To new beginnings... (invite)

[Trahir Trahison]

-The following transcript was a live chat roleplay--
Velveteen Vel hadn't been paying too much attention to the time so was running a little late and not at all surprised to find Trahir and the woman she assumed to be Corentine waiting outside when she arrived. "Sorry guys. I had expected to be here a little earlier but...I am just never on time. " She pushed the key into the old lock and turned it before swinging the old wooden door open. It creaked on its hinges under the strain and holding it open she allowed the pair to enter ahead of her.

Trahir Trahir approaches the boat for the second time tonight. His outfit is different than earlier, he favors a grey business suit over a royal blue shirt without a tie, the top two buttons undone. His black dress shoes make no sound on the wooden dock beneath his feet as he escorts Corentine to meet the leaders of Tytonidae. He glances at her to see how she is holding up and guides her over to where Velveteen stands. Passing through the gate he gives a small smile and a nod of appreciation. "Thank you for having us."

Corentine Cori had been thinking about this meeting for the past few days. Possibly overthinking it, as she always does. Trahir had purchased her a strapless black dress, which hit right above the knee...for the occasion. Cori, of course, selected to wear her black strappy heels as they made her feel comfortable. Cori stood as close to Trahir as she could without it being awkward and watched the woman closely as she unlocked the door. "Thank you for having us. Reiterating exactly what Trahir had just said.

Velveteen "Not at all. I have been looking forward to meeting you." She said with a smile as she dipped her head towards the woman. "Trahir speaks of you quite often." She couldn't help but feel slightly under dressed in her leathers at present but the woman very rarely 'dressed up' unless for something formal. "Micah shant be far away. He is usually later than myself to most things. Come in..grab a seat."

Trahir "Merci, I brought wine." he says as he motions Corentine forward toward Velveteen. "Velveteen, may I present Corentine Ann, Childe of Jon Masterson, Grand-childe of Trahir Trahison of the Quartermaine line. Corentine, this is Velveteen, Second generation vampire, Head of the Andras lineage, Leader of the Tytonidae faction, Childe of Zachariah Staus." He steps to the side at that giving the ladies some space.

Corentine Cori outstretches her hand to Velveteen, "It is a pleasure to meet you. Cori says with a smile ensuring that she makes eye contact with Velveteen. "It does seem that Trahir knows more about my lineage, than I do. Cori says with a small laugh.

Velveteen She dipped her head a little to hide the smirk at the formality made during the introductions and cleared her throat to stifle the quiet chuckle as she took the others hand and gave it a cordial squeeze and shake. 'It is a pleasure to meet you as well Corentine. And...Yeah. I have no contact with the one who made me in several years so you can forget that bit."

Micah Micah had gotten stuck at Masterpiece, making him late. He'd sent Vel a message letting her know what was going on then finished what he was doing. When he got to the boathouse, everyone was already there so he quietly closed the door and moved to stand with his wife. "Sorry Im late."

Trahir Trahir steps forward and hands Velveteen the aforementioned bottle. "They tell me it's infant's blood. I wasn't there when they bottled it but I have had the same before, very clean tasting. Corentine, this is Micah, 3rd generation vampire, Head of the Andras lineage, Leader of the Tytonidae faction. Micah and Velveteen are bonded. Micah, This is Corentine Ann." He finishes up the lineage spiel once more and again steps back.

Velveteen Velveteen smiles at her husband and shakes her head. "Nah we just got here babe, not that late." She took the bottle from Trahir and wrinkled her nose a little. "Thank you...Trahir though it was completely unnecessary." She eyed the bottle and wondered if she should set it down or offer a glass and suddenly wondered why she felt was in the scene of some Dracula movie. Infant blood? What?. "One of Ari's I see. I have heard her selections are rather...popular."

Corentine Cori tries not to laugh at Trahir he does enjoy the formality of introductions. Cori stands to greet the gentleman that walked in. "It is a pleasure to meet you. Thank you for having me and for such a warm welcome. As Cori speaks, she is analyzing the proximity of her chair to the door, obstacles Cori tried to absorb everything.

Micah Micah slid an arm around his wife's waist and managed a slight smile and nod in the woman's direction. "S'nice to meet you as well."

Velveteen "Why don't we go up onto the ship. I will get some glasses and we can try this....stuff." She said holding up the bottle, still a little sceptical of its contents.

Trahir Trahir gives a small smile, holds out his arm to Corentine and nods. "Sounds delightful. It's been too long since I've felt a deck under my feet."

Velveteen She smiled at the familiar feel of her husband pressed to her side and was reluctant to leave it in search of glasses. "Take them up please Babe." Hands him the bottle. "I will get those glasses."

Corentine Cori smiles and waits to follow Trahir's lead. All she can think of at the moment, is infant's blood? You cannot be serious.

Micah Micah nodded, bending down to brush a kiss to her cheek as he took the bottle from her hands. "Don't be long." He nodded at Corentine and Trahir. "This way." He headed north, towards the plank that would take them aboard the ship.

Trahir Trahir follows Micah up on board with Corentine in tow, guiding her up the gangway to avoid any issues with her heels catching her up on anything. As they walk he motions to little details on the vessel itself, not saying anything, but his appreciation of the work apparent.

Corentine As Cori follows Trahir, she began to ponder. These two vampires, they have something a very strong bond. Trahir had spoken of vampires bonding but Cori did not know if it was marriage or something more. Cori felt their bond, it was quite evident and exceptionally strong.

Velveteen The vampiress smiled and as requested got the glasses and followed the small group up onto the deck, automatically finding her place back at her husband's side. She handed both Trahir and Corentine a glass and help Micah's for him. "I am pretty sure Ari once told me that the labels were more of a novelty than a fact. Or maybe that's just what I like to believe because ...I'm sorry. Virgin blood? Infant blood? Batshit crazy nun blood? Just...weird."

Micah Micah laughed. "Good thing she don't offer cougar blood. I'd buy her entire stock." He'd never opened a bottle like this before. His daughter had gotten him a bottle awhile back but it still sat on a shelf somewhere unopened. Finally he managed and started by pouring a bit into the glasses Vel was holding.

Corentine Cori laughs then realizes maybe she shouldn't have. She does wonder if Nun blood would have a different taste.

Trahir Trahir watches the couple. The way they move instantly back to each other like a rubber band stretched too far, snapping back to its initial shape. He finds himself missing that connection he had in life though it seems to him that this bonding may be even more potent for all the stock humans put in love. He pulls out Cori's chair for her before seating himself. "I prefer the blood of a sociopath personally though lover's blood is pleasing to the palate. I figured that this would be pure. Appeal to everyone perhaps."

Corentine Cori follows Trahir's lead, once again and takes the seat. She knows this is important to him " Thank you Trahir, what a gentleman you are. Cori wonders if anyone sees her small smirk as it crosses her lips

Velveteen "Pfft. No you wouldn't. Only one cougar you be drinking from Husband." She said with a look that was both cautionary and playful and then chuckles. "I honestly can't say that I have become that much of a connoisseur. I tend to take what I need to survive for the most part and drink it socially..." Hold up her current glass to demonstrate. "Because I can't drink anything else. Obviously our human natures are still very much ingrained in us for us to desire to partake in social trivialities." The woman grinned a little and rose her glass a little higher.

Trahir He raises his own glass, waiting perhaps for a toast.

Corentine Cori is wary about drinking the blood of an infant...just the thought makes her stomach churn a bit. Typical of Trahir to bring something like this Cori reaches for her glass and once again mimics Trahir's movements.

Micah Micah added some of the blood to the other two glasses and placed the bottle on a table. "Yes wife, you're the only cougar for me." He gave her one of those grins that she liked so much and took his own glass from Vel's hand.

[Velveteen]

-The following transcript was a live chat roleplay--

Velveteen Velveteen’s hip bumped the husband. Now was not the time to be smiling at her like that. They had only just arrived. "To....new acquaintances and that the hope that what we are about to drink is not what we think it is."

Trahir "To new acquaintances, remembering enough of what made us human that what we are about to drink can still bother us, and our host and hostess." He looks directly at Corentine as he raises the glass to his lips and drinks deeply.

Corentine If Cori's eyes could shoot lasers, they would hit him right between the eyes. Cori is aware of his reasoning for bringing this vintage well aware. " Cheers, Cori says with the largest smile she can produce at the moment.

Micah Micah was shameless and he didn't care who knew it. He shot his wife a none too subtle wink and tipped his glass. "Cheers y'all."

Velveteen Vel grinned at her husband, shaking her head a little as she took a sip , allowing the crimson fluid to glide smoothly along her tongue. "Yep...it's blood. Could have come from a bored old housewife for all I know." She smirked and leaned up against the wooden railing. "So how are you doing anyways, Corentine....with....everything? I believe Trahir has been your guide thus far?"

Trahir Setting his glass down he gives a smile back to Corentine. One sip of wine in and what Trahir considers a bombshell has been dropped.

Corentine " I am doing as well as expected, Velveteen. Trahir has been a great help, as my current sire is uh, less than helpful. Cori waited until both her hosts had sipped the vintage before she put the glass to her lips...Cori drank and drank it all. When she was done, she placed the glass in close proximity to Trahir's and stared directly at him... She wanted him to know that she was neither afraid nor hesitant to do what she must she would not fail any test given to her.

Micah Micah was quiet. He didn't do well in social situations and because he didn't, he usually stayed quiet unless he heard something he had an opinion on. He was better at one on one things but was trying to do better.

Velveteen She nodded as she listened. as she naturally seemed to gravitate towards and lean into the familiar form of her husband. "Negligent sires are all too common unfortunately. But then those of us who are left to learn on our own tend to become stronger for it I think. Though a guiding hand or friend is always helpful too. I do commend you both for having been able to achieve what you have without any real guidance. Many in those instances have become acquainted with shadow realm far too early."

Trahir Carefully Trahir adds in,"Not entirely by ourselves, Micah's advice to discard my books combined with your tutelage has helped immensely, it's still very much all very new though. We are learning what we can as quickly as possible."

Corentine " Thank you for that compliment, I do appreciate it. Cori wonders why so many sire a childe then then become absentee it seems as though it is prevalent. Cori doesn't want to blurt out that she resents her sire and feels as though he is a lesser being that may not be appropriate for this meeting

Micah "As I said earlier I'm glad you've decided to discard them. You have a much better source of information around you now."

Velveteen Vel nodded at Micah's words though her expression grew somewhat thoughtful. "You do. You both do....should you wish it of course." She spoke directing her gaze towards Corentine. "Though even we don't know the half of it to be honest. We have learned what we know through experience. A little from the elders, more from the ancient wraiths, but there are still so many things unanswered. Things we just have ...accept for now."

Trahir Trahir nods in agreement with Micah and listens to what Velveteen says. He picks up his glass, draining the rest of the contents and letting it wash over his tongue, savoring it, swallows it down and sets the glass to the side. "Am I to proceed with finding out what I can in the quarantine zone?" Now seemed as good a time as any to ask. "The human living there?"

Corentine Velveteens words resonated with Cori they made her feel comfortable. Why wouldn't they? She, surely experienced many of the things Cori has when she was newly turned "I am learning to accept things, Velveteen things are as they are. I do my best to listen and learn, basically absorb everything that comes my way. Trahir, can you please hold off on business, for now? Cori had questions for these two elders things that Trahir cannot answer. If I may, could you please explain to be vampire bonding? I see you and Micah and I sense that a vampire union is so much more than I had thought.

Micah Micah hesitated and looked to Vel. "You'll have to forgive me. I'm not very good at wording things properly. I struggle with it, so I'm going to leave this one to my wife to explain in depth. Though I can say it's much different that say a human marriage."

Velveteen She looked to Trahir and felt a little awkward in letting his question go for the time but the looks she gave said they would get back to it as she proceeded to answer Corentine as best as she could. "The bonding ritual seems to affect different couples in different ways. I have noticed quite a few be all happy and **** and then as soon as they undergo the ritual tend to turn on each other and the relationship soon disintegrates. I have come to believe and...this is merely observation mind you that ...perhaps the ritual somehow has a way of enhancing that which is truly in your heart. If your love is true it makes you stronger when you are together. Puts you both on a singular path but if your passion isn't true...it works against you and brings to the forefront what is truly in your heart." ...she shrugged and looked down at the glass and the red fluid that swirled thickly within. "Again those are just my observations but for us...from the moment the ritual was complete we could feel a certain change. An almost tangible shift in the air when we stood together and when we were apart. It makes no real logical sense but then...very little does these nights."

Trahir He sits silently for the moment. he is absorbing what was just said obviously. The look of his face is thoughtful, maybe with a hint of sadness. He visually shakes it off and mumbles an apology. "What about separating your blood from that of your lineage?"

Velveteen "We have both done that actually." Looks to Micah. "There are certain....powers and boons a sire can gain or use against their childe. The disenthrallment ritual can sever those ties."

Corentine " Thank you kindly for your genuine reply. It seems that a union amplifies that which is already there that which may lie dormant in your soul. Cori does sense a closeness with these two elders,that she has not seen since she was in the company of her parents. A true and genuine love unable to be broken. "Do either of you have questions for me? Consider me an open book”

Trahir Trahir brings his hands up to his chin, steepling his fingers and sitting quietly for the moment. He glances at Corentine an instant as she offers to answer questions. Obviously she hasn't been on the Bridge he thinks to himself.

Velveteen Corentine's words made Velveteen smile and she bobbed her head in full agreement. "No need to thank us...one thing you will find with us both. If you ask a question you will get a truthful answer. Whether or not you like it.....is not our problem." She shrugged a little and a small apologetic smile nestled on her lips. "That....was not meant as curtly as it sounded. Sorry."

Micah Micah chuckled. "She's just blunt. My wife isn't one to curb her tongue or hold her opinions to spare your feelings. Neither am I. We'll give the truth to you, because it’s better to be honest than try and blow smoke up your ***."

Corentine " It was not taken as such". Cori smiled a soft smile at Velveteen. " Trahir may not like this, but I am blunt as well..brutally honest. Sometimes to a fault".

Trahir "You're not generous enough my dearest Corentine... Oftentimes would be more apt a term."

Corentine Cori gave a look to Trahir..one of THOSE looks.

[Micah]

-The following transcript was a live chat roleplay--

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Velveteen She smiled and nodded at Micah. "Yes...that." A soft laugh followed and she once again she listened, a single brow quirking ever so slightly. "I think....as humans it was expected. We did what we had to do to succeed and if that required blowing smoke up ones *** to do so then we did it.....but none of that is really necessary anymore. I have always preferred honesty myself. And if I don't like a person I can respect them for at least being honest and true to themselves. It's funny really. How much things have changed and how much they haven’t."

Corentine Cori thought for a moment. She was never one to front, never one to hold back. At times this could be construed as a flaw other times, a great strength. "I find that honesty is always the way to go. I was brutally honest as a human and have not changed since being turned. Cori knows that at times, her honesty got her in trouble that shutting her mouth was best, in that moment. She wonders if now, one of those times is.

Trahir Ignoring the gaze he knows has been leveled at him he again falls silent, tracing the rim of his glass with his index finger, a habit he has when thinking things through.He looks over to Micah and asks,quietly in a hushed tone "What would a disenthrallment ritual entail exactly?"

Velveteen "Well..others might not but I like that very much respect that Corentine. Though I do know from experience..such honestly can get you in more trouble than anticipate sometimes. Isn't that right Husband?"

Micah Micah nodded. "Yes." He turned his gaze to Trahir. "Depends on what you're askin. You askin bout the cost?"

Trahir Trahir nods. "The cost for two actually.."

Corentine Cori knows all too well what trouble it can get her into. "Trahir has been helping me to curb my need to be blunt...he is sort of my walking, talking filter. Did Cori really say that damn it will feed his ego...damn it.

Micah Micah looked to Vel. "It's....not cheap. Very select few have the tome outside of the faction. Normally a single disenthrallment would cost about 125k."

Velveteen Velveteen appeared to be thinking and caught Micah's look. She pulled herself upwards. "Ok look....there is something I have to...kinda confess. I am sure it is probably something Micah probably already knows even though I haven't yet discussed it with him either."

Micah Micah nodded. He knew her well and knew exactly where her mind was.

Trahir The finger stops circling the glass and he places his hands in front of him, sitting up and leaning forward, fingers interlaced as he listens.

Corentine Cori listens attentively.

Velveteen "Well..a big part of the reason that I wanted to meet you Corentine was because of what I had been considering. And it is probably a good as time as any to bring it up...with us all here. Though I haven't known Trahir very long at all....what? Two weeks maybe? I have found we have developed a sort of connection and that isnt something that happens easily for me. That you guys are at loose ends family wise and that his own sire has been blatantly remiss in showing any sort of responsibility towards what he has created I was wondering if, trahir you would be adverse to allowing me to step in as your sire rolemodel person and if maybe you guys would like to become a part of our family." She gave her husband a hopeful look and hoped that he would be ok with this as well, though the pair did tend to support each other such things, good and bad. "What do you think?"

Corentine Cori wants to muzzle herself, but cannot. " So what does that mean exactly? I am so really new to this whole sire thing. Would Revelation still be my sire...would I have to deal with him." Cori sees this as an opportunity to free herself from the babbling idiot..that coupled with the opportunity to learn so much more about this new world that she was forced into.

Micah Micah smiled at her fondly and brushed a kiss to her temple, telling her without words that he understood and approved of her decision.

Trahir "If both you and Micah are in agreement it would be an honor." Glancing to Corentine, to her outburst of questions he drums the fingers on one hand on the table. Just once.

Corentine Cori senses Trahir's frustration...a muzzle might have been best.

Velveteen Vel smiled and nodded, turning her head slightly into the soft kiss brushed across her temple. "It seems we are." Her arm curled in behind him as she tucked herself under his arm. "And thank you Trahir. I will do all in my power to make this a decision you wont regret and what it means for you Corentine is...pretty much whatever you would like it to mean. If you disenthrall from him you are free to make your own choices or decisions. But we offer a rather extensive line, of varying personalities and ages. Protection and just...really a place for you to guys call home and know that you aren't and don't have to be alone anymore.There are others there just like you guys that we have adopted into the family as well.”

Micah Micah adds “And, as you're both family now there is no charge for the disenthrallment ritual.”

Velveteen She smiled broadly, her fingers curling into his hip in a silent thank you.

Corentine Cori feels like her wishes have been granted. That what she has sought, has now been found. To not be alone to be part of something. Just a few nights ago she was missing those bonds that sense of family, that closeness now it is being offered to them, her and Trahir it was what Cori was searching for, it was the completion of the proverbial circle. What is more apparent, is this is what Trahir wants it is why he has had his head in his phone, on his computer...for nights on end. He is getting what he wants and in turn, she is given a piece of that.. a feeling of happiness, as he is given what he has desired.

Trahir "I don't believe it is a decision which I could ever regret. Since this new life you and Corentine have been my line to sanity. You have gotten me through some things that neither of you know you have done. Micah has taught me that I need to rely on others and in truth I did need that lesson as I would have slid into isolationism." He glances to Corentine.

Corentine Cori feels him... she never has completely, but now..she does. " I would be honored to be a part of your family... and honored cannot even encapsulate how I feel. "

Velveteen "Isolation is good in measured doses doses sometimes needed but like any creature we are stronger in a pack. Having that bit extra support is never a bad thing." She grinned cheekily and gave the pair a playful look. "We will see about the honoured thing. You haven't met the the rest of them yet. But all kidding aside...Thank you..both of you. I have a really good feeling about this. And you too Babe. Pretty sure you knew before I said anything. You know me too well."

Trahir Trahir, as usual retains the classic British stoicism of days long past. Inside his mind, things are racing. His feelings, elation, gratitude, happiness, loyalty, respect, none of that shows on his face. If anything these things show it is through the immediate reversion back to formality, he raises and gives a rigid bow. "Thank you sire. thank you Micah, I will do everything in my power to make sure you never regret or doubt this decision. My doors are open to you both though the abodes may be humble they are open to you both."

Corentine Damn him and his formal speak.

Micah “Vel will get y'all added to the family forum. Take a look around, introduce yourselves, ask questions - don't be afraid to reach out. And we'll make sure you have access to the hotel though it's easier to have a tome in.”

Velveteen “The hotel is the family....home I suppose. It is way out in the wilderness. But we have everything there you could possibly need as well as portals to most parts of the city. As Micah said tomes make it way easier...so he would have to make those for you both if you would like?"

Corentine Cori realizes that she is new to all of this..." I may have many questions, i am quite new to this new life."

Trahir Trahir is familiar with fade portals, but this talk of a tome... that catches his attention. "Where would I acquire a tome for this purpose?"

Micah “I make them.”

Corentine " I have no clue what that even means".

Velveteen Velveteen laughed, pleased by the reactions and enthusiasm. "Ask away Corentine. If we can't answer your questions I bet we know someone that could. You are going to have to explain Babe."

Corentine " Trahir likes to play the smart one".

[Corentine (DELETED 6472)]

-The following transcript was a live chat roleplay--



Micah “A tome is...well. A magical book. Its bound to a location and all you have to do is open it up and it will take you to its bound location.”

Velveteen "It is like teleporting."

Trahir "Vampire magic Corentine. Portals that link one spot to another through the spirit realm, perhaps the shadow realm. Maybe through powers stolen from the Fae of old."

Corentine " Thank you Velveteen". Cori glares at Trahir.

Trahir He looks to both Velveteen and Micah suddenly as a thought occurs "The illuminated texts... are they ancient or modern?"

Micah Micah blinked. "The what?"

Corentine " I will ask questions as they come to me, I am most grateful for the assist."

Trahir "I found a copy of a religious text on the street. The illuminated text is was entitled. Spoke of vampire gods."

Velveteen "Like a shortcut. Your tome will get you across the city to a specifc place in less than a blink of an eye and you will expend no energy. Portals a similar but are not portable. They are like a door except on this side you could be in your apartment..step through and you are across the city in the quarantine zone....* snaps her thumb and forefinger* Just like that.

Corentine " Can I be blunt?"

Velveteen Vel burst out laughing. "Aren't those Pratt's babblings Babe? And of course Corentine."

Corentine " Thank you... Trahir, at times..confuses me with all his big words and such"

Micah Micah looks to Trahir, “Did they mention Muga?”

Trahir Trahir relaxes visibly. Obviously it's a great comfort for him to know they have the same view of the pseudo-religious prattle the volume had contained.

Corentine " As i said, I am so very new to all of this...and would just appreciate blunt.”

Trahir Trahir nods to Micah. “Yes, they did.”

Micah Micah cracked the **** up. "Dude. Throw that **** in the trash. It is all nothing but a bunch of made up ******** by a wannabe cult leader."

Trahir "I actually already did. I was worried for an instant that that was actually taken seriously."

Velveteen Vel laughed. "Blunt I can do and please..if ever something is said that you don't quite understand, please ask for clarification. It is better that you ask and know than don't and try and guess." She pauses for an instant and then asks, "So would you guys like tomes? There are shops, rituals altars, an ATM and whatever else you could or might need on a nightly basis there in one place for you to sell your stuff off or just simply do your banking safely. Then take a portal back to the city or hang out there. Completely up to you guys."

Corentine Cori moves closer to Trahir...she wants to feel him. She knows that this is what he has been speaking about for weeks and is ecstatic over the fact that he got that which he desired. She is beyond jovial, he is where he wants to be and that makes her happy.

Trahir Trahir nonchalantly reaches out and without giving even a sideways glance takes Corentine's hand and gives it a light squeeze. "If it could be arranged, please. If we need to gather components for their creation we would be pleased to do so."

Corentine " Thank you, that would be fantastic". Cori thinks, why has she been so resistant to speaking to others..so reserved. These two elders are nothing short of fantastic.

Velveteen "I think we have everything needed. I usually leave the magic stuff to Micah. Though it is amazing to watch if you ever get the chance. He summons a demi fae and talks to it in fae and basically binds it to his will. They really don't like it and get quite pissed off about it." She pulls out her phone and swipes her finger across the screen, tapping here and there where necessary and within moments is tucking it away it again. "You guys have been granted access to the family crownet. Some you will already know, Trahir and many you won't. But the family is a much....different place to the faction so try not to hold anything against anyone."

Trahir "I won't. The Bridge to me is business. I don't see it at all as being personal, if it were to continue after the Bridge then I will try and smooth things over with anyone."

Corentine "Do I need to get a crownet handle, so to speak?"

Micah "No...handles aren't used on private forums."

Corentine " Also, do you both have any questions that you would like to ask me? Like I said, I am an open book."

Corentine " Thank you, Micah."

Trahir "If you don't have one you are simply posting as anonymous on the regular crownet forums."

Micah Micah shook his head. "Not right now I don't. That doesn't mean that I won't later though." He looks to Vel. "I'm going to need oil."

Corentine " I always welcome questions... Trahir asks me many."

Trahir Trahir glances to Corentine. "They actually mean it when they say that."

Velveteen "I have one. I am usually pretty curious about where people come from. Harper Rock seems to have attracted people from around the globe for reasons unknown to me. Are you local or did you travel here from elsewhere?" She thinks a moment "Mm Oil. I think I gave you what you what I had Hotstuff. But I can have a look."

Corentine Cori looks to Trahir.. giving him that look that says, go easy on me. I am new to this.

Micah Micah sent a text. A reply came a few minutes later. "Bunny says there is 17 in the lockbox. That should be enough to at least do the tomes. I'll need more for the disenthrallments."

Trahir Trahir pulls out his phone, punches in a few numbers.
Corentine " I traveled from Connecticut. I went to UConn, majored in law and minored in women's studies. I was a cheerleader and played the role that my parents had wished."

Velveteen "I checked my records and I have...one! Sorry babe."

Trahir “None on the auctions.”

Velveteen She looked a little surprised, having expected the woman to be a local for no real reason. "My US geography isn't all that great. I'm from Australia so we are pretty sheltered. What brought you to this godforsaken hell hole that we all call home?"

Trahir He drops his phone back into his pocket.

Corentine " My Mom is Canadian, I have dual citizenship. I wanted a change of scenery, and thought it best to find one here".

Velveteen "Well we can get the tomes done and work on the disenthrallments. Might have to do some break and entering Babe."

Corentine " Connecticut is very cookie cutter... I was searching for some excitement, maybe a new path in life. Harper's Rock seemed to be the place to find that."

Velveteen Velveteen laughed and bobbed her head. 'Well you certainly found something."

Corentine " Seems I surely did."

Velveteen "Everyone comes here via different means. Some ask for it...others don't. We all end up in the same place somehow but every journey is different. Every journey is personal. Some have it way easier than others in their ability to adjust. I never asked for it....but you have to play the cards you're dealt the best you can." She tugs on Micah's arm. "When did you want to do the tomes Babe? We could probably head over there now if you were up to it?"

Micah Micah says "Thats fine. Can you summon them in? I'm going to need you to summon me some spirits if you don't mind."

Corentine " I am actually very glad I came here. If I didn't i would not have met with Trahir, and in turn not have met both you and Micah. I consider it a win. This is what Trahir has wanted for a few, now. I am so very excited that he was afforded this opportunity and that I was also given this chance. I am most grateful for the opportunity you have afforded me and my grand sire...if that is even the proper term".

Velveteen "I am happy that we are the ones to be able to offer it to you both. Now....have you guys ever been summoned before? And of course I can do spirits for you Babe."

Corentine " I can say, that I have never been summoned. I can also say that Trahir has never been as well."

Velveteen Vel grins. "Then this should be interesting. Firstly you need to get it firmly in your mind that the person wishing to summon you is an ally."

Corentine " I will do as you instruct".

Velveteen "Excellent. Get ready!"

Corentine " Will there be fireworks?"

Velveteen "Not this time. But it's always a bit weird at first…”

[Corentine (DELETED 6472)]

A week or so later, in a small room in the Pandemonium Hotel

--The following transcript was a live chat roleplay--

Corentine A message was sent to Velveteen, asking if she had some time to devote to questions Cori had. Cori had a few pressing things that she would like clarified..appeasing her curiosity.

Velveteen After having received a text from the woman Velveteen made her way to the hotel where she found her husband, busy at the altar. Corentine hadn't arrived yet as far as she could tell so she amused herself by watching him command the demifae. She could watch that man forever and be content. Movement was caught in her peripheral and she smiled, giving the other woman her attention for now. "Corentine. It was nice to hear from you. How are you?"

Corentine Corentine smiles at Velveteen. " I am well, thank you. I appreciate you meeting me on such short notice."

Velveteen "No problem. I was just hanging taking care of some traps and such. It has been pretty quiet of late." She shrugged off her jacket and tossed it over the the surface of the service desk along with her gun and blade. None were needed here. "I am glad you called. It breaks the monotony."

Corentine "Could we sit for a moment? I have a few questions for you?” Cori was exhausted from a long day in the catacombs. Who knew that slaying zombies would be so laborious? That was the word for it "monotonous”.

Velveteen "Of course." The raven haired vampire moved off to one corner to take up residence on a red leather couch, a little away from the usual goings ons within the family lair. "Hopefully I shall have answers."

Corentine She followed Velveteen and moved to where there was seating arranged, out of the way of the commotion of the hotel… perfect. Assuring she sat in a locale that was directly across from the elder vampire. "I am sure you have some of the answers I need and can help to clarify some things that seems a bit confusing, as well. Could you suggest someone in the family that I could shadow, follow in a way. It would need to be one that has knowledge that I don't and can help me work my way around the city.” Cori sighed, "Trahir has been quite busy, as of late and my sire is not much of a teacher…so I come to you for a suggestion.”

Velveteen The woman hummed softly as she gave some thought to the question. "You mean a mentor of sorts? It's funny that you mention that. I was thinking just the other night that some sort of mentoring system within the family would be helpful, especially for the younger vampires , like yourself."

Corentine "Yes, that is exactly what I meant.” Cori has been given assist by Trahir, but most of her time is spent slaying zombies, getting stronger and getting closer to her goals.

Velveteen Velveteen tipped her head slightly as she silently appraised the woman, having forgotten what path she was on. "Mmm...Killer. Someone with the same abilities who has experienced things that will encounter would be best I think." Her brow furrowed a little as she tried to think of someone suitable for the task but was coming up short. "The only killer i know in the family that I would recommend for the task is Micah to be honest."

Corentine Cori tilted her head a little, her blonde hair falling into her face. "I am on the killer path, but hoping to head to necromancer. I am sure Micah has many things to do, none of which should include helping a noob vampire, such as myself.”

Velveteen Vel's brow rose a little at the information. "Well I am necromancer....I have bridged to killer. So information wise I can help." She tucked one leg up beneath her and leaned against the arm of the couch. "I must confess...I'm not at completely sure who all is what path anymore. But in general terms Helena is lovely, straight forward and can be very helpful. I think you two would get on rather well. My childe Remi would have been another good option but he has been awol now for some time. I would also volunteer myself but that doesn't help if you are looking to branch out and do a little networking either."

Corentine "I am really looking to branch out... and I am sure you, like Micah have your hands full.” Cori is looking for someone that can guide her, not be a babysitter. She certainly does not need one of those, she already has two. "Honestly, Velveteen… I am looking to meet others like myself that can assist with my daily boredom.” Cori realizes that she may have been too blunt, is what it is though.

Velveteen Velveteen chuckled and made a small tsking sound. 'Well that makes the task much easier. Yes...I think Helena would do nicely in that case. She is one of Micah's childer, has been around for quite some time now. She will call a spade a spade and won't blow smoke up your ***. But I like that in a person and I get the feeling it is something you also appreciate."

Corentine Corentine laughs and sits back on the couch, getting a tad more comfortable. "That would be great, I would love to meet another that has a similar persona to me. Anything you can do to help, would be fantastic.” Cori cannot help but smile… but just knowing that she may have someone to help her with the ins and outs of this city, well, makes her quite happy. "There are some other questions I have, off this subject, of course. Do you have time to entertain them?”

Velveteen Vel nodded as if to say of course as the other woman spoke and then chuckled at the last few words. "I think you have been spending too much time Trahir… his weird speech patterns are rubbing off on you but by all means. Ask away… Entertain." Vel wrinkled her nose a little and grinned at Corentine teasingly.

Corentine Cori smiled one of those smiles. "Maybe it is I who is rubbing off on him.” Cori pushed the thought of being compared to Trahir back into the depths of her head… she did not want to think about that tonight. "Tell me more about this bonding? I know Trahir broached it at the family meeting and it was met with some warnings from others. I am not sure if they knew to whom he referred, when he spoke of the bonding…” Cori shrugged her shoulders… "I would like to know what it means, what partaking in something like that means for a vampire?”

Velveteen Velveteen frowned and nodded as she listened and gave the question some serious thought. "It does come with warnings because very few who have bonded have actually lasted any length of time. The ritual is eternal....hence it being called and Eternal bonding. There are certain positive aspects but also some negatives should the worse happen. For one it makes near impossible for you to actually attacked your bonded partner. Which for some can be rather frustrating. Also if something happens and one or the other decide to sleep permanently or even worse, end their existence then you are left with the inability to ever bind to another. It imagine it is like the true essence that of what christians expected marriage to be...except without the spiritually binding aspects."

Corentine Cori reaches her hands up to her hair and slicks the pieces back into place that had fallen out. "I understand the premise of marriage… the conventional ones. Till death do you part and all that. I suppose it is taken to a new level when you are basically immortal.” Cori is not sure she wants to ask the next question… "You mentioned that it is possible for internal feelings, when bonded become heightened… do you think it is possible for latent hatred to come alive?”

Velveteen Velveteen nodded, her silver hues fixed on the woman across from her. 'As I said the other night I think that the problem with so many bondings falling apart. Unless your heart is true it allows for cracks to happen and like a leaky boat its only a matter of time before it sinks." Her head canted to the side curiously. "Though I am of course referring to those feelings directed at your partner. You have hatred for Trahir?" Velveteen had no real idea if that was too forward or not. Usually when something was on her mind she tended to just ask. Sometimes it got her into trouble.

Corentine Corentine smiles, once again. "I have many things inside this head of mine, most will never see the light of day… well, until they are brought out.” Cori wonders if she sounds, well... insane. Not her intent, whatsoever. "My hatred is for my sire… he is an idiot and weak. Trahir is a part of this, as he allowed my siring to occur.” Cori pauses, takes a deep breath… " I have many feelings for Trahir… hatred is not one of them. At times, it is misdirected... at times, my hatred for my sire manifests itself onto others… it's the way it is.”

[Velveteen]

--The following transcript was a live chat roleplay--
Velveteen The woman's head bobbed as she listened, waiting for the other to finish before interjecting with her own thoughts. "I don't see that as ever being problem and shouldn't be. Though I am curious...while you did not choose this life or death if you will, do you regret it happening? Are you... not wanting it still even now?"

Corentine "I have never strayed from any challenge, Velveteen. This is one of my greatest challenges to date. Did I want this? I certainly did not ask for it, but now that it IS my life, I will do what I must to survive and grow.” Cori's posture gets a bit stiffer… "What I want? I want it all… and have it tied in a neat package with a pretty bow.” With that Cori laughed and her posture became less rigid.

Velveteen Velveteen grinned a bit, her astute gaze taking everything in from facial expressions to posture. "You are immortal, whatever that means. You have powers, are stronger and will continue to grow and learn more in both areas. You have essentially been freed from the many restrictions of mortal life. You have someone who for all intents and purposes adores you and a new family to protect and help you. Why hate the man who gave you all of this?"

Corentine "It was a choice made by another and not me. I have no regret and find that a wasted emotion… BUT the choice was not mine.” Cori just is not getting what she wants, so far… or maybe, it is not happening as fast as she would prefer.

Velveteen "I can relate to that. The choice wasn't mine either however....when I look at everything gained from the deal, I have no complaints. And not even everything honestly....Just Micah. I would do it a million times over if I had to just to have met him." She smiled, a soft wistful smile that usually only appeared when speaking of her husband.

Corentine Cori feels something from Velveteen… it is that same feeling that she got when she saw her and Micah together. Not sure what to describe it as… not sure at all. "I know that I have gained much in a short time… I know that HE has helped me obtain this. Trahir, not Revelation… just saying.” Cori then got a mental image of Trahir and that look he had one night, when their conversation got a bit deep. "Trahir is one of the only reasons I have stuck around… he is sort of like that other voice. Sometimes you want to strangle it, but you cannot ever imagine it not being there.”

Velveteen Velveteen laughed nodded as she leaned forward, completely understanding that feeling. "I know exactly what you mean and don't you worry, Micah and I have gone at it more than a few times but everything that should destroy us tends to only just make us stronger. That I think is the true magick of the eternal bond." Just then Vel noticed movement on the stairs across the lobby and spied the woman they were speaking of earlier. "Hells....Come here, There is someone I want you to meet." Her voice not especially loud but easily heard across the room.

Corentine Corentine turns to see the woman who just walked into the hotel.

Helena Helena quirked an eyebrow at the woman's soft summons. She nodded her head and wandered over, blowing Vel a kiss, "She was at the little get together last time, ja?"

Velveteen "Yes, she was. Corentine, this is Helena, the one I was telling you about earlier. Hells this is Corentine." Velveteen shifted over to make room for the blonde and offered her to sit. "Corentine is new to....everything and she is looking to make acquaintances and well....someone she can harass with questions and such. I recommended you for the job if you were up for it?"

Corentine Cori smiles and reaches out her hand, " It is a pleasure to meet you, Helena."

Helena Hells pursed her lips at Vel's request until the girl offered her hand and a greeting. Hell took the hand and gave it a firm shake, "Very well. But I don't coddle. Are you alright with that, Corentine?" She let go to take the seat Vel had been offering her.

Corentine Cori laughed. " I do not want or need coddling. I am looking for someone to show me the ins and outs of the city... one who can be straightforward and blunt, like myself."

Helena Hells grinned slightly, eyeing Vel. "So you were talking about me, eh? All bad things, I'm sure. Be assured it's all true. I'll make you wish you were dead." A joke.

Corentine " Actually, I was quite excited to meet you, Helena."

Velveteen Velveteen smirked and sat back, allowing the two women to become better acquainted. She was already sure she had made the right choice until Hells spoke again and made her laugh. "Your bark is far worse than your bite… until deserved." A grin was granted to the blonde at her side before returning her gaze to the Corentine. "Straightforward and blunt she is but don't let her fool you. She is actually quite lovely."

Corentine "Until she doesn't want to be... I like that, immensely."

Helena Helena gaped a feigned offense at Vel's regards to her bark, "Woof." She folded her hands in her lap and eyed Corentine with clear, electric blue eyes, "In all honesty though. I'll get my number to you before I leave among other things. Do not fear asking me any questions you have because the only stupid question is an unasked one. Even if I am incapable of answering it myself I have found this family to be a place that even I feel slightly more willing to be less stubborn and rely on others. Though sometimes they make you let them spoil you." She once again eyed Vel, though this time in a playful glare. "Is there anything you would like to express about yourself?"

Velveteen Velveteen made a face at Helena and the spoiling comment though it was true to an extent, her husband and her didn't see it as spoiling as much as rewarding those that deserved it. She was however content to sit quiet and let the conversation happen around her for the moment.

Corentine "Thank you for that, i do appreciate it." Cori sat back and watched the two women. It was great to see the interaction between them..it is something that she did not realize she missed. Female bonding of sorts.

Helena Helena rose an eyebrow back due to the face Vel made. No faces should be made when it was the truth what she said. She made a motion like she'd pinch the other but quickly folded her hands back into her lap all neatly as if she had never even moved, "How much do you understand now?"

Corentine "I have been observing and taking mental notes... but most of my time is spent in the catacombs slaying zombies. I have gained a few powers and am working on my next path. As far as the inner working of vampire politics, I know only what Trahir has told me."

Helena "And from what I have seen, what he knows appears limited..."

Corentine Cori laughs, heartily. She knows she will like Helena, she likes her already.

Velveteen Velveteen smirks and shakes her head at the other's candour. "He will learn as well. That is something that Trahir and Corentine seem to share. A hunger for knowledge."

Helena "If she wants knowledge... Corentine, can you tell me the difference between obedience and being mindless? It might seem a silly question, but I'd like you to be perfectly aware, because I've noticed a few don't seem to realize the difference. Vel and Bamse do appreciate that we have our own minds, even when we don't agree with their opinions. We're just expected to stick to the laws they lay down that they find necessary. It is because they care for our protection."

Corentine "Obedience is the building block of any strong society. A group working towards a similar goal, given direction by a leader or leaders. That goal needs to be your own, as well… you need to buy into it and believe in it. Here is the largest difference between the two… being mindlessly obedient basically makes you a drone. One who has lost their own individuality at the expense of the "goal”. Mostly, drones are not aware of the goal nor do they have any thought on it. Their opinions are not their own, they have been basically assimilated. You can be obedient to a cause, to a leader and even to a family… but you still maintain your individuality.”

Velveteen Vel nodded and listened, curious as to the question Helena asked and why , though she was sure it would be known soon enough. She offered Corentine a smile however, impressed with how she answered it.

[Helena (DELETED 4251)]

--The following transcript was a live chat roleplay--
Helena Helena grins and nods, "We can work with this. Normally I'd charge you a date for babysitting fees, Vel. But she seems a bright girl. Keep that in mind, Corentine. This family is big, so there are a lot of fights. It might seem strenuous. And sometimes even like the roof and foundation is shaky. But if you've chosen us then don't do so half-heartedly, and likewise we will not treat you half-heartedly. I can quite honestly say I didn't understand 'family' until this one and personally I do not think you will regret it."

Corentine Cori smiled and nodded. Hoping that her body language showed both women that she was invested. " I can tell you both, that I am invested in this family… even though I am new and came, well by default. It is important to me to have a sense of family, as I did when I was human… family is what matters. As far as fights, I am sure I will partake in my share. But know, that I do so for a purpose... and never at the expense of another or the goal of the family.”

Velveteen "A what? A date? Not sure your sire would like that too much Hells but I must say...you are quite sexy when you start being all serious and ****." She chuckled softly and leaned back further into the soft yet aged leather. "Not by default at all Cori. 'Tis why I wanted to meet you. Not all the childer are taken in immediately when one is adopted into the line."

Corentine "I thank you for your welcome and the clarification.” Cori smiles, feeling better, much better about her place here. "Helena, what would you ask of me..your expectations?"

Helena "What I would expect of you would be quite simple as it is wrong to expect more than you yourself are worth. And I can't say I've done anything particularly wow-worthy. All I'd expect of you is to pick a goal for yourself and find your place in this family. I won't do all the work for you, but I will help you where I can and where I think you need it and I will direct you to my best of my ability. All I would ask is that if you seek my counsel you actually intend to hear it and are not just wanting to hear what you want to hear because I will not."

Corentine Corentine smiles... he is in the hotel, she senses him. " Velveteen, Trahir is here."

Helena "And of course, follow the rules which I will do my best to teach you."

Corentine "I can do that. I am not one for hand-outs..as the reward of doing things yourself is so much sweeter. All I ask is for some guidance."

Helena "Though hopefully the more important ones are obvious. Such as not drawing attention to yourself. "

Corentine "I learned that early on, for sure. Attention seeking is not what I do."

Helena "How well have you settled yourself in? Monetary-wise or weapon-wise?"

Velveteen Vel looks about for Trahir though expects he will make himself known known soon enough.

Corentine "I had both a melee weapon and a firearm, but Micah and Velveteen upgraded them for me. I work both the slums and caverns searching for items to sell. Currently I have many items to auction to boost my bank."

Helena "Alright. It won't be much, but I am going to give you a little money to make sure. The most sure fire way of not getting caught drinking blood, unless you're like myself is to drink from a blood bath."

Trahir Trahison Trahir appears in the hotel holding his tomb. Blood stains the front of a white tank top covered by a leather jacket. His leather pants show scuffs, signs of a struggle and his jacket too has shredded sections to it. His hair hangs loose and disheveled but he looks pretty much intact otherwise. The dagger, Nancy is stained with gore and the scent of cordite from the gun given to him by his sire permeates the air around him. All in all a very different Trahir than is normal.

Helena "Will you be a good girl and accept it?"

Velveteen Velveteen cracks up and looks at Helena oddly. "Were you by chance a school teacher in your previous life, woman?"

Corentine "Actually, I will respectfully say no. I do not drink from humans, on the regular and have enough money to support my feeding, by purchasing blood bags." Corentine smiles... " Hello, Trahir.. why don't you come join us."

Helena twitched a grin at Vel, "No. Before I was old enough to take job-jobs, I took tutoring jobs." She then nodded to Corentine, "If you're sure." She wouldn't press it if the woman did not want considering she fought with Bamse over such things.

Trahir Trahison Trahir glances to Corentine before tearing his gaze away to look to Helena and Velveteen. "My sire." he says with a bow to her. "Miss Helena, nice to see you again," this said with an inclination of his head in her direction. He moves to Corentine without a word, nodding to her as he approaches.

Helena Helena nodded her head back to Trahir, "Helena. I am not a Lady or a Miss. So just Helena or any nickname thereof."

Velveteen "Trahir. Looks like your evening has been eventful." Velveteen simply nodded as she absorbed Hell's words. Yeah she could see that.

Corentine "Helena, trust that I know how not to be noticed. I understand some of the masquerade... people want to kill us, I must not allow them to know of my presence or else they will. This is why I avoid drinking from humans.." Corentine moves over a bit so that Trahir can sit beside her.

Helena She nodded to Corentine. Though her eyes were still focused on Trahir for a moment before she decided he wouldn't die. She got up to pace around before turning to stare at Corentine, "Do you have any particular talents you hope to expand on?"

Trahir Trahison "Yes... Ferals and Ancient Zombies, Mooncalfs and a particularly nasty encounter with a fade beast that didn't quite go as anticipated." He stands next to Corentine and simply reaches down to squeeze her shoulder lightly. "I don't wish to ruin the upholstery."

Corentine "Actually, I am working on my various my skills with a firearm...new techniques and such. I have been practicing on zombies, as of late."

Velveteen Velveteen motioned for Trahir to sit. Leather...it washed off.

Helena "But other than fighting. Is there anything? Rituals or perhaps making the weapons? Or maybe owning your own business? "

Corentine "Not yet, but I am working on metal-working and breaking and entering. I do find the act of robbing, interesting."

Helena "There are varying talents in this family. My own path being after the Rituals which while I would not claim to be a pro, Bamse and Vel have both helped me immensely on because it was something I decided I wanted to do."

Trahir Trahison Trahir glances at the upright Helena a moment and then moves to the couch at his sire's behest. He takes a seat after sheathing his dagger in a sheathe under the cuff of his jacket, taking the proffered spot next to Corentine.

Helena "Metal work is good sturdy work. Robbery is also a good one. Well, not good in the sense of decency, but usefulness."

Corentine "Robbing serves a purpose. i will not make it my goal, it is merely something to help me get to said goal."

Corentine Cori looks at Trahir..he is well, gross. She wants to tell him to go and shower..but instead, takes his hand in hers.

Trahir Trahison gives Corentine's hand a squeeze. He is well aware that she knows he will grill her on the events of the evening, who asked what, what all the answers were. How she comports herself being a source of pride for him is in a weird way an integral part of the dynamics of their relationship.

Helena Helena nodded to Corentine, "Do you find any enjoyment out of Metalwork?"

Corentine "I actually do... creating something from many pieces, then seeing what you have created handed to another to help assist them. It gives a sense of pride to me.."

Velveteen "I am thinking of trying my hand at metal working once I have mastered the guns actually."

Helena clasped one hand around the other wrist behind her back as she went back to her pacing, "That's a good thing then. That might be what to look into. We do have some metal smiths, don't we, Vel? But the choice has to be yours because the work and dedication put in will be yours." She eyed Vel and chuckled, "You have your hands in everything."

[Trahir Trahison]

--The following transcript was a live chat roleplay--
Corentine "But of course, Helena. If one is not invested in their craft, it surely will show in their workmanship and dedication to that craft."

Velveteen Vel shrugged and grinned a little. "I try to. What I can't do Micah can. Between us we pretty much got it covered."

Trahir Trahison "You shouldn't have to cover everything. Once I've mastered my true love I will be able to aid in filling at least one gap my sire.""

Helena Helena nodded to Corentine and smiled before sticking her tongue out at Vel, playfully, "Well excuse me for being so focused on my gun-work and rituals." She teased. She turned her attention back to Corentine finally, "I, personally, am not in any know of the art of metal-work. But I'll bet I could have some books shipped over from my homelands and transcribe them that might be informative? Among poking at our family for their guidance."

Velveteen "Any and all help is appreciated Trahir. I can't help it though...it's just me. Micah tells me the same thing all the time too."

Corentine "Can I ask where your homeland is? I do thank you, most graciously, for the offer, I am sure that it will be most beneficial in my education." With that she turns to Trahir..giving him that look..that you need to take it down a notch look.

Trahir Trahison "With all due respect, Micah should be able to take a breather every now and then as well. I've been trying to help with the acquisition of some of the needed items but it doesn't feel like enough really."

Helena Helena grinned, "I am from Denmark. You know. The Nords. Vikings. Weapons and pillaging and plundering and war-mongering. We are sure to have some good things about Metalsmithing."

Corentine Corentine's posture becomes more rigid... this evening is about her, why does he always turn it to be something of his. " That is very interesting, maybe one day you can tell me about your homeland.. I have always been intrigued by war."

Trahir Trahison "The Danish are known ever today for some of the best steelwork in the world. They just got a project at one of the shipyards near Amsterdam to put a mid-body in while the vessel is still in the water using cofferdams. It's pretty amazing really." He trails off at the end because really... who cares?

Velveteen "Every little bit counts Trahir. Now sit and shh." Smirks a little, picking up on Corentine's shift in posture. "How can she hear over you babbling away."

Corentine She smiles at Velveteen... she read her posture.

Helena "I like my homeland, yes."

Corentine Cori looks to Velveteen and then to Helena.. " I want to thank you all for your time, tonight..I fear that I must make my exit. It was a long day and I do need to rest some."

Helena She jotted down her number quickly for the girl and held it out. "Goodnight, Corentine."

Trahir Trahison Trahir rises from the couch hearing that and extends his hand toward Corentine without a word. His gaze locks on hers, completely impassive.

Velveteen Velveteen blinked a little caught off guard. "Of course Corentine. Any time...really. You stay safe and we will talk again soon."

Corentine "Thank you, Helena..for your guidance." Cori smiles at Velveteen, " Thank you for everything." She then takes Trahir's hand.

Velveteen "You are very welcome Corentine. I am still workin on that nickname."

Helena "We're nicknaming her? I think Coren sounds cute."

Trahir Trahison Trahir's head cocks to one side, the movement almost imperceptible. He helps Corentine up and walks with her to the portal before saying "I'll be along shortly. Bucket is behind the bathroom door. Gustave ate already but Lolong will be hungry."

Corentine She laughs " I eagerly await my new, uh..name. I will not feed your pets, Trahir... that is your job."

Trahir Trahison The vampire shrugs. "Very well."

Corentine Cori nods to the older vampires and kisses Trahir on his cheek. " See you later, remember to take a shower." With that she leaves back to the apartment via the portal.

Trahir Trahison He raises an eyebrow. As if he could forget the filth staining his person.

Velveteen "Thanks Hells. I did offer for either Micah or I to help out but she didn't want to intrude on our schedules and I think she more wanted to...get to know others. Knowing the little that I do of Corentine you guys seemed to make a good match in my mind."

Helena Hells chuckled, "She's a very obstinate child it would seem. I quite adore those types of people." She eyed her sire’s wife. "I will try to be of what help to her I can."

Trahir Trahison He looks back to the others. A good match? A good match for what? Questions blast through his mind like bullets across a battlefield. He says nothing though, just returns to his spot on the couch quietly.

Velveteen Vel grinned, a lopsided grin and nodded. "I knew that. Another of the reasons I picked you. I like her." She said turning her attention then to Trahir.

Trahir Trahison T glances up at the movement of Velveteen's head turning in his direction. By this point it's not the questions themselves flying through his thoughts that bothers him, it's the fact that he's bothered that bothers him. It sounds as though his grand-childe has elected to take a new instructor and that frees up his schedule immensely. So why does that gnaw at his nerves so much? He realizes he is being watched seconds after the fact and just waits. Poker face.

Velveteen "Is everything ok Trahir....you look a little more expressionless than usual."

Helena She quirked a 'brow at Trahir. She wasn't a mind-reader, but she could make assumptions. It's natural that he'd be worried if his baby bird were being put out there, "I'd assume he thinks I'm the cat climbing the tree to eat the baby bird rather than the mama bird pushing the baby bird out of the nest to teach it to fly?" The closest English she could manage for the situation.

Trahir Trahison The young vampire doesn't know. How is he meant to answer that? The one responsibility that he has has been lifted... it's like retirement. So he should be ok. He should be dancing on cloud 9. Yet instead he feels... betrayed perhaps? Odd after he basically had nothing to do with his childe. Why does it bother him. Corentine is still his blood. She's... his period. Helena is a good choice, so why does he want to flip out right now? "I'm... fine," he says quietly.

Velveteen "You are still very much learning yourself Trahir. Corentine seems rather...ambitious. It makes sense that she would want to learn as well. I don't imagine that will mean that you are no longer needed though."

Trahir Trahison Trahir stands, that same iciness still in his eyes though his voice is warm and friendly. His posture... well, proper as usual, not much of a tell there. "She will be well looked after I'm sure. I will continue my instruction in martial arts with her. Helena is a very good choice." It galls him to say anything of the sort. In his mind he is tearing apart that feral vampire from earlier and beating people to death with it's arms.

Helena "Not particularly. Compared to most of my 'siblings', I'm nothing to gawk at. Thank you for the compliment though and I will do my best to help her."

Velveteen She smiles and nods. "She will. So you need not worry."Though it is late and I want to spend a little time with Micah before the suns comes up. We can talk further tomorrow night if you wish Trahir. Hells....thanks again, babe. Stay safe you two."

Trahir Trahison Trahir gives a bow as the sire departs and turns to Helena once she is out of earshot, or so he assumes. "She's mine. Don't let her get hurt." It's not spoken as a plea or a threat, just a simple statement of fact. To him, Corentine is family, by the look in his eyes she is much more than that.

Helena Helena listened to Trahir, with quiet amusement, though it barely registered on her face. She didn't take it as a plea nor a threat because she wasn't afraid of him, "She's her own person. Not your object. But I had no intent of letting her get harmed."

Trahir Trahison Trahir gives Helena a small bow as well before backing away his customary three steps and glancing to the fade portal leading to the catacombs. "Not an object. My heart, my conscience. My..." He turns and heads toward the portal stepping through, leaving the thought unfinished.

[Corentine (DELETED 6472)]

--The following transcript was a live chat roleplay--
~A short time later, back at Veil Tower~

Trahir Trahison Trahir steps into the apartment and glances around. Fresh from a hunt he goes and pick up his journal, flips it open and draws a single vertical line on the inside of the front cover before closing it and calling out Cori's name to see if she is there.

Corentine Corentine sighs when she hears his voice. She thought she would have some time to herself. " I am in the shower, Trahir..give me a moment."

Trahir Trahison He seats himself waiting quietly. He turns his knife over and over in his hand, looking at the trail of blood on the keen edge of the blade.

Corentine Cori washes the rest of the soap off and turns off the shower. She reaches for the plush white towel that is always hanging in the same locale, wraps it around her and heads into the bedroom...grabbing her hair brush and a hair tie, before she exits. " How was your day?" Wondering if he will even respond, as he had not when she acknowledged him.

Trahir Trahison The older vampire growls low in his chest and stands, making his way toward the bedroom. He steps in as she emerges, almost running into her. He stands looking at her for a long moment, picking his words carefully. "Have I failed you Corentine?"

Corentine She turns back into the bedroom and sits down upon the bed. She crosses her legs, at the ankle and proceeds to brush her hair. " What do you mean by that?"

Trahir Trahison The leather clad Killer steps forward, closing the distance to a couple feet. over to his right the reptilian eyes of the crocodiles watch them both. Trahir himself again seems to consider his words before speaking. "My instruction, you found it was insufficient?" He doesn't even notice the blade in his hand, still smeared with vampire blood, black, pungent and potent.

Corentine Cori watches him intently, picking up on every nuance in his behavior. She looks down upon the blade, then back up at him and rolls her eyes. " Can you get rid of that before we continue conversing, it is disgusting."

Trahir Trahison Trahir glances down with a frown and walks over to the aquarium, setting the blade down on top of it before walking back to Corentine. "Forgot I was still holding it to be honest."

Corentine "Now, what specifically about your instruction are you referring to?" Cori is well aware that he is more hesitant with her, than usual. She furrows her brow, awaiting an answer.

Trahir Trahison At this he raises an eyebrow. "The part where you seem to feel I wasn't capable of continuing to instruct you and sought aid from another." He knows that sounds jealous. Of course it sounds jealous. It's jealousy! "It seems you found my teachings insufficient."

Corentine She laughs... not the reaction she wanted to give, it just happened to come out. " Trahir, come sit." She pats the bed next to her...smiling as she does so.

Trahir Trahison Trahir stands watching her for a moment before he shrugs, defeated. He can't exactly change what happened. Velveteen made that clear. He goes to where she motioned and sits down.

Corentine Cori turns to face him and takes both of his hands into hers. She does not even want to think about what is on them... another shower will be needed, though. " Trahir, you have been a wonderful teacher. you gave me all that you, well..could. The thing is, you have been busy and distracted and I have been a bit bored. I asked Velveteen to pair me with someone that could answer questions that you may not have time to answer. Do you have an issue with this? I thought you would like the fact that I had networked?" Cori noticed that as she spoke her grip on Trahir's hands became tighter...

Trahir Trahison Trahir nods. The gnawing in his gut, not hunger, but envy continues but outwardly he starts to calm, regaining his composure. He loathes the fact that he feels, things like this. Ironic. "I see. I told Velveteen that I agreed with this whole thing after you left." Not that he was really given a choice in the matter. "I also told Helena not to allow you to be harmed."

Corentine "Why would you be upset that I networked? I went to your uh, sire and inquired... I did not circumvent you in anyway."

Trahir Trahison The vampire looks at her hands clasping his and then back up to her. "Jealousy that someone may be able to do more for you than I do," he says simply. The thought of that bothers him. He's not going to tell her the other reason, perhaps the more important one. Not yet at least.

Corentine She favors Trahir with a smile and disentangles his hands from her own. She reaches up and brushes the small strand of hair that had fallen into his face... " No one can do more for me than you... no one."

[Trahir Trahison]

--The following transcript was a live chat roleplay--
Trahir Trahison He watches her hand brush the hair away. He thinks of the kill they made tonight, the violator. It was over in mere seconds, a feeding frenzy. He imagines Corentine in the same predicament, his teachings having failed and he nods. "So long as you are safe, that is what matters."

Corentine Cori pulls away a bit and looks into his eyes. " Honestly, my safety is not of your concern."

Trahir Trahison Trahir stands suddenly. "You are of my lineage until the disenthrallment ritual is complete. That makes it my concern." That icy look is back, his features hardening to their all too familiar emotionless state. His voice could freeze a room. "You are still my concern."

Corentine She stands, as well and takes a step toward him. " Then, when it has been done and the link has been broken... then what?" Cori wants him to know she will not back down to him, ever. He can play his cards as he wishes, and she will play hers. " What is your deal, Trahir..what else is bothering you?" Cori senses that this is not his only issue with her.

Trahir Trahison The man doesn't move, doesn't blink. "You sever the bond between our blood and we still have the familial bond of Andras keeping us bound. You would still have been sired by my line, but you wouldn't be of my line. What would you have me say?"

Corentine Cori is aware that he did not answer her questions... not all of them. It is then she realizes that she is still in the towel and her hair, although slowly drying... is still very wet. " I need to get dressed..do you want to continue this conversation?"

Trahir Trahison Trahir nods. "What would you have of me Corentine?" He wants to know the same thing she does. He isn't capable of saying it, he is too conflicted and at this point his proverbial back is to the wall. "You enter my tutelage, you accompany me on hunts, you live with me. We feed together, hunt together. We both joined the same family together but... what? Why Corentine?"

Corentine The woman walks over to the dresser and gathers her clothes... she drops the towel and begins to change. " Why do I do all of this, you ask?" Cori will not allow him to win this game... " I want knowledge, I want to be with someone that can share knowledge with me and we can share the gathering of such together. Is this wrong, Trahir? Would you rather me not be here?" Cori gets that feeling inside... the one when she senses she is a burden on someone and that they will not come out and say it, directly.

Trahir Trahison Trahir says nothing for a moment, his eyes appraising her as her watches her getting dressed. The gentleman seems to be gone, the look in his eyes a smoldering want, a desire fanned to a flame with each footfall as he steps toward her and starts to reach out for her. "Be with? Is that what you want? In what way Cori?" He reaches out to her, inviting her to take his hands.

Corentine The young vampiress turns to face him... " Are you really that oblivious?" She will not answer his questions any longer... Cori wants him to speak and not in riddles. "I asked you a question, Do you wish me to go?"

Trahir Trahison Trahir shakes his head. "No. I want you to stay with me." He reaches out his hand to her. "I don't want you to go anywhere."

Corentine She walks over to Trahir and takes his hands, once again. " I want to be here, Trahir... if I didn't, I would have left a long while ago."

Trahir Trahison Trahir pulls her to him when she takes his hands and kisses her. He doesn't embrace her, letting her flee if she wishes but this is not a familial kiss, there is intent behind it, passion, lust.

Corentine Cori's first inclination is to pull back, pull back and run like hell... she doesn't do that, not at all. She wraps both her arms around his waist and pulls him in closer... melting into him and returning his kiss with all the ardeur that she has kept chained, pent up for a while now. She thinks, this is exactly what I have wanted....nothing more, for now.

Trahir Trahison Still kissing her, Trahir gently guides them toward the shower, clothes falling away as they go, and, as their bodies begin to entwine, to lay claim to one another in that most primal of ways, as the water beads off their skin washing away all traces of both the argument and the travails of the evening... the scene fades to black.

Lucky you, the contraceptive(s) worked. Your union didn't create a fadebeast this time.