Christian opted for a navy Armani suit that he fastened just once at the waist. The crisp blue dress shirt was made more casual by being open at the collar and left untucked; the occasional piece of it showing when he reached for something.
...Like the door to Club Eternity to allow his lovely child to enter the building first. The doorman who would have normally performed such a function smoothly stepped out of the way for him. He was obviously used to men trying to make a good impression with some basic manners. Christian nodded a slight acknowledgment and stepped inside.
The place was crowded as to be expected. They could have their choice of a wide variety of prey. Automatically he began scanning the room for what normally appealed to him. His tastes were not as specific as some but a search of the room gave him some favorites to choose from and from those he could narrow it down to the likeliest target.
Leaning down to Aishe, he smiled while still searching the room.
"See anything you like?"Â?
His eyes fell on a redhead at one of the booths. She was a good choice but something in her manner suggested she wasn't an easy mark. More hunter than prey, though that kind of woman could be fun to tangle with when he had the time. Christian's eyes moved on and then came back to the woman. She was... she was... the memory would come to him eventually.
For now though, he debated the benefits of alcohol. Deciding it would be for the best and would help them fit in, Christian moved closer to Aishe again.
"What would you care to drink?...from the bar."Â?
((OOC: Christian isn't suggesting that he thinks fiona is a vampire. He believes from her gaze and manner that she less of a passive follower type that might be easily lured. However, it might eventually click to the chief of security where in the several places that he has seen her or a description before. we'll get there eventually...somehow. And our humble apologies to the other Club E thread but you guys had more people in yours so we came here.))
To begin again.... (open)
It never even occurred to her that the doorman’s behavior was at all out of the ordinary. So she hadn’t been here in months. Sorin had introduced her and the doorman, who’s name she thought was James, though she didn’t care, simply allowed her entry before the throngs waiting outside. If anything, it was simply unneeded proof of Sorin’s influence, a thing she took for granted and gave not a moment’s thought to.
Entering the club, Fiona paused for a moment and looked around, debating on the options present. She could simply walk up to the bar, though it went against her nature to order her own drink in such a manner. Especially since that wasn’t the type of refreshment she was here for. Mentally shrugging she chose an empty booth, one that allowed her a veiw of the crowd, but placed her such an angle that she couldn’t help but be noticed.
Settling into her seat she surveyed the crowd, noting by clothing and bearing those that would make the perfect meal. An image of her last visit here made her smile – the game she and Sorin had played had been vastly entertaining. For a moment she allowed herself to wonder what had become of the couple they had toyed with. She doubted they had lasted the night.
Within moments of sitting a waiter had arrived and she ordered a glass of champagne, most of her attention on the crowd and trying to decide who to lure into her booth for a private… chat.
Christian Bern
17 years ago
Aishe
17 years ago
Aishe hadn't had occasion to dress this nicely in some time. She couldn't fault either MARI or Christian's taste either. The beige evening gown she'd found waiting for her made her feel nothing short of elegant, and seemed to fit in with the rest of the crowd at the upscale nightclub.
She thanked Chris as he held the door for her, smiled almost shyly at the doorman, and made her way into the club, looking around slowly. Chris' voice next to hear ear was comforting. She certainly wasn't going to forget the reason she was here, and while she wasn't exactly nervous, there was a certain sense of anticipation involved.
Aishe shook her head slightly, then changed her mind when she saw a group of young men in a semi-private partially-walled-off table across the room. Young money, she thought, having seen plenty of it in the circles her parents had wanted her to travel in in her early 20s. They were looking at her, and while coy wasn't her usual method, she did manage to glance over at them and then lower her eyelids demurely. "Perhaps," she murmured to Chris.
Aishe, not normally a drinker at all, didn't want to draw too much attention to herself by not having one at hand. She looked up at Chris, black hair falling away from her face, and said, "Chris... I don't drink." It was said with some slight worry. "Maybe a glass of wine?" Something she could hold and sip on without drinking too deply of. He would know what was appropriate, she was sure.
(ooc: Aishe's gown))
She thanked Chris as he held the door for her, smiled almost shyly at the doorman, and made her way into the club, looking around slowly. Chris' voice next to hear ear was comforting. She certainly wasn't going to forget the reason she was here, and while she wasn't exactly nervous, there was a certain sense of anticipation involved.
Aishe shook her head slightly, then changed her mind when she saw a group of young men in a semi-private partially-walled-off table across the room. Young money, she thought, having seen plenty of it in the circles her parents had wanted her to travel in in her early 20s. They were looking at her, and while coy wasn't her usual method, she did manage to glance over at them and then lower her eyelids demurely. "Perhaps," she murmured to Chris.
Aishe, not normally a drinker at all, didn't want to draw too much attention to herself by not having one at hand. She looked up at Chris, black hair falling away from her face, and said, "Chris... I don't drink." It was said with some slight worry. "Maybe a glass of wine?" Something she could hold and sip on without drinking too deply of. He would know what was appropriate, she was sure.
(ooc: Aishe's gown))
Fiona
17 years ago
The waiter had returned and Fiona had absently accepted the offer of another drink. A few moments later it was delivered, the waiter taking advantage of her seeming preoccupation with the crowd to check her out. Used to such scrutiny, she knew it was happening and turned her eyes up to him, raising an eyebrow. Embarrassed, he blushed and left quickly. Shaking her head she returned to picking out her prey.
There was one gentleman not too far away who looked promising and she studied him for a few moments. He seemed to be without a date, which meant she could take her time and play for awhile without the annoyance of dealing with a female. If not handled properly, a scene could result that was not in Fiona's best interests. She found she wished Sorin was here to hunt with. While she did not know or care exactly what he done with his half of their meal, the results had been highly entertaining.
She was debating her options in approaching her choice when she gave the room one last scan. Another couple had entered and she truly did wish Sorin was here to help. An elegant pair, though the man was shorter than she preferred. The woman was a beauty, with her tanned skin and dark hair set off very well by the light dress. Fiona felt a tendril of jealousy stir and dismissed her previous choice from her mind. This would be more difficult, but much more rewarding. She settled back with her drink and debated her options.
(OOC - forgot to note it earlier, but she's wearing her typical black silk pants suit with a blood red lace vneck blouse under it - see the piazza thread!)
There was one gentleman not too far away who looked promising and she studied him for a few moments. He seemed to be without a date, which meant she could take her time and play for awhile without the annoyance of dealing with a female. If not handled properly, a scene could result that was not in Fiona's best interests. She found she wished Sorin was here to hunt with. While she did not know or care exactly what he done with his half of their meal, the results had been highly entertaining.
She was debating her options in approaching her choice when she gave the room one last scan. Another couple had entered and she truly did wish Sorin was here to help. An elegant pair, though the man was shorter than she preferred. The woman was a beauty, with her tanned skin and dark hair set off very well by the light dress. Fiona felt a tendril of jealousy stir and dismissed her previous choice from her mind. This would be more difficult, but much more rewarding. She settled back with her drink and debated her options.
(OOC - forgot to note it earlier, but she's wearing her typical black silk pants suit with a blood red lace vneck blouse under it - see the piazza thread!)
Christian Bern
17 years ago
Christian turned his gaze toward the section that Aishe had just been eyeing. The small group of young men were a wise choice. They were quite probably looking for a fun evening and were not interested in finding 'true love in a night club' that would lead to complications.
He raised his eyebrows at her confession. It was not unheard of for someone in these times to not drink but he wondered why she did not. If she were willing to take a glass of wine then it did not seem to be a religious prohibition against the substance.
Making himself noticed the bartender was made easier with a mental nudge. Once the man turned to look around, Christian raised a hand just above the bar to indicate he was ready to order.
"Two glasses of Fontodi Chianti Classico."Â?
Leaning towards Aishe, he said.
"At least if you're going to tote a glass around, let it be something worth toting."Â?
Smiling at her, he considered their next move. The familiarity of the redhead was still bothering him but first things first. Christian sent to Aishe.
[Perhaps you and I should part ways on the pretense of the powder room. Stroll past your friends there and see if any seem more than passingly interested. From there you can plan your next move.]
He waited for her to answer before moving off himself, lest she have other ideas. Glancing back at the woman in the booth, Christian wondered if she would object to company.
He raised his eyebrows at her confession. It was not unheard of for someone in these times to not drink but he wondered why she did not. If she were willing to take a glass of wine then it did not seem to be a religious prohibition against the substance.
Making himself noticed the bartender was made easier with a mental nudge. Once the man turned to look around, Christian raised a hand just above the bar to indicate he was ready to order.
"Two glasses of Fontodi Chianti Classico."Â?
Leaning towards Aishe, he said.
"At least if you're going to tote a glass around, let it be something worth toting."Â?
Smiling at her, he considered their next move. The familiarity of the redhead was still bothering him but first things first. Christian sent to Aishe.
[Perhaps you and I should part ways on the pretense of the powder room. Stroll past your friends there and see if any seem more than passingly interested. From there you can plan your next move.]
He waited for her to answer before moving off himself, lest she have other ideas. Glancing back at the woman in the booth, Christian wondered if she would object to company.
Aishe
17 years ago
Aishe nodded with acqiescense as Chris ordered for them both, grateful for his understanding of the matter. It wouldn't do her any harm to sip all night long; she didn't dislike wine.
[From the looks of them, they appear to all be around twenty-one or so,] she responded to Chris, flicking her green eyes up to him with the faintest hint of a wry smile. [I think by definition they're all more than passingly interested. I'll see what I can do. Let me know if it works?] It was delivered with all the maturity of her lofty twenty-eight years, but the slight smile on her lips remained and her eyes danced with laughter nonetheless. If nothing else, Aishe was quickly learning not to take herself too seriously.
She glanced around at the crowded room, located the hall into the back, and took herself off in that direction. Hooray for ettiquette and deportment, she thought, otherwise she'd have made an idiot out of herself already by tripping over the flowy gown or twisting an ankle on the pretty shoes beneath. As it was she managed to pass right by what she was beginning to think of as her buffet table.
She offered up another glance through half-lidded eyes as she passed, tipping her head away just a bit and brushing her hair back behind her ear in a slightly self-conscious way. One, two, three, four... five guys. One in particular was watching her as she passed, and she took note of his appearance in case their positions shifted, then continued along on her way to the ladies' room.
Once there, she flopped down on one of the cute little chairs in the entry, trying not to tear anything, and gave a little sigh. It had been a long night, exciting, and eventful, true, but bound to get even longer still. Her hunting lesson did not bother her in the least; Aishe had considered this quite seriously over the last few months, and she knew when push came to shove she'd be able to do what was necessary. What worried her slightly was how Kem would react.
She could still feel his presence, and she had to chuckle at the great deal of restraint she felt there as well. Soon enough now, she thought, resting her head against the back of the chair. She closed her eyes briefly, glad for the minor respite, and hoped Chris would keep her informed. She wasn't exactly sure how long, exactly, a trip to the powder room was supposed to take under these circumstances. Somehow, her slight education in such things had neglected these very basic tasks.
[From the looks of them, they appear to all be around twenty-one or so,] she responded to Chris, flicking her green eyes up to him with the faintest hint of a wry smile. [I think by definition they're all more than passingly interested. I'll see what I can do. Let me know if it works?] It was delivered with all the maturity of her lofty twenty-eight years, but the slight smile on her lips remained and her eyes danced with laughter nonetheless. If nothing else, Aishe was quickly learning not to take herself too seriously.
She glanced around at the crowded room, located the hall into the back, and took herself off in that direction. Hooray for ettiquette and deportment, she thought, otherwise she'd have made an idiot out of herself already by tripping over the flowy gown or twisting an ankle on the pretty shoes beneath. As it was she managed to pass right by what she was beginning to think of as her buffet table.
She offered up another glance through half-lidded eyes as she passed, tipping her head away just a bit and brushing her hair back behind her ear in a slightly self-conscious way. One, two, three, four... five guys. One in particular was watching her as she passed, and she took note of his appearance in case their positions shifted, then continued along on her way to the ladies' room.
Once there, she flopped down on one of the cute little chairs in the entry, trying not to tear anything, and gave a little sigh. It had been a long night, exciting, and eventful, true, but bound to get even longer still. Her hunting lesson did not bother her in the least; Aishe had considered this quite seriously over the last few months, and she knew when push came to shove she'd be able to do what was necessary. What worried her slightly was how Kem would react.
She could still feel his presence, and she had to chuckle at the great deal of restraint she felt there as well. Soon enough now, she thought, resting her head against the back of the chair. She closed her eyes briefly, glad for the minor respite, and hoped Chris would keep her informed. She wasn't exactly sure how long, exactly, a trip to the powder room was supposed to take under these circumstances. Somehow, her slight education in such things had neglected these very basic tasks.
Fiona
17 years ago
Fiona followed their progress towards the bar from the corner of her eye and relaxed into the benchseat. Her selection having been made, she was content to let circumstances unfold. She’d know when the right time to strike was. Half the fun was maneuvering the pieces into place.
Having lost track of the couple for the moment, she let her mind wander over the small bits of information Simon had shared. Not much, now that she thought over it, but it had answered one mystery that had bothered her since the ball. Not knowing what or who the Tacharan were had bothered her – she did not like unknown quantities on the playing field. They had a rather nasty tendency to pop out at the worst moments.
Idly she wondered just how one managed to contract the Tacharans. Not that she had any need for their services at the moment, but one never knew when a problem might need cleaning up. And a Clan filled with vampire mercs… in theory, one would assume they’d know how to avoid the law and keep quiet. She filed that away in the event of future need.
Scanning the crowd again, she realized that the couple she had singled out were splitting up. Bringing her court face into play, she watched with an apparent lack of care while the women headed in the direction of the ladies lounge. She felt a moment’s disappointment when the dark haired beauty appeared to flirt at a table of men. If the little darling wasn’t serious about her man, attempting to steal him away, even if only for a few minutes, just wouldn’t be as much fun. Not to mention that the boys at that table, and she did mean boys, were not even close to the seeming class of the woman’s escort.
A slight frown was hidden as she raised her glass to drink while she reconsidered the situation.
Having lost track of the couple for the moment, she let her mind wander over the small bits of information Simon had shared. Not much, now that she thought over it, but it had answered one mystery that had bothered her since the ball. Not knowing what or who the Tacharan were had bothered her – she did not like unknown quantities on the playing field. They had a rather nasty tendency to pop out at the worst moments.
Idly she wondered just how one managed to contract the Tacharans. Not that she had any need for their services at the moment, but one never knew when a problem might need cleaning up. And a Clan filled with vampire mercs… in theory, one would assume they’d know how to avoid the law and keep quiet. She filed that away in the event of future need.
Scanning the crowd again, she realized that the couple she had singled out were splitting up. Bringing her court face into play, she watched with an apparent lack of care while the women headed in the direction of the ladies lounge. She felt a moment’s disappointment when the dark haired beauty appeared to flirt at a table of men. If the little darling wasn’t serious about her man, attempting to steal him away, even if only for a few minutes, just wouldn’t be as much fun. Not to mention that the boys at that table, and she did mean boys, were not even close to the seeming class of the woman’s escort.
A slight frown was hidden as she raised her glass to drink while she reconsidered the situation.
Christian Bern
17 years ago
Christian nodded to Aishe and then turned away. He watched he progress while seeming to be paying attention to something else nearby. Chuckling inwardly at her correct assessment of young men, he cut his eyes back their way just as she passed in order to check their auras.
[They are all quite smitten, my dear. You will be interested to note that the blonde appears to most obviously taken with you...and is likely to make a move if given an opportunity. The taller dark haired young man is actually the most interested despite his calmer exterior.]
It was at these times when an empath's true hunting skills came into play. Christian felt a great sense of relief knowing that Aishe had inherited it. Despite its seeming like a nuisance at the moment.
[You could choose either and get your wish. However, I would personally suggest letting the blonde come to you. The other might actually want more than you are interested in letting him have.]
Even the young yearn for something secure. The small group had still been one of the better marks for someone's first time and he was proud that she had the good sense to pick them out herself.
Turning his attention towards his own situation, Christian wondered whether he should chance the redhead who was still claiming his thoughts or try for something quick and easy as well.
Alas, he was rarely one for the easy road. Sighing slightly, he was not surprised to find himself headed towards the redhead before the decision had solidly formed in his mind. Standing to one side of the booth so as not to be too boldly crass and intruding, Christian smiled and turned up the accent that he normally carefully hid.
"Your pardon, but I was wondering if I could ask someone who appears to be a person of fine taste, if they could recommend a restaurant?"Â?
[They are all quite smitten, my dear. You will be interested to note that the blonde appears to most obviously taken with you...and is likely to make a move if given an opportunity. The taller dark haired young man is actually the most interested despite his calmer exterior.]
It was at these times when an empath's true hunting skills came into play. Christian felt a great sense of relief knowing that Aishe had inherited it. Despite its seeming like a nuisance at the moment.
[You could choose either and get your wish. However, I would personally suggest letting the blonde come to you. The other might actually want more than you are interested in letting him have.]
Even the young yearn for something secure. The small group had still been one of the better marks for someone's first time and he was proud that she had the good sense to pick them out herself.
Turning his attention towards his own situation, Christian wondered whether he should chance the redhead who was still claiming his thoughts or try for something quick and easy as well.
Alas, he was rarely one for the easy road. Sighing slightly, he was not surprised to find himself headed towards the redhead before the decision had solidly formed in his mind. Standing to one side of the booth so as not to be too boldly crass and intruding, Christian smiled and turned up the accent that he normally carefully hid.
"Your pardon, but I was wondering if I could ask someone who appears to be a person of fine taste, if they could recommend a restaurant?"Â?
Aishe
17 years ago
Aishe stayed where she was, head tipped back against the chair, one foot tapping slightly under her gown. Chris' words brought a smile to her face. Smitten, hmm? She chuckled. The blond had been the one whose face she'd noticed as being the most interested. It was good to know Chris agreed with her, but now what did she do with him? This feeding thing could be tougher than she'd expected.
Strike that, no. She'd known it would be something like this, she'd just obviously never had the chance to engage in such games herself. Aishe's usual manner was not flirtatious and coy. She tended to be wall-flowerish until she had a goal in mind, and then bulls in china shops generally had nothing on her. That wouldn't do here. She'd have to remain coy and cute.
[Thank you, Chris,] she sent back when he informed her of both men. [Considering I'm not interested in letting either of them have much of anything, it sounds like I've got a target. You?]
She stayed where she was for a few moments more. She'd just been busy trying to get herself noticed before, when she'd walked past the partially hidden table. Now, it seemed, she should most likely focus her efforts on the one young man in particular.
After what she figured was probably an appropriate amount of time, Aishe gathered up her gown and stood, then let the length of fabric fall again. Checking to make sure everything was arranged properly, she made her way back out into the club. Chris, she noticed, had moved to stand beside the booth of a rather striking red-head. She smiled at him quickly and headed to the bar, where the drink he'd ordered for her was waiting. It gave her a good opportunity to locate her buffet table again and, this time, meet the eyes of the blond man for one brief, bold instant before dropping hers down once more and sipping demurely at her wine.
Strike that, no. She'd known it would be something like this, she'd just obviously never had the chance to engage in such games herself. Aishe's usual manner was not flirtatious and coy. She tended to be wall-flowerish until she had a goal in mind, and then bulls in china shops generally had nothing on her. That wouldn't do here. She'd have to remain coy and cute.
[Thank you, Chris,] she sent back when he informed her of both men. [Considering I'm not interested in letting either of them have much of anything, it sounds like I've got a target. You?]
She stayed where she was for a few moments more. She'd just been busy trying to get herself noticed before, when she'd walked past the partially hidden table. Now, it seemed, she should most likely focus her efforts on the one young man in particular.
After what she figured was probably an appropriate amount of time, Aishe gathered up her gown and stood, then let the length of fabric fall again. Checking to make sure everything was arranged properly, she made her way back out into the club. Chris, she noticed, had moved to stand beside the booth of a rather striking red-head. She smiled at him quickly and headed to the bar, where the drink he'd ordered for her was waiting. It gave her a good opportunity to locate her buffet table again and, this time, meet the eyes of the blond man for one brief, bold instant before dropping hers down once more and sipping demurely at her wine.
Fiona
17 years ago
Fiona was still musing over her options when the decision was taken completely out of her hands. A moment's confusion was hidden behind a demure smile as she gathered her scattered thoughts. There was no surprise at having been approached, though she couldn't help but wonder if she had inadvertently cast a glamour before she was ready. It seemed entirely too coincidental that the mark she had singled out would approach her so boldly.
Well, not boldly. He was being completely respectful of her personal space - close enough for casual conversation but not so lose as to be intruding. She placed the accent easily and found she could relax a bit. Time in New York had made her a bit wary of dealing with Americans - she generally found herself gritting her teeth in annoyance if she spent too long in their company. Nachton apparently attracted it's share of Europeans, another reason to take up residence here. The possibility of civilized conversation was a definite draw.
A thoughtful frown crossed her lips as she considered his question. While she didn't have to eat, she did enjoy a good meal and had found a few restaurants in the area that allowed her to indulge while still maintain her exacting standards. Tapping a nail against her lower lip she met his blue eyes with seeming shyness. Mentally stepping onto the playing field, she couldn't help but be amused at the difference between this game and the one she had played with Sorin. This game held it's own charm and often could be used as a stepping stone to the other. She let her own accent expand slightly as she gave him a light and suggestive answer.
"That would depend upon your tastes, Monsieur, not to mention your mood."Â?
The part of her that had reacted with jealousy to the man's date was tempted to suggest something that would be more appropriate for the masses, but she reigned that in, curious to see what was going on here. They had entered together, but had then split apart, each appearing to flirt with someone else. The exotic woman had returned, but ignored her escort, returning to the bar to retrieve her drink. She did not come to claim her man away though, a move Fiona was accustomed to seeing under these circumstances. What was going on here that there was no defending of territory? Her fun was being stolen away and she hadn't a clue how it had happened.
Determined to salvage this situation, she glanced down at the table, pretending she had no idea he had come in with someone else.
"Would you care to join me?"Â?
Well, not boldly. He was being completely respectful of her personal space - close enough for casual conversation but not so lose as to be intruding. She placed the accent easily and found she could relax a bit. Time in New York had made her a bit wary of dealing with Americans - she generally found herself gritting her teeth in annoyance if she spent too long in their company. Nachton apparently attracted it's share of Europeans, another reason to take up residence here. The possibility of civilized conversation was a definite draw.
A thoughtful frown crossed her lips as she considered his question. While she didn't have to eat, she did enjoy a good meal and had found a few restaurants in the area that allowed her to indulge while still maintain her exacting standards. Tapping a nail against her lower lip she met his blue eyes with seeming shyness. Mentally stepping onto the playing field, she couldn't help but be amused at the difference between this game and the one she had played with Sorin. This game held it's own charm and often could be used as a stepping stone to the other. She let her own accent expand slightly as she gave him a light and suggestive answer.
"That would depend upon your tastes, Monsieur, not to mention your mood."Â?
The part of her that had reacted with jealousy to the man's date was tempted to suggest something that would be more appropriate for the masses, but she reigned that in, curious to see what was going on here. They had entered together, but had then split apart, each appearing to flirt with someone else. The exotic woman had returned, but ignored her escort, returning to the bar to retrieve her drink. She did not come to claim her man away though, a move Fiona was accustomed to seeing under these circumstances. What was going on here that there was no defending of territory? Her fun was being stolen away and she hadn't a clue how it had happened.
Determined to salvage this situation, she glanced down at the table, pretending she had no idea he had come in with someone else.
"Would you care to join me?"Â?
Christian Bern
17 years ago
Christian waited politely while the redhead paused for thought. His mind was working furiously on another matter entirely. This close to her and now he was certain he had seen her before. It was hard to mistake someone of such timeless grace..
Timeless....
A vampire. Images of the mayor's dinner flashed before his eyes starting with the chaotic conclusion and then moving backward to the beginning of the evening. She had come in with Sorin Lazarovici of Anantya. There was a good chance that she was one of that clan but he was fairly certain...reasonably certain, that he was dealing with one of his own kind. Would an Anantya elder be seen with a human? He thought it was safe to say no.
Well that gave the situation a different twist he was not expecting. He wondered what fine line he might be treading here shortly. If she was an Anantya then he would do better to keep Aishe away from her. It was never a good idea to let an enemy, or at least a non friendly, know that there was someone untried on the battlefield.
Grinning at her answer, Christian looked down a moment before looking back up to meet her gaze.
"Ah, my tastes are healthy I believe. I do enjoy that which is fine but it most certainly must be well made. As to my mood...."Â?
At this he tilted his head to the side and considered the question.
" I would say that I am in the mood for something quiet and elegant."Â?
He look surprised at her offer for a seat. Turning to nod at Aishe, he then returned his gaze to the woman in front of him.
"I would be delighted to keep you company, if you will have me. My sister seems to have found her own interests for the evening."Â?
Sliding into the seat, he set down his wine and made a slight bow with one hand to his chest.
" My name is Christian Bern. Thank you for your hospitality."Â?
Timeless....
A vampire. Images of the mayor's dinner flashed before his eyes starting with the chaotic conclusion and then moving backward to the beginning of the evening. She had come in with Sorin Lazarovici of Anantya. There was a good chance that she was one of that clan but he was fairly certain...reasonably certain, that he was dealing with one of his own kind. Would an Anantya elder be seen with a human? He thought it was safe to say no.
Well that gave the situation a different twist he was not expecting. He wondered what fine line he might be treading here shortly. If she was an Anantya then he would do better to keep Aishe away from her. It was never a good idea to let an enemy, or at least a non friendly, know that there was someone untried on the battlefield.
Grinning at her answer, Christian looked down a moment before looking back up to meet her gaze.
"Ah, my tastes are healthy I believe. I do enjoy that which is fine but it most certainly must be well made. As to my mood...."Â?
At this he tilted his head to the side and considered the question.
" I would say that I am in the mood for something quiet and elegant."Â?
He look surprised at her offer for a seat. Turning to nod at Aishe, he then returned his gaze to the woman in front of him.
"I would be delighted to keep you company, if you will have me. My sister seems to have found her own interests for the evening."Â?
Sliding into the seat, he set down his wine and made a slight bow with one hand to his chest.
" My name is Christian Bern. Thank you for your hospitality."Â?
Aishe
17 years ago
Having further secured her interest with the rather attractive blond, Aishe turned, thinking she would rejoin Chris and let the younger man dangle a bit. Then, realizing that Chris was now engaged in conversation with the redhead and had moved to sit with her, she checked herself. If that was to be Chris' own target tonight, she would probably just be in the way if she butted in now.
She fretted slightly as she turned away again, wishing she had the ability to contact Chris herself and double-check, but she had to wait until he spoke to her before she could respond. She sipped at her wine a bit more, as much for something to do as anything else, but she didn't forget her own goal.
Aishe checked to make sure the young blond was still watching her, which he was, and that he noticed her interest in him as well, which he did. Remarkable restraint for someone who was still ruled by hormones, she thought with a little internal sniff of self-consciousness. She wondered how long it would take him to actually approach her. She felt certain she could handle things from that point on, or at least until the moment of truth came.
She fretted slightly as she turned away again, wishing she had the ability to contact Chris herself and double-check, but she had to wait until he spoke to her before she could respond. She sipped at her wine a bit more, as much for something to do as anything else, but she didn't forget her own goal.
Aishe checked to make sure the young blond was still watching her, which he was, and that he noticed her interest in him as well, which he did. Remarkable restraint for someone who was still ruled by hormones, she thought with a little internal sniff of self-consciousness. She wondered how long it would take him to actually approach her. She felt certain she could handle things from that point on, or at least until the moment of truth came.
Fiona
17 years ago
Fiona lowered her eyes when he expressed what he was in the mood for. She used a light touch of glamour on herself, making it appear she was blushing, before looking back up at him. The glamour faded slowly, returning her skin to its usual tones. She much preferred using her talents like this to the times she'd needed it to hide. Few things irritated her more than to be forced into invisibility.
"I think I can come up with something quiet and elegant."Â?
Her spurt of triumph as he accepted her invitation was flattened by his next statement. Involuntarily she looked across the room at the other woman. His sister? Did he honestly think that story would fly with anyone how could see 2 inches beyond their nose? She returned her gaze to him and raised an eyebrow slightly inviting an explanation, but not willing to outright ask for one. It would have been unforgivably rude.
"Enchante, Monsieur Bern. Fiona Gerard."Â? She smiled and returned his nod. "I would love to keep you company until your sister returns."Â?
This was proving to be one of the odder evenings she'd had lately. First she accidently stumbles over the Clan leader - and it just occurred to her how strange it was he hadn't used the term Elder - then she manages to choose a mark that isn't the game she had anticipated. Sighing softly to herself, she set her glass down and met Christian's eyes. He was handsome enough and charming. And it was nice to hear a voice that didn't set her teeth on edge like many around her could. This might prove to be a pleasant diversion.
"I think I can come up with something quiet and elegant."Â?
Her spurt of triumph as he accepted her invitation was flattened by his next statement. Involuntarily she looked across the room at the other woman. His sister? Did he honestly think that story would fly with anyone how could see 2 inches beyond their nose? She returned her gaze to him and raised an eyebrow slightly inviting an explanation, but not willing to outright ask for one. It would have been unforgivably rude.
"Enchante, Monsieur Bern. Fiona Gerard."Â? She smiled and returned his nod. "I would love to keep you company until your sister returns."Â?
This was proving to be one of the odder evenings she'd had lately. First she accidently stumbles over the Clan leader - and it just occurred to her how strange it was he hadn't used the term Elder - then she manages to choose a mark that isn't the game she had anticipated. Sighing softly to herself, she set her glass down and met Christian's eyes. He was handsome enough and charming. And it was nice to hear a voice that didn't set her teeth on edge like many around her could. This might prove to be a pleasant diversion.
Christian Bern
17 years ago
Christian smiled and seeing the expression of curiosity and doubt, which honestly was to be expected from the statement he just made, he went on to explain. Chuckling softly, he said.
"Adopted. It is a large family with all of us children being from rather diverse backgrounds."Â?
She had said that she could think of somewhere quiet and elegant. Was she considering him a target in the same way that he had considered her? Two vampires hunting for a meal and ending up finding each other, it wasn't unheard of. Or she could just be answering his question and he was reading more into it than actually existed now that he figured her for one of his own.
" Merci Mademoiselle Gerard, you are most kind."Â?
The name was familiar. Christian blinked once or twice trying to capture the stray strands of thought and memory and make them take hold. Reaching for his glass, he took a sip to give him enough time to pull it all together.
Fiona Gerard. Fiona was not a common name at all and he had seen it recently. She was definitely the redhead at the Mayor's dinner and likely one of his own kind but her name was familiar and he knew very few Anantya.
Of course!, Christian leaned back quickly as the pieces finally fit together. Checking his suit, he was relieved to know that he had not spilled his wine in the hasty movement.
"Ah, but you are family too. Are you not, Mlle. Gerard? From the towers, here in Nachton?"Â?
She was not Anantya, but Evenhet. Her name was familiar because she was a newer arrival to the city and MARI sent him her file so that he would know of her. Having constant access to the computer's memory would be nice at times like these.
Christian relaxed back into the booth. He was dealing with a clan mate; that was so much better than trying to figure out the motives of an unknown Anantya. What was she doing with Sorin? It was not his place, even as Evenhet Security, to ask and so he put that thought aside for the moment.
"Adopted. It is a large family with all of us children being from rather diverse backgrounds."Â?
She had said that she could think of somewhere quiet and elegant. Was she considering him a target in the same way that he had considered her? Two vampires hunting for a meal and ending up finding each other, it wasn't unheard of. Or she could just be answering his question and he was reading more into it than actually existed now that he figured her for one of his own.
" Merci Mademoiselle Gerard, you are most kind."Â?
The name was familiar. Christian blinked once or twice trying to capture the stray strands of thought and memory and make them take hold. Reaching for his glass, he took a sip to give him enough time to pull it all together.
Fiona Gerard. Fiona was not a common name at all and he had seen it recently. She was definitely the redhead at the Mayor's dinner and likely one of his own kind but her name was familiar and he knew very few Anantya.
Of course!, Christian leaned back quickly as the pieces finally fit together. Checking his suit, he was relieved to know that he had not spilled his wine in the hasty movement.
"Ah, but you are family too. Are you not, Mlle. Gerard? From the towers, here in Nachton?"Â?
She was not Anantya, but Evenhet. Her name was familiar because she was a newer arrival to the city and MARI sent him her file so that he would know of her. Having constant access to the computer's memory would be nice at times like these.
Christian relaxed back into the booth. He was dealing with a clan mate; that was so much better than trying to figure out the motives of an unknown Anantya. What was she doing with Sorin? It was not his place, even as Evenhet Security, to ask and so he put that thought aside for the moment.
Fiona
17 years ago
Fiona was pleased that he’d picked up on the unspoken question. It as much more entertaining to converse with someone who was intelligent. And adoption did explain the seemingly false statement. Fiona found it perfectly natural that the woman might have wanted an unattached escort for the evening. It allowed her a measure of protection against those who might wish to harm her, but the freedom to spend her time as she chose.
But his claim that she was also family made her frown slightly. To the best of her knowledge, she had never seen either of these people in her long life. Her mind took a few moments to link his claim of a large, diverse family with the reference to towers. She used his momentary distraction with his clothing to cover her surprise.
So, Christian was another member of Evenhet. Presumably, so was his “sister”. But he did not know who she was until she gave him her name…
Alfarinn. Or Maeve. But she’d be willing to bet that Alfarinn had asked that an eye be kept out for her, especially as she hadn’t yet bothered to put in an appearance at the Towers. Damn, she wasn’t ready for this conversation, hadn’t planned out how to approach the Evenhet, especially in light of the talks she’d had with Sorin. She knew damn well that appearing at the ball on his arm had put her in a precarious position. No one, not even Sorin, knew exactly where her loyalties lay at the moment. To be honest, Fiona wasn’t entirely certain where they lay. And until she did, she was not willing to tip the balance in either direction.
So she got to play nice with her “brother”. And here she had been ready to relax and enjoy the company of a fellow European stuck in the wilds of the New World. She let that thought settle in and decided that she could still do that. She just had to keep in mind that anything she said would end up back with Alfarinn. That was doable.
She nodded slowly, amusement evident in her eyes. “Yes, I am given to understand that I have family living there. I haven’t had the time to visit them yet, business having called me away again until recently. I believe that my dear friend Maeve is staying there now though.”
But his claim that she was also family made her frown slightly. To the best of her knowledge, she had never seen either of these people in her long life. Her mind took a few moments to link his claim of a large, diverse family with the reference to towers. She used his momentary distraction with his clothing to cover her surprise.
So, Christian was another member of Evenhet. Presumably, so was his “sister”. But he did not know who she was until she gave him her name…
Alfarinn. Or Maeve. But she’d be willing to bet that Alfarinn had asked that an eye be kept out for her, especially as she hadn’t yet bothered to put in an appearance at the Towers. Damn, she wasn’t ready for this conversation, hadn’t planned out how to approach the Evenhet, especially in light of the talks she’d had with Sorin. She knew damn well that appearing at the ball on his arm had put her in a precarious position. No one, not even Sorin, knew exactly where her loyalties lay at the moment. To be honest, Fiona wasn’t entirely certain where they lay. And until she did, she was not willing to tip the balance in either direction.
So she got to play nice with her “brother”. And here she had been ready to relax and enjoy the company of a fellow European stuck in the wilds of the New World. She let that thought settle in and decided that she could still do that. She just had to keep in mind that anything she said would end up back with Alfarinn. That was doable.
She nodded slowly, amusement evident in her eyes. “Yes, I am given to understand that I have family living there. I haven’t had the time to visit them yet, business having called me away again until recently. I believe that my dear friend Maeve is staying there now though.”
Christian Bern
17 years ago
Christian waited for her answer. Letting her sort out the subtle clue as to what he and Aishe were. The 'vampire dance' was an old one; a dance that could only be moved to by two of their kind. If she had been human then it would have been an awkward but harmless moment. She was not.
The dance continued.
Fiona explained that she was called away on business and that explained her reasons for not yet making a visit to the Towers. It was an answer that could be accepted. He did not believe that was the full of it but such a thing was minor at this point.
His thoughts turned to Aishe and his gaze moved out over the nightclub until it found his child.
[Fiona here is Evenhet. Would you care to sit down for a bit or are you more interested in moving things along with your choice.]
Turning back to his clan mate next to him, Christian smiled.
"Ah yes, that she is. Its not for everyone but I call it home as well."Â?
There were those, Kem among them, that did not find the Towers to be to their liking. It could be the modern nature of it, which despite Evenhet's forward thinking there were some members who did not embrace the technology of the now, or the communal living with so many people, or the constant movement of the inner city, or some other reason entirely. There were many.
The dance continued.
Fiona explained that she was called away on business and that explained her reasons for not yet making a visit to the Towers. It was an answer that could be accepted. He did not believe that was the full of it but such a thing was minor at this point.
His thoughts turned to Aishe and his gaze moved out over the nightclub until it found his child.
[Fiona here is Evenhet. Would you care to sit down for a bit or are you more interested in moving things along with your choice.]
Turning back to his clan mate next to him, Christian smiled.
"Ah yes, that she is. Its not for everyone but I call it home as well."Â?
There were those, Kem among them, that did not find the Towers to be to their liking. It could be the modern nature of it, which despite Evenhet's forward thinking there were some members who did not embrace the technology of the now, or the communal living with so many people, or the constant movement of the inner city, or some other reason entirely. There were many.
Aishe
17 years ago
Aishe was relieved to hear Chris' voice in her head once more. Having sipped at her wine and made the appropriate cute faces at the young blond, she was watching out of the corner of her eye as his friends obviously tried to psych him up for something. Hopefully, a dance. Or something of that nature. God knew if she kept up with the faces and the eyelash-batting and the shyness for much longer, she was going to have to return to the ladies' room and vomit.
[I would love to come join you,] she sent back. [I didn't want to interrupt if you were onto something yourself, and it seems mine needs a little moral support before he plucks up the courage. Maybe I need to be a bit more obvious.]
Considering she'd been beating around Nachton with all the subtlety of a tapdancing hippo lately, it was amusing to her that now she was being too subtle. She moed away from the bar, caught the man's eye once again, and gave him a slow, soft smile. Indicating with her eyes the direction she was going, she added a very small nod of her head in invitation, should he decide he actually had the courage to come over after all. With that, she went to join Chris and the redhead... Fiona.
Approaching the table she smiled at them and said, mostly to the woman, "Good evening, I hope I'm not interrupting." She didn't want to give away the fact that Chris had been sending to her, so she stopped there. Anything else she could have thought of to say would have given away either the fact that she'd been talking to Chris very quietly, or that she didn't know what, if anything, Chris had said about their relationship thus far.
[I would love to come join you,] she sent back. [I didn't want to interrupt if you were onto something yourself, and it seems mine needs a little moral support before he plucks up the courage. Maybe I need to be a bit more obvious.]
Considering she'd been beating around Nachton with all the subtlety of a tapdancing hippo lately, it was amusing to her that now she was being too subtle. She moed away from the bar, caught the man's eye once again, and gave him a slow, soft smile. Indicating with her eyes the direction she was going, she added a very small nod of her head in invitation, should he decide he actually had the courage to come over after all. With that, she went to join Chris and the redhead... Fiona.
Approaching the table she smiled at them and said, mostly to the woman, "Good evening, I hope I'm not interrupting." She didn't want to give away the fact that Chris had been sending to her, so she stopped there. Anything else she could have thought of to say would have given away either the fact that she'd been talking to Chris very quietly, or that she didn't know what, if anything, Chris had said about their relationship thus far.
Fiona
17 years ago
It was something of a relief that it didn’t seem to be expected that she take up residence at the Towers. She couldn’t imagine living in that massive steel structure for any length of time, but she had come to the conclusion she did want a home here in Nachton. Taking Maeve along home shopping would be a good idea – and it would give them a chance to clear the air between them.
While it wasn’t really needed at this point, his knowing Maeve confirmed they were having the same conversation. She nodded and gave a slight grimace. “I fear I am one who it would not suit. I must admit I prefer a more traditional setting for my treasures.”
The arrival of Christian’s “sister” caused the spurt of jealousy to flare again. Refusing to acknowledge it, she smiled graciously at the exotic woman. “And to you. I do not believe you are interrupting. Please, join us.”
(OOC - sorry bout the shortness - it's been one of those days at work.... she'll make up for it on the noext go round!)
While it wasn’t really needed at this point, his knowing Maeve confirmed they were having the same conversation. She nodded and gave a slight grimace. “I fear I am one who it would not suit. I must admit I prefer a more traditional setting for my treasures.”
The arrival of Christian’s “sister” caused the spurt of jealousy to flare again. Refusing to acknowledge it, she smiled graciously at the exotic woman. “And to you. I do not believe you are interrupting. Please, join us.”
(OOC - sorry bout the shortness - it's been one of those days at work.... she'll make up for it on the noext go round!)
Christian Bern
17 years ago
Christian nodded in understanding. So that was her problem with the place. It was a common one among the immortals; adjusting from age to age happened at various rates. Some vampires did very well with keeping up with the times and others did not; many simply had preferences that related to the past.
"My creator would agree with you. He does live in the Towers but he has made his home something of an anachronism within the modern."Â?
He smiled thinking of Grisha.
"Of course, its quite possible that he gets away with such eccentricity because he's a grumpy old goat. "
Aishe did walk over to join them and Christian slid over to give her room at the booth.
"Aishe Nevrat this is Fiona Gerard, also of Evenhet."Â?
((OOC: I'm kind of sleepy so mine is short also ))
"My creator would agree with you. He does live in the Towers but he has made his home something of an anachronism within the modern."Â?
He smiled thinking of Grisha.
"Of course, its quite possible that he gets away with such eccentricity because he's a grumpy old goat. "
Aishe did walk over to join them and Christian slid over to give her room at the booth.
"Aishe Nevrat this is Fiona Gerard, also of Evenhet."Â?
((OOC: I'm kind of sleepy so mine is short also ))
Aishe
17 years ago
Aishe nodded to the redhead. "A pleasure to meet you, Fiona," she said as she slid as gracefully as she could into the booth next to Chris. Holding her hand out to Fiona, she made sure her wineglass was set upon the table well away from any flailing elbows. It wouldn't do to ruin her gown, which, she had to admit, she liked more than just a little.
Turning to Chris with a wry smile, she said, "I couldn't exactly help overhearing, but as is always the case, I didn't hear enough. Who, exactly, is the old goat in question?"
It was the first time she'd ever heard Chris use such a colorful description. "It can't possibly be me. I've always considered myself more of a, oh... I don't know," she shrugged one shoulder. "Something without facial hair."
She offered up her most innocent expression, taking a small sip of her wine and replacing it delicately back on the table.
Turning to Chris with a wry smile, she said, "I couldn't exactly help overhearing, but as is always the case, I didn't hear enough. Who, exactly, is the old goat in question?"
It was the first time she'd ever heard Chris use such a colorful description. "It can't possibly be me. I've always considered myself more of a, oh... I don't know," she shrugged one shoulder. "Something without facial hair."
She offered up her most innocent expression, taking a small sip of her wine and replacing it delicately back on the table.
Fiona
17 years ago
Fiona's eyes widened in feigned shock at Christian's... colorful description of his maker. His companion's arrival had saved her from having to come up with an appropriate reply and she gladly accepted the hand offered.
But Aishe's comeback was so completely unexpected, that Fiona let out a pretty laugh. Surprised at herself, she actually did blush a little. She waved a hand delicately, as if shooing away her bad manners. "I'm sorry, I was not laughing at you, truly. It is just..."Â?
Fiona shook her head, unsure how to explain her reaction. Years of dealing in the courts followed by even more years of dealing with the nobility had left her with few defenses against this particular pair. She was completely unaccustomed to those who simply spoke their minds. Even Maeve took some care when dealing with her, which Fiona could honestly admit was her own fault. Not that she'd admit it. Honesty between them tended to be of the harsher variety.
Her eyes still sparkling with suppressed humor, Fiona returned Aishe's innocent look with one of her own.
"It is a pleasure, Mlle. Nevrat. Please, call me Fiona, both of you. It would not do to address to family with such formality, I think?"Â?
But Aishe's comeback was so completely unexpected, that Fiona let out a pretty laugh. Surprised at herself, she actually did blush a little. She waved a hand delicately, as if shooing away her bad manners. "I'm sorry, I was not laughing at you, truly. It is just..."Â?
Fiona shook her head, unsure how to explain her reaction. Years of dealing in the courts followed by even more years of dealing with the nobility had left her with few defenses against this particular pair. She was completely unaccustomed to those who simply spoke their minds. Even Maeve took some care when dealing with her, which Fiona could honestly admit was her own fault. Not that she'd admit it. Honesty between them tended to be of the harsher variety.
Her eyes still sparkling with suppressed humor, Fiona returned Aishe's innocent look with one of her own.
"It is a pleasure, Mlle. Nevrat. Please, call me Fiona, both of you. It would not do to address to family with such formality, I think?"Â?