New Years Eve 2017 to 2018

[Storyteller]

Alaric von der
The vampire couldn't eat. Nor could he drink. But he found himself in the pub by circumstance. It was a weeknight -- it was late. It wasn't busy. He'd been in the middle of the city and there'd been a parade of some description -- he hadn't hung around to find out what it was, or why, or for what reason. All he knew was that it was too loud. There were too many people. Too many phones, too many electronics. There were fireworks. It should have been fascinating. It should have been a glorious thing to behold. But his telepathy was a burden, much of the time; too many people with their minds open to the elements, too many signals flying through the air. And his mental walls were only so strong.

Alaric von der
He'd taken refuge at the train station though it hadn't been much of a refuge. He'd jumped on the train not realising it was the wrong one; it took him in the wrong direction. He'd got off, thinking he ought to just get on the next one going in the other direction but instead decided he'd walk. Gullsborough was quieter than the middle of the city and some fresh air to clear his head would do him good.

Alaric von der
He'd eventually ended up inside the quiet pub; there was a bartender and the music coming from the juke box was unobtrusive. Otherwise there were only a couple of other people present. With his thick German accent he ordered a glass of red wine, which he would not drink. But he could not sit there without ordering. And then he took a seat -- not against the wall, but not in the middle of the pub, either. And there he sat, still as a statue. Quiet, staring into space.

Ember March
Everyone had a vice, a secret, a skeleton in the closet or three. When one was clamoring their way up the proverbial ladder in the gritty underworld, it was prudent to put in the legwork to find out 'what' those things happened to be and how to exploit them for one's own benefit. It wasn't pretty. It wasn't easy, but someone had to do it? It might as well be Ember. There was something about her, a certain vibrancy and Joie de vivre that resonated. She moved through the door like a whirlwind, never mind how she happened to get there. She was simply dressed in denim jeans paired with short-heeled boots. She'd also chosen a black leather jacket she wears atop a designer tee which somewhat detracts from any 'tough-girl' persona she was attempting to project. Her bed-tousled curls were a little too perfect... as was the attention given to her makeup and accessories. She makes her way to the bar and orders a shot of rum and a chaser of Diet Cola. It wouldn't pay to be inebriated when she'd prefer her senses sharp. She was a cunning conversationalist and a natural flirt. Soon, she'd have tender engaged in an intermittent conversation between serving his other patrons.

Ember March
(the tender)

Alaric von der
The door opened and the chilled, outside air swirled and eddied amongst the warmth of the pub. Alaric's green eyes blinked; they were glassy, like gems. He had no need to blink them. His body didn't function like that of a human's; he could sit for hours in the same position and never blink, never move a limb. He never got cramps. He wasn't restless. It was constantly on his mind that he should move, just a little. Twitch, scratch itches that didn't exist. Just to fit in.

Alaric von der
Humanity knew about vampires, now, but Alaric had been there the last time they'd found out. He was there when vampires were eradicated; he'd spent two centuries in the shadows of death because of it. He wasn't willing to shout it from the rooftops, what he was. He'd prefer to keep it secret.

Alaric von der
The girl who'd caused the shift in atmosphere was like a breath of fresh air herself. She looked like ... he didn't even know what she looked like. He was curious, of course. Mental fingers reached out, his mind brushing against hers. Human. He could tell, even from the distance. She was human. She was... no. There was something else there, too. What was that? He dipped his finger into the glass of wine; now wet, the tip of said finger swirled around the glass's rim. A sonorous melody curled from the movement. Background noise, while Alaric stared.

Ember March
There were many signal triggers that cause the response. Despite the adages and superstitions, it was simply a basic bodily reaction to emotional stimuli...

Ember March
Some theorists might rationalize that being an unwitting victim to telepathic onslaught can bring about the phenomena in a similar manner as pheromones or fear. It was a sudden tingle along the spine... a brush of chill that had nothing to do with the current climate conditions.

Ember March
It was that eerie feeling of someone 'waking over one's grave.' It caused gooseflesh to prickle on the back of Ember's neck as the rush of rum swept past her crimson-stained lips. The glass was lowered to the bar with a clink, slow and deliberate in calculated movement.

Ember March
First, she sips the coke. Gut instinct. She'd long ago learned to trust it. It had saved her pretty neck more than once. Next, reaches into the pocket of her jacket and removes a compact and a tube of lipstick. Using the pretense of freshening her makeup, she angles the compact over her shoulder allowing her a better view of the other patrons. Alaric is studied, not so much because of what he is doing - but instead what he isn't. Her perusal is interrupted by the bartender who returns to continue their previous conversation, and she loses her concentration. She snaps the compact closed in time to offer a witty rejoinder and replaces both the lipstick and the mirror into her pocket.

Alaric von der
The vampire avoided mirrors when out in public. At home, there were no mirrors in his own living quarters but the rest of the family were human; mirrors could be found in the guest bedrooms, in their bedrooms, in one of the hallways. There were plenty of things Alaric had changed on the estate after he'd risen from the dead, but he hadn't changed everything. He hadn't demanded the removal of all mirrors. They all knew what he was. There was no reason to hide in his own home.

Alaric von der
In public he stayed out of elevators, as they were mostly made of mirrors. He didn't like them anyway. He got claustrophobic. He stayed away from bars whose back walls were mirrors. He walked quickly past shop fronts whose glass windows were reflective. Not having a reflection was a bane, and the one thing that could give him away in an instant.

Alaric von der
So when the girl plucked a mirror from her bag to fix her makeup -- a habit he was confused about, if he were honest, as he did not understand the concept of makeup generally -- he tensed. He froze in spot as if he would be seen, but of course he wouldn't be. But she wasn't paying him any mind. She'd not even looked at him when she'd come in, had she? Most humans these days did not pay attention to their surroundings. It would be fine. So he relaxed. He forced himself to relax; his finger had stopped its thrum around the rim of the glass. The melody resumed as Alaric pondered his options. Should he approach? Or should he stay put?

Alaric von der
Get out more, they said. Meet people, they said. But he was far too out of practice.

Ember March
A relatively easy-to-grasp-fact about being a Blood Thief... or... any sort of thief... really... was that it becomes so much easier if people just... give things of value to you thus eliminating a need to put forth an effort to steal it by some means of crookery. Ember certainly followed this precept in her personal dealings with Vampires. It generally worked incredibly well for her.

Ember March
Oh, one couldn't exactly call it a 'gift.' More of an 'exchange' of services. Fortunately, she was willing to barter. The little minx was as slippery as they come, for all her doe-eyed machinations.

Ember March
She knew exactly where she wanted to be in the scheme of things - on top. She'd yet to exhibit overt signs of ruthless behavior... but some people were capable of almost anything to get what they want. The girl was not one to be underestimated in her venery for predominance. The bartender steps away again, and Ember turns.

Ember March
Alaric finds himself caught in her rapacious stare. She's smiling, and its dazzle is the product of orthodontic-assisted perfection meant to beguile its intended audience. With her gaze and the tilt of her chin, she offers an unspoken invitation. Oh, she has the proper maneuvers orchestrated with such finesse she ought to be on camera. Her milky teeth bite into the soft flesh of her dewy lower lip as she turns away and simply waits.

Alaric von der
When one had centuries under their belt, age became a confusing thing. When the girl turned to gift the elder with her alluring, gleaming smile, he found himself trying to guess at her age. In human years, how old was she? Did it even matter? In comparison to one such as him, she was surely still a child. Even an eighty year old... but humanity was surprising, in all its complexities. People could have old souls. They could be surprising, how worldly and experienced they seemed when they had only lived such a short time.

Alaric von der
The vampire assumed that she would slip from her stool and come to him, but she didn't. No, this was a slippery one. This was a game, wasn't it? This was the kind of game men and women played, in this day and age. Relationships weren't set up. They didn't lead to marriage after only a few weeks of courtship. Men and women slept together without even being in a relationship and it was all very shocking to the elder. It was scandalous. But he could appreciate the freedom.

Alaric von der
Was this that kind of game, though? He couldn't know. No one had ever played it with him; no one had ever invited him to join. The girl turned away and for a half a minute, Alaric remained where he was. Eventually he knew he should stand, and so he did. Quiet steps took him over to the bar -- he looked out of place in this quiet pub, with his black slacks, his pristine white button-up shirt and black jacket. Half of a suit. He preferred full suits, but he was told that to constantly walk around wearing formal suits was not a thing these days. Again, he had come around to enjoying the freedom.

Alaric von der
He slipped onto the stool and cleared his throat. He'd left his glass of wine behind. He could feel the heat radiating from the woman's body. Woman, not girl. She clearly was not a girl. "Guten abend," he said, the German slipping out. He smiled.

Ember March
"Hello." She offers in return, picking up the glass of diet soda and catching the bobbing straw between slender fingers. She uses it to idly churn the ice and continues speaking. "I never quite know what to do in these situations. I could offer to buy you a drink, it would seem quite ordinary. But we both know you're not going to drink it. Then again, I could order another shot of rum... and enjoy it myself leaving the empty glass in front of you thus keeping those who prefer the curtains firmly drawn content to remain behind their locked doors and their white picket fences."

Ember March
Her tone of voice low and conversational, for his ears alone. She signals the bartender, offering a 'V' of her pointer and middle finger to indicate she'd like two more shots of rum. Her voice was an alluring alto... The exchange of not-quite-pleasantries was mellifluously vociferated in rich and cool incantation, comparable to an unexpected brook in a lovely scenery... layered and mysterious in its twisting path and unexplored depths.

Ember March
She continues. "I'm new in town, you see... My name is Ember, what's yours?" The straw is tucked between her lips and her luminous eyes widen as they fall upon the Vampire intent in her focus. She was a crafty one. Whatever rules the 'game' happened to follow, seemed incredibly complex despite the vapid role in which she'd cast herself.

Alaric von der
A frown was offered toward the bag into which the compact mirror must have returned. Alaric should have been more startled, his surprise evident. Instead, he was still ruminating upon games and how they were played. But he wasn't nervous, and he was only a little stunned that she should know what he was. That she should know, and still be so accommodating. Vampires didn't have a good rep these days.

Alaric von der
But what had prompted her to look in the mirror to begin with, if that was how his species had been discovered? He watched the bartender, silence nestled between them as he considered his response. Ember was not nervous either. She didn't look nervous. She didn't sound nervous. She sounded sure of herself. Confident. It was captivating.

Alaric von der
The bartender came and went, the drinks deposited in front of them. Alaric turned his attention back to the curious creature beside him. "It is Alaric," he said, responding to her question. "How is it that you detected me so easily?" he asked. He was not angry. He was not upset. It would be a good thing to know; he'd know what to avoid, in future.

Ember March
So close, the smell of the heady perfume that clings to her clothing can quickly become cloying unless one particularly enjoyed the blended notes of ripe berries, dragonfruit, jasmine and other, softer notes like vanilla... honeysuckle... coconut. She too grew silent, offering cash and a generous tip in order to keep her newly acquired contact complicit should anyone come 'round asking the wrong questions.

Ember March
A quick shake of her head in the negative causes her curls to bounce. "I didn't, not at first." Her shoulders rise and fall in an insolent shrug. She didn't tell him she would always inspect the perimeter of a room upon entry... or how she'd note the doors and exits and the location of any notable patrons. Though, his inward glimpse into her psyche might have revealed such details.

Ember March
Haven't you ever felt eyes that fall upon you, even when you're turned away? Have you ever wondered whose they were, and why they cared enough to be watching? I like to think of it as the id... vying for survival." She smiles again, but this time, it doesn't quite meet her tempestuous gaze.

Ember March
"Cheers." She offers. She downs the jigger of bourbon, and with a quick exchange by slight-of-hand, she switches her empty shot-glass for his yet untouched.

Alaric von der
The surprise, now, was evident. Alaric, who several months earlier hadn’t spoken a lick of English, had devoured books. Piles of them. Fiction, history, science, philosophy, culture – whatever he could get his hands on, he read. If he could get them in both German and English, so much the better. He could study them, back and forth; it meant he read things several times over, and he absorbed the information within. He had read Freud, though her preferred Nietzsche, Marx, and Heidegger. A woman, a young attractive woman looking at him with such open confidence and quoting philosophy? Where had she come from? Who was she?

Alaric von der
“It is your confidence more than your looks,” he replied, eventually. “It is why I cared to be watching,” he said. It was all the explanation he gave; it was all he felt he needed to give.

Alaric von der
“If it is your id vying for survival, are you afraid for your safety?” he asked. So she should be. A lone vampire in a pub, he could be scouting for meals. A victim. Someone alone. Someone who would not be missed. She had invited him, with her eyes, to come and join her. Surely, she was not afraid for her life – unless it was the fear she was addicted to. Unless she liked to play with her own life. There was nothing to fear from Alaric, of course. He could not remember the last time he had succumbed to human blood – aside from the night had returned. But, she did not know this.

Ember March
"Should I be?" she questions breezily. The alcohol burns a path in its descent and a delectable warmth seeps into her stomach from the 18-year-old Nicaraguan rum she'd imbibed.

Ember March
"Here we are, having a dri... at least I'm having a drink... being chummy, getting to know one another. Let's not ruin it just yet with semantics, Alaric." She cast a glance around. "It's a public pub... I've been speaking to the bartender enough for him to recognize my photo and I've tipped him well enough that he'll remember me, should anyone come inquiring about my present whereabouts." She reasons. Her lyrical voice drops to a more seductive octave, "Besides, a handsome fellow like you. I'm sure that the ladies simply trip over themselves just to be near you."

Ember March
"Let's be friends? We can be wonderful friends, you and I. If we see each other on a street in passing we can stop and say hello and make passing comments about the weather. I think it sounds positively pleasant." She finishes, along with her diet Coke before placing the glass aside.

Alaric von der
Alaric shook his head. It wasn't to negate anything. It was slow before it stopped. He'd shook his head because he wasn't sure he'd met anyone quite like Ember before, but that was not something he would say. It was too naff. What person was ever exactly like another? Alaric knew many extraordinary people. To meet one more should not be surprising to him.

Alaric von der
The tender shake of his head soon became more solid. "You do not know me to trust me, but I would not hurt you, nor anyone," he said. It was a common misconception about vampires; they were all demons and devil spawn, and they all had to be slaughtered. Vampires were as complex as humans, however. Their immortality was not always by choice.

Alaric von der
Alaric von der quit (kicked from Harper Country Pub by noflood)

Alaric von der
The compliment had not been missed, though Alaric did glance down at his hands. They were worn, unlike hers. They had aged -- they were aged, before he was turned and his aging ceased. Was he handsome? He had not thought about it. If it was a thing to make women trip over themselves for, then he would think not. No women had tripped in his presence. The one woman he had hoped might favour him instead favoured another. He hadn't been bothered by it. At least, he thought he hadn't. There was too much else to care for, too much else to focus on to be preoccupied by one's love life, or lack thereof. He had not been searching.

Alaric von der
"Friends, yes," he said. He had not many of those, outside of family. Again, he smiled. Again, he was staring. He could not help it. "You are... I think, an enigma," he said to her. "I would like to get to know you. Why are you here?" he asked. It was his way of asking 'what brings a girl like you to a place like this?' As good as his English had become, there were still phrases he stumbled over.

Ember March
t seemed she'd been prepared to answer when the two were interrupted by the intrusion of a digital 'ding' of Ember's cell-phone notifications. "One moment... " She murmurs before tugging the device from her jacket. She uses an imprinted code locked to her finger in order to view the screen. She gave the vampire another glance, "It was a good a place as any to wait for a phone call. And, that's my ride." She finishes. The third shot of rum, untouched, she slides in front of Alaric. On the bar's top remains one empty, one full. He might give it to the next person who decided to occupy the seat beside him. "Have a lovely evening, my friend. Until we meet again." A final smile and she was gone, walking out the door and into the waiting Uber leaving only the trailing waft of her perfume in the wake of her passing.

Ember March
(Nite! I'm dying, play soon, so fun! Sorry I was so tired!)

Alaric von der
( I have this saved to post. We could have left it unfinished and continued another day! I'll format to post tho and we can start something new. :3 )

Ember March
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Ember March
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Doc
GM: Welcome to the Harper Country Pub. Your host tonight is the Harper Rock Chamber of Commerce. Libations and hors d'oeuvres are complimentary, and supplied Chamber of Commerce Members, to say thank you for making 2017 a great year. Harper Rocks’ Business Listing increased by 1.7 percent for the 12-month period. The reported collective earnings for member businesses increased by 3.4 percent over the last year. ((ooc note: Business owners that wish to rp as though they donated items and goods, are welcome to do so.))

Doc
GM: As we say goodbye to 2017 and ring in 2018, we here at the Chamber of Commerce want to say thank you to all our businesses in Harper Rock whether you are member of the Chamber or not. It is by everyone’s collective dedication that we are set to have an even better year in 2018! And if you aren’t a member, but you would like to join, there is a table beside the open bar, that has some literature about the perks and benefits of being a member of the Chamber of Commerce.

Doc
GM: In addition to the to Libations and hors d'oeuvres, various restaurants from Harper Rock have food tasting stations set up, so you can try their menus, if you have never visited. Let’s all make a new years resolution to visit a new Harper Rock Business every month in 2018! If we work together, we can all prosper. ((ooc note: Restaurant business owners are welcome to rp as though they/their businesses are part of the evening’s hosted events.))

Doc
GM: Our music tonight are all locals, here in Harper Rock. If you would them to help with your 2018 events, do not be shy about asking for the rate sheets and availability! They have all come prepared! ((ooc note: Singers, bands and musicians are welcome to rp as though they are part of the evening’s hosted events.))

Doc
GM: If anyone is interested in the business plan the Chamber has for 2018, there is a copy on the back table. The Summary of the Corporate Business Plan provides our roadmap for the next three years including our planned commitments and how we will meet these commitments to provide better service to Canadians. Finally, a bit of housekeeping rules, Fred is on the door and if he thinks someone has had a bit much to drink, he will confiscate your keys, and call you a complimentary taxi to get you home.

Hannah Lynn
Hannah had come on behalf of promoting Iris' business, 'Once Upon a Time,' a book restoration place. As she entered, the woman picked up some pamphlets, mildly interested at best. Hannah had no immediate desires to start a business, though who knew what the future held, as she had a long one ahead of her. The woman moved through the small crowd that gathered near the open bar with information, and glanced around to see if anyone she knew would be here. Jude maybe? Alaric? Even Freddie, since he had a lot of businesses it seemed. (Wearing: https://www.worldcelebritydress.com/med ... ds-rec.jpg )

Doc
Doc enters the Pub, waving to a colleague. ( https://imageshack.com/i/poOyvtHTj ) The crowd was respectable. Doc was there shortly after the doors opened. Lizzie had decided after the Christmas Ball, she would give this one a miss. He completely understood. But he was running for office and needed to network. There would be no Lizzie in a slinky red dress to distract him. After the door shut, he realized he missed the opening comments. Good. They were always ******* boring anyway. He glanced at a person in passing, “Open bar?” and received a nod and gesture toward the back of the room, so he made his way back there.

Doc
GM: My apologies everyone.. I have been reminded that there are door prizes tonight.. you can add your business card into shiny red box to enter, located .. you guessed it.. on the table by the bar!

Doc
((715 GM: Screenshot taken. All names currently listed will receive 250 rpp))

Amalea
The red-head had been at the venue already this day, having made a few deliveries of hors d'oeuvres and prizes for the event. She had also confirmed that her catering company, Crimson Delights, had a food tasting station. The room certainly looked a bit different from earlier, though so did she, having gone home to get ready. Eyes scanned the room as she entered, nodding at her staff as she made her way through the room to see who all were in attendance. (( Wearing: https://i.imgur.com/JaIcRet.jpg ))

Hannah Lynn
While Hannah did not have a business card for herself, she did have one for the name of the business and the owner's contact details. Door prize? What was the worst they could win? She opened the clutch she had in her possession, moved back near the bar and dropped the card in a red box, before snapping the clutch closed.

Doc
Doc was on his way to the bar, but when the announcement was made about door prizes, it was like everyone lost their freaking minds. The mad rush to drop their business card in a box, made him raise his eyebrows. What could the prize possibly be? Fruit of the month? Yea that was wasted on him. However he fought his way to the bar, and told the bartender. "Three Fingers Johnny Walker blue.. no.. make it four.. the crush is such I may not make back here again.. " After collecting his drink, he tried to make his way out of the back..but he was hemmed in, and actually closer to the box than he expected. He debated. What the ****,. He pulled a card out of his shirt pocket, and eyed the brunette (Hannah Lynn) near him, "Excuse me.. could you drop this in for me?"

Hannah Lynn
A card almost magically appeared in her line of sight and she heard the request. Hannah didn't find it unreasonable, not in the slightest, so she turned and took the card and offered the person a smile. "Sure. But if you win something big-like a large sum of cash, share a little of it?" She asked, then narrowed her eyes a little. He looked familiar, but then again, so did a lot of people. Someone she saw while workin in the hospital, maybe? Was possible. "Good luck." With that Hannah dropped the card in the box and then tried to weave around the bodies that gathered around the box for a chance at some prize.

Amalea
Amalea stepped out of the way of a few very determined woman that had decided they absolutely needed to be among the first to enter their cards after the announcement. Her red tresses shook as she headed towards the bar; she'd drop her card in later when the masses were otherwise occupied. She didn't see the need to rush given most drawings were done at the end. Smiling at the bartender, she ordered a glass of white wine, which she took with her thanks once it was ready. Where to go next was the question.

Doc
Doc grinned at her. "You really think it will be cash?" He glanced around the crowd, "I count two grocers, a catering company, a car wash.. and not one bank. My guess is it will be gift certificates. If I win the 'Fruit of the month', it's all yours." He then frowned slightly, as he focused on her, she was a vampire and he knew her.. somehow. But she was not just any vampire.. they were related. He took a drink of his whisky, and finally asked, "You are a d'Artois..Pi or Elliot?"

Zodiac
Zodiac peeks in and looks about before deciding to enter. She slips in and takes a seat where the curve of the bar touches the wall..

Hannah Lynn
Hannah was ready to move on, but the stranger-or not so much a stranger, given he seemed to have some innate sense on things she didn't advertise, was broadcasted. "Uhmmm." She looked around, slightly confused. What was a d'Artois? And who was...Pi? "I don't know Pi...or what you're talking about." She said apologetically, before shrugging. "Sorry?"

Zodiac
Her eyes caught the table in the back, and she slipped quietly around the guests and made her way to it. She was already a member of the CoC

Ariadne
slid in among the early crowd and stood near the door for a moment. People. They were almost overwhelming with their... noise, and inability to understand the acceptable social proximity for interactions. Ari kept her long coat on as she wove her way through the crowd and towards the bar, dropping a business card off in the bowl on the way.

Zodiac
so ignored the membership offer, but took a copy of the 2018 overview. She then stared at the box for a few moments before dropping her card in, then returned to her vanatge point at the bar. Once seated, she began to scan through to folder.

Doc
Doc had to give her props for having the black confused look down. He almost believed it. But he knew he wasn't wrong about her. But that look on her face was perfect. He gave her a side eyed look, could it be she didn't know who turned her? "Alright.. " He took another drink and appraised her. He was correct. "Lets try this again.. You and I are related. Through Elliot.."

Amalea
She smiled at Ariadne as the woman made her way towards the bar. She took a step out of the way, "Evening, Ari." Eyes scanned the crowd before she continued, "At least this is lower key than the Holiday Ball."

Doc
GM: Screenshot taken. All names currently listed will receive $500.00 ))

Hannah Lynn
"No, I don't think so. Sorry." She said, still trying to move through the sea of bodies, silently chewing on the name Elliot. Then it hit her. Right. Elliot Lancaster-she almost forgot that was his name-Freddie's real name. "Oh. Right. Sorry. He doesn't really go by that anymore, I guess?" She shrugged again, then glanced around. Speaking of Freddie...where was he? She frowned, not because Hannah couldn't be her solo, but he should be here promoting his businesses.

Zodiac
Her cell trilled softly. The gypsy looked at the screen, then took a long look at the people in attendance. Checking every face for a few moments. Her fingers plucked out a single word reply. 'Nope'. She hit send and went back to reading.

Doc
Doc lifted an eyebrow. Elliot doesn't go by that anymore? "What?" Now it was Doc's turn to be confused. He stared at her, and then realization hit him. She was the girl he and Amalea went camping with. "I do know you!" He grinned his lopsided closed lip smirk, "We went camping together. I brought the booze.. " He raised his eyebrows at her like, yes. that was me.

Ariadne
took a quick glance around the room, making sure to take note of the items that she had dropped off from the winery. She nodded to the redhead as she signaled to the bartender. "White wine, please. Amalea, would you like anything?"

Hannah Lynn
When he claimed he knew her and then how it was he knew her, Hannah nodded and then smiled in recoginition. "Oh! Right. That was...different and unexpected." She admitted with a laugh. "So are you here for the free food, or?" It was Hannah's casual way of asking if he was here to promote a business and what that business was.

Amalea
She held up her own glass of white wine with a quiet laugh. "I'm all set, but thanks." She took a small sip as she collected her thoughts. "It's interesting to see so many business people in one place. I have to admit I'm happy to have a venue to get some of mine out there."

Doc
"No.. I am here to network. I am running for City Council. The Swansdale seat, if you are in my voting district, I would appreciate your vote. My playform, is make parking a priority.. and make do something about the crime rate, Soldiers are not the answer. Putting perps behind bars is."

Hannah Lynn
"I'm not. Sorry." She said with a smile, but could appreciate the platform. "Parking is a big problem all across Harper Rock. You've got something solid there, I'm sure." She complimented, then thought about the soldiers. "As for the soldiers, probably not, but it was a war zone here not that long ago-or so I hear." So, Hannah could understand the city's reaction

Doc
took a sip and nodded, "Agreed.. but their presence adds to peoples unease and frustrations. Sure have the stationed int he city.. but give them community relation building jobs. Have them rebuild some of the parks in the lower income areas. Those families would appreciate it. Their kids would appreciate it." He never thought about kids feelings before, but recently, he had been doing some introspective thinking. Things he had grown up knowing as true, yet horrible constants, were not the norm. "Kids should not have to grow up seeing soldiers in their neighborhoods, unless they are there to help."

Hannah Lynn
"Well, hopefully for the sake of your district, you can keep them out..if you win." Hannah said, understanding his point to an extent, but since kids were not a thing she dealt with often, and probably never would, Hannah could see his point, but the point of keeping those kids safe from those who would like to see the city be a war zone of sorts. "Which reminds me-good luck on your campaign." Hannah added in, before glancing around. "I should mingle. I was expecting someone, but if they don't come..." She suddenly remembered the other three business cards she brought. "Here. If you ever need a book rebound or anything, come to 'Once Upon a Time.' It's amazing the work the owner does on old books." The card was handed over to Doc with a smile, after she snapped her clutch closed.

Doc
Doc accepted the card, "Thank you, should I need it I will give you a call." He paused, then added, "Did Elliot.. or whatever he is calling himself now.. say when his" he sighed a long suffering sigh, "..wife would be back?"

Ariadne
nodded and removed her coat, revealing the backless, dusky rose colored gown that she had donned for this occasion. "Yes, it's good to see so many of the local business owners come together. You know, I don't think I've ever attended one of these before..."

Ariadne
Wearing: https://i.p i n i m g.com/564x/6a/97/30/6a97 ... 918aaf.jpg ))

Amalea
"Love the dress." She shook her head lightly, "This would be the first year I was eligible so didn't think it prudent to miss it. I suppose the network opportunities alone would be worth it."

Doc
GM: Screenshot taken. All names currently listed will receive 500 rpp ))

Hannah Lynn
Hannah opened her mouth to interject what Freddie went by these days, but then snapped her mouth shut when there was something slightly unexpected dropped in her lap. "Freddie." She finally said after a few seconds of just staring at the man, whose name she didn't catch. "And you would have to ask him. I wasn't aware he was married." Hannah said evenly. Life was full of surprises with Freddie lately, but this was by far the biggest surprise of them all and something Hannah wasn't going to make a deal out of. She was here for Iris and her business.

Zodiac
She looked to the door moments before it opened. A red headed woman with glasses entered and began to look around. Zodiac motioned for her to come join her. "Sorry," the girl apologized as she took a seat. "The printers were running late." She pulled a violet colored tri fold from her bag and handed it to Zo to inspect.

Zodiac
"The Pandora Project. Serving the Spiritual needs of Harper Rock for 7 years" Zo read the title and then opened the tri-fold. It had a basic history of her original business and what it had expanded to over time.

Doc
Doc pocketed her card, nodding. "Freddie?" With herculean effort, he managed to not laugh, and keep a pleasant enough look on his face. "You know.. common law marriage. Trying to be politically correct. He and Pi have have been shacked up for five years now.. except she had to go to Paris.. " He paused, gave her a shrug and knowing look, "and well, you know him. He can be so ******* needy. I am surprised he has lasted this long without her. He tends to beget a girl, when hes antzy. And Pi been gone awhile.."

Zodiac
"I like them. Put a stack of them on that table over there." she pointed out the spot.

Ariadne
"Thank you. It's a fairly recent acquisition. I've had some free time of late and it's been taken up with some light shopping..." She did another visual sweep of the room, noting Doc and Zodiac, but very few others that she knew. Taking a sip of her wine, she turned back to Amalea. "Did you bring anything for tonight?"

Hannah Lynn
Hannah listened to what he had to say and then frowned. Something seemed amiss with the story. "Five years?" She shook her head and then shrugged. "So someone he lived with at some point, or she with him, went to Paris and left him? I really wouldn't consider them married-common law or not. Especially since he hasn't been living with her for-well, a really long time. Sounds like he's fair game to me." Hannah said, though she still planned on asking about this 'Pi' person. "It's unlikely she cares for him at all, leaving him for as long as she has and hasn't spoken to him in that long either. Sounds like they're sort of a done deal." Hannah said, blue eyes narrowing a little. Did Freddie remember 'Pi?' Lots more questions ran through her mind.

Zodiac
Jennifer made her way through the crowd and added the literature to the others on the table, then returned. Zo motioned for the bartender to bring them drinks.

Amalea
"It suits you." She took a sip of her wine as she scanned the room noting Doc with a familiar looking woman and Zodiac over in the corner, but no one else she knew it seemed. "I did." She nodded towards one of the tasting tables. "My catering company has a table with samples for everyone. They also did up some of the hors d'oeuvres. There's a table somewhere with information on my other businesses. Also did a couple prizes for the raffle. Figured it was the least I could do, honestly." She glanced at the woman, "How about you?"

Doc
Doc grinned at her. "It would be amusing.. very much so.. if that were the case. Maybe she finally wised up. I always said she could do better." The smile twisted with wry amusement. Oh yes he liked that idea. Pi just leaving his ***. Leaving him and making him wonder. "Well I need to network. You have a good evening," He handed her his business card. "If you need anything" He let his verbal words trail off and they went telepathic ~Healing, pulled out of a jam.. call.~

Hannah Lynn
Hannah took his business card and then dropped it into her clutch without even looking at it. She watched him walk away to go mingle and network, leaving her with at least a dozen questions. But, not the time or the place. And Hannah wanted to get Freddie's side of things-whatever that may be and whatever he remembered. Hannah just nodded her head, then moved to gather some brochure's of other businesses. She couldn't leave now, even though Hannah wanted to.

Ariadne
I did. I had Finley and a few of the girls set up a tasting table with some of the popular wines and a few of the seasonal blends, as well as items for the raffle. Never hurts to ply people with a little alcohol, eh?"

Amalea
She laughed lightly, "No, it doesn't. Does tend to loosen quite a few people up. I'll have to stop by later and try a few. I'm always on the prowl for great products for Crimson."

Doc
Doc saw a familiar redhead in the crowd, and headed that way. He was proud of himself. He met a new family member, and had not pissed them off, insulted them, unless you call insulting their sire an insult to them. Nah. He had done well. Finally reaching Amalea's side, he grinned, "Evening Kid.. " He gave Ari a polite nod and smile, "Ari.." He looked back at Amalea, "You will never guess who I ran into.. Camping chick! Only she's one of Elliot's; and Elliot goes by the name Freddie.. what the **** is up with that?"

Zodiac
"You are not very social tonight, boss. What's wrong?" Jennifer asked the gypsy. Zo had sniffed her drink and sat it back down untouched

Zodiac
There was no blood in it. Was she the only one left that could not consume anything but? "Nothing to discuss at the moment, dear."

Doc
GM: Screenshot taken. All names currently listed will receive $500.00))

Amalea
"Evening, Doc." She gave him a soft smile, glad to see him mingling. Camping chick? Her nose crinkled a moment. "That was Hannah?!" It would certainly explain why she looked familiar yet why she couldn't have placed her. Her mind finished processing the rest of the statement. The woman had been human at the time of the trip... was he suggesting she was now a vampire? She shook her tresses lightly, "Normal doesn't seem to apply to him." She still couldn't forget the Irish pub incident.

Doc
Doc nodded and gave Amalea a smirk due to her comment about Elliot. Doc didn't care how or why Elliot changed his name, Doc wasn't going to use a fake name. Especially one like.. Freddie. "She has a business rebinding books.. if you have needs." This was supposed to be a networking event, he could plug her business. "Have either you made any decent connections? I need new pet sitter. Have you come across anything like that?"

Lancaster dArt
There was a lot to get caught up on. What with the cure, and a few memories trickling back, Freddie was now aware that he had numerous businesses to his name. They'd all run quite smoothly without him, for however long he had been gone, but he was trying to step back into the role of 'boss', and 'owner'. He'd started with the pub, allowing the other businesses to keep running as they had been. But even with the pub, there were maintenance issues that needed attending to, and all those things that only he was able to sign off on. It meant that he was late to the part -- even on New Year's Eve. He stepped through the door, gaze jumping over the gathered crowd to find Hannah. Once he did, he made a bee-line for her, loping across the room to slip a hand around her waist. "Sorry I'm late..."

Hannah Lynn
Hannah picked up a couple brochures on various things. A specialty boutique. Some interior designer. And other random things that seemed unique or interesting. Something to read, at least. A hand came around her waist, one that was all too familiar with and she glanced to the side he was at and smiled. "Not too late. And be glad." She said, before pointing to a red shiny box. "There's a drawing for mystery prizes, if you're interested. You can drop a business card in there." She smiled even bigger at him, reminding herself there was a time and place for everything. Not here.

Zodiac
"Well hello," Zo thought to herself as she looked at the recent arrival. She found him somewhat familiar, but his aura had changed

Amalea
"I'll keep that in mind, thanks." An eyebrow raised at the mention of needing a pet sitter. How had she missed said pet? "I was just catching up with Ari, first." She pulled a card from her bag and handed it to him, "I do own an animal sanctuary with pet care services, in case you don't find a new one."

Lancaster dArt
Freddie glanced at the shiny box and arched a brow. His fingers immediately went for his pocket, and for the wallet that resided within. A new wallet, of course; if he had an old one, he had no idea where it was. Probably somewhere in the sewers. Maybe he burned it, threw it away. He frowned at it. "I... probably should get some of those made, huh?" he said. They probably existed. It hadn't crossed his mind to try find them, though he should have given the theme of the event. He had a lot on his mind lately.

Ariadne
gave Doc a once over before sipping her wine. "Doctor."

Hannah Lynn
Hannah's nose crinkled a little in humor and then she nodded her head. "If you plan on making a good run of the things you own." If he didn't that was okay by her too. Really, Hannah just wanted him to find something he wanted to do, and loved doing, even if it was the businesses or not. "But, there's time." Maybe not as much time as she had, but he had time to figure it all out. "There is someone here that seems to know you." Hannah pointed, even if it was not polite to do so, to the guy that had informed her about Freddie's-or rather, Elliot's common law wife. "I didn't catch his name though." She admitted.

Doc
Doc straightened. "Really? Oh Kid!" He hugged her. "You are a star!" He looked relieved, "Molly needs a tight leash. I swear.. Dominique is not allowed unsupervised visits. In fact.. Do not even tell Dominique that you are keeping Molly. No visits period. When can I drop her off? Shes going to be birthing in a few days.. and she needs 24/7 eyes on her. This is her first litter."

Zodiac
"What are you seeing that I am not, boss?" Jennifer knew that look all too well. Something had caught her employer's attention.

Zodiac
"It's real" was all the explination she would give. A couple of people approaced the duo with violet tri-folds in hand. Zodiac smiled brightly and the pair began their work. The gypsy 'speaking' with her hands as Jennifer translated as the answered questions.

Amalea
"Uh, what is Molly?" It was the first question that popped to mind. "The facility is open all the time given the city's unique needs. So anytime, really." The Sanctuary also served as a place for those with animal forms to run around without care or seek medical attention. She was also contracted with animal control to take anything that they picked up.

Lancaster dArt
Freddie nodded and arched a brow, interested. He turned in the direction Hannah and gestured only to frown. He even considered those sitting nearby, in case he had mistaken who it was Hannah had pointed out. He recognised no one, and felt that ache in his head, familiar but not. Oh, he knew that she was probably right. Someone probably did know him, but he couldn't remember them. He shrugged. "I guess I'll get a lot of that," he said, pushing his wallet back into his pocket. "Have you been having a good time? Have you made any new contacts?"

Doc
"Chihuahua." He expected to get a look from both of them, but he didn't care. Molly was cool. Cool, but very pregnant and needed to have someone with her, and his schedule was getting hectic. and Cyril was useless with her. "She's been to the vet had all her check ups. Everything is fine. The vet said it was a small litter. Two. But it is her first."

Doc
GM: Screenshot taken. All names currently listed will receive 500 rpp ))

Amalea
"I expected a cat, honestly." Well, now she knew he didn't hate dogs, which was good, given what she turned into. "She sounds cute. I'll have to drop by and check on her while she's there. She'll be well cared for."

Ariadne
slid her glass over to the bartender for a refil and eyed Doc in disbelief. "A... Chihuahua? You own a Chihuahua."

Doc
Doc nodded. "Molly is more cat than Dog. She acts like a cat. She sleeps on the back of the sofa. She lays in the window sill like a cat. But I digress.. So.. " He looked at Ari, "Yes Ari.. I own a Chihuahua. She is ******* adorable."

Ariadne
bit her lips to keep from smiling.

Doc
Doc looked at Ari. He could tell she was amused. "What? I am not allowed to have a Chihuahua?"

Hannah Lynn
"Not really. But the night is just starting." Hannah admitted with a shrug of her shoulders. "Speaking of contacts-I think I heard there were bands here or something? Maybe someone to reach out to for your pub?" She suggested, after her finger had dropped as to not be awkardly pointing at the guy from across the room. "He said we were 'related,' whatever that means. I'm guessing vampire wise or something."

Amalea
"I hope you like bigger dogs," she murmured ever so softly. Taking a sip of her wine, she smiled, "She sounds adorably sweet. I can't wait to meet her."

Ariadne
'No, no... it's just very... edible, for say, a large bird of prey."

Zodiac
She had heard the timber of Doc's voice jump a bit, so she focused in on the conversation for a moment, only to turn her back in his direction as she tried not to laugh. "Jen! Jen! Docotr Nilson has a Taco Bell dog!"

Zodiac
"What?" Jennifer glanced in Doc's direction, then back to Zo. The 2 women busted out in hysterics.

Doc
Doc sighed and pressed his lips together. He would let them have their fun. What kind fucktard would disown their loyal pet, cause someone else made fun of them? Well not him. "Then it behooves Molly and I to stay away from birds of prey. No problem." He lifted an eyebrow.

Lancaster dArt
Freddie hummed as he thought about it; the roster for the live music at Lancaster was mostly full, he'd been told, and there was live music more often than not (more often on the weekends, when it was required). But he supposed it couldn't help to reach out. More contacts were better than none. Across the room a couple of women started laughing hysterically. At what? He couldn't know. Blinking, he glanced back at Hannah and then toward the bar. "Do you want anything? I can ask the tender about the bands at the same time..."

Ariadne
"Probably, yes. I'm never in that neighborhood anyway."

Hannah Lynn
"I don't think they have anything for special employees and employers." She said, though Hannah wasn't really certain if that was true or not. She doubted it though. "But, you should get something and mingle." She nudged him, vocally. "I was just about to read about...drywall." She flashed a brochure for some home remodeling specialist that Hannah picked up, along with many other brochures just to read and get a feel for how people advertised their businesses. Next year she would bring something like this for Iris' business. And Freddie's if he wanted her to. "Riviting stuff." She said, almost rolling her eyes.

Zodiac
"Don't do the Snow Owl thing around Doc's dog." Jennifer whispered, bringing another round of laughter from the pair

Doc
"Then it is a moot point." he looked from Ari to Amalea, "If you could email me the directions, I will try to get her dropped off before too late tomorrow.. I would like to kow when her labor starts. If I can fit it in my schedule I want to be able to be there for at least part of it."

Amalea
An eyebrow raised at the sigh. She mentally tapped him, ~I was being serious....I really do hope you don't mind German Shepards..~ It was going to be rather awkward if he didn't. "She'll be safe from birds at the Sanctuary. The outdoor play area is protected."

Doc
Dod looked at Amalea, and replied telepathically, ~I cannot honestly say I have been around one.. They look like a regal animal. ~ Aloud he said, "She's heavily pregnant it is far too cold for her to be outside in her condition."

Amalea
She laughed mischievously telepathically ~Yet.~ "I can email them as soon as I get home and you can stop by any time. They'll absolutely notify you and she won't go outside now, but it's there for the future."

Lancaster dArt
"What do you mean? I'm sure they would..." he said. How many events had he been to in the past? And he knew vampire blood could be found, easily enough. Lancaster's stocked blood, sold it to those who needed it. Why wouldn't this place? He couldn't tell easily, anymore, who was vampire and who wasn't. But surely there were some present. "I'll ask. If they have something, do you want something?"

Doc
Doc gave Amalea a look, "Thank you,.. " He said, as realized she must have one, that she kept at the sanctuary, then turned his attention to his still unfinished drink. He was doing well. He held his tongue, he didn't piss off the fledge, and he was still on his first drink. it bode well for his resolutions. He glanced over the crowd. "I am surprised at the number of people.. I do not know here.."

Hannah Lynn
"Sure." She said, before Hannah glanced around the room, trying to pin point who, if anyone was someone she should make a point to meet. Really, it was like a needle in a haystack and truthfully, the only thing on her mind was the dozens of questions that weren't related to anything going on tonight.

Doc
GM: Screenshot taken. All names currently listed will receive $500.00))

Zodiac
She looked at the one who had been speaking to the other whose aura had changed. "Be right back." she told Jennifer as she got up and slowly approached the woman. One of her tri-folds in hand.

Lancaster dArt
"Okay. I'll be right back," he said, pressing a kiss to Hannah's temple before wandering over to the bar. He looked at home, there; though he was now human he still walked and talked like an Allurist. Perhaps why he had become an Allurist to begin with. Words came easy, and soon enough he was laughing with the bartender (who indeed did have what Freddie was looking for).

Amalea
"Anytime." Amalea smiled lightly. She finished her glass, placing it on the bar behind them with a nod to the bartender. "I'm not, not really. There's a ton of businesses in the city." She smiled her thanks as she retrieved the refilled glass. "There's not as many tasting stations as I expected though, given the number of restaurants in the city."

Zodiac
She stood in front of the woman and smiled. One hand offering her the tri-fold while the other drew a question mark with the other.

Hannah Lynn
It wasn't long before Hannah wasn't alone again. A brochure was offered and she took it. "Thank you." She said, glancing at the brochure. "So you're the owner?" She asked, wondering more about the woman's business. "Is there any real claim to this stuff? I mean...I've heard of scams from people who can predict the future and stuff..." She trailed off. Was it rude to ask that? She hoped not, but her claim was true.

Hannah Lynn
(brb going mobile)

Zodiac
She smiled brightly, then made a gesture from her forehead to the woman's. Her mental voice soft, but friendly. "It depends on how much you expect to get out of it, I supose."

Doc
It was as he was looking over the crowd, he spied Elliot. "Speak of the devil.. or.. the dumped." He gestured toward Elliot. He tossed back the rest of his drink. "Time for a refill, I will be back in a few." Doc grinned knowingly, at Amalea and Ari, and made his way through the crowd toward the bar.

Ariadne
was pretty sure she was still at the bar, but she leaned back and watched what could be a potentially very interesting interaction.

Amalea
She turned slightly wondering what mayhem was about to unfold. She was quite certain there was a table or something behind her she could duck under if **** hit the proverbial fan.

Lancaster dArt
A glance over his shoulder assured Freddie that Hannah wasn't just hanging out on her own -- she was doing her thing, mingling. There were others at the bar, too, near to where Hannah had previously pointed; none had approached him, however. So they must have been mistaken, and didn't know him at all. He offered vague smiles and nods of amicable greeting, as one does to strangers on the street. After tapping a phone number into his phone given to him by the bartender regarding bands, Freddie waited for the guy to prepare his drinks.

Doc
Doc stood a few feet from Elliot, waiting his turn to order his refill. He said nothing to Elliot. Mostly because there was something wrong with this Elliot. It looked like Elliot. But that was all. There was no familiar vampire aura to him. No recognition in his look. So Doc waited patiently for his turn, and appraised him while he waited. There was a flicker of recognition as things began to fall into place. It was real. Doc starting running the iterations in his mind.

Hannah Lynn
That was unexpected. Hannah smiled, then shrugged. "I suppose there are two types of clients. The skeptical and the hopeful in most cases?" She inquire

Doc
GM: Screenshot taken. All names currently listed will receive 500 rpp))

Zodiac
"Indeed. All I can say is I have done this for most of my life. I do not con or trick anyone. I simply explain what I see. People do keep coming back to me so I must be doing something right. I think an old saying covers my point. A fortune teller will tell you what you want to hear. A witch will tell you the truth.".

Ariadne
Every time.. ))

Hannah Lynn
Hannah smiled at that, her eyes moving to find Freddie, who was by the unknown guy. She tried to focus on the woman and Freddie, but found that to be difficult and rude. "So, you're a witch then? Black cats, spells, and everything in between?" Her attention shifted right back to the woman

Hannah Lynn
"Oh! If so, I imagine you have a lot of books." Business plug for Iris! Hannah opened her clutch and offered a card. "If one ever needs page restoration, or something.." She smiled

Lancaster dArt
Freddie received the drinks and thanked the bartender, then nodded politely to the guy who was waiting before passing him and heading back over to Hannah. He passed her the drink -- it wouldn't be the same as the blood she had taken from him, but it might be okay. She didn't have to drink it all if she wasn't into it. He didn't interrupt; just hung back, while she was talking to the other woman.

Zodiac
She glanced over her shoulder and saw what was dividing the girl's attentions. "Yes. All that stuff." she took the card and a grin emerged on her face. "You work for Iris Von Drol?"

Hannah Lynn
"I do! Do you know her?" Hannah asked, wondering silently if witches could really be a thing before taking the drink. "Thanks, babe." She said appreciatively, deciding if vampires, blood thieves and other things could exist, then why not witches?

Lancaster dArt
Freddie would wait until the perfect opportunity to slip into the conversation, if it came up -- though it appeared to be one sided. He realised that the other woman must be using some form of telepathy.

Zodiac
Her mental laughing was rich. "Oh yes, I do know Iris. You could say I 'made' her even." She winked at the girl. "When you see her again, please tell my 'child' that Zodiac misses her company." she nodded to the man with the changed aura and smiled in greeting

Doc
Doc nodded to the bartender, "Same as before..Johnny Walker Blue.. " His voice is absent and distant. He was preoccupied by what he had he just learned. Was Amnesia part of the process? A side effect? He knew that had to be some sort of side effect. Amnesia was relative painless one; all told. Most vampires faked their deaths, so their families wouldn't try to find them. He never had, because none of his family cared to contact him, so there was no point. If Elliot had.. the amnesia was a small price to pay.. if that was the only side effect. Finally getting his drink, he wandered back the girls, more preoccupied than before.

Hannah Lynn
"Oh!" Hannah said with a laugh. Small world, it seemed. "I'll pass along the message." She promised before trading hands with the drink and putting one around Freddie. "Have you met Freddie?" She asked, before continuing. "He owns a pub in town..." Hannah trailed off, wondering if the two had met

Amalea
The confrontation she expected hadn't occurred which was curious. Not only that, but Doc looked lost in thought. What on earth had just happened? A small sip of her drink later, she commented lightly. "Penny for your thoughts."

Zodiac
He did look familiar, but she could not put a name to the face. Zo placed her palms together and bowed slightly at the waist. She made the same gesture to his forhead before she 'spoke'. "Greetings to you. Have you endured some sort of tramua recently, sir?"

Doc
Doc looked at her, ~He's ******* human. Apparently there is some merit to the cure? But it can't be that easy. He didnt recognize me. And I can live with that..because as much of an asshole I am.. he was worse. And.. at least now.. He wont be able to turn anymore fuckwits.~ Then he a small measured sip.

Lancaster dArt
Freddie grinned at the woman in turn, offering a hand as he was introduced. He opened his mouth to try to explain, if they'd met before, why he could not remember. The question, sent to his mind, was... well, forward. He glanced at Hannah, then back again. "I uhm. I suppose you could say that," he said, his voice a deep rumble.

Doc
GM: Screenshot taken. All names currently listed will receive $500.00))

Zodiac
"Forgive my bluntness." she apologized."But I can see in your aura you have endured something recently."

Hannah Lynn
It seemed Freddie and the woman were having a conversation,, much like she had been having. Hannah lifted the drink to her nose, smelled it, then decided to take a sip. A small face accompanied that sip.

Amalea
A frown flitted across her face momentarily as she mulled over the thoughts. So the cure was not only real, but it had surfaced. ~So either he pilfered the cure from the facility or he knows who has it. I wonder if he or Hannah realizes the folly of him coming here tonight? You won't be the only one to sense that which means he'll end up hounded, or worse, by those who want to get their hands on it.~

Lancaster dArt
"My aura?" he asked. It wasn't in disbelief -- he'd been able to pick up other people's emotions when he was a vampire, so he assumed that this was... well, not the same. But similar. And the woman was clearly a telepath... "Yeah...."

Lancaster dArt
His phone buzzed in his pocket. Retrieving it, Freddie sighed. "Sorry. There's an emergency at the pub. All the joys of owning a place, right?" he said, swooping in for a kiss from Hannah and downing his drink. "I've got to go. Stay, mingle. Meet me later?"

Doc
Doc nodded ever so slightly ~He didn't recognize me.. for all I know, his brain is mush. He may not have the IQ to realize what bad move this was.~ His gaze drifted over to the aforementioned mush brain, just in time to see Elliot kiss Hannah. "****.. " Doc sighed. "Poor Kid." However, Doc did not elaborate to anyone what his comments may or may not have meant.

Zodiac
She smiled as the pair kissed. Zo nodded as the man took his leave of them, then turned her attentions back to the woman. "If he has done what I think he has, I am not sure it is wise to leave him unsupervised. Depending on who he was, not all will greet him with open arms and understanding."

Hannah Lynn
"He hasn't done anything." Hannah said almost too quickly. "Sorry. You're being helpful, but..." her eyes drifted to the unknown man who had some things to say about freddie. Elliot. "Nothing that bothers anyone, that is. His life." She expanded, before nodding. ""But you're probably right...excuse me." She set the drink down and left seconds after Freddie.

Zodiac
"Be safe. The both of you." she called after the girl as she left. Who was he? He had to be someone she noticed in a gathering like this before. She had seen the unusual attention the Doctor had given him earlier. Obviously this was someone not on Doc's list of faves. She made her way back to where Jennifer was still doing sales pitches to people and retook her seat.

Amalea
Lea shook her head ever so slightly. ~True. But she should. I hope they have a good place to retreat to if things should go south once this gets out. I suspect a lot of people will want answers on various questions.~ She noted Zodiac's interest in the pair with a slight frown. "Indeed." She didn't bother to ask which he meant; it didn't matter, really. It fit both of them at the moment.

Zodiac
"Be safe. Both of you." she called after the girl. Who was he? Possibly someone she encountered in a gathering like this in the past.She had noticed the unusual attention Doc had focused on the man as well, so perhaps her obsevation was not so far fetched. She turned and made her way back to where Jennifer was still playing Q and A with people and took a seat.

Doc
Doc raked a hand through his hair. This was a situation like no other he had come across. Aloud he said, "I do not know. There are too many unknowns. Too many variables. She's a child. A baby. She has no idea of the dynamics at work. This could be bad... really bad. ..or he could be the luckiest ******** walking.."

Doc
GM: Screenshot taken. All names currently listed will receive 500 rpp ))

Rudy
Rudy walked in this really wasnt his type of place. He ran a hand through his hair at a attempt to not look quiet so dishelveled. He wouldnt be in here but it was so ******* cold outside and anywhere that was public and warm was welcome at the moment he looked around for a place he could camp for a bit and decided the bar was his best choice

Amalea
Her red tresses shook. "I'm going with really bad given the issue and all the potential variables." She kept her voice lowered as to not attract undue attention. "Depends how the news spreads, I think."

Doc
Doc nodded to Rudy, before addressing Amalea, "Sword maker.. He's good." THen he added telepathically, ~But stay the **** away from him.. he is short five eggs from a dozen.. He can be fine one minutes.. and tossing people out windows the next..~ Aloud he said, "Keep the news close to your vest. This is the sort of **** that can drag innocent down."\

Zodiac
She spied the newcommer and smiled. This one she recognized. "Well, avast, it be Rudy the 'master baiter' she laughed in his thoughts. "It's been too long since I enjoyed an evening of fishing."

Rudy
Rudy nodded to Doc. Then a smile spread across his face as he turned looking for the lady he knew the Thoughts had come from He got up and moved over to her "Well Miss Zodiac " He enveloped the woman in a hug " It has been many a moon since we have met How are you doing with your hot self ?"

Zodiac
She laughed and returned the embrace. "Oh, you know. The things most hot selfs do normally. And how are the pair of you doing?" She remembered binding him to his beloved, Rose, a couple of years back.

Amalea
"Evening," she smiled politely and nodded. She turned slightly to look at Doc as she switched easily to telepathic ~Story of my life. Seem to be an extraordinary number of them around here.~ She had to wonder if it was a side effect of being a vampire or if the insane were just more likely to become undead. A slight nod prefaced her agreement, "Of course, somethings are not for sharing."

Rudy
Rudy froze for a moment then he got ahold of himself his hand went nerveously back to his hair pushing it back as he tried to place the smile back on his face .. "Umm Rose is gone she disapeared has been gone for a couple of years now ..." he smiled weakly

Zodiac
A frown crossed her face as the gypsy grabbed both of his hands in hers and held them tightly. "I am so sorry. I did not know. The two of you seemed so happy together."

Doc
Doc was more than a little preoccupied. Amnesia as a symptom could be anything from something as simple as the mind protecting itself from a traumatic memory.. to a shift in personality due to frontal lobe injury. This would result in a change in personality. Though usually not noticed as a mjor thing in the early years after the TBI, but Physicians were recognizing more and more how the subtle changes in personality get worse with each passing year, typically followed with violence. "I am not hopeful for a positive outcome."

Amalea
"Neither am I, honestly." She took a sip of her drink, swirling it lightly. "It's too much to ask given the circumstances. No matter what, someone isn't going to have their happy ever after."

Rudy
Rudy didnt quite know what to say they had been happy insanely happy it was why it was so disconcerting when she disapeared she had the ablilitys to Reach out to him and he had searched for her high and low she had just vanished off of the face of the planet . He had hired detectives and everything if she was to be found she would have been. "Yeah we were " he shrugged his shoulders. " I no longer feel her .... she is just gone and there isnt anything i can do about it Ive made my peace with it I dont have a choice its either that or die and apparently i dont have the willpower to do that I tried "

Doc
Switching to telepathy, he added ~I am not sure .. where my obligation lies. He is human now. A choice he obviously made. But his spawn. Hannah. Do I let her suffer because her sire was a **** asshat? Or do I attempt to make her see she needs to distance herself? Realizing .. that any attempt I make.. could push her further away.. and thereby into more risk?~

Zodiac
"Oh, you poor dear." she tried to comfort him. "I went through something similar myself years ago. Apparently 'eternity' has its limits even for us."

Doc
1145 GM: Screenshot taken. All names currently listed will receive $500.00))

Amalea
It was a hard choice. The red-head sighed softly as she replied in kind. ~It's obvious she's loyal to him and doesn't seem to be inclined to leave him even with this choice. I think you're correct it could push her away further. At this point, it might be best to keep the information close, hope anyone else who noticed does the same and just let Hannah know you're available if needed. I suspect she will need to be the one to come to you.~

Rudy
smiled "Yeah it does but hey we are still here ... Can i buy you a drink ? by the way has anyone ever told you You are ******* hot my dear ?"

Zodiac
A tinge of color came into her cheeks for a second. "Yes, you can, and yes they do." she smiled. "All the time. Except for the ones with no taste or are smart enough to know you do not try and seduce a gypsy without expecting some issues."

Doc
Doc nodded. She had the female point of view, and the youth point of view. She made valid points. Points he would not discount. But.. he sighed, ~How long do I wait for her to come to me? What if she is not the sort to realizse she is in over her head? What if he threatens her? Or what if she is immobilized~ by fear?

Doc
GM: As the clock near Midnight the PA came to life.. “We are seconds away from Midnight and ringing in the brand new year of 2018! We bid you farewell 2017. A good prosperous year for us. May 2018 be equally so for everyone of Harper Rock!”

Amalea
~You're overthinking it.~ It was a mild chastisement; there wasn't much he could do at this moment so there was no reason to try to work it all right now. ~Ideally? As long as it takes. I don't think pushing will help in this case. But... I think keeping an eye and ear for information is your best bet. Pass along anything you get and she may warm to you.~

Doc
GM: The music stopped. The countdown began, a few voices at first but then more and more joined as it neared the final few seconds, “10. 9. 8. 7. 6. 5. 4. 3. 2. 1!! HAPPY NEW YEAR!!”

Zodiac
"OOOOOH!" she grabbed Rudy's hand as well as Jennifer's as the clock hit midnight.

Doc
1200 GM: Screenshot taken. 3 Names will be drawn for 5000 rpp - Congratulations!!))

Rudy
looked around he hadnt even realized that it was New Years ..." Well Happy New Year" He turned and grabbed the woman and planted a lip lock on her then let her go smiling cheekily

Doc
Doc was startled at how quickly the evening went, but he forgot his previous thoughts and gave Amalea a grin, and opened his arms, "Happy new year Kid"

Amalea
Where had the night gone? It seemed as though she had only just arrived. Though she had to admit, this was far preferable to last year and the unveiling of Enver's birthday suit. Amalea smiled, giggling softly as she slipped forward to hug Doc, "Happy New Year!"

Zodiac
"ACK! I been kissed by a guy! I have male germs!" she laughed in his mind. "Happy New Year, dear one. If you ever want to talk, you know where I can be found." She turned to Jennifer and wrapped her in an embrace and kissed her as well. "Well, one more year and our act is still on the road."

Doc
Doc gave Amalea a hug, and whispered, "Thank you for letting me be in your life.."




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This thread was submitted via a live roleplay chat in the Harper Country Pub area. Participants and rewards were: Alaric von der earned 2984 RPP. Ember March earned 2216 RPP. Doc earned 4309 RPP. Hannah Lynn earned 2771 RPP. Amalea earned 2158 RPP. Zodiac earned 1990 RPP. Ariadne earned 524 RPP. Lancaster dArt earned 1422 RPP. Rudy earned 549 RPP.