Alfarinn watched the blonde moving in front of him appreciatively, still thinking the lack of the tight leather was a pity but he had to admit Thaddeus looked good. His companion seemed to be feeling better about this trip also. Their purpose here didn't elude him but it was good to see Thaddeus looking more at ease in the place.
The earlier pursuits went well enough though Alfarinn was reminded why he bought his supplies through Meridian. Waiting was an annoying novelty for him. There was no help for it though, they couldn't afford to get everything from Evenhet, in fact, the cameras were plenty. It was interesting to watch Thaddeus with the computer but what the sales representative did not know was just how bright the Anantya was. Alfarinn knew that it wouldn't be long before his intelligent companion was surfing the net and telling -him- things he'd found.
He nodded at Max on the way in, placing a hand on the man's shoulder with a smile as he passed through the door, the problem had been solved and generally Alfarinn wasn't one to hold a grudge.
Staying close to Thaddeus as they entered and headed to the bar, he bent his head down slightly to hear his companion over the thumping music. He resisted the urge to place an arm around him, contenting himself with leaning slightly against Thaddeus as they maintained a place at the counter despite the constant jostle of people.
"Do you now?" Alfarinn grinned. "Are you ordering then?"
Debts Repaid
It was, all in all, a bit easier to enter the House of Pain on the second trip. The bouncer, Thaddeus noticed with not a little amusement, was quite courteous this time around, both to Alfarinn and himself.
Additionally, he had to admit...he looked good, and that helped his confidence somewhat as he and Alfarinn made their way through the crowd to the bar. While he would never dream of wearing such things anywhere other than this club, he could not help but notice that his new clothes were flattering. He was beginning to think there might be something to modern fashion after all, though some comfort appeared to have been lost in the design.
Already it had been a full evening, moving from store to store to pick up needed items for their search. Their ventures, in the end, had been fruitful, though the laptop would be delayed a day or so and the tiny stun gun would have to be picked up later. Hence their visit to the club tonight, rather than investigating apartments. It seemed no matter how many crisp bills Thaddeus put on the counter, the arms dealer would not budge on the needed paperwork, which took time. The computer store where they had selected the needed laptop was equally immovable, though Thaddeus thought in this case it was a matter of availability. He had been offered the computer on display, but had declined. He supposed the sales person thought him odd, judging by the looks he gave Thaddeus's gloved hands as he experimentally tapped at the keyboard, but did not press the issue.
To compensate for the current lack of weaponry, Thaddeus had a rather impressive dagger tucked conveniently in his boot. Modern weapons, it seemed, were another item to be considered, though he sincerely hoped such protections could soon be placed in a locked drawer and forgotten. In any case, Thaddeus was not even sure it would occur to him to use the weapon; it was somewhat against his instincts in the first place, and it was much easier to forget he carried anything at all.
Having made it to the bar without incident, Thaddeus leaned over and spoke.
I believe I owe you a drink. What would you like?
Alfarinn
18 years ago
Thaddeus Grey
18 years ago
Thaddeus tilted his head and looked up at Alfarinn curiously. It was only natural, in his mind, only polite, for him to order drinks. The Evenhet had been kind enough to take care of such matters the first time and Thaddeus would do him the same courtesy. Shrugging internally at the other man's reaction, coupled with that grin, he inclined his chin solemnly and turned his attention to the bar.
The bartender appeared to pay him no mind as he bustled back and forth filling orders. Thaddeus caught on quickly enough; by the time the second person mysteriously pulled ahead of him as he watched, he realized this was every man for himself. He caught the bartender's eye and ordered quickly before he could escape.
Two assisted suicides.
The bartender turned his back to him and began fixing the drinks. He was not exactly sure what he had been expecting in the way of customer service, though he reasoned that it was not as though he wished to strike up a conversation with this man. What would he say? 'How is business?' 'Appears to be quite a crowd.' 'Have you seen a tall man with blue eyes that look like a nightmare?' Unsettled by his own thought, he leaned back against Alfarinn, assured by his presence.
Having limited knowledge of alcoholic beverages, he decided to play it safe and order something Alfarinn seemed to prefer. He did not, however, plan to have a second this time; he had partaken last time more out of nervousness than anything else, and by the time he had, to his surprise, drained the first drink, the second had seemed a good deal more reasonable. A drink in front of him to look less suspicious, nothing more.
The drinks in question were ready soon enough, and he looked back at Alfarinn, raising an eyebrow as he took the drinks in hand.
Lead the way?
Being in the company of a man who stood a head taller than the majority of the other club goers had its advantages, after all. Thaddeus felt they might as well use them; he tended to feel swallowed by this crowd.
The bartender appeared to pay him no mind as he bustled back and forth filling orders. Thaddeus caught on quickly enough; by the time the second person mysteriously pulled ahead of him as he watched, he realized this was every man for himself. He caught the bartender's eye and ordered quickly before he could escape.
Two assisted suicides.
The bartender turned his back to him and began fixing the drinks. He was not exactly sure what he had been expecting in the way of customer service, though he reasoned that it was not as though he wished to strike up a conversation with this man. What would he say? 'How is business?' 'Appears to be quite a crowd.' 'Have you seen a tall man with blue eyes that look like a nightmare?' Unsettled by his own thought, he leaned back against Alfarinn, assured by his presence.
Having limited knowledge of alcoholic beverages, he decided to play it safe and order something Alfarinn seemed to prefer. He did not, however, plan to have a second this time; he had partaken last time more out of nervousness than anything else, and by the time he had, to his surprise, drained the first drink, the second had seemed a good deal more reasonable. A drink in front of him to look less suspicious, nothing more.
The drinks in question were ready soon enough, and he looked back at Alfarinn, raising an eyebrow as he took the drinks in hand.
Lead the way?
Being in the company of a man who stood a head taller than the majority of the other club goers had its advantages, after all. Thaddeus felt they might as well use them; he tended to feel swallowed by this crowd.
Alfarinn
18 years ago
Alfarinn watched as Thaddeus stood politely waiting for the bartender to speak to him. He was charmed as usual by his companion's manners and though it would be a simple thing to flag the man down Thaddeus said he was ordering and it would be rude of him to aid in it, besides he knew the blonde would catch the man's attention eventually. Thaddeus was nobility whether he wished to be called such or not, and the air of command came naturally to him, still polite but with the expectation of being noticed. Alfarinn personally believed it would be difficult for anyone -not- to notice Thaddeus. His way of carrying himself seemed to set him apart from the crowd, he was his own person and it was impossible to ignore.
He raised an eyebrow at the drink choice, wondering if Thaddeus had gotten used to them the last time. It seemed to him that his companion had not been very fond of the drinks but perhaps he was mistaken.
Nodding agreement, Alfarinn gently pushed and wound his way through the crowd. He headed for a booth, every now and then looking back to make sure the masses hadn't closed back in on top of the blonde following behind him.
He stood to the side and let Thaddeus enter first before sliding in behind him. Leaning closer than was strictly necessary, Alfarinn said
"Thank you for the drink."
He raised an eyebrow at the drink choice, wondering if Thaddeus had gotten used to them the last time. It seemed to him that his companion had not been very fond of the drinks but perhaps he was mistaken.
Nodding agreement, Alfarinn gently pushed and wound his way through the crowd. He headed for a booth, every now and then looking back to make sure the masses hadn't closed back in on top of the blonde following behind him.
He stood to the side and let Thaddeus enter first before sliding in behind him. Leaning closer than was strictly necessary, Alfarinn said
"Thank you for the drink."
Thaddeus Grey
18 years ago
Thaddeus had to bite the inside of his cheek to keep from shivering at Alfarinn's voice in his ear. Perhaps, he thought, his own drink would prove useful after all. He took a sip, pulling a face once again at the taste. He had forgotten how those first few tastes had been before his senses were dulled. Recovering with a smile, he turned to his companion, resisting the urge to cover his hand with his own, and leaned in to speak.
I hope it is to your liking.
With that said, he let his eyes scan the club. From this vantage point, he noticed a door that was guarded discreetly by an impressively sized man. He watched for a moment to confirm what he was seeing, then looked over the club more carefully, more at the dark corners and recesses than the people this time. The doors were somewhat concealed; one probably wouldn't notice them if they weren't looking for them. He realized he had been fortunate in sighting the first door; he would not have noticed at all had his eyes been focused just a fraction of an inch in another direction. Thaddeus wondered if they ought to investigate.
This club is larger than I realized. He pointed at the most obvious of the doors, a hint of red in the shadows. Do you know where those lead?
I hope it is to your liking.
With that said, he let his eyes scan the club. From this vantage point, he noticed a door that was guarded discreetly by an impressively sized man. He watched for a moment to confirm what he was seeing, then looked over the club more carefully, more at the dark corners and recesses than the people this time. The doors were somewhat concealed; one probably wouldn't notice them if they weren't looking for them. He realized he had been fortunate in sighting the first door; he would not have noticed at all had his eyes been focused just a fraction of an inch in another direction. Thaddeus wondered if they ought to investigate.
This club is larger than I realized. He pointed at the most obvious of the doors, a hint of red in the shadows. Do you know where those lead?
Alfarinn
18 years ago
Alfarinn leaned back with a sigh and picked up his drink. It was a comforting weight in his hand, giving it something to do other than reach out and touch the man next to him. He took a sip, contemplating ruefully that perhaps he was mistaken. He might drive himself mad -not- touching Thaddeus.
He smiled in satisfaction as the first swallow blazed a trail of fire down his throat. Not the strongest thing he'd ever drank but those weren't legal and probably not even very healthy for a human. He and Zone, his partner in crime, had decided at one point to see just how much alcohol a vampire could tolerate. It was an interesting week or two...from what he could remember of it.
Looking around at the crowd, he did not spot anyone meeting the description of the large blue eyed man. Alfarinn made a note of the tallest and largest people in the room and eyed them from time to time, keeping it random and quick, lest anyone decide he was asking for a fight.
He glanced over at where Thaddeus pointed and grinned. Leaning back over,he said.
"Private rooms for more...-personal- encounters. Want one?" Alfarinn raised his eyebrows innocently trying desperately to hide the smirk that was threatening to form. Turning more serious he stated. "This club caters to our kind, the establishment, some of whom aren't human, are most accommodating. Many use the rooms for a quick meal. They can then go right back to dancing, no inconvenience to their night." Alfarinn shrugged slightly and looked at Thaddeus. They had never discussed what they were and how it affected their daily lives, aside from their involvement with the clans. He wondered just how his companion chose his meals and how he went about feeding in general. There was drinking blood from a glass but Thaddeus was more sensual than he gave himself credit for and Alfarinn just couldn't see him enjoying such a meal on a daily basis. So that left most likely a human source and he wondered if it would make him jealous to watch. Alfarinn wasn't certain.
He smiled in satisfaction as the first swallow blazed a trail of fire down his throat. Not the strongest thing he'd ever drank but those weren't legal and probably not even very healthy for a human. He and Zone, his partner in crime, had decided at one point to see just how much alcohol a vampire could tolerate. It was an interesting week or two...from what he could remember of it.
Looking around at the crowd, he did not spot anyone meeting the description of the large blue eyed man. Alfarinn made a note of the tallest and largest people in the room and eyed them from time to time, keeping it random and quick, lest anyone decide he was asking for a fight.
He glanced over at where Thaddeus pointed and grinned. Leaning back over,he said.
"Private rooms for more...-personal- encounters. Want one?" Alfarinn raised his eyebrows innocently trying desperately to hide the smirk that was threatening to form. Turning more serious he stated. "This club caters to our kind, the establishment, some of whom aren't human, are most accommodating. Many use the rooms for a quick meal. They can then go right back to dancing, no inconvenience to their night." Alfarinn shrugged slightly and looked at Thaddeus. They had never discussed what they were and how it affected their daily lives, aside from their involvement with the clans. He wondered just how his companion chose his meals and how he went about feeding in general. There was drinking blood from a glass but Thaddeus was more sensual than he gave himself credit for and Alfarinn just couldn't see him enjoying such a meal on a daily basis. So that left most likely a human source and he wondered if it would make him jealous to watch. Alfarinn wasn't certain.
Thaddeus Grey
18 years ago
I will pass on the room, I think.
Thaddeus allowed himself to wonder exactly how Alfarinn knew the purpose of such rooms before firmly stamping the thought away. There were just some things that were in no way his business. He could not help but cringe a little at the concept in general, though. Something about slipping off to a room to feed in this place repelled him, though he supposed he was unusually particular in that respect.
That thought, though, gave him pause. Perhaps the younger vampire crowd had the right of it; they were eating, staying in good health and not neglecting themselves, which was wise of them. While one would think they could pull away from the club's activities long enough to maintain themselves, perhaps it was an improvement over being so wrapped up in a project that feeding simply slipped the mind.
The idea of feeding being handled with anything other than the greatest of discretion, though, was off putting in more ways than one. His own motives for prudence were complicated at best, but he felt there were reasons beyond the personal for keeping certain vampire ways secret. Private rooms or no, it seemed this crowd had far less concern for revealing their kind than they ought. And that led only to trouble.
The lack of caution worries me, frankly. I shudder to think of the consequences for our kind if the wrong human should encounter this club.
In any case, I suppose there is no need to investigate that area further.
Thaddeus turned the mostly full glass in his gloved hands, anxious to be doing -something-. He had half hoped there would be a reason to explore the club in greater depth just to be moving, rather than lying in wait.
He reminded himself to be patient. Normally he was more disciplined than this, but he felt somehow pressed for time in this matter. He knew this was partly because soon he and Alfarinn would need to reveal their involvement to their respective Clans, which may cause unpredictable results. He was both anxious to have the secret off his chest and concerned about revealing it, and the conflict only made him want to push harder toward their goal.
Thaddeus allowed himself to wonder exactly how Alfarinn knew the purpose of such rooms before firmly stamping the thought away. There were just some things that were in no way his business. He could not help but cringe a little at the concept in general, though. Something about slipping off to a room to feed in this place repelled him, though he supposed he was unusually particular in that respect.
That thought, though, gave him pause. Perhaps the younger vampire crowd had the right of it; they were eating, staying in good health and not neglecting themselves, which was wise of them. While one would think they could pull away from the club's activities long enough to maintain themselves, perhaps it was an improvement over being so wrapped up in a project that feeding simply slipped the mind.
The idea of feeding being handled with anything other than the greatest of discretion, though, was off putting in more ways than one. His own motives for prudence were complicated at best, but he felt there were reasons beyond the personal for keeping certain vampire ways secret. Private rooms or no, it seemed this crowd had far less concern for revealing their kind than they ought. And that led only to trouble.
The lack of caution worries me, frankly. I shudder to think of the consequences for our kind if the wrong human should encounter this club.
In any case, I suppose there is no need to investigate that area further.
Thaddeus turned the mostly full glass in his gloved hands, anxious to be doing -something-. He had half hoped there would be a reason to explore the club in greater depth just to be moving, rather than lying in wait.
He reminded himself to be patient. Normally he was more disciplined than this, but he felt somehow pressed for time in this matter. He knew this was partly because soon he and Alfarinn would need to reveal their involvement to their respective Clans, which may cause unpredictable results. He was both anxious to have the secret off his chest and concerned about revealing it, and the conflict only made him want to push harder toward their goal.
Simon Huntington
18 years ago
Simon sat for a moment, thinking of Ellis and her parting wink. He would have much rather kissed her instead. Or for that matter, lay in bed, make love and feed each other like they used to before she turned him.
He looked down at his hand and fingered a lone ring on his right hand. A ring that he would've preferred to have on his wedding finger. Immortality cursed him. Life showed you snippets of what love could be. Being immortal just reminded you of what it once was.
With a quick sigh he reached into his breast pocket and pulled out his slim cell phone. Simon stood and started to head towards the bar, passing more booths. He scrolled thru the address book and found his target. He selected the name and pressed send. He reached up with his other hand to plug his ear from all the noise.
He looked down at his hand and fingered a lone ring on his right hand. A ring that he would've preferred to have on his wedding finger. Immortality cursed him. Life showed you snippets of what love could be. Being immortal just reminded you of what it once was.
With a quick sigh he reached into his breast pocket and pulled out his slim cell phone. Simon stood and started to head towards the bar, passing more booths. He scrolled thru the address book and found his target. He selected the name and pressed send. He reached up with his other hand to plug his ear from all the noise.
Alfarinn
18 years ago
Alfarinn grinned at Thaddeus's answer, which was as expected. He brushed his hand across his companion's thigh, squeezing briefly before letting go. "Sometimes they are used for private meetings. Discussions that aren't as easily done out here in the open. "
He frowned in thought of some of the things he'd seen in passing behind the closed doors, on his way to a meeting with various people that his duties required of him. Some vampires were more flippant and cruel than they had any right to be. Alfarinn never understood some of the interests of his kind but over the years you had to turn a jaded eye to some of the cruelties vampires committed in the name of feeding in order to save your energy for larger battles. It still always sat wrong with him, humans weren't simply cattle and every undead in the place had once been one. How hard was that to remember?
Turning back to Thaddeus at his companion's words, Alfarinn sighed.
"We are a myth, and many more of the ones prowling around here pretending to bite people and with their outlandish costumes and fake fangs are humans. Most of our kind are more subtle. " He took a swallow of his drink and watched the crowd. "Certainly not all but the very obvious nature of the place covers what we are. You could bare your fangs and declare yourself as an immortal and no one would even blink. Do I agree with such practices? No.. even I, an Evenhet, do not."
He smiled faintly at Thaddeus knowing that here was a core difference in their clans. It was something they would probably never agree on. "It makes us a side show. There is no respect here, we are a spectacle. There cannot be a working relationship between humans and vampires when both are not taken seriously. Humans have rights, they aren't simply food and vampires are more than monsters with bad dental plans. Evenhet tends to be more responsible in its involvement with mortals, we have a very long time to see our plans through and we aren't about to rush into anything. Some though... Youth, they enjoy the power and the novelty. It wears off or it fades. One just hopes they don't cause too much chaos before either thing happens. Sometimes damage control has to be done. " Many times he was the one sent to do it, though thankfully Megan generally took care of punishing the vampires responsible for dangerous indiscretions, Alfarinn was responsible for dealing with the humans of such mistakes, deciding with his empathy and observation how best to handle them. He could go on about the topic of the two races for hours but it was a debate that probably wouldn't ever be resolved with an Anantya and he'd rather not argue with Thaddeus.
"Is there something else you'd like to do? We could...dance, that would allow us to mingle in the crowd."
He frowned in thought of some of the things he'd seen in passing behind the closed doors, on his way to a meeting with various people that his duties required of him. Some vampires were more flippant and cruel than they had any right to be. Alfarinn never understood some of the interests of his kind but over the years you had to turn a jaded eye to some of the cruelties vampires committed in the name of feeding in order to save your energy for larger battles. It still always sat wrong with him, humans weren't simply cattle and every undead in the place had once been one. How hard was that to remember?
Turning back to Thaddeus at his companion's words, Alfarinn sighed.
"We are a myth, and many more of the ones prowling around here pretending to bite people and with their outlandish costumes and fake fangs are humans. Most of our kind are more subtle. " He took a swallow of his drink and watched the crowd. "Certainly not all but the very obvious nature of the place covers what we are. You could bare your fangs and declare yourself as an immortal and no one would even blink. Do I agree with such practices? No.. even I, an Evenhet, do not."
He smiled faintly at Thaddeus knowing that here was a core difference in their clans. It was something they would probably never agree on. "It makes us a side show. There is no respect here, we are a spectacle. There cannot be a working relationship between humans and vampires when both are not taken seriously. Humans have rights, they aren't simply food and vampires are more than monsters with bad dental plans. Evenhet tends to be more responsible in its involvement with mortals, we have a very long time to see our plans through and we aren't about to rush into anything. Some though... Youth, they enjoy the power and the novelty. It wears off or it fades. One just hopes they don't cause too much chaos before either thing happens. Sometimes damage control has to be done. " Many times he was the one sent to do it, though thankfully Megan generally took care of punishing the vampires responsible for dangerous indiscretions, Alfarinn was responsible for dealing with the humans of such mistakes, deciding with his empathy and observation how best to handle them. He could go on about the topic of the two races for hours but it was a debate that probably wouldn't ever be resolved with an Anantya and he'd rather not argue with Thaddeus.
"Is there something else you'd like to do? We could...dance, that would allow us to mingle in the crowd."
Thaddeus Grey
18 years ago
Thaddeus relaxed at Alfarinn's tactful explanation and quite pleasant touch. When the Evenhet continued, though, he could not help but frown thoughtfully, his mind lingering in particular over the other man's final words.
'Sometimes damage control has to be done.'
Thaddeus could understand that well enough. He had some amount of experience with the consequences of vampires acting recklessly toward mortals. Severe consequences. He had, in fact, dedicated a fair portion of himself to keeping the secrets of his Clan, and by consequence his kind, safe, and had little patience for blatant disregard of their safety.
The trouble was, in his eyes, that vampires were at a tactical disadvantage. He personally saw little hope in a situation where humans could, and more than likely would, dedicate their numbers to wiping out every vampire on the planet given the knowledge and opportunity, but vampires could not respond in kind. They simply needed mortals more than mortals needed them. Humans had no real reason to work with Vampires and cultivate better relations between the races, and Thaddeus was suspicious of the idea of any mortal claming interest in cooperation.
Hiding in plain sight cannot last indefinitely. I suppose we can only hope as the current generation of vampires matures, they will see the importance of keeping their kind safe from a human's idea of race relations. While it may be entertaining to some to believe humans see us as a novelty, the hatred for our kind is as real as the contempt some vampires feel for mortals.
He sighed, realizing that debating the matter was likely a losing proposition. Neither man was likely to change his mind in this. Instead, he answered Alfarinn's invitation, as he should have simply done from the beginning.
In any case, I cannot turn down the offer of a dance. It is a weakness of mine, I confess.
This will, you understand, be a new experience for me. Not the first you have shown me by any means. I just feel compelled to forewarn you, or your toes.
Or perhaps my true weakness is simply Alfarinn himself. I must be out of my mind, dancing here.
Thaddeus had no wish to come down on what in Alfarinn's case were truly well intentioned ideals. A part of him hoped the other man could understand his point of view, or at least credit him for being equally well intentioned, but he understood they would not agree on nearly everything. Another part believed that if anyone could manage to make better race relations a reality, it was Alfarinn, though history proved such figures were often too short lived for comfort.
'Sometimes damage control has to be done.'
Thaddeus could understand that well enough. He had some amount of experience with the consequences of vampires acting recklessly toward mortals. Severe consequences. He had, in fact, dedicated a fair portion of himself to keeping the secrets of his Clan, and by consequence his kind, safe, and had little patience for blatant disregard of their safety.
The trouble was, in his eyes, that vampires were at a tactical disadvantage. He personally saw little hope in a situation where humans could, and more than likely would, dedicate their numbers to wiping out every vampire on the planet given the knowledge and opportunity, but vampires could not respond in kind. They simply needed mortals more than mortals needed them. Humans had no real reason to work with Vampires and cultivate better relations between the races, and Thaddeus was suspicious of the idea of any mortal claming interest in cooperation.
Hiding in plain sight cannot last indefinitely. I suppose we can only hope as the current generation of vampires matures, they will see the importance of keeping their kind safe from a human's idea of race relations. While it may be entertaining to some to believe humans see us as a novelty, the hatred for our kind is as real as the contempt some vampires feel for mortals.
He sighed, realizing that debating the matter was likely a losing proposition. Neither man was likely to change his mind in this. Instead, he answered Alfarinn's invitation, as he should have simply done from the beginning.
In any case, I cannot turn down the offer of a dance. It is a weakness of mine, I confess.
This will, you understand, be a new experience for me. Not the first you have shown me by any means. I just feel compelled to forewarn you, or your toes.
Or perhaps my true weakness is simply Alfarinn himself. I must be out of my mind, dancing here.
Thaddeus had no wish to come down on what in Alfarinn's case were truly well intentioned ideals. A part of him hoped the other man could understand his point of view, or at least credit him for being equally well intentioned, but he understood they would not agree on nearly everything. Another part believed that if anyone could manage to make better race relations a reality, it was Alfarinn, though history proved such figures were often too short lived for comfort.
Alfarinn
18 years ago
Alfarinn reminded himself again that he was not going to argue. This was a debate that they probably didn't need to have at all, much less have in the middle of a club. He'd far rather, if it were ever to be discussed, that it was done in the privacy of the apartment where he could wrap his arms around Thaddeus and assure him that their differing opinions didn't cause him offense and that he intended none himself. It was just in his nature to love to debate and he knew his companion had a keen intelligence, along with the ability to express himself quite well. Alfarinn would always respect Thaddeus's opinion, he couldn't admire the man as much as he did and not pay heed to his companion's beliefs.
He frowned as Thaddeus's words replayed in his mind, not that they were wrong, on the contrary, there -were- humans that hated vampire kind. It was simply an odd view to take. Not even Anantya's normal stance, which seemed to be 'humans are beneath us', 'not to be trusted' and 'not worth dealing with except as food', no, this was stated as mortals hated vampires and not the other way around. It seemed to Alfarinn that this opinion had to have come from personal experience and it pained him to think what the man beside him might have suffered to have given him such an outlook on humans. There was a renewed feeling of pride along with sadness when he contemplated his companion's past, Thaddeus had been a vampire child, orphaned by one of the worst kinds of tragedies, who's unlife continued to bring hardship and yet he had come through these years with dignity and honor, still passionate, if wary, and so full of life. Alfarinn, who had shut down, and wanted to simply have it all end, was utterly amazed by his companion's inner strength.
He leaned forward, all inclination to debate having vanished with his musing, and murmured in Thaddeus's ear.
"Remind me later to tell you just how remarkable you are."
That Thaddeus agreed to dance with him would have come as a surprise to some, perhaps even to himself at some earlier point but Alfarinn was very much aware that there was no way to label the man next to him, nor did he want to. He smiled quietly and slid from the booth, turning back to reach out a hand to Thaddeus.
Alfarinn led them both to a reasonable gap in the dancing crowd, hoping to at least start with a bit of room before they were jostled by strangers. Placing his hands on Thaddeus hips, he sighed and pulled him close enough for them to occasionally brush together as they moved to the loud driving rhythm.
And then his phone went off.
He wrapped an arm around Thaddeus, not willing to let him go, while he fetched the slender silver device. Reading the caller ID display, caused his brow to crease in concern. He turned the phone around for Thaddeus to read before he flipped it open to answer it.
" This is a surprise. Something troubling you?" Out of habit he made no mention of the man's name though this day and age it rarely mattered when the call itself would be easier to trace.
He frowned as Thaddeus's words replayed in his mind, not that they were wrong, on the contrary, there -were- humans that hated vampire kind. It was simply an odd view to take. Not even Anantya's normal stance, which seemed to be 'humans are beneath us', 'not to be trusted' and 'not worth dealing with except as food', no, this was stated as mortals hated vampires and not the other way around. It seemed to Alfarinn that this opinion had to have come from personal experience and it pained him to think what the man beside him might have suffered to have given him such an outlook on humans. There was a renewed feeling of pride along with sadness when he contemplated his companion's past, Thaddeus had been a vampire child, orphaned by one of the worst kinds of tragedies, who's unlife continued to bring hardship and yet he had come through these years with dignity and honor, still passionate, if wary, and so full of life. Alfarinn, who had shut down, and wanted to simply have it all end, was utterly amazed by his companion's inner strength.
He leaned forward, all inclination to debate having vanished with his musing, and murmured in Thaddeus's ear.
"Remind me later to tell you just how remarkable you are."
That Thaddeus agreed to dance with him would have come as a surprise to some, perhaps even to himself at some earlier point but Alfarinn was very much aware that there was no way to label the man next to him, nor did he want to. He smiled quietly and slid from the booth, turning back to reach out a hand to Thaddeus.
Alfarinn led them both to a reasonable gap in the dancing crowd, hoping to at least start with a bit of room before they were jostled by strangers. Placing his hands on Thaddeus hips, he sighed and pulled him close enough for them to occasionally brush together as they moved to the loud driving rhythm.
And then his phone went off.
He wrapped an arm around Thaddeus, not willing to let him go, while he fetched the slender silver device. Reading the caller ID display, caused his brow to crease in concern. He turned the phone around for Thaddeus to read before he flipped it open to answer it.
" This is a surprise. Something troubling you?" Out of habit he made no mention of the man's name though this day and age it rarely mattered when the call itself would be easier to trace.
Thaddeus Grey
18 years ago
Thaddeus, concerned that he had, perhaps, said the wrong thing, was slightly thrown by the compliment in the midst of a political discussion. He was, in fact, rendered quite speechless as Alfarinn led him to a somewhat open area of the floor. Meaning, in this place, that in another ten minutes they would be completely surrounded by people. While he did not believe he would ever be fully at ease with the club's general atmosphere, in particular their unique ideas about personal space, he had to concede one point; they were not being stared at. Well, truth be told Alfarinn would always turn heads, but onlookers quickly turned back to their own activities. This served the purpose of making Thaddeus a bit less edgy in addition to making the dance floor a good vantage point.
Dancing with this man, in public no less, was both different and pleasant. Unfortunately, that was as far as he got in cultivating his opinion of the activity before Alfarinn's cell phone interrupted further musings and enjoyments.
His face snapped to seriousness in an instant. His mind fired off possible scenarios as he scanned the club carefully, making an honest effort to look relaxed. Were they being watched? Followed? He had to assume they were.
Thaddeus rested a hand casually on Alfarinn's chest and continued to keep his eyes open. In the back of his mind, he reasoned that this could be a simple friendly phone call to chat, but thinking the worst and being pleasantly surprised was certainly more practical than entering a situation with foolish optimism only to end up in a grave situation.
His mind took in the distance to the main exit and the amount of people in the way. There could be other exits he was not aware of and sorely regretted not asking Alfarinn.
Alfarinn seemed his usual collected self; only a flicker of concern crossed his features before he answered the call, but Thaddeus had learned to take even that small gesture seriously. Still, Thaddeus knew this was all they could do; stay calm, continue playing the role of two semi-innocent club goers simply looking for a good time, and be ready for Simon's move.
Dancing with this man, in public no less, was both different and pleasant. Unfortunately, that was as far as he got in cultivating his opinion of the activity before Alfarinn's cell phone interrupted further musings and enjoyments.
His face snapped to seriousness in an instant. His mind fired off possible scenarios as he scanned the club carefully, making an honest effort to look relaxed. Were they being watched? Followed? He had to assume they were.
Thaddeus rested a hand casually on Alfarinn's chest and continued to keep his eyes open. In the back of his mind, he reasoned that this could be a simple friendly phone call to chat, but thinking the worst and being pleasantly surprised was certainly more practical than entering a situation with foolish optimism only to end up in a grave situation.
His mind took in the distance to the main exit and the amount of people in the way. There could be other exits he was not aware of and sorely regretted not asking Alfarinn.
Alfarinn seemed his usual collected self; only a flicker of concern crossed his features before he answered the call, but Thaddeus had learned to take even that small gesture seriously. Still, Thaddeus knew this was all they could do; stay calm, continue playing the role of two semi-innocent club goers simply looking for a good time, and be ready for Simon's move.
Simon Huntington
18 years ago
"This is a surprise. Something troubling you?"
Simon barely heard Alfarinn's voice over the music, although his voice was unblievable loud and in stereo. He blinked and listened into his phone.
He heard music.
'Alfarinn, sorry to bother you but...where are you, are you in House of Pain?' Simon looked around, checking the booths when suddenly his eyes landed on the blonde vampire standing in the sea of gyrating bodies. He was standing close to another man who did not seem to fit the leather wearing type. Simon was most definitely curious.
Simon barely heard Alfarinn's voice over the music, although his voice was unblievable loud and in stereo. He blinked and listened into his phone.
He heard music.
'Alfarinn, sorry to bother you but...where are you, are you in House of Pain?' Simon looked around, checking the booths when suddenly his eyes landed on the blonde vampire standing in the sea of gyrating bodies. He was standing close to another man who did not seem to fit the leather wearing type. Simon was most definitely curious.
Alfarinn
18 years ago
He hugged Thaddeus reassuringly as his head turned in search for the Tacharan. It wasn't difficult to spot him, Simon was only a couple of inches shorter than Alfarinn and stood out equally well over the tops of most people's heads.
"Why no, I'm sitting at home, getting ready for bed, enjoying a spot of tea. You know me, I hardly ever go out." He grinned over at the man from where he stood.
Alfarinn led them both towards Simon, flipping the phone closed once he'd reached the Tacharan. With a nod of his head, he indicated the booth they had just left, as he continued to pick a path through the crowd.
He let Thaddeus in first and then slid in beside him, laying on hand on his thigh. There was no point in hiding their involvement from Simon who had already seen them, so Alfarinn wasn't going to bother trying, it would only make things stand out more quickly to the Tacharan.
"What can I do for you, Simon?"
"Why no, I'm sitting at home, getting ready for bed, enjoying a spot of tea. You know me, I hardly ever go out." He grinned over at the man from where he stood.
Alfarinn led them both towards Simon, flipping the phone closed once he'd reached the Tacharan. With a nod of his head, he indicated the booth they had just left, as he continued to pick a path through the crowd.
He let Thaddeus in first and then slid in beside him, laying on hand on his thigh. There was no point in hiding their involvement from Simon who had already seen them, so Alfarinn wasn't going to bother trying, it would only make things stand out more quickly to the Tacharan.
"What can I do for you, Simon?"
Thaddeus Grey
18 years ago
Thaddeus, uncertain of how exactly Alfarinn wanted to play this hand and unable to hear both sides of the very brief conversation, followed the other man's lead back to the booth. He took one last look around in an attempt to see if anyone other than Simon appeared to be watching them, and slid into the booth.
This wasn't the first time he had noticed that Alfarinn preferred to sit on the outside. He had assumed it was more comfortable for his long legs, but another possibility occurred to him; was the Evenhet being protective?
The hand on his leg somewhat confirmed his suspicions. Thaddeus moved closer, covering that hand with his own and catching onto Alfarinn's plan. Acting the charming couple who couldn't keep their hands off each other would be useful for more than just blending in; it kept Alfarinn close to him and gave him an excuse to keep his hands somewhere other than where Simon could see. It never hurt to think ahead, after all. Thaddeus sincerely hoped that no matter what happened, it would not come to blows, but if Simon or some hidden thug tried something, there simply could not be hesitation.
Alfarinn was still quite calm and seemed cheerful enough to see his friend, though Thaddeus wondered what kind of friendship could be maintained when one party could very well be spying on the other. He gave his companion a little smile and took a sip of his drink, watching Simon out of the corner of his eye rather than directly.
He realized, belatedly, that he could not see the exit, and cursed inwardly.
This wasn't the first time he had noticed that Alfarinn preferred to sit on the outside. He had assumed it was more comfortable for his long legs, but another possibility occurred to him; was the Evenhet being protective?
The hand on his leg somewhat confirmed his suspicions. Thaddeus moved closer, covering that hand with his own and catching onto Alfarinn's plan. Acting the charming couple who couldn't keep their hands off each other would be useful for more than just blending in; it kept Alfarinn close to him and gave him an excuse to keep his hands somewhere other than where Simon could see. It never hurt to think ahead, after all. Thaddeus sincerely hoped that no matter what happened, it would not come to blows, but if Simon or some hidden thug tried something, there simply could not be hesitation.
Alfarinn was still quite calm and seemed cheerful enough to see his friend, though Thaddeus wondered what kind of friendship could be maintained when one party could very well be spying on the other. He gave his companion a little smile and took a sip of his drink, watching Simon out of the corner of his eye rather than directly.
He realized, belatedly, that he could not see the exit, and cursed inwardly.
Simon Huntington
18 years ago
Simon could see Alafrinn's partner eyes darting around. Inwardly he smiled embarassed as he sat down across from the two. He was checking for the exits, Simon concluded. He put his hands up on the table and turned his palms up. They were empty, no guns, no daggers and it hoped it would put them at ease.
'I was curious about something from the other night.' He leaned forward so he didnt have to raise his voice too high. 'Its regarding what I asked you about in the sewers.' Simon then turned to look at Alafrinn's companion. 'Let me first introduce myself to your friend, I dont believe we've met.' Reaching out, Simon offered his hand to the other blonde. 'I'm Simon Huntington of Tacharan.'
'I was curious about something from the other night.' He leaned forward so he didnt have to raise his voice too high. 'Its regarding what I asked you about in the sewers.' Simon then turned to look at Alafrinn's companion. 'Let me first introduce myself to your friend, I dont believe we've met.' Reaching out, Simon offered his hand to the other blonde. 'I'm Simon Huntington of Tacharan.'
Thaddeus Grey
18 years ago
Thaddeus raised an eyebrow, surprised and somewhat relieved at the show of good faith. Of course, he wouldn't lower his guard, but such displays should be reciprocated if either party hoped to accomplish anything. He slipped off his right glove and took the offered hand.
Thaddeus Grey of Anantya.
He let the handshake linger, pulling his fingertips along the inside of Simon's palm, taking in the texture of his skin.
Not him. Directly, anyway. But there is a reason he is so concerned with that ring, even if he did not touch it himself.
Well met.
He removed the other glove and rested both hands on the tabletop. The ground was as equal as he could make it; he wondered what Simon would do with it.
Thaddeus Grey of Anantya.
He let the handshake linger, pulling his fingertips along the inside of Simon's palm, taking in the texture of his skin.
Not him. Directly, anyway. But there is a reason he is so concerned with that ring, even if he did not touch it himself.
Well met.
He removed the other glove and rested both hands on the tabletop. The ground was as equal as he could make it; he wondered what Simon would do with it.
Alfarinn
18 years ago
Alfarinn was comforted by the hand covering his own, at least Thaddeus wasn't going to push him away this time, right now he could use that small bit of contact. He didn't expect there to be trouble with Simon but the man would do anything for Ellis and if there was one person on this earth that could cook up a scheme, it was that woman. So, he'd rather have Thaddeus close to him, able to signaled if they needed to leave in a hurry and reassured if necessary. Plus, it helped him think, not that he could forget the blonde was sitting so close to him but the tactile reminder let his brain know that he couldn't afford to play as fast and loose, caution to the wind, as he sometimes might.
He watched them both as they got their introductions out of the way, each seeming to take the measure of the other, Alfarinn was darkly amused at how their kind always seemed to circle each other like wary animals. Being a creature that hunted as a necessity made one wary...or dead. Trust was earned, not assumed, such was their way.
"So what about the other night?" Alfarinn took another swallow of his drink and held it up to Simon in question. "Can we get you anything?"
He watched them both as they got their introductions out of the way, each seeming to take the measure of the other, Alfarinn was darkly amused at how their kind always seemed to circle each other like wary animals. Being a creature that hunted as a necessity made one wary...or dead. Trust was earned, not assumed, such was their way.
"So what about the other night?" Alfarinn took another swallow of his drink and held it up to Simon in question. "Can we get you anything?"
Simon Huntington
18 years ago
Simon's eyes flicked towards Alfarinn when Thaddeus mentioned Anantya. He watched Thaddeus take off his black glove and then shake his hand, lingering as he pulled away. He had seen that before and he was pretty sure he had seen Thaddeus before, only as a small white dove in an otherwise dank, dirty place. Thaddeus was psychometric or an empath, he hadn't quite decided yet although he didnt know of any Anantya that were empathic.
Simon laced his fingers and smiled. 'I can only imagine why the both of you would want the ring as well.' He paused. 'But let me assure you, Tacharan does not want it but we were inadvertently drawn in by another source. I just want to know what is going on and how it will affect us.'
Simon laced his fingers and smiled. 'I can only imagine why the both of you would want the ring as well.' He paused. 'But let me assure you, Tacharan does not want it but we were inadvertently drawn in by another source. I just want to know what is going on and how it will affect us.'
Alfarinn
18 years ago
Alfarinn blinked once in shock, processing what Simon just said. He -did- say what he thought he said?...yes. What in all hell was going on here? It seemed like everyone knew about this and the two people most unaware of what was taking place all around them were him and Thaddeus. Alfarinn was getting the uneasy feeling of a person who was being played, he didn't like it at all, and it was time to end the game if at all possible.
"Unfortunately, I don't have it. I believe you know as well as I do that Mai found it. It is still in the hands of Clan Anantya."
He sighed and thought about his answer a moment, squeezing Thaddeus's hand gently in reassurance. 'The truth shall set you free' Alfarinn mused dryly, before saying.
"My own involvement came about because I knew the owner of the ring." And was a prime suspect, odd how these things turn out. " Perhaps we can help each other out?"
He concentrated on sensing his companion before saying anything more, this affected Thaddeus most of all, the ring in question was his now, not to mention, he had the most at stake, in Alfarinn's mind. Simon might be able to give them the information they were looking for and he already knew about the ring, there was not much reason to withhold anything else. Still Alfarinn would rather know his companion's thoughts on it so he knew just how much to say.
"Unfortunately, I don't have it. I believe you know as well as I do that Mai found it. It is still in the hands of Clan Anantya."
He sighed and thought about his answer a moment, squeezing Thaddeus's hand gently in reassurance. 'The truth shall set you free' Alfarinn mused dryly, before saying.
"My own involvement came about because I knew the owner of the ring." And was a prime suspect, odd how these things turn out. " Perhaps we can help each other out?"
He concentrated on sensing his companion before saying anything more, this affected Thaddeus most of all, the ring in question was his now, not to mention, he had the most at stake, in Alfarinn's mind. Simon might be able to give them the information they were looking for and he already knew about the ring, there was not much reason to withhold anything else. Still Alfarinn would rather know his companion's thoughts on it so he knew just how much to say.
Simon Huntington
18 years ago
Again Simon opened up his hands, facing the palms up. 'I dont expect all to be revealed here, but Alafrinn you and I have known each other a long time. I may be Ellis' pet, but I'm no liar and scheming just doesn't do it for me.' He grinned.
'I offer quid pro quo.' Simon wasn't sure just how valuable his information would be to Alafrinn but he had no loyalty to The Wolf. He would let the motherfucker swing and do it with a smile. 'First, what is the ring's importance?'
'I offer quid pro quo.' Simon wasn't sure just how valuable his information would be to Alafrinn but he had no loyalty to The Wolf. He would let the motherfucker swing and do it with a smile. 'First, what is the ring's importance?'