding slightly.&nbsp; He started to say something, and then when her hand hit his shoulder, his face clenched, his eyes going wide as there was a strange jerking sensation behind his belly button, and then he collapsed to his knees, shaking his head softly.<br><br>"Okay.&nbsp; THAT was weird," he said, and then fell silent as he looked around himself, taking in their new surroundings with a low whistle.&nbsp; "You live here?&nbsp; That's gotta be some fun," he said, looking at some of the things around him.&nbsp; The place was decorated lavishly, that was definitely apparent.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Life After Love (doreados and mkkdreams)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>mkkdreams</strong> on <strong>14-09-2009, 12:48:45</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				She shrugged as he tried to collect himself.<br><br>"Told you."<br><br>When he got up, she let him look around.&nbsp; While she'd lived there forever, anytime she brought company, she liked to show off.&nbsp; It was a perk of being a goddess.<br><br>The place she called home was decorated with only beautiful things.&nbsp; Huge archways spanned the halls, looking out onto the expanse of Olympus.&nbsp; Billowing sheers draped along the arches, softening the look and giving the entire entryway a dreamy feeling.<br><br>Brushing her hair back, she smiled.<br><br>"Well if you think this is great, just wait till you see the rest of it."<br><br>She started past him towards one of her sitting rooms when she halted, causing him to almost run into her. <br><br>"Oh, I forgot.&nbsp; You just simply cannot run around here looking like that."<br><br>With a flick of her hand she had him dressed in luxurious robes.<br><br>"Oops, I can't very well be seen in this get up either."<br><br>She waved her hand once more and was dressed in her traditional garb, the skirts flowing to fall around her feet in a pool.&nbsp; The shape of the sheath fitted her figure to show her every curve and the color of it, gave hint to what her body looked like beneath the material as it played with the shadows of her body.<br><br>"Much better.&nbsp; Shall we?"
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Life After Love (doreados and mkkdreams)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>mkkdreams</strong> on <strong>02-10-2009, 01:56:49</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<strong>-------------------ON HOLD INDEFINITELY-------------------------------</strong>
			</dd>
		</dl>
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