It was your typical Saturday evening; Artemitra was at the Pure Country Den hanging out with a few friends that evening. Since she and Ridley had been working hard, on a project as a surprise for her adoptive brother Kane. Artemis felt, that they needed a well deserved break and have a little fun. So here, the girls were at the bar along with a few other friends, that she had made in Evermore, since her relocation there after the fall of Isle of Skye.

The Celestial had her brunette hair done up in loose curls, wearing a simple evening dress. The dress simple; but highlighted her slender hourglass figure, fitting her perfectly. It was one of those evenings, that she had decided to dress up. The Den was always buzzing, filled with people and merriment. The place, had always gave her a warm, homey feeling ever since the first day she stepped foot in there. It was different than any other bar, in the city. Which is one of the reasons why she had liked it so much. Not just the good company, but the entire atmosphere and the selection that was offered on the menu.

With a few drinks in their system, the girls were all giggly about something. It had been a while, since Artemitra was feeling more relaxed; not looking over her shoulder all the time. And for a while, she had been free of her night terrors. Which was a rarity. But, when that happened. Most of the time, they creeped back on her with a vengeance.

The sound of the door opening, caused the young woman to glance towards the door. Seeing more people flooding in. Among them, someone she did not expect to see. At first, she didn’t recognise the handsome stranger, when he was partially blocked from her view. When he was fully more visible. The Celestial had to do a double take. Her eyes shooting towards his direction, once more. Her chocolate brown eyes slightly widening in shock.

Artemis knew that face. She knew that stranger. Well, in some respects...she didn’t know him as well; as she would have liked to. Given the fact, he was supposed to be dead. But here he was, looking the same as the day they had first met. It caused her chest to tighten, as the memories replayed in her head. Almost on a loop. Finding herself unable to breathe, for a few moments.

It wasn’t your usual meeting and a memory that never left her mind. Mainly because of the guilt. He had been a stranger, that had jumped in front of her. Willing to sacrifice his own life, when she was on the run with her people; after the fall of Isle of Skye. The remaining of the guards, that were around. Had been chasing the Celestial’s down; when he had saved her life, quiet literally. But at the cost of his own. She never did, figure out. Why he was even willing to jump in front of her. He didn’t know her; yet he saved her.

Artemitra felt, fixated in her seat. Speechless...almost like she had seen a ghost. She was shocked, surprised...speechless...the guilt bubbling inside of her once more. As much, as she wanted to come out and say something. What was she supposed to say? She could hear, her friends calling her name. Trying to snap her back to reality.

“Artemis?” Feeling hands on her shoulders, shaking her slightly. “Mitra! Artemis...hello? Mitra…” the shaking got bit more heavier. Making the Celestial jolt slightly...accidentally knocking over a glass of red wine, which spilled onto her dress and down her legs. Artemis closed her eyes, in embarrassment.

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Seeing the handsome stranger, trip over his own feet. He seemed, almost as shocked; as she was. No matter what happened, that night 8 years ago. There were three things, she was positive off;

First, he hadn’t left her mind. Almost like the memory had forever touched her mind and heart in ways, she couldn’t explain. Maybe, it had something, to do with him being so selfless and saving her life.

Two, she felt drawn to the stranger, even if she barely knew him.

And three, he was here...alive. How? She had no idea. But her head was full of questions. Questions about why, he saved her...and whom he was.

Artemis grabbed one of the napkins, from one of the holders. Trying to clean up her legs, from the wine spillage. When she heard a thick, Russian accent. Her heart hammering inside of her chest. God, did his voice sound alluring. Her chocolate brown eyes, taking him in. Feature by feature, with him standing so close. She tried to recall, if he looked as handsome back then. Everything seemed to be a blur, 8 years ago when he saved her life. If anything, he probably looked better now. His physique seemed to be strong and muscular. Even if she was sitting down; he was tall. And would most likely still tower over her, by a few inches if she would have been standing up. Artemitra looked a little stunned; that he addressed her. The phrase that left his lips, caused her to blush. But searching through her mind, for different Russian Phrases. Artemis couldn’t recall, what that particular word even meant. “I...Ya….hi?” Artemis breathed out, after few moments of silence. Sounding as breathless as she felt. Her heart racing inside of her chest. A shy, nervous smile curling on her lips. It was a relief; she was sitting down, for the fact her legs felt like jelly.

How was it even possible, that he had such an effect on her? She barely knew him. Her friends, giggling to themselves. What was supposed to be a greeting, had came of as a question. Artemirta mentally, slapped herself. ‘Way to go Mitra, can’t even greet the guy in proper way.’ “I mean...Hi..” The celestial corrected herself. Her voice coming out bit squeaky, from her embarrassment.  “You haven’t aged a day.” She blurted out, before she could stop herself. The words had just slipped out, without thinking much about it.

Artemitra’s eyes still were glued on him. Unable to tear her gaze away from him. His chiseled strong jawline, those striking eyes….shining bright teeth. Artemis tried not to stare so much. But seeing him, was a major shock. At that moment, it didn’t even click that he might have been a Valkyr. But, something...or someone, must have brought him back from the beyond. As he clearly didn’t look like a ghost.

“How….I thought….how…..you were….I saw….” Artemitra tried to make a coherent sentence, but her words kept coming out mixed. Unable to actually say, what she wanted. The word, dead...was unable to slip off of her tongue. It was like, anything she tried to say the word, in the sentence. She trailed off, her voice cracking. Of all, the people to meet. He wasn’t, one that she would have expected to see.

Trying to rephrase, the question inside of her own head. Artemis wasn’t having much luck to be honest. Probably looking even more baffled, struggling to find the right words. “How, are you here?” Artemis finally breathed out, after a few moments. That seemed to be the most coherent thing she said to him, in the last few moments. And much better, than asking him if he was dead. No, she couldn’t even bring herself to say that; even if she would have tried harder.

“Wow, cute new guy, sure has you tongue tied.” One of her friends whispered in her ear, in a fit of giggles. None of them, had ever seen Artemitra speechless and babbling over a guy before. The site, was sure new and amusing.

Artemis probably looked like a lost, confused mess right about now. But in all honesty, she had not been expecting for him to show up at the Den. Let alone Evermore, and in her life. She didn’t know, he was alive. But in, a way it was also a relief. She could tell him what she wanted to for so long. Her cheeks heating up, with an embarrassed blush; from her babbling amongst other things.

As he seemed to finish, of her sentences. Artemitra’s eyes were slightly wide. How, did he know what she was thinking? “I...yes...you kind of stole the words right out of my mouth...or brain more like.” she muttered, with a slight sigh. Whichever phrase was more appropriate; he knew what she wanted to say; even if she was unable to say it. Artemitra didn’t expect him to be so blunt. But then again; she didn’t know much about the handsome stranger, or his personality. He was probably full of surprises; no doubt.

Mitra opened her mouth; but no words escaped for a few moments. Not sure, what to say. It was like, her thoughts and mouth didn’t want to function together properly. This was going to take a while. Hearing how shocked her friends were. “Mhh, a little louder...I don’t think the entire Den heard you.” she said, slightly teasingly. Artemis didn’t think, it was a comment he should have made so out loud; not with so many prying ears and eyes. When he suggested, going somewhere, Artemis nodded. “I think, that’s a good idea.” God knows, they had a lot to talk about. And could use the privacy.

Standing up from her seat, Artemis grabbed her jacket which was on the back of her chair. Slipping it on. Before her hand slipped into his. Not that she really thought about it. It seemed automatic almost, as a response to his gesture. Feeling slight tingle, from the contact of her skin on his. But something about him, made her feel safe enough to do so. Artemis noticed Kane watching the pair of them. Giving the man, she thought of as her brother a reassuring look. Almost to soothe his worry. She knew, what she was doing. Hopefully.

Seeing his eyes glancing over to the door. Artemis looked to the door too. Almost in worry. Was he expecting someone? Or was something after him? “Are you okay?” Artemis asked, glancing up towards him. “You seem, bit….distracted by the door.”

Artemitra couldn’t help but wonder, what the conversation would turn out to be like. Maybe, it’d bring them both some answers; that they were both searching for. As they made their way to somewhere more private. Artemis was replaying the questions inside of her head. One by one. But she wasn’t about to unload it all on him at once. Once she found her words again. The Celestial looked up at him. “I..I honestly have no idea where to begin. When you….died…” she choked out the word. “I..am sorry it happened. I didn’t expect you to jump in front of me,and have your life be snuffed from you in the process.” Artemis felt the need to apologize, as she felt guilty. “Nor, did I expect to….well this…” Artemitra breathed out. Her eyes still fixated on his. Trying to read him; but it was like he was good at masking his emotions. She wasn’t able to get a read his expressions that clearly. “I don’t even know who you are...what’s your name?” Artemitra asked him softly. It seemed like a good place to start. Maybe 8 years too late, to learn his name. But it was a start.

There was almost something, comforting about his laugh. It was strange, being able to joke around with a stranger she barely knew. But, for some reason; the Celestial could feel at ease around the Valkyr. “Let’s not, freak out the entire Bar, shall we?” Artemis replied to his remark. Feeling him squeeze her hand; made her palm of her hand tingle slightly. Holding onto his hand, she followed him outside. Raising a slight eyebrow; as she listened to him explain. “Well...personally...I wouldn’t go upstairs. The owner of the bar lives above...I don’t think the fireplace, would be a good escape either...unless you wanted to burn yourself.” The Celestial looking concerned. She didn’t think, he’d be that suicidal trying to escape through a fireplace?

Once they were outside; Artemitra hugged her coat around herself. To help herself keep warmer. The night air crisp. When Phoenix began to speak; The Celestial looked slightly puzzled when he began to talk in Russian. Having a slight hard time keeping up. ‘Yikes...I should have learned more Russian, 180 years ago.’ She thought to herself. It had been so long, since she had spoken Russian and knew anyone from that country; that she struggled to remember; even the little bits she had learned back then. “Well, no...I know a little bit. But right now, am struggling to remember to even remember that.” Artemis admitted with a embarrassed blush. Was it his presence, or not speaking Russian in so long, that she had forgotten? Or a mixture of both, maybe. “So, you might want to stick to English.” Although, she had to admit. Listening to him talk in Russian….there was just something, different about that. She wasn’t sure if it was the language...or just his own voice; that made it sound good.

It was true; Artemis didn’t ask him to jump in front of her; nor did she give that order to have his life taken away. But it didn’t stop her, from feeling that guilt and sadness. Kane was the one, whom had tried to help her deal with the grief and guilt. “Why...why did you?” Artemitra asked him. “I mean, most humans see danger...they run. They don’t jump in front of it.” But, no. He was the right opposite of that. It wasn’t that, she wasn’t grateful. On one level, she could appreciate him being her saviour...but his life being lost; that was what made her feel guilty.

Her brown eyes; looking up at him. Scanning him over; almost like she was making sure that he was truly standing in front of her, in one piece. It made her wonder; if it was actually real. Or was she in a dream? Artemis sure, could hope it was all ‘real.’ As she didn’t want to wake up-and find that he was still gone. Learning, that he was a Valkyr. The same species as Genevieve and Euphemia. It made her wonder, if it was fate they were brought back together, somehow?

“You...you’ve been looking for me?” Artemis asked, as he expressed his desire to get to know her. Sounding half surprised, half unsure if she was right in thinking that. But, that desire was mutual. As the Celestial longed to get to know him; now that he was standing in front of her.

Artemitra smiled at him gently. Her brown eyes, holding a soft twinkle. “Something tells me, you already know my name. I mean...you already know, what I am.” Who knows, what else he knew about her. “But, since we’re on the subject. I am Artemitra Bluemoon, or as most call me Artemis.” She introduced herself to him, a warm smile on her face.

Hearing his own name, The Celestial smiled softly, to herself. Even his name, sounded unique. “Well, you don’t really look like a Tucker, if you ask me. I mean, it’s not a bad middle name….but Pheonix….that suits you a lot more.” The Celestial blushed slightly, realising she was beginning to babble again. How was it, that he could have such an effect on her? Or was it the alcohol that was running through her system, that made it even more so? The fact, that his stepfather hated his true name, and even him; caused her heart to clench. Artemis’ eyes twinkling with slight sadness at the news. “That’s….sad to hear. I am sorry...I can imagine, it probably wasn’t easy...to be hated by him.” The Celestial was probably very apologetic, right now. Both for his death, for the situation he got himself into, and his past with his step father.

The Celestial still looked slightly puzzled. Despite her years of knowledge; she was still learning more about the abilities that Valkyrs were capable off. So she was a bit confused, about his intentions of using the fire-place, as an escape zone.  It didn’t sound like a good idea, to climb up out of it...especially with a fire burning. Artemis tried to shake the confusing thoughts from her head. Obviously, he knew what he was doing when it came to using it as an escape zone.  Still trying to decipher, what he possibly could have meant. It was taking her a while, to rack her brain to remember, what Valkyrs could do. Shadow Magic Maybe? If she wasn't as stunned, like she was. She might have figured it out quicker.

Looking at him, her chocolate brown eyes were still fixated on him. For the most part-not blinking too much. Almost like she was in a daze still; still trying to wrap her head around the fact that he was actually alive. The Celestial nodded her head gently, as he asked if he got his wording right. “Yes...job...is the word.” By the sound of his wording, it was clear he didn’t speak English that much. But Artemis was still able to make out, what he meant. Despite his bluntness; it was clear he didn’t mind risking his life for a total stranger in the moment. “Are you always this blunt?” God knows, he’d probably keep her on her toes, if he was like that all the time.

Wondering what sort of job, had him about the woods and after someone. Was he a hunter or something?

As he tilted his head, Artemis was still gazing at him. Her eyes soft. Indeed he did have a good point. “Well...yeah I suppose….you have a point. I mean...I just….I didn’t expect this. I didn’t even know you were….alive the last 8 years. Let alone looking for me...so definitely, not a normal situation.” She was still trying to wrap her head around this entire meeting. “I’d be lying, if I said I wasn’t curious about you either.” Artemis admitted. Even if he had died, few years ago. It didn't stop her from wondering, about whom he had been.  In a way, she was relieved that he was alive-even though he wasn’t human.

Hearing him trying to say her name, Artemis couldn’t help the slight giggle that escaped her as he called her Armetira. “Well, that’s a new one.” she said smiling softly; finding it endearing somehow. Her name must have sounded more of a mouthful for him, she wasn’t sure if it was just his Russian Accent or her name being so different, that made it sound different. “It’s….well...it’s missing a few letters.” Artemitra told him “It’s Art-e-mi-tra” The Celestial said softly, sounding out her name in bits, to help correct him. “It’s alright Nix, I know, my name is bit of a mouthful.” Without really thinking much about it beforehand, a soft  nickname for him, slipped out. As he called her Tee. The nickname sounded simple. Artemis nodded her head gently. “Tee, is good.” Not minding him calling her that. Knowing, she could cope with that. Not to mention she quite liked it.

His stern voice, caught her off guard slightly. Especially for her apology. “I...sorry..” the word slipped out again. The Celestial mentally slapped herself. “Oh gosh, I did it again...sorry… I have a tendency to apologise a lot, at times...I can’t really help it.” Whilst he seemed more cold about his situation, back home. Artemis was the one whom was more compassionate; and felt sorry for what he had to go through. Despite what he said; she couldn’t wipe that look off of her face-it wasn’t in her nature, to dismiss something like that. She cared. Even if they barely knew each other. Caring too much, was always one of her things. Stranger or not.

As he asked about her, Artemis smiled softly. “I am a Photographer. I guess, I’ve always been a bit more...creative.” Plus, the freedom she had with it. Artemis got to experiment, try out different things. And use her skills for a variety of jobs and projects. It was definitely, more of a advantage, with her line of work. “So...what is it...that you do? Or used...to do?” The Celestial questioned, raising a slight eyebrow at the Valkyr in front of her. Seemingly curious about him; like he was about her.

It had been a while, since Artemitra had known someone so upfront and blunt. Most of the people she knew, weren’t as sharp tongued. The Celestial wasn’t entirely too sure, if that was a good thing...or a bad one. For a moment, it left the young looking female speechless. “Well…..aren’t you something?” The words slipped out, with a breath she didn’t even realise she was holding. No doubt, if she would choose to spend more time with him; he’d keep her on her toes. A soft smile, on her lips as he attempted to say her name again. But still he settled for Tee.

His comment about breaking habits, caused the Celestial to furrow her brows slightly. His words coming off slightly cold; as he claimed he ever rarely apologise unless it was needed. “Well, it’s probably one of those things; that are easier said than done.” The Celestial pointed out. It wasn’t always, like she did it to intentionally annoy someone whom didn’t apologise. It was a part of whom, she was. Although, she was well aware of the saying, that someone’s past does shape a person. Him being cold; was the opposite of what she was. Making her wonder, about his own past.

But she also noticed, how there seemed to be some warmth and emotion to him, when he smiled. Almost like he was switching back and forth between the two.

Seeing his hand gesture, she nodded. “Yes, Photos.” As she held her coat around her, hiding her hands in her pockets. The Celestial listened to him talk, as he spoke about his own previous job. “Some family business?” Artemitra rose a slight eyebrow. But being without a job for the last 8 years, was probably not a smart move. “You’re not broke are you?” She asked, looking at him. For a moment, not sure if he got what she meant; if he hadn’t used that phrase often. “Umm...not running out of money.” she explained. But he seemed to be doing well, if he wasn’t in a rush to be looking for a job right now. The Celestial focused back on the road ahead of her; so she didn’t walk into a lamp-post or anything else solid.

His question, caused her to glance towards him again. “That, would depend on your definition of good. I mean, a lot of people do love my work...I always liked the freedom and experimenting behind it.” Artemis spoke with a warm smile. As he wanted to see some of her work, she nodded her head. “Of course. Any time.” she said softly. Artemis was always happy, when someone wanted to look at her work.

“What part of Russia,did you come from?” Artemitra asked, looking curious. Over her years of travelling, she had been to Russia on a few occasions. Maybe even somewhere, where he came from? That would have been, quiet the lucky strike; if that was the case.

Feeling Phoenix wrap his coat around her small frame. It left her slightly surprised. His coat was warm, and was coated in his scent. The weather was much colder now, than it had been when she first set out earlier in the evening. “I...thank you….” she said softly. The warmth of his coat, warming her up bit quicker, than her own. “Aren’t you…” she trailed off, realising her question would sound silly. Was he cold? Did Valkyrs even get cold? She knew, the only species that loved the cold were Niveis.

As he joked with her, about her wanting him for his money; the Celestial couldn’t help but laugh. Lightly nudging him. “God, no...what do you take me for?” Artemis shook her head, in amusement. Raising a slight eyebrow, at his demand that came out more half a question. “Now, either you’re really eager...or you just want to keep a girl on her toes.” The Celestial couldn’t help but tease slightly. But, in all honesty-she was kind of grateful it’d get them out of the cold weather.

Sochi indeed was a familiar place. But it had been a very long time,since she had been there. The brunette haired Celestial nodded. “Yes, I’ve been to Sochi….a long time ago. I think it was in 1735, or 1740.” So indeed, it had been a quite long time, since she had been there. “At the time, I was there..it was winter...so as beautiful as it was...freaking cold. I also been to Moscow..and…” she pursed her lips, trying to remember the other destination whereabouts she had been in Russia. “Samara...that’s the one.” Artemis said with a smile, when she remembered.

The subject of her work, seemed to be popping up every now and again. “I work from home actually...it’s just in this way.” Artemis walked in the westerly direction; towards the Celestial’s territory of the city. She was still in the process of getting herself a own studio outside of the Celestial Palace. So, for now...a spare room at home, served for her purposes...unless she was working from her own room.

Hearing him ask, where she came from. A slight giggle left her lips. Technically; she wasn’t born on earth-but a part of him was right. “Well, you’re half right. Each of us fallen stars, do have a home per say….we all came from different constellations.”  The Celestial had no idea, how far his knowledge about stars and astronomy went. Artemitra lifted up her right arm, sliding up the edge of her coat to reveal markings on her right wrist. Showing it to Phoenix. “This right here...is the Constellation Canis Major. Otherwise, known as the ‘Greater Dog’ because of the Symbol Dog Leapas.” The Celestial explained, with a warm smile on her face. Every Celestial had a marking, of their own constellations where they had come from; it was a reminder of their home. A marking of their species. Seeing how clear the sky was tonight, the stars were twinkling brightly in the sky. The exact constellation was visible clearly. “Look...look.” Stopping the male...she pointed up towards the sky. “Right there...that was my home, before I fell.”

“But, I landed on a sandy beach in Asturias, Spain.” Her Spanish accent coming through, every once in a while. Hopefully, it’d give him some insight into where she had come from.

A slight blush forming on her cheeks again, as he called her that nickname again. Smiling softly. Taking quite a liking, to that endearing Russian term. She could see his curiosity peeking, as she mentioned the years when she was in Russia. “It’s okay, you can ask.” Artemis said softly. Even if age was just a number, for them both. If he asked, she’d be honest with him. “Mhh, I do like winter and the snow...but it was a bit too cold for my liking.” Russia was probably the most coldest of places, she’s ever been too. Even if it was beautiful; she mostly preferred warmer climates...even for the winter; so it was more bearable.

His teasing about taking him home, made her laugh. The Celestial threw her head back slightly in giggles. Shaking her head. “Oh honestly, men and their brains.” It had been a while, since Artemis felt like this, around someone. At ease, to be able to smile and laugh. Despite the company of her friends; this feeling around Phoenix was different. Somehow, he was just ease to talk to. 

Looking up at the skies for a few moments, Artemis smiled at his comment. Indeed, the world was quiet small; even if it looked bigger. “Indeed, quiet a small world.” Looking towards him, as she walked by his side. His question about her having family, was indeed quite a complicated one. “That’s...bit complicated I guess. Stars...don’t really have families per say...as we’re not born, like normal people. “ Artemitra tried to think of how to best explain. “I guess, I do consider a lot of the Celestials, I’ve known for a long time...as family, in a way. But, if two stars fall from the same Constellation; then they would kind of be considered siblings in a way. Otherwise, we’re not really related…” Artemis wasn’t sure, if any of that made much sense to him. But it was the only way, she could think of how to describe the situation.

Linking her arm through his. Artemis gestured back towards the Therian Territory. “But, the Bar’s Owner, Kane...he’s like a brother to me really. And probably, one of the people I’ve known the longest here in Evermore; besides my people of course…” Artemitra explained. Despite, their difference in species. The two acted like siblings; more often than not. That was the beauty of their friendship, that had grown over the time she had known him.

“I live with others….like me.” Artemitra explained. “We live in...well what could be considered a castle. Where our previous leader used to live. But a lot of us, keep to themselves...mostly in their rooms, some are at work; as they work night shifts.” So, chances are; they might run into a few people. But not too many, if it would be a calm night. “Do you,have any siblings?” Artemitra asked, as she glanced up towards Phoenix with a warm smile. Wondering, if there was anyone in his family, that he may have been close to.

Reading Minds? She wished. “No, not really” Artemis said with a soft giggle. Celestials did have the power of fore-sight. It wasn’t the same as reading minds; but if they wanted to...they could project certain images and visions into the other persons minds. “I’ve just been around people long enough, to know the look….the silent curiosity.” Others were more blunt and asked what she was, but when it came to her age-they were always more discreet. But the look, she seen it plenty of times before. “But, to silence your curiosity...I am 370.” His mishap sentence about normality, made her giggle slightly as he used the wrong word. “Exist is the right word...Normal doesn’t exist…” The Celestial said softly, correcting him. But in a way, maybe he was right. There were more moments where the Brunette thought the same. Where she wondered if she’d have a normal life. And other times, where she was certain that small bits of normality, were present in their lives. But it was only small, due to how many Supernatural beings lived in the same city. “Mhh, maybe you’re right...but what little moments of normality, I have in my life..I hold onto. Takes my mind away from the craziness of everything else.”

Artemis nodded as he asked about her choosing family. “Yes, kind of like adopted.” she confirmed with a warm smile. Artemitra didn’t recall a moment where she had met another Celestial from the same constellation she had came from. A lot of Celestials had died, in the darker ages. Even if they were Immortal’ they were still easily hunted down and killed, by things such as mortal diseases that couldn’t be cured back in the olden days. But for him, he was from this world; he grown up with parents, siblings. His family was much different. “Do you miss them? Your siblings?” Artemis asked curious, wondering if he was close to someone from his family.

“Well...if you consider 10 or 9 others, a big crowd...that’s how many of us live there..” Artemis said softly. It was a bit of a busy household for the Celestial’s. But she had always liked company of others. Even if it could get crazy at times. With everyone’s different personalities, people bickering. “Only a few of my kind, live away from the castle. But the rest...we just been sticking together after…” The celestial trailed off slightly, as she thought about being in captivity for so long. But shook it off. The others, that had run away before they got captured; she had no idea where they were. Scattered somewhere around the world, or maybe even sadly dead. Even if they were Immortal; they were still quite fragile and most saught out by hunters.

Listening to him talk, Artemis nodded silently. He did have a point. Living alone; you’d have some peace of mind. “Don’t you get lonely though?” she questioned, raising a slight eyebrow. “Personally, I’ve always been a people person.” Even if she at times, could be cautious around new people; until she knew they could be trusted. Artemis was quite sociable and she liked being around people, rather than being on her own. She’d probably go out of her mind, crazy if she was alone.

The night sky was beautiful; and Artemis couldn’t help but keep enjoying the view. How bright and beautiful the sky was that evening. It made the Celestial smile. There was just something enigmatic and peaceful, about the stars in the sky tonight. It wasn’t long before they reached a large beautiful building, with a fountain in front. The architecture of the Celestial’s home, was quite old and beautiful. Some called it a Museum of sorts; maybe as it had quite a few hidden treasures and secrets inside. “Well...here it is.” Artemis said with a smile, as she pulled out her home keys from her purse, before unlocking the door.

It seemed quiet; and it gave her the impressions most Celestials were in their room as always. Or out at work. Until there came a strange loud bang and shriek from the kitchen; that made Artemitra jump. Obviously, one of the younger Celestials had a mishap in the kitchen. The lights flickering on and off; as the electricity was now messed up, due to whatever one of the other Celestial’s had done. “Jesucristo. Ahora que han hecho?.” The Celestial muttered to herself; in Spanish. It wasn’t often, she used the language of the country she considered home; when she fell. Not unless she was frustrated, or talking to someone else from Spain. Other times, The Celestial would ramble in various languages that she knew; confusing everyone in the process by her switching so fast. It was an odd habit of hers, that sometimes came about. Some frustration over her features. Giving Phoenix an apologetic look; before proceeding to look at whom caused the mess.

Walking towards the kitchen, to inspect what was going on. Artemis saw one of the younger Celestials in the kitchen; covered in what looked like exploded food...with some left-overs hanging from the ceiling and the mess was all over the counter, floor and the microwave...looked like a mess. The Brunette shook her head. “Oh fantastic.” she muttered, with a sigh. Looking up at the ceiling and then the messy Celestial. “What...were you doing?” she shook her head, trying to decipher what on earth had exploded everywhere.

Seeing the look on his face, when she mentioned her age. The Celestial bit her lip. “I know, I know...I am old.” Granted, not as old as some Supernaturals,that lived in the city. But still old. Artemis saw him scanning her up and down. Feeling his eyes on her. His compliment, causing her to feel flattered; as a blush crept up onto her cheeks. Look like, looking in her 20’s...was quiet the advantage. But no one called her stunning. Not recently. His question about her life, made her pause for a moment. If she had to describe what she went through, all the running, sticky situation she’ been in, falling in love with an Ailward and being betrayed, the imprisonment, and with the things going on the last few years here in Evermore. Including her still being as stubborn and impulsive, as she always had been. Yep, she’d describe it as crazy. “You have no idea.” Her life definitely wasn’t dull. But it wasn’t always happy 100% either. It came with challenges, good and bad. But her life, was from normal.

Artemis noticed the way his smirk, formed into a smile. It seemed like a rare sight to see that caring smile on his face. At least for tonight. But it made the Celestial smile. Nodding in understanding, at what he tried to say. “I get it, she’s your half sister, from your mother’s side.” It seemed like they were close. “Does your sister, live in the city also?”

His answer seemed a bit mixed. Artemis gathered he was man who liked his freedom and solace. But deep down, he also desired to be with someone. She had to admit, sleeping in bed with someone at night, was much better than sleeping alone. But apart from her relationship with Erythreus, she spent most of her time, alone at night. So in a way, she had been used to being alone, for a long time.

Artemis didn’t expect to walk into the castle; to find a messy kitchen. Of course, quite a lot of the Celestials were still learning new things, including how to cook. 100 years in captivity. They missed out on a lot of things, especially the younger ones...who knew imprisonment. Some from the first day they fell from the sky. At least Ophelia wasn’t home yet, she didn’t think. Or the Wayfinder, would have caused a major fuss.

Seeing Phoenix, grab a wet cloth. “You really don’t have to.” Artemis said softly. It felt a bit rude of her to ask for his help. He was a visitor. But he didn’t seem to mind? Looking at the messy microwave, Artemis saw bits of what looked like porcelain. Or something. “You don’t put these in the microwave either. It’s not safe, no wonder thing explode.” Artemis walked over to the cupboard in the hallway. Getting out two bucket and mops. So they could clean the floor and the walls. With the three of them, it was a bit of a cleaning sessions. Hopefully, before Ophelia would return home and complain, someone ruined the new organised kitchen, again. It took them ages to redo the kitchen. Mainly because, at first it was a mess. And no one knew where anything was.

With the two Celestials and Phoenix, cleaning up the messy kitchen. It was a quicker job done. The younger Celestial was cleaning the ceiling, with a mop. The mop was quite long, so could reach that far up. Using the other mop. Mitra mopped up the dirty floor. As he gestured for her to come closer. Mitra was surprised as he lifted her up, with ease. Once she was up on his shoulders. Using her legs, to hold onto him. Mitra leaned bit forward. Cleaning up the high ends of the wall. It took quicker, than she first thought. Artemis almost forgot, she had been wearing a dress. Already stained in wine, food stains now added on. She probably looked a bit of a mess. “Well...this wasn’t the best choice of outfit, for cleaning a messy kitchen.” Artemis muttered to herself, as Nix lifted her back down to the ground.

Artemis gave him a soft smile. Thankful for his help. The young Celestial thanked him quietly, as she finished cleaning up the dirty microwave. After they washed their hands. She listened to him, tell her more about his sister. “She’s probably just worried, if she hasn’t seen you in a long time.” It most likely, was nothing to be worried about. Just sisterly worry, she would imagine. Especially, if his sister didn’t know what he was yet.

It still felt like a bit of a shock.That Phoenix was standing in front of her. But a part of her felt grateful that they could meet under better circumstances. Even if she hadn’t been expecting him to be alive. Not many people, outside of her faction  and the Ailwards, knew about what she went through, Artemis didn’t like to talk about it much. And despite, Phoenix’s heroic actions. He was still new in her life. Hearing his question, she glanced down towards his equally dirty t-shirt. “Sure, of course.”

It’s not like, she’d let him walk around with a dirty, t-shirt on.  The way his eyes searched her face. Artemis paused slightly. “What? Do I have some food on my face?” Wondering, if she was more dirtier than she thought, from the cleaning. The Celestial had taken his t-shirt from him, once he slide it off. Briefly catching sight of his toned chest and muscles. Leaving the bedroom once more. Artemis wandered down the hallway and into the laundry room. Where all the dirty towels and clothes had been taken. And yet again, someone forgot to empty the tumbler dryer. Artemis sighed. Opening both the tumbler dryer and the washing machine. She put the dirty towels and Nix’s t-shirt in. Before adding in the washing powder into the dyspenser and put it on. Unloading the freshly dried clothes. She unloaded it all into a basket neatly. Finding a pair of jeans and t-shirt that belonged to her. And a male t-shirt, that looked about Nix’s size.

Undoing her dirty dress. Artemis slide it off. Before putting it in the big sink; to let it soak in some washing powder. It was more delicate...so she never washed it with other clothes. Before getting herself dressed, in the clean clothes that she picked out. Feeling more comfortable, in clean clothes than a dirty dress.

Artemitra’s room was quiet spacious. Like any other bedroom in the castle. It had character and an old feel. The bed was quite big, and neatly made. With a few decorative pillows, ontop of the covers. The bedroom walls, held a few old paintings that had been in the room; long before anyone had moved in. Of course, now not so dusty when Artemis first moved in. It also had a few small chairs, a coffee table. As well as her desk. On her desk were a few scattered photographs that she recently had taken. As she was working for a project. Her laptop as always, was by it’s side. Above her desk. She had quite a few photos. Mainly of her with her friends. From cute one’s, to silly and goofy one’s wit her best friends Ridley and Ophelia. To sibling like photos with her and Kane. Artemis was quite an organised and tidy person. Unless, she was working on something. Than her room was more of an organised chaos of things, she needed. Whilst her wardrobe may have been spacious. Artemis didn’t own nearly enough clothes, as some of the other Celestials. But her fashion varied a little bit. Some clothes more vintage and old, some more modern. Artemis also loved books. So she had quiet a few on the shelves. Mainly history books.

When Artemis returned. She gave Phoenix a soft smile.”I found this for you, it looks about yourself. I am sure, one of the guys won’t mind for a bit.” Artemis gave him the dark coloured t-shirt she picked out for him. Leaning down, she slipped off her shoes. Her feet feeling a bit sore, from wearing them all night. Not to mention, the clip had been digging into her scalp for the past hour. Reaching into her dark hair. Artemis pulled out the pin. Before slightly shaking out her long brown hair. Her hair falling around her, in slight light curls. Artemis’ hair was always quiet long. Like most of the women, she never opted for short hair-cuts.

“You know, you didn’t need to help out in the kitchen.” Mitra spoke softly. “But...thank you.” She was sure she and the other Celestial could have handled it no problem. But his extra help was appreciated nonetheless.

As the Valkyr thanked her, the Celestial nodded. “You’re welcome.” she said softly. As he pulled the t-shirt over his frame. Artemis noticed, it was a bit tight on him. Making his toned arms, a bit more on display. At his question, Artemis looked towards the photos of her, with her friends. “Not all of them.” Artemis shook her head. As he asked whom they were, Artemitra nodded before pointing out a few people. First was her and Ophelia. A raven haired Celestial. “This is one of my closest friends Ophelia. I have known her for centuries. She’s also our leader.” Then came a shorter, young woman by her side. “This is my best-friend Ridley. She’s a photographer like me.” The Celestial seemed to light up, as she talked about her friends. All of them, meant a great deal to her. “And this is Kane. He owns the bar, we left. The Adoptive like brother, I told you about.”

Hearing Phoenix bring up, the Kitchen. The Celestial shook her head, in slight amusement. “I think you mean cooking lesson.” But, not many Celestials had those skills. Especially the younger one’s. 100 years of captivity, for those that didn’t know what they were, had a part to play in that. “Not many of us know how to cook. I mean, some of them try...even if it ends in a disaster. “ Artemis had to give them some points for effort.

His question, caused the up-lifted spirit to drop. Recoiling slightly, into herself. Clearly, Nix brought up a touchy subject. “It’s a complicated...uncomfortable story.” Artemis gathered, it would only be a matter of time before he’d bring it up. Walking over to the window, Artemis looked up towards the night sky; her back to the Valkyr. But watching his reactions, in the window reflection.

“For a while, we lived on the Isle of Skye. Our leader Phe, found a faction called the Ailwards. They were supposed to help keep peace, during times of war and help others, that seeked refuge and wanted to live a normal life. So it seemed like the perfect place for us. For a few years, it worked. Until, one of kind went missing and got killed. Our leader, was sent on a mission, to try and fix the incident, by fixing the past. It didn't work out like that...innocent lives were lost, Ophelia was badly injured...and the rest of us, suffered for her accidental mistake and got locked up, for 100 years. They thought, we would be a danger to everything and anyone, as our energy is powerful magic.”

That was probably as much information as she would give him for now. There wasn’t much more detail, she wanted to go into. It brought up too many memories. “I guess now, we are just being watched.” Artemis muttered more to herself than anything. Knowing the Ailwards were keeping an eye on the Celestial’s. Maybe it was for their decision to sign the peace contract. It had taken Ophelia two years, to decide on signing it. But Artemis knew, a lot of their kind might not agree...as the grudge and anger towards the Ailwards ran deep. It wasn’t going to be so easy.

Artemis nodded, as Phoenix caught onto whom was who in the pictures. “And this is Caleb. Another good friend.” she pointed to a picture of her, with Ridley and a young man, seemingly around their age. But of course, he was human. There were a few more pictures of the three, in some The trio were all making funny faces at the camera...as they were having a bit of a goofy moment. She also pointed out Hanseol, a fellow Celestial. Of course of Korean Nature. He was one of the younger one’s and quiet adorable really. Artemis always liked his mature, yet care-free nature. The Celestial had plenty of more connections, including her temporary boss Julian. And a few of the Ailwards. Of course, those relationships were much more complicated. Especially that with the Aspect of Death Erythreus and the Aspect of Darkness Cora. Once upon a time, the Celestial felt she had the closest bond to those two. Now, things were a mess. One being her ex...and one had been one of her closest friends. 

Of course, Nix had a good point about disasters being averted if more people knew how to cook. “That is true. I am sure, we’ll get there eventually.” Even if it did keep them on their toes. 

Hearing Nix’s apology. Artemis shook her head. “It’s not your fault, I am sure you’re curious. I just...it’s not the best subject to talk about.” She sighed, admitting that. It pained her talk about the past, for various reasons.

“You know them?” Artemis asked confused, but he seemed to change what he meant. Ailwards were well known, leaders. So no wonder, he had heard of them. “It’s complicated.” Artemis wasn’t sure how to explain, the entire ordeal with Ophelia, that had caused them to lock them away in the first place. Ophelia regretted the incident, Artemis knew that. “I think you under-estimate just how powerful Celestial energy is Nicky.” Not realising, that she had accidentally called him something else in that split second. “Our energy has the ability to kill thousands of beings. It’s one of the oldest and powerful magic, according to history.” Or so, they were always told. It was strong...kind of like a Supernova. Their own abilities, could also kill them; if overused. “If triggered by the wrong emotion, like anger. It’s more volatile….unpredictable.” From that point of view, she was starting to see, why the Ailwards had locked them up. They couldn’t keep peace, if her kind posed a threat like that. If they would have used their abilities like that. But it didn’t make it hurt any less. “I am not agreeing with them, for how they went about things. But a part of me does, see why they did it. To try and protect people from the potential threat they saw us, being back then. Even if they could have tried to find a better solution. Doesn’t get rid of the sting of betrayal though.” Artemis sighed heavily. Her feelings and emotions concerning the matter, were muddled up. It was chaos. 

His question about them being not being bad. Caused Artemis to look back at the Valkyr again. “No, I was quite close to a few them...back in the good old days, before we were all locked away.” Artemis said honestly. But no doubt, some of them had also probably changed since then. Just like the Celestials. Artemis didn’t totally trust them. Even if there were some, she wished she could trust again. It would take some time, for old wounds to heal.  But still, a 100 years, was a 100 years lost.

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