After Cassandra returned through the array, and they enjoyed a meal together they continued traveling. With Lexi as their guide, they were able to avoid more conflicts with locals. Savannah was talking to Lexi, and hoping to recruit her to Eden.
"My mother told me stories about areas like this, but she only saw it at night," Cassandra told Zack.
"The sun isn't too much is it?" Zack asked.
The rings used by the vampire in Eden allowed them to roam in the sun, but most only used them for the cities celebrations or combat. After a lifetime in the darkness, their skin never adapted. Examining Cassandra's delicate complexion Zack was concerned she could get burned.
"We get some shade now, and then. Besides, it's worth it to see the wildlife." Cassandra smiled watching monkeys swing above.
Zack raised his hand causing the clouds to cast some shade, but only enough to offer comfort. Knowing Cassandra had a fascination for adventuring he didn't want to obscure too much. She leaned closer to Zack as they stopped to admire a large shoebill drinking from the swamp.
"Thank you," Cassandra kissed Zack on the cheek.
"We may be here with a purpose, but It doesn't mean we can't enjoy our trip," Zack replied.
"Do you know anyone around here that's friendly?" Savannah asked.
"Most humans around here don't like us, but one city might let you in," Lexi replied.
"Might?" Cassandra investigated.
"Some places permit entrance based on how many human features you possess," Zack told Cassandra.
"Gonna skip that place then," Savannah replied.
"I'll visit another day to ensure there's no foul play going on. Any other species around here that are open to trade?" Zack asked Lexi.
"They are cautious of my people but are friendly to humans," Lexi replied.
"How far is it?" Savannah asked.
"If we moved through the swamp nightfall," Lexi replied as she scanned the swamp for threats.
Zack conjured the earth orb and morphed it into a sturdy platform with railings to prevent sneak attacks. He retrieved some furniture from his ring and set up enough spots to sit. Given the long journey, he wanted to ensure comfort for his companions.
"I've always wanted to see it up close. Do all humans use magic?" Lexi asked.
"Not just humans." Savannah drew her sword engulfing it in mana.
While Cassandra and Zack were boarding Lexi was still staring at the sword. After the fascination faded they joined the others, and Zack began moving their platform above the water. The journey to the village would be a while, and they decided to make the most of it.
Cassandra snuggled up to rest against Zack's chest while his hand rubbed up, and down her arm tenderly. Given the speed of the craft, they were able to make small stops to enjoy the wildlife. They even managed to find a nice spot to enjoy the sunset together.
"It's beautiful no matter how many times I see it." Cassandra smiled.
"I'm glad I could experience it with you," Zack replied.
While the two were being lovey in the front seat Lexi watched carefully. Earlier was the first attempt to mate, and Lexi was still a little sore. The experience was entertaining, and she was sure they did everything right, but when seeing the two snuggle affectionately she had second thoughts.
"If you're curious about humans we have some living with us, and they are friendly," Savannah told Lexie.
"Is the swamp big enough?" Lexi asked
"We don't have one, but we do have lakes, and a river connected to the city," Cassandra replied while pointing out a large snake coiled around a tree.
"I could make your home match one," Zack told Lexi.
"The weather is also great for our kind," Savannah stated.
They continued to talk about life in Eden as they continued through the swamp. On their route, they witnessed several leeches sitting on the bank of swamp conversing about their favorite blood types. They appeared humans but had a smooth red, and black hood on their heads resembling hair that obscured their eyes. The women smiled at Lexi exposing their razor teeth.
'Given their reactions, it seems we're getting closer.' Zack smiled and waved politely.
The leeches dove into the swamp rapidly appearing by their side. All four of them lifted themselves up to peer through the rails and wave at Lexi. Leading them was a woman named Rachel, and she climbed over the rails examining the structure closely.
"Haven't seen you around here in a while."
"What is this?"
"Is that a human?"
"He smells good," Rachel crept in closely taking deep whiffs.
Zack could feel a tongue trailing up the back of his neck that numbed the area.
"You let us have a little suck, and we can return the favor. " Rachel whispered.
Hearing this Cassandra went red, and turned away from Zack. Their words didn't both her because Cassandra came to terms with the man she chose long ago. What was causing her to gradually turn into a tomato was the thought of them drawing his blood. Cassandra has never forgotten the overwhelming fragrance from the bath, and the incident in the slums early stirred the sensation again.
"I have these if you're hungry." Zack offered vials of blood.
"You never had problems with someone else feeding." Savannah teased.
"We are very gentle, and I promise it won't hurt." Rachel smiled with the other girls.
"I believe you, and any other time I wouldn't mind, but I'm quite comfortable at the moment." Zack smiled at Cassandra.
"This is mine if that's what you're concerned about," Zack told the girls.
"Why do you have those?" Savannah asked.
"Madi was pretty persistent in her feeding before I left like it was the last time. With that in mind, I wanted to leave her something in my absence, but I ended up making a little too much," Zack replied.
Hearing this Rachel, and the others quickly took a sip as a look of ecstasy filled their faces. The faint moans heard as the power surged through them made the ride a little awkward, but only for Zack. The two in the back with them didn't mind, and Cassandra couldn't hear it. Since they opened the vials all Cassandra could think of was Zack's blood.