Reiji Santiago's Story

”Now?... Are you trying to tell me to stop waking you up in the middle of the day?”

"Well the lost hours of rest do add up.. but we really must be discrete.. we can't let anyone find out that you aren't on the reading level you're age would suggest. It would make our family look inadequate and it might even cause some commotion with the Vampire Counsel.." He didn't want to directly state the counsel would be concerned about her intelligence, but it was the truth. The counsel was very picky about whom they let become vampires. Intelligence was required or the counsel would eliminate the vampire.. They feared uneducated vampires would be the doom of their race and Reiji had little to say that objected to the claim.. but Mirabelle wasn't ignorant.. she was learning rather fast.. He just doubted the counsel would care. She was several hundred years old and was unable to read or write at an adult human's level. They would judge her before he even got a chance to argue in her defense. Secrecy was of the utmost importance. He couldn't lose her twice.

“Speaking of our guests… Brother, I’m so hungry. Please tell me we can tell them quickly so I can eat.."

He watched his sister's attention shift to the shelves, and he allowed her to pick at whichever books she liked, Tanzy would have the pleasure of rearranging them back to perfect order.. so what did he care? He allowed her to speak freely, his hand flicking around quickly as he placed his signature on document after document. It was becoming quite monotonous, almost mind-numbingly so.

"Anyway we can do it all at once and the easiest way possible?”

"I understand, but it is Castiel's custom that each of us reveal it to our own servant whenever we so wish... Or I announce it at a meeting in the drawing room after everyone agrees.. You may tell your maid tonight if you wish to feed, just be gentle and remind her to keep our secret to herself. I'm sure Bishop and Demetri have their own timeline planned.. They'll inform their servants at their own discretion."

His maroon eyes gazed over his sister, observing her behavior. She was obviously looking for a moment of weakness in him, and despite him having a soft spot for his sister, he kept himself firm. He couldn't show any weakness... He never knew who could be watching. The counsel had spies everywhere and not to mention he still hadn't figured out Castiel's miraculous recovery. Despite an obvious werewolf bite.. Castiel still lives. He researched for many months, book after book and found nothing on a cure. He gave up a few months ago, but the lingering question still bugged him. The fact he couldn't find the answer.. it was mentally clawing away at his sanity. His mentality was taking a major blow, not to mention his ginormous ego as well. Reiji was taking it harder than anyone else that it couldn't be explained. Mirabelle and Demetri were no doubt just grateful to have Castiel back, ready to dismiss all intentions of figuring out the reason behind his return. Reiji... couldn't. He had a sinking feeling that there was a purpose behind it. A very sinister reason. He couldn't shake the feeling that something horrible was going to happen in the upcoming months. He allowed his sister to tug him along, only hesitating to readjust his glasses to his face. He shut the door to his office behind them, hoping the new help would take it as a hint to keep out.

”Now is as good as time as any, right?”

"Mirabelle.. I know I gave you permission to go ahead and feed, but please try not to frighten the girl. She might attempt to flee and that could prove problematic for us all if she succeeds.." He replied with a sigh, putting a firm grip on her hand, stopping their progression down the hall for a moment, "I will have no choice but to torture the knowledge into her subconscious if she attempts to leave.. It's not a clean process.. forcing someone to break and lock away their memories.. To force them to make themselves forget.. It's bloody and the screams never leave your mind. You hear them every night before you fall asleep.. One of the loudest roll calls you can imagine.. Keep that in mind as you proceed.. That is all I ask." He then allowed her to continue leading him to the stairs and eventually into the main hall.

"Tonight's meal has already been set up in the dining room Lady Santiago, Lord Bishop..."

His crimson eyes lingered on the maid as she stopped the two of them, saving them from an unnecessary trip to the kitchens. Though she forgot to address him, entirely this time. He grit his teeth about to reprimand her for her ignorance, until she finally uttered his title. All the while she glared figurative daggers into to him, and he smirked at her.

"..Master Santiago.."

He once again went to speak, but was cut off by none other than Bishop. He glared to his brother, but forced a smile onto his features for Mirabelle's sake, "Ready to eat, baby brother?" He asked, subtly poking at his hot tempered brother, but attempting to keep his jabs at Bishop subtle enough to not alarm their little sister. Mirabelle wanted unity and Reiji would at least fake it for her sake... for now.

"Mind the tone. You'll get yourself into trouble, don't want to lose our heads...do we?"

I'd love for her to lose her head... quite literally.. Reiji licked his lips imagining the taste of Anise's blood on his lips as he ripped her head clean from her shoulders. He nearly shivered as his imagination almost got the best of him. He straightened out his coat, clearing his throat before looking to Mirabelle, quirking an eyebrow as he silently inquired if she was ready to proceed to the dining hall. Now that was a fantasy.. He thought, eyeing Anise through the corner of his eye as Bishop removed her. Such a pity..

He could hear a familiar heartbeat and his eyes instantly landed on Tanzy and two other women. Camilla and Jane.. they finally arrived. I thought Camilla was a bit older... though now that she's all cleaned up I doubt she's more than a child.. It doesn't matter.. as if none of us have fed from a child before..

"Tanzy, Camilla, Jane... it's time for dinner.. Please show them to their seats Tanzy." and he led Mirabelle to her seat, taking his own spot at the extravagant chair at the front of the table.

Hearing the second girl's name, Tanzy smiled at the two new maids as she committed their faces and names to memory. Looking at them though, she was surprised to see that Camilla was barely older than a child. A sick feeling began to mold in her stomach at the thought of someone so young signing their life away to a house of vampires. The girl would never see her family again, and it was all Tanzy could do to not fret over her and go implore Reiji to reconsider. She forced a smile, motioning to a seat where Camilla's name had been written on a small folded card. Each seat was labeled by a card written in fine script, the place settings formal and elegant.

"It's very nice to meet you. Camilla, you'll sit here for dinner. Jane, you are next to Camilla." Tanzy pulled out the seats, indicating the girls to their place cards and silently motioning that they sit. Going around the table, she pulled out chairs and indicated where everyone was going to sit, nodding at Reiji's instructions as he came in. "Yes sire." she said, pulling out his seat before attending to anyone else.

Once everyone, including Anise, was seated, Tanzy moved to stand beside Reiji's chair, heart rate increasing as she felt on edge around the man. Lifting the plate cover protecting his appetizer, Tanzy officially signaled the others could as well, now that the master's food was revealed. "Tonight, the appetizer is a creamy tomato bisque. For dinner, Anise and I have prepared deviled quail eggs, roast chicken, potato salad, fresh rolls, and corn on the cob. For dessert, Anise has created for you two rich cheesecakes, one apple, the other cherry. We have a chilled rosé wine for dinner, and for dessert we have a light chamomile tea." Tanzy announced, about to go to her seat when she remembered her need to speak with the head of the house. Lowering her voice to a whisper, she busied herself with placing his napkin on his lap as an excuse to linger just enough.

"Master Santiago, I know it is not my place, but might I speak with you after dinner for but a moment?" she whispered, bowing her head and retreating to her seat.

About to lift her own cover, she caught a glimpse of Castiel, the fair haired vampire earning a sympathetic look. But she then froze, face gong pale as she realized her mistake. Since his trauma, Tanzy had been giving Castiel some blood on a daily basis, often simply cutting into her palm and pouring it into a glass or into food so he needn't sit up or bite her. She fed him so he could regain his strength and not become ill again. She had added some blood to his soup as well tonight, but she realized with horror that for the first time, he wasn't taking his meal in his room, but out with the other vampires.

Tanzy swallowed hard, awaiting the repercussions with dread.

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"It's not common for men to develop skills in a trade like sewing, but it's not like I'm the type that runs into battle with gun in tow...No that lifestyle never was for me.. My mother did send Bishop and myself to war however..We barely survived it." Demetri said in an almost sad tone. Jason didn't let the sound change the attitude on his face as that probably wouldn't please the red haired man, sympathy and all that. It was war after all, a horrible nasty thing. Which war had Demetri and Bishop participated in anyway? A question for another day.

There was a bell and Jason heard Demetri speak once again, "Dinner is ready. It's time to meet the family." Demetri downed scotch making Jason's stomach twist slightly. He had done that at one point, though much worse and more than what the red haired man had just consumed. Jason followed Demetri and was rather surprised to see a red haired replica of Demetri, even if he had been warned. This must be Bishop. Jason took in the others in the room and found that he really only recognized Mirabelle, Jane, and Camilla. There were two other girls, the other maids Tanzy and Anise. He didn't quite catch a glimpse of one of their faces as she was moved away by Bishop, or Demetri, though Demetri was beside him, so he must be Bishop.

"Sister... Reiji... shall we dine?" Demetri motioned for Jason to follow and distracted, Jason did. Something about the girl, the one with the black hair, he hadn't even seen her face. Jason nodded curtly to those that gave him attention, offering a small smile for he didn't know what else to do in reality. "You will be sitting at the right end of the table with the rest of the help while my siblings and myself will be at the right end. The red haired man leading the ebony haired maid is my twin brother, Bishop, in case you're curious.."

Jason laughed slightly at that. "Heh, I'll be lucky to tell you two apart within a month," Jason says shaking his head in wonder as he looked between the twin brothers yet again. He then took his seat, one of the last ones to do so in fact. He looked before him at the setting of the dinner. It really did look magnificent, he wouldn't be hungry after this for sure. He would be more than full.

He looked up to see the girl with the pink hair lifting the cover from the mans, whom Jason assumed to be the master since he was at the head of the table, plate. "Tonight, the appetizer is a creamy tomato bisque. For dinner, Anise and I have prepared deviled quail eggs, roast chicken, potato salad, fresh rolls, and corn on the cob. For dessert, Anise has created for you two rich cheesecakes, one apple, the other cherry. We have a chilled rosé wine for dinner, and for dessert we have a light chamomile tea." This girl seemed to know what she was saying and had certainly cooked before.

Jason looked down the table to see others removing the covers from their food and following suit, taking the cue. Never had he dined in a place so elegantly done up. He felt in place there even though he wasn't used to such situations, the suit that Demetri had made certainly brought a more elegant feel to Jason. He knew for certain that he was carrying himself just a little taller now that he was in something that he felt was official.

Jason took a moment to look at those around him. There were the twins who he thought he could tell apart. A blonde man who looked like he was the oldest, the pink haired maid, the man at the head of the table with the glasses, Jane, Camilla, and the other maid. When his eyes finally reached her, Jason paused, not moving at all as he stared at her. He knew it could be thought to be rude, but he couldn't help it. He was really outright gaping at the sight of her. She looked just like Alice. Must be Alice. How could she be Alice? What was going on?

Jason didn't stop staring for a few more moments before he heard the clink of the dinnerware. He looked around, almost as if remembering where he was, then looked down at his food, then back up at the girl. She looked just like Alice. He had searched for the girl for years, had even ruined his life after loosing her, and finally worked to get it back only to find her here, alive and well. Did she recognize him? Did she even remember him at all? That would hurt if she didn't. He couldn't possibly handle it.

He wondered if he could speak up to talk to her, but wasn't sure that would be a good thing to do. He waited for others to start eating, copying their choices in the silverware well enough to pass it off. He started to bring food to his mouth when he just became wed all over again by this girl in front of him. Eventually, Jason composed himself enough to eat carefully as he watched the girl, hoping he wouldn't be thought weird or creepy. He was freaking out though, and it didn't help that she was only a few feet away from him.

Anise's eyes widened as she felt firm pressure on her shoulder, sort of waking her from her angry stare at Reiji. She peeked over her shoulder to see none other than Bishop standing behind her. She mentally cursed herself before smiling to Mirabelle and Reiji. The dark haired maid then closed her eyes and allowed herself to take a slow breath. Lately it was growing a bit harder to control her temper. Day by day it gradually added up like grains of sand inside an hourglass.

"Mind the tone. You'll get yourself into trouble, don't want to lose our heads...do we?"

She noticed that Reiji was about to give his inflated opinion, though thankfully Bishop's words silenced the dark haired demon. Reiji smiled, which sent a chill down Anise's spine. What is he putting on a face for? Then her eyes shifted toward Mirabelle. Of course.. He doesn't want to show his monstrous nature to his younger sister.. She's the only one in his corner right now..

"Ready to eat, baby brother?"

She looked to Bishop, but he merely responded by shoving her along. They came to a halt once inside the dining room and before she could scurry off towards her seat, Bishop leaned in and in a hushed tone taunted her about how she'd zoned out prior to her run in with Reiji.

"I noticed you were lingering earlier....enjoy the view?"

He let go after he had his fun, and Anise's eyes widened almost larger than the dinner plates as she spun around and shook her head, "I wasn't!" she protested, then she realized her reaction could have been taken entirely a different way, "I mean...you're not.. well.. but I don't see you... I only see you in a professional light, Lord Bishop.." Once she'd found the words she'd been looking for, Anise quickly bowed and took her seat between Jason and Castiel.

She sat there, cooling herself as she just stared down at the assortment in front of her. Bishop always twisted everything to put her in a compromising position, at least in the figurative realm. Everyone began to take their seats and Anise's head turned to those next to her. Castiel was to her left, and an unfamiliar face to her right. She assumed he was Jason, judging by his name card in front of him.

She noticed he was staring at her when her eyes raised to him, and she felt a bit of nervousness wash over her. She turned instantly, listening to Tanzy's announcement before Reiji ushered his hand. It was his signal that everyone could begin their meal. She looked over to Castiel, a weary smile on her face, "Are you certain that you're ready for such a large crowd...?" Her eyes lingered on him a bit, mostly out of concern, but also because it was the first time she'd seen him looking himself since his accident a year ago, "If you need any help with names, or otherwise, I can assist you. I hope you enjoy your meal, Lord Castiel." She gave another weak smile before returning to her food, taking a small bite and she checked everyone at the table out out after swallowing. She wasn't sure why the family chose to dine together, it wasn't common... aside from keeping the facade that they're human, having dinner together served no purpose. Do they really enjoy frightening humans this much? She was really starting to detest vampires..

After saying her piece, she bowed her head a bit and turned to Jason, who was finally beginning to eat, but still seemed to steal glances at her any chance he could. Eventually she drew up enough courage to introduce herself, "I'm Anise Delopar... It's a pleasure to meet you, ...Jason?" She asked, just in case the card was misleading. She took a sip of her wine, smiling a bit to Tanzy. Anise wasn't that familiar with alcohol still, she was glad her friend chose it. It tasted rather nice, so she took another small sip. Just enough to keep herself busy as she awaited Jason's response. She didn't wish to seem fidgety. Though honestly it was nerve wracking having him gawk at her for some unknown reason. Is something in my hair?

"Heh, I'll be lucky to tell you two apart within a month."

Demetri chuckled at this and shook his head, "You'll get the hang of it faster than you think." He then pointed to his face, finger at the right side, below his mouth "I'm the one with the freckle." He gave Jason a wink before parting ways. Demetri straightened out his suit before finding his spot next to Bishop. He couldn't help but smile at this. They always kept him close to Bishop due to 'behavioral' issues, but currently Reiji was parading around like a king stricken with madness. It was a bit biased in his opinion...

He made his way to his chair, smiling to his twin beside him, "I heard the commotion, are you going to be alright, brother?" He asked, green eyes flashing concern. He meant to keep out of family affairs, but Bishop was like his other half. Keeping out of things that involved Bishop would mean shutting down half of his brain in the process.

Demetri noticed out of the corner of his eye that Camilla and Jane hadn't taken their seats yet. He didn't mention it, but he hoped they would soon, else they receive a harsh scolding from Reiji and the family dinner would be ruined with bickering. He looked to his glass of wine, the smell taunting him in unimaginable ways as he waited for the cue to do so. He licked his lips as he stared at the glass. Demetri obviously had a drinking problem...but aside from getting blood drunk, like Tanzy and Anise had witnessed... substance never seemed to truly effect him, or Reiji for that matter, despite the amounts they consumed.

"Tonight, the appetizer is a creamy tomato bisque. For dinner, Anise and I have prepared deviled quail eggs, roast chicken, potato salad, fresh rolls, and corn on the cob. For dessert, Anise has created for you two rich cheesecakes, one apple, the other cherry. We have a chilled rosé wine for dinner, and for dessert we have a light chamomile tea."

Then Reiji's wave of a hand brought Demetri's drink into his hand with almost inhuman speed. He brought the glass to his lips far more slowly, not wishing to alarm their new guests. By then everyone was seated so he tilted his head over to Camilla, "Just in case...work your way in on the silverware. If you mess up a little no one will notice..." He whispered with a wink. Then took a sip of his wine once more. Well, perhaps it was more than a sip..

"Master Santiago, I know it is not my place, but might I speak with you after dinner for but a moment?"

Tanzy's voice rang in his head and he located her to be next to Reiji by the sound of it. What is she trying to keep so discrete..? He smiled, but decided now wasn't the time or place to reveal his sibling's acute hearing. His siblings probably had their own way of revealing their nature to their maids. He wasn't going to spoil their fun.

”Jane.”

He then took a moment to smile to his sister, whom looked as if something was bothering her. Nothing is going to happen under our watch.. He thought to himself, but he wasn't sure if that was more to reassure himself, or Mirabelle. He gave her a reassuring smile, before looking to Camilla again, "Is there anything on the table you'd like me to reach for you, little dove?" Her arms were so thin and small he doubted she could reach most of the nearby assortments.

"Are you certain that you're ready for such a large crowd...? If you need any help with names, or otherwise, I can assist you. I hope you enjoy your meal, Lord Castiel."

It seems all is going well, for now. I guess we all can have a peaceful dinner if we set our minds to it.. He closed his eyes for a minute, frowning a bit. The only thing that was missing was music... though he'd forgotten to rent a band for the night... That was his fault he supposed, but it didn't stop it's absence from spoiling his meal..

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Jane looked at those around her, taking her time to look each in the face just to see the family’s appearance. There was a variety of hair color though they all looked to be rather young. The only ones that were not questionable whatsoever were Demetri and Bishop, both with the same hair and same face.

Jane looked down at her plate, wondering how on earth she was going to figure this out. She wanted to just use one utensil for everything if she could, but didn’t know if that would pass with this family. They seemed laid back, well Demetri did, but she was still worried. She looked at the wine before her. She hadn’t really had a lot of wine in her life and was slightly curious. She looked at the others momentarily, seeing Jason was just downright staring at the girl called Anise. Taking a sip of wine, she heard Demetri whisper something Camilla about the utensils, but didn't quite catch it. Great, now she really was doomed. She couldn't very well lean forward and ask him to repeat what he said at the dinner table. That would be extremely rude and probably not something the head of the house would approve of.

Jane’s attention then turned to the most silent brother at the table. He had blonde hair and was sitting quietly, looking as if he was comfortable but not at the same time. She wondered why he was different than his brothers. She could already tell things about them. The head of the house, the one the other maids were calling Master Santiago, was definitely in charge and didn’t like anyone challenging him. Demetri was pretty comfortable with everyone, Mirabelle seemed to be considering something, and Bishop was, well he was the only one Jane hadn’t really picked anything up from. One thing was for sure though, all of them had their own looks in one way or another.

Mirabelle spoke her name and Jane smiled at her, giving her a nod of greeting. She took a sip of her wine, listening for a moment and hearing a somewhat familiar nickname. She rolled her eyes inwardly as she heard Demetri’s nickname for the maids. She smiled as she set the wine down and took up her spoon, guessing wrong on the utensil.

She wasn’t sure who to talk to since she didn’t really know the brothers and those that she did know seemed to be interacting with someone else. She didn’t want to butt in or interrupt though so she stayed quiet. She slowly brought her spoon to her mouth, amazed with the taste of the bisque. She wasn’t quite sure what was in it, but it was truly spectacular.

She looked down at her plate, not knowing what to say to anyone and certainly doubtful of whether or not she should even say anything at all. Her stomach held butterflies and she wasn’t having a good time so far, just because she felt left out and odd not knowing anyone. She didn’t tell anyone, but sat their quietly. She wasn’t entirely open at the beginning, only being open after she had at least known the people she was with for a little while.

Jane wondered what else these brothers had in store for the new help that night. She wondered whether or not all her time here would be like this, her being quiet. She hoped not, but wasn’t entirely sure.

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Jason felt broken when he heard her speak her name. He felt himself almost fall into despair and his food, almost losing everything that held him up in his disappointment. In his disbelief that she wasn’t who she looked like. He took a deep breath, his chest aching slightly. Heartache wasn’t a real problem was it? He didn’t think so, yet here it was.

”I'm Anise Delopar... It's a pleasure to meet you, ...Jason?" Jason hid his disappointment behind a mask of surprise. He looked at her with new interest that was nonexistent in reality. ”Anise Delopar? The pleasure’s mine. I’m sorry, I just… you look exactly like someone I once knew. Jason Olivander,” Jason says, reaching for his glass of water rather than the wine. As he eats, he doesn’t once reach for the wine, being extremely careful not to touch it.

”This dinner you and… Tanzy was it?” Jason checks, wanting to make sure he was getting close to getting some names, ”The dinner is really spectacular.” Jason wanted to talk to her, but at the same time was unsure. She looked like his Alice, sounded like her and everything, but wasn’t her.

He ate, copying the others choices in the utensils for the various food. He refused to be left behind in trying to catch up to his mannerisms at the dinner table. ”Anise, how long have you worked here for the Santiagos?” Jason asked, genuinely curious about this girl.

"Tonight, the appetizer is a creamy tomato bisque. For dinner, Anise and I have prepared deviled quail eggs, roast chicken, potato salad, fresh rolls, and corn on the cob. For dessert, Anise has created for you two rich cheesecakes, one apple, the other cherry. We have a chilled rosé wine for dinner, and for dessert we have a light chamomile tea."

Reiji took his seat first, followed by his siblings and the hired help, in no particular order. He glanced around the table in a bored fashion, cupping his wineglass and twirling it in his palm idly as she gave the list. It wasn't like he didn't hear her loud and clear. The occasional inconvenience of being supernatural was definitely the exceptional hearing abilities. Some things he'd heard in his lifetime just weren't worth repeating. He wished he could be more selective with what his ears registered. An off switch would definitely sweeten the deal of immortality immeasurably. Not to mention the smell of her blood invading his nostrils. She had been a very bad girl today. Feeding her blood to her former master when he strictly stated she was now his? That wouldn't do... He'd surely have to punish her for her disobedience..but he'd give her a chance to defend herself after dinner. Perhaps she could find some excuse to deter him from his pursuit of retribution.... however it was quite unlikely.

"Master Santiago, I know it is not my place, but might I speak with you after dinner for but a moment?"

He knew her attempt of secrecy was in vain, but gave no visual evidence of it. What was it to him if her efforts were in vain? It wasn't like he was the one with something to hide. His crimson eyes followed her to her seat, a small smirk crossing his lips for a fleeting moment before his flat expression returned. He took a sip of his wine finally before standing, clicking a spoon against his glass gently, "I would like to make an announcement before we all become entangled in what I am certain will be quite meaningful conversation, I want to welcome Jason Olivander, Camilla Eden, and Jane Christopher to our home. I want everyone to give them the proper Castillo de la Muerte welcome... I am Reiji Santiago, acting head of house and your new employer. I have three rules, One... Do not steal from me or my family.... Two... Obey the lord or lady you've been assigned to... and Three... Never enter my living quarters under any circumstances... if I've made myself clear, I hope each of you find your stay....." He trailed off, searching for a suitable term, but his voice was eerie and a far too sadistic for the friendly dinner's atmosphere. It left a chilling cloud over the room that was definitely more than a little hard to shake. "tolerable.. With that, I urge everyone to enjoy their meal.... converse...and by all means, have fun.." He gave the crowd a playful wink before raising his glass and taking a sip. He sat down, eyeing Jason knowingly. He knew all about his situation with alcohol. He knew everything about the poor boy's life. Out of the three, Reiji personally sought out Jason. He did so intentionally, due to his relationship with Anise's twin sister. He never met Alice, but he heard quite a bit in the past year. Apparently she was more insufferable than Anise and that was quite a feat. He couldn't stand the naive and shy act that the demon child fooled his siblings with so he intended to cause her as much discomfort as possible. Perhaps Bishop and Castiel would see her in a different light if another man came into the picture. There was no way this once drunkard wouldn't fall for her annoyingly bright smile and sickeningly clumsy charm. Anise made him want to gag. Sure she was no longer all lillies and daisies.. but she still held so much determination and will despite her obvious lack of ability. Had she not signed a lifetime contract he'd of fired her immediately. She could get the job done when cleaning was concerned and was an amazing cook, but she was clumsy and broke many priceless vases and irreplaceable decor.. compared to Tanzy however, she was a novice at her trade. She and Tanzy were derailing his family from their foundation. The only solace he found from this situation was that Tanzy was a more manageable human. She had her uses, and she was also quite entertaining to say the least. She didn't irk every fiber of his being like Miss Delopar. If Bishop and Castiel hadn't interfered he'd of ended her miserable life in the hall. It wasn't like she would mind. The past year she had been moping and crying during the daylight hours. He wasn't sure if his siblings knew, seeing as it was their natural time of rest...but due to his new obligations he discovered she was a lot more irritating than he previously knew. Her sobs weren't the worst of it, either she was having nightmares or she was going mad because several occasion she addressed her deceased sibling as if she were in the room with her alive and well.

Killing her would have been a service to everyone in his opinion. He gave out a huff and began eating his bisque, once again admiring Tanzy's meal, but inwardly pouting that it didn't contain the delectable morsel's blood in it. Favoritism? Another naughty mark, my little maid.. I do look forward to punishing you, love.

"Keep staring boy, and I'll remove your eyes from your skull."

"Dear brother, that's no way to present yourself to your new butler..." He said in a scolding manner before standing, making his way over to Bishop and placing a firm hand on his shoulder, "I hand picked him, just for you. Apologize to the boy, now. I'm sure he's prepared a reasonable explanation for why he's gawking at your former maid." Reiji denied himself the chance to smirk, Bishop for once was making the mockery of himself and Reiji was being a dutiful older brother, reprimanding his younger sibling's rudeness and squashing a possible fight that could reveal the true nature of the family to the new help far too prematurely. Such a good brother I am..

He took his seat once he made his brother's threat known to the entire table. His intention was not as pure as some would think. Reiji knew exactly what he was doing and none of it was for the human's sake. He was attempting to validate his position as soon as possible. If Castiel's memories returned, it could be taken away from him within the blink of an eye. He needed someone in his corner when that happened.

Vampires were beautiful creatures; flawless in appearance, wise in knowledge. They had the speed and strength any human would die for – the heightened senses of an animal. They were a force to be reckoned with, but Mirabelle saw it… Saw that the one thing that would bring them down was themselves. They weren’t a family at its strongest when they were together, but amidst a civil war that seemed to be a secret. Sure, they could come together in disaster, it was proven the night the wolves attacked, but Mirabelle couldn’t fight the feeling that they only fought together for the fear of losing whatever it was to someone else, other than each other. Her eyes first settled on Reiji. She studied his face while her hand idly held the spoon amongst her food, gently toying with what she couldn’t bring to her lips. She found the boyish features that she used to know. The way he held himself, the way he spoke and asserted his dominance as he took Bishop made her the slightest bit uncomfortable. Mirabelle didn’t react, didn’t move. She merely looked down to her food until the spout was over.

She thought about his rules, and then thought about the small corner she had taken over in his room. There was a spot clear just big enough to fit the girl if she sat in the Indian style position. It wasn’t all that lady like of her, but she found it more comfortable than perched on the edge of a chair. Mirabelle meant to take up the least amount of room possible, but that’s where she studied when she needed his guidance. She would leave traces of her writings behind, mostly of either practiced penmanship or notes left on paper tucked away in books. She wasn’t just learning how to read, but learning what was inside the books. It wasn’t just childish stories anymore, but deep concepts of philosophy and the questionable lies in a book meant only to be myths. Many nights before he’d wake to her presence, she’d whisper prayers of one day finding him to wake as the man he used to be, not the man that would kill her if she didn’t state her presence quickly.

Her thoughts turned to Castiel, and so did her gaze. It was strange to see him.. It was strange to see all of them amongst each other, but Cas most of all. She only knew very little of him as a vampire. She only saw what he had become the night she came home – the man that would have killed her had she not proven to him that it was her. The girls of the home had taken an extreme liking to him, constantly checking to see if he was okay, but the man that sat beside her was a complete stranger, and she was finally beginning to accept that.

And then there were the twins. Bishop and Mira never had a close bond, but they did care for one another. She loved him just as much as she loved any of her brothers, but nothing compared what he and Demetri had. She supposed she was always jealous of their relationship, but never once tried to harm or take away from it. Mirabelle had felt more alone than she had been while she was away.

Her gaze fell upon Jane. That girl was going to be her salvation. Mirabelle didn’t know it yet, but she was going to come to find the female incredibly important to her. She watched Jane in the way she moved, in the hesitance in her actions. All three of them, so innocent, so naïve. They didn’t have a clue on what they were getting themselves into, and that almost succeeded in making the female vampire feel.. guilty. Then the ache in her fangs returned and she remembered exactly why they were there. Reaching out to grasp her glass and ease the tension, Mirabelle raised it in the air.

”A toast. To new beginnings, new memories, and new relationships.” She paused and looked amongst the men at the end of the table. ”To family.” The last part was more to herself than it was to the others, but she gave them all a forced smile and took a sip of her drink, only wishing the meal would end faster.

Tanzy felt a shudder run down her spine as Reiji smirked at her retreating form, uneasy even though the expression lasted only a moment. She wasn't sure which was worse, seeing his anger, or not knowing if his wrath awaited her. She knew it was foolish to think he didn't smell her blood in front of Castiel, and his expression gave her no heads up about his mindset. She supposed she'd find out eventually. Glancing over at the blonde male as he sat quietly in front of his food, Tanzy opened her mouth to ask if he needed anything, only to remember the new arrangement just in time. She closed her lips, biting on the inside of them slightly in distress.

About to eat, Tanzy noticed one of the new maids looking more than a tad lost. The poor girl was obviously unsure about how to go about navigating the table settings, and looked sufficiently- -and understadably, anxious. Leaning closer to Jane, Tanzy inwardly thanked whatever had inspired her to seat the older of the new maids to her right.
"Don't worry, just start from the outermost utensils and work your way in. And anything above the plate is for dessert." Tanzy whispered quickly, finally turning her attention to her own food.

She once more was interrupted from taking her first bite, a clink of silverware on glass arousing her attention as it was intended to. Reiji was finally making his debut opening announcement to the new comers, and though the words sounded pleasant enough, his eyes and his demeanor left her on edge. She shivered, glancing around the table and likewise lifting her glass after the siblings. After taking a nervous sip, Tanzy finally sipped her first spoonful of bisque, her appetite somewhat impeded despite her hunger by a coil of nerves in her stomach.

The young woman merely glanced up as Bishop threatened the new butler, feeling sorry for the man, but not particularly worried. Bishop was indeed frightening, but he was at least predictable. And despite his threats, he could be talked down by certain individuals. She had no doubt he could and would carry out a threat if angered enough and pushed to, but he didn't hide what displeased him, which made things much easier. Besides, so long as he didn't harm Anise, Tanzy was willing to accept him.

Reiji's voice and sudden movement to reprimand the hot-headed twin made her flinch, uneasy and wary of the man's wrath even when it wasn't directed at her. If he threatened Bishop, she worried that he would in turn threaten Anise, her friend seemingly the only human of any worth to said redhead.

”Anise Delopar? The pleasure’s mine. I’m sorry, I just… you look exactly like someone I once knew. Jason Olivander,”

"Really? I'm sorry to disappoint you, I know how it feels to miss someone. It's not a problem." Her tone was fluid, and she was actually thriving pretty well on her own. Talking to Jason was different than speaking with the Santiago family. He's very attractive for a human.. I feel awful now that I say it like that. How far I've fallen... She didn't have to walk on eggshells. She was beginning to anger Bishop with her constant fear of making him angry, but he was a hotheaded person, she couldn't help but worry that one day she'd slip up and he'd explode on her.

”This dinner you and… Tanzy was it?”

"Yes, her name was a bit difficult for me as well, but with time it will become second nature to pronounce." She assures him, bringing a spoonful of tomato bisque to her lips and quietly sipping it down. She wasn't really sure what to talk about, so she waited for him to say something else. She wasn't exactly good at conversation with strangers. Though he seemed a lot nicer than she first imagined. Her first impression was that Jason was going to be a creep. No one could blame her, the way he was staring anyone would have thought so.

”The dinner is really spectacular.”

"Thank you. Though I doubt you'll have to do a lot of cooking, so don't fret. I think your only household chores would be yard work and a few odd jobs.. Plus Lord Bishop is a very clean person so you'll only have to dust a few things and do his laundry. It's a fairly easy job working for him."

”Anise, how long have you worked here for the Santiagos?”

She took a drink of her wine, and blinked at the question. It's...been a long time... She thought to herself. She noticed she didn't answer aloud so she laughed a bit before speaking again, "I've worked here for a year and one week. Me and my sister both were sent here by our mother. There was a gruesome attack, rebels after the Santiago's land and my sister, among others, were consequently murdered during the madness." Her tone only shook a little as she spoke of the night, and of Alice. Though it bothered her more than words can describe.

"Keep staring boy, and I'll remove your eyes from your skull."

Bishop's tone brought a look of confusion to Anise's face. She turned to stare at her former employer. She wanted to ask what was bothering him, to ask if he was upset because he was hungry, but this wasn't the time or place. She was in charge of Castiel's care now and Bishop's well being wasn't her concern anymore, at least as far as Reiji was concerned.

"Dear brother, that's no way to present yourself to your new butler... I hand picked him, just for you. Apologize to the boy, now. I'm sure he's prepared a reasonable explanation for why he's gawking at your former maid."

She stood, bowing respectfully, "I apologize, Master Santiago.. but Jason was just telling me how he knew my sister, Alice... He never knew she had a twin so he was baffled by how well I resembled her. I was explaining that she died the night the rebels tried to murder the Santiago family." Though she left out the bit about the rebels being Werewolves...and the Santiago family were vampires.

She looked to Bishop, worried that there was a larger issue at hand than Jason's gawking, but unable to speak her mind due to Reiji's presence. She bowed again, staring down at the table. Then she looked to Castiel, "Anything I can get you, my lord?"

"I'm well enough Demetri. Nothing causing you trouble though, is there?"

"Aside from being given a new maid? Nothing... I feel pretty helpless. I couldn't protect Katerina nor Alice.. why should I be trusted with another fragile young girl? I mean...what is she fifteen at best? She's too young and I'm too useless to protect her from our enemies.. I've tried to forget, to push that night from my mind...but I just can't, brother.." He was taking Camilla's young age rather hard, but he made sure to keep his concerns quiet enough to keep them from reaching Camilla's ears. He kept his tone quiet enough that only vampire's could make out the words.

"I would like to make an announcement before we all become entangled in what I am certain will be quite meaningful conversation, I want to welcome Jason Olivander, Camilla Eden, and Jane Christopher to our home. I want everyone to give them the proper Castillo de la Muerte welcome... I am Reiji Santiago, acting head of house and your new employer. I have three rules, One... Do not steal from me or my family.... Two... Obey the lord or lady you've been assigned to... and Three... Never enter my living quarters under any circumstances... if I've made myself clear, I hope each of you find your stay.....tolerable.. With that, I urge everyone to enjoy their meal.... converse...and by all means, have fun.."

Reiji's speech despite being rather charismatic and necessary, was almost sickening to Demetri.. He knew it was simply because he knew the man behind his brother's facade, but he wished that the others were aware as well. He felt like a true monster for not telling Camilla to leave Castillo de la Muerte and never look back. She was a child and he was a monster for letting her stay here among his siblings.. He doubted half of the lot would survive the year.

”A toast. To new beginnings, new memories, and new relationships....To family.”

"To family..." Demetri added smiling to his sister before taking an extended sip from his glass. He was starting to agree with her more and more, maybe family was truly the only thing that would remain constant in their lives. Every love he'd ever taken, human or vampire had always ended rather abruptly, perhaps it was time to throw in the towel and put his heart and soul into caring for those who had no choice but to accept and love him. He hated tossing away his humanity like that, but it was just so damn painful to lose Katerina. He touched his lips, still familiar with how it felt to kiss her, even though it only happened twice. That was the best and yet somehow, also the worst part of being a vampire. Memory, you couldn't forget anything. I'll never forget... That is my punishment, but also bliss. It's so bittersweet..

"Keep staring boy, and I'll remove your eyes from your skull."

"Bishop, I doubt that's-"

"Dear brother, that's no way to present yourself to your new butler...I hand picked him, just for you. Apologize to the boy, now. I'm sure he's prepared a reasonable explanation for why he's gawking at your former maid."

Well this should be good... Demetri thought to himself, taking a drink of wine as he awaited Jason's excuse, but it never came. Instead, something more interesting unfolded. For the first time since that night, Anise spoke of her sister aloud. He thought she'd surely break into a million pieces, yet somehow she stood strong. He lost a brother that night, yet this human was handling everything she'd been through with grace. Losing her sister, being forced to serve a family of vampires, losing almost all of her former friends.. How did she do it?

"I apologize, Master Santiago.. but Jason was just telling me how he knew my sister, Alice... He never knew she had a twin so he was baffled by how well I resembled her. I was explaining that she died the night the rebels tried to murder the Santiago family."

"Tanzy, Camilla, Jane... it's time for dinner.. Please show them to their seats Tanzy."

Ohh, guess who. Camilla looked up swiftly as the voice came, willing herself not to glare at the man as he came down the stairs, the only girl of the family, Mirabelle leading him into the main hall. Of course, her obvious distaste of the man may be misdirected, but Camilla wasn’t one to bother even understanding him properly. First impressions were important, you may not get the chance to know them better. Moving to the seat marked with her name, Camilla slid in quickly, noticing that she and Jane were one of the few last ones to take their seats. Jason was already staring intently at Anise, giving her a strong urge to nudge the man. She was on tenterhooks with this family, unwilling to take any chances. Not with her employer around.

"Tonight, the appetizer is a creamy tomato bisque. For dinner, Anise and I have prepared deviled quail eggs, roast chicken, potato salad, fresh rolls, and corn on the cob. For dessert, Anise has created for you two rich cheesecakes, one apple, the other cherry. We have a chilled rosé wine for dinner, and for dessert we have a light chamomile tea."

It sounded and looked delicious, despite most of the names sounding foreign and posh to her. The layout of the utensils were confusing too, it was the first time she had seen so many forks and spoons. Which one should she use first, and where?

"Just in case...work your way in on the silverware. If you mess up a little no one will notice..."
Demetri, her “master” tilted his head toward her, whispering these words with a wink. Work your way in… Picking up the outermost spoon gingerly, she gave him a fleeting, anxious glance. Who knew eating was harder than taking on a fight. In fact, she was on the urge of crying for help, feeling rather helpless with the array of food before her, yet without any idea whatsoever of actually getting to it.
"Is there anything on the table you'd like me to reach for you, little dove?"

“I’m fine. I...guess.”
She didn’t sound very convincing, thats for sure, and with what she was feeling, she wasn’t. The atmosphere around the table was getting gradually more and more tense, and she wasn’t sure if she liked it. Perhaps all rich people do this? She had better get used to the dinners, and learn how to use everything quickly. Being in such a household was more difficult to adjust to than she thought, so she simply ignored everyone and tried her best to look composed, trying not to let anyone notice her discomfort.

"I would like to make an announcement before we all become entangled in what I am certain will be quite meaningful conversation, I want to welcome Jason Olivander, Camilla Eden, and Jane Christopher to our home. I want everyone to give them the proper Castillo de la Muerte welcome... I am Reiji Santiago, acting head of house and your new employer. I have three rules, One... Do not steal from me or my family.... Two... Obey the lord or lady you've been assigned to... and Three... Never enter my living quarters under any circumstances... if I've made myself clear, I hope each of you find your stay..... tolerable.. With that, I urge everyone to enjoy their meal.... converse...and by all means, have fun.."

Do not steal from me or my family? She tried her best to conceal the smirk that was slowly forming at the corners of her mouth. Who would notice? They had so much, surely they could spare some of it. They would never find out, no one she had nicked something from ever did.

"Keep staring boy, and I'll remove your eyes from your skull."

Her eyes moved toward the source of the voice to see another red head threaten Jason from looking at Anise. Things were just getting better and better gradually… She could hardly stand the choking atmosphere around the table, it was so different from what she had experienced. At least the man’s temper was something she had observed before.
Once more, she tuned out from the conversation, trying to remain nonchalent until...
"... she died the night the rebels tried to murder the Santiago family."
What? Her attention completely diverted, she looked toward Anise with curious eyes. Surprisingly, she wasn’t frightened by what she had heard, more curious about the incident. Murder and rebellions was’t something too foreign to the girl, and she had seen plenty of cases for both. Danger and death were two factors present in her daily life, a little more than she would have liked them to be.

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Jason watched Anise with curiosity. She had a sister and looked exactly like his Alice. He wondered briefly if it was her... If her sister was the love of his life. If the love of his life was now dead... "Keep staring boy, and I'll remove your eyes from your skull." Jason hears from down the table. He looks up to see who he thinks is Demetri's twin, Bishop, who also happened to be the one he serves. "I'm sorry sir, that was not my intention... I..." Jason began, stuttering and unsure what else to really say in such a situation. "Dear brother, that's no way to present yourself to your new butler.. I hand picked him, just for you. Apologize to the boy, now. I'm sure he's prepared a reasonable explanation for why he's gawking at your former maid," The one at the head of the table, Reiji, spoke. Jason ducked his head. Already he had stepped over some lines. This was who he served and he had been gawking at his former maid. That must not have been nice.

He was thankful when Anise spoke up, explaining the situation. Jason couldn't have said it better himself really, considering he didn't know how to say it at all... She was helping him even though they had just met, that was a good sign that people here would, or could, be nice and friendly. "I apologize, Master Santiago.. but Jason was just telling me how he knew my sister, Alice... He never knew she had a twin so he was baffled by how well I resembled her. I was explaining that she died the night the rebels tried to murder the Santiago family." Anise's words cut Jason and he knew it probably showed. So she was dead. Alice, the one he had done everything for was now dead. He eyes his wine glass now, the alcohol suddenly far more appealing now than it was moments ago. He nearly reached for it, had lifted his hand, then taken it back, tucking it under his other hand.

He didn't know what these people knew about him, but he wasn't going to let them see him go back to being an alcoholic, a bad one, when he had to make money. "Master Santiago, Lord Bishop, my apologies for causing any distress. I was really, surprised, to see Ms. Anise... Something like this won't happen again," Jason says respectfully. He really didn't like the way things were going. He really just wanted to go hide in his room for now. He knew he probably couldn't leave without permission and even worse, he probably had to go help Bishop with getting ready to sleep or something. He wondered what he'd have to do.

Jason was quiet the rest of dinner, mulling over the new discovery about Alice. He had wondered what had happened to her, had written to her over and over again and never sent the letters. They were even upstairs in his bag. He ate mechanically, and waited until dinner was over, hating every moment of sitting there with this family that seemed to be at odds ends with each other. He liked Anise, she was nice, but he didn't want to like her too much that Bishop would get mad, or overprotective, or jealous, or anything that could potentially result with Jason being out on the street the next morning with nothing but a fair back to his house.

He listened to the conversation, not speaking up as he wasn't sure if he could or not. He listened carefully, looking around at the brothers. He wondered if any of them were like Demetri who seemed abnormally different from the rest of them, excluding the twin he looked just like. Jason briefly wondered if he would be a problem with the family, causing stress and hoping that was not the case. Praying that wasn't the case as that would also be bad. Having half the household hate you? That would really be bad.

Jason's thoughts then went to the attack Anise had mentioned. Attack? Had she really said attack? What kind of attack would kill her sister. He didn't ask as he wondered what could have possibly happened. That was definitely a scary thing to think that the place he was now living at could potentially, eventually, go under attack yet again. How scary that thought was since he had only ever been in a few fights, most of which had been when he was drunk and had just gotten beaten up...

Sparing his twin a thoughtful and somewhat troubled glance, Bishop mulled over Demetri's words regarding how he was coping. Had the tragedy befallen anyone besides their family, he might have scoffed and commented on the hope of forgetting such a night. As it was, he simply thought of what he wished to say to Demetri, his words too private and gentle to be shared aloud with anyone but his twin. 'No one could forget such a night, no matter how much they may want to. It doesn't make you weak. Their fate is no fault of yours, brother...'

His scolding of the human male had an undesired effect of arousing Reiji's attention and his interference. Cursing the older vampire in his mind, Bishop was once more convinced Reiji went out of his way to piss him off and step on anyone else's toes. All while appearing like a gentleman. What an arrogant prick! About to growl at his sibling, Bishop went over the reprimand in his mind, sudden stark realization registering in his brain. Oh so that was what he was playing at? Trying to keep him on a leash and act like he gave a damn how the new hired help were treated. 'So that's your game you bastard? Fine, Two can play at that you pompous son of a bitch.' the redhead thought.

Forcing a calm, innocent smile on his face, Bishop turned to look Reiji in the eyes, fighting the powerful urge to shove the unwelcome hand from his shoulder. "You'll have to excuse me, brother. I merely wished to make it aware just how rudely the young man was behaving. After all, he seemed to forget that staring is quite impolite, and could even become disconcerning to some. After all, what if he were to stare at our dear little sister so? Or yourself? Or your new compulsive maid? Would it be any less unsightly and disrespectful were he to stare at anyone else? I may sound harsh, but I thought it might be startling enough to snap him from the habit more swiftly. Of course I'm not so deplorable that I'd punish him immediately, I merely wished to give him a warning to dissuade bad mannerisms. It'd be terribly awkward for him should he be in the presence of guests and he were to inadverdantly offend them." he explained matter of factly, only looking away to smile at Jason. "You'll have to pardon me, I meant simply to instruct you. My style is unorthodox, but I'm sure you'll become used to it eventually. I'm not heartless after all, just strict."

Satisfied with his answer, Bishop glanced over at Anise, shaking his head at her to signal her to not draw attention to herself, intent on keeping Reiji away from her. Though her words were meant to settle the situation and placate himself and Reiji, it did little to mollify the tempermental redhead. He could honestly care less why Jason was staring, it still pissed him off. Bishop turned back to look at the butler in question, watching him like a hawk. It was all he could do not to scowl at Anise and think of telling her off for not paying attention to his well being. She was his maid dammit! At least Castiel would keep her safe. Even so, it was maddening to watch what was clearly his serve another, even if it was the second-most trustworthy person in his life.

The dinner was definitely strained, but after the initial conflict was over it went much more smoothly. They went through each course and despite the new help not coming from rich backgrounds, they seemed to use most of the silverware in proper order. At least they were fast learners. He stood, bowing to his siblings and the help as everyone finished and he smiled a bit, "I excuse my siblings to depart to their rooms. Dinner is now over, but the help must care for the dishes and cleanup." He stated before pushing his chair in.

He adjusted his glasses before his eyes sternly landed on Tanzy, "After you finish your general duties here I request your presence in my study... it's in your best interest that you don't forget. You know what this is about, don't you love?" He smirked a bit before returning his attention to Anise, Jason, Camilla, and Jane. He didn't wish to meddle with the new help, so he decided that there was no one better to train them than little Anise. Well perhaps Tanzy, but she would be far too busy with him, explaining why her blood was in his brother's dish... Had anyone been rude enough to steal a sip before dinner, it could have proved disastrous for them all. What if one of the new help had escaped with the family's secret. He was almost boiling with rage, but kept his temper in check behind a frosted expression. He'd have plenty of time to see that his maid paid for her dangerous choice... one way or another.

The crimson eyed man then glared at Anise before smiling, it was so sweet that it almost made him nauseous just plastering the expression on his face, "Dear Miss. Delopar... why don't you show the new help to the rooms they will be cleaning after the dishes are done? Castiel's room is on the way after all so it only makes sense.. Besides.. you're fairly incompetent.. At least this is something that not even you can botch it up.."

He knew that his words would probably enrage Bishop, but he decided to retire to his room. He made his way past Bishop, whispering to him so no one else could hear, "At least I didn't order her to never speak to you again...or better yet... I could have erased her memory and pardoned her forever. Think on the bright side; you can still see her..." Then a sadistic look glittered in his eyes as he continued, "I do look forward to seeing your face the first time you see a bandage on her throat after leaving our brother's quarters..." He chuckled, patting his younger brother's shoulder before exiting the dining hall. He made his way to his study, removing his glasses once he made it to the desk. He'd have to make it clear to Tanzy that he would not stand for her defiance, whilst at the same time he needed to quench his own thirst. The smell of Tanzy's blood in Castiel's tomato bisque had tortured him the entire meal. He was on edge up until the moment he made it to his desk and could no longer smell the delectable scent.

He was nearly compelled to claw his nose off at the dinner table, but the fact of it growing back in mere minutes would have been hard to explain to the fresh bloods. He was quite agitated, but he'd get his anger out as soon as the young woman arrived...at least as much as he could without physically harming the girl. You'll rue the day you decided it was wise to defy me...

Somehow they made it through the dinner, and Tanzy felt a sinking dread as opposed to the tired and contented feeling one usually got when enjoying a full and fancy meal. Not even Anise's presence was enough to soothe her tonight, the compulsive female trying to gather every ounce of courage to face Reiji afterwards. No matter how mad he was, she couldn't falter and lose her nerve to bargain with the head of the house. She might not get another chance, and the consequences of not bringing it up were enough to make her sick.

Her heart felt as though it stopped for a second when Reiji's eyes landed on her, his voice demanding her attention and obedience. She was frozen like a rabbit before a fox, but somehow managed to convince her body to move once more. Swallowing hard, she nodded at his words, summoning her mind and lips to speak. "Y-yes sire. I shall be there shortly." Tanzy answered, gesturing the new help to follow her and Anise.

Picking up all the dishes and discarding of any scraps came first, followed by a dusting of the tablecloth, cleaning the dishes, and sweeping the floors. It took less time than usual with all of the help, despite Tanzy 'fixing' certain aspects of how others went about doing the chores. All too soon, the cleaning was finished, and she managed a quick hug and good night to Anise, smiling in as reassuring a manner as she could muster.

Trembling slightly in trepidation, the maid approached the study with a sick feeling of dread in her gut, almost to the point where she thought she'd lose her dinner. What had before seemed like a long distance between parts of the estate seemed like mere feet, standing before the study with fear in her heart. Lifting a hand, she knocked first as she always did, announcing her presence. "M-master Reiji....I'm here." she announced, gingerly opening the door and stepping inside what felt like a waiting death trap.

Mirabelle was quiet throughout dinner, her body rigid and awkward. She never thought that being with her family would come down to this - to eating like strangers. They were only civil for the sake of their guests. Reiji would never let her in the way she wanted to be, he couldn't afford that weakness. Demetri and Bishop were inseparable and the man that sat beside her had no idea who she was. Belle had merely pushed the food around on her plate, never once bringing it to her lips. Her eyes more than once left the idle conversation of her siblings to look at Jane. Mira was intrigued by her silence, wondering what it was that invaded her consciousness.

She slightly jumped when Reiji’s voice washed over her, dismissing them and sending off the new help to clean up dinner. When he spoke to Tanzy, a smirk couldn’t help but to take over her lips, curving one side upwards. Her lips then moved in a silent whisper to the humans, and a low tone to her brother. ”Suck her dry, Rei.” There was a sultry tone to her voice, almost as if she took pleasure in the thought.

Mirabelle moved to stand behind Jane, a slender hand coming to rest delicately on the milky white skin of her shoulder. Her flesh was warm and inviting, something she missed - needed. Oh, how her fangs ached. Heeding her brother's warning, she did tread lightly.

Reiji’s command to Anise took her off guard a little bit. She knew that Reiji didn’t favor her, but she didn’t know that’s how he felt… Bishop. Oh right. With a sigh passing through her lips, she looked down at the woman that would most likely be with her for the rest of her mortal life… That is if Rei didn’t decide to take Jane away from her. "Jane? Do you mind meeting me after your chores are done? I’ll be in our bathing chambers. We have lots to discuss." She knew - hoped - the girl wouldn't disobey her on her first day, she seemed so timid. Mirabelle then escaped upstairs to the washroom, quietly treading after Rei before he veered off to where ever he decided to end up.

Mirabelle took her time lighting candles around the room so that they could see what they were doing while she waited for Jane. She started the small fire in the fire pit, filling the pot with fresh water before she filled the tub. Mirabelle perched herself on the edge of the tub, looking down at the burn in the palm of her hand, already forming blisters. She flexed her hand, stretching out her fingers, sighing when she could barely feel the pain.

For as long as she could remember, Mirabelle forgot what it was like to feel. The very tips of her fingertips still had enough feeling to tell the difference between human and vampire, but the rest of her body was numb. She had been so brutally beaten, not even turning immortal could restore her health. The scars may have been gone, but the damage wasn’t undone. Her brows furrowed together as she stretched out her hand again, waiting for it to heal. If Reiji knew, would that be another secret he’d have to keep? Would it be just another thing to embarrass her family? Jane was going to be her saving grace.

Mirabelle put the warm water into the tub before she stripped and climbed in, clouding the water with soaps that she bought from the merchants in town. She hummed quietly while she waited, combing fingers through now wet hair. The night was still early and her thoughts drifted to how she was going to tell Jane.

"I excuse my siblings to depart to their rooms. Dinner is now over, but the help must care for the dishes and cleanup."

The dinner felt like it had taken forever, but she spent it assisting Castiel in any way required of her, the rest of the time staring down at her food. She barely ate aside from the Tomato Bisque and some of the Roasted chicken. Honestly she didn't feel comfortable dining among the siblings. It always proved... disastrous, just like tonight.

"Dear Miss. Delopar... why don't you show the new help to the rooms they will be cleaning after the dishes are done? Castiel's room is on the way after all so it only makes sense.. Besides.. you're fairly incompetent.. At least this is something that not even you can botch it up.."

She clenched her fist keeping her eyes low, the last thing she needed was to spark any more fury from Reiji. Though his departure did little to cheer her up. Her pride as a chambermaid had been entirely lacerated in one fell swoop. Is that really what Reiji thinks of me? Am I truly an ineffectual servant? Had she not been assigned a duty, she probably would have collapsed then and there, but she nodded as Tanzy ushered the others to follow, and she bowed to Bishop, Demetri, Castiel and Mirabelle. She left without a word, afraid she'd choke on them. The tears that were demanding escape from her lashes were burning, blurring her vision, but she had a task at hand. She nearly tripped and dropped the dishes she held, but managed to rectify her balance. At least nothing broke.. She thought, possibly the most positive thought she'd had the entire day.

"Y-yes sire. I shall be there shortly."

Anise's woeful gaze landed on Tanzy and she gave the girl a weak assuring smile. She wasn't sure what Reiji wanted, but judging by his attitude since dinner began, she was sure nothing good would come from allowing Tanzy behind closed doors with that monster. She silently rushed to assist Tanzy, checking on the abilities of the other's out of the corner of her eye. She didn't expect too much, but was impressed. They were a lot more help than she'd expected. Though Tanzy and herself would have plenty of time later to aid the others in honing their skills. She pointed to the bin of waste, before forcing herself to speak, "Jason, would you mind carrying the metal bin outside and burning that? I suggest a cloth over your face.." She retrieved one, extending it to him. She avoided eye contact with the others, afraid of showing her weakness to them. They'd definitely find her sensitivity to mere words to be moronic.

She hugged Tanzy back, running a hand through the other woman's hair before releasing her, "Do be careful.." She warned her friend, sighing as she fled to her Master's request. Anise was growing to detest life as a servant. There wasn't a single perk to her job... not one.. It only brought the humans who resided here pain, suffering and possibly an invitation to an early grave. She turned her attention quickly to Jane, Camilla and Jason, after he'd been given proper time to return. Then her eyes landed on Camilla and she swept over to the wine cabinet, handing the small girl a bottle, "I nearly forgot...Lord Demetri likes a glass of wine before bed and two when he wakes. It never seems to effect his sobriety. He likes off-dry wines, with a fruity or sweet flavor... I can help you learn the types if you're unfamiliar."

Then her eyes turned to Jason, "L-Lord Bishop doesn't like a lot of questions. Do your job and hold your tongue. If he asks a question, answer it, but never forget to address him the way he tells you to." She nodded quickly, rubbing the back of her neck, a small blush forming on her face, "I was terrified when I became his maid... but he's really not as mean as he puts himself out to be..." She added, unsure of why she felt awkward saying that aloud. I'm serving Castiel now. He doesn't seem nearly as terrifying. Actually it makes me sad to see him this way..

Finally she turned her attention to Jane, "Lady Santiago is quite nice, as long as you show respect. I haven't had much time to familiarize myself with her, but she doesn't seem very strict. You should be fine. I'm regretful that I cannot give you tips on how to please her." She smiled gently, then clapped her hands together with a closed eyes, "Does anyone have questions before I show you to the rooms you'll be tending to for the duration of your stay?" She just wanted to get this all over with so she could preform her own duties and get some fresh air before bed. None of that would happen if they didn't get a move on.

”Suck her dry, Rei.”

The words stuck in Reiji's mind, persistently repeating. They taunted him, and as tempting as Mirabelle's words had been... he couldn't bring himself to do that to Tanzy. She did disobey him, so a punishment definitely was in order.. however he was still a gentleman at heart and could not murder someone whom he had no vendetta against, especially a woman. She was innocent except for defying his word. It wasn't incriminating enough to sentence her to the long and painful death of being bled dry. Though draining their victims of blood entirely was among the unrivaled pleasures a vampire could experience. His gums were totally tempted to rip into her neck, and refuse to release the rosy female until her body was completely void of life. His eyes scanned several letters, and he wrote his signature in a robotic fashion, completely void of interest in the matter. He was really growing tired of the paperwork involved. It seemed no matter how many times he signed his name, there was always some sort of request from the poor or other nobles. The job of writing his name never ended. Lord forbid he had to actually write a letter in response. Reiji felt like throwing one of his temper tantrums he'd commonly throw on Mrs. Santiago, when she took the task of educating Reiji upon herself. She dealt with several outbursts and tears. He absolutely hated his studies, but here he sat at the top, grateful for her hard work. If it wasn't for her, he would have never become the man, nor the vampire he was today. He thought of her fondly... every single day of his existence. Don't lose control Rei..

"M-master Reiji....I'm here."

"Close the door behind you, Tanzy..." He waited for her to do as she was told, before intertwining his fingers as he rested both elbows on his desk, "Where in your right mind did you find lacing my brother's meal with your blood to be a good idea?" He continued, voice stern and angry. He was tempted to raise his voice, but decided against it due to the newcomers. He had to approach the situation carefully. If any of the new bloods overheard this conversation, all hell would surely break lose. He gritted his teeth before letting out a breath, attempting to calm himself, "I'm going to punish you, and you're never going to do something so dangerous again. What if someone else had tasted Castiel's food? You could have endangered everyone here!" His voice nearly was a shout, but he mentally reminded himself to remain calm, "Do you think the villagers would realize that Anise and yourself are human? We would all burn at the stake for vampirism, including Camilla, Jane, Jason, and Anise. Do you want that!?" The anger was evident by his furrowed brows and the ice in his tone, but aside from that, he remained fairly calm. He was always......so controlled. What exactly went on in his head? When would he explode? It was only a matter of time.