Cozy Fires in Our Halls (open)

[Jason]

LAD TheWG drifter Reeku OnyxOryx Reylan's Imp

SPOILER: Click to show

Since everything else is progressing, wanted to give others an opportunity to do the thing with the Kimiko descendants. At the palace, which is where Neo would have move everyone. Due to the enchantment placed on this place by the creators, the elements do not effect the entire territory quite the same. There is a five mile radius where it is snowing lightly, coating the ground in a soft, white blanket, and over the next five miles out, the dampening effect fades slowly until the weather is as horrible as it is in the rest of Novis. The interior of the palace is quite similar to that of beauty and the beast. There are meek, mortal servants that are scattered about, some with scarves, showing they are there for the purpose of blood. While no one is mistreated, there can be noticeable disdain between some of the immortals and those with beating hearts. It is all quite safe, though, and hunting withing the palace's influence seems to yield unusually good prey and is fairly easy. The comforts found in the palace are similar to those found in the medieval time period.

With the constant cloud cover, Veton found himself needing less caution during the day time. While direct sunlight could be fatal, what filtered through the thick, gray clouds only left a stinging sensation and burns if he stayed out long enough. It was the evening, if the sky had been clear, one could have seen the sun setting, but instead, clouds shifted slightly in hues and the light lessened. The vampire was in a room off the great Hall, laying by the fire on some bear furs. Anthony was nested into his father's side as Veton turned the pages of a book. He encouraged his children to spend as much time with him as possible, but yet allowed them a bit of roaming freedom as they were slowly beginning to form sentences.

The refined male had been happy to receive Neo and the rest of the family into his home when he saw his children. While he was somewhat detached with those that were not of his blood, he was still a decent host and enforced few rules other than what courtesy required.

Maverick was excited to have guests other than the vampires he was used to and frequently tried to interact with everyone. He was far more social than his father, which quickly would have become obvious. He was curled in the library, studying as well.

Neo found himself impressed with how Veton had fixed the structure. He had not asked how, only aware that he had done so. He could appreciate the amenities fully, as advanced dwellings such as this were essentially nonexistent in Novis. He roamed the halls frequently, keeping a constant line on with his brother to check on the progress. Everyone would be aware of their family currently being safe, though traveling. He would lay around in room or just in the halls, though he went to the library frequently and poured over books. Occasionally, Neon would come over and he would tutor his son on reading, as well as anyone else who desired it. He was open to every member of his family. He laid off to the side of the great Hall that was the entrance to the palace and would look out the window at the snow as he spoke in his head to his brother.

Neon yawned as he exited the room he had been given. He was still daunted by the place he was staying in. It was unlike anything he had ever encountered. He frequently sought out his brothers, or anyone else for cuddles. He would watch the servants go about their duties, confused a bit by their behavior, but had eventually come to understand that the palace was sort of its own pride. But with different organization and different rules. While some things seemed more strict, others were more lax. He stretched his wing and went down the stairs, headed toward the library, picking up a snack in the kitchen, which was yet another new concept to him. Those in the kitchen seemed to enjoy their work. Really, only those with scarves seemed quiet, and they seemed tired, even though they seemed free to do what they pleased. He was vaguely aware that Veton was unusual.... But had yet to truly figure it out.

[drifter]

Kalea Crimson - Caliver | Keagelli Molloy | Zane Fearless

This place, its people... it was all strange for Kal. The way things worked around there was so vastly different than anything she had ever known. Especially in contrast to her birth Pride, Meurtrier.
For the most part, Kalea stayed clear of everyone except her family. The first night however, she stayed close to Anthony, over joyed to be reunited with her baby brother. When it came to Veton, she wasn't quite sure how to feel. The last time she had seen him things had not ended on a very good note. But the Palace was large, so it was easy to avoid the male and any awkwardness his presence might bring.
Veton's son however, Maverick, was a different story. He was young and energetic. Close to her and her litter-mate's ages. As far as she knew any way. It was a breath of fresh air to make a friend. Especially one who wasn't a relative. Whenever Kalea wanted to know something about the Palace, it was always Maverick she sought.
But at this moment she laid with her great-grandfather, curled against his side. As Neo silently conversed with Jasper, Kal had decided a nap was in order.

Once Neo had finally arrived with the rest of Veton's children, Keagelli was on cloud nine. Outwardly she respected the children and their need for space. She understood it was probably a traumatic moment for them when they were torn from their mother. But inwardly she wanted to just love them to death. It was also such a heartwarming moment to witness little Anthony finally being with his brothers and sisters again. The older siblings however, Kimiko's first children, it was hard for Kea to find a connection with them. They were here only because of Neo. He was their true link. Though it was a bit awkward for her to interact with them, she still continued to go out of her way to make them feel comfortable and welcome.

Keagelli now wandered the grounds. She prowled through the edges of the forest, seeking anything to possibly hunt down. Though she loved Veton and enjoyed all he had to teach her, he was going to make her a fat lazy cat. Veton had educated Kea, but she was what she was. A predator. A huntress. The feral world ran through her veins.
For a moment she paused, head lifting, ears flicking. Though they were silent, she knew she was being watched. Stone still, her eyes scanned around the foliage, seeking the presence she felt. Living with the undead had made her hyper aware of her surroundings. Though Veton told her she would always be safe here, one could never be too careful.
A slow movement caught her attention. She calmly turned her head to come face to face with a stranger. He was a male that wandered the outskirts of the territory. Everyone knew he was around but he had yet to make any move. So far he had shown no signs of aggression… Or docility.
Kea remained unmoving as the black male started to move off to the left, his gaze ever locked with hers. Though naturally she was fearful, she knew better than to outwardly show it. Instinct wanted her to bolt. This was a predator. But her time with Veton had taught her more about his kind than one should ever know in a lifetime. She would not run. It would only provoke him.
From behind she heard beings of the Palace moving about. They were going about their business only mere yards away from her. This stranger would be a fool to try and attack her. He wouldn’t get out of the territory alive… Or well… In one piece.

She stood out against the green of the woods. How she managed to hunt at all was a wonder. Zane watched her go about her searching, eyes following with a lax expression. He hadn’t been around long but he knew enough to know that this particular female was important. At least to the one in charge. It would be so unwise to make any moves against her. But it was strange to think that way. He never had to restrain himself around bleeders. They were cattle. They were food. Nothing more.
The vampire moved on purpose, trying to get her attention. For whatever reason, he wanted her to know he was there. Her reaction was mildly satisfying. He could easily sense her fear but she was a good sport about it.
Zane’s head fell to the side as he studied the female a bit more. It was a curious thing. For a vampire as old as the one who ruled here to be so involved with a mortal. He would live centuries more while she would eventually turn to dust. A curious thing indeed. Something that perhaps Zane would never fully understand. But one thing was for certain. This female held sway over this place. She was his easy way in. If he played his cards right.
With a steady pace that he hoped was harmless enough for her liking, Zane moved closer. When she took one step back, he stopped; seating himself comfortably. ”Hello.” He greeted, breaking the silence. It took her a moment to respond. He figured she was deciding whether or not she should. ”Hello” Her voice was strong but quiet, even dipping her head slightly. What manners this bleeder had.

While he took a seat, Kea remained standing. He seemed calm enough but again, one could never be too careful. She wondered if he knew Veton… Was one of his “sons”? But if he was then why was he out here? Was he shunned? Did Veton have shunned “children”?
”I have been waiting patiently for a chance to speak with you.” His words were enough to set her on edge. He wanted to talk to her? Why? What was she to him? But she held her silence and he continued. ”The outside world is in disarray. It’s hard not to notice that this territory remains calm throughout. I’m here because I seek refuge. But I also notice that though this place crawls with the undead, none are like myself.”
So he was coming to her for entry into the Palace? It threw her off. That wasn’t her duty. She didn’t have that power. With brows somewhat drawn together, Kea mulled it over for a moment. But she came to the best possible conclusion. ”I can take you to Veton. He’s the one in charge.”

Zane offered a sly smile. Perhaps he was wrong. Maybe she wasn’t that important around here. ”That would be most kind of you.” He purred, standing to move closer once again. She stepped aside to let him pass first. A sign she did not want him behind her. Smart girl…

[Jason]

Page by page, the undead male who claimed lordship of the castle devoured books. He had found a trove of hidden knowledge within the magnificent structure he had laid claim to. Tomes dating from eras before he was born were found hidden on small shelves. While Veton had added his own collection to the library, what he had found there was enough to keep him occupied for years. Over a week had been spent cataloguing and organizing things to his standards once the palace had been fixed with the majority of his thralls assisting. He pulled his tail back over his child who had curled into his stomach. Glasses were adjusted idly as he learned about the specific dynamics of steam power and its principles that were applicable in a practical way. The most impressive pieces of technology in the palace would not surpass the Greeks by far if at all. It did have the benefit of magic, however. No one had complained since the storms had rolled in, many of his servants now more than happy to spend time working within the castle, none asking for breaks outside. The looks of excitement that used to grace those assigned to hunt for that week were now looks of disappointment and irritation.

Veton yawned out of habit as a clock chimed in the hall. Dark eyes passed around as he sought out his lover. Her pale form was not in the room and his lower jaw jutted forth slightly. Had he really been so absorbed in his combustion engines that he had lost track of Keagelli? The answer was obviously yes and he inwardly groaned at what he felt to be negligence on his part. He moved fur pillows in and resituated them so the Anthony hard stirred from his slumber, and any of his other children for that matter. “Jackson,” he whispered, only to observe the dark brown male slip out from a blanket upon the couch. The corner of his mouth twitched as he watched his friend and second blink away sleep from amber eyes. “I'm going off, keep watch of my children?” The demonic mix nodded before stretching and slinking toward blankets and laying near the fire to watch over his master's progeny. The sight gave Veton the security he needed to leave the room and sniff about the great hall for his mate's scent.

It did not take long. He passes by Neo and Kalea, only giving quick nod to them before passing toward the door. The vampire slipped outside quickly, not wanting to let the cold air seep into the warm palace. His own body was quite cozy now, given how long he had spent beside the fire, but it would only be a short time before he was colder than the biting winter winds. Veton snorted quietly as snow started appear in his ebony hair and he gave his head a quick shake before determining the direction Keagelli was probably in, standing in unnatural silence on the step, his mane the only thing moving at this point.

[LAD]

Ashton & Soren


Ashton had found it hard to settle down once they'd gotten to the castle. It was new. Different. The structure was odd. The organization foreign. But he understood it. After observing for a while, he had certainly picked up on it. But he could never stay still - unless it was to spend some hour or two with Kalea or Miri. Even then, he was hard pressed. Ashton had begun to feel himself trapped. He missed the trees. Missed the grass underneath his paws. It had been freezing outside, this he knew and he knew he couldn't venture out on his own without possibly getting lost - it was why he barely roamed the castle unless he'd asked to do so. Just to walk. To stretch his legs. This however... Was an opportune moment.

As he sat a few paces away from his great grandfather, watching over his sister with soft eyes, Veton had made his presence known, and Ashton watched as he moved towards the doors. Curiosity got the best of him however when Veton made his direction clear - Ashton knew what was beyond those doors - outside. And so when Veton slipped outside, Ashton made quick work to follow him, figuring in the end, he was safer with the owner of this land than he would be on his own. His tongue flicked out to warm his nose instinctively when the biting cold hit him - it would be a constant thing he knew immediately but more than that, as he slowly walked after the male, he knew not what to say - barely even asking if he could accompany him and simply doing so. He hoped that Veton wouldn't mind of course, but words had never been his forte.

---

Soren, on the other paw, had no issue with settling in, and even now remained curled against his father's side, head draped on his large arm. His ears flicked when he heard his brother however and his head perked up instantly. Without thought to his father contacting his brother, he scrambled over his father's arms - deciding that this was a much more wanted route than walking around - and quickly made his way over. "What'd ya get?" He asked. Food wasn't much of an option for him - the weirdness of the place had zapped his appetite for now. But he didn't ignore his consumption, and he certainly didn't turn his head away. He was curious, however, even if he'd no intention of asking for a bite.

[Nala_91]

Crimson orbs glanced all around the strange castle, as the black heavily scared feline followed her master. A velvet choker adorned her neck, hiding one of her deepest scars. "Veton.. what is this place? It has far more books then our other home, and a lot of other creatures too. Who are they and why are we here?", she asked with a fearful ton in her voice. Domain's fur bristled as she stayed close to Veton. This area was far bigger then any other place she'd been too, it gave her the creeps. "I..uhm understand and know many of my kind, but vampires.. not so much. Are you sure this place is safe?".

[drifter]

Keagelli Molloy | Zane Fearless | Kalea Crimson - Caliver

Tail swishing, wings flexing, whiskers twitching. Still sleeping. Sleepy sleepy Kal.

The two felines moved side by side with a good tail length between them. Keagelli kept her eyes set ahead, but set her ear toward the stranger. The dark male made her seem like a midget in comparison. He towered over her a great deal, yet that wasn't what she found so unnerving.
There was an unnatural glint in his eyes. Whenever any amount of light hit his face there was a sudden sheen. Curiosity had her looking at him out the corner of her eye.. Only to realize he was watching her out of his.
Just get to the door..

It was highly amusing to watch this female squirm. Being fawned over before a feeding got so dull after awhile. The squirmy uncomfortable ones however..

"Veton."

Her soft greeting to the male not far away brought Zane out of his inappropriate thoughts. He paused whilst she continued on. The hint of a smirk played on his lips as he watched her go to, he could only assume to be, Veton's side. He mentally gave her props for trying. It was clear as day how tense she was. It was clear how badly she wanted to run.
His diamondy-red gaze swept over the other two felines present. A younger male and rather beaten female. It appeared this Veton fellow wasn't at all shy about keeping his blood-bags on hand.
"My apologies on intruding." Zane piped. His voice was loud, though deep, and his stance held high and sure. An attention seeker through and through..
His eyes planted firmly onto the biggest feline before him. The male's lack of heart beat was a clear indicator that this was indeed who Zane sought. "Veton, I presume? You do not know me nor I you. So allow me to introduce myself. I am Zane Fearless. Son of Fell and Blade. A vampire like yourself... To an extent, I suppose. I come seeking refuge. The world, as I'm sure you're aware, is in shambles. I came upon your lands just a few days ago. Sorry for not coming forward sooner but I needed the well deserved rest, you see.. I can't help but notice that you and yours are unaffected by the on goings outside this territory.."

Keagelli had made her way forward. She was indeed tense but with each step closer to Veton was one step closer to breathing a sigh of relief. As she passed the vampire, she brushed firmly against him, defusing her own anxiety and fear.
She finally came to stand beside Domain, eyes briefly landing on Ashton. She would have greeted them both, not wanting to be rude, but her mind was still drawing a fearful blank.

[Jason]

Wind whipped his ebony mane from its usual well kept and groomed manner into something of a wild flame atop his skull. The rich crimson flecks spread throughout his irises until his eyes were alike rubies. He detected something was amiss, but had yet to put a claw on it. Eyes darted from side to side as he was flanked. His head tilted briefly to carefully regard the nervous female. "It is a place to congregate my kin." His patience was a little shorter given his unease and that Keagelli was not yet within his sight. "It suits my tastes more than the academy did, as well giving me room to build my...." He trailed off as two figures came into his field of view. "Something like family," he stated coldly.

He did not bristle when he saw the dark male with dazzling eyes. He did not show aggression, but his expression was far from welcoming or warm. His tail slid over Keagelli as she moved to his side, her discomfort evident to the male so enamoured with her. He was protective more so than possessive, though he was practiced enough in the sin of envy enough to embody it. Pride was his next vice and to an extent, this male was offending it, despite the niceties.

Yet... The vampire retained his regal demeanor and did not act as indignant as he felt. He glanced toward Domain. "I believe he is your uncle," he commented cooly. His focus returned to the male before him. He wanted to refuse the other outright on the basis of species alone, but that would certainly expose his prejudice and elitism. "So you wish to join my coven or you simply seek refuge, Mr. Fearless?" To any who knew how much he looked down upon other varieties of vampire, his motives would have been incredibly questionable.

Neon lift his eyes as he saw Soren and started making noises around his plate. "I'ff veneffen fom fa fiffen," he tried to say around the plate, still having difficulty balancing the minimally roasted and herbed cut of meat. He quickly realized how impossible it was going to be and sat it down. "It's venison from the kitchen. If smelled very good, actually. I saw one of the scarved cats eating it. Called it like... An herby roost or something. I have nooooooo idea what that means, though."

[drifter]

If no one else is wanting to post, would it be okay if I just went ahead? The muse is strong in this one o.o

[Nala_91]

Sure thing, I dunno on what to reply with lol

[LAD]

*agrees*