Two Worlds (TAG! Sorrow.)

Subject: Two Worlds (TAG! Sorrow.) Thu Feb 28, 2013 6:29 pm

Gail finally found some work, but in the least likely of places. The one person who willingly hired her was Madam Puddifoot. Knowing who Gail was, the Madam had still taken her in with open arms. Gail was incredibly grateful, but that didn't mean she enjoyed the overpowering scent of spices and herbs that clung to the place like a bad habit. The moment Gail's shift was over, she burst out onto the streets, catching her first breath of fresh air since starting her day. After that, Gail wanted nothing more than to take a walk for as long as it took for her feet to circle back down to the Hog's head.

Subject: Re: Two Worlds (TAG! Sorrow.) Thu Feb 28, 2013 6:48 pm

It began as a soft twitch, carried by the wind. For Sorrow, who had gotten quite used to being able to detect a human's presence, these tremors felt odd at first; and yet, it seemed as if they casually settled in his mind, awakening an old memory. A moment and he could see the images clearly, fresh as they had been nearly ten years ago. Well.

He had thought to enjoy a silent walk, away from the noisy classroom. Of all his students, he was not sure if it were the younger ones or the older ones he had more difficulty calming down. Sorrow found he did not mind it nearly as much as when attending Hogwarts as a student. They were just kids, after all. They needed to be loud sometimes. So he'd given them enough homework to complain about next time.

What he had not predicted, setting out on this perfectly planned walk of his, that it would bring more excitement than the everyday Herbology class. Pausing in his step, Sorrow took a moment to listen to the whispering of the wind. It was there, all right. He had not imagined it. Moving forward again, his pace quickening just a tiny bit, Sorrow felt his lip tug into a small smile.

Subject: Re: Two Worlds (TAG! Sorrow.) Thu Feb 28, 2013 7:15 pm

When the stench of tea seemed to finally fade, her senses were slapped with another. She stopped abruptly in her tracks, scratching her nose and giving the sky a frown. There were too many other things mixing in with whatever it was to distinguish it, but she knew it was not a familiar scent. More like stench.

She started walking again, this time turning 'round the corner to seek out the source. In Hogsmeade, she had been quick to learn of everything in her surroundings; the sweet wafts of fresh baking from open windows of houses, the not so sweet smells of dirty alleyways where trash was often left during the week, and then of course the absolutely horrid smell that came from the Hog's head, where she had been 'fortunate' enough to stay at.

This was much different, though. Trying to identify it was futile. Thinking back, she remembered the first time she'd met her kin, the family she'd become a part of and raced through the forest alongside. Everything about them, even their scent felt right. This however, felt wrong. So she reacted as any proper wolf would, and sought out this intruder. She quickly crossed an alleyway to catch up with the creature, and when she turned the next corner, she was face to face with him. She was almost shocked to see he was only a human, she almost thought she'd misjudged the tracks, but one second in front of him had that unfamiliar scent wafting into her face, clawing out her senses just from being there.

The look of confusion was written plainly across her face, so she decided to simply say, "Hello."

Subject: Re: Two Worlds (TAG! Sorrow.) Thu Feb 28, 2013 7:32 pm

Sorrow did not have much experience with werewolves. Three years ago, Phantom had made him sharpen out his senses, working with one of the creatures. Benefit was mutual as the werewolf, the seventeen-year-old Ylva, learned to recognize a vampire as Sorrow did a werewolf. Years before that, Sorrow knew the aura of another wolf. Identifying their presence was not difficult with a little practise, but Sorrow never learned to tell one apart from another; which was why his initial enthusiasm faded slightly at the sight of an unfamiliar face.

He comforted himself with the thought that she looked as confused as he felt.

“Afternoon,” he voiced a polite response to her greeting.

Subject: Re: Two Worlds (TAG! Sorrow.) Thu Feb 28, 2013 7:50 pm

There was a pause, as she awkwardly stared at him, unsure of her next step. She'd flung herself out into the open so willingly, she hadn't exactly thought much on her next step. For starters, she moved back, giving him a more comfortable distance. Then, she abruptly held her hand out to him, as though she had completely forgotten her manners. She was not acting as one normally would after almost bulldozing a man down, but nor was this a normal situation. Thus, she brushed it aside. "Rimmell. Eh, Gail. And you are?"

There wasn't much to go off of, just taking in his appearance. He stood up straight, did that count? What did that tell her? He was raised by strict folk? Not exactly a lot to go off of. No, the only way she'd unveil the mystery is by doing what Miss Rimmell did naturally. Be friendly.

Subject: Re: Two Worlds (TAG! Sorrow.) Thu Feb 28, 2013 8:07 pm

Sorrow’s brow lifted slightly in the pause that followed; then, just as she moved, Sorrow did his own little step backwards. The hand that shot out hung limply in the air for a moment, before he decided to take it. The corner of his lip once again twitched, this time into what could have been an amused smile.

“Pleased to meet you,” Sorrow decided, trying to shake off the uncomfortable awareness of how cold his hand must have felt against her own. This was one of the reasons why Sorrow, why any vampire, usually avoided contact at first introduction. Gail was not human, however; at least, not entirely so. Somehow, that fact alone brought unexpected comfort.

Sorrow let go of her hand, unable to completely ignore how he usually presented himself; a handshake was progress, yet still he bowed his head. “I go by the name of Grace,” he said. “And my given name is Sorrow.”

Subject: Re: Two Worlds (TAG! Sorrow.) Thu Feb 28, 2013 8:24 pm

The unexpected chill from the handshake caused her to look at him with further curiosity, as he officially introduced himself. That clue alone was enough to lead Gail's mind on the right path, but still, she had no fear. What could be scarier than a woman who turns wolf every full moon, after all?

"Pardon my blunt manners, but you're... different, from other people, aren't you?" She smiled as she asked, fearing he would take it the wrong way, "It's okay I'm different too." She had noted his particularly polite and stoic manners, and immediately compared them to her own. She had no intention of matching his however. She was who she was and there was no pretending otherwise. Straightforward was her way of life, after all.

She was quite delighted at the idea of someone else being like her; not a wolf of course, but not like normal people. And neither the name 'Sorrow' nor 'Grace' was something of the normal sort. Since there was so far no proof against Gail's suspicions, she could only assume she was right until proven wrong. The likelihood of the situation put a wide grin on her face, especially since this Sorrow didn't seem to be the threatening sort.

Subject: Re: Two Worlds (TAG! Sorrow.) Thu Feb 28, 2013 8:48 pm

“So I am,” Sorrow gave a nod, his eyes now searching hers. Her straightforwardness delighted him, as did her prompt acceptance; there was no need for an excuse or an explanation. It was apparent in the air around them as well; she posed no threat, and Sorrow meant her no harm.

Gail Rimmell. He ought to remember that name.

“I know what you are,” he clarified. “As for me, I belong to a vampire clan. Miss Rimmell, I would love to learn more about you.” That last part, Sorrow voiced without thought. It was the truth, but perhaps he could have worded it better; perhaps all that time with his students had made him a little less tactful.

“That is,” he promptly corrected himself, “if you would walk with me, I would like to ask you a thing or two.” The shadows grew longer with the setting sun; and wind danced through the streets, carrying through the stench of trash. Sorrow thought he could hear it murmuring, perhaps laughing softly.

Subject: Re: Two Worlds (TAG! Sorrow.) Thu Feb 28, 2013 9:20 pm

This inclination had been the first sign that he had any interest in her at all, and it came across as surprising to her, if not alarming. He'd had an odd choice of words, to top it off. She decided to ignore it however, more than willing to chat with such a curious person. He had mentioned he was in a vampire clan, perhaps he would have some important things to say. And aside from work at the Tea Shop, she hadn't had much time for chitchat since arriving anyway.

So, the young, and rather confident wolf, folded her arms behind her back, and stepped over to his side, showing acceptance of the idea of him and his interesting questions. Perhaps he was simply as curious about what she was, as she was curious about what he was. If that were the case, perhaps she would learn more about this well-mannered vampire by talking to him.

"Ask away, good sir." She grinned, thinking her imitation of his mannerisms was rather amusing.

Subject: Re: Two Worlds (TAG! Sorrow.) Thu Feb 28, 2013 9:34 pm

The vampire motioned forward, resuming the earlier, however aimless walk; this time with a companion by his side. Quite a couple of questions came to mind, though one seemed more important than the others. Yes, Sorrow did not think Gail posed any threat; to him or to the students of Hogwarts. But perhaps it was the slight sense of obligation, because he was an adult and a professor at the said school. He had to ask. “May I, then? Would you mind telling me what brought you to Hogsmeade?”

Subject: Re: Two Worlds (TAG! Sorrow.) Thu Feb 28, 2013 10:24 pm

She tilted her head as she followed his lead, matching his pace, "The news. The Daily Prophet is awfully negative lately. Broomsticks being set on fire, Dementors..." She glanced around, a manner of defiance lingering in her stature before she added, "Death Eaters," She then returned her attention to the ever polite Mr. Grace, smiling once more, "I don't like bad news. I thought it best to come here, and see things for myself. Perhaps make a difference while I'm at it as well."

She had immediately put her trust into this Vampire. There was hardly even a hint of hesitation in sharing her plans with him, like confiding in him some master plot she had schemed. It was who she was. She wasn't normal, and she accepted that. And for that very reason she thought it was her responsibility to do what she could for those less combat worthy than she.

It was the same situation back in Scandinavia. Her pack was watched over by the foreign Ministry, not just to keep them from harming innocent, but also so the pack could help the Ministry catch criminals, people who want nothing more than to hurt other people. This notion was something Gail took as a sign for where her road would lead. It gave people like her purpose, to be able to help by protecting good people from the bad. The people of Hogsmeade, Gail was not certain, were good people.

Subject: Re: Two Worlds (TAG! Sorrow.) Thu Feb 28, 2013 10:43 pm

Sorrow took a moment of silence; not because he needed to think her words over, but because he felt that they did not require further questioning. “I see,” he said, and perhaps truly understood. Gail was there to take on the role of a protector; how very brave of her. How very kind. “Is it only you?”

Good intentions aside, Sorrow felt a prickle of worry; it would be dangerous if she was indeed alone. He had no doubt of her skill, but say the Death Eaters showed in numbers. How many would she be able to fight on her own? “That will not do,” Sorrow spoke before she could reply. He could sense no other werewolves near. “Not at all, Miss Rimmell. You may protect the people, but who will protect you?”

Subject: Re: Two Worlds (TAG! Sorrow.) Thu Feb 28, 2013 11:30 pm

Her confidence faltered as she looked at the man. Sure, she had realized there were flaws in such a plan, but she had not yet conjured an answer for the problem. "Well..." She paused then gave an uncertain shrug, "It's a risk I was aware of when I decided on coming here. I cannot do much about it."

"And now that I have answered your question, I believe its fair for you to answer mine. Are you from around here? I haven't come across you before, though I will admit, I've only been here for a couple days now." By 'hadn't come across' she meant she hadn't caught his scent until now. She felt no need to be specific though, he seemed bright enough to be spared the details.

Subject: Re: Two Worlds (TAG! Sorrow.) Fri Mar 01, 2013 12:01 am

No, Sorrow supposed not. Then, perhaps he could offer to come to aid when needed. After all, he would never be far from Hogsmeade. “As you say. I teach Herbology at Hogwarts and, as such, the castle is my current residence.” He paused, casting a glance at the shadows as they passed a narrow alleyway. “I should be able to reach you from there,” he said, pondering the thought. “Not directly, but through the shadows.”

“Forgive me; perhaps the subject is a bit difficult for a first meeting.” It just felt natural to want to protect someone – well, someone different. The delicate thread and the careful line that marked them, as not completely or not at all human. It was both strange and thrilling.

Subject: Re: Two Worlds (TAG! Sorrow.) Fri Mar 01, 2013 12:48 am

"Shadows?" She stopped to ponder upon the alleyway that he had looked upon, as though his doppelganger would suddenly jump out at her if she didn't pay close enough attention. At the change of subject however, her attention was grabbed once more.

"Hardly! I feel grateful that a Professor of Hogwarts would offer his assistance." She gave a nod and smile as she caught up with him with a single trot. "I suppose I don't know much about vampires after all. You at least drink blood right? If not I'd like to ask Hogwarts for a refund of my time," she chuckled.

Subject: Re: Two Worlds (TAG! Sorrow.) Fri Mar 01, 2013 12:59 am

His eyes may have darkened, Sorrow made no show of it. He had his reasons for rising against the Death Eaters, after all. In the past, perhaps, he would have tried to stay neutral in the war; now it seemed like a lifetime ago, a thought of a foolish child.

“Yes,” Sorrow confirmed shortly. “And I know very little about werewolves. Do you form clans through bloodlines? Or do you prefer to stay in smaller families; packs, I suppose you would call them?”

Subject: Re: Two Worlds (TAG! Sorrow.) Fri Mar 01, 2013 1:29 am

She crossed her arms, staring at the ground as they continued down the street, "I've never really thought about it. Some of us form packs I suppose so we feel apart of something. Makes the full moon less lonely. As far as I know my kind don't typically try to pass on the trait. I only became one by accident, for instance."

She shrugged, "And so far every wolf I've met had a similar experience."

Subject: Re: Two Worlds (TAG! Sorrow.) Fri Mar 01, 2013 1:17 pm

“I suppose that makes sense,” Sorrow nodded. Ylva had been a child of a werewolf couple, but such things were rare; and Sorrow himself had no knowledge of another such case.

“Do you know anything about the origin of you kin?” This interested him especially. Among the myths he read as a child, he remembered mention of King Lycaon. He wondered if there was truth to that story, as he never came upon record of the first werewolf; furthermore, there were records of bite victims and claims that they only turned after direct blood contact with the infected saliva, but none ever mentioned how the first werewolf came into being. It was a thought to ponder, certainly.

Subject: Re: Two Worlds (TAG! Sorrow.) Fri Mar 01, 2013 3:49 pm

Gail frowned, "What, like the first werewolf?" She looked up and itched her arm in thought for a moment. "I never was much of a History nut- not that there's anything wrong with it. Just... wondering where this came from, beyond my father, is not something I'm all that worried about." She looked over at Sorrow, "He died shortly after the accident." She was pained to say it, but she felt that it was okay to entrust her past to this Professor. It was already an event she had accepted, something her pack had helped her through, and it was what supported her resolve for being here now.

"I guess when it comes down to it, that's why I'm here. More and more people will lose their loved ones if the Death Eaters continue to lay waste to Hogsmeade." Her nose twitched as something caught her attention farther down the road, but she continued speaking, "I just don't want anyone to go through what I've gone through, if I can help it. I obviously can't save the world, but I can protect this village."

Once she realized she had strayed way off from his question, she grew quiet for awhile. Then, she smiled and said, "Sorry, I've strayed off pretty far haven't I?" She laughed, then cocked her head to the side, "Since you've offered your help, how 'bout I offer mine? You know, if the school's ever in trouble, or whatever else."

Subject: Re: Two Worlds (TAG! Sorrow.) Fri Mar 01, 2013 4:58 pm

Sorrow listened, silently processing the given information. If he was surprised by the revelation that Gail’s ability came from her father, and not quite in the form of a welcome gift, he made no notion of it. The event did not seem to have left deep emotional scars on the she-wolf; she was up and running, determined to live and live as she chose. Perhaps she bore marks on her skin. Sorrow could not see them, but he supposed they must be there. A reminder, rather than a caged past. And, Sorrow realized, the way she spoke nearly convinced him that she could indeed do it. Reach any goal that she set for herself.

“Not at all. I must admit, I admire your resolve.” He gave a slow nod, thankful of her offer. “Headmistress Naer should be pleased to have you at arm’s reach. I can inform her of your status here; and I would be most honoured to have you by my side, if ever the need arises.”

Subject: Re: Two Worlds (TAG! Sorrow.) Fri Mar 01, 2013 6:42 pm

"You're very kind," Gail replied with a smile, "And thank you." It had been awhile since Gail had made new friends since leaving Scandinavia. It made her happy to have met such a one as Sorrow. "I'm happy to help in what little way I can. And hopefully, more will join me in my efforts. I do not support any group; Death Eaters, the Ministry... What I do support, however, are people who cannot support themselves."

She stopped, turning to Sorrow and saying, "I am glad we met the way we did. Sorrow, was it? Sorrow Grace. I'll remember that." She said with a grateful nod.

Subject: Re: Two Worlds (TAG! Sorrow.) Fri Mar 01, 2013 9:03 pm

His own lips curled into a gentle smile. “Thank you, Miss Rimmell. You have made my walk far more pleasant.” Sorrow knew a lot of people; human, vampire or otherwise. But those he truly called friends, he could probably count on the fingers of one hand. Somehow, he had a feeling that this young woman would one day be among them.

“To follow such belief is noble. Your heart is strong, Miss Rimmell. If anyone can protect these people, then it is you.” Pausing in his step, he indicated a different direction. Further down the street there was the Three Broomsticks Inn. “Would you join me for a cup of tea?”

Subject: Re: Two Worlds (TAG! Sorrow.) Fri Mar 01, 2013 9:15 pm

She laughed, "Tea? No. Joining you, however, I'd happily oblige." She nodded apologetically, "Tea tastes like weird, flavored water, and I've been working at Madam Puddifoot's all day anyways. I wouldn't mind a butter-beer though."

Upon the thought of butter-beer, she took the lead this time, heading down the street where he had indicated. She looked over her shoulder back at him and asked, "What's your Headmistress like anywho? I've heard a lot about her, but," She shrugged, looking forward again. Most of what she'd heard came from the Prophet, and the only thing that thing was reliable for was the Quidditch teams.

Subject: Re: Two Worlds (TAG! Sorrow.) Fri Mar 01, 2013 9:52 pm

“That is exactly how my sister describes it,” Sorrow let his jaw fall a bit, in mock-shock, then closed his mouth promptly to resume the stoic expression. “You both are right, of course. Tein is what keeps me awake, oddly enough. I cannot drink coffee,” he added the last bit of explanation, bringing up a hand to point a finger at his head. “Makes me slightly– wacky is the word, I think.”

He took a moment to think about Eirina, wondering at the proper words to describe the Headmistress. “Mistress Naer is- like a mother hen. I do not think it is obvious at first, but she fusses a lot; not just about the students, but professors as well. Perhaps it is because most of us were her students before we rose to position. If she could sit each of them – us – down for a talk, be it to scold or praise or offer advice, I believe she would.” Sorrow shook his head, letting out a light laugh. “A lot of us probably would not have made it this far if she had not been there.”

Subject: Re: Two Worlds (TAG! Sorrow.) Sat Mar 02, 2013 4:22 pm

"She sounds like she's the perfect woman for the job." Gail said with a smile, as she reached the door to the Three Broomsticks. When she opened it and stepped inside, she held the door open for Sorrow before making her way to the bar. This would be the first time she'd been here since the place reopened, and it made her smile, as many things did.

She turned to Sorrow as she found a seat, "So you have a sister?"

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» Grace, Sorrow
» Years Gone By (Tag: Sorrow)
» A Moonlit Stroll [Sorrow]
» Growing Pains (Tag: Sorrow)