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Post by Prince Aiden Forest on Jul 21, 2021 9:51:47 GMT -5
Aiden paced in his dark office. He was a little nervous, but not that nervous. This was going to be a big year.
He pulled out a chalice of blood from a nearby cart, and poured a tumbler glass half full.
All twelve of the Western Princes just needed to RSVP and the Summit was on! The vampire prince of Los Angeles had time to prepare, but far too many decisions to make before he committed on a date.
He swirled the blood in the glass, watching the light red film coat the inside. He knew how to throw a party. It was the guests he worried about. All of the vampire clans were represented, but not all of them were allies. He often thought of the turmoil surrounding his own rise to power. San Francisco had long been the vampire capital of California, but Aiden demanded that the location had to be the first thing to change. His bold and renegade attitude towards the governance of the Kindred gained him a reputation of being the one of the most lavish but persnickety princes to ever take power.
Although it had been finalized, he had reviewed and rechecked the guest list, to confirm the VIP's, trying to make sure he hadn't left anyone out. He read over the list a few times.
~VIP Guest List~
The Kindred Western Conference Summit, within the twenty second century, shall be held in Los Angeles, California
Hosted by the Toreador Prince, Aiden Forest, date and time TBD.
In no particular order:
Clara - Malkavian - (Las Vegas, Nevada) De Montcalm - Ventrue -(Colorado Springs, Colorado) C. Henry - Gangrel (Cheyenne, Wyoming) M.Briggs - Tremere - (Albuquerque, New Mexico) Marlowe - Nosferatu - (Yakutat, Alaska) Claudia - Banu Haqim (Honolulu, Hawaii) Rory - Ravnos - (Seattle, Washington) Bert - Brujah - (Anaconda, Montana) Josef - Tzimisce - (Boise, Idaho) Fiona - Lasombra (Portland, Oregon) Tur'Maha - The Ministry - (Salt Lake City, Utah) Luna - Hecate - (Phoenix, Arizona)
Then there was Ivan Nicholavich, the Mad Russian. Aiden's sire and predecessor had been a Prince once, if not briefly. He had gone into hiding after nearly thirty years of a secret war against the United States government. It was thought he had only survived the wrath of his own people because of a Methuselah relative, or he would have died long ago.
Aiden had forgotten the last time they had talked. Ivan craved ...relevance.
Did he expect Ivan to crash the summit? It was not only a possibility; it was likely to happen. Ivan loved being the center of attention, and once he got wind of the event date, there would be no stopping him. He wouldn't care how many enemies he had... Ivan had become a master of disguise. He would disrupt many of the planned negotiations in his own way.
Aiden tipped his glass and drank the blood down in one gulp and pressed the intercom button on his mahogany desk.
"Scarlet? Get me ...security. The Brujah. I need to go over details, so make sure she has her notes because I have some items to add."
He released the button.
"Yes sir."
He pressed the button once more.
"Oh, and order lunch. Does Mediterranean sound good? Grab someone off of Madura Avenue...maybe West Hollywood... you can surprise me, eh... you know what I like."
He could hear the wry smile in her voice. "Of course, sir."
He glanced out of the tower window, looking at the city below. He'd probably need to clear out his schedule tonight to prepare.
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Post by Myrine Leventis on Jul 22, 2021 12:29:26 GMT -5
She'd lounge upon her chaise, feet propped up on one end, head resting upon the other. She'd bring the crimson liquid filled glass to her lips and drink it in slowly, closing her eyes as she savored the flavour, allowing it to linger upon her tongue before swallowing it down with a smile.
Myrine's euphoric state would be broken by the ringing of her cell phone. She'd swing her legs off to the side to sit upright, expertly keeping her glass level through the quick and sudden repositioning to answer her phone.
"Yes?"
"The Brujah's presence has been requested." Scarlet, secretary to the Prince of LA's voice would ring out with a hint of amusement.
Myrine could not contain the scoff that left her lips. She hated when he addressed her as such. "Did he now? I hope for something fun."
"To go over security details."
Again she would scoff. Security wasn't in her job description. She was the one you called in when things went sideways. She made his issues go away. She didn't appreciate Aiden instead asking her to organize and babysit him and a bunch of his dignitary friends. But he had asked and she had agreed... once her fees were met.
"Because of course he does. You can tell him I'll be there shortly."
And with that she'd hang up the phone. She'd take another drink from her glass and finish it off, pulling it away to give it an appreciative glance before a muffled groan caught her attention. She'd look over to the man in the business suit duct taped to a chair, his arm stretched out, his sleeve so neatly rolled up and his wrist cut just enough to allow his blood to drip down into another glass that sat below it. She'd tilt her head to the side, pouting as she looked at him. She'd set the glass down upon the table next to her phone, walking over to the human who's eyes grew wider with each step.
"Our time's been interrupted I'm afraid. Such a pity. You taste so good when you're terrified."
Myrine straddled the man's lap, pulling his head to the side and sunk her fangs deep into his neck. Fear would turn into euphoria as the vampire's kiss broke his skin. His groan going from the slow and steady pain of being cut and bound to abstract pleasure as he was drained down to the last drop. She'd lick the bite wound and it sealed shut as if it was never there, leaving behind only the mark of her red lipstick.
She'd stand, pulling the handkerchief from his pocket to dab at the corners of her mouth before taking up her keys and phone, slipping on her shoes, and making her way out the door to meet with Aiden. Not 20 minutes later she'd walk into his estate.
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Post by Rory Connoly on Jul 22, 2021 17:46:31 GMT -5
The rain fell gently in shimmering droplets, covering Seattle in a crystalline blanket as it fell against the light of the moon. Outside the mahogany framed office, a series of repetitive thuds could be heard behind the thick doors as a very pert secretary looked up Zara with a wince in her eyes.
"Mr. Connoly is otherwise occupied, Ms. Almasi. I'm not sure now it the right time...."
Blinking twice, the dark skinned woman would glare at the secretary, causing her to visibly shake in her chair. The mere sight of the Middle Eastern woman in her black leathers was imposing enough, but the gentle tap of her fingers against the grip of her sidearm coupled with the piercing void of the eyes that promised a long and painful death shook this poor mortal to the core.
"But, it's obviously up to you...."
Zara would snort, walking to the doors and knock twice. Inside her mind she would hear the command "Come" and she'd enter, closing the door behind her. Walking over to Rory's desk, she'd sit in his chair and kick her heeled thigh boots up on to the wood. Looking over at the wiry Irishman, she'd watch as he swung his baseball bat over and over into the poor bastard hanging there. He didn't have a lot of muscle and his swings were sloppy, but it appeared to at least be cathartic to him.
"Ye dinnae *thud* go near th'fuckin' *thud* forrest y'dim *thud* fuckin' *thud* bastard! Th'Garou *thud* must nae fin'out *thud* we be usin' em *thud* as guard dogs! Ye know how long *thud* i'took me *thud* to trick 'em intae *thud* livin' there?"
Shirtless and spattered in blood, he'd turn to Zara with a playful grin, dropping his bat.
"An' you love...what news then? Out wit'it!"
Zara would stare at him quietly, then flip the invitation onto the desk.
"Aiden is throwing a little Prince Party. He'd like you to attend."
"Th'fuck ye think I want tae go tae that fer? Bunch o'bloody twats and bollox gobblers, that lot! Sure'n there'd be plenty to snatch from pockets and what not, but the agonizin' boredom an'th'speechs love, th'SPEECHES! Self-aggrandizin' bastards they are! Fer Fuck's Sake, I'd rather gobble some razor wire, shat it out th'other end and fuckin' floss m'self t'death afore'n I go. You tell that pretty boy bastard that there is no way in bloody hell Rory Conolly is EVER goin' tae..."
"Ivan will likely be there."
"Ivan y'say? An....an Bertie too?"
She would nod slowly.
"Jaysus Mary an' Joseph, why didna' ye say so! Polish me shiny shoes love, we're goin' to a party!"
"I will not, on this day or any other, polish your shoes Ravnos. Of this you can be certain."
"It's jus' an expression...calm ye tits Zara. Speakin' o'which...did ye get a present for Ariel?"
"It was waiting for her when she awoke, along with a note inviting her to be your plus one. Hopefully she'll find a dress to wear amongst the 15 piles of finery you've amassed for her."
He would clap his hands loudly once and put a cigarette in his lips. Grinning broadly he'd chuckle.
"Why do you even do that...you don't actually smoke"
"Ol' habits dinnae die, love, jus'like me! Now...what're we waitin' fer? Time tae go!"
He'd draw his pistol, shoot the man in the head twice, then shrug, looking for a shirt to pull on. Walking out the door, he called to the Assamite.
"Finish and dispose of that, aye? Usual fee, a'course. You're in charge while I'm away! Ta ta!"
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Post by Ariel Hawkins on Jul 23, 2021 10:39:40 GMT -5
The sun had set, eyelashes gently fluttered open. She'd sit up and stretch her rested muscles as she glanced around the concrete sealed room under her house. Something seemed off and she'd clap twice with an amused smile as the lights in her bedroom came on. Such a fun gadget that came out during the 80's, she just had to pick it up and had to bring it with her when she officially moved from the Bay area of San Francisco to Seattle. Rory had been persuasive and she was in need of another house anyway.
Just to her right and on her nightstand sat a box with a small envelope next to it. This was new and curiously she'd turn to pluck the item and envelope with slender fingers.
"Awwwwww!!!"
She's smile brightly, pulling out the ring with the 3 carat ruby and gold ring and slipping it on her finger. A perfect match to the ruby necklace Rory had first gifted her in 1955. Eagerly she'd open the envelope to find the invitation to the LA conference. Excitement filled the face of the forever youthful redhead only to suddenly be filled with horror, blue eyes going extra wide. Someone had been in her house. Someone had been inside and made it all the way to her bedroom. Which means they traversed the majority of the inside. She didn't like people seeing the inside of her house.
She'd stand quickly, slipping on her robe and house shoes, stepping over the many rugs that lined the concrete floors and reaching out to touch the walls lined with framed artwork to open the door. The stairway was blessedly clean as she went up into the main floor, squeezing her way through her tight and neatly stacked hallways to the actual master bedroom. There was a bed, but upon it lay several stacks of neatly folded sweaters and shirts. Around the bed sat racks of clothes hung up neatly. Dresses, skirts, suits, all covered in plastic from various eras starting with the 50's on up. She'd back out, going into another room that was filled with books from floor to ceiling with only enough room for an accent chair, a foot stool, and a small table with a reading lamp. She'd look through the hall to the front door and around the corner to the kitchen. Anywhere there was space to set something was filled but all neatly arranged with room to traverse if you were careful. Nothing had been knocked over. Nothing was out of place. This wasn't Rory who left the gift which means it had to of been Zara. Rory would not have made it through her house without at least knocking something over.
Still she'd press her lips together in frustration, reaching into her pocket to pull out the cell phone and dial his number.
"Rory. Thank you for the gift but... you know how I feel about having people just.. in my house. Even if it was Zara and even if she is very careful. Still, I do love the ring. I will need to pack which will take... time? Just let me know when I need to be ready and I will try."
She'd eye the bedroom with all the clothes with a bit of anxiety. What would she need to bring with her for LA. She didn't own a house there.
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Post by butterflyhime on Jul 29, 2021 21:47:33 GMT -5
"If you give a mouse a cookie, he'll want a glass of milk. If you give a mouse some milk, he'll want some more. If you give a mouse more milk... he'll develop a taste for blood. If he develops a taste for blood, he'll become a vampire. If he becomes a vampire, he'll have to make some followers..." The young girl moved a little on the bed getting more comfortable and gave the little boy a pat on the head before continuing her story.
"Now, if he makes some followers, they will need to feed. If they're feed too much the National Guard will be called out. If the National Guard is called out, they too will become fodder for the vampires. If the National Guard fails, the President will call in a nuclear strike. If a nuke is dropped, hundreds of thousands of people will die. America will become a nuclear wasteland and collapse. With no one to keep the rest of the world's nukes in check, every crackpot nation will launch their own. Eventually the entire Earth will be destroyed...." She gave another pause and looked at the boy again.
"And that's why i had to kill your daddy. He was giving a mouse a cookie." She let out a little giggle and licked one of her fingers clean of the red liquid that was fast drying on it, what a waste.
"Sleep well, sweetie."
There was the sound of a throat clearing and the girl moved from the bed leaving the room with a pleased look on her face. Ok so the dad hadn't been giving the mouse a cookie. Instead he'd been spouting off some religious bullshit and it had pissed her off. She straightened her dress and looked over at the male who stood in the hallway. He was taller then her, not that it took much and had a mop of pretty wavy black hair.
"What is it Kris?"
"Was that really necessary Clara?" He asked giving a little frown to her. She just giggled at that and patted his shoulder.
"It was, he'll be fine don't worry, i had a small sip before i told him the bedtime story. Why did you come and interrupt my dinner?"
He sighed and fell into step beside of her straightening his own clothing "You'll be late. You're suppose to be going to Conference Summit remember? I have two bags packed for you already. There's a couple of outfits each if any of the others decide to come out to play."
Her eyes lit up at that. "You're right i can't be late for my vacation."
"It's not a vacation."
"It's most certainly a vacation." She pushed back strands of her blonde hair that had fallen from the pigtails she wore. "Oh don't have a fit Kris you can handle things while i'm gone I trust you."
The look Kris gave her clearly stated that wasn't the problem he was worried about. He reached up a fiddled with a strand of his hair deciding it was best not to say those words out loud. It wasn't easy to tell what his sire would do from one moment to the next but he'd spent years beside of her and had learned a lot about her, enough to know when the push and when to back down.
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Post by Prince Aiden Forest on Jul 30, 2021 23:16:49 GMT -5
"Ms. Leventis! Ms. Leventis!! You cannot just walk in- I'm sorry sir."
"Its alright Scarlet. She's here. That's all that matters. Come in and shut the doors behind you."
Scarlet adjusted her oval spectacles. Her more formal red dress and lipstick complimented her dark complexion, as did her cropped hair. Professional and neat as always, she never let on that she liked her job even when Aiden was being an ass.
"As you wish sir. I brought the information about the civic center as you requested. We negotiated the rental space down to next to nothing, and the city has offered to assist with the security costs on the perimeter grounds. The venue should be ready by next..." She looked down at her clipboard. "Week."
Aiden sat at his desk with his arms crossed. "We'll go over the numbers later when we don't have company. Did you print up copies of the map, itinerary and the VIP list?"
"It's right here, Aiden." she placed the papers on his desk.
"Ok. Before we bore you to death, Myrine... congratulations on your new promotion."
Scarlet fake golf clapped and squeaked slightly.
"You are now my number zero, which means you will be doing more important tasks than just security detail, but in secret. This is why I hired you in the first place, but we had to test your skills in a more mundane role first. Your salary just tripled."
Scarlet shuffled through her clipboard.
"Let's not get ahead of ourselves sir." Scarlet took a step forward in her heels, which clacked on the marble flooring. "Mr. Forest also would like to add that you will be provided with an infinite blood supply before and during the Summit. We have a contract that will detail the compensation upon success." she paused. "I will say this- if you accept this role, you need not worry about hogtied accountants. We'll just send someone up."
Aiden grinned, and sighed. "I already know what you're thinking. You have but one responsibility. Damage control. The target is Ivan Nicholavich."
Aiden poured another glass of blood, and downed it in one gulp.
"I don't need him dead. I just need someone to keep him away from the other guests. He is powerful enough to get into their heads, and from what I've heard, he used to rub elbows with some of them around seventy years ago. Considering the political climate of San Francisco, its safe to say he's good at creating bedlam. I can't just kill him off, though. I owe him too many favors."
Scarlet cleared her throat. "Is this really about the fact that he's your sire?"
"Its not just that, Scarlet. He's my ex." He shook his head and gripped the leather armrests of his expensive desk chair, with slight hint of irritation. "So, yes. I went through a phase."
"A phase? Pardon me, but dating Eastern European terrorists with murderous tendencies... seems a bit more than a phase, sir. That's specific."
Aiden fumbled around with his wedding ring. "I like switching it up every few decades, ok?" He rolled his eyes. "And who asked for your opinion anyway?"
Scarlet sighed, but smirked slightly. "I apologize for bringing it up. I didn't realize the subject was that tender. Personal issues aside, I would like to formally offer Ms. Leventis the position of 'Fixer'. You'll need to read and sign the short contract I've drawn up from Legal if you wish to accept."
Aiden was happy to change the subject. "Yes. This is non-negotiable. Do the job right, then compensation is guaranteed. You can say no, but if you do, I wouldn't expect you to see any opportunities like this again, from anyone in L.A. County, anyway."
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Post by Myrine Leventis on Jul 31, 2021 9:46:57 GMT -5
Myrine strode through the building as if she owned the place, adjusting the jacket to her perfectly tailored and expensive green suit as she walked. An undeniable presence that left most stepping out of her path. Even Scarlet, Aiden's secretary, who had met the woman dozens of times would hesitate to even stand from her chair as she approached and then passed her desk. It would be the fear of potentially disappointing her boss that would force her to do so and chase after her as Myrine opened the door and just walked into the office.
"You wished to see me?"
She'd stop just in front of his desk, leaning against the back of a chair that sat in front of it as he gaze flicked back and forth between Aiden and Scarlet. Then he'd announce it. A promotion? A curious brow would arch sharply before she'd snap her gaze over to Scarlet and scowl, finding her golf claps and squeak to be absurd. She'd stand up straight as the secretary stepped towards her, talking of contracts and hogtied accountants. A slow and wicked grin slipping across her lips.
"I like hogtied accountants. Or anyone who has a false sense of authority. They taste all the sweeter when you break them." She'd flex her presence just enough for the mortal that had stepped within her bubble for a feeling of awe and intimidation. Just to remind her who she was dealing with.
Aiden would continue, explaining her target and her purpose. Myrine had heard of this Ivan. Anyone remotely close to the Prince had heard of this Ivan truthfully. Myrine knew enough. She had run her background check on this Prince before coming to LA and by Proxy, run a background check on Ivan as well. But this was around the beginning of Aiden's rule, she would need to update her records. For now she'd ignore the jabs the secretary tossed at her boss about his love life.
"I will look over your contract."
She'd take a step closer to the desk, her gaze going to the paperwork that had been laid there with the VIP list, turning it around in her direction so she could look through it.
"The convention is a week away. I am aware that accommodations have been made for them and extra security provided on top of their own should they accept your hospitality. Who has RSVP'd thus far, when are they arriving, and are they staying at the locations you have provided?"
The majority of them had been offered accommodations at Aiden's own estate. Others at high rise towers. Others at more private locations that were not directly downtown. All depending upon the preference of those invited. Someone had done their research.
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Post by Rory Connoly on Jul 31, 2021 11:29:00 GMT -5
Rory would wash up, pulling on an untucked white dress shirt and leather vest, putting his fedora on his head. Strapping on a gold watch and bracelet, he'd exit his personal bathroom and snap his fingers, twirling an index finger on this right hand upward towards the sky and in small circles. From the shadows a mis-matched group of vampires fell into step behind him. One thing San Francisco had taught him was the use of the other clans. A severely ugly Nosferatu stepped up beside him, handing him a sealed envelope with a nod, then retreated into the shadows. An Assamite made her presence known, then disappeared into thin air as she darted forward to scout the path for threats. A member of House High Saturday slipped up and whispered a few things into his ear. Rory would nod, then wave his hand off, causing the Tremere to retreat to a special lab and occult temple where another member of House Rodolfo worked feverishly. Two Brujah in biker leathers would take up step and flank him, He'd shake his head.
"Nae lads...I be jus'goin' t'see Ariel. Nary a need t'fret nor cause 'er tae fret. Do me a solid an' send a note tae Bertie...ask 'im if 'e wants tae 'ave lunch wit'an ol' friend a'fore th'meetin' an'catch up."
He'd pause in mid-step causing everyone to straighten and tense up. A finger came to his chin, followed by a wry grin and a nod as he decided on an afterthought.
"Staple it tae a pair'o 'ookers....fer ol'times sake, yeah? There's a pair o'good lads."
The two would nod and move to start the trek to Montana. It would take them a day or two to get there, but Rory figured it would be at least a week before everyone was organized enough to meet in a location. He had no doubt that Myrine would notice the presence of Rory's Assamite scouts in her town. That should be RSVP enough from him. He didn't stand on ceremony when it came to gilded responses or any of that hoity toity nonsense. He wanted information and security. He'd performed a Diablierie or tow in the past, and while the power level of the victims was enough of a cautionary tale to the few that knew about it not to speak of the secret, one never knew if the BloodHunt had finally been called. After all, the easiest way to flush a rat from his hole is to invite him with a gilded bed and fine cheese. Rory was rarely surprised and even more rarely unprepared. It was what had kept him upright for so long - he did the dirty work that others would not or could not do. Always easier to have an untouchable scapegoat in politics than get one's own hands dirty. It was how he had also collected such a diverse group of misfits from other clans. They were all experts at what they did, but what they did were not generally accepted by Vampire Society.
"Bring th'car round, yeah? I need tae'see me bonnie rose. As usual m'good intentions have ruffled her petals a touch."
He would exit his building and step into a prototype vehicle with welding glass style windows that immediately darkened and became opaque. The vehicle had an angular look with a wide wheel base. Short of a direct nuclear blast, it was bullet proof, rocket proof, had re-inflatable tires and several built in countermeasures. He'd had his Tremere groups working on light bending technology, but they'd been unsuccessful so far. He idly wondered about reaching out to Hans about it - it had been a long time, but he was still fond of him. They weren't precisely friends, but Rory did trust him.
Rory pulled out his phone, typing in an order for Dominican bannanas, sending them to Winston for Ra as a way of greeting to his old Rav Kumpania friend. He'd then text Ariel quickly.
"Sorry about Zara, love - you know I'd never mean to make you fret. I aim to swing by shortly if you'll see me. The moonlight is dim without your face to reflect it."
He'd call Clara as well, getting voicemail.
"Oy...Fruitloop! Is Rory...I be goin' to Aiden's shindig...wonderin' if'n ye goin' tae be there. Y'know...stab vests are bulky an'if'n I dinnae need it an' all I'll be sure tae be disappointed! Hopin' tae see y'love...give me a call if'n ye care to...been too long since I've seen all six'o'ye. Ye're me second favorite Malky, after all! Kisses love!"
The car would pull away from the curb and begin the drive towards Ariel's haven, three cars following at a distance. All the cars would take non-geometric paths, circling around Seattle to ensure they were not being tailed before finally heading towards her. He would open the sealed folder, pulling out the results of his business ventures, scams, data mining institutions and criminal activities. The last page was actually a glossy 8x10 photo. Taking a deep breath, he stared at it for a long moment. A heavily bearded Russian with a very old Mosin Nagant rifle was seen aiming at something. He wondered how many Kindred and Mortals he'd lost to not only get the photo, but get it out to his eyes. They'd been on opposite sides long ago, but he'd always felt that Ivan cared less about sides as he himself had. Fate had opposed them, but he had respect. He'd often wondered what had transpired between Aiden and Ivan, and if some day he'd get a call from one or the other to eliminate the other. He chewed on the end of his unlit cigarette anxiously, then shrugged. He put all the documents into a small slit where high level electricity incinerated them without the use of flame. There was always a solution to every problem.
Pulling up in front of Ariel's haven, he stepped out of his car, taking up a small crystal rose and holding it in his hand. He'd wait at the curb, looking to her door. He thought that if she wasn't too mad at him for invading her space, perhaps they could sneak out for a bite and discuss Aiden's soiree and the accommodations Ariel might like to be comfortable at the Summit.
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Post by Ariel Hawkins on Aug 1, 2021 11:58:29 GMT -5
Ariel was in her bedroom, going through hung clothes and beginning to make stacks on the bed, moving aside other folded items so she could attempt at least to organize what was potential vacation clothes what needed to be put away... somewhere. At least it was clean. At least there was an organizational thought process to it. But about every fifteen years it got to be too much and that was when she would just buy another house. Everything had it's place and every house was almost like a time capsule that had been kept much like museum storage over the last 153 years.
Her phone would ding and she'd pause what she was doing to look at the incoming message with an amused but sweet smile. She knew Rory too well. If he aimed to do something he was going to do it. It meant he was already on his way over, not waiting for her permission. She wouldn't bother to respond, she would see him shortly regardless.
Ariel would hear his car pull up and she'd set the dress she had in her hand aside to wiggle her way out of the bedroom. She would leave him waiting. But not for long. Never for too long.
The door to her one story home would creek open, bright green eyes peeking out to see who else might be there. All she would notice would be Rory standing on the sidewalk with his driver waiting in the car. She'd smile, opening the door just wide enough for her to slip out of. She had changed, wearing high waisted capri pants, a short sweater and clogs. All very reminiscent of the 1950's or early 60's. Not the year she was embraced, but a decade that had certainly embedded it's self within her psyche.
"Rory. I see you made it."
Her eyes would flicker to the crystal rose in his hand and her gaze would soften. She had told him before the gifts weren't necessary, but all the same she cherished everything he had given her. In every house she owned she had at least one room dedicated to every trinket that wasn't wearable that he had decided to gift her. Even the random things he pulled out of people's pockets. Why, she had a little metal, decorative tree on a table that contained every keychain he had pick pocketed. From the simple to the gaudy, she didn't care. She wouldn't part with any of them.
She'd take a few steps down her walkway and motion for him to meet her half way. "You didn't have to bring a gift. I wasn't that mad at you." She'd almost coo with a flutter of eyelashes, looking down to the rose and back up to him. "But it is beautiful." She'd lean over to press a gentle kiss to his lips.
"You are welcome inside. Unless you have other plans."
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Post by butterflyhime on Aug 1, 2021 12:45:58 GMT -5
Clara settled down after finally getting Kris to leave her alone long enough in her office. She listened to her voicemails and gave a little huff. "Second favorite? Rude...i should stab him just for that." She wrinkled her nose up and instead of calling him she wrote a text message and sent it.
I plan on being there, who might or might not come isn't up to be, but it'll be good to see you and Ariel again. Are you telling me you haven't found a less bulky stab visit in all these years? Call me your second favorite again and you might need the stab vest.
She let out an amused laugh and checked the time, it was best to go or Kris would come in and fuss at her. Clara smirked and stood up She took her time to move things around on the desk making sure to make a tiny little mess. If she was going on vacation she could at least torment Kris some before she left. She went over to the books on the shelf and switched a few of the titles around. Poor Kris would have a fit when he saw that. She left the room feeling pleased with herself.
"I'm ready for my vacation Kris."
"It's not a vacation." Kris muttered giving his sire a look.
"Yes yes whatever you say Kris."
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Post by Elise Beaufort on Aug 2, 2021 20:45:54 GMT -5
The room was dark. Long heavy black out curtains ensured that. Elise stretched a bit before rolling over onto her side. A small smirk formed as she felt the warm body next to her. One hand gently ran up the smooth skin of the girl’s stomach and over her sternum before stopping at her neck. Elise’s thumb made gentle circles over the delicate spot at the center of her throat. She felt the young women start to wake and propped herself up on her elbow watching. It was always delightful to watch the struggle when they realized they were tied down and unable to move. A smirk would cross Elise’s lips as cold blue eyes held the human’s gaze. Elise feigned a pout, practically mocking the girl.
“You passed out before we could do anything. I just couldn’t risk you running off on me, now could I?” She tsked lightly. “You would have been such fun to play with too.”
The fear was tangible and the girl's eyes widened. it brought a cruel smirk to Elise's lips that replaced the pout. Elise moved to straddle the girl and let her lips drop gentle kisses along her neck. The girl’s head tilted to the side and Elise took the opportunity to sink her fangs into the soft flesh. It didn’t take long for the life to be drained from the poor thing. Elise made sure to close the wound before removing herself from the bed.
She moved across the room and stared into her closet. Elise removed a few hangers and laid them over the back of a chair. One more look through and she was satisfied with her choice - a high waisted black pencil skirt, form fitting white button down shirt, blazer, and a black pair of christian louboutin heels. She ran her fingers through her wavy locks before she smoothed her hands over the front of her shirt. Elise headed out of her room to find Cassandra waiting near the door.
Elise offered a smile to her that seemed to be devoid of any actual emotion. It was rare for Elise to keep the same person around, even rarer, for them to still be alive. She had taken a liking to Cassandra though. It didn't take long before Elise decided to hire her on as a personal assistant. If nothing else, it helped with keeping up appearances. Elise closed the door before she walked past Cassandra, heading for the stairs.
“Ben will take care of cleaning up.”
It was on Cassandra to keep up to Elise’s pace. A few corrections immediately after the girl started was all it took for her to not make the same mistakes again. Elise kept her eyes straight ahead, her hand resting lightly against the wide banister as she gracefully navigated the steps. Once at the bottom she pivoted sharply causing Cassandra to pause on the steps.
“You are to stay in the car. Understood?”
Ben opened the door for the two and Elise would give him a nod as she walked by - a small but polite thank you. Elise wasn’t much for small talk. She could and would do it if the situation warranted it. However, at the moment she had nothing of substance to say. The tinted windows of the car made it darker than it would have been if it were just the darkness of the night. The driver pulled up to the entrance as Elise gave Cassandra a final serious look.
“Remember, stay in the car. I will let you know if I need you.”
Elise’s foot found the ground as the driver opened the door. He offered his hand and Elise would flash a charming smile as she stepped out. If someone was watching it looked like a well choreographed dance.
“Thank you.”
She made her way to the main entrance and entered. The desk outside of Aiden’s office was empty and his secretary was nowhere to be found. Elise deduced from the closed door that Scarlet was in his office. She didn’t want to be rude and interrupt the meeting so Elise leaned against Scarlet’s desk. It would be rude to interrupt so she waited patiently. Time was something she had an abundance of after all.
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Post by Prince Aiden Forest on Aug 2, 2021 22:14:12 GMT -5
Aiden texted his sound engineer. He wanted to have this particular song played as he was announced at the Summit. He was admittedly distracted. "Hm?" He looked back down at his phone, and Scarlet addressed Myrine's concerns, he dismissed them both politely. "Uh yes. We haven't been formally introduced. I'm Scarlet Hendricks of the Toreador. I'm Mr. Forest's private administrator slash secretary, slash ass wiper, if he had his way. I know. Terrible isn't it? Forgive my tone, but Mr. Forest will be incredibly busy with hosting duties, so nothing gets to him without going through me first. Trust me, I think I'll be doing you a favor as your direct point of contact for this event."She pushed her spectacles, and smiled genuinely, in that customer service way. "Now then. To answer your questions. Yes, five or six of the outlier princes have announced they will be attending. None of them have opted to stay directly in the main building." She blinked. "Not a major concern, Aiden's closer allies usually wait until the last moment to commit."She tapped her heel lightly. "There's the Irish vampire Rory from Seattle, his lady friend Ariel, the Malkavian from Las Vegas who has six names, some lumberjack fellow from Montana, his name is Bert I believe, he called collect because I guess he doesn't believe in email or texting... or something. And Fiona McIntyre, the nun, who settled in Portland. She messaged me right before this meeting."Aiden looked up, his eyes wide in excitement. "Fiona's gonna make it? Sweet! Maybe your job will be easier with her around."Scarlet nodded. "Never mind him. He gushes every time he hears her name. Yes... Fiona is sort of an elder sire for Aiden. Ivan was her chylde. Fiona built a therapeutic pharmaceutical conglomerate from basically...nothing. She even hired one of Aiden's clients to represent her in the commercials. We call her 'the nun' as a bit of a playful jab because apparently she was a catholic nun when she was embraced. Mr. Forest requested I notify him if she reached out, if only to assist with Ivan if he shows up.""And you did precisely that, thank you, Ms. Hendricks." He smirked without looking up from his phone. She glanced down at her clipboard, back to the VIP list, nodding to Aiden. "No one is in town for the moment, and those who RSVP'd are expected the night before the Summit begins. I'm sure fellow Kindred clan members may show up early, especially the Primogens and the some of the Praetors they report to. I'd be surprised if anyone snubbed the invite, as it is seen as a badge of honor in many unholy circles."Scarlet frowned and then suddenly glanced at her watch. "Shit. Lunch should have been here by now. Myrine, I invite you to our den for this evening. The beds are fairly comfortable here if you'd like to stay for the day! However, we will need your final decision (and signature) at sundown, so you can think about it."
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Post by Myrine Leventis on Aug 4, 2021 21:51:25 GMT -5
Myrine couldn't help but chuckle lightly at Scarlet's last remark.
"I would be happy to look over this document. Once you provide it to me."
She'd glance over to Scarlet after the snide remark, finally taking a moment to look over the waif of a woman. Toreador. This certainly didn't surprise her knowing Aiden's fondness for the clan. A clan of lushes and do nothings good at nothing but causing drama in her opinion. Not that she needed to voice the opinion mind you, especially if she had to work with her.
"An oversight. I'm sure. With how busy you seem to be."
Assuming by Scarlet's reaction to the time this meeting was over. Fair enough. What more needed to be said. As a gesture of politeness she'd motion towards the door for the secretary to move ahead of her before turning to Aiden with a dip of her head.
"I appreciate the consideration for this opportunity, my Prince."
A slight bow perhaps, a mark of her age as she was much older than the city leader. How much older, she'd never say, though one had to wonder given the temperament of this Brujah didn't quite match those of her fellow clan members.
Myrine took a step back and turned towards the door, pulling it open with ease to lay eyes upon Elise, leaning against Scarlet's desk. Aiden's hunter would give Elise a cool nod in greeting. It had been some time since she had ran into the aristocratic clan representative of the Ventrue. It was apparent Aiden was pulling out all the stops for this party.
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Post by Marlowe Rodrick on Aug 5, 2021 13:55:25 GMT -5
~Outside of Forest Tower, 1st floor - - - "Rabbit's Revenge", popular nightclub.
Marlowe adjusted his bandages as he hung out right outside of the club. He had been staking the place for weeks... every night, Aiden would make an appearance. He couldn't approach him directly. Too many witnesses. The prince of LA had a entourage of handsome bro dudes and women. Ah. Those were some beauties. None of those people would even acknowledge him. As he crouched in the darkened alleyway, he winced under the neon lights, and moved his dark spectacles while pulling a wide brimmed hat down. He could pass as a burn victim. The VA hospital was only a few blocks down, and he could make a another quick sign to blend in with the rest of the homeless.
Who was he kidding? Maybe these bastards didn't care. He felt like he shouldn't even be there. What could he do? If he texted or called, nobody would believe a Nosferatu Prince would even set foot in California, let alone shy away from the isolated state of Alaska. Nobody would fall for this getup, either, even if he was at least somewhat tolerable to look at. He could have been a roguish model if not for the natural scars covering most of his face. These pompous asshats hadn't seen a Nosferatu in decades, so they'd probably wouldn't recognize one if it bit em', pun intended.
"Hah." He fake laughed. He told jokes now.
The Nosferatu wore a large trench coat and all of his exposed skin was covered in bandages. He had thick black sunglasses and carried a sign that marked him blind. He wasn't, but he carried a foldable cane anyway to try and look the part. He was glued to this place until the day before the Summit. If he could just get that damned admin woman away from Aiden, perhaps he could show his validity. She hadn't believed him when he tried to RSVP in person, so he was unable to sign in without identification. Since when did a kindred need ID? He travelled by train most of the time, like he always did since the 1870's. He had never owned a car.
He glanced around without turning his head, just to watch a young vampire step out of one of those contraptions and into the main entrance of Forest Tower. She was Kindred. He knew it by the grace of her movement. He studied her for a few moments, and watched her interactions with the driver.
"Hm. Heffen't seen you beforre... could be mine ticket inne." His voice was quiet, but deep as he mumbled. Marlowe's accent was muddled and undiscernible.
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Post by Rory Connoly on Aug 6, 2021 17:51:44 GMT -5
He would lean into Ariel's cool lips. If he actually had to breathe it might have caught in his throat. He was simply intoxicated by her - she was the only other creature on the planet he actually cared for. Sure, he had friends, but all was fair game to the Ravnos. Ariel was the only one he wouldn't sell if the price was right or ignore if he had no stake in the game. She was his weakness - the only pattern he had that could be predicted and the only one who made his unlife actually mean anything. As she pulled away, his eyes remained closed for a brief moment, then opened with a light shine of what might be percieved as true happiness. It was gone in a flash as his mirthful, devious twinkle returned. He would slip the rose into her hands gently, lifting his palms to show them empty. Snapping his fingers, closing his right hand, he opened it again and with his masterful sleight of hand, a live rose bloom appeared. Slipping it gently into her hair, the Irishman grinned.
"Aye Love, fer sure ah'm interested'n comin' inside if'n ye'll 'ave me. Suren ye know there's nary a place ah'd rather pass m'time tha'by yer side lass. 'Ow's a lad tae 'ave nary an'interest in anythin' save you after a peck li'tha?"
He would slip his arm into hers turning to escort her back towards her house. He'd let her lead, as he knew how particular she was about guests in her home. His phone would buzz, and with a smooth motion he'd retrieve it with a chuckle as he read Clara's note.
"Y'remember Clara, aye? She sends her best and 'opes t'see ye a'tha conference. Suren I'd nae b'goin' weren't it fer showin' ye a good time an' the possibility of catchin' sight o'Bertie an'Ivan again. Speakin' o'which, did y'need me tae arrange a truck f'y'things? Mebbe buy ye a'ouse there f'th'stay? I'd nae make y'stay inna 'otel. I ken how much y'love y'privacy! Ah'm sure Aiden w'allow it!"
His eyes would sparkle merrily as he looked to her. The thought of a night away from Seattle with her was a slice of heaven to him. He couldn't help but dote on her endlessly, though he tried not to smother her too much. He simply couldn't help himself when it came to her.
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