Thaddeus immediately regretted not standing within arm’s reach when he suggested Alfarinn examine the photograph, and walked over to his companion’s side, touching him lightly on the arm. His companion’s disorientation was concerning but Alfarinn was a well practiced psychometrist and likely had things well in hand. Even so, he calmly wrapped his hand around Alfarinn’s arm and peered over at the photo, feeling Alfarinn’s senses, though somewhat filtered, through the bond. There was a genuine sort of joy underlying Alfarinn’s own feelings, and while his companion was likely getting a more complete idea, he felt there could very well be some truth to her story.
He was, however, relieved that Alfarinn wanted more confirmation of her story, though he blinked in surprise when he asked for her hand, though he had the presence of mind to take a step back and give them both some room.
[Yes, this is certainly a risk but I think it is as calculated of one as we can make with humans. Even if she is armed with the information she needs for everyone to be safe, though, there may be people she has already spoken with; her family, for instance. I’m not certain of what we should do about that but I think the disclosure does need to be a two way street.
Bonded? Interesting…I wonder if Kem realizes that; I would think it would be a difficult thing to ignore, Aishe certainly seems aware of it even if she doesn’t fully understand it yet.]
The idea worried him; he wondered just what could possibly be keeping two bonded people apart, severe misgivings or no.
He personally felt stating that some humans ‘don’t like us’ was quite the understatement, but Alfarinn already seemed well enough aware of the potential consequences and he didn’t think getting into specifics of what humans could do to them would help matters. Instead, he watched as Alfarinn took Aishe’s hand. He was reasonably certain of what his companion intended, but a part of him couldn’t quite believe he would bite her hear and now. What was, in his mind, the most surreal part of all of this was that no one else seemed to think this was the least bit odd; Aishe gave up her hand willingly enough, Alfarinn was as calm as ever, and Mai was simply watching with interest.
Reasonably speaking, it –was- a good idea and he knew his reaction was more emotional than logical. Even so, he couldn’t help but think of the last time the railing Aishe had been gripping had been washed.
He –really- wished that thought hadn’t entered his mind; now the whole matter just flat out bothered him, greatly. He was about to step in and suggest that if they were going to do this they might as well be hygienic about it when Alfarinn just went right ahead and bit her, leaving him with the mixed reaction of his companion’s pleasure and his own aversion.
Well, so much for that idea. At least they had found out what they needed to know, though he still struggled to see any gritty necessity in biting her at exactly that second. He supposed if his companion wasn’t bothered he shouldn’t be either.
[Good to know.]
He looked over at Mai and shrugged a little, feeling somewhat awkward. This was, it seemed, in Evenhet’s hands, quite literally in fact, and he was uncertain of his part in all of this. What did he know about dealing with humans on this level? He supposed the only thing he could do was to support Alfarinn in what he was attempting.
*Pounce* (invite only)
Mai hurried across the room mindful only slightly that she shouldn't walk so fast while towing Aishe behind, especially while wearing something with a train. Thaddeus had noticed her and she could feel him headed her way.
'slow down' her mind was at war with her feet. Mai made a noise of impatience at the whole idea of arguing with decorum; and was reminded of the saying
'We are fools whether we dance or not, so we might as well dance.'
It did not matter to her what those around her thought so she quit trying to do otherwise as soon as she was near enough to make it very apparent who they were headed towards; Mai then let go of Aishe's hand lest she pull the poor woman over and hurried the last few steps to her Ba-di and wrapped her arms around him.
"Konbanwa....Thaddeus-san"
She remembered again at the last moment and also remembered not to lay her head against him lest her make up lest she mar his lovely outfit. She tilted her head back and smiled up at him.
"It is good to see you."
Mai thought it best not to say she missed him; it would not be fair to make him feel guilty for growing up and having less time for her with all the things that were happening in his life, still she couldn't seem to let him go for the moment.
"Konbanwa Alfarinn-san."
She beamed a smile up at the tall norseman and then finally stood back to introduce her friend.
"This is Aishe-chan, she is a new friend. We must speak with you somewhere better suited to talking. A place without so many ears."
Thaddeus Grey
18 years ago
Alfarinn
18 years ago
Alfarinn looked over at Thaddeus and reached for his hand. This was a night they had planned to spend together simply enjoying themselves and he felt a bit guilty for them ending up taking care of Evenhet business in the middle of it. No doubt they had already missed dinner.
Pulling his companion close, he sent
[Yes, we'll look into who she has talked to. MARI is actually very good with asking all the pertinent questions so perhaps that would be best.]
Thaddeus seemed repulsed by the act of biting Aishe and Alfarinn found himself confused. Certainly biting a human didn't bother him, what else would he feed on? It was not the first time it had been witnessed either but Alfarinn would allow that they were both so worn out the night Lykaios died that there might have been a certain numbness to the experience.
Was it the fact that the act was normally private? He'd agree that it was better done in a less open place but a taste was hardly feeding on her and it would be better to clear up whatever doubts he had as quickly as possible so that they could move forward. There wasn't any jealousy that he sensed and that was good though in a way he thought he'd rather Thaddeus be somewhat jealous at the somewhat intimate gesture than somehow disgusted with it.
Frowning a moment longer in confusion, a good deal more self conscious than he was a minute ago, he looked up and said.
"Well we've been away from the party far too long. No doubt people will be missing us. Shall we head back upstairs?"
Smiling back at Mai, he asked.
"Care to join us, Mai-sama?"
[Still care to dance with me? I think we might be able to manage such thing.]
Pulling his companion close, he sent
[Yes, we'll look into who she has talked to. MARI is actually very good with asking all the pertinent questions so perhaps that would be best.]
Thaddeus seemed repulsed by the act of biting Aishe and Alfarinn found himself confused. Certainly biting a human didn't bother him, what else would he feed on? It was not the first time it had been witnessed either but Alfarinn would allow that they were both so worn out the night Lykaios died that there might have been a certain numbness to the experience.
Was it the fact that the act was normally private? He'd agree that it was better done in a less open place but a taste was hardly feeding on her and it would be better to clear up whatever doubts he had as quickly as possible so that they could move forward. There wasn't any jealousy that he sensed and that was good though in a way he thought he'd rather Thaddeus be somewhat jealous at the somewhat intimate gesture than somehow disgusted with it.
Frowning a moment longer in confusion, a good deal more self conscious than he was a minute ago, he looked up and said.
"Well we've been away from the party far too long. No doubt people will be missing us. Shall we head back upstairs?"
Smiling back at Mai, he asked.
"Care to join us, Mai-sama?"
[Still care to dance with me? I think we might be able to manage such thing.]
Mai
18 years ago
Mai watched with interest. Alfarinn's bite was gentle and done with great care; she wondered if he was always like that and felt that he probably was. The two blondes were well matched; her Ba-di was so very careful when he hunted and very graceful. It was sometimes a shame Thaddeus had taken to the Order of the Night instead of her own; watching him hunt was always a pleasure, though she took care not to intrude too closely.
She tilted her head up again at Alfarinn's question. Shaking her head slightly, Mai smiled.
"I will stay here awhile."
Nodding to the others and giving Thaddeus another small smile, Mai waited until Aishe and Alfarinn had turned to leave and then quietly stepped off the railing. She landed softly on the ground several stories below, her red robes settling delicately on the green strip of lawn.
((OOC: Mai's thoughts on Thaddeus's habits with permission. Mai out ))
She tilted her head up again at Alfarinn's question. Shaking her head slightly, Mai smiled.
"I will stay here awhile."
Nodding to the others and giving Thaddeus another small smile, Mai waited until Aishe and Alfarinn had turned to leave and then quietly stepped off the railing. She landed softly on the ground several stories below, her red robes settling delicately on the green strip of lawn.
((OOC: Mai's thoughts on Thaddeus's habits with permission. Mai out ))
Thaddeus Grey
18 years ago
Thaddeus sighed inwardly at the sense of confusion and awkward embarrassment from Alfarinn, realizing that he had inadvertently made his companion uncomfortable. Alfarinn had been just fine with biting Aishe until he’d had to go and bring his personal eccentricities into matters. Feeling guilty and wondering just what Alfarinn must think of him, he bit down on his lip, uncertain.
He would not change being bonded with Alfarinn for the world, even knowing that his companion would see parts of him he was not exactly proud of. Even so, it was a bit intimidating to have one’s oddities so exposed. He should have realized that Alfarinn was quite likely going to find out about his habits sooner or later, but had, he supposed, been avoiding that particular issue.
He leaned into Alfarinn’s shoulder, pleased to have the contact, and firmly told himself to stop indulging in this absurd behavior at once. For good or ill this was part of who he was and he knew he needed to stop being so self conscious about the whole matter. His strong aversion to humans who weren’t spotlessly clean was something that had made him an outcast from the beginning, and he knew he couldn’t expect others to understand, but he should at least explain this part of himself to his companion and hope he accepted that.
And hadn’t he just advised Aishe not to apologize for who you were?
[I know it’s likely a bit strange, considering we…well, we drink blood after all, you wouldn’t think it would bother me so much but…I was just thinking that railing Aishe was holding on to didn’t look particularly clean. The dirt just…bothers me. Greatly.]
Realizing he was now blushing in spite of his resolution to not be embarrassed, he ducked his head a bit, wishing he had not tied back his hair as in its current state it might actually work to hide a blush.
[I realize it’s odd to be so…fussy…about such matters, especially at times like these, but, well, that’s…me.]
He smiled at the offer to dance, pleased beyond measure at the thought though he was still a bit unnerved.
[I would very much like that.]
He hoped that Mai might join the party again this evening and wondered if she might dance if he were to ask, though he could appreciate wanting to stay outside at least for a bit.
Partly as a gesture of good will toward Aishe and partly as a sort of a peace offering to Alfarinn, he offered Aishe his arm.
“Let’s.”
He looked over his shoulder and smiled softly at Mai.
“Thank you.”
He would not change being bonded with Alfarinn for the world, even knowing that his companion would see parts of him he was not exactly proud of. Even so, it was a bit intimidating to have one’s oddities so exposed. He should have realized that Alfarinn was quite likely going to find out about his habits sooner or later, but had, he supposed, been avoiding that particular issue.
He leaned into Alfarinn’s shoulder, pleased to have the contact, and firmly told himself to stop indulging in this absurd behavior at once. For good or ill this was part of who he was and he knew he needed to stop being so self conscious about the whole matter. His strong aversion to humans who weren’t spotlessly clean was something that had made him an outcast from the beginning, and he knew he couldn’t expect others to understand, but he should at least explain this part of himself to his companion and hope he accepted that.
And hadn’t he just advised Aishe not to apologize for who you were?
[I know it’s likely a bit strange, considering we…well, we drink blood after all, you wouldn’t think it would bother me so much but…I was just thinking that railing Aishe was holding on to didn’t look particularly clean. The dirt just…bothers me. Greatly.]
Realizing he was now blushing in spite of his resolution to not be embarrassed, he ducked his head a bit, wishing he had not tied back his hair as in its current state it might actually work to hide a blush.
[I realize it’s odd to be so…fussy…about such matters, especially at times like these, but, well, that’s…me.]
He smiled at the offer to dance, pleased beyond measure at the thought though he was still a bit unnerved.
[I would very much like that.]
He hoped that Mai might join the party again this evening and wondered if she might dance if he were to ask, though he could appreciate wanting to stay outside at least for a bit.
Partly as a gesture of good will toward Aishe and partly as a sort of a peace offering to Alfarinn, he offered Aishe his arm.
“Let’s.”
He looked over his shoulder and smiled softly at Mai.
“Thank you.”
Aishe
18 years ago
Aishe somehow managed not to flinch when she felt the sharp little sting of her skin being pierced. It certainly was a sensitive spot, although any reaction she might have had was shortly overridden by a familiar sense of pleasure.
I wonder if that always happens? She thought, having very little experience in being bitten.
She wasn't exactly sure what that actually verified, but as Alfarinn straightened and took possession of her arm she decided it was best to ask fewer questions rather than more. Although, she realized, the past few minutes had certainly brought more questions to mind than she'd even had before coming down to the balcony.
It seemed to be no real surprise that she'd been sharing Kem's dream or thinking she heard his voice in her head. Was that normal, then? Certainly no one had suggested she visit a psychiatrist, which in a little corner of her mind she'd expected. That was just stress though, perhaps. Her mind might just be playing tricks on her... though the practical woman had been stressed before without hearing or seeing odd things.
There hadn't been many words exchanged outside on the balcony since she'd told her story, but somehow she still got the feeling they were talking to each other. Not possible, she told herself again. You're overreacting. There's much to be said for a significant glance or two, after all.
Aishe hadn't planned on returning to the party quite so soon, for she badly wanted to collapse and give her head time to stop spinning, but she found herself turning back toward the doors with Alfarinn anyhow. She gave Mai one last tremulous smile and bowed as best she could in thanks, turning again to find Thaddeus' arm being offered as well.
Since she wasn't sure exactly how her voice would sound right about now, she simply kept quiet and took it with a little nod of compliance. She'd kept them both busy with work, when a party was clearly time for play. And although she herself felt she would be particularly bad company at the moment, she could find an out-of-the-way corner to sit in and watch the goings-on quietly.
For now Aishe simply accompanied Alfarinn and Thaddeus without words, well aware at least of the fact that she'd just placed herself into their hands. Whatever the implications of that fact were, it would do her no good to balk at the prospect now, even if she were inclined.
Apparently she'd run out of stubbornness for the night - but that was all right with her. She was making progress.
I wonder if that always happens? She thought, having very little experience in being bitten.
She wasn't exactly sure what that actually verified, but as Alfarinn straightened and took possession of her arm she decided it was best to ask fewer questions rather than more. Although, she realized, the past few minutes had certainly brought more questions to mind than she'd even had before coming down to the balcony.
It seemed to be no real surprise that she'd been sharing Kem's dream or thinking she heard his voice in her head. Was that normal, then? Certainly no one had suggested she visit a psychiatrist, which in a little corner of her mind she'd expected. That was just stress though, perhaps. Her mind might just be playing tricks on her... though the practical woman had been stressed before without hearing or seeing odd things.
There hadn't been many words exchanged outside on the balcony since she'd told her story, but somehow she still got the feeling they were talking to each other. Not possible, she told herself again. You're overreacting. There's much to be said for a significant glance or two, after all.
Aishe hadn't planned on returning to the party quite so soon, for she badly wanted to collapse and give her head time to stop spinning, but she found herself turning back toward the doors with Alfarinn anyhow. She gave Mai one last tremulous smile and bowed as best she could in thanks, turning again to find Thaddeus' arm being offered as well.
Since she wasn't sure exactly how her voice would sound right about now, she simply kept quiet and took it with a little nod of compliance. She'd kept them both busy with work, when a party was clearly time for play. And although she herself felt she would be particularly bad company at the moment, she could find an out-of-the-way corner to sit in and watch the goings-on quietly.
For now Aishe simply accompanied Alfarinn and Thaddeus without words, well aware at least of the fact that she'd just placed herself into their hands. Whatever the implications of that fact were, it would do her no good to balk at the prospect now, even if she were inclined.
Apparently she'd run out of stubbornness for the night - but that was all right with her. She was making progress.
Alfarinn
18 years ago
Alfarinn listened to Thaddeus with a growing sense of renewed good cheer; it would seem that it had not been the simple act of biting Aishe that bothered him but the possible dirt and germs on the railing. He stuck the tip of his tongue out experimentally and wiped his lips
[Ah well we have wonderful immune systems, vampires, I think I shall survive whatever might be on it.]
He smiled inwardly at his companion and squeezed his hand reassuringly.
[ I think it is a perfectly reasonable concern, Thaddeus, I suppose my older nature doesn't take in the thought of germs though I will admit to finding dirty people to be something I cannot tolerate. I moved away from Europe during the Dark Ages for that very reason; it was disgusting how rarely people bathed. Now during your own time it was difficult to find someone that was wasged but not wearing powder. Horrible stuff, it made me sneeze. Aishe, however, seems to be a very clean woman, dirty railing aside, and smells of...vanilla.]
Alfarinn took a last glance at Mai and then turned back towards the door.
[I don't begrudge you you're quirks and habits, Beloved, I was merely confused. I had thought I had done something that made you uncomfortable in some way, something inappropriate. ]
He was very much glad that this had not been the case and finding out the reason for his companion's emotions put him once more at ease. Alfarinn was even glad that he had learned this new piece of information about Thaddeus as his companion and his ways were ever of interest to him. It was somehow like Thaddeus and just made perfect sense he found himself surprised that he didn't figure out the reason for Thaddeus's discomfort on his own. Alfarinn guessed he simply jumped to the worst conclusion possible, a fear that he had done something to offend.
[ We all have our odd habits and I find this one of yours as charming as the rest.]
They walked back up the stairs towards the ballroom with Thaddeus in the middle and Alfarinn couldn't help but look forward to finally getting a chance to dance with his partner. He hoped Aishe wouldn't mind the both of them slipping away for a moment. Perhaps he should introduce her to Artemis...no that wouldn't do, fear of death may not have deterred her but a few of the Roman's pranks might. It would be better to find someone safer to entrust her company to in the beginning. Danielle came immediately to mind, the woman would make anyone feel at ease and being with someone that was not a vampire might be a comfort to the newest member of Evenhet.
With that thought in mind, he found them at the entrance to the ballroom once more.
[Ah well we have wonderful immune systems, vampires, I think I shall survive whatever might be on it.]
He smiled inwardly at his companion and squeezed his hand reassuringly.
[ I think it is a perfectly reasonable concern, Thaddeus, I suppose my older nature doesn't take in the thought of germs though I will admit to finding dirty people to be something I cannot tolerate. I moved away from Europe during the Dark Ages for that very reason; it was disgusting how rarely people bathed. Now during your own time it was difficult to find someone that was wasged but not wearing powder. Horrible stuff, it made me sneeze. Aishe, however, seems to be a very clean woman, dirty railing aside, and smells of...vanilla.]
Alfarinn took a last glance at Mai and then turned back towards the door.
[I don't begrudge you you're quirks and habits, Beloved, I was merely confused. I had thought I had done something that made you uncomfortable in some way, something inappropriate. ]
He was very much glad that this had not been the case and finding out the reason for his companion's emotions put him once more at ease. Alfarinn was even glad that he had learned this new piece of information about Thaddeus as his companion and his ways were ever of interest to him. It was somehow like Thaddeus and just made perfect sense he found himself surprised that he didn't figure out the reason for Thaddeus's discomfort on his own. Alfarinn guessed he simply jumped to the worst conclusion possible, a fear that he had done something to offend.
[ We all have our odd habits and I find this one of yours as charming as the rest.]
They walked back up the stairs towards the ballroom with Thaddeus in the middle and Alfarinn couldn't help but look forward to finally getting a chance to dance with his partner. He hoped Aishe wouldn't mind the both of them slipping away for a moment. Perhaps he should introduce her to Artemis...no that wouldn't do, fear of death may not have deterred her but a few of the Roman's pranks might. It would be better to find someone safer to entrust her company to in the beginning. Danielle came immediately to mind, the woman would make anyone feel at ease and being with someone that was not a vampire might be a comfort to the newest member of Evenhet.
With that thought in mind, he found them at the entrance to the ballroom once more.
Thaddeus Grey
18 years ago
Thaddeus gave a little shrug, still feeling sheepish though he was smiling now as Alfarinn spoke to him.
[That is one thing I can say for modern times; showers are a simply marvelous invention.] Lest his companion think he was disparaging the newly adopted Evenhet, he continued, turning to give Aishe a reassuring glance as they made their way up the stairs. [Yes, I imagine she is quite clean; I’ll freely admit I’m occasionally irrational regarding such matters.]
He gave Alfarinn’s hand a return squeeze, regretful of making his companion feel anything less than completely loved.
[Not at all; the idea hadn’t occurred to me but I’m glad you considered a way to check her story and acted on that. It does make me somewhat less worried.]
The thought of a human with a penchant for poking around other people’s computer files and bringing up clan names god only knew where was still somewhat unsettling, but at least they seemed to have things under a semblance of control now. He could only thank the stars she had encountered Mai, then Alfarinn, before terrible damage had been wrought.
He did his best not to blush at Alfarinn’s assessment of his habits, sending:
[I don’t know that my habits have ever been described thus, though I think I shall be content that I haven’t frightened you away. You are truly a brave soul, bearing with me this way.]
Content now, his earlier discomfort all but forgotten, he spotted Dani and Claire approaching and grinned in approval of their costumes.
“It seems we have company.”
Nodding to the two ladies as they approached, his eye happened to catch another interesting sight. Alfarinn’s friend Artemis appeared to be dancing…after a fashion…with a petite woman in blue.
[Artemis…appears to be enjoying himself…]
He turned his attention back to the two ladies, waiting for them to get closer before speaking but offering up a welcoming smile.
[That is one thing I can say for modern times; showers are a simply marvelous invention.] Lest his companion think he was disparaging the newly adopted Evenhet, he continued, turning to give Aishe a reassuring glance as they made their way up the stairs. [Yes, I imagine she is quite clean; I’ll freely admit I’m occasionally irrational regarding such matters.]
He gave Alfarinn’s hand a return squeeze, regretful of making his companion feel anything less than completely loved.
[Not at all; the idea hadn’t occurred to me but I’m glad you considered a way to check her story and acted on that. It does make me somewhat less worried.]
The thought of a human with a penchant for poking around other people’s computer files and bringing up clan names god only knew where was still somewhat unsettling, but at least they seemed to have things under a semblance of control now. He could only thank the stars she had encountered Mai, then Alfarinn, before terrible damage had been wrought.
He did his best not to blush at Alfarinn’s assessment of his habits, sending:
[I don’t know that my habits have ever been described thus, though I think I shall be content that I haven’t frightened you away. You are truly a brave soul, bearing with me this way.]
Content now, his earlier discomfort all but forgotten, he spotted Dani and Claire approaching and grinned in approval of their costumes.
“It seems we have company.”
Nodding to the two ladies as they approached, his eye happened to catch another interesting sight. Alfarinn’s friend Artemis appeared to be dancing…after a fashion…with a petite woman in blue.
[Artemis…appears to be enjoying himself…]
He turned his attention back to the two ladies, waiting for them to get closer before speaking but offering up a welcoming smile.
Aishe
18 years ago
As they entered the ballroom again, Aishe noticed the party seemed to have picked up considerably. Many couples had decided to brave the dance floor... some braver than others, she thought with amusement, noticing a long-haired man in roman clothing doing... was that the Butt? She'd seen it all now!
As soon as she thought that, fate turned the tables as something small zinged through the air out of the corner of her eye. She pretended not to notice the tiny projectile, far away as it was, and tried to keep a straight face although the corner of her lips twitched up a bit.
Her attention wavered as she noticed two women apparently headed in their direction. One was about the same height as her, with short brown hair, in burgundy and white. The other, pretty in blue and gold, was tale and pale, with hair as black as Aishe's own. She looked at the two men on either side of her, who seemed to know them, and wondered somewhere in the back of her head if the two women were humans or vampires. Then she shook her head at herself. It really didn't matter.
Dinner appeared to have been served already, but she wasn't really hungry. She mostly wanted to sit someplace quiet and consider the implications of what had just happened outside, but that would have to wait. She held her left hand in a fist and tucked it into the white linen of her outfit to hide what had diminished into a small bruise from Alfarinn's bite and smiled a little shyly at the approaching ladies.
As soon as she thought that, fate turned the tables as something small zinged through the air out of the corner of her eye. She pretended not to notice the tiny projectile, far away as it was, and tried to keep a straight face although the corner of her lips twitched up a bit.
Her attention wavered as she noticed two women apparently headed in their direction. One was about the same height as her, with short brown hair, in burgundy and white. The other, pretty in blue and gold, was tale and pale, with hair as black as Aishe's own. She looked at the two men on either side of her, who seemed to know them, and wondered somewhere in the back of her head if the two women were humans or vampires. Then she shook her head at herself. It really didn't matter.
Dinner appeared to have been served already, but she wasn't really hungry. She mostly wanted to sit someplace quiet and consider the implications of what had just happened outside, but that would have to wait. She held her left hand in a fist and tucked it into the white linen of her outfit to hide what had diminished into a small bruise from Alfarinn's bite and smiled a little shyly at the approaching ladies.
Alfarinn
18 years ago
[ Bravery is it? Well call it what you will but I find myself unable to get enough of you and your habits. ]
Alfarinn looked around the room for Dani and managed to catch Artemis doing what appeared to be dances through the ages; though he was not quite certain about one or two of them.
[So it would seem and he doesn't even appear to be all that intoxicated. ]
He grinned at his friend wondering at the woman Artemis seemed to be entertaining or impressing with that unique display of talent. Perhaps they would get the chance to meet the woman that was likely responsible for coaxing Zone out of his lab for the evening.
Turning his gaze towards the ladies coming towards them, Alfarinn's smile widened.
"Just the person I wanted to see! You two look lovely this evening. Good evening Claire and Dani. This is Aishe. Aishe, meet Danielle, my personal assistant at Meridian and the one responsible for keeping me from looking like a total loon in public and the beautiful Claire who has been an angel of kindness to us recently."Â?
He gave Danielle a pointed glance and continued.
"Aishe is a friend of Kem's and is coming to stay with us to learn more about the history of the company and some of the other opportunities we offer so she's the newest member of our 'family'. I was wondering if you could help her get acquainted with MARI when we get back to the Towers."Â?
Alfarinn saw several of his body guards standing along the sides of the room speaking quietly into the little ear pieces and felt chagrin at having forgotten to arrange for his safety again. It was a good thing Dani kept track of these situations or he would have likely blown his public identity a long time ago. She truly cared for him and he found it amazing; somehow he'd let someone wonderful like her into his self-destructive life. His lasting friendship with Artemis and his new found love with Thaddeus proved that these things did manage to slip past his defenses from time to time for his own good.
Turning to Aishe, he said.
"I believe you'll find Dani is able to answer any question you might have and more than likely you'll find her company far more congenial than my own."Â?
Alfarinn looked around the room for Dani and managed to catch Artemis doing what appeared to be dances through the ages; though he was not quite certain about one or two of them.
[So it would seem and he doesn't even appear to be all that intoxicated. ]
He grinned at his friend wondering at the woman Artemis seemed to be entertaining or impressing with that unique display of talent. Perhaps they would get the chance to meet the woman that was likely responsible for coaxing Zone out of his lab for the evening.
Turning his gaze towards the ladies coming towards them, Alfarinn's smile widened.
"Just the person I wanted to see! You two look lovely this evening. Good evening Claire and Dani. This is Aishe. Aishe, meet Danielle, my personal assistant at Meridian and the one responsible for keeping me from looking like a total loon in public and the beautiful Claire who has been an angel of kindness to us recently."Â?
He gave Danielle a pointed glance and continued.
"Aishe is a friend of Kem's and is coming to stay with us to learn more about the history of the company and some of the other opportunities we offer so she's the newest member of our 'family'. I was wondering if you could help her get acquainted with MARI when we get back to the Towers."Â?
Alfarinn saw several of his body guards standing along the sides of the room speaking quietly into the little ear pieces and felt chagrin at having forgotten to arrange for his safety again. It was a good thing Dani kept track of these situations or he would have likely blown his public identity a long time ago. She truly cared for him and he found it amazing; somehow he'd let someone wonderful like her into his self-destructive life. His lasting friendship with Artemis and his new found love with Thaddeus proved that these things did manage to slip past his defenses from time to time for his own good.
Turning to Aishe, he said.
"I believe you'll find Dani is able to answer any question you might have and more than likely you'll find her company far more congenial than my own."Â?
Aishe
18 years ago
Aishe released Alfarinn's arm, stepping away a bit. She was full of yet more questions... the towers? Later tonight? But those could all wait. She was reluctant to impose upon too many more people this night, and it seemed she would be doing so to Danielle and Claire now.
She regarded Danielle with curiosity. Alfarinn had spoken to her about Kem with familiarity. Did Danielle also know him? Then again, if she were Alfarinn's personal assistant she must already have a great deal of knowledge about the people who worked for him and anyone he spent time with.
She felt her cheeks beginning to grow red as she contemplated her actions since arriving in the city. A very large part of her wanted to plaster itself to the nearest wall and revert to being a wallflower. It was like this a lot; during the moments when Kem was invading her head, she did and said things she normally wouldn't, consumed by a drive to find him and help him. Then, when it went away she felt more like herself - quiet, more used to observing than acting, and embarrassed at the way she must look to others.
Aishe bit her lip, which was still sore from before, and then extended her hand to Danielle with a smile at Claire as well.
"Â?Nice to meet you,"Â? she said.
She regarded Alfarinn and Thaddeus once more. "Â?Thank you both very much, for everything. I'm sorry to have taken you from the party for so long, but you can't imagine how much I appreciate your listening to me tonight."Â?
She regarded Danielle with curiosity. Alfarinn had spoken to her about Kem with familiarity. Did Danielle also know him? Then again, if she were Alfarinn's personal assistant she must already have a great deal of knowledge about the people who worked for him and anyone he spent time with.
She felt her cheeks beginning to grow red as she contemplated her actions since arriving in the city. A very large part of her wanted to plaster itself to the nearest wall and revert to being a wallflower. It was like this a lot; during the moments when Kem was invading her head, she did and said things she normally wouldn't, consumed by a drive to find him and help him. Then, when it went away she felt more like herself - quiet, more used to observing than acting, and embarrassed at the way she must look to others.
Aishe bit her lip, which was still sore from before, and then extended her hand to Danielle with a smile at Claire as well.
"Â?Nice to meet you,"Â? she said.
She regarded Alfarinn and Thaddeus once more. "Â?Thank you both very much, for everything. I'm sorry to have taken you from the party for so long, but you can't imagine how much I appreciate your listening to me tonight."Â?
Danielle
18 years ago
Danielle walked up to Arin and Thaddeus quickly, smiling at the compliment while taking in the three costumes. Fortunately, the issue of not knowing the woman with them was remedied reasonably quickly.
“Why thank you! Claire picked ours out tonight, though I suppose that’s probably obvious. And may I say you three are looking well yourselves!”
One of the many appealing things about working for Meridian was the interesting little additions of Norse culture; it added such a unique family sort of feel to the business, something that made them stand out, and she was pleased to see Arin looking very much the part tonight. Thaddeus, she noticed, did well with the clothing from his apparent era, and Aishe looked extremely convincing and quite lovely in her Egyptian costume. She beamed a smile at her unlikely twin, then turned to Aishe and shook the offered hand.
“Lovely to meet you, Aishe.”
She listened as Arin continued, considering the information he had offered up. A friend of Kem’s? That was good news in and of itself, and she wondered if Aishe had seen the Egyptian recently.
She made a little shooing motion toward Arin and Thaddeus. Those two really should have a little time to enjoy themselves, after all.
“You kids have fun.”
She grinned at her own comment, as these two were hardly kids, then turned her attention back to Aishe and Claire.
“Well, shall we then? Would you two like to get our own table and chat or was there someone you’d like to join?”
MARI could take care of quite a bit of the information Aishe would need but Dani was, as always, glad to help in any way she could. It was, however, likely best to allow Aishe to lead on, as only so much could be revealed in such a public setting.
“Why thank you! Claire picked ours out tonight, though I suppose that’s probably obvious. And may I say you three are looking well yourselves!”
One of the many appealing things about working for Meridian was the interesting little additions of Norse culture; it added such a unique family sort of feel to the business, something that made them stand out, and she was pleased to see Arin looking very much the part tonight. Thaddeus, she noticed, did well with the clothing from his apparent era, and Aishe looked extremely convincing and quite lovely in her Egyptian costume. She beamed a smile at her unlikely twin, then turned to Aishe and shook the offered hand.
“Lovely to meet you, Aishe.”
She listened as Arin continued, considering the information he had offered up. A friend of Kem’s? That was good news in and of itself, and she wondered if Aishe had seen the Egyptian recently.
She made a little shooing motion toward Arin and Thaddeus. Those two really should have a little time to enjoy themselves, after all.
“You kids have fun.”
She grinned at her own comment, as these two were hardly kids, then turned her attention back to Aishe and Claire.
“Well, shall we then? Would you two like to get our own table and chat or was there someone you’d like to join?”
MARI could take care of quite a bit of the information Aishe would need but Dani was, as always, glad to help in any way she could. It was, however, likely best to allow Aishe to lead on, as only so much could be revealed in such a public setting.
Claire
18 years ago
Claire smiled when she saw who they were headed towards; she was not the most social of people on her own impulses so she was happy to see two people who were already familiar.
The Egyptian that was with Alfarinn and Thaddeus was a different story and she wondered just exactly what the Evenhet's odd introduction meant. Was she a vampire or human? Claire got the impression that the girl was knowledgeable of them at the very least and that his wording had been meant for those that might have a chance to overhear.
Blushing slightly at his unexpected praise and thanks, Claire stood stunned by the attention a moment before realizing she should say something by way of greeting.
"Enchanté Aishe"
She turned to the two men and smiled.
"You both look marvelous. Thaddeus, green looks stunning on you. I always did love that era for the way the men looked so dashing in the fashion."
Alfarinn's own clothing had been before her time but the shade of blue that he chose looked wonderful with his light blonde hair. The soft leather pants appeared to be comfortable and she noted they were complimentary to his form in ways that she felt Thaddeus would not approve of her mentioning. Blushing all the more at this line of observation, Claire looked at the floor for a moment, deciding that further comment along those lines would be dangerous to her dignity and so instead she focused her attention on Dani's question .
"I think a table would be lovely."
The Egyptian that was with Alfarinn and Thaddeus was a different story and she wondered just exactly what the Evenhet's odd introduction meant. Was she a vampire or human? Claire got the impression that the girl was knowledgeable of them at the very least and that his wording had been meant for those that might have a chance to overhear.
Blushing slightly at his unexpected praise and thanks, Claire stood stunned by the attention a moment before realizing she should say something by way of greeting.
"Enchanté Aishe"
She turned to the two men and smiled.
"You both look marvelous. Thaddeus, green looks stunning on you. I always did love that era for the way the men looked so dashing in the fashion."
Alfarinn's own clothing had been before her time but the shade of blue that he chose looked wonderful with his light blonde hair. The soft leather pants appeared to be comfortable and she noted they were complimentary to his form in ways that she felt Thaddeus would not approve of her mentioning. Blushing all the more at this line of observation, Claire looked at the floor for a moment, deciding that further comment along those lines would be dangerous to her dignity and so instead she focused her attention on Dani's question .
"I think a table would be lovely."
Thaddeus Grey
18 years ago
Thaddeus let a mischievous smirk cross his features before schooling his expression back to its usual calm, though this evening he seemed much more inclined overall to be smiling.
[Some habits, I imagine, are better than others. Our water conservation habits are particularly beneficial, by way of example.]
Nodding after introductions went around, he smiled openly, pleased to see his clanmate again and finding it was much more pleasant to see both ladies under much better circumstances.
He was about to offer up his own greetings, but found Claire’s compliment had rendered him a bit speechless and blushing besides. He regarded her wordlessly for a moment, trying to form a coherent sentence. She had, he noticed, chosen well this evening; the shade of blue she wore was reminiscent of the ocean, and complimented her eyes in a way that was...startlingly familiar. He wondered how he could have missed the resemblance to Emma, though upon further thought he realized they really didn’t look much alike at all. There was something about Claire, something in the eyes, in the bearing, and in a certain light it was quite striking, like seeing random black and white shapes come together to form a picture of something meaningful out of the corner of one’s eye.
Realizing that his composure was slipping, he smiled and spoke, hoping his somewhat awkward pause had gone unnoticed.
“You look positively enchanting; your taste has served the both of you well indeed.”
He raised one eyebrow at Dani’s apparent dismissal, inwardly amused, then gave Claire a little shrug, supposing they had not exactly been subtle about wanting to enjoy each other’s company this evening.
[Dani does seem quick on the uptake, doesn’t she.]
Still wearing a somewhat bemused expression, he turned to Alfarinn, speaking now.
“Well, I suppose that would be our cue to go and leave the ladies to become better acquainted.”
He wondered just how Claire would feel about spending the evening in the company of two humans, but it seemed she was getting along famously with Dani if the wardrobe choice and the fact that they had come together was any indication. Anantya had a broad spectrum of beliefs, and as much as they leaned toward the conservative when it came to relating with humans, one could find any number of outlooks on that matter within the clan.
Giving Alfarinn’s hand a squeeze and seeing that the ladies were well on their way to heading off on their own, he turned to his companion with a soft smile on his face.
[Shall we?]
[Some habits, I imagine, are better than others. Our water conservation habits are particularly beneficial, by way of example.]
Nodding after introductions went around, he smiled openly, pleased to see his clanmate again and finding it was much more pleasant to see both ladies under much better circumstances.
He was about to offer up his own greetings, but found Claire’s compliment had rendered him a bit speechless and blushing besides. He regarded her wordlessly for a moment, trying to form a coherent sentence. She had, he noticed, chosen well this evening; the shade of blue she wore was reminiscent of the ocean, and complimented her eyes in a way that was...startlingly familiar. He wondered how he could have missed the resemblance to Emma, though upon further thought he realized they really didn’t look much alike at all. There was something about Claire, something in the eyes, in the bearing, and in a certain light it was quite striking, like seeing random black and white shapes come together to form a picture of something meaningful out of the corner of one’s eye.
Realizing that his composure was slipping, he smiled and spoke, hoping his somewhat awkward pause had gone unnoticed.
“You look positively enchanting; your taste has served the both of you well indeed.”
He raised one eyebrow at Dani’s apparent dismissal, inwardly amused, then gave Claire a little shrug, supposing they had not exactly been subtle about wanting to enjoy each other’s company this evening.
[Dani does seem quick on the uptake, doesn’t she.]
Still wearing a somewhat bemused expression, he turned to Alfarinn, speaking now.
“Well, I suppose that would be our cue to go and leave the ladies to become better acquainted.”
He wondered just how Claire would feel about spending the evening in the company of two humans, but it seemed she was getting along famously with Dani if the wardrobe choice and the fact that they had come together was any indication. Anantya had a broad spectrum of beliefs, and as much as they leaned toward the conservative when it came to relating with humans, one could find any number of outlooks on that matter within the clan.
Giving Alfarinn’s hand a squeeze and seeing that the ladies were well on their way to heading off on their own, he turned to his companion with a soft smile on his face.
[Shall we?]
Alfarinn
18 years ago
Alfarinn smiled and bit the inside of his cheek in an effort to show no outward sign of his companion's remark. He listened to the further greetings and noticed Claire's blush with sympathetic amusement. Her own compliments seemed to have stopped Thaddeus in his tracks and Alfarinn turned to find his companion blushing as well. Claire was absolutely correct though, Thaddeus -did- look stunning.
He wondered briefly what caused his companion to be startled, certainly it wasn't her compliment, no... the reaction came later. Whatever it was seemed to have caused Thaddeus no grief so he let it pass.
Shaking his head at Dani's dismissal, Alfarinn leaned down and gave her a kiss on the cheek.
"You are too good to me."
He smiled at her and waved a little good bye to the others.
[That she is, very little gets past her. ]
"It would seem so. Enjoy yourselves. "
Alfarinn led them out on the dance floor, smiling in amusement at being sent off to go play.
[You know, you look every inch the Lord tonight, Thaddeus; Claire is quite right. ]
On this occasion he could not imagine anyone giving his companion the title Lord Grey without meaning it in the most respectfull of ways.
He was amazed when they made it without incident over to a space near where Artemis and his lady friend, which appeared to be PakPao, one of the programmers of Evenhet, were busy doing something Alfarinn felt it best not to take note of. Hmmm, He didn't know they were friends; Alfarinn's eyes narrowed, that would explain a lot of things about MARI. Zone's trouble making influence seems to have spread to another person. He dreaded to think of what pranks the software specialist and the hardware specialist combined could dream up.
((OOC: Both out ))
He wondered briefly what caused his companion to be startled, certainly it wasn't her compliment, no... the reaction came later. Whatever it was seemed to have caused Thaddeus no grief so he let it pass.
Shaking his head at Dani's dismissal, Alfarinn leaned down and gave her a kiss on the cheek.
"You are too good to me."
He smiled at her and waved a little good bye to the others.
[That she is, very little gets past her. ]
"It would seem so. Enjoy yourselves. "
Alfarinn led them out on the dance floor, smiling in amusement at being sent off to go play.
[You know, you look every inch the Lord tonight, Thaddeus; Claire is quite right. ]
On this occasion he could not imagine anyone giving his companion the title Lord Grey without meaning it in the most respectfull of ways.
He was amazed when they made it without incident over to a space near where Artemis and his lady friend, which appeared to be PakPao, one of the programmers of Evenhet, were busy doing something Alfarinn felt it best not to take note of. Hmmm, He didn't know they were friends; Alfarinn's eyes narrowed, that would explain a lot of things about MARI. Zone's trouble making influence seems to have spread to another person. He dreaded to think of what pranks the software specialist and the hardware specialist combined could dream up.
((OOC: Both out ))
Aishe
18 years ago
Aishe nodded in agreement with Claire. "A table sounds just fine."Â?
She watched Alfarinn and Thaddeus leave with a little pang of something... maybe envy. There were two people together, obviously enjoying each others' company, and if they had worries and cares they'd certainly managed to let them go for a night. She bit back a wistful little sigh.
Turning back to Danielle and Claire, she had to ask, "Ah... what did he mean by back at the Towers? And who is MARI?"Â?
She was slightly confused over that exchange, and she should have waited until they actually reached a table, she supposed, but she had so many questions right now that one or two were bound to boil over.
Aishe wasn't sure exactly what was all right to ask, and what wasn't, in this setting. She quickly tried to think of a way to explain why she was here and do it in such a way so as to prevent any wandering ears from hearing something they shouldn't. She moved a bit closer to Danielle to let someone by, and cast her eyes around the room for a free table.
((ooc: feel free to drag Aishe along to wherever looks good.))
She watched Alfarinn and Thaddeus leave with a little pang of something... maybe envy. There were two people together, obviously enjoying each others' company, and if they had worries and cares they'd certainly managed to let them go for a night. She bit back a wistful little sigh.
Turning back to Danielle and Claire, she had to ask, "Ah... what did he mean by back at the Towers? And who is MARI?"Â?
She was slightly confused over that exchange, and she should have waited until they actually reached a table, she supposed, but she had so many questions right now that one or two were bound to boil over.
Aishe wasn't sure exactly what was all right to ask, and what wasn't, in this setting. She quickly tried to think of a way to explain why she was here and do it in such a way so as to prevent any wandering ears from hearing something they shouldn't. She moved a bit closer to Danielle to let someone by, and cast her eyes around the room for a free table.
((ooc: feel free to drag Aishe along to wherever looks good.))
Danielle
18 years ago
Danielle gave a little smile and began making her way to the tables, speaking over her shoulder. It seemed that perhaps things with Aishe were moving awfully quickly and she was perhaps a bit overwhelmed, but Dani was confident it would all become clear.
“The towers are both the ‘family’s’ home and place of business; Liefde and Meridian, respectively. You might have seen them in the skyline; two tall modern towers standing side by side with a land bridge connecting them.”
Spotting what looked like an open table, she gestured for them to make their way to it while continuing to speak.
“And MARI would be the all-seeing-eye around said towers; she’s an incredible artificial intelligence program that ‘lives’ in the towers and pretty much keeps things running around there. She’s an excellent resource and knowledge base for everything you might want to know about us.”
She paused suddenly when a rather flamboyant waiter passed right in front of them, seemingly intent on the kitchen, then began walking once more.
/ooc Dani, Claire, and Aishe out to find a table, with permission
“The towers are both the ‘family’s’ home and place of business; Liefde and Meridian, respectively. You might have seen them in the skyline; two tall modern towers standing side by side with a land bridge connecting them.”
Spotting what looked like an open table, she gestured for them to make their way to it while continuing to speak.
“And MARI would be the all-seeing-eye around said towers; she’s an incredible artificial intelligence program that ‘lives’ in the towers and pretty much keeps things running around there. She’s an excellent resource and knowledge base for everything you might want to know about us.”
She paused suddenly when a rather flamboyant waiter passed right in front of them, seemingly intent on the kitchen, then began walking once more.
/ooc Dani, Claire, and Aishe out to find a table, with permission