Castillo de la Muerte

Reiji began where he left off, writing thank you letters and signing agreements, but looked up from his pile of responsibility when he noticed the door shut behind whom he assumed to be Tanzy. Though the look on her face brought a frown to his. He sat back in his chair and removed his glasses, "Don't look so gloomy, love.." He chuckled at the girl, whom seemed far more timid around him when they were alone. It was kind of nice, basking in the fact that he frightened her. Though unlike that overly sweet girl outside, this one had more backbone. He liked that in a pet.

"Consider this...a promotion. Castiel doesn't even remember who you are and your services would be much more useful here. I can't keep this place tidy and do what work needs to be done. So the only logical choice was to remove you." He returned to his writing, without his glasses. Apparently they were just a comfort mechanism, something from his human years he couldn't let go of... which was quite odd for someone like Reiji. His personality seemed to reject all signs of sentiment. Just how many layers did the man mask with his cruelty? Not that anyone would be able to peel through any time soon.. It was just food for thought, really.

"I don't want you cleaning, or even entering my quarters... The only responsibility you have under my direct orders is to keep my office tidy.. also to continue your regular house chores with Anise and the new help. Be kind to them and by no means are you to reveal our...family history to them. Leave that to my siblings..are we clear?"

”Rei?”

"Leave us.. We'll resume after dinner tonight.." He motioned to Tanzy, obviously not entirely thrilled to have his snack interrupted, but not necessarily angry either. Mirabelle was perhaps the only thing that stood between Reiji's fangs connecting with Tanzy's jugular right about now. He brushed back his hair and put his glasses back on. He waited for Tanzy to leave and the door to properly shut before turning to Mirabelle, "Yes, sister?" he asked, his crimson eyes meeting her sapphire gaze, "Is it time to begin already? We've got dinner soon... but a short lesson can't hurt.. We can continue after our obligations, if you wish.. Unless you have other plans for your maid.." A smirk grew on his face as he let out a soft sigh. He had been so close.. A few more minutes and he could have indulged in his own thirst. The tease of Tanzy's scent was still clawing at his throat, causing it to feel dry and itchy. Like he hadn't had something to drink in weeks. It was growing rather irritating and after their human dinner he planned to remedy that. Before Mirabelle's lessons continued, he needed to feed his inner beast. It had been far too long since he succumbed to his monster. Soon, the monster would overcome him.. He couldn't have that.. He had to keep a certain level of nobility about himself, he couldn't act like a raging animal in front of anyone important.. including his siblings. He, unlike Demetri could no longer slaughter entire villages.. it would be bad for his reputation.. and speaking of, he couldn't simply -allow- his brothers to go on their 'hunting trips' anymore. It always ended in a quite obvious blood bath. Soon the Vampire Counsel would intervene and ask why Reiji couldn't control his siblings. It would be HIS head they took.. along with his family's. I can't let that happen. I have so much to do..

Tanzy felt the hairs on the back of her neck rise in trepidation as Reiji frowned, fearing the worst. How long would she survive this reassignment? She didn't doubt the man would not hesitate to eliminate her if she displeased him in any way. His words didn't sound angry though, and hearing the glasses being placed aside on his desk, she dared to glance up at Reiji. He didn't need the glasses to see? In spite of her situation, she found her gaze lingering for a second in curiousity.

A part of her wished to combat him and ask how she could possibly not be gloomy in such a circumstance. This hardly felt like a promotion, it felt like a waiting death sentence. She managed to hold her tongue, a look of surprise and confusion in her features as the intimidating vampire before her continued. To be told to not go into a room without permission was one thing, but to not enter a room at all? That was a new one to her. And even more surprising was that he forbade her from cleaning said room. Why would she not clean his quarters? She assumed that someone who kept their room tidy would more than likely automatically clean their work space as well. Deciding it best not to ask for now, she tried to reason in her mind that his room was probably something he wanted full control of, his privacy and belongings too personal to share.

Tanzy nodded as he spoke, listening to Reiji's commands with growing confusion. Be nice to the new help? Did he think her rude? Mean? She never thought she was unduly disrespectful or unkind, and if so, no one had told her such. The only person she truly felt animosity towards was his sister Mirabelle, and she didn't go out of her way to encounter the vampiress.

Finally prompted to convey she understood, Tanzy nodded once more and managed to look up at her new master as she spoke. "Yes sire..." she murmured, only to hear and see none other than the object of her rare but unwavering dislike. Bowing slightly to Reiji and giving a curt nod of her head to Mirabelle, Tanzy excused herself, taking a deep shaky breath before straightening up and heading to the kitchens, remembering with a start that the final preparations needed to be completed.

Tanzy arrived just seconds shy of her friend, giving Anise a gentle and hopefully reassuring smile. She didn't want her friend to worry about her. Looking with apparent approval at the cakes so finely baked and decorated by the ebony haired maid, Tanzy double checked the serving platters, helping Anise load them to place upon the table in a lavish presentation.
Turning at the sound of an unfamiliar voice, the maid saw a young brown haired woman, the stranger inquiring about the food and a sample. About to answer, Tanzy was handed first the chicken and then her now-finished potato salad to put onto the cart and wheeled into the dining room. She flushed at Anise's praise of her food, wondering how Anise could not think she was just as good in the kitchen as she.
"You flatter me Anise. I'll start placing the dishes out, the table is set already, so don't worry about it. We just need to bring out the food and drinks." Tanzy loaded the first two platters onto the small dining cart, pushing it out to place them on the table.

Glad everything still appeared to be picture perfect, Tanzy settled the golden brown chicken in the center of the table as the showpiece of the dinner. By the time the table was finished, there would be a neat line of platters along the center of the table and a bowl of bisque as an appetizer already waiting at their place as people seated themselves.

Looking at the beautifully browned poultry, Tanzy clenched her fists, unable to banish Reiji's threats against her friend from her mind. She knew what she would do now. She hadn't had a chance to say it, but as soon as Reiji summoned her, she knew what she had to say. She feared the man, but if he would listen to her, then maybe she'd at least be able to make an arrangement that would offer some slight peace of mind. She vowed to take it up with her master as soon as they were alone once more.

Mirabelle waltzed into the study room that Rei had taken over, moving to collapse into one of his chairs, her legs flawlessly swinging over the arm and landing against the fabric with grace and ease. She let her head fall back to the other arm so that she could see his face, then longingly looked towards the direction Tanzy left in. If only she waited just a little while longer… ”Now?... Are you trying to tell me to stop waking you up in the middle of the day?” She asked, furrowing her brows with a teasing, questioning look.

“Speaking of our guests…” She trailed, her fingers twisting the ends of her blonde hair. ”Brother, I’m so hungry. Please tell me we can tell them quickly so I can eat.” She pleaded gently. Anise and Tanzy had been there for Cas and Bishop when ever they needed, and the both of them were there at Reiji’s grasp if he so wished, but Mirabelle was tired of dealing with drunken fools in the middle of the night, as not to bring unwanted attention.

With Mira’s attention span, she was only sitting in the chair for a few breaths before she found her way to the bookshelves, lined in books she never got the chance to open yet. Her finger tips played against the dusty covers, pulling one that was written in Spanish. She let the cover spill open, foreign combinations of letters covering its pages. She glanced at the hand drawn images meant for the eyes of a child, smiling as she remembered what they were about, even if she couldn’t read the words. Mirabelle carefully tucked the book back into its place before she turned her back, facing her brother once more as she gave him her full attention.

”Any way we can do it all at once and the easiest way possible?” She asked in a hopeful tone, her tongue flicking lightly at a fang. Mirabelle contemplated bringing up the topic of why he hired a man for Bishop, but decided that now probably wasn’t the time. She knew that Jane was very capable of being what she needed her to be, but women just tended to be so fragile. She wanted someone who would embrace what they were there for, not shy away from it. It was a very enjoyable experience and she couldn’t understand why people were so scared – then again they didn’t have the greatest reputation.

Mirabelle reached out for his hand, grasping it tightly and attempting to pull him out the room and towards the kitchen. ”Now is as good as time as any, right?” There was a sparkle of excitement in her eye, trying to move quickly so that Reiji would just act instead of think, but lately it hasn’t worked out for her. She waited any moment for him to stop her and tell her that there was a smarter way to do it – a better time for it… something.

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Jane took a deep breath, then emerged from her room, tugging at the bottom of her dress. She didn't want to be wearing it if she was to be honest. At least to dinner where she would be meeting her employers and those that would be paying her salary for the next few months. They had made it for her, so it wouldn't be bad, but would she really be able to pass it off with the rest of the family if they hadn't seen it yet.

Taking a deep breath, she walked down the hall. She wondered if Mirabelle was waiting for her though she didn't know how she would possibly know how to find the seemingly younger girl. "Camilla? Mirabelle? Demetri? Jason?" Jane asked as she walked down the hall. She realized that she was going the wrong way too late as she happened upon men instead of the stairs. It was just like her to get lost on her first day when she only had two, three places show to her.

There was one tall blonde man and she couldn't help but be surprised. He didn't look all that much like Demetri if she remembered. Didn't Demetri mention a twin brother? This couldn't be him could it? Jane was about to ask where she was when she thought better of it. She turned to go back down the hall she had originally gone down, hoping she hadn't been noticed. She walked quickly and eventually found herself in somewhat familiar halls.

She managed to find the stairs without getting lost and upon doing so, went down them. She followed voices she heard until she happened upon another man and some girls that looked to be other maids. She even saw Camilla which made her smile. She walked into the kitchen and could smell what was food that had been cooked.

She saw the man lean over the cakes, this one looked a lot more like Demetri than that blonde upstairs did, they even had the same color hair. He licked his lips and said something to one of the other maids. Jane didn't quite catch it as she came in and looked around, unsure what else to do. "Camilla," Jane says as she approaches.

She nodded to the others and gave a small wave, unsure what else she should do. "Hi everyone, my name is Jane," Jane stated softly, not being a loud person. She looked to where the girl pushed the cart and followed her a dew feet as she looked in to see an exquisite meal laid out for the household to enjoy that night. She wondered if she and Camilla and Jason would sit at the table with the household and the other maids, or if they would just dine later and be introduced at dinner. She had no legitimate idea that would make sense other than what she had already listed though she didn't know why there would be a need for the new help to dine with the household since they were aristocracy.

Jane didn't even know which utensil was which and wondered if that would be a bad thing should she have to eat with the household. Would they still want her as a maid or would they just send her home and tell her to keep the uniform since it was made to fit her.

Jane noticed the other maids had on the same outfit and thought they looked new too. Maybe this uniform was just new altogether for the help. She wondered if Jason had a something as unusual as their outfit, but doubted it when she considered it. He was probably in a suit as most men are considering he is a butler for them after all...

"You flatter me Anise. I'll start placing the dishes out, the table is set already, so don't worry about it. We just need to bring out the food and drinks."

"Not at all.. I'll get to the drinks once I'm done perfecting dessert, if you don't beat me to it.." Anise replied with a teasing giggle to the blossom haired woman. They'd been around each other for about a year now, and Anise was growing quite accustomed to her presence, and was comfortable enough to laugh with her now. They even spent some of their free time talking about their previous lives... although Anise never dared mention Derek, even to Tanzy, she assumed it would come up eventually but she wished to keep him a secret. She didn't want to let on that she cared for anyone outside of the manor else they might suffer dire consequences if she screwed up. She clung to the trinket around her neck like a timid child gripping at their mother's skirt. It was pretty hideous, but it was the best that the farmer's son could afford. It was her own treasure of sorts.. The last remaining reminder that she once had a normal life.

She put her hair up quickly in high ponytail before placing the dirty dishes in the wash bucket. She returned to admiring her work, until she noticed someone else enter the room. The girl had dark brown hair, and it was rather short too..but it suited her face rather well. Anise smiled, albeit a bit shyly. She wasn't used to the newcomers yet, and having herself alone (or so she thought) with two of them made her feel relatively uneasy.

"Camilla." "Hi everyone, my name is Jane,"

The brunette spoke to the lighter haired girl between them. So the smaller girl is named Camilla.. I'll have to keep that in mind. Anise made a mental note. She didn't want to step on any toes with the new help.. Getting her name wrong would be a horrible start. They would be working together, and although she was unsure of how long the newcomers would last once the true nature of Castillo de la Muerte's was revealed to them she wished to be friendly towards them all the same. Anise bowed to the two of them, parting from their conversation and about to pick up the desserts when a familiar voice rang through her ears.

"I believe you offered me a sample..."

She spun around on her heel and nodded quickly, chewing on the inside of her cheek to get a grasp on her nervousness before it overwhelmed her. Every time Castiel, Reiji, or Bishop spoke, she felt different levels of anxiety crash over her. Though Castiel rescued her from Reiji.. and Bishop gave her the opportunity to enact her revenge.. Neither seemed nearly as horrible as Reiji. Although she knew better than to truly drop her guard around either. A vampire is still a vampire.. I cannot allow myself to be blinded by their recent behaviors.. They're not actually human despite how much their outer appearance suggests it.. No matter what.. I cannot slip up. I have to become a stronger person and live on, for Alice.. but yet.. No. Snap out of it. Your crush on Castiel died the night you mourned his death. He may still be alive.. but he's not human, neither is Bishop. Derek...Derek is human. I will see him again one day..I have to believe that.

It had been quite some time since Bishop first announced himself among the maids, and Anise didn't even seem to notice she had zoned out for a minute or two, until she found herself sort of...staring at Bishop. She wasn't actually STARING in the first place per se... but it certainly appeared to be the case to those who were paying attention the entire time. Anise was simply lost in her thoughts, but from any outside perspective she'd been staring at him an awkwardly long period of time. Once she came to, Anise immediately turned her back to him. I keep getting myself in these weird situations... Perhaps it will be different once I officially begin serving Castiel. I might be able to work without constantly being teased and toyed with.. Anise's eyes darted as she panicked, for a moment forgetting what she was supposed to be doing. Though it wasn't long before she zipped away to collect two clean spoonsand collected samples of both types of cake, hoping he wouldn't mention her mishap.

She returned to Bishop with both spoons, looking up at him before letting out a self-reassuring sigh, "Cherry or Apple Cheesecake?" She asked rather rushed, praying he didn't notice or would forget to mention her moment of..gawking? I wasn't gawking..but I suppose it really did look like it from his point of view...but what am I supposed to say I was doing!? I can't actually tell him I was reminding myself to never trust a vampire... That would be rude.. not to mention- The thought of his temper only quickened her nervous heartbeat and she tensed. The other two.. they don't.. but Camilla is just a child.. Fright and disgust instantly enveloped her and she closed her eyes tight. She didn't want to raise alarm. The worst thing she could possibly do is cause the other two to become scared already.. Their nightmare would begin soon enough..

"Which... would you prefer first... Lord Bishop..?" Her words were forced, seeing as her mind unfortunately flipped to worrying about the young girl she'd just met. Jane seemed to be closer to her own age so she felt less worried, she'd manage.. hopefully... but Camilla was so small.. She couldn't have been over sixteen.. What was Reiji thinking!? Hiring a child in a place like this.. It's.. unforgivable... The whole mess had her a nervous wreck.

She waited for him to take a bite before bowing, excusing herself with the trolley of cakes. She placed them among the large dining table accordingly, and smiled to Tanzy, "Finally done.. You did such a splendid job with the table as always. Go ahead and do your thing Tanzy to make sure I didn't miss anything, you know I don't mind. I'll ring the bell to announce everything is finished.." she let out an exhausted laugh and she scurried along to ring a small triangle hanging in the kitchens. Though she noticed Mirabelle leading Reiji along already towards the kitchens.

"Tonight's meal has already been set up in the dining room Lady Santiago, Lord Bishop..." Then her eyes drifted to Reiji and she felt like she could collapse where she stood. Which just so happened to be almost exactly where she stood a year ago as she had a breakdown when it was revealed to herself, Olivia, Tanzy, and Alice that the brothers were vampires. The thought tightened her muscles and she balanced herself, eyes determined as her amethyst eyes glared to Reiji, "..Master Santiago.." her voice wasn't necessarily rude, but the tone was quite different than the one she used with the other lords of Castillo and even Lady Mirabelle.

Anise did NOT like Reiji and she was finally ready to admit it. Now she just had to wait for Castiel and Demetri. Bishop, Reiji, and Mirabelle were already in her line of vision along with Jane and Camilla. Isn't there one more that was supposed to be brought on as help?

As the second of the new help came into the kitchen, Bishop turned to regard the brunette girl with a bored expression, silently appraising her before looking back at Anise. The new humans looked rather fragile, one of them looking no older than a child. Reiji truly was a sick bastard, not that he didn't already know that. But still, a child? Bishop didn't hate children, not that he wouldn't make one his dinner, but he didn't go out of his way to do so, nor did he particularly have any reason to dislike them. Only brats made him consider hating them. In any case, he doubted the one called 'Camilla' would last long. How would she be able to cope with being a handy snack and maid for a vampire? He could almost feel sorry for her, but she exited his mind as quickly as she had entered it, his human spinning around to face him at his reminder of her offer.

Watching his maid with a expression of suppressed bemusement, Bishop noticed her slip into her anxious, thoughtful staring episode. What on earth was his little human thinking so much about? He quirked a brow, looking at her offerings once she finally recovered enough to serve him. He pointed to the apple, always a save the best for last type of person. Cherry was a fruit he liked, so apple first, then end with a cherry cheesecake. He parted his lips slightly, allowing Anise to feed him.

The redhead was about to speak after being presented his sample, only to see his little dove push out the trolly to have the cakes ready to put down as soon as the main meal was consumed. The platters with the chicken and other entrees would be plucked up and the cakes would take their place at the proper time. Tea would accompany the desserts, as evident by the tea sets on a second trolley. He nearly sighed in annoyance. There she went again, looking at him with that flighty anxiety. She should be smart enough to realize he wasn't going to hurt her for no reason. After all, she did very little to upset him, and he found her welcome enough company. Silly human. He'd have to remedy that at some point.

He followed behind her at a distance, looking up to see Mirabelle and the prick come down the stairs. He nodded to his sister, but ignored his brother as he ignored the new help. Anise's dinner announcement was proper as always, but her tone was slightly off when she addressed Reiji. Not in any mood to see Reiji touching her again, he gripped her shoulder tightly, not only to keep her within reach, but so he could show the prick he was capable of being firm with her.

"Mind the tone. You'll get yourself into trouble, don't want to lose our heads...do we?" he warned her, looking ready to shoo her back towards Tanzy in the dining room. He pushed her with one strong hand on her back, leaning down to whisper into her ear with a smirk once their backs were to Reiji and Mirabelle. "I noticed you were lingering earlier....enjoy the view?" he teased in a whisper, finally letting her go.

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Tanzy couldn't help but smile as she was setting the table, hearing her friend tease her. Tanzy would have answered, but Bishop seemed to demand Anise's attention for the time being. Despite his rough and temperamental behavior, Tanzy felt Anise was safe enough around him, the male showing no signs of actual maliciousness towards her ebony haired friend.

She hummed as she made final adjustments, thinking to herself. 'I could make a thousand cakes and never once come out with one a perfected as yours Anise.' she thought, looking up as she heard footsteps behind her. First one of the new maids and then Anise with her cakes appeared behind her, earning a smile from the young woman. She glanced at the cakes, licking her lips without realizing it. Anise was the queen of baking in the Santiago house, and no amount of obsessive compulsiveness or fixing from Tanzy could bring her close.

Once more flushing at the praise, Tanzy waved a hand dismissively at her friend. "Don't sell yourself short Anise. I couldn't do all this without your help." she assured the younger female, watching her go to announce dinner before turning her attention to the young woman who followed her into the dining room. The female seemed to look at tad concerned about something, earning a sympathetic gaze.

"Everything all right? You can always ask us if you need something." Tanzy said, looking over the one who announced herself as Jane. A nice name. Realizing she had yet to introduce herself, Tanzy shook her head to somehow regain her wits and manners. "Forgive me, I was rude not to introduce myself as well. I'm Tanzy." Still smiling in what she hoped was a reassuring manner, the perfectionist glanced up to see Reiji and Mirabelle outside the dining room, coming down the stairs. Soon she would face him, and she swalowed hard, repeating what she needed to say to him. Perhaps if she was lucky she'd be able to catch Reiji before dinner and talk to him, ask him her request.

"Of course you can, though we can't make a habit of this, Master Reiji might get angry. Professionalism is important here. I'm Anise, what's your name?"

The girl with long black hair said as she offered her a spoonful of the potato salad she was making. Reiji? She assumed that Anise meant her sadistic employer. It seemed pretty like him to get angry over the lack of professionism , whatever that phrase meant. She took the spoon and popped it into her mouth, but she didn’t get the chance to give her name before another red head arrived, with almost the same appearance as the ‘Demetri’ person who first introduced them to the manor. Her eyes widened slightly in surprise, but she dismissed that fact as soon as she noticed it. Twins, they were twins. She had seen some in her stay at the orphanage, though those were rare to come by, even on the streets. She held back the urge to glare back as he gave her a skeptical look, choosing to ignore it as if she hadn’t seen it being directed at her. He was technically her higher up, and she didn’t wish to do anything to offend them on her first day. Who knows what those so called nobles would do.

They were soon joined in the kitchen by a woman with pink hair, Tanzy, the other maid by Demetri’s introduction if she remembered correctly. She took the chicken and the some of the food out on the cart, toward where the dining table was. She and Anise seemed to get along well enough, and she hoped it will be that way in her stay there. Not finding anything better to do, Camilla almost breathed a sigh of relief as Jane came in, addressing her before greeting the others. “Hey, Jane.” She said, slipping behind her, trying to remain hidden. She had attracted enough attention for a day, and now that more people arrived, she didn’t feel like attracting any more. She was not going to deny the fact that she was nervous, that being her first time as working as a maid. She wasn’t even sure she could handle the delicate objects, but at least she remembered how to eat properly, having mimicked them in the orphanage just for fun. However, the urge to pocket some would probably be an internal struggle she would face for the whole of her stay there. But who can help themselves?

Peeking out behind Jane, she noticed that her employer, the sadistic bastard Reiji was descending along with the girl Mirabelle, Jane’s ‘master’. She couldn’t help but cover her smirk behind her hand at noticing Anise’s tone in addressing him. So she wasn’t the only one that thought of him badly, at least.

"Everything all right? You can always ask us if you need something." "Forgive me, I was rude not to introduce myself as well. I'm Tanzy."

Nothing she didn’t know from his introduction, but she was secretly proud about having identified them before they introduced themselves. Suddenly remembering the fact that she has not told them her name, she took the spoon out of her mouth and said to Tanzy “I’m Camilla, in case you didn’t know.”

"That's sounds like a wonderful idea,"

Demetri's eyes scan Jason for a moment before he closes them, an amused smile forming on his lips. Sitting with this human is quite relaxing... I have to say I enjoy his company.. I do envy you on this Bishop.. He thought to himself before reopening his emerald orbs. He said nothing for a moment, before continuing the conversation, "Yes, the manor is quite old and I wish for everyone to become quickly familiar with it. Anise got lost for nearly an entire day when she first began her duties here."

"Yes sir, I'm looking forward to meeting your brother too,"

This caused Demetri to chuckle. I suppose no one has mentioned my dear Bishop's temper to this poor young lad. He smiled afterward, and if they were physically closer he probably would have patted Jason on the shoulder, "We're quite different.. but so long as you keep your words and actions in line you typically won't meet Bishop's inner monster. You should get along fine." He reassured the boy, although he wasn't quite sure just how reassuring his words were. It sounded appropriate until he'd uttered the words aloud, which then made him doubt his abilities to put people at ease. I'm losing my touch I suppose... Ever since she died I haven't felt the same towards humans.. I can't...relate..

"No, no thank you. I prefer... avoiding alcohol as much as possible,"

"I understand entirely. It's not every man's choice of poison, I just find it helps me get through my day with minor inconvenience.. Though Scotch is Reiji's drink. I prefer fine wines.." Just the mention of the substance had Demetri holding his glass of liquor almost as if it were a wine glass, but he caught himself mid-daydream and corrected his grasp on the glass. He took a drink, secretly taking in every gesture, every fluctuation in Jason's heartbeat. This 'chat' was entirely meant to scope out their new butler. Demetri wanted a sense of whom was working in his home, and so far he was impressed. Jason hadn't lied once, though something about the offer of alcohol made his heartbeat rather... nervous. He could smell the anxiety. It practically poured from the man at that point. Bad experience with substance...? I'll ask another time. For now it's not my place to inquire about his previous life..I assume Reiji already handled that..

"Mr.Demetri, is that what I should call you and those around the house?"

He nearly choked on his liquor as Jason addressed him as Mr. Demetri. He found the incorrect term rather cute, but he knew Reiji would find immeasurable offense in such a mishap. He stood and dramatically waved his arm and gracefully ended the movement with his thumb pointed at himself, "I am what one as yourself would address as a lord. My older brother Reiji is 'Master Santiago' since he is enacting head of the household due to my eldest brother, Castiel's illness."

"I just wanted to thank you for the suit. It fits incredibly well and is very nice. The entire outfit is, extremely well done,"

Then Demetri blinked. The maids hardly appreciated his tastes, so it was quite refreshing to hear that someone admired his handiness with a needle and cloth. He nodded back, a bit of a grin on his face, "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..." His eyes saddened a bit as he remembered a flash of the past. Himself and Bishop hiding inside a building, they were human at the time, barely eighteen at the time. They didn't have guns of course, but swords in their hands, "No that lifestyle never was for me.. My mother did send Bishop and myself to war however..We barely survived it."

He heard the ring of the bell and ushered for Jason to follow him, "Dinner is ready. It's time to meet the family." He mused, chugging the rest of his scotch and sitting the empty glass on one of the nearby end tables. He made his entrance with Jason in tow around the time Bishop was hurriedly shoving Anise from the scene, which he overheard but decided to keep his nose out of it.

"Sister... Reiji... shall we dine?" and he once again motioned for Jason to follow him. He didn't mean to lead the man around like a child, but he also didn't want to leave him in the company of Reiji, despite his determination to avoid all familial conflict. "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.."

”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.

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It’s an amazing thing; the mind. It holds so much, survives an extensive amount of trauma. It’s the source of infatuation, malice, the root of which knowledge stems. The mind is a crucible of highs and lows, ups and downs…everything ranging from the sinister to the innocent all accumulates in that sepulcher of nerves. For Castiel, he’s lost all of that. There were no traces of the malicious intent he once held in the depths of his soul, no infatuation with power, and all of his knowledge of the world he had grown to love and hate has been completely eradicated. Castiel is a blank slate as he watches Anise and Bishop take their leave. He feels hallow in a sense, following the two into the kitchen in a haze of uncertainty. He’s made a promise that he intends to keep, but let’s face the facts. He’s not sure what he’s fighting for. His family? To him, they are strangers that happen to know his name. Pride? What pride does he have left to hold onto? He doesn’t know his cause, but he’s knows that he feels a deep-seated passion about it in the marrow of his bones. His heart is telling him that he needs to reclaim his position as master of Castillo de la Muerte.

The trek to the kitchen is a silent one. He’s almost like his old self in that respect. He’s never been the talkative type, feeling as though he shouldn’t waste his time with words when he can prove his point with just a cold stare. Now, although he’s not striking fear into the hearts of others, his silence is still second nature to him. Curiously, he takes in the new faces, wondering their relation to him. Were they friends? Family? He doesn’t dwell; the truth is bound to reveal itself sooner or later. In the meantime, Castiel hangs back, keeping his distance as he idly fingers the v-neck of his tunic. He runs his fingers through his golden locks before trailing his fingers along length of his collarbones, and then dropping them to his sides. From his spot, he watches in faint awe as the others interact.

He envies them all to a degree. They can connect to one another on some level and Castiel just…can’t. Sighing, he moves on. He slips away unnoticed, making his way into the dining hall before the rest of them. Without thinking about it, he takes his place at the table, lounging in his seat as opposed to sitting rigidly in his seat much like he used to. He rests his cheek against his knuckle as he leans into the armrest. His sparkling azure gaze is purposely boring into the wall as he mulls over the various faces he’s scene today. He’s tasting the names on his tongue, allowing their voices to mingle in his head; he’s matching those voices with a plethora of visages; connecting those visages to expressions, and allowing it all to mesh into memories. However, as expected, it’s all for naught. Nothing is connecting…nothing makes sense! Running his tongue over his bottom lip, Castiel closes his eyes and waits for something—anything that will bring him an inkling of peace of mind. Sadly, he doubts that he’ll ever achieve that.

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.

Bishop nearly chuckled aloud at Anise's protests, pleased he got her to stop looking flighty before him and simply mortified. Anything was better than her constant fear. He was fine with fear, but honestly, she should relax at least somewhat around him. He left her be for now, simply taking his seat and nodding in greeting to his siblings. He was surprised to see Castiel had joined them, and secretly hoped the older male would be alright. His twin's voice earned a half smile and a nod of the head. "I'm well enough Demetri. Nothing causing you trouble though, is there?" he asked softly, only seeming to be actually interested in anything involving his twin, Anise, Castiel or Mirabelle.

It was then that he noticed it. The faint smell of blood. Taking a moment to find the scent, he noticed it coming from Castiel's bowl. For but a moment, he was puzzled as to why he smelled such a thing from tomato bisque, until he recalled how Castiel had been given blood daily to keep up his strength and heal him. Glancing over at Tanzy as she finished describing the meal, he wondered vaguely if she was trying to get herself killed or just losing her mind. She slipped up this time, putting blood into a dish for one vampire when the whole family of vampires were dining. He'd have been no less thrown by her behavior if she had forgotten to sort the dishes.

Bishop nearly sighed in exasperation, hoping he wouldn't have to step in for her in order to keep Anise from fretting. IT was a good thing her blood held no appeal to him. It was like food that one was perfectly capable of eating and would should it be presented, but not food one would go out of their way to eat. It did however, make him wish his bisque was a nice bowl of Anise's blood.

Bishop nearly argued that Anise was his maid and shouldn't be worrying over Castiel when it was clearly Tanzy's job, when he stopped himself upon recalling the newest arrangement by the bastard. Right, Anise would be helping Castiel now. He trusted Castiel, but it was still frustrating. Shaking his head to clear it, Bishop decided he might as well eat.

Bringing a spoonful of soup to his lips, the emerald-eyed vampire caught the new butler staring quite incessantly at Anise. Waiting for it to pass, Bishop felt his irritation grow as Jason did not cease his blatant staring, interest in his features. Finally deciding he'd had enough of the male staring at his maid, the hot-headed twin addressed his butler for the first time.
"Keep staring boy, and I'll remove your eyes from your skull."

"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...