Thaddeus's smirk softened and he looked Alfarinn in the eyes before reaching up to stroke his cheek. He had meant his comment lightly, and while Alfarinn did not seem genuinely offended, he would prefer to be clear.
"Being with you is all the honor I need."Â?
He chuckled at Alfarinn's polite decline, agreeing that neither of them would have much luck focusing on a game at the moment. He nodded his head, his expression turning serious once more though there was still a hint of playfulness behind it.
"Very well."Â?
He pulled the towel off from around his waist with a raised eyebrow and took Alfarinn's as well, hanging both up to dry. Smiling gently, he reached out, letting his fingertips trail lightly down the length of Alfarinn's chest before finding his way to the other man's hand, which he took in his own. Lacing their fingers together, he quietly led Alfarinn to his bedroom, glancing over his shoulder as he moved. He released the Evenhet long enough to push aside the white curtains before pulling Alfarinn down to sit on the edge of the bed. Placing his hands lightly on his lover's shoulders, he leaned forward and kissed Alfarinn soundly and deeply as he joined him, one knee to either side of the other man's thighs.
Hoping Alfarinn was quite comfortable now, he moved his kisses down along that perfect jaw line, sucking and tasting tenderly as he made his way to the hollow of his throat. Giving the soft skin there a feather light kiss, he then turned his attention back up the side of Alfarinn's neck. His hands, meanwhile found their own path up Alfarinn's back and into his hair. He sighed and pulled closer as he stroked and let the strands fall through his fingers, pausing other movements for just a moment to enjoy that sensation before continuing his way upward to the spot just behind and below Alfarinn's ear. This he gave a playful lick before whispering softly.
"Check."Â?
Grinning against the cool skin under his lips, he quickly made good on implied promises and gave Alfarinn's earlobe a playful tugging nip.
Waiting
Alfarinn wandered about Thaddeus's quarters or perhaps it would be more accurate to say he prowled like a caged cat. It was better than being in his own home though, at least here there were things of interest that would cause him to pause and smile.
Thaddeus had quite the collection of books and Alfarinn stood in front of the bookcases for a while taking in some of the titles. He smiled at the rows of books that looked similar to Thaddeus's current journal and wondered if by the time his companion reached several thousand years of age they'd have to get him his own library for them.
There was no use picking up anything to read, He knew he'd simply stare blankly at the pages. Heading upstairs, Alfarinn paused at the grand piano and reached out a hand to touch it lightly on the cover, the image of his lover came instantly to his mind, hands playing over the keys with an easy grace, head tilted to the side and eyes partly closed as the music carried him away to a place of peace. Alfarinn could almost hear the music, he sighed and felt more at ease.
He decided it would be better to try and continue on with something that would be more relaxing, or at least stop his pacing. Wandering into the large bathroom Alfarinn was glad to see Thaddeus had a tub as well as the shower he had mentioned briefly.
Sitting on the edge, he leaned over and began to run the hot water. Alfarinn made sure that a towel was handy and then undressed, folding his clothes neatly and setting them on a counter. Looking around for something to hold up his hair, He finally reached back into his pocket and pulled out his pen. Tieing the hair up in a loose knot, he secured this with the writing utensil now made hair accessory.
Alfarinn turned off the water and slid into the tub with a sigh. While his mind was still miles away wondering how his companion was faring, his body at least was starting to relax. He hadn't been aware of how tense he'd been until the warm water began to loosen his limbs a tiny bit at a time. Eventually, he leaned back and closed his eyes, images of Thaddeus doing the very same caused him to smile briefly before his mind wandered back onto possibilities he'd rather not contemplate.
'He'll be back soon' Alfarinn told his wayward thoughts firmly before leaning up and finding the soap and a washcloth.
Thaddeus Grey
18 years ago
Alfarinn
18 years ago
Alfarinn smiled at the sentiment he could whole heartedly agree with and said as much.
"Likewise."
He opened his mouth to say something more as his towel was taken away from him. A brieft thought came to him about making a protest claiming some form of false modesty but Alfarinn decided there was no way he could come anywhere close to appearing to mean it.
Being led to the bed was nice and he reflected upon how the change in surroundings might affect his companion. This place had been Thaddeus's home for several centuries now and he wondered just how the comfortable feeling of familiarity might help his companion's confidence...not, he reflected as Thaddeus straddled him, that the Anantya seemed to need any help in that area.
His lover had ceased to be the shy individual that blushed so fiercely even when they were alone at some point in their relationship and Alfarinn found it endearing to see this playful aggressive side of Thaddeus, knowing that it meant he was secure in their relationship together. Of course being able to feel his emotions and just how this was affecting him probably helped. Alfarinn didn't get much further with that line of thought as the kisses drove them completely out of his mind and the touch of those hands sent shivers up his spine. All thought was utterly lost the moment Thaddeus got to his ear.
"Mmmm." It wasn't a coherent answer at all but at present it was the only vocal acknowledgment he felt capable of giving. He held on tightly his hands that had rested easily on Thaddeus's hips and pulled the blonde tight against him. Opening his eyes, he stared at his companion with some amusement and no small amount of desire.
"Going straight for the kill at the start of the game...bold strategy."
Having said that, Alfarinn put one arm around his companion's back and another underneath him, picking Thaddeus up as he stood. Turning back to the bed, Alfarinn laid his lover back down on it and rested himself on top of him. Leaning down, he nipped his companion gently on the neck before pushing himself up to lean on his hands and smile down at his companion.
"You're move."
"Likewise."
He opened his mouth to say something more as his towel was taken away from him. A brieft thought came to him about making a protest claiming some form of false modesty but Alfarinn decided there was no way he could come anywhere close to appearing to mean it.
Being led to the bed was nice and he reflected upon how the change in surroundings might affect his companion. This place had been Thaddeus's home for several centuries now and he wondered just how the comfortable feeling of familiarity might help his companion's confidence...not, he reflected as Thaddeus straddled him, that the Anantya seemed to need any help in that area.
His lover had ceased to be the shy individual that blushed so fiercely even when they were alone at some point in their relationship and Alfarinn found it endearing to see this playful aggressive side of Thaddeus, knowing that it meant he was secure in their relationship together. Of course being able to feel his emotions and just how this was affecting him probably helped. Alfarinn didn't get much further with that line of thought as the kisses drove them completely out of his mind and the touch of those hands sent shivers up his spine. All thought was utterly lost the moment Thaddeus got to his ear.
"Mmmm." It wasn't a coherent answer at all but at present it was the only vocal acknowledgment he felt capable of giving. He held on tightly his hands that had rested easily on Thaddeus's hips and pulled the blonde tight against him. Opening his eyes, he stared at his companion with some amusement and no small amount of desire.
"Going straight for the kill at the start of the game...bold strategy."
Having said that, Alfarinn put one arm around his companion's back and another underneath him, picking Thaddeus up as he stood. Turning back to the bed, Alfarinn laid his lover back down on it and rested himself on top of him. Leaning down, he nipped his companion gently on the neck before pushing himself up to lean on his hands and smile down at his companion.
"You're move."
Thaddeus Grey
18 years ago
Thaddeus tightened his grip on Alfarinn as he was pulled closer, still focused on nibbling the other man's ear. A part of him wanted nothing more than to bury his cheek in Alfarinn's neck and simply hold on, and he did just that as his lover lifted him from the bed.
There was nothing quite like the feel of Alfarinn's weight on top of him; it was a sensation he delighted in, being pressed so close that the breath was taken out of him. Who needed to breathe, after all, when there was this closeness? He had time to make a soft sigh when Alfarinn kissed his neck, but all too soon the other man was pulling away. Thaddeus looked up at his lover, smiling but curious.
He chuckled at Alfarinn's pronouncement and reached one foot out to free the curtain wrapped around the bed post, letting it fall behind them and surrounding them in dim filtered light.
"Blocking the means of retreat. Another essential strategy."Â?
He seriously doubted there would be any escape attempts today, but it was pleasant to shut out everything save the bed they were on for just a while. Hopefully a long while; it would be hours before they could leave the Manor and accomplish anything, after all, even if there was work to do. Something in the back of his mind told him he was not quite correct, that there was something he was forgetting, but he couldn't place it. The point was, he thought, that they had time, and Thaddeus had every intention of putting it to good use.
He ran his fingertips along the spaces between Alfarinn's ribs, smiling up at his lover before putting his arms around him and pulling him down once more. He kissed Alfarinn more insistently now, running his hands over the other man's shoulders and down his back. He sucked gently on Alfarinn's lower lip as he grazed his fingertips over smooth cool skin, moving one hand to soft blonde hair as the other found long slim fingers.
Breaking the kiss slowly, he pulled Alfarinn's hand up to his lips, kissing the top of each finger softly before taking the first in his mouth, letting his tongue swirl around it. As he moved to the palm of Alfairnn's hand, down to the inside of his wrist, he turned his hips to move them both to their sides, staying as close as he could and still move down to the soft inside of the other man's elbow, alternating light kisses with the occasional nip or lick along the way.
He moved from there to Alfarinn's chest, kissing between each rib where early he had touched, before letting one hand brush over a nipple. This he then favored with a flick of his tongue before finding its mate and doing the same again. He let his hand trail down Alfarinn's side to his hip, where he allowed it to rest as he made his way back up to his lover's mouth.
[You truly are remarkable, you know.]
There was nothing quite like the feel of Alfarinn's weight on top of him; it was a sensation he delighted in, being pressed so close that the breath was taken out of him. Who needed to breathe, after all, when there was this closeness? He had time to make a soft sigh when Alfarinn kissed his neck, but all too soon the other man was pulling away. Thaddeus looked up at his lover, smiling but curious.
He chuckled at Alfarinn's pronouncement and reached one foot out to free the curtain wrapped around the bed post, letting it fall behind them and surrounding them in dim filtered light.
"Blocking the means of retreat. Another essential strategy."Â?
He seriously doubted there would be any escape attempts today, but it was pleasant to shut out everything save the bed they were on for just a while. Hopefully a long while; it would be hours before they could leave the Manor and accomplish anything, after all, even if there was work to do. Something in the back of his mind told him he was not quite correct, that there was something he was forgetting, but he couldn't place it. The point was, he thought, that they had time, and Thaddeus had every intention of putting it to good use.
He ran his fingertips along the spaces between Alfarinn's ribs, smiling up at his lover before putting his arms around him and pulling him down once more. He kissed Alfarinn more insistently now, running his hands over the other man's shoulders and down his back. He sucked gently on Alfarinn's lower lip as he grazed his fingertips over smooth cool skin, moving one hand to soft blonde hair as the other found long slim fingers.
Breaking the kiss slowly, he pulled Alfarinn's hand up to his lips, kissing the top of each finger softly before taking the first in his mouth, letting his tongue swirl around it. As he moved to the palm of Alfairnn's hand, down to the inside of his wrist, he turned his hips to move them both to their sides, staying as close as he could and still move down to the soft inside of the other man's elbow, alternating light kisses with the occasional nip or lick along the way.
He moved from there to Alfarinn's chest, kissing between each rib where early he had touched, before letting one hand brush over a nipple. This he then favored with a flick of his tongue before finding its mate and doing the same again. He let his hand trail down Alfarinn's side to his hip, where he allowed it to rest as he made his way back up to his lover's mouth.
[You truly are remarkable, you know.]
Alfarinn
18 years ago
Alfarinn laughed at the curtains being loosened and watched his companion with affection.
"Hmmm, it would seem I am surrounded."
Thaddeus's hand found his hair and there was a sense of rightness about the moment, everything was as it should be, they were together, content, enjoying each other, his arms around his lover and Thaddeus's hand was in his hair, Alfarinn sighed happily.
He looked on as his companion took his hand and smiled at the gentle kiss to each finger, his eyes widened at the implied promise as Thaddeus brought his finger into his mouth, he could easily imagine those soft lips and cunning tongue elsewhere as well and sighed in anticipation. Thaddeus continued his exploration of him and Alfarinn found that more sighs escaped him, making him smile inwardly at the thought of being played like a fiddle, in the best possible of ways, Thaddeus evoking the most interesting sounds from him. He was content for the moment to simply hold onto his companion and feel the sensations of Thaddeus's attention, arching into each kiss, lick or touch.
Alfarinn found himself a little bemused at the sentiment, not sure where that fit into the wonderful things that were being done to him, if anything, he'd have said Thaddeus was remarkable and he was very lucky to be here and be treated so wonderfully. Alfarinn reached up a hand to Thaddeus's cheek and returned the affection he was given, kissing his companion gently at first and then more firmly allowing the desire that had been steadily growing with each ministration of those warm and talented lips show through with the use of his own.
[ Really? For letting you kiss me? I assure you I will gladly be remarkable any time you'd like if you plan on keeping that up. ]
He smiled and kissed along Thaddeus's jaw and made his way past his companion's neck, skimming over it only slightly with no more than a teasing brush of lips against skin and moving on to his collar bone instead. Alfarinn made his way lower, taking advantage of their sideways position to move his mouth along Thaddeus's side, feeling and caressing each rib with slow careful attention. He moved a little lower and continued working his way inward kissing along Thaddeus's abdomen, running his cheek across it in a brief nuzzle before planting a kiss in the hollow of each hip before sliding his lips inward.
He then pulled away and moved back upwards, pressing his lover tightly against him and coming back to pay attention to the earlier abandoned neck, this he kissed firmly, pushing against Thaddeus with his entire length, grazing his fangs across delicate skin in a promise of his own.
Eventually he moved back to Thaddeus's lips with a smile. Looking down he sent.
[You're quite remarkable as well.]
He leaned back down to his companion's neck, more gently this time, planning on making good on those earlier gestures when a knock on the door broke through their privacy. Alfarinn leaned his head against Thaddeus's shoulder with a sigh.
[ You have -got- to be kidding me!]
Staying still for another moment, he eventually pulled away and looked at his companion with weary resignation.
"I suppose you'll be wanting to answer that."
He knew that Thaddeus would and with good reason, much as it would be nice to ignore the noise and hope it went away, Alfarinn knew that this could be important. Thaddeus could be needed, in fact it was quite possible that either or both of them were needed and that was enough to make him pull back and stand up,holding out a hand to his companion.
"I guess we should go be friendly."
"Hmmm, it would seem I am surrounded."
Thaddeus's hand found his hair and there was a sense of rightness about the moment, everything was as it should be, they were together, content, enjoying each other, his arms around his lover and Thaddeus's hand was in his hair, Alfarinn sighed happily.
He looked on as his companion took his hand and smiled at the gentle kiss to each finger, his eyes widened at the implied promise as Thaddeus brought his finger into his mouth, he could easily imagine those soft lips and cunning tongue elsewhere as well and sighed in anticipation. Thaddeus continued his exploration of him and Alfarinn found that more sighs escaped him, making him smile inwardly at the thought of being played like a fiddle, in the best possible of ways, Thaddeus evoking the most interesting sounds from him. He was content for the moment to simply hold onto his companion and feel the sensations of Thaddeus's attention, arching into each kiss, lick or touch.
Alfarinn found himself a little bemused at the sentiment, not sure where that fit into the wonderful things that were being done to him, if anything, he'd have said Thaddeus was remarkable and he was very lucky to be here and be treated so wonderfully. Alfarinn reached up a hand to Thaddeus's cheek and returned the affection he was given, kissing his companion gently at first and then more firmly allowing the desire that had been steadily growing with each ministration of those warm and talented lips show through with the use of his own.
[ Really? For letting you kiss me? I assure you I will gladly be remarkable any time you'd like if you plan on keeping that up. ]
He smiled and kissed along Thaddeus's jaw and made his way past his companion's neck, skimming over it only slightly with no more than a teasing brush of lips against skin and moving on to his collar bone instead. Alfarinn made his way lower, taking advantage of their sideways position to move his mouth along Thaddeus's side, feeling and caressing each rib with slow careful attention. He moved a little lower and continued working his way inward kissing along Thaddeus's abdomen, running his cheek across it in a brief nuzzle before planting a kiss in the hollow of each hip before sliding his lips inward.
He then pulled away and moved back upwards, pressing his lover tightly against him and coming back to pay attention to the earlier abandoned neck, this he kissed firmly, pushing against Thaddeus with his entire length, grazing his fangs across delicate skin in a promise of his own.
Eventually he moved back to Thaddeus's lips with a smile. Looking down he sent.
[You're quite remarkable as well.]
He leaned back down to his companion's neck, more gently this time, planning on making good on those earlier gestures when a knock on the door broke through their privacy. Alfarinn leaned his head against Thaddeus's shoulder with a sigh.
[ You have -got- to be kidding me!]
Staying still for another moment, he eventually pulled away and looked at his companion with weary resignation.
"I suppose you'll be wanting to answer that."
He knew that Thaddeus would and with good reason, much as it would be nice to ignore the noise and hope it went away, Alfarinn knew that this could be important. Thaddeus could be needed, in fact it was quite possible that either or both of them were needed and that was enough to make him pull back and stand up,holding out a hand to his companion.
"I guess we should go be friendly."
Thaddeus Grey
18 years ago
The smile at Alfarinn's comment turned to a gasp as the other man's lips grazed his neck, making him shiver though the contact was brief. He tried to come up with some reasonable explanation to clear up the misunderstanding, though as Alfarinn moved along his collarbone coherent thought became increasing difficult.
[Oh...I have -every- intention of kissing you as often as I possibly can.]
He started a little when Alfarinn reached a particularly sensitive spot on his ribs, though the touch was certainly more pleasurable than anything else. He wondered vaguely what his occasionally mischievous lover would make of him being just a very little bit ticklish. His eyes closed in pleasure as Alfarinn continued his attentions. Shivering at those arousing touches, he moved to wind his hands once again in Alfarinn's hair when his lover suddenly pulled away. He opened his eyes, surprised, but then he found himself fully pressed against Alfarinn and could only moan in pleasure as he felt lips and tongue and fangs along his skin. His hand at last found long blonde hair as he pulled closer, wrapping one leg over Alfarinn's hip, and returned the kiss with passion.
He smiled softly at the compliment, blushing but unembarrassed, and tilted his head to one side as Alfarinn moved toward him again.
At the loud noise he froze, half of him wishing he could attribute the sound to anything other than a knock on his door. Realizing this was more than a little foolish and that his companion was similarly resigned, he sighed and untangled his hand from Alfarinn's hair and shoved himself up on one elbow.
[What -else- could possibly happen tonight?]
He shook his head and took the offered hand, knowing that Alfarinn understood but once more feeling guilty for having to, yet again, put his companion in a position to be understanding and patient.
"I am feeling less than friendly at the moment. Let us see what is wanted of us."Â?
There was almost no chance this was a social call; those who lived in the Manor learned quickly that Thaddeus preferred to invite his guests, excepting Mai who was, of course, welcome to visit any time. He supposed it was possible that it was one of the newer people in the Manor, but even that did not seem likely.
He walked to the bathroom and came out with two matching robes, as there was little chance of Alfarinn's broader shoulders fitting into one of his dressing gowns, and handed one to his companion before shrugging the second one on. Tying the belt around his waist as he walked, he led Alfarinn out of the bedroom and down the staircase.
"Most likely I am simply wanted for some information, or to sense something perhaps, as there is little I would accomplish on a more complicated task until nightfall."Â?
He sincerely hoped he could take care of what was needed and return to prior activities as soon as possible, in any case, though naturally he would be polite and dutiful as always. Even so, he was glad Alfarinn joined him; he could, perhaps, hope for some politeness in return when his visitor saw that he already had company.
He walked to the door and gave Alfarinn one last apologetic smile before unlocking it.
Then he decided a few more seconds would hardly make a difference, and turned to kiss Alfarinn firmly on the mouth. He stepped back, meeting his eyes for a moment, then nodded his head and turned to open the door, his hand entwined in Alfarinn's.
[Ah. This is what else can happen.]
"Sorin. Good morning."Â?
A myriad of emotions flickered through him before he settled on surprise and some amount of worry. Not only was this was not exactly how he had envisioned telling Sorin about him and Alfarinn, but he was reasonably sure that this must be the last person his companion wanted to see. In fact, he had wanted to wait until after their current matters reached a resolution to speak to the Elder, as he could then have an opportunity to speak to Sorin alone. He had hoped his Elder could vent any displeasure he might have before ever seeing Alfarinn. Instead, he stood between two people who he cared about, granted in vastly different ways, and who disliked each other a great deal.
He kept his smile firmly in place, doing his best to remember his manners in spite of his nerves. This was bound to happen at some point, after all, though perhaps not like this. Yet another Elder who was, as Alfarinn might say, 'getting the short version.' He nodded to Alfarinn, giving him what he hoped was a reassuring smile before turning back to Sorin.
"I understand you are already acquainted with Alfarinn. What can I do for you?"Â?
He would likely need to invite the Elder in, feeling he owed Sorin at least that much courtesy. At the moment, though, it was Alfarinn who was owed, and so he thought it best to try to avoid an invitation if there were any way around it.
[Oh...I have -every- intention of kissing you as often as I possibly can.]
He started a little when Alfarinn reached a particularly sensitive spot on his ribs, though the touch was certainly more pleasurable than anything else. He wondered vaguely what his occasionally mischievous lover would make of him being just a very little bit ticklish. His eyes closed in pleasure as Alfarinn continued his attentions. Shivering at those arousing touches, he moved to wind his hands once again in Alfarinn's hair when his lover suddenly pulled away. He opened his eyes, surprised, but then he found himself fully pressed against Alfarinn and could only moan in pleasure as he felt lips and tongue and fangs along his skin. His hand at last found long blonde hair as he pulled closer, wrapping one leg over Alfarinn's hip, and returned the kiss with passion.
He smiled softly at the compliment, blushing but unembarrassed, and tilted his head to one side as Alfarinn moved toward him again.
At the loud noise he froze, half of him wishing he could attribute the sound to anything other than a knock on his door. Realizing this was more than a little foolish and that his companion was similarly resigned, he sighed and untangled his hand from Alfarinn's hair and shoved himself up on one elbow.
[What -else- could possibly happen tonight?]
He shook his head and took the offered hand, knowing that Alfarinn understood but once more feeling guilty for having to, yet again, put his companion in a position to be understanding and patient.
"I am feeling less than friendly at the moment. Let us see what is wanted of us."Â?
There was almost no chance this was a social call; those who lived in the Manor learned quickly that Thaddeus preferred to invite his guests, excepting Mai who was, of course, welcome to visit any time. He supposed it was possible that it was one of the newer people in the Manor, but even that did not seem likely.
He walked to the bathroom and came out with two matching robes, as there was little chance of Alfarinn's broader shoulders fitting into one of his dressing gowns, and handed one to his companion before shrugging the second one on. Tying the belt around his waist as he walked, he led Alfarinn out of the bedroom and down the staircase.
"Most likely I am simply wanted for some information, or to sense something perhaps, as there is little I would accomplish on a more complicated task until nightfall."Â?
He sincerely hoped he could take care of what was needed and return to prior activities as soon as possible, in any case, though naturally he would be polite and dutiful as always. Even so, he was glad Alfarinn joined him; he could, perhaps, hope for some politeness in return when his visitor saw that he already had company.
He walked to the door and gave Alfarinn one last apologetic smile before unlocking it.
Then he decided a few more seconds would hardly make a difference, and turned to kiss Alfarinn firmly on the mouth. He stepped back, meeting his eyes for a moment, then nodded his head and turned to open the door, his hand entwined in Alfarinn's.
[Ah. This is what else can happen.]
"Sorin. Good morning."Â?
A myriad of emotions flickered through him before he settled on surprise and some amount of worry. Not only was this was not exactly how he had envisioned telling Sorin about him and Alfarinn, but he was reasonably sure that this must be the last person his companion wanted to see. In fact, he had wanted to wait until after their current matters reached a resolution to speak to the Elder, as he could then have an opportunity to speak to Sorin alone. He had hoped his Elder could vent any displeasure he might have before ever seeing Alfarinn. Instead, he stood between two people who he cared about, granted in vastly different ways, and who disliked each other a great deal.
He kept his smile firmly in place, doing his best to remember his manners in spite of his nerves. This was bound to happen at some point, after all, though perhaps not like this. Yet another Elder who was, as Alfarinn might say, 'getting the short version.' He nodded to Alfarinn, giving him what he hoped was a reassuring smile before turning back to Sorin.
"I understand you are already acquainted with Alfarinn. What can I do for you?"Â?
He would likely need to invite the Elder in, feeling he owed Sorin at least that much courtesy. At the moment, though, it was Alfarinn who was owed, and so he thought it best to try to avoid an invitation if there were any way around it.
Sorin
18 years ago
Sorin found the impassive expression that he had originally displayed when Thaddeus opened the door continued to remain while he listened to Thaddeus's short introduction. He'd have to admit on some level to his inner self that this had very little to do with his acting abilities, no, this time it was more a matter of total and complete shock.
He blinked once as if it would help make things clearer. How did this happen? Did he not explain that Evenhet had been those most likely responsible for killing Emma? Yet, here Thaddeus stood with the very man that had been there not long before she died. What had Alfarinn said to make himself believed over Sorin whom Thaddeus had known and trusted for years? It was just like the obnoxious blonde to have -that- go so easily for him as well.
"No, Thaddeus, I could not have possibly murdered her. What does it matter that I'm in a rival clan, wanted the artifact that she was looking for and was in the area not long before she died?"
Sorin nearly growled aloud as the words formed high pitched and mocking in his head, followed by an image of Thaddeus nodding agreeably and walking into those long arms, laying his head on Alfarinn's chest, his eyes closed in a moment of peace and security. Something he -should- have been seeking from Sorin, his clan mate and mentor but, no, everything always just fell into place for Alfarinn. He wasn't an elder so he makes a new clan with his redheaded bitch of a sister and the council let him do it. LET HIM DO IT! Just like that! Never mind it had never happened before, never mind that he had been just under Emma anyway, that wasn't good enough. Though in all honesty he knew better, Alfarinn didn't care for the status or the power, he had truly believed in his ideals and that was the part that really made him sick. If he'd had known it was a simple matter of coming up with some bleeding heart beliefs and saying he could no longer stay in good conscience, hell, he might have tried that ages ago. Who knew perhaps Emma would still be alive.
Emma.. Sorin had raged long and hard after the decision had been made to let Evenhet exist but Emma would hear none of it. He looked at the couple standing there with their hands clasped together, hair disheveled, looking thoroughly kissed, in matching bathrobes and he could see Emma clearly in his mind, her eyes sparkling with happiness, a faint sweet smile on her face, approving of the both of them in a way she'd have never approved of him.
He turned stiffly to Thaddeus and answered his question before regarding Alfarinn with a cold glare.
"I came to speak with you about -clan- business." Sorin looked at Thaddeus and heaved a weary sigh. "You've not been here often lately and I when I heard you were at the Manor, I thought I might catch you before you left again. I was not aware that you had....company." The last word dripped with as much disdain as he could manage in two syllables.
"Might I speak with you for a moment outside?"
He blinked once as if it would help make things clearer. How did this happen? Did he not explain that Evenhet had been those most likely responsible for killing Emma? Yet, here Thaddeus stood with the very man that had been there not long before she died. What had Alfarinn said to make himself believed over Sorin whom Thaddeus had known and trusted for years? It was just like the obnoxious blonde to have -that- go so easily for him as well.
"No, Thaddeus, I could not have possibly murdered her. What does it matter that I'm in a rival clan, wanted the artifact that she was looking for and was in the area not long before she died?"
Sorin nearly growled aloud as the words formed high pitched and mocking in his head, followed by an image of Thaddeus nodding agreeably and walking into those long arms, laying his head on Alfarinn's chest, his eyes closed in a moment of peace and security. Something he -should- have been seeking from Sorin, his clan mate and mentor but, no, everything always just fell into place for Alfarinn. He wasn't an elder so he makes a new clan with his redheaded bitch of a sister and the council let him do it. LET HIM DO IT! Just like that! Never mind it had never happened before, never mind that he had been just under Emma anyway, that wasn't good enough. Though in all honesty he knew better, Alfarinn didn't care for the status or the power, he had truly believed in his ideals and that was the part that really made him sick. If he'd had known it was a simple matter of coming up with some bleeding heart beliefs and saying he could no longer stay in good conscience, hell, he might have tried that ages ago. Who knew perhaps Emma would still be alive.
Emma.. Sorin had raged long and hard after the decision had been made to let Evenhet exist but Emma would hear none of it. He looked at the couple standing there with their hands clasped together, hair disheveled, looking thoroughly kissed, in matching bathrobes and he could see Emma clearly in his mind, her eyes sparkling with happiness, a faint sweet smile on her face, approving of the both of them in a way she'd have never approved of him.
He turned stiffly to Thaddeus and answered his question before regarding Alfarinn with a cold glare.
"I came to speak with you about -clan- business." Sorin looked at Thaddeus and heaved a weary sigh. "You've not been here often lately and I when I heard you were at the Manor, I thought I might catch you before you left again. I was not aware that you had....company." The last word dripped with as much disdain as he could manage in two syllables.
"Might I speak with you for a moment outside?"
Alfarinn
18 years ago
Alfarinn took the bathrobe with a smile of gratitude and pulled it on. Following Thaddeus down the stairs, he hoped it was something as quick and simple as some information or something to sense. He still wasn't happy about being interrupted, not after the hard night they had experienced. Certainly they were due a break, especially Thaddeus who had been so focused and so calm through all this, asking more from him right now seemed so callous and unfair to Alfarinn.
He didn't react at first when Thaddeus opened the door, being still somewhat in shock from the sudden kiss. It took a moment for his mental words to register and for him to focus on the person standing in the hall.
[Oh...him.]
Alfarinn sighed in aggrevation, no doubt Sorin knew he was here and had simply come to cause problems but, no, the surprise and shock that he sensed from the man told him otherwise, whether Sorin knew Thaddeus was in here with someone remained to be seen but it was obvious that this was not what he expected to see. Still some people were trouble all the time, planned or not and the man once named Nero was one of those people.
There was Thaddeus to think about, his companion's discomfort managed to make its way through his own annoyance at the situation and he looked over at him. For Thaddeus he could behave, for his sake and his alone, he could be civil to this waste of space. As he had reflected earlier, it had been a long night and Thaddeus didn't need to deal with juvenile behavior between two men centuries old enough to know better and the hurt feelings that any fight between them was likely to cause.
So with a great deal more politeness than he felt, he said
"Yes, we've met."Alfarinn nodded his head in greeting. "Sorin."
It was pretty much ignored and he listened with growing anger as the man mentioned Thaddeus's absence in order to cause his companion to feel guilty. This was something that was uncalled for, Alfarinn felt silent sympathy for his lover and wished Sorin would simply go away.
He didn't react at first when Thaddeus opened the door, being still somewhat in shock from the sudden kiss. It took a moment for his mental words to register and for him to focus on the person standing in the hall.
[Oh...him.]
Alfarinn sighed in aggrevation, no doubt Sorin knew he was here and had simply come to cause problems but, no, the surprise and shock that he sensed from the man told him otherwise, whether Sorin knew Thaddeus was in here with someone remained to be seen but it was obvious that this was not what he expected to see. Still some people were trouble all the time, planned or not and the man once named Nero was one of those people.
There was Thaddeus to think about, his companion's discomfort managed to make its way through his own annoyance at the situation and he looked over at him. For Thaddeus he could behave, for his sake and his alone, he could be civil to this waste of space. As he had reflected earlier, it had been a long night and Thaddeus didn't need to deal with juvenile behavior between two men centuries old enough to know better and the hurt feelings that any fight between them was likely to cause.
So with a great deal more politeness than he felt, he said
"Yes, we've met."Alfarinn nodded his head in greeting. "Sorin."
It was pretty much ignored and he listened with growing anger as the man mentioned Thaddeus's absence in order to cause his companion to feel guilty. This was something that was uncalled for, Alfarinn felt silent sympathy for his lover and wished Sorin would simply go away.
Thaddeus Grey
18 years ago
Hmm, this is going well.
It was all Thaddeus could do not to rake his hands through his hair. Yes, the dislike between these two was nearly tangible, though Alfarinn spoke with dignified class, a fact he was more than grateful for. Sorin was less...in check, though Thaddeus reasoned that the Elder had less time to become acquainted with the idea and had found out in a rather surprising way.
Still, Sorin had stated his purpose quickly, and it was reasonable enough. He sighed internally, knowing how this must look. Asking for a leave of absence only to be found in the Manor in the company of a vampire Sorin did not much care for. Sorin probably did not believe a word of his earlier mentions of personal business and believed Thaddeus was off gallivanting around while there was work to be done. And there would be no explaining himself, not now, even though he had a perfectly legitimate reason for his absence. Sorin had rather effectively reminded Thaddeus of exactly his place in Anantya, and while he was more than proud to be a Nightsman, it stung his pride a little to be implicitly rebuked in front of the man he loved.
And what to do now? Sorin wanted him outside. He had as good as promised his companion that he would not be without the company of either Alfarinn or Mai while in the Manor.
This was not going to turn out well. While he could sense that Alfarinn was sympathetic through the bond and likely understood that Thaddeus was not in a position to argue the point, the least he could do was to keep his word.
He nodded his head as his smile faded into seriousness.
Certainly I can speak to you. If you would allow me a moment to get a bit more...he gestured down at his bathrobe...decent. He took a step back and gestured into the foyer. Won't you come in?
[I realize I am...asking quite a bit from you. I think it is safe to say that this is not a situation any of us want to be in, but I don't think there is anything else I can do.
With any luck Sorin will be comfortable enough in my quarters to talk.]
It was all Thaddeus could do not to rake his hands through his hair. Yes, the dislike between these two was nearly tangible, though Alfarinn spoke with dignified class, a fact he was more than grateful for. Sorin was less...in check, though Thaddeus reasoned that the Elder had less time to become acquainted with the idea and had found out in a rather surprising way.
Still, Sorin had stated his purpose quickly, and it was reasonable enough. He sighed internally, knowing how this must look. Asking for a leave of absence only to be found in the Manor in the company of a vampire Sorin did not much care for. Sorin probably did not believe a word of his earlier mentions of personal business and believed Thaddeus was off gallivanting around while there was work to be done. And there would be no explaining himself, not now, even though he had a perfectly legitimate reason for his absence. Sorin had rather effectively reminded Thaddeus of exactly his place in Anantya, and while he was more than proud to be a Nightsman, it stung his pride a little to be implicitly rebuked in front of the man he loved.
And what to do now? Sorin wanted him outside. He had as good as promised his companion that he would not be without the company of either Alfarinn or Mai while in the Manor.
This was not going to turn out well. While he could sense that Alfarinn was sympathetic through the bond and likely understood that Thaddeus was not in a position to argue the point, the least he could do was to keep his word.
He nodded his head as his smile faded into seriousness.
Certainly I can speak to you. If you would allow me a moment to get a bit more...he gestured down at his bathrobe...decent. He took a step back and gestured into the foyer. Won't you come in?
[I realize I am...asking quite a bit from you. I think it is safe to say that this is not a situation any of us want to be in, but I don't think there is anything else I can do.
With any luck Sorin will be comfortable enough in my quarters to talk.]
Sorin
18 years ago
Sorin was over the initial shock and anger and now it remained to be seen how he was going to play this out. He had always been kind to Thaddeus, understanding even and to show a different side now would be a waste of those efforts. With Alfarinn he never needed to bother, the man and his sister's unique abilities made them a nuisance to be around.
He nodded politely to Thaddeus and stepped inside.
"Well, It has certainly been a long time, Alfarinn, and how is your sister? Is she still interested in that Persian fellow?"
He smiled benignly and turned back to Thaddeus.
"I shall wait here then."
He nodded politely to Thaddeus and stepped inside.
"Well, It has certainly been a long time, Alfarinn, and how is your sister? Is she still interested in that Persian fellow?"
He smiled benignly and turned back to Thaddeus.
"I shall wait here then."
Alfarinn
18 years ago
Alfarinn gave Thaddeus's hand a gentle squeeze of reassurance, while waging his own inner war. He knew Sorin was likely guilty of ordering Emma's murder, the information that Morrigan provided made that almost a certainty. Now the man was aware that Thaddeus was working -with- him instead of suspecting him. Sorin would have no idea how close they were to finding out the truth but he had to be worried about now.
How could he possibly let Thaddeus be alone with this man and yet not explain to Thaddeus what he knew, the very thing his companion would never believe? If he explained what Morrigan had told him then Thaddeus would possibly behave differently around Sorin which would tip the man off. It was not that he believed Thaddeus incapable of acting and doing it well but Sorin was adept at reading people when he chose to be and would likely pick up on the lack of trust that he had always enjoyed from Thaddeus.
It couldn't be explained at this moment anyway, that was something that would take time. Alfarin sighed inwardly. Only Sorin could cause so much trouble by simply existing.
[I don't think Sorin will want to speak around me, Thaddeus. Would you like me to wait upstairs?]
He'd do what he had to and if they were still in the rooms then at least he'd be nearby to help if it came to it but if Sorin insisted they go elsewhere then Alfarinn would have no idea where they were.
"No, I believe she has been quite done with him for some time now. Megan is hardly one to be entertained overly long by one mere man."
Alfarinn thought personally that his sister was not done with the man but she had yet to kill him, at least not to his knowledge, so that was something.
How could he possibly let Thaddeus be alone with this man and yet not explain to Thaddeus what he knew, the very thing his companion would never believe? If he explained what Morrigan had told him then Thaddeus would possibly behave differently around Sorin which would tip the man off. It was not that he believed Thaddeus incapable of acting and doing it well but Sorin was adept at reading people when he chose to be and would likely pick up on the lack of trust that he had always enjoyed from Thaddeus.
It couldn't be explained at this moment anyway, that was something that would take time. Alfarin sighed inwardly. Only Sorin could cause so much trouble by simply existing.
[I don't think Sorin will want to speak around me, Thaddeus. Would you like me to wait upstairs?]
He'd do what he had to and if they were still in the rooms then at least he'd be nearby to help if it came to it but if Sorin insisted they go elsewhere then Alfarinn would have no idea where they were.
"No, I believe she has been quite done with him for some time now. Megan is hardly one to be entertained overly long by one mere man."
Alfarinn thought personally that his sister was not done with the man but she had yet to kill him, at least not to his knowledge, so that was something.
Thaddeus Grey
18 years ago
Thaddeus closed and locked the door behind Sorin and turned to face his two guests. Alfarinn's offer was as generous and patient as the man himself, and as much as he disliked making his companion wait yet again, it would be best, he felt, if these two men spent as little time as possible in the same room. Both remained civil for the moment, but, arrogant as it probably was, Thaddeus could not help but think their behavior was for his sake.
[I will not keep you waiting much longer.]
Please, make yourself comfortable. He pulled open the curtain and gestured to one of the chairs before passing through himself. I will return in just a moment.
He continued through the office to the stairs, leading Alfarinn by the hand. Walking to one of his wardrobes, he opened the door to find something suitable and caught his reflection in the inside mirror. Taking in his appearance, he might have found the whole thing perversely amusing if not for the awkwardness of the situation. With his rumpled hair and the slight flush to his cheeks, there was likely little question of what they had been doing when Sorin came to call. He shook his head, smiling in spite of himself, and found a pair of black slacks and a gray button down.
[Usually the Manor is such a peaceful place.]
He dressed quickly, hanging up his robe in the bathroom when he was done. He turned to Alfarinn with a mix of guilt and frustration and once again delayed desire. He would have liked to kiss him just once more before returning to Sorin, but reasoned that he would only be making this harder on both of them if he did. Instead he reached up and touched Alfarinn gently on the cheek. Even that gesture might have been his undoing; he could not help but think of just what he would be doing once his talk with Sorin was finished.
Thank you for understanding.
Soon enough, he reflected, they would be living in a place of their own. After this night, the thought of leaving the Manor was somewhat easier to face, though he felt immediately guilty as soon as the thought crossed his mind. Had he not been here tonight, Chryseis may not have been found as quickly as she was, not to mention the important information they had gained, and simply the time visiting with his clansmen. He reminded himself that there was more duty to be done and now was not the time to be reflective.
[I will not keep you waiting much longer.]
Please, make yourself comfortable. He pulled open the curtain and gestured to one of the chairs before passing through himself. I will return in just a moment.
He continued through the office to the stairs, leading Alfarinn by the hand. Walking to one of his wardrobes, he opened the door to find something suitable and caught his reflection in the inside mirror. Taking in his appearance, he might have found the whole thing perversely amusing if not for the awkwardness of the situation. With his rumpled hair and the slight flush to his cheeks, there was likely little question of what they had been doing when Sorin came to call. He shook his head, smiling in spite of himself, and found a pair of black slacks and a gray button down.
[Usually the Manor is such a peaceful place.]
He dressed quickly, hanging up his robe in the bathroom when he was done. He turned to Alfarinn with a mix of guilt and frustration and once again delayed desire. He would have liked to kiss him just once more before returning to Sorin, but reasoned that he would only be making this harder on both of them if he did. Instead he reached up and touched Alfarinn gently on the cheek. Even that gesture might have been his undoing; he could not help but think of just what he would be doing once his talk with Sorin was finished.
Thank you for understanding.
Soon enough, he reflected, they would be living in a place of their own. After this night, the thought of leaving the Manor was somewhat easier to face, though he felt immediately guilty as soon as the thought crossed his mind. Had he not been here tonight, Chryseis may not have been found as quickly as she was, not to mention the important information they had gained, and simply the time visiting with his clansmen. He reminded himself that there was more duty to be done and now was not the time to be reflective.
Alfarinn
18 years ago
Alfarinn walked up the stairs being led by Thaddeus still wondering what he was going to do with this situation and whether there was anything for him to do but wait. He watched Thaddeus dress and smiled at the bit of desire that tugged at him even through his worry.
[I know, Thaddeus, don't concern yourself over me. I'll be patient.]
He grinned at the statement about the Manor and wondered how peaceful things normally were. The problem with a clan mate could have happened any time. The situation with Simon and their own business was all connected to their current situation. Sorin's appearance would not have normally caused a stir.
[Perhaps it is because you have a trouble maker with you?]
Alfarinn leaned into the hand that caressed his cheek, holding on to the wrist before Thaddeus pulled it away. Respecting the restraint that his companion showed, he resisted the urge to pull Thaddeus forward and kiss him soundly before letting him go back down the stairs. Instead, He planted a kiss gently on the inside of his lover's wrist and pulled him into his arms, telling himself it was just for a moment.
He would have to tell Thaddeus, and soon, that the man downstairs was not what he appeared but he had hoped that he wouldn't have to add more disturbing information to this night than had already been given.
"I will be right here...if you need me for anything."
[I know, Thaddeus, don't concern yourself over me. I'll be patient.]
He grinned at the statement about the Manor and wondered how peaceful things normally were. The problem with a clan mate could have happened any time. The situation with Simon and their own business was all connected to their current situation. Sorin's appearance would not have normally caused a stir.
[Perhaps it is because you have a trouble maker with you?]
Alfarinn leaned into the hand that caressed his cheek, holding on to the wrist before Thaddeus pulled it away. Respecting the restraint that his companion showed, he resisted the urge to pull Thaddeus forward and kiss him soundly before letting him go back down the stairs. Instead, He planted a kiss gently on the inside of his lover's wrist and pulled him into his arms, telling himself it was just for a moment.
He would have to tell Thaddeus, and soon, that the man downstairs was not what he appeared but he had hoped that he wouldn't have to add more disturbing information to this night than had already been given.
"I will be right here...if you need me for anything."
Thaddeus Grey
18 years ago
Thaddeus shook his head with a smile and wrapped one arm around Alfarinn's waist, resting the other on the other man's shoulder.
[You bring me such peace Alfarinn; it is everything else that is chaotic tonight.]
Reluctantly, he pulled away and walked to the door, trying not to wish for just one more second alone with Alfarinn. He reasoned that he would be back soon enough, sooner if he managed to get a move on. Unfortunately his mind was not entirely listening to reason right now.
"Thank you. And...I do. Need you."Â?
He opened the door and stepped out, walking down the spiral staircase to his study. On the short walk he did his best to redirect his mind to his work rather than linger on Alfarinn upstairs, but his efforts were of little use. Even so, when he reached the bottom of the steps and approached Sorin, his expression was hopefully schooled to professionalism.
Alfarinn is waiting upstairs; I had thought we would be more comfortable speaking here.
He wondered what it was Sorin might want of him that was urgent enough to come to his door. After all, he had left his contact information and could be reached via phone at any hour. Perhaps this was something grave enough to only be spoken of in person. It would do no good to get ahead of himself, though, and he waited patiently for Sorin to explain.
[You bring me such peace Alfarinn; it is everything else that is chaotic tonight.]
Reluctantly, he pulled away and walked to the door, trying not to wish for just one more second alone with Alfarinn. He reasoned that he would be back soon enough, sooner if he managed to get a move on. Unfortunately his mind was not entirely listening to reason right now.
"Thank you. And...I do. Need you."Â?
He opened the door and stepped out, walking down the spiral staircase to his study. On the short walk he did his best to redirect his mind to his work rather than linger on Alfarinn upstairs, but his efforts were of little use. Even so, when he reached the bottom of the steps and approached Sorin, his expression was hopefully schooled to professionalism.
Alfarinn is waiting upstairs; I had thought we would be more comfortable speaking here.
He wondered what it was Sorin might want of him that was urgent enough to come to his door. After all, he had left his contact information and could be reached via phone at any hour. Perhaps this was something grave enough to only be spoken of in person. It would do no good to get ahead of himself, though, and he waited patiently for Sorin to explain.
Alfarinn
18 years ago
Alfarinn smiled at the sentiment and watched Thaddeus head out of the room. It seemed that this statement was true and it made him feel more loved than his companion could probably guess at. It was certainly mutual. He moved to the bathroom and took off the robe, there was no sense in going back downstairs unless Thaddeus called him. If it were an emergency then Sorin would just have to endure his nakedness though he doubted that would be his biggest problem if he tried to harm Thaddeus, he'd have to get around Alfarinn choking the life out of him first.
Heading back to the bed, he layed down on his back and clasped his hands behind his head, resigned to wait patiently.
"He should really put a mural on the ceiling of this thing in order to have something to look at."
Thaddeus no doubt spent many nights staring up at it also, and that was somehow a comforting thought. Perhaps in their new place he should see about having someone paint the ceiling, knowing his companion's habit of not sleeping well. Alfarinn chuckled at the odd things he used to keep his mind busy and continued to ponder what kind of decorations they would end up deciding on. His current place was a model home for modern industrial furniture and from the look of Thaddeus's chambers it was obvious that his companion preferred something more traditional. Perhaps they could come to a comfortable compromise.
His mind wandered back to Sorin and Thaddeus of its own accord and he wondered darkly just what kind of things the man might be telling his partner about him. He'd pay close attention for any signs of distress and heaven help Sorin if he sensed them.
Heading back to the bed, he layed down on his back and clasped his hands behind his head, resigned to wait patiently.
"He should really put a mural on the ceiling of this thing in order to have something to look at."
Thaddeus no doubt spent many nights staring up at it also, and that was somehow a comforting thought. Perhaps in their new place he should see about having someone paint the ceiling, knowing his companion's habit of not sleeping well. Alfarinn chuckled at the odd things he used to keep his mind busy and continued to ponder what kind of decorations they would end up deciding on. His current place was a model home for modern industrial furniture and from the look of Thaddeus's chambers it was obvious that his companion preferred something more traditional. Perhaps they could come to a comfortable compromise.
His mind wandered back to Sorin and Thaddeus of its own accord and he wondered darkly just what kind of things the man might be telling his partner about him. He'd pay close attention for any signs of distress and heaven help Sorin if he sensed them.
Sorin
18 years ago
Sorin looked up and remembered to smile at Thaddeus as he entered.
"Hmm, then I suppose we should not keep your company waiting."
Sorin refused to call him a friend or partner or whatever other term they might be applying to themselves. He still wondered at how this happened but there was no use trying to figure it out. Damn the luck of that blasted Norse man, he should have known this would somehow turn out well for him.
Now he wondered just how much Thaddeus knew. If he no longer suspected Evenhet and was once more back at the Manor, and with Alfarinn in tow no less, that made him curious and uneasy. He could not get out of his mind the image of the butler putting away the lineage books and wondered just what they had hoped to find in there that they might not have already known.
It looked like he had no choice but to get rid of the tall blonde nuisance and unfortunately his shorter companion would need to go as well. Such a waste, if Thaddeus had trusted him with information about how his search was going then perhaps he'd have been spared, now that wasn't safe.
Remembering the gloves in his pocket, Sorin smiled inwardly. He'd once given a scarf to a large man and had him track down the woman he wanted killed. Wouldn't it be ironic if Thaddeus were killed by the very man who had taken the life of his creator. He supposed in a way he would be doing the boy a service... after all at least he would have found the man he had been looking for.
"I had some matter for a Nightsman to look into and came to inquire if you'd be available. There are so few that I can count on with a similar degree of talent and thoroughness." He smiled at Thaddeus and waved a hand in dismissal.
"It is no so important as all that. I will have someone else look into it. I am sure you are still busy with your...personal matter."
He sighed and turned a serious and concerned face to his young companion.
"Thaddeus, I must warn you against this man... in good conscience, I feel that I cannot simply let you be led astray by his ways. I do understand that he is." Sorin swallowed and willed himself to say the rest while fighting the urge to grit his teeth. "quite charming. More than one has been taken in by that personable nature of his but he was once a nightsman just like yourself and is very capable...one of the best, I fear he might be playing you."
He swallowed the bitter taste in his mouth that was left over from voicing anything that remotely came as a compliment to the Evenhet.
" I know things about him and his ways that make me very uneasy. He is a spy first and foremost and that must be remembered. During the Revolutionary War, for instance, his information caused several difficult situations for the British. We might have succeeded had he and his sister not involved themselves on the other side. Her contacts in France were helpful and Alfarinn personally got involved here. I am not saying they were a deciding factor by any means." Sorin snorted at the thought. "But they played active roles, far more active than the humans around them realized."
He paused and sighed. "You had family in the war, didn't you?"
"Hmm, then I suppose we should not keep your company waiting."
Sorin refused to call him a friend or partner or whatever other term they might be applying to themselves. He still wondered at how this happened but there was no use trying to figure it out. Damn the luck of that blasted Norse man, he should have known this would somehow turn out well for him.
Now he wondered just how much Thaddeus knew. If he no longer suspected Evenhet and was once more back at the Manor, and with Alfarinn in tow no less, that made him curious and uneasy. He could not get out of his mind the image of the butler putting away the lineage books and wondered just what they had hoped to find in there that they might not have already known.
It looked like he had no choice but to get rid of the tall blonde nuisance and unfortunately his shorter companion would need to go as well. Such a waste, if Thaddeus had trusted him with information about how his search was going then perhaps he'd have been spared, now that wasn't safe.
Remembering the gloves in his pocket, Sorin smiled inwardly. He'd once given a scarf to a large man and had him track down the woman he wanted killed. Wouldn't it be ironic if Thaddeus were killed by the very man who had taken the life of his creator. He supposed in a way he would be doing the boy a service... after all at least he would have found the man he had been looking for.
"I had some matter for a Nightsman to look into and came to inquire if you'd be available. There are so few that I can count on with a similar degree of talent and thoroughness." He smiled at Thaddeus and waved a hand in dismissal.
"It is no so important as all that. I will have someone else look into it. I am sure you are still busy with your...personal matter."
He sighed and turned a serious and concerned face to his young companion.
"Thaddeus, I must warn you against this man... in good conscience, I feel that I cannot simply let you be led astray by his ways. I do understand that he is." Sorin swallowed and willed himself to say the rest while fighting the urge to grit his teeth. "quite charming. More than one has been taken in by that personable nature of his but he was once a nightsman just like yourself and is very capable...one of the best, I fear he might be playing you."
He swallowed the bitter taste in his mouth that was left over from voicing anything that remotely came as a compliment to the Evenhet.
" I know things about him and his ways that make me very uneasy. He is a spy first and foremost and that must be remembered. During the Revolutionary War, for instance, his information caused several difficult situations for the British. We might have succeeded had he and his sister not involved themselves on the other side. Her contacts in France were helpful and Alfarinn personally got involved here. I am not saying they were a deciding factor by any means." Sorin snorted at the thought. "But they played active roles, far more active than the humans around them realized."
He paused and sighed. "You had family in the war, didn't you?"
Thaddeus Grey
18 years ago
Thaddeus's curiosity was somewhat piqued at the mention of a matter for him to look into and could not help but be a little surprised when it was quickly dismissed. At least it was not anything so grave as to require his immediate attention, but couldn't Sorin have told him this -before- he had bothered to get dressed? The Elder could have easily stated that he could come back at a better time; it could not have been more obvious that Sorin was interrupting something. He could not, however, stay exasperated with his friend for long. After all, as Sorin pointed out, the Elder had just as much reason to be frustrated. Thaddeus imagined that when Sorin became aware of just how serious his "personal matter"Â? was, he would be more understanding.
He let the comment go and hoped there would be time for explanations later. He would be at Sorin's disposal once again soon enough, he hoped, though he could not be certain of that and so did not make assurances he could not keep.
Very well.
Sorin quickly moved on to what were clearly his true intentions for speaking with Thaddeus alone. He was not particularly surprised; after all, he and Alfarinn had spoken about this very issue. No doubt there was little he could say to reassure his Elder; time would have to tell on that count. He patiently heard his friend out, knowing that Sorin was speaking out of concern for him but aware of the biases in place.
He raised his eyebrow at the question, but answered straightforwardly enough.
Yes, there were Greys in the war.
The question was not a little uncomfortable; of course he kept track of the Grey family, it was only natural for him to take an interest in his human relatives, but he had made every effort to be discreet about it. He was of a different kind now, and showing extensive attachment to his human family seemed in a way ungrateful to him, and apt to make those around him uncomfortable, especially to those vampires old enough to see their human ties fall away into history.
In truth, there had likely been Greys on -both- sides of the war, though those on the colony side were much more distantly related. It was a hard blow to the family; not only had they fought, but some had lost their lives.
He found he was curious about what interest Alfarinn might have taken in the war; no doubt it was in his idealistic nature to take a concern, but to take such a key role in what was largely a human matter was interesting, as were most things about his companion. He wondered if it would be tactless to ask, and decided that conversation could only be awkward what with his own relatives being involved.
He leaned forward on his elbows to address Sorin's other points. In time, he hoped, Sorin would come to accept their relationship, but for now he could only hope the Elder could put aside his worries long enough to give the idea a chance.
I do appreciate your concern, truly I do.
He met Sorin's eyes. He did not smile, as he did not want to come off as patronizing, though the comment about Alfarinn being charming made him grin internally. Alfarinn certainly was quite charming, and most often when he was being sincere, but there was a great deal more to their relationship than that.
You say Alfarinn is a spy first and foremost. Sorin, if there is one thing I am certain of, it is that above all Alfarinn is a good man. We are all in a complicated line of work, and at times it is our job to be less than forthcoming. And yes, at times we must do things that would make anyone uneasy. I believe there is more to us all than that.
As for Alfarinn 'playing me'...he shook his head and had to force his expression to neutrality. His lover certainly could 'play' him, but not in quite the way Sorin was thinking....I can tell you that I am certain that is not true. He knew that would not be anywhere near an adequate response for Sorin, but felt it should be said in any case. He did, however, continue.
Logically speaking, Alfarinn would have far more to lose than to gain by such a venture. I respect the inherent concern, though, and imagine there will for a time be suspicion on both sides of that very thing. We are, however, both committed to our respective clans, as we are to each other. It is an admittedly complicated relationship, I am aware.
He took a deep breath. I would simply ask that you give this time. I am not asking for your approval, or your blessing, or even your understanding. Thaddeus bit his lower lip before realizing what he was doing. That had cost him more than Sorin could know to say; he had for as long as he could remember sought the Elder's approval, but knew it would be a long time in coming in this case. He would not ask for something he was reasonably sure would not be given, at least not yet. Simply...your patience, and a small measure of faith in my judgment.
He looked away for a moment, gathering his thoughts before looking back. Sorin...I highly value your friendship. I do not want to lose that.
Even as he said it, true as the words were, he knew there would be a distance he could not possibly breach should Sorin chose not to believe him. Alfarinn was correct; the Elder -could- make his life more difficult in many ways, but the most painful would be losing his friend. Perhaps he was tipping his hand too much, revealing so much vulnerability, but he would be surprised if Sorin did not already know how he felt in any case and he felt candor was needed in this case.
He let the comment go and hoped there would be time for explanations later. He would be at Sorin's disposal once again soon enough, he hoped, though he could not be certain of that and so did not make assurances he could not keep.
Very well.
Sorin quickly moved on to what were clearly his true intentions for speaking with Thaddeus alone. He was not particularly surprised; after all, he and Alfarinn had spoken about this very issue. No doubt there was little he could say to reassure his Elder; time would have to tell on that count. He patiently heard his friend out, knowing that Sorin was speaking out of concern for him but aware of the biases in place.
He raised his eyebrow at the question, but answered straightforwardly enough.
Yes, there were Greys in the war.
The question was not a little uncomfortable; of course he kept track of the Grey family, it was only natural for him to take an interest in his human relatives, but he had made every effort to be discreet about it. He was of a different kind now, and showing extensive attachment to his human family seemed in a way ungrateful to him, and apt to make those around him uncomfortable, especially to those vampires old enough to see their human ties fall away into history.
In truth, there had likely been Greys on -both- sides of the war, though those on the colony side were much more distantly related. It was a hard blow to the family; not only had they fought, but some had lost their lives.
He found he was curious about what interest Alfarinn might have taken in the war; no doubt it was in his idealistic nature to take a concern, but to take such a key role in what was largely a human matter was interesting, as were most things about his companion. He wondered if it would be tactless to ask, and decided that conversation could only be awkward what with his own relatives being involved.
He leaned forward on his elbows to address Sorin's other points. In time, he hoped, Sorin would come to accept their relationship, but for now he could only hope the Elder could put aside his worries long enough to give the idea a chance.
I do appreciate your concern, truly I do.
He met Sorin's eyes. He did not smile, as he did not want to come off as patronizing, though the comment about Alfarinn being charming made him grin internally. Alfarinn certainly was quite charming, and most often when he was being sincere, but there was a great deal more to their relationship than that.
You say Alfarinn is a spy first and foremost. Sorin, if there is one thing I am certain of, it is that above all Alfarinn is a good man. We are all in a complicated line of work, and at times it is our job to be less than forthcoming. And yes, at times we must do things that would make anyone uneasy. I believe there is more to us all than that.
As for Alfarinn 'playing me'...he shook his head and had to force his expression to neutrality. His lover certainly could 'play' him, but not in quite the way Sorin was thinking....I can tell you that I am certain that is not true. He knew that would not be anywhere near an adequate response for Sorin, but felt it should be said in any case. He did, however, continue.
Logically speaking, Alfarinn would have far more to lose than to gain by such a venture. I respect the inherent concern, though, and imagine there will for a time be suspicion on both sides of that very thing. We are, however, both committed to our respective clans, as we are to each other. It is an admittedly complicated relationship, I am aware.
He took a deep breath. I would simply ask that you give this time. I am not asking for your approval, or your blessing, or even your understanding. Thaddeus bit his lower lip before realizing what he was doing. That had cost him more than Sorin could know to say; he had for as long as he could remember sought the Elder's approval, but knew it would be a long time in coming in this case. He would not ask for something he was reasonably sure would not be given, at least not yet. Simply...your patience, and a small measure of faith in my judgment.
He looked away for a moment, gathering his thoughts before looking back. Sorin...I highly value your friendship. I do not want to lose that.
Even as he said it, true as the words were, he knew there would be a distance he could not possibly breach should Sorin chose not to believe him. Alfarinn was correct; the Elder -could- make his life more difficult in many ways, but the most painful would be losing his friend. Perhaps he was tipping his hand too much, revealing so much vulnerability, but he would be surprised if Sorin did not already know how he felt in any case and he felt candor was needed in this case.
Sorin
18 years ago
Sorin listened to Thaddeus with a growing certainty that the boy had to die. He was thinking it less and less a shame as his clan mate continued speaking. The presumption and audacity of the little snot to not only pay no heed to his well meaning warnings but to tell him that he had no caring whatsoever for Sorin's imput or blessing in the matter.
He took a deep breath and keep the small attentive smile upon his face with great effort. He wondered vaguely if it hadn't frozen there. Talkative twit, Thaddeus always was that. The more Sorin thought about it the more he thought perhaps the clan would be better off without "Lord Grey". It was perhaps time to move forward. Indeed, a new protege might be in order, a child of Sorin, himself, it had been a while since he had made one. He admitted to having very little patience with them and some he simply wanted out of his sight almost the instant they were made. That Persian's sister, for instance, pretty but utterly useless and completely ungrateful for the gift he had given her.
A new child for the Order of the Night would be perfect. He would have to see to it the Wolf disposed of his problem for him and that meant that someone would then need to dispose of the Wolf, once the monster was taken care of his problems were solved.
It wouldn't do to appear to be angry with the boy right before he died, someone might suspect him of foul play if it ever gotten out that he had quarreled with Thaddeus just prior to his untimely, and knowing the Wolf, quite painful and gruesome death.
He chuckled and stood,looking over at the blonde.
"Don't be so melodramatic, Thaddeus, it won't come to all that." He sighed and looked upstairs, a cold hardness coming to his eyes before he regarded Thaddeus again. "I've taken too much of your time already. It is good to see you home, hopefully we'll be seeing more of you in the near future."
Yes, once or twice more to let everyone say their goodbyes, dear boy, and know that I had nothing to do with it. Such a tragedy, he should go prepare a speech in Thaddeus's honor, after all, as his elder, he would be called upon to speak at his memorial...just as he had spoke at Emma's.
He took a deep breath and keep the small attentive smile upon his face with great effort. He wondered vaguely if it hadn't frozen there. Talkative twit, Thaddeus always was that. The more Sorin thought about it the more he thought perhaps the clan would be better off without "Lord Grey". It was perhaps time to move forward. Indeed, a new protege might be in order, a child of Sorin, himself, it had been a while since he had made one. He admitted to having very little patience with them and some he simply wanted out of his sight almost the instant they were made. That Persian's sister, for instance, pretty but utterly useless and completely ungrateful for the gift he had given her.
A new child for the Order of the Night would be perfect. He would have to see to it the Wolf disposed of his problem for him and that meant that someone would then need to dispose of the Wolf, once the monster was taken care of his problems were solved.
It wouldn't do to appear to be angry with the boy right before he died, someone might suspect him of foul play if it ever gotten out that he had quarreled with Thaddeus just prior to his untimely, and knowing the Wolf, quite painful and gruesome death.
He chuckled and stood,looking over at the blonde.
"Don't be so melodramatic, Thaddeus, it won't come to all that." He sighed and looked upstairs, a cold hardness coming to his eyes before he regarded Thaddeus again. "I've taken too much of your time already. It is good to see you home, hopefully we'll be seeing more of you in the near future."
Yes, once or twice more to let everyone say their goodbyes, dear boy, and know that I had nothing to do with it. Such a tragedy, he should go prepare a speech in Thaddeus's honor, after all, as his elder, he would be called upon to speak at his memorial...just as he had spoke at Emma's.
Thaddeus Grey
18 years ago
At Sorin's chuckle, Thaddeus finally let the soft smile that had been threatening throughout the conversation break in relief.
I am glad, Sorin. I was concerned.
Sorin was right; he -was- being just slightly melodramatic, though his worries had been sincere enough. He supposed it was stress combined with the fact that he had let this conversation brew in his mind long enough to build up a good amount of worry.
When the Elder looked back to him though, the smile was gone, replaced by a weighted expression. No, he did not have Sorin's approval in this. At least there was some small amount of hope, though. Not that he expected the Elder of the Night would be coming over for drinks any time soon, but hopefully their professional relationship would not be strained and they could speak to each other as friends.
Not knowing quite how to answer Sorin's implicit query regarding his return to the Manor, he kept his answer non committal and, no doubt, just a little cowardly.
One can hope.
He told himself that it was unfair to Sorin to lay so much on the table in one day, that the Elder had already received enough of a shock finding them here as he did and announcing that he was moving out of the Manor might be pushing things a bit. In reality, though, Thaddeus felt the main thing he would have been pushing was his own luck. Selfish as it likely was, he felt it would be easier on everyone if he simply let Sorin sleep on the news he had already heard before giving him more surprises.
He walked to the curtain and held it back for Sorin, then turned to unlock the door. Meeting his Elder's eyes once more, he offered up a hesitant smile.
Thank you for thinking of me. It was good to see you.
That said, he opened the door. It was in fact gracious of Sorin to think of him first for an investigation, and he would have, under normal circumstances, regretted missing an opportunity to help his clan and possibly learn something new at the same time. And it -was- good to see his Elder; the timing was quite off, in fact it was downright terrible, but he had missed speaking to Sorin.
I am glad, Sorin. I was concerned.
Sorin was right; he -was- being just slightly melodramatic, though his worries had been sincere enough. He supposed it was stress combined with the fact that he had let this conversation brew in his mind long enough to build up a good amount of worry.
When the Elder looked back to him though, the smile was gone, replaced by a weighted expression. No, he did not have Sorin's approval in this. At least there was some small amount of hope, though. Not that he expected the Elder of the Night would be coming over for drinks any time soon, but hopefully their professional relationship would not be strained and they could speak to each other as friends.
Not knowing quite how to answer Sorin's implicit query regarding his return to the Manor, he kept his answer non committal and, no doubt, just a little cowardly.
One can hope.
He told himself that it was unfair to Sorin to lay so much on the table in one day, that the Elder had already received enough of a shock finding them here as he did and announcing that he was moving out of the Manor might be pushing things a bit. In reality, though, Thaddeus felt the main thing he would have been pushing was his own luck. Selfish as it likely was, he felt it would be easier on everyone if he simply let Sorin sleep on the news he had already heard before giving him more surprises.
He walked to the curtain and held it back for Sorin, then turned to unlock the door. Meeting his Elder's eyes once more, he offered up a hesitant smile.
Thank you for thinking of me. It was good to see you.
That said, he opened the door. It was in fact gracious of Sorin to think of him first for an investigation, and he would have, under normal circumstances, regretted missing an opportunity to help his clan and possibly learn something new at the same time. And it -was- good to see his Elder; the timing was quite off, in fact it was downright terrible, but he had missed speaking to Sorin.
Sorin
18 years ago
Sorin let himself be led out, remembering this dismissal as yet another slight. He had stood up, of course, making it appear that he was ready to leave by words and actions but it seemed to him that his clan mate was all too happy to be rid of him. How very rude.
He had a brief bought of philosophical thought, wondering if he was finding all these faults in Thaddeus in order to make it easier to do without him. Perhaps, but it needed to be done, even though the boy was the only person in the clan who saw him as a decent individual. He would miss seeing himself through Thaddeus's eyes. It had been a nice change from the suspicion he saw in Morrigan's and the disdain he read in Mai's, even Emma who had always been polite treated him with patience but distance. He never had her trust and it had always galled him, but Thaddeus believed in him and he'd miss that.
Sorin shrugged off the sentimentality and continued his plans for finding and making a new child. It would be different from his last one, stupid boy. The worthless brat had eventually run away from his apartment. It wasn't that big of a loss, the first few days were enough to have Sorin tired of him already... He could still hear the constant stream of "I want to go home...please let me go home." When he ran away, Sorin had let him go, figuring that eventually he'd come back once he realized that he needed others to help him survive but he didn't. He had gone home.
Sorin had to kill him in the end, there was no other way, not after his father had hired men to find his son, men who had found Thaddeus instead. If the other elders had learned what had happened to a clan member due to his carelessness with a child of his making, there would have been some punishment for the crime. Morrigan would have loved the excuse to have him thrown out of the clan, or at the very least stripped of his status as elder. Eric Gould wasn't worth that, not even as promising as he'd been before he took the gift of immortality so badly.
The next one would be different and if not, then he'd find another. It wasn't like he didn't have all the time in the world.
((OOC: Sorin out))
He had a brief bought of philosophical thought, wondering if he was finding all these faults in Thaddeus in order to make it easier to do without him. Perhaps, but it needed to be done, even though the boy was the only person in the clan who saw him as a decent individual. He would miss seeing himself through Thaddeus's eyes. It had been a nice change from the suspicion he saw in Morrigan's and the disdain he read in Mai's, even Emma who had always been polite treated him with patience but distance. He never had her trust and it had always galled him, but Thaddeus believed in him and he'd miss that.
Sorin shrugged off the sentimentality and continued his plans for finding and making a new child. It would be different from his last one, stupid boy. The worthless brat had eventually run away from his apartment. It wasn't that big of a loss, the first few days were enough to have Sorin tired of him already... He could still hear the constant stream of "I want to go home...please let me go home." When he ran away, Sorin had let him go, figuring that eventually he'd come back once he realized that he needed others to help him survive but he didn't. He had gone home.
Sorin had to kill him in the end, there was no other way, not after his father had hired men to find his son, men who had found Thaddeus instead. If the other elders had learned what had happened to a clan member due to his carelessness with a child of his making, there would have been some punishment for the crime. Morrigan would have loved the excuse to have him thrown out of the clan, or at the very least stripped of his status as elder. Eric Gould wasn't worth that, not even as promising as he'd been before he took the gift of immortality so badly.
The next one would be different and if not, then he'd find another. It wasn't like he didn't have all the time in the world.
((OOC: Sorin out))
Thaddeus Grey
18 years ago
Thaddeus closed the door behind Sorin and locked it, then took a shaky breath. And another, leaning his forehead on the door.
The conversation could have gone better, but it also could have been much worse. Thaddeus found that, for better or worse, he was mostly glad that it was over. He chuckled darkly at the thought of crossing yet another problem off the list.
A rather long list.
And why was he standing at the door when Alfarinn was waiting upstairs? He shook his head, wondering when his mind had become so scattered, and turned back to his quarters.
He made his way swiftly up the stairs, doing his best to once again switch gears as he opened the bedroom door.
[I am on my way. The next person to knock on that door had damn well better be giving notice that the Manor itself is on...]
"Oh."Â?
Alfarinn had clearly made himself comfortable in his absence, not that Thaddeus had any complaints whatsoever. His lover was, in fact, quite a sight at the moment, and he suddenly found it rather difficult to think clearly beyond that.
He gave his head a shake to come back to his senses and approached the bed, unbuttoning his shirt as he went. He felt he ought to offer some explanation of his conversation, considering it -did- concern Alfarinn to some extent, and so he spoke in a rush as he pulled off the shirt and climbed into the bed.
"It was nothing of consequence, nor anything we did not expect. Sorin will come around eventually. I hope you do not trouble yourself over him; it does not appear he wishes to make things difficult for us."Â?
Deciding he had spoken quite enough for the moment, he stretched out on the bed next to Alfarinn and managed to unbutton his pants before moving closer and kissing his lover full on the mouth as he removed the rest of his clothing, kicking the pants off the edge of the bed. Some part of his mind was reminding himself that he would not be able to fall asleep if he didn't pick up those pants and put them where they belonged, but he quieted it quickly enough as he pressed himself against Alfarinn, sighing contentedly.
"Now. Where were we, exactly?"Â?
The conversation could have gone better, but it also could have been much worse. Thaddeus found that, for better or worse, he was mostly glad that it was over. He chuckled darkly at the thought of crossing yet another problem off the list.
A rather long list.
And why was he standing at the door when Alfarinn was waiting upstairs? He shook his head, wondering when his mind had become so scattered, and turned back to his quarters.
He made his way swiftly up the stairs, doing his best to once again switch gears as he opened the bedroom door.
[I am on my way. The next person to knock on that door had damn well better be giving notice that the Manor itself is on...]
"Oh."Â?
Alfarinn had clearly made himself comfortable in his absence, not that Thaddeus had any complaints whatsoever. His lover was, in fact, quite a sight at the moment, and he suddenly found it rather difficult to think clearly beyond that.
He gave his head a shake to come back to his senses and approached the bed, unbuttoning his shirt as he went. He felt he ought to offer some explanation of his conversation, considering it -did- concern Alfarinn to some extent, and so he spoke in a rush as he pulled off the shirt and climbed into the bed.
"It was nothing of consequence, nor anything we did not expect. Sorin will come around eventually. I hope you do not trouble yourself over him; it does not appear he wishes to make things difficult for us."Â?
Deciding he had spoken quite enough for the moment, he stretched out on the bed next to Alfarinn and managed to unbutton his pants before moving closer and kissing his lover full on the mouth as he removed the rest of his clothing, kicking the pants off the edge of the bed. Some part of his mind was reminding himself that he would not be able to fall asleep if he didn't pick up those pants and put them where they belonged, but he quieted it quickly enough as he pressed himself against Alfarinn, sighing contentedly.
"Now. Where were we, exactly?"Â?