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Post by Nyte on Feb 19, 2020 1:29:37 GMT -5
Henry didn't much care for vampire history. Who rose into and fell out of power made no difference to him. Even if Vincent weren't an upper class nobleman who was an elder Henry would have hunted him to the end of the world and beyond. However, when Adelaide mentioned that her mother was a human and had apparently willing given herself over to a vampire he hid the surprise behind a blank expression as best he could. All the years he'd spent plotting his revenge he didn't imagine Vincent had any capacity for love within his dead heart. Yet apparently he kept a tight ring of family close to him. Maybe.. No, Vincent was a monster and he wouldn't be persuaded otherwise because of a pretty girl. He'd set his mind to kill Vincent Bennett and he was dead set on accomplishing it.
When she asked him if he really wanted the opportunity of added responsibility he gave a soft, indifferent shrug. "A little obligation never hurt anyone." He replied. "I came to the party to see the Bennett estate, the guests that would be attending and perhaps watch as some hopeful fools fell over themselves trying to earn the favor of the guest of honor. I'm happy to say that I'm rather pleased with how things turned out though. Regardless of who has a temper." He smirked and then glanced over his shoulder as he heard the sound of a door slamming coming from the inside. Apparently the discussion wasn't going as desired by one of the parties. He couldn't imagine Vincent not winning the argument though. Henry scoffed. "Childish." He muttered under his breath and then finally took a drink of the dark liquid Vincent had served him back in the study.
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Post by Blindside Tex on Feb 19, 2020 12:09:04 GMT -5
Adelaide listened carefully to his words, she watched his reactions. His blank stare when she mentioned that her mother was in fact a human caused a bit of curiosity to peak. Not many knew her mother was a human. His response made her think that he already knew. Or maybe he was thinking of something else in that moment and forgot to allow a reaction? When he shrugged in response to her questions a smile curved up her lips again. Obligation. That was what he was calling it. “So you merely came for the entertainment? To watch the nobles.” She let out a laugh before she took a sip from her glass. “Certainly there are more entertaining things to do. Though, I am glad that you came.” She glanced to him again before she stood and turned. Her eyes looked to the house a moment. “Childish yes.” She spoke, she’d heard the door slam as well. Her brows tucked together as she focused on the home. She didn’t seem worried though, just curious, as she was with most things.
Soon enough footsteps approached from the shadows of the home. Vincent walked forward with a stone cold expression, the one that he always seemed to have. He cleared his throat slightly. “Adelaide.” He nodded to her as he came to the two. He looked to the small pond and then to the lovely moon. “It seems that our night is drawing to an end.” He spoke before he looked to his grand daughter once again for a moment. Vincent then turned his attention to Henry. “Thank you for your assistance tonight. You’ve kept my sweet Adelaide safe and brought her home in one piece.” He didn’t pull his eyes from Henry. It was a long moment of pause before Vincent drew in a breath to speak once again. “I must apologize for the actions of Mister Martin. I can assure you he will be on his best behavior this coming evening at the dinner party. Though, you handled his hostility quite well.” He made the comment before he looked to Adelaide. “Say goodnight to your guest. I must have a word with you before you lay down.” Vincent looked back to Henry. “Good night, Henry.” He spoke and without another word he walked back to the mansion and disappeared inside once again.
Adelaide was quiet as her grand father spoke, she held the same sweet smile that she’d had at the masquerade. As he left she lifted her eyes to look to Henry once again. “It seems I have….obligations. Hm?” She stepped forward to him and searched his eyes a moment. “This evening was lovely, Henry. Do not think poorly of yourself because of what you are. You fight it. Do you not?” She had noticed that he didn’t drink the blood like she did. He seemed to take it in short sips when most commoners would guzzle down such a fine blend of blood. She reached up and cupped his cheek then, her eyes gazed into his a long moment. “I will see you soon.” She leaned up and placed a kiss upon his cheek before she turned and walked toward the mansion. She made her way up the stairs and to her grand father’s study. When she entered she felt a pit form in her stomach. Her steps faltered slightly.
“Oh do come in.” Nicholas sat in one of the two chairs in front of Vincent’s desk. “Have a seat. You’re the lady of the hour after all.”
Vincent sat with a glass of whiskey before him his cold grey eyes looked to her. “Come on in, Addie.” He motioned toward the chair. “We must discuss several things.” Adelaide stepped forward, she twisted the empty glass about in her hands as she took a seat before her grandfather. She glanced to Nicholas with a blank expression, unlike her normal smile that she shared with him. She then looked back to Vincent and watched as he took a drink from his whiskey glass. He set it down and let out a sigh before his eyes settled in on her once again. “Tonight. Henry will be eliminated from the competition.” He spoke his voice was even toned, his eyes never left her. “Nicholas will be the victor. Do you understand? He is to be your husband. The other two are merely for the rush of anticipation for the other nobles. It makes it more exciting when they feel as though they are watching a competition.” Vincent looked to Nicholas then for a moment before his eyes settled back in on Adelaide. “I can’t have you running around the city with that commoner. It doesn’t look good for our family, Addie. Do you understand? Have I made myself clear?”
Adelaide took in a breath. This was exactly what she expected. She knew that things wouldn’t end up well when Nicholas came running after her. Then again, she knew that abandoning his side wasn’t the best of ideas. But the thought of adventure...the thought of spending time with someone she could speak to...someone that seemed to truly listen to her...that was more of an exciting thought than anything else. “I understand.” Adelaide spoke her voice soft, her eyes looked away from her grandfather.
Vincent finished off his glass of whiskey, “Now then. Would you take her to bed, Nicholas? It’s getting late.”
“I can--….” Adelaide began to speak but the cold stare from her grandfather caused her to stop speaking. She clenched her jaw slightly as she looked to Nicholas whom had a triumphant smirk upon his lips.
Nicholas stood and held his hand forward. “Of course, I’ll see her to her room.” He lifted her from her seat and wrapped her arm through his. “Good night, Vincent.” He spoke as he led her from the room. His grip was tight on her arm as he led her down the hallway.
“You can let go.” Adelaide spoke, her voice full of frustration.
“Oh, no, no. Sweet Addie, I must see to it that you make it to your room for the night.” Nicholas turned a wicked grin in her direction as he continued to lead her down the hallway. Silence nestled in over them as she was taken to her room. When Nicholas pushed the door open she expected him to release her. The door slammed and the next moment she felt her back crash into the wall. Nicholas held both of her wrists tightly above her head, his body crushed against hers. “You.” He growled, his fangs visible. “You made me look like a fool, Adelaide.” His eyes were darker than any of the shadows in the room. Fueled by rage.
Adelaide struggled against him, “Let go.” She thrust her knee against him, though there wasn’t much of a punch behind it because he was so close to her.
Nicholas cackled as he held her there. “You don’t get it do you?” He questioned as he changed his grip so that one of his hands held both of her wrists. He ran his fingertip down the side of her face. “You belong to me, Adelaide. Your grandfather has already secured your future for you. Now stop fighting it.” He gripped her jaw.
Adelaide’s eyes were golden as she took in quick breaths. “You don’t own me.” She spoke in a growl. She managed to dislodge an arm from his grip and she threw a punch forward which clocked him in the side of his head.
Nicholas snarled as he stumbled back. Though he gripped onto her quickly as she tried to rush to the other side of the room. He tackled her to the floor where he pinned her down. “Oh. But I do.” He snapped as he gripped her jaw. “Fight me as much as you want, Sweet Addie. You’ll never win.” He cackled before he gripped at her wrists once again. “See?” He whispered into her ear. “Just, breathe.”
Adelaide screamed then as his fangs sank into her neck. It was taboo for a vampire to drink from another. However, the blood of a pure vampire such as herself gave strength to a lesser vampire. Adelaide’s body tensed as she lost the ability to fight against him, her cries quickly became softer until silence filled the room. Her eyes fluttered as she felt his fangs slip from her skin. Her entire body felt icy cold as she gazed up to him. He might have chuckled as he dabbed blood from his chin, but her hearing was muddled and her vision was nothing more than a blur of lights and darks.
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Post by Nyte on Feb 19, 2020 22:22:15 GMT -5
The time spent in the garden with Adelaide was cut short as Vincent came outside to summon Adelaide in for the evening. He nodded when Vincent thanked him once more and complimented him on his own actions, but he could tell that something was off. There was a distinct demeanor change in Vincent this time and that put Henry on edge. Was Vincent really that unstable when it came to his moods are was something said in that office that turned Vincent against him? "Good night, M'Lady." He told Adelaide as she walked away and he was left to see his own way out of the large estate.
Henry sighed and looked down to the glass still in his hands. The warmth had long faded from the liquid and he didn't have much of an appetite at the moment. So he walked back inside and handed the glass off to the first maid he saw and then made his way towards the front doors to make his leave.
The night was drawing to a close but Henry's mind was racing. What exactly had transpired between Nicholas and Vincent? What was the deal the two had and why was Vincent so dead set on bartering off his granddaughter whom he had coveted up until this point? Did he simply prize her as a trading piece? A pawn in his grand scheme of things? No.. it felt like he was missing something. Henry was so wrapped up in his thoughts that he wasn't paying attention much to his surroundings until he heard the flap of what sounded like leather from behind him.
Henry dropped down from his standing position mid-stride and ducked underneath a silver blade that swung over his head where his neck had been only a moment before. The attacker had thought the weapon would find its mark and swung with all his might which caused the sword to bite into the cobbled stone of an archway that Henry had just walked through from the Northern district to the southern one. Henry kicked his leg out and swept the feet out from under his attacker then turned to see another vampire, teeth bared, and cloaked in black clothing. "Oh well that's just not fair." Henry commented.
"Die, peasant." The man hissed at him and smirked as a glint of silver shone from the shadows of a nearby building. Henry dodged again this time back peddling as two men were now on the offensive. Both held wickedly curved short swords and moved with the speed and grace that their dark heritage granted them. Much faster than a human could have anticipated or avoided, but Henry ducked and weaved around their blades effortlessly as he reached into his coat pocket to fish out a pair of black leather gloves and slipped them on over his hands.
"You two must be newly turned." He told the would be assassins with a smirk as he tucked the gloves on between the fingers of his right hand. "Let me show you what I can do." He mused and reached behind his back to pull slender dagger from its sheath. He parried one incoming attack and then lunged forward and sank his blade straight into one man's chest where his heart lay. The man hardly made any noise as he immediately fell dead and then turned to dust on the cobbled road.
"A blessed blade?!" The second vampire hissed before returning to his attack against Henry, a bit more conservative this time. \
"Yes, got it from an old friend." He commented and then parried another attack before he pressed in an offensive of his own. Henry was precise, quick and was obviously familiar with his weapon's weight and handling. He put his attacker back on his heels and Henry eventually sank the blade into the man's shoulder which caused him to yell out as smoke rose from the wound as the holy blade burned his tainted flesh. "Who sent you?" Henry hissed into the man's face as he stood over him, pinning him to the ground.
"Vincent.. Bennett.." The man choked out through the pain. "Paid a king's ransom to have you removed from the running." He stated.
"Hmm, too bad you'll never collect." Henry scoffed and then tore his blade through the man's chest - killing him instantly as he evaporated like the first. "What a pain.." Henry said with a sigh and looked to the weapons and remaining clothing of his assassins. "Hmm.."
*****
Before returning home Henry cleaned up the scene of the attack, bundled the clothes together over the swords and then threw them into the river off the bridge on his way to his borrowed mansion. He planned on acting like nothing had happened. Which would be a surprise to Vincent the following day and he would enjoy the look on his face as he watched Henry walk in unscathed.
*****
The following evening Henry rose from his bed, bathed and dressed himself accordingly for a dinner party with the wealthy. He was already growing tired of the stuffy clothing he was expected to wear to these sort of events. Fifty years he had gone without dressing so formally and now he had dressed up twice in a single week.
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Post by Blindside Tex on Feb 20, 2020 10:12:03 GMT -5
Adelaide was lost in a daze, much like a human that a vampire had drank nearly dry. Nicholas stood somewhere. Where was he…? She tried to focus, but she found it hard to even focus on her breathing. She took in shaken breaths as her fingers gripped to the wooden floor. Her muscles weren’t quite listening to her.
**
Nicholas stood over Adelaide a smirk upon his lips as he watched her struggle. This, wasn’t the first time that he’d drank from her. The funny thing about a vampire is if enough blood was taken the victim wouldn’t remember a thing. He knew exactly how much to take because he preferred his victim to be alive. He liked the rush of it. The hunt. He turned as the door pushed open. Fran let out a cry as she saw Adelaide on the floor, she rushed forward only for Nicholas to grab onto her. “Ahh, Francesca.” He spoke as he held her. “Can I trust that you’ll say nothing of this?” He asked as he gazed into her eyes. “Hm? Or do I have to take care of you as well?” He grinned wickedly, his fangs flashed in the dim light of the room.
Fran took in shaken breaths. “I won’t say anything. Just let me help her.” She pleaded. Fran wiggled from his grip. “How could you do this to her?” She questioned as she rushed and grabbed a towel to clean Adelaide up. “You’re supposed to protect her, Nicholas. Not nearly kill her.” Fran snapped, her eyes looked to the man as he stood with the same smug smile that he’d had at the masquerade.
“Oh but I am protecting her, Fran. You just don’t see it that way.” He chuckled. “I’ll see you soon. Don’t forget your promise.” He spoke before he slipped from the room.
Fran let out a long breath. “For your sake Adelaide I hope that commoner figures out a way to win this competition for your hand.” She brushed Adelaide’s hair from her face and gave a sigh, she’d fallen unconscious.
**
As the sun set over the city the door to Adelaide’s room was opened. Fran walked in and lit the lanterns. There wasn’t any indications of what happened the night before. She’d cleaned up the mess for Nicholas, if she didn’t...there was no telling what would happen to her. The Martin family had their ways of keeping people quiet. She knew better than to disobey him. “Good morning, Addie.” Fran spoke as she moved to the curtains to pull them open to reveal the crisp night that had fallen over London.
Adelaide moved slightly, her eyes fluttered open and she rolled to the side. “Fran?” She asked as she slowly sat up.
Fran rushed forward and grasped her shoulders as Adelaide nearly fell from the side of the bed. “Take it slow there, Addie.” She bit her lip slightly. She had to put an end to this. There was no way that she was going to allow Nicholas to take her best friend and do this to her. She’d suspected that he’d done it before, there were a few days that Adelaide was off. She just wasn’t herself. But Fran had attributed it to being out late, to drinking too much...she’d brushed off the idea of a vampire drinking from another…
“What happened?” Adelaide questioned, her hazel eyes were dull this morning. Her skin was more pale than normal, she looked ill...as though death should be knocking on the front door of the mansion. She lifted her hand to rub her neck, it was sore. Though, the injury that Nicholas caused was gone. That was the magic of a vampire, improved healing. Though, with a lack of blood the sore muscles remained.
“You must have drank too much last night. I didn’t even hear you come in.” Fran spoke as she moved to the dresser to find a dress for the dinner party.
“No...” Adelaide shook her head. Her memory was muddled and full of confusion.
Fran stepped over after she’d poured a fresh glass of blood. “Drink this.” She spoke as she knelt before her. “You need to recover from your night. Hm?” She gave a gentle smile. It was painful. She wanted to scream what happened at the top of her lungs. But she couldn’t. Not yet.
**
It took some time for Fran to help Adelaide into her fine dress for the evening. She curled Adelaide’s hair so that it fell in lovely tassels around her face. The dress that she wore was a deep red, but not quite a maroon. It had black stitching to accent it. To add to the style she wore a black long sleeve shoulder coat that accented the dress quite well. The coat clipped just below the top of her dress with a lovely golden brooch. Around her neck Fran had fastened a lovely necklace of gold that ran along her neckline. It was a lovely attire for the evening’s activities.
As per normal Adelaide showed up late to the evenings festivities. As she walked along the bannister of the second story she peered down to the nobles that moved about below. Though a feast was set up this evening, a long table meant for everyone to sit at once dinner was served. She took in a breath, her head was still jumbled. Her eyes still glassy. Though, she was recovering. She heard Vincent announce her presence and then the applause from the nobles as she came down the staircase. She was met by Nicholas whom took her hand and kissed the back of it. “M’lady.” He bowed deeply and smiled to her. “What a lovely evening it is. You look absolutely astonishing.” He released her hand and stood. “Pity, the other two haven’t shown up.” He gave a slight chuckle before he walked off.
Adelaide drew her brows together. Henry. She remembered spending time in the garden with him...but everything after that was jumbled and confused. She glanced about the party. “Then we shall wait for them to show.” She spoke, though Nicholas was long gone. Fran handed her a glass to drink and nodded to her. Adelaide gave a gentle smile before she lifted it to her lips. Her eyes stared to the double doors of the mansion. He had to come. He said he wouldn’t let the others win. Did he have second thoughts? Did he decide not to compete? She took another sip of her drink as she conversed with the nobles. All smiles. She hid her pain rather well. Though her eyes constantly looked to the front door. She perked up slightly as the door pushed open, though her hope fell as she saw yet another noble walk in.
Though this man seemed hurried. She looked over his features. The strong jaw. It looked familiar perhaps. He had a slight limp. He was headed straight toward Adelaide. When he approached her he took in a few quick breaths. “M’lady. Please accept my apologies.” He bowed deeply he took her hand and kissed the back of it. “I was attacked in the streets. Nearly killed by a pack of filthy werewolves.” He gazed into her eyes. “But I knew I must make it to the dinner party that I was so graciously invited to.” This was the man in the red mask. “My name is Reed. Thank you for inviting me.”
“What are you dressed in?” Nicholas scoffed as he stepped over. “You look like a cat dragged you in. Is that blood?” He wrinkled his nose.
Reed looked to his fine attire that he’d put on, there was rips in it from the werewolves. “I was attacked, sir.” He looked to Nicholas with almost dark eyes. “But I came as soon as I could. That did not allow me the option to change my attire.”
Adelaide had already turned her attention away from the bickering men. She listened to a noblewoman as she spoke, though her eyes once again watched the door. Henry had to come. She took another sip of her glass and then laughed as if on key to the woman’s story. She had developed such a knack for idly listening, she didn’t even have to focus on it. She tensed slightly as she heard the knob of the door once again. She found that she held her breath in anticipation.
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Post by Nyte on Feb 20, 2020 11:53:48 GMT -5
Henry opened the door to the mansion, he was running a little late but there had been some sort of incident just inside the gates to the Northern side that he hadn't anticipated. Normally he would have just gone around, hopped the wall like the had the previous night, but the scent of werewolves caught his attention. By the time he made it to where the attack had happened though the action had already dispersed and there was only a few blood smears on the ground. The first person Henry saw was Adelaide, looking towards the door with an almost hopeful expression, and he smiled as he met her gaze then looked to the other guests in the room. "Good evening everyone." He stated as closed the door gently behind him. "Forgive my late entrance. Seems the streets are rather dangerous this evening." When he finally caught sight of the third suitor, standing next to and arguing with Nicholas, he understood just who it had been that had run in with the mutts.
Henry was, of course, unscathed from the previous evening, and showed no signs of stress or worry. He smiled and seemed to be in high spirits as he made his way over to Adelaide to take her hand and kiss the back of her fingers, as was expected, then turned to Vincent who was staring at him with a hint of perplexity in his expression. "I hope my transgression is forgivable?" He asked his generous host.
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Post by Blindside Tex on Feb 20, 2020 19:04:10 GMT -5
Adelaide smiled brightly as her eyes locked on Henry. It was like a wish come true. She’d never wanted someone to be at one of the gatherings so much. But something told her that he needed to be there. Even if she couldn’t remember what happened. When he announced the danger her eyes looked to Reed whom brushed a bit of fresh blood from the back of his hand, his eyes were still focused upon Nicholas. The two men didn’t even notice Henry’s arrival. She offered her hand forward and held her smile as she accepted the kiss upon the backside of her hand.
Vincent had come to Adelaide’s side and stood with his cold grey eyes staring to Henry. Disbelief would have been the right word. Surprise could have been another. “Of course not. Arriving late is something that demands attention. Does it not? For the same reason that Adelaide does not enter the party on time, even when it is in her own home.” He took a drink from his glass. “You ran into danger as well? The other gentlemen ran into a pack of filthy mutts.” He scoffed. “What are our streets coming to?”
Adelaide glanced to her grandfather a moment before she gave a smile. “Well shall we begin? Now that all of our guests are here?” She looked back to Henry.
Vincent gave a nod. “Yes, of course. We shall begin the evenings feast before our activities later.” He stared to Henry once again. “I do hope you’re good at sword play?” He chuckled as he walked off to make the announcement that dinner would begin soon. The guests moved about to grab their seats, many tried to sit near the Bennett family so they could listen in on the conversation.
Adelaide looked to Henry. “Why don’t you lead me to our seats?” She asked before she wrapped her arm through his. “While the other two bicker.” She glanced to Nicholas whom was still busy tearing apart Reed. She led him forward and took her seat, being sure to place him next to her, which made the other two take their seats directly across from them.
As food was placed upon the table a familiar face was among the bunch of waiters. Fran carried over a crystal glass filled only halfway. She placed a hand upon Henry’s shoulder as she leaned in to the table to set his glass down. “I need to speak to you, urgently. It’s about Addie.” She whispered as she’d reached forward. Nicholas didn’t even catch that she’d spoken. Fran stood with a smile upon her lips as others asked her for drinks. She moved about bringing food with the chefs and other such items.
Adelaide sat, her smile upon her lips. Though she wasn’t as lively as normal. Her body was tired. She lifted her glass to her lips and took a long drink as Vincent demanded everyone’s attention once again. She looked to her grandfather as he smiled to the guests. “Tonight, we will have a bit of sword play. Nothing too dangerous that these gentlemen can’t handle. Just a bit of sport.” He smirked. “Or shall we have these men hunt the werewolves that are in our streets? Like the old days?” His grin was a bit more pronounced then, his fangs showed. Those that sat at the table began to speak among one another excitedly. It had been a long time since a hunt was initiated and clearly the streets were becoming unsafe for their kind...
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Post by Nyte on Feb 20, 2020 23:43:23 GMT -5
Henry's expression was non-telling, a polite smile with a look of mild interest, as he listened to Vincent and chuckled as he described the state of the streets. His ending question however made Henry raise an eyebrow with curiosity. Why would Vincent be asking if he knew about sword play? He knew his way around almost any weapon, although he simply remained silent and kept such comments to himself. When Adelaide slipped her arm into Henry's and asked to be escorted to the table while the other two bickered he nodded. "But of course." He replied and gave her a sly wink before walking with her to the table.
He pulled out her seat and helped her sit down then took his own place next to Adelaide and watched with a sort of satisfaction as the other two men begrudgingly took their seats across the table. Reed was more dismayed while Nicholas was outright angry, though he hid it well enough. When the servants came out to serve drinks and deliver food Henry hadn't paid them any mind until he heard the soft, quick voice of a woman whispering in his ear. He glanced up to her as she moved on to help the next guest and Henry recognized her as the woman who had come out to rescue Adelaide from the balcony during the masquerade. Her request would have to wait though as he couldn't excuse himself after just arriving and starting dinner. Not to mention he didn't want the other two to try and take over his seat.
When Vincent started to speak, proposing the sword play and then moving on to the werewolf hunt Henry gave him a look of concern. Most of these pampered vampire brats wouldn't last a moment against an enraged werewolf. They were nearly as strong and fast as a vampire and usually hunted and traveled in packs. Looking over to Reed, Henry couldn't help but think that the man would not return from such a hunt. Lastly they would be competing doing something that Henry did professionally and had done since he was a young boy. The only thing that gave him pause was his own attack the previous night. He had no doubt that some sort of underhanded trick would be played to favor Nicholas.
"I, for one.." Henry spoke up "think a hunt is a wonderful idea. Rid ourselves of the vermin and make the streets safer for our Lady Adelaide." He commented. Knowing that the other nobles in the room would approve of his reasoning. One of the goals of the hunt was to prove that he could protect her.
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Post by Blindside Tex on Feb 21, 2020 21:38:57 GMT -5
Adelaide looked to her grandfather with almost shock in her eyes. His proposal. She couldn’t imagine the three of them going out to fight a pack of werewolves. Especially not as a team. Though her expression softened when Henry spoke up. He took command. The reaction of the group of nobles around the table was incredible. It was as if he’d asked for her hand right there. They gave soft claps and smiles along with nods of their heads.
Reed however looked horrified. He wasn’t adept at fighting. He was a noble boy, raised without a callous upon his hands. He hadn’t even hunted down his own human in his lifetime, though he was quite young, the youngest at the table by far. He glanced to Vincent whom had his grey eyes honed in on him, almost as if he could sense the fear. “It is a great idea indeed.” Nicholas spoke up, his eyes narrowed slightly as he glared at Henry. “We can protect our own kind and see to it that our future remains safe. That our people do not have to fear the vermin of the streets and that our sweet Adelaide is kept safe.”
The table once again chattered and nods came from the nobles, though they didn’t seem as moved as they had been by Henry. Vincent looked to his grand daughter a long moment before he smiled, “What do you say, Adelaide? Shall they hunt down the pack of werewolves? Bring the alpha to his knees and deliver his head? Just like the old days.” He watched her for a reaction.
Adelaide took in a breath, she held the well practiced smile upon her lips. She glanced to Henry, after his moves the night before she didn’t doubt he could at least outrun a werewolf. The mutts weren’t as quick as a vampire that was well versed in using his strength. “I believe it would be a lovely show of the strength and the ability of these three men.” She spoke, her eyes moved to look to Reed whom was nearly shaking with fear, and finally she came to a rest upon Nicholas. She raised her glass. “First we shall feast before we send these brave men out to slay the filthy mutts that darken our city and endanger us all.” She spoke with strength, but her arms that held her glass up quivered slightly. She was still quite weak. She took a long drink of her glass and then gave a nod to her grandfather.
“This shall be a night all of you remember for centuries to come.” He spoke and a ‘here here’ came from the table as the nobles cheered and chattered once again. They then began in on the feast.
Adelaide glanced to Henry a moment before she cut into her freshly grilled steak that had been set before her by one of the chef’s just moments ago. “I hope you know what you’re doing.” She muttered softly. Her eyes then looked to Nicholas whom had another smug smile upon his lips.
“I’ll bring you the head of the alpha, Addie.” He spoke with a grin, “Don’t you worry.” He chuckled then before he started in on his meal. “Don’t be on this commoner having the skill to pull of such a feat.” He scoffed. “The only thing he is good at is washing down a bar. Isn’t that right?” His eyes locked on Henry then.
“I’m n-not so sure that is correct.” Reed spoke up. “Perhaps he is more versed in fighting that you and I? He is not a noble….we haven’t had to fight for anything.” The young vampire glanced to Adelaide a moment before he looked to Henry. Almost as if he knew Henry knew how to hunt properly.
“Oh. I know how to hunt.” Nicholas chuckled darkly. “I’m quite good at it.” He took a drink from his glass. “Wouldn’t you say, Fran?” He eyed her as she came to the table to fill Vincent’s cup.
Fran nearly froze. She bit her lip slightly. “Oh. Yes.” She gave a smile then. “Of course. Haven’t you heard? He’s won a few challenges over his years. Rather tough ones too if I might add.” She glanced to Henry and cleared her throat, she knew he couldn’t get up and leave, but she didn’t want him to forget. Especially if they were to enter this hunt. Nicholas would be stronger tonight, faster...drinking Adelaide’s blood would allow him that. Something clicked then. It was almost as if Nicholas knew the hunt would be brought up. That was why he did it. She’d frozen next to the table.
“Why don’t you go serve someone something?” Nicholas spoke up before he took another drink from his glass. “Standing around isn’t doing you any good, Fran.”
Fran jolted slightly. “Right. Yes of course.” She spoke before she moved to take care of other guests.
Adelaide glanced down the table to Fran. She had been acting weird all evening. She closed her eyes a moment. It felt like she hadn’t had a drop of blood in days. Yet, she was on her third glass of the evening. Plenty to sustain her and yet she felt so exhausted. She turned her attention to a few nobles that began speaking to her. Asking questions. They commented on the men, applauding her for such handsome choices. Soon enough dinner was over and Adelaide stood from the table. She was gasped by Nicholas whom weaved her through the crowd, chatting away at her about how he was a sure win.
**
Fran grasped the moment. She stepped up with a half full glass in hand, she stood before Henry and offered it forward. “Do you know much of pure vampire blood?” She questioned as she grasped his arm and walked him a bit away from the crowd so that no one could hear. She walked him around a corner and into a hallway that led to a bathroom. “You are in danger during this hunt.” She spoke as she searched his eyes. “Nicholas drank Adelaide’s blood last night I walked in on it. It was not pretty. She didn’t offer it to him he took it.” She spoke in a hushed tone. “You have to beat him. For her sake. Please.” She touched his shoulder. “I can’t speak more now. I don’t want to get caught.” She then slipped into the servant quarters, leaving him standing alone in the hallway.
**
“Ladies. Gentlemen.” Vincent stood upon the staircase with Adelaide at his side. “Shall we get this show on the road?” He grinned. “The men will be armed with 3 silver bullets for their revolver, a dagger and a sword. That is all they get to bring down the pack alpha. The first back with the head of the alpha wins. Second back with a head of another lesser werewolf is second. The third may as well not return.” He chuckled then. The group of nobles cheered. “Adelaide, won’t you offer them their weapons?”
Adelaide gave a nod to her grandfather before she made her way over to a cabinet. She grasped a revolver, a dagger and a sword and walked it to Reed. “May these weapons guide you in your hunt tonight.” She cupped his cheek and placed a quick kiss upon his lips. A favor of good luck. She then gathered the same items for Nicholas. She stated the same line and when she went to kiss him he grabbed her around the waist and dipped her down to place a kiss upon her lips. She’d pushed against him, her eyes widened and she gasped. Though the crowd seemed to miss this as they laughed and clapped away to the display that he had made. Almost as if he was claiming his victory before he even left the mansion.
Adelaide stood before him a moment her eyes gazed into his before she turned and went to the cabinet to draw the last set. She stepped to Henry and offered him his items before she stated the same line. “My favor is with you, Henry.” She spoke as she searched his eyes, she gave a soft smile. She cupped his cheek and placed a gentle kiss upon his lips before she took a step back. “May the moonlight guide you.” This only caused Nicholas to glare in their general direction as the nobles began to chatter excitedly about Adelaide and Henry.
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Post by Nyte on Feb 21, 2020 22:49:28 GMT -5
The scene that played out over the table was all just for show. A display of power and deadly games these nobles seemed keen on playing. Henry liked being in their company less and less. However, after the toast and once the meal had began Henry glanced up from his plate as Nicholas tried to bait him. In a way Nicholas reminded Henry of a school yard bully. Picking fights, causing trouble and making large displays of bravado to prove that he was the best and strongest. He was also immature like a school boy. Did such tactics actually get him very far? Perhaps those in the vampire community humored him due to his status but Henry held no such respect for the man. As Nicholas prodded him, doubting his hunting skill since he was of a lesser class, Henry simply smiled at him with a knowing expression. He wasn't going to give in to these jests. No, and Henry's calm demeanor did seem to set Nicholas on edge, fueling that anger that seemed to always lay just beneath the surface.
When dinner was over Henry sighed and got up from the table. He had eaten just enough to not be rude but not enough to fill his belly completely. Hunting on a full stomach was never a good idea. Made the reflexes sluggish. A bit of hunger kept the senses on edge and not to mention his thirst would fuel his own desire to bring down prey. Whenever Fran approached him though and practically pulled him to the side he followed without protest, more curious than anything in what this woman had to say, and listened as she rushed through her explanation of what had transpired the previous evening.
Henry set his jaw and his eyes shifted back towards the main room as he heard Nicholas laugh, probably at one of his own jokes, and for the first time he felt him get under his skin. It wasn't the fact that he tried to gain an upper hand, Henry was still sure he could take him quite easily, but it was the audacity that he had to force himself onto Adelaide in such a way. Even if she was a vampire she was a woman and demanded a certain aspect of respect. Even when Henry had slain other female vampires in his day he always took care to show the body respect and not to violate them in any way.
As Fran walked away, her explanation complete and not wanting to get caught, Henry gave a low growl and straightened his jacket before heading back out to the main party.
*****
When it finally came time for their weapons to be divided up and the three of them released on the town to begin their hunt Henry had a more serious expression rather than his polite smile. As Nicholas dipped Adelaide down and kissed her he clinched his jaw and held back another growl. Then as Adelaide stood before him he managed one more smile for her as he accepted the weapon and the favor of good luck. "No one can beat me." He whispered to her low enough that no one else could hear his words.
Then as soon as Adelaide had returned to her grandfather's side the sound of a pistol let the competitors know that the hunt was on.
*****
The thing about hunting was it was a patient man's game. Knowing where the prey like to roam, stalking the beasts, and then finally springing your attack when they least expected it. This also allowed Henry to get a full scope of his hunting grounds and figure out where his pray would be before they even got there, and not to mention his opponents.
After a few hours, as hunts weren't often quick, the first to stroll through the gates with his prize was Nicholas. He carried the head of the alpha who had been stalking the streets. Reed showed up second with a lesser wolf's head, beaten and bruised from the ordeal but extremely proud of himself for beating Henry back. Henry, though he had been told not to bother coming back if he was third, walked through the gate of the estate with his head held high and a rope over his shoulder attached to a bag against his back.
The nobles that lined the courtyard watched him as he waltz up the cobbled pathway and looked to the bulging bag on his back. "Sorry for the wait, my friends, I wanted to make sure the streets were truly safe." He commented as he looked to Adelaide with his trademark smile and dropped the bag on the ground as several heads of wolves rolled out and onto the ground at his feet.
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Post by Blindside Tex on Feb 21, 2020 23:13:30 GMT -5
Adelaide watched the men rush off, she let out a breath. “I need to sit down, grandfather.” She spoke as she slipped down the stairs. She sat herself in a plush chair that was placed near a window that looked out to the courtyard of the mansion.
“Still tired?” Fran questioned as she glanced to the nobles that chatted and smiled, they paid no attention to the weak Adelaide. “Here.” Fran held a mug forward. “Drink some tea, Addie.” She gave a soft smile.
Adelaide gave a smile to Fran as she took the warm mug. The steam from the mug cupped her face as she smelled it. “What is this Fran?” She asked.
“Something my mother taught me.” Fran replied as she walked back to return to the crowd.
Adelaide waited patiently. The guests of the party approached her to ask whom she thought would win. They spoke to her of her future. How important she was. The things that she’d heard since she was a child. She was Bennett, she had so much resting upon her shoulders, blah, blah, blah. When she saw movement from the gates of the mansion she stood. Nicholas. The head of the alpha rolled out onto the courtyard cobblestone as he grinned triumphantly. He chuckled as the nobles clapped to him. He stepped forward and took Adelaide’s hand to kiss the back of it. “I did it for you, sweet Adelaide.” He spoke just as Reed had come into the courtyard.
Vincent grinned as he clapped, a chuckle came over his lips. The commoner would be knocked from the competition. Just as he wanted it. His grand daughter couldn’t be seen with such a ruffian. “Well ladies and gentle men, we have our two--….”
That was the moment that Henry had come through the gates with the rest of the pack and then some upon his back. The nobles gasped and chattered. That was a feat much larger than brining down a single alpha. Vincent blinked a few times as he stepped forward. He placed the toe of his boot against a head and rolled it from side to side. “Impressive.” He spoke as his eyes lifted to look to Henry. “You’ve certainly made the streets safer, if not just from Adelaide but for us all.” He tilted his head slightly.
Nicholas stood with his arm wrapped around Adelaide’s waist, a scowl upon his face. “He was last! He’s out. That’s the rule.” He pipped up. “You stated it Lord Bennett.”
Vincent turned his gaze to Nicholas. “I stated for him to not return at all. Yes.” He spoke. “However.” He looked back to the heads of the filthy mutts. “He’s killed much more than you this evening, Nicholas. In fact, I would venture to say his kill is worth more than yours.” The nobles cheered. They loved the drama. Vincent chuckled slightly before he looked back to Henry. “Full of surprises, aren’t you?” He had a knowing smile, almost as if he was poking at the fact that he’d sent assassins after Henry the night before. “Though, one with such surprises has to be worth something.” He turned and looked to the nobles that looked to him expectantly. “Bravery, strength...all three men have shown this tonight.” He glanced to the three. Reed still just looked happy to be there. “I’ll not eliminate either of the three this evening.” He spoke with a smirk. “Do enjoy the rest of the party. Come inside. Have a drink. Or two.” He turned, “Dance to your hearts content.” He spoke as he climbed the stairs back into the mansion.
Nicholas led Adelaide inside, his arm held onto her hand. She glanced over her shoulder to Henry as she was tugged along, only for a moment before Nicholas called her attention once again. He took her straight to the dance floor where he twirled her about. She leaned heavily against him, her body not quite ready for the physical requirements of dance. By the time he was finished with her he lifted her by her hips and spun around, gaining a cheer from the nobles before he planted a kiss upon her lips and released her. He tucked a lock of hair behind her ear as he gazed into her eyes. “I told you, you’re mine, Addie.” He whispered before he chuckled and stepped away to grab a drink.
Adelaide wavered slightly as she stood on the dance floor. Her shoulders were grasped by Fran whom gave a sad smile to her. “Come on.” She spoke. “Let’s get you some cool fresh air, hm?” She led Adelaide outside to the balcony where she nearly collapsed. Fran helped her into one of the chairs and paced slightly as she bit her lip. “How can he think this is okay?” She growled as she held her head, trying to think of a way to stop Nicholas.
Adelaide closed her eyes as she lay her head back. “Fran...what are you talking about?” She asked in a soft voice. “How can who think what is okay?” She kept her eyes closed as she spoke.
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Post by Nyte on Feb 21, 2020 23:57:34 GMT -5
Henry wasn't concerned as Vincent came to inspect his prizes. Almost from the beginning Henry knew he wasn't going to be able to catch the Alpha before Nicholas did. Especially with his augmentation thanks to him drinking from Adelaide the night before, but Nicholas wasn't planning on Henry going after the others. The entire pack had been gearing up to go after their alpha's killer and with them so focused on capturing Nicholas they made themselves easy targets for Henry. When Vincent made his commented about Henry being full of surprises Henry tipped his hat to Vincent as he smiled but said nothing. If Henry wasn't worth remembering from thirty years ago he saw no reason to justify his actions now to Vincent, other than to stay in the running.
Henry saw as Nicholas drug Adelaide back inside and to the dance floor as the other nobles followed them in and gathered around to chat, drink and observe for the remainder of the evening. A few brave couples ventured out onto the dance floor with Nicholas and Adelaide. Henry on the other hand remained on the fringes of the room. Several nobles approached him to congratulate him on his hunt and were in awe at the overwhelming display. Henry chuckled and simply stated that the fates were on his side when they asked how he managed to accomplish it, which only added to his overall mystery. No one had found anything out about the man and everyone was curious who he was exactly.
Once Adelaide escaped Nicholas's grip Henry watched as Fran took her out for some fresh air and then he followed after them a moment later. Henry closed the doors behind him as he looked to Fran and gave a nod before walking to stand next to Adelaide's chair. "Something wrong?" He asked then looked back to Fran as he took in her concern expression. "You seem off balance this evening." He stated in a low voice and knelt down before her as he studied her features. Taking note of her pale skin and tired expression.
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Post by Blindside Tex on Feb 22, 2020 0:16:09 GMT -5
Adelaide opened her eyes to Henry’s voice, her vision blurred slightly. A smile curved up her lips. “No, no I’m fine.” She spoke in a soft tone. She gave a soft laugh, “Just a bit too much to drink last night is all.” She gave a sheepish smile. She still couldn’t remember what happened.
Fran grit her teeth slightly, “She doesn’t know.” She spoke up. She bit her lower lip.
Adelaide looked to her friend curiously. “Fran?” She asked, her voice confused. She shook the grogginess from her head and focused in on her.
“Adelaide we can’t...” She glanced into the party. “We can’t talk about this.” She looked to Henry then as if she was backed into a corner. She let out a long breath, “He will kill me if he finds out.” She spoke with a serious expression. “I had to clean up the mess he made.” She motioned toward Adelaide and closed her eyes a moment as she pinched the bridge of her nose as if she was getting a headache.
“Fran….no one is going to kill you.” Adelaide let out a chuckle, a smile upon her lips. “Why would anyone do that? You’re my best friend. Grandfather knows that.”
Fran gave a slow nod before she shook her head. “A friend wouldn’t try to keep something like this a secret.” She crossed her arms over her chest. “Nicholas stole your blood. He drank from you.” She spoke the words in a hushed tone before she fell silent.
The sounds of the city blanketed over the trio on the balcony. Adelaide’s expression turned to shock. Her jaw loosened slightly she reached her hand up to the sore group of muscles upon her neck. Not a wound in sight, but her body still knew of the injury. “It wasn’t drinking….” She muttered. “That...that’s why I can’t remember.” She closed her eyes as she took in the information. She was nothing more than a power source to Nicholas. Something that she doubted even Vincent knew about. Or perhaps he did. Perhaps it was Vincent’s idea.
“I’m sorry, Addie….I...” She glanced inside once again. “Henry, don’t let him take her.” She spoke before she grasped an empty glass and rushed inside as if she was merely bussing glasses.
Moments later Nicholas stepped to the balcony. “Crisp evening tonight.” He spoke with a smile. “Quite the display you made with those heads.” He looked to Henry a moment. “Why don’t you move along? Adelaide has no time for losers.” He grinned then.
“Henry and I were talking.” Adelaide spoke up her hazel eyes opened and looked to him. “You had me for a dance, now if you would allow him to have me for a chat.” She watched Nicholas as his brows pulled together.
“You want to spend time soiling the Bennett name by hanging around a commoner?” Nicholas questioned with a dark chuckle at the end. “Please, entertain us all, Adelaide.” He held his arms out and laughed once again.
Adelaide had closed her eyes again, she didn’t have the energy to contend with him after the dance that he’d put her through.
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Post by Nyte on Feb 22, 2020 0:42:49 GMT -5
Henry had already been informed of what had happened, but he was a bit surprised that Adelaide seemed to have no clue. It was one thing to drink from another vampire but it was entire other ordeal to drink so much that they passed out. Even without training a vampire's vigor usually kept them on their feet for a long while. He was starting to be extremely irritated with Nicholas, more so than he thought he would have over the treatment of Adelaide.
After Fran had gone and he heard the door open once more and then Nicholas began to speak Henry rose up from his kneeling position and turned to face Nicholas. His expression was strained. "Our Lady Adelaide is tired this evening. Perhaps it is best she rest for a while before she entertains more guests." He stated with a forced smile. "Or are you trying to point out her exhaustion to everyone else here at the party?" To punctuate his point Henry stepped between Adelaide and Nicholas to prevent him from being able to pull her up from her seat.
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Post by Blindside Tex on Feb 22, 2020 1:00:17 GMT -5
Nicholas drew his brows together as Henry spoke. He let out a low growl before he sneered. “If you think you can take her from me….” He snarled. “You’d better step up your came peasant.” He glanced around Henry slightly. “Adelaide. Don’t forget about your guests.” He spoke before he turned and returned from the party. It was clear that he wouldn’t make a scene here. Now was not the time for his anger to show.
A silence settled in over them once again as the two were left alone upon the balcony. Adelaide took in a deep breath, “Thank you, Henry.” She opened her eyes and looked up to him, a soft smile curved up her lips. “You’re not a peasant...don’t listen to him. He’s just trying to rile you up.” She closed her eyes once again. “He’s right though. I need to get back inside.” She stood herself up. She stumbled forward slightly and gripped onto Henry in a dizzy stupor. She let out a laugh as she held onto him. “Never thought you’d see a pure blood in such a vulnerable state did you?” She pressed her forehead against his chest. “I can’t believe...he did that...” She breathed her voice quivered slightly.
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Post by Nyte on Feb 22, 2020 1:38:27 GMT -5
Henry scoffed after Nicholas retreated back inside, only offering a word of advice to Adelaide before leaving. "I am a peasant, born and raised, but I'm not ashamed of that. He keeps acting like I should be ashamed but as far as I'm concerned he's just a spoiled brat." Henry turned towards Adelaide as he heard her get up from her seat and reached out to steady her as she stumbled. "Pure blood or not everyone has bad days and weak moments." He told her in a gentle tone as she leaned against his chest.
He could tell just how much she was counting on him to win the competition even though they had only known each other a couple of days. Anyone was better than Nicholas and honestly he couldn't blame her. He knew that he would get a very large sense of satisfaction if the brat was put into his place. "I can believe it. Anything he thinks might get him ahead. I know the type well and in the end their means never seem to help them out in the long run." He sighed and hesitantly reached up to run his fingers through her hair. "Would you care to share another dance with me? I promise that I wont drag you all around the dance floor like your last partner." He held out his right hand but supported her with his left.
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