NationStates Jolt Archive

In a dark, vaulted chamber deep within the Ministry of the Occult Citadel, Magus Konnie Hariku worked late into the night by the light of a flickering arc lamp. She scratched away at a paper, writing the last of the invitations for an unusual gathering. As she finished, the magus read it over once before placing the note within a cylinder and sending it down the mail chute for distribution. The note read as follows:

To whom it may concern,

At the request of her majesty, Lady Alexandra Lucius, regent of Akaton, the Ministry of the Occult is hosting an international research conference to examine in detail the phenomenon of vampirism. You are formally invited to attend this event, to be held on galactic standard date (GSD) 0-256-512/M5.

Though one of the most widely known forms of supernatural creature, the vampire has remained a mystery to rational study. We seek to create a compilation of knowledge regarding lesser-known information, included but not limited to; the origin of vampires, the effects of vampirism upon non-human organisms, and the means by which a vampire maintains its undead state of being. Of course, all information is valuable, and all are welcome to contribute to our research.

High Magus of the Society for the Study of Supernatural Beings,
Konnie Hariku
_________________________________________________________________

OOC:
Here's how this is going to work. This thread is open for anyone to send a character, assuming you are not an enemy of Akaton. Characters can be just about anything, as long as you can find a reason for them to come. As this is a research conference, the event is intended to be peaceful, but I won't exclude the possibility of violence within reason (given the method by which vampires feed, this is a distinct possibility).

Your Ladyship,
I have always felt a kinship with the vampiric races as have many of my kind. I believe that I would like to attend your conference. I do hope you will be able to provide adequate refreshments.

Sincerely,
Patricia

Official Reply to High Magus of the Society for the Study of Supernatural Beings:
Attention: Konnie Hariku

We are very interested in your upcoming conference. Our specialists have a wealth of experience and knowledge when it comes to the Vampire race. We would be interested in furthering our own wisdom of these creatures, while sharing our data with your people.

We will prepare our team as we await word of your acceptance.

Specialist Tyro Dent
Adjunct to President Darius Steele
The Freeland of Gawdly

____________________________________________________________-

"Sir, I'm ready to send this...are you sure you don't want to give them more detail?" asked the young man, looking at his boss.

Darius Steele considered for a moment, then replied slowly.

"Well, I'm not sure they would be happy to know that all of our knowledge on blood-suckers comes as the result of hunting them. Though the fact that we have blood and tissue samples, as well as other genetic data should be of interest to them. Still...the less they know now, the better."

He took a long drag of his customary cheroot, and thought about Lauralin. She had taught him much about his own heart, and he had grown to love her desperately. He had learned so much from the Queen of Dragonsreach.

He learned how to love a Vampire.

Paige St John sat at her computer terminal, scanning through a list of interesting requests when she came upon an open invitation to attend a vampire conference. Having always been interested in these creatures, being as there were no known cases in Tartarus, this caught her attention. The opportunity to work with others to get to the bottom of these strange beings was too tempting to resist. Within minutes she had forwarded her request to attend the conference.


To: Konnie Hariku, High Magus of the Society for the Study of Supernatural Beings
From: Dr Paige St John

Subject: Conference on Vampires

I have for many years been studying this phenomenon to ascertain just what it is that gives this apparent undead creatures the lust and will to continue to ‘live’ beyond death. To discover the secrets of their survival and the continued growth of their species has become a passion of mine. I would be grateful, though I admit not to having the answers to all your questions, for the opportunity to attend your conference in order, not only to help you with your studies, but to increase my own understanding of these creatures.

I look forward to receiving word from you.

Yours most interestedly

Paige St John

The feather dipped into the ink one last time and finished the letter with a flourish of signature. Then, it was placed back into a holding jar, where it sat until its services were rendered once more.



Esteemed Leader of Akaton,

It is with some pleasure that I will take up your request to learn more of the nature of vampirism. In Tarlachia, there is an established society of moonwalkers, more commonly known as vampires, that live in a peaceful coexistence of our other cultures and species. As such, we have established much knowledge about the moonwalkers, and will gladly share any knowledge you seek of them. Please expect my arrival at a designated location, to be declared by yourself.

Respectfully,

Sigrun Greenwood
Ruler of The Allied Realms of Tarlachia


The letter was folded with care, sealed in a exquisite envelope and handed to the servant standing next to the elf. Sigrun looked up and nodded, "Swiftly to Akaton now."

To High Magus of the Society for the Study of Supernatural Beings,
Konnie Hariku,

I would like to acknowledge your invitation for this conference and inform you that the Queen of Dragonsreach and myself, Ferranifer Melbourne, Advisor to the Queen, would be interested in participating. It is my understanding that Queen Silverlief has met the Emporor, though she has greater ties with Aiwyn of Resurgent Dream. If we could participate it would be a great honor,

Your truly,
Ferranifer Melbourne,
Advisor to Queen Silverlief,
Dragonsreach.

--------------------------------------------------------------------------

Ferranifer sent the acceptance out and then sat back. 'Now', she thought to herself, 'I just have to convince Lauralin to go.'

Offical response from the Watchgaurd of Ravea
We are interested in attending this conference and are prepared to send a diplomat to research the phenomenon known as Vampirism. Ravea has always had a grey area concerning these creatures, and would be delighted ot learn more about it.
------------------------------------------------
Belanova Orlove sat down to check her mail, and quickly came to an urgent message from the government. An international research conference to examine in detail the phenomenon of vampirism? Looks like she would have to go. Why did I ever become a diplomat? she thought. Belanova picked up the phone and called for trasportation.

To: Society for the Study of Supernatural Beings
Attn: Konnie Hariku, High Magus

First, let me thank you for organizing an international gathering to study the most fascinating subject of vampirism. As this is a topic most germane to my nation, I would consider it an honor to be allowed to participate. Hopefully through our concerted efforts we can synthesize the knowledge which has been garnered by various scientific minds throughout the worlds into a more more complete and thus useful corpus which will benefit all involved.

Most Sincerely,
Kaede Dorgenois
Under-Secretary, Ministry of Science and Information
Repubic of Violets and Kitties

To:Konnie Hariku of the High Magus of the Society for the Study of Supernatural Beings


From: Alec Rapp, head of Simatarian Viral Reasearch


Here in the Golden Simatar we do not have any vampires what so ever. Also, spare for several top goverment officals and scientific heads, no one believes in vampires. I feel that we need a better understanding of these creatures so that we might be prepared if vampires suddenly attack our nation. We do have much in terms of information of how some virus and forgein objects take over part of the human body.

I will send one of my assistances to this conference. He is young and soaks up information like a sponge and is probably the only one on my staff capable of handling this kind of a project.

Doctor Alec Rapp
Head of Simatarian Viral Research

*******************************************

Rapp sent his message from his laptop, got up, and walked to the staff room. It was lunchtime and his 25 year old assistant Todd Harte sat on a couch, eating a sandwich and watching a movie. Rapp looked at the DVD box on the table, George A. Romero's Dawn of the Dead. Todd looked up at his boss.

"Yes boss?" he asked.

Rapp just smiled at the younger man.

The following day, as Konnie entered her office, she smiled at the numerous replies already piled on her desk. Brushing a few loose strands of raven black hair behind pointed ears, she sat down to read through the responses. The magus noted, with varying degrees of interest, the names of the attendees. She had heard of some, though the majority were unfamiliar to her.

Some minutes passed in silence before Konnie set the now-read stack of replies aside. She clicked an ink cartridge in her autopen and dictated to the small machine perched over a sheet of paper.

On behalf of the Ministry of the Occult, I thank you for agreeing to participate in our study. Your assistance will doubtless prove invaluable. The conference itself will be held in the Ministry's Archenhiem facility. If you are unable to reach this location, complementary transportation via sky cruiser will be made available. I eagerly await your arrival.

High Magus of the Society for the Study of Supernatural Beings,
Konnie Hariku

Konnie pressed a recessed button on her desk, automatically rolling the paper into a message cylinder. Pressing another button, the magus activated the intercom. A crackling, metallic voice answered her summons.
"What are your commands?"
Konnie replied as she slipped the message cylinder in the mail chute.
"Please advise the Archenhiem Imperial Spaceport and the oceanic docks to prepare for the arrival of our guests. Also, alert the perimeter defense fortresses to stand down all weapons batteries. We certainly wouldn't want to shoot down the visitors."

The elf walked into the room and stopped before Sigrun, bowing respectfully, before straightening and handing Sigrun the paper in hand. Sigrun took the letter in hand and read the words carefully. He smiled slightly, before looking up to the elf.

"Arrange a InterTarl transport. Retrieve Sasha, tell her get in the transport. I will be with her shortly."

The elf bowed respetfully and departed the simple yet elegant elven palace that sat on the River Aria. He departed the great hall and made his way to his room. Minutes later, he was finished, and heading toward the main entrance, where the transport would be waiting. As soon as he arrived there, it arrived on time. He climbed inside.

"Greetings Sigrun. What's going on, if I may ask?"

"We're heading to an international forum. It appears that there are some who wish to know what vampirism is all about. You are to demonstrate as necessary, and contribute information as needed."

The council leader of the Underworld Cities nodded in understanding, sitting back to rest in the comfort of the IT transport, which had been secured completely to protect her, and other moonwalkers in the light of day. Only arcane flames lit the interior of the transport, as well as small electrical lighting installed. Sigrun tossed a small file next to Sasha, "Read up on this. Intel on Akaton from my last visit."

She picked it up and flipped it open and began to read.

Lauralin had agreed to go with Ferranifer. It wasn't difficult once Ferranifer mentioned that Laura would get a break from the responsibilities of ruling the nation for a little while. Michael and Eve agreed to take them and lifted for Dragonsreach almost immediatly. Once they reached the capital Lauralin and Ferranifer boarded and they lifted, setting off for Akaton. Eve set the coordinates and flew through space at a pace faster than one would expect from the older styled looking ship.

The Ruskkie Empire will be sending our infamous explorer and journalist, Professor George Whittleton to this conference.

Vampires have featured alot in the history of our Empire, such as the Vampire Wars of the late 1700s and the Great Vampire Purge of 1812 which also lead to the Great Fire of Valhalla of 1812 (the purge took place here).

We have some information on Vampires which include files and records which had escaped the Valhalla fire. Sadly these form a small part of the once extensive knowleadge we once had on Vampires, its clear that nobody remembered to remove these from the Valhalla University before the purge.

Our man will be arrving with any information which the Serlingrad Imperial College has managed to put together, hopefully in a few days time.

Regent Edmund Vermillion.

----------------------------------------------
TO:Konnie Hariku, High Magus of the Society for the Study of Supernatural Beings
FROM Indigo Blue, Lord of the Blood Dynasty
SUBJECT: Re:
----------------------------------------------

And you think that by hosting an international convention on 'Vampirism', full of wannabee know-it-all's would help you gain much more of an understanding of this superior race? Truly, you mortal beings are at the hand of my pity. Why should one not come to the full and knowlegable source of such a researchable interest? I would come myself, but then I wouldnt like to be studied like an animal...

Yours In Excellence,

Indigo Blue
Lord of the Blood Dynasty

Yes, the message was rather fine for sending. And being translated into the destination's own language by a single voiced command, the letter was sent via the regular service of pigeons.

Paige St John stepped off the complementary ride, and looked around her. As she made her way in the direction specified towards the Archenhiem facility. So wrapped up in her own thoughts, she barely even noticed the scenery around her, as she walked along. Open in her hand, she held a report detailing her latest updates, which she read as she walked along.

When she finally reached her destination, the length of the journey or the time take unbeknownst to her, she slipped her papers into her briefcase, and entered her building. Now her eyes flicked around her surroundings, looking to see who else had been attracted by this opportunity. She smiled to herself as she wondered how many actually vampires would come here to help break the myths and legends that surrounded their kind. If she was one herself, she would not have risked it, but then she had always suffered from a mild case of paranoia.

She stood, simply looking and watching as people entered the building, before making her way inside, to where the delegates were to meet.

Todd adjusted his glasses as he followed his boss across the terminal of the Golden Simatar International Airport.

"Sir, I really got to protest."

"Why? You will do a great service to this nation."

The two argued as they headed outside to a strange looking aircraft. Todd could only guess that this was his transportation to the vampire conference. His luggage was taken by a woman flight attendent and he sat down in a soft leather seat.

"Boss..."

"Todd, you like horror films right?"

"Yes but I'm more into zombies."

"Close enough, have a safe trip."

Rapp left the Akaton sky crusier as it shut it's outside door and began to lift off. Todd sat in his seat for a few minutes before closing his eyes and falling asleep.

Though the small ship had been docked in the Archenhiem Imperial Spaceport for almost 24 hours, no one had yet disembarked from it. Steele preferred it this way, able to observe as others arrived to the conference. His crew were diligent in their information gathering, and soon enough they were ready to upload full biographies of the other attendees, directly to Steeles AI. The big man was in his private quarters, preparing his personal kit. The communicator crackled, and Tyro's voice came through, the excitement in it clearly apparant.

"Sir, I'm loaded and ready to hit the conference. I could go on ahead if you..."

Steele smiled to himself. This was the other man's first mission, and first time off-planet. He could imagine the thrill he must be feeling. Steele replied, cutting in before Tyro could continue.

"Alright, Specialist...howzabout you get on the ground and make sure our sleeping quarters are in order? I'll join you later."

"Sir...YES, SIR!! On my way..." Tyro quickly cut communications, then was gone.

Steele looked a the small, silver case on the bed. In it were the keys to what had become a very important quest for him, and the main reason for attending this conference. Carefully preserved skin and DNA samples, flash-frozen blood, and a long, broken fang were just some of the items in the case. He was not interested in learning more about vampires and in fact, felt he knew too much already.

No, Steele's purpose here was to try and discover if it was possible to reverse the effects of vampirism. If there was a way to "cure" this affliction, he would find it.

His soul depended on it, as did his heart.

<<OOC: Gone for a week>>

For those who had taken the sky cruiser, they would have found it to be quite large by aircraft standards, roughly one hundred meters in length. Rather than wings, turbine pods and gravitic engines kept it aloft. Like most passenger sky cruisers, it was a converted military design, a fact made obvious by the heavily armored hull. While the outside of the vessel was composed of unadorned flat gray plating, the inside was far different. The spacious compartments which would have once contained gun decks had been converted into luxurious private cabins, leaving little trace of the ship's military origins.

While at takeoff, sky cruisers tend to move at a relatively slow pace, once clear of populated areas, they move into the upper atmosphere and accelerate dramatically. Due to the large size of a cruiser, atmospheric phenomena have little impact on the vessel, giving passengers a quiet, turbulence free trip to Archenhiem Imperial Spaceport, a trip of no more than eight hours from any point on Earth.

Archenhiem itself is a massive city sprawling across the area between Akaton's southern coastline and the burning ash wastes to the north. Over two hundred million people call the city home, inhabiting massive spires that reach two kilometers into the smog choked clouds of Akaton's sky. Much of the architecture resembles the cathedrals of ages past, with dark stone buildings accented with gothic arches and elaborate columns. Above the clouds, thousands of aircraft ranging from single passenger jets to thousand-meter bulk cargo carriers fill the shipping lanes linking Archenhiem to the rest of the Imperium. Filtered through layers of dark cloud, the sun does little to light this city. At street level, or rather, the top street level, some light is still visible, with the occasional sunbeam penetrating the otherwise eternal twilight. Below this, there are dozens of inhabited levels, alternating between subterranean highways and living spaces. These are places that have never seen the sun, with light and air provided by great machines constructed centuries ago, during the Great Development.

The spaceport itself is located in the northern outskirts of the city, safely away from the dense urban city center. Unlike most cities, Archenhiem appears to lack a gradual transition into suburbs. Instead, the gothic spires of the city terminate abruptly some miles from the port itself. The actual outskirts are simply extensions of the underground portion of the city, leaving a wide open are for ships to maneuver around the spaceport. The primary structure is a massive cylindrical tower with rings of docking ports at regular intervals. Below this, cement runways radiate outwards from boarding terminals, stretching out to meet the scorching expanse of the desert beyond. Within, a group of Ministry employees await to escort the various delegates to the conference. Transportation from the spaceport takes the form of a number of Ministry hover-cars, with windows blacked out as a consideration to the vampires in attendance. The ride from the spaceport is remarkably short, on account of there being very little ground traffic on the surface streets.

And so it was that the guests would reach their destination, the Ministry's Archenhiem facility. At first glance it was a rather nondescript tower, lacking any ornamentation or even windows. The vehicles stop immediately in front of the structure, leaving their passengers standing before the entrance, a set of brass double doors. Engraved on each door is the pentagram and sword symbol of the Ministry of the Occult. There are no guards in the area, or for that matter anyone else. It is a structure, that while not overtly hostile, is meant not to be inviting to those not welcome. Stepping through the doors, one would find lobby to be of medium size, with polished black and white marble floors and spotless gray walls. To the right, there is an empty receptionist's desk, the same color as the walls. Aside from dim lights and air conditioning vents, there are only two other things visible within the room, one being an elevator with brass doors, and, of course, Magus Konnie Hariku.

The vessel dove through the atmosphere to the appointed spaceport with a grace that seemed practically impossible. Scans of the ship were odd as it would show that the ship itself seemed to be alive. Once it landed three people exited. The first was a bald man just over average height with a strong build. He wore a uniform with a symbol that showed a palace gripped protectively by a hand and carried a single PPG as a sidearm with a few extra power caps. Once he reached the bottom of the ramp he scanned the surrounding area quickly.

The next two to come down were a woman of average height and light reddish brown hair. She appeared human with hazel eyes and pale skin. She wore a green satin gown and walked with a dignified air. The other woman had flame red hair that cascaded down her back, ending only an inch from the ground. She had bright emerald green eyes and her skin, too, was pale. She wore a light blue tunic and soft leather pants and boots. Across her back she wore a sword in a red dragonscale scabbard with 'Silverlief' etched along the length of the scabbard in silver, the hilt protruding up past her left shoulder. She appeared to be elven with small pointed ears and uplifting brows. She walked with the light, graceful padding of a longtime veteran of infiltration.

After the three stepped from the ramp the ship, itself shimmered and seem to break apart into many small fireflies of light and then reassembled into the form a lovely young woman in a short skirt and tight, low plunging blouse. The woman stepped forward and took the man's arm, smiling at him.

As they approach the hover-car the flame haired woman stops short of entering it and looks it over.

"What happened to the wheels?" she asks as she looks under the vehicle.

"What?" the man asks.

"The wheels", she says as she stand up again, "I don't sense any magic."

"It's a hover car", the man responds as the elegantly dressed woman steps into the vehicle followed by the short skirted woman, "I'll explain on the way."

The woman nods and gets in, followed by the man.

The three made thier way into the assigned building, nodding politely to Paige St. John as they did so. Stepping through the doors, they observe a lobby of medium size, with polished black and white marble floors and spotless gray walls. The empty receptionist's desk, the same color as the walls, seems odd until they note the person near the doors. The four make thier way toward the one in the room as the flame haired woman's sorcerous power tingle, knowing that this is a user of the art.

Konnie Hariku smiled as the first few people stepped into the lobby. Right on time, she thought, stepping forward to greet them.

Konnie was somewhat asian in appearance, insomuch as her skin color matched that description. Still, she was certainly not human, with eyes so blue they almost glowed and the sort of elegantly pointed ears that were the identifying feature of the elvin races. Her pure black hair was smooth and straight, falling about halfway down her back. Konnie's shirt was close fitting and sleeveless, bright crimson with gold trim and a mandarin style collar. Her pants were loose black satin. She wore elbow length gloves of the same material, but with an etched gold pattern of a coiled serpent upon them.

As Paige St John was the first to arrive, it was to her that Konnie first walked. The magus smiled, extending a gloved hand to St John. Her voice, while perfectly understandable had a distinct elvish accent.
"Welcome, and thank you for finding the time to come. I am Magus Konnie Hariku, hostess, so to speak, of this study."

Though Konnie spoke quickly and naturally, her mind was, quite literally, elsewhere. Astral projection had always been one of her greatest talents, so while her body was busy with the formalities of greetings and introductions, her spirit moved about the lobby, allowing her to carefully study her guests without being seen. Of particular interest to her was the elvin woman who had just entered. It was not difficult to sense the presence of one skilled in the arts arcane, particularly one so near. As Konnie's spirit studied the woman, she noticed the word "Silverlief" on the sword's scabbard. The name seemed familiar to her, taking but a moment for her to recognize it as the name of a Queen.

As Konnie's body concluded its greeting of Paige St John, her spirit re-inhabited it, turning and bowing to the Queen.
"And welcome to you as well, your majesty. It is an honor to have you in attendance."

Close up a light blue sash could be seen over the light blue tunic. On the shoulder was an emblam of a silver oakleaf inside of which was a fireball and seeming to punch through that was a closed fist. Under the emblam was one word, 'Defenders'.

Lauralin curtseyed gracefully and smiled.

"Thank you, it is an honor to be here. I particular interest in vampiric nature." She pointed toward the door, "What happened to your nation? Almost nothing remains of your natural world."

The woman in the gown widened her eyes and leaned in to the Queen's ear, 'That might be a delicate subject', she whispered.

Looking uncomfortable Lauralin looked at Konnie, "If it is not to painful of a question, of course. If it is then I beg forgiveness."

Todd walked outside of the spaceport, his eyes wide as he looked at the scene around him. It bore no resemblance to his home. He had not been able to change to more suitable clothes for the conference. He was still wearing hiking boots, khaki pants, a red plaid t-shirt, and a brown leather jacket.

He spotted one of the cars he was suppose to take. Slinging his briefcase strap over his shoulder, and walked towards it. He gawked as he got closer he saw it was hovering. The driver looked at him.

"Something wrong sir?"

Todd looked at him, the driver could tell the man was already having visual overload. "Nope, lets get going."

Todd climbed in, thrilled he was probably one of his first country men to ride in a hover car. He ran a comb through his brown hair, making sure it was straight, and cleaned his glasses on the way over.

Todd climbed out of the car and entered the building. He looked around, not sure of where to go. He saw a small group of people conversing, so he decided to head over and see if he can find Konnie Hariku.

Todd turned and walked towards the group.

George Whittleton was barely holding down the contents of his stomach as the small shuttle rocketed its way down from orbit. He was pretty sure that it had more to do with the 'food' he had to eat for the past few weeks on the Aether Frighter which brought him here. On the other hand, the pilot seemed fine, even had a grin on his face.

The bastard!

He suddenly felt himself being pulled upwards, with the seat's starps cutting painfully into his shoulders. The shuttle must be slowing down for landing he thought...

(Looking uncomfortable Lauralin looked at Konnie, "If it is not to painful of a question, of course. If it is then I beg forgiveness.")

Konnie smiled reassuringly,
"Don't worry, your majesty, I grew up in this mess. Akaton has never been the most hospitable of places; much of the desert is naturally occurring. Combine a desert with a few millennia of completely unregulated industry, and this is what you get. When the Emperor came to power, he centralized everything into the four cities, leaving most of the land as an uninhabited wasteland. Still, the general populous, myself included, takes pride in our cities. I hope that helps satisfy your curiosity."

Konnie looked towards the door as Todd walked through the door. As the magus finished explaining to Luaralin, she turned to the new arrival, observing him as he approached. Human, she thought, Obviously confused. Probably from a less technological society. Putting these thoughts aside, she smiled in a welcoming manner.
"Hello, I am Konnie Hariku. I trust you are here for the vampire conference?"

Todd gave Konnie a short, polite bow. He noted the others who were with her, they were observing him, probably making assumptions about him by the way he acted. Probably think I'm a backwoods yokel. Todd nodded to Konnie's question.

"I'm Todd Harte ma'am. I am here for the vampire conference....kinda forced by my boss because I am the only horror fan in the department."

sitting in an isolated cornrer a youthful obviously overly religious zealous man wearing a crucifix around his neck, he gets up obviously overhearing the conversation introduces himslef as Vladimir from the Holy Empire of Youl. He adresses that the Holy Empire of Youl is on a campaign versus the occult in South Pacific, the holy empire of Youl is willing to fight a long and bloody campaign against the occult he finishes with.

Lauralin looked at Todd, "If I might interrupt, you equate vampires with terror, yet your a .... fan .... of it?"

Todd looked back at Lauralin.

"Well, in the Golden Simatar...we don't have any vampires, I am talking about movies. I really wouldn't know what to say or do if I meet a vampire, guess some can be nice..some can be mean. I'm more of a Romero and zombie fan."

He saw the blank look on Lauralin's face.

"George A. Romero...the holy triology....Night, Dawn, and Day, the three movies that have set in concrete the foundation for the zombie films. He is wrapping up shooting of Land of the Dead last I heard. I have practically every zombie movie made, VHS...DVD...all editions."

Todd stopped when he noticed he had gone on a tangent, he was full of horror film information.

"I do have a bunch of vampire DVDs...but....I really wouldn't know what to do if I met one. As I said before, some might be nice and you could be friends with them...and some you just turn and run in the opposite direction."

Laura had no idea what he was talking about. She wracked her brain for the term 'movies', her eyes lifting slightly and moving back and forth as though reading from a book. She stopped suddenly, "Ah yes, movie, A sequence of photographs projected onto a screen with sufficient rapidity as to create the illusion of motion and continuity.

Photogragh, An image recorded by a camera and reproduced on a photosensitive surface.

Camera, An apparatus for taking photographs, generally consisting of a lightproof enclosure having an aperture with a shuttered lens through which the image of an object is focused and recorded on a photosensitive film or plate.

Film, A thin skin or membrane.

Tell me, what type of skin is used for this?"

(OOC: I'm going to assume it's nighttime)

The craft had descended from high orbit, and had landed at the nearest airport of Akaton. Its engines whined to a silence as the doors unlocked. Yet they remained closed.

"Sir, we have arrived." declared the driver over small speakers embedded into the ceiling of the craft. Sigrun pushed a button and replied, "Thank you."

The doors slid open with a near silent hiss and Sigrun stepped out, glanced around and noticed the area mostly bare of any sentient beings. Not that it mattered. He turned and held his hand out for Sasha, who took it and emerged. He looked at her, taking note of her eternal youth of straight brown hair that framed an equisitely beautiful face with green eyes. Her figure was slender, and nearly perfect in its proportions. She wore a dress, fit for the occassion.

Sigrun himself wore an elegant dress of elven design, soft green fabric that flowed smoothly around his lean muscled form. He gave an ambience of wisdom, of experience having shaped his very life. It had done just that.

The transport craft revved its engines to life and soon sped off, toward one of the storage hangars that lay at the far end of the airfield.

Walking side by side, the two headed toward the airport, toward the VIP entrance...

("I'm Todd Harte ma'am. I am here for the vampire conference....kinda forced by my boss because I am the only horror fan in the department.")

Konnie's smile turned to an ever so slightly wicked grin, glancing over to the guests from DragonsReach, then back to Todd.
"I see. Well, I can guarantee you that before you leave you will have met a vampire."

The magus said no more to the man, content to simply stand back and watch his attempt to explain horror movies. It was then that she noticed Vladimir, who apparently had slipped in unnoticed. As he spoke, Konnie's expression became less smiley and more wicked. She spoke to him in barely more than a whisper.
"So you say that you are fighting the occult, right? Are you aware that you happen to be standing inside a building controlled by the Ministry of the Occult, and that I myself am a magus of the dark arts? Now, unless you desire for me to send your soul to god a few years early, I advise you not to remain here."
_________________________________________________________________

Elsewhere, at the spaceport, Sigrun and Sasha are met by a representative of the Ministry of the Occult, a tall human male wearing a black business suit and dark glasses. He bows to Sigrun before speaking.
"Welcome to Akaton, sir. If you would please follow me, transportation is waiting."

The man led them to where the last few hover cars were waiting. Opening the door for them, he bowed once again before leaving.
"The ride should be no more than ten minutes by hover car. Enjoy your stay in Akaton."

As Konnie spoke she gained the attention of Michael and Ferranifer who moved to either side of her and eyed the man closely. Ferranifer, a necromancer of no small power, in fact one of the few survivors of the wizard wars, rather hoped the man would do something stupid. Michael simply stood with his hand on his PPG, waiting to see if he would have to draw. Eve stood behind the three, calculating distances and reactions times in a way no human could.

Todd looked at Konnie just before she left to go speak to the new arrival.

"Well..okay. Nice meeting you Ms. Hariku."

Todd turned back to Laura, he thought about how to quickly explain movies to her.

"Well, it is not really skin I guess...the old material was kind of like the same stuff you use in a regular camera, but of course modified for the movie camera. The name escapes me at the moment. Now everything has gone digital, thus allowing for a better film quaility and you can more easily edit and style the film, such as editing the contrasts and colors to make them more dull. Also, VHS tapes...which are bascially big cassette tapes have slowly given way to DVDs...which are speical CDs that can hold much more information and allow you to view a movie with much more clarity."

He smiled at her.

"Does that help...or should I show you some examples?"

"Sir? I think it's time you made an appearance...the other guests are arriving."

Tyro looked over at his boss, Darius Steele, who seemed to be lost in his own thoughts. The young man vaguely knew that Steele was hesitant to leave, and with good reason. First. the full extent of his vampiric knowledge came only from the dozens he had killed in his earlier life as a bounty hunter. That, and his stormy relationship with that Queen from Dragonsreach. How the big man was able to love a creature that he had spent so many years eliminating, Tyro would never know. Nonetheless, they were here for a reason, and Tyro's job was to make sure it happened.

"Sir...sir, we need to..."

"I know, boy...back off." replied Steele, his voice harsher than necessary. He looked at the young man, then softened his tone.

"Meet me at the ramp...let's get this over."

Less than fifteen minutes later, Darius Steele stepped into the main hall where the attendee's were gathering. He looked around, recording the faces and matching them up to his internal AI. He scanned nonchalantly, until his eyes came to a stop on her.

Laura.

Laura held up a hand towards Todd, "I am afraid I am lost. You see my nation had and still has very little in the way of technology. We are working on it, though...." she stopped as the President of Gawdly entered the chamber and looked over at him.

'It never rains but pours', Ferranifer muttered.

"SILENCE!" Laura said, rounding on her viscously, then, embarrassed dropped her eyes and glanced around the room. "I am sorry, Ferranifer", she said then, placing a hand on her arm, "forgive me."

"Of course", she replied.

Michael took the initiative and stepped forward. "Darius", the big security chief said to him, holding his hand out to the other big security man, "it's good to see you."

Eve followed up behind Michael, "Hello President Steele, it's me, Eve", she said smiling.

The shuttle 'landed', well not so much landed as dropping straight down from a few feet with a crash and a bump.

George Whittleton staggered out after a while carrying his luggage, however his prime was well past him. In his early years he had travelled deep into the insect ridden jungles of Garrack, braved the red deserts of Chrimera and fought gunfights deep in the tunnels and caverns of the Dragonspine Mountians all for the Ruskkie Empire.

After his legs stopped wibbling and he stopped feeling dizzy, he set out in search of a taxi or some form of transport to get to the conference.

Kaede Dorgenois stepped out of the hover car which had delivered her to the conferance facility. She nooded politely to the driver as she turned to survey her surroundings. These buildings are splendid she mused Imagine how beautiful this place would be if the environment weren't so... lacking. Perhaps I'll find time to make a few sketches while I am here.

The short, lithe figure standing outside the building was dressed in black trousers and a long black duster style tunic. The cut of her clothing was simple and the black silk was completely unadorned, but the tailoring was perfectly fit to her slender, toned body. Long wavy hair of the darkest auburn hung freely and framed a heart shaped face, with smooth slightly dusk colored skin. The only decoration that could be seen on the woman was a delicate, garnet incrusted ring that pierced the center of her lower lip.

She walked into the building, the easy grace of her movements contrasting sharply with the utter stillness with which she had held herself while drinking in her surroundings.

Glancing at the assembled crowd she recognized Konnie Hikaru from the dossier she had studied in preparation for this conference. Inclining her head in the direction of the woman she said "Again, I thank you for your invitation. I am honored to be here."

Patricia entered alone and scarcely announced, having travelled by private means. She was not an attractive woman. That was an understatement, she was a hideous woman, even for a Redcap. Her skin was a rought and mottled grey. Her teeth were yellow, rough, and dull. Her muscled were grotesquely bulging. Her very presence seemed to create an aura of fear, menace, and violence. Over her bulky form, she wore a weathered leather coat, filthy jeans with a hole in them, and a stained white t-shirt. She simply growled in greeting.

Patricia was the leader of a Danaan political party, the Radical Party. While on the far-left, the Radicals remained one of the nine mainstream parties in the Resurgent Dream and Patricia was one of the most powerful women in that nation. Akaton was, without the slightest doubt, the Resurgent Dream's closest ally. Still, she had never been here before. Perhaps it showed her concern for her nation's foreign policy. Perhaps she just didn't like to travel. In any event, the rather unsavory seeming woman looked around, in silence for now.

When Steele entered, Konnie turned her attention away from Vladimir. Resisting the urge to incinerate the foolish zealot on the spot, she reminded herself that there were more important things to be dealt with. As she walked towards Steele, Konnie overheard the name "Ferranifer". Of course, she had not known the face that went with that name, but the name itself was familiar. As ethics were not considered to be particularly important within Konnie's particular branch of the Ministry, Ferranifer's works were much admired.

The magus went over this in her mind as she greeted Steele, not noticing that his gaze was fixed upon Laura.
"Hello and welcome to Akaton. I am your hostess Konnie Hariku. The conference on vampirism should be starting shortly."
While she spoke, one eye remained fixed on the man she was speaking with, while the other looked about, counting the number of atendees already present. Though she was eager to get the conference started, she came up a few short of the number that were supposed to be coming.

Elsewhere, at the port, George Whittleton of Ruskkia was being welcomed in much the same way as Sigrun had a few minutes earlier. He was directed by another Ministry employee towards an almost identical black hovercar and sent on his way.

No sooner had Konnie finished welcoming Steele when, looking up, she noticed two more arrivals. The one seemed perfectly normal, though the unusual appearance and demeanor of the other drew her attention away from Kaede Dorgenois. It took a moment for the magus to identify Patricia as one of less desirable sorts of fae, then obviously as the delegate from the Resurgent Dream. However, the manner of Patricia's greeting was more than enough to convince Konnie that the other arrival was a better choice for conversation. So, the magus greeted Kaede just as she had greeted the others. Updating her mental guest list, she found only two delegates to still be missing.

The hovercraft glided to a halt and the door was opened, allowing the travelers inside to exit. Once again, Sigrun was the first to step out, and once again, he held his hand out for the female also departing the hovercraft, as was customary of respect.

She smiled slightly, a brief flash of fangs seen behind her lips before they disappeared once more. Sigrun smiled slightly in response, but said nothing as he turned and began the walk toward the building they had been deposited in front of. He spoke nothing as he and Sasha entered silently, quietly observing the others present. Sigrun's eyes flicked from figure to figure, and halted for a few more seconds upon those he had met in the past. Especially Lauralin.

Perhaps we can start anew this time around... he thought to himself, as he remembered the circumstances of their last meeting. It hadn't been peaceful, and rather, it had been a meeting he had interrupted, for the sake of his friend, Kain Shentavo. Nevertheless, Kain was not here, and so, he hoped to better the relations between himself and Lauralin.

Any that turned to view the two newcomers were captured by the elegant stride, yet soothing to the soul to see an elf so complacent, so obviously learned of the ways of the world. The vampiress beside him, Sasha, also walked with an air of dignity, something she had learned since becoming head of the Underworld Cities council. She also looked around, briefly studying each person that was scattered about the room. As was normal for vampires, she had immediately noticed the presence of Lauralin, another vampiress. She hoped for the sake of this occassion that their domains would not be challenged, that their skills be put to ill use.

Senseing Sasha Ferrannifer turned to look upon this new vampiress. This was not her domain, nor Lauralin's to whom she had given the dark gift. The woman seemed to understand this and so Ferrannifer simply nodded. Neither she nor Lauralin allowed thier eye-teeth to slip from thier gum sheaths, not until they were sure this what it was supposed to be.

Lauralin didn't seem to notice the new arrival, her eyes locked on Steele as Michael and Eve approached him.

'Greetings, dark sister', Ferrannifer said in Sasha's mind, 'may the blood here be shared.' It was an ancient way among the vampires to show other of thier kind that there was no intent to have a domain feud.

Kaede let the energies of the room flow toward ward her rather than reaching out and sensing for them - to do otherwise might be considered impolite. She sensed certain tensions in the air, practically none of them having to do with the rather unconventional diplomat who had entered these chambers very shortly after she had - but no hostilities. Good. Hmm, there is much here to be learned, even outstide the conference room she thought.

Kaede's expression retained its perfectly detached politeness as Konnie approached. "It seems you have managed to assemble quite a diverse gathering. Hopefully this will bode well for the inquiries."

Out of everyone in the room, Todd was the most oblivous to the fact that there were several vampires in the room. There were no vampires in the Golden Simatar, he had no idea how to tell if a person was a vampire. He briefly considered pulling out his movie laptop and watching Zombi 2 but decided not to.

Instead, Todd walked over to the empty receptionist desk, sat on it and pulled a book out of his suitcase. History of the Simatarian Ranger Regiment. Todd had been reading the book for the past several months, in his line of work he barely got much time to read anything that didn't concern the effects of viruses on the human body.

Todd looked up as Sasha and Sigrun walked into the room, he guessed that there were probably only a few more people to come before the conference got started.

He opened his book and began to read.

Greetings. A tempting occassion, is it not? Sasha replied telepathically while following Sigrun and gazing with steeled eyes into each stranger's own. Often they looked away, unable to deal with her strong persona.

The two walked further into the room, heading toward none in particular. Sigrun accepted a glass of wine from a servant who had appeared nearby carrying drinks upon a platter. Sasha declined respectfully, choosing to continue her conversation with the other vampiress, I am Sasha O'Conner. Council-leader of the Underworld Cities of Tarlachia. Yourself?

Sasha O'Conner (http://www.facade.com/celebrity/photo/Jennifer_Garner.jpg)

"Gassington, you old war-dog...good to see you." Steele said with a smile, taking the soldiers strong hand in his own. While there was no love lost amongst these two, they recognized and respected each other for what they were: warriors who had seen too much. At the sound of her voice, Steele turned to Eve.

"Darlin', we're almost family. Call me Darius. May I also remark that you are more beautiful than the last time I saw you." Steele was referencing their adventure on Dragonsreach, when Eve was still just an old, battered warship. Then he matched her face to the image of a naked woman running into the castle just as he was leaving, and realized it was her. Steele blushed slightly.

After introducing Tyro to Michael and Eve, Steele turned back to regard Lauralin. Their eyes locked, and he felt the warm tingle of their psi-link come to life. He sent her a message, a string of truth from his soul.

"Hello, my heart. I've missed you."

Just then, Konnie approached, greeting him effusively.

"The honor is mine, m'Lady...on behalf of my people, I thank-you for inviting us, and hope that this meeting will shed some light on the subject of vampires."

He saw that she was listening, but still observing the other arrivals. He bowed again, excusing himself from her. Seeing that Tyro was awestruck by the grandeur of the room and the large and varied group of humanoids, Steele smiled and pushed him towards the buffet table.

"Go find me something to drink, son...and don't come back too quick." Steele turned, and walked towards Laura, her vision filling him with energy and a dull, throbbing pain. Her smile for him was pure, honest and welcoming. He returned it, and came to stop in front of her. Bowing slightly, he took her hand, her cold hand, and brought it to his lips. He let it linger there, wishing it would never end. Straightening, he looked down into her eyes and spoke, humor playing at the edge of his voice.

"What's a pretty girl like you doing in a place like this?"

Greetings. A tempting occassion, is it not? Sasha replied telepathically while following Sigrun and gazing with steeled eyes into each stranger's own. Often they looked away, unable to deal with her strong persona.

The two walked further into the room, heading toward none in particular. Sigrun accepted a glass of wine from a servant who had appeared nearby carrying drinks upon a platter. Sasha declined respectfully, choosing to continue her conversation with the other vampiress, I am Sasha O'Conner. Council-leader of the Underworld Cities of Tarlachia. Yourself?

'Ferrannifer Melbourne, advisor to the queen of Dragonsreach. Formerly the mistress of the school of Necromancy, and one of the few survivors of the wizard wars of Dragonsreach. It's an honor to meet you.' As Ferrannifer carried on her mental conversation she scanned the crowd, refusing any drinks herself.

"Gassington, you old war-dog...good to see you." Steele said with a smile, taking the soldiers strong hand in his own. While there was no love lost amongst these two, they recognized and respected each other for what they were: warriors who had seen too much. At the sound of her voice, Steele turned to Eve.

"Darlin', we're almost family. Call me Darius. May I also remark that you are more beautiful than the last time I saw you." Steele was referencing their adventure on Dragonsreach, when Eve was still just an old, battered warship. Then he matched her face to the image of a naked woman running into the castle just as he was leaving, and realized it was her. Steele blushed slightly.

After introducing Tyro to Michael and Eve, Steele turned back to regard Lauralin. Their eyes locked, and he felt the warm tingle of their psi-link come to life. He sent her a message, a string of truth from his soul.

"Hello, my heart. I've missed you."

Just then, Konnie approached, greeting him effusively.

"The honor is mine, m'Lady...on behalf of my people, I thank-you for inviting us, and hope that this meeting will shed some light on the subject of vampires."

He saw that she was listening, but still observing the other arrivals. He bowed again, excusing himself from her. Seeing that Tyro was awestruck by the grandeur of the room and the large and varied group of humanoids, Steele smiled and pushed him towards the buffet table.

"Go find me something to drink, son...and don't come back too quick." Steele turned, and walked towards Laura, her vision filling him with energy and a dull, throbbing pain. Her smile for him was pure, honest and welcoming. He returned it, and came to stop in front of her. Bowing slightly, he took her hand, her cold hand, and brought it to his lips. He let it linger there, wishing it would never end. Straightening, he looked down into her eyes and spoke, humor playing at the edge of his voice.

"What's a pretty girl like you doing in a place like this?"

Michael and Eve greeted Tyro and moved toward the table with him. Though stepping away the security chief never let the queen out of his sight, though he didn't make it obvious that he was watching her either.

Lauralin smiled at the mental message from Darius and returned it, 'I have missed you as well. I am glad to see you are doing alright.'

She chuckled at his jest, "Well I have come for the conference of course. I have a certain .... fascination .... for vampires." she said grinning.

Paige watched as the other delegates began to enter, after a while she could not help noticing that a few of them seemed to be already familiar with each other. She also could not help wondering if she would be able to bring anything to this meeting. Still, if she managed to gain some knowledge out of it, it would not be a total loss. Moving around the room, she glanced at her fellow companions, weighing them up silently.

The place certainly seemed to be filling up, and Paige could not help but feel confident that this would turn out to be very interesting. If you could not get a vampire under the microscope, talking to people with first hand knowledge would be the next best thing. As a waiter walked passed, she grabbed a glass and took a slow sip.

Todd had since put his book down and was now wandering through the crowds. He got a glass of wine from a waiter and took a sip. He smiled. Very good stuff. Need to pick up a bottle for my sister. He looked around, eyeing everyone else in the room, doing his best to size them up.

He spotted Lauralin talking to someone and several of the new arrivals. He felt like an outsider. He was not wearing anything that showed he was a scientist and everyone already seemed to know each other. Todd shrugged and went over to a table. He sat down and pulled out his working laptop from his suitcase, he booted it up, making sure all the programs were fuctioning before turning it off and slipping it back into his suitcase.

Todd took another sip of wine, pulled his book out again and started to read.

Lauralin got two empty glasses and removed a smokey green colored bottle from her pack. She handed the glasses to Ferrannifer and filled them with a thick red liquid, then stoppered the bottle, put it back, and took one of the two glasses, leaving the other for Ferrannifer, and began sipping it slowly.

Todd had been reading off and on for the past few minutes. He picked up his wine glass and once again wandered through the crowd. He moved to avoid a waitier and nearly crashed into Ferrannifer. He quickly manuvered around her, just barely avoiding an accident.

"Jeez, I am so sorry ma'am."

He relaxed on the inside when he didn't see any stains on her clothing from his drink or hers. He had just been able to catch a whiff of what she had in her glass.

"What are you drinking? It smells pretty good."

Lauralin turned to look at Todd as he manuevered out of the accident. "We're drinking blood", she replied, "you see, not all vampires are evil and as to what to say to one, well, we can have a conversation just like anyone else." She sipped the blood from the wine glass, still not allowing her fangs to slip from the sheaths of the gums.

Lauralin quickly sensed Todd's heart skip a beat when she said they were drinking blood. The human was frozen for only a few seconds before he shrugged. He smiled politely to her and held out his hand.

"I don't think I ever properly introduced myself. I'm Todd Harte....I work in a viral research facility in the Glothlin mountains. What is that you do?"

Lauralin reached out and took his warm hand in her cold one. Her grip was much firmer than, by her appearance, it should have been. "I am the Queen of Dragonsreach, I rule there. Viral research ....?"

Sasha overheard Lauralin's conversation with Todd from across the room, despite the fact that they talked between themselves somewhat in low voices. Vampirism had its benefits, for sure, but it also came with its nemesis problems.

She glanced toward the other vampiress, catching the whiff of blood in the air. Her tongue unconsciously flicked out slightly and licked her lips quickly. Her fangs remained hidden though. A hand on her arm distracted her, and she turned to see Sigrun looking at her.

"I know that look in your eyes. Control yourself..." he said quietly to her.

"I'm fine." she replied, withdrawing a flask from her small bag she carried specifically for proper events such as this. She swiped a drink from a waiter, handed it to Sigrun and he smiled, knowing what she wanted. He took it, and downed the drink and handed the crystal ball glass back to her. Moments later, rich crimson plasma floated in the ball glass and shifted as Sasha lifted it to her lips and sipped. She closed her eyes, savoring the taste of draconic blood. It was a rare commodity to sip such rich blood, and it awakened her senses beyond their normal range. Her sight grew sharper, her hearing more pronounced, her sense of smell increasing tenfold. She sighed complacently, then opened her eyes as she allowed the rich substance to flow down the back of her throat and into her stomach.

Sigrun grinned slightly and walked away, closer to Kaede. He bowed respectfully, "Greetings, I am Sigrun Greenwood, rightful ruler of Tarlachia. It seems that this occassion has caught your interest as well..."

Seeing Sigrun and Sasha arrive, Konnie smiled. She knew him, or more correctly, she knew of him. It was rare to find someone in the Ministry who didn't know the rumors of the elf who had purchased the famed Hell Gate. Being the owner of the artifact responsible for a demonic invasion attracted more than a small amount of infamy, and thus Konnie as well. She bowed to Sigrun as he entered, her respect for the elf quite sincere.
"Lord Greenwood, you honor us with your presence. Please allow me to introduce myself; I am High Magus Konnie Hariku. I apologize for the delay in commencing the conference, the Ministry is not what it once was. It should be getting under way shortly."

As she spoke, Konnie kept her mind's eye focused on the vampires. It was a relief to find that they had brought a supply of blood with them, rather than acquiring it fresh from one of the delegates, a courtesy one could not rely on from many of Akaton's vampiric residents. Satisfied that no one was in immediate peril, she re-focused her attentions on Sigrun, continuing.
"Tell me, Lord Greenwood, they say that you now hold the Hell Gate in your possession, are these just rumors or did you truly purchase this grim device?"

Sigrun turned away slightly from Kaede as Konnie addressed him. He returned the respective bow and listened to the high mage's words. Upon inquiry about the Inchion Gate, he merely smiled.

When he spoke, he spoke low. It wouldn't have done well to have the following words float to ill-intent persons that might be nearby.

"Yes. That is true. In fact, not too long ago, I encountered the spawn of hell in the Star Trials. The Star Trials were trials that tested my skill, and consisted of a variety of foes to defeat. The gate had part in my challenge as well, as the council saw that it would be a good source of both foes, as well as entertainment for the audiences. In fact...speak to me later if you wish, and I shall show you a recorded playback of the entire Trials."

Sigrun winked slightly and reassured the high mage, "Rest assurred, the Gate is sealed once more, the hellspawn returned to whence they came."

[OOC: The "Sands of Time" link (http://forums2.jolt.co.uk/showthread.php?p=8218721#post8218721), which has the Star Trials. Link goes directly to the first post of the Star Trials. The thread currently is still in the works, and the fighting hasn't yet begun just yet, but you'll be in time to see it begin, as well as the expected Inchion Gate fight noted above.]

He felt her distance, and respected it for what it meant. Steele stepped away from Lauralin, allowing her the easy way out, and knowing that the space between them was a vast and unconquerable one. The pain came again, tearing at him from within. He rapidly raised his psi-wall, cutting off their connection. He could no longer feel her inside of him, and for now, this would save him from the truth he didn't want to face. Gathering himself, Steele surveyed the room, his filters quickly identifying the other vampires in the room. Part of him wanted to lash out, to take them all down as he had done so often in the past...but this was not a hunt. Steele drifted away as Laura began speaking with a young man...a human man.

He saw Tyro at the bar with Michael and Eve, chatting animatedly. The youngster had a quality about him that drew people in, and Steele was amused to see that he even seemed to be entertaining the security chief. Steele had never seen Michael smile before, but he was pretty sure the grimace on the other man's face indicated that Tyro was working his innocent magic on even the jaded warrior. Darius lit one of his trademark cigars, and strolled around the ballroom.

He had just turned his head and looked back to grab another glimpse of Laura, failing to see the young woman in front of him. They collided, the smaller woman knocked off balance by the massive form of Steele. Mortified by his lack of attention, he reached out a hand to steady her. As he began to apologise, his AI identified her as Paige St-John, of Tartarus. His eyes identified her as a lovely woman.

Steele smiled.

The 'hovercar' or whatever it was called, arrived at the conference building after a quick and speedy trip from the space port. What struck Whittleton the most was the technology it used and how quiet it was. Back in the Ruskkie Empire most vechicals had at least four wheels, either powered by inetrnal combustion, steam or horse drawn. Even the Empire's steam powered Aether ships had the constant background humming noise and in some cases the distant clanking of some mechancial device. The same went for the Empire's airships as well.

He quickly checked that he still had his briefcase and also the so-called 'Stake Gun' warpped in cloth, to Whittleton it just appeared to be some sort of a cross between a grenade launcher and an elephant gun. He got out and walked inside.

Paige just managed to stifle a yawn, realising how little sleep she had prior to travelling. She shuffled from foot to foot, in an effort to pump some life into her tired body. Taking another sip of her drink, she just lowered it from her month, when she felt something or someone collide with her.

Managing only to keep her balance by the hand that grabbed her before she fell, she flustered herself back to her feet, feeling her cheeks redden slightly at having caused a scene. “Oh…I’m…sorry. I really didn’t see you.” She had been so distracted by her tiredness that she was not sure who has walked into who. Her hand brushed over her suit, checking to see whether her drink had spilled out of her glass.

Sure that she was still looking presentable, if a little out of sorts, she raised her eyes to her obstacle and saviour, smiling in return. “Oh, excuse my rudeness. I’m Paige St John.” She presented her hand to the man before her. “From Tartarus.” She resumed smiling, pleased to have someone to keep her mind from herself.

Lauralin turned her head from Todd and watched Darius move away. No word, not even a chuckle at her jest. She sighed heavely and at a slight nudge from Ferrannifer she returned her attention to the man before her. 'I was hoping we could at least remain friends', she sent to him, 'you KNOW neither of us would leave our people for the other.' Try as he might thier souls were entwined now and he couldn't keep her voice out of his mind.

Lauralin's cold hand sent a shiver down Todd's spine. He sipped some of his wine and nodded.

"Yup, viral research. Study of viruses and the effect on the human body. I started to develop a hypothosis on the way over that vampire blood has some kind of virus in it. Because of that, a human becomes a vampire. So...that is what I will attempt to prove while I am here."

The man stopped talking as Lauralin turned away from him. But as soon as she turned back, Todd suddenly looked over his shoulder; he looked very nervous. He smiled and returned his gaze of Lauralin.

"Sorry about that...sometimes I feel because of some of the research going on at my facility is top seceret, I'm being trailed. So...what is it like being a Queen?"

Lauralin sighed, "To be honest I preferred my adventuring days. Then I was responsible for myself or at most a half dozen others. Now I am responsible for all my people which has just recently hit over one billion souls, but I know how you feel about watching your back. In my adventuring days I made some rather powerful enemies."

She stopped and thought a moment, "I am sure that something in the blood affects the change but a virus would not account for the link to the negative material plane, which is where a vampire gains the power it possesses."

Todd thought over what Lauralin had said. He didn't know what she meant by 'adventuring days', but he guessed it wasn't hiking and rock climbing. He made a clicking sound with his tounge for several seconds before stopping.

"Sounds interesting, I really don't know much about the powers of a vampire...spare for extra strength. I was doing a research project in college and was reading an account of a monk several thousand years ago describing a strange plague that descended on the village. He described it as giving the victims 'the powers of the underworld'. Sadly, the rest of the manuscript is too badly damaged to read. Yet, it does show that a virus or plague can effect a person enough to change them...for example into a vampire. It is entirely possible it could be a virus behind the exsitance of vampires.....or something totally different."

He took a sip of wine to wet his lips.

"What is your opinion on the matter?"

"Oh strength, yes, I can see that. But ability to climb walls, turn to mist, take on animal form, superior senses, psychic talents. But I know that there is a link to the negative material plane, that is why I am here. Ferrannifer knows the necrology, but I know the link to the other plane. Not to mention that virus wouldn't explain how one could still live. Now understand that I do not know a great deal about viruses. Arleena knows alchemy, but someone had to stay and rule Dragonsreach."

Todd listened with great interest to what Lauralin was saying. He didn't think it was possible for anyone to turn into mist or animal form, but since he had only humans his whole life; it wasn't too suprising that he hadn't heard of it.

"Yes, you do bring up a good point on how can someone live for a much longer time than everyone else. I have never heard of a virus that does that. I'm sorry I forgot to ask this earlier, but what do you mean by 'negitive material plane?' I'm afraid I'm not that familiar with it."

"There are multiple planes of existance. This one is the prime material plane. The negative material is the exact opposite of our own. There is the plane of fire, for instance, as well. What I meant by live is that our bodies, by the normal standard, can't survive. Though as I said, necrology is more Ferrannifer's area expertise than my own."

Todd listened intently to what Lauralin had said. He tried to break it down and thought on it for several minutes. It made sense, each group of persons believed in different realms of life. All Todd believed in was life and death, with maybe something in between.

"While we are somewhat on the subject of death and all...are vampires actually well, for lack of a better word, dead? I have heard in the books and movies that the human dies and is brought back to life by drinking a bit of vampire blood, does that hold any truth in it?"

He took a sip of wine before adding: "I'm sorry if that sounded like a stupid question, but if you say you are a vampire in the Golden Simatar; the next thing you know you are being fitted for a straight jacket."

Lauralin chuckled, "Until I opened our borders I would have thought you jested. Now I see so many beliefs. I was created in the manner in which you speak. There are others. There are curses that could bring one back as a vampire for instance. One can be killed by a vampire and come back, at least so it is told, I have yet to know any vampire who was created in that manner and therefore doubt the veracity of that conjecture."

"It has been known to happen", Ferrannifer said, and Lauralin turned to her. "The victim must die at the hands of the vampire. Then, rarely, after about a weeks time they'll rise from the grave. I'm afraid that I've not been able to tell exactly why. But there's no truth to the fact that if your bitten you simply become one."

Lauralin nodded, "My first knight provides me the sustenance I need. She has since my becoming a vampiress and she still lives and is quite well."

(Sigrun turned away slightly from Kaede as Konnie addressed him. He returned the respective bow and listened to the high mage's words. Upon inquiry about the Inchion Gate, he merely smiled.

When he spoke, he spoke low. It wouldn't have done well to have the following words float to ill-intent persons that might be nearby.

"Yes. That is true. In fact, not too long ago, I encountered the spawn of hell in the Star Trials. The Star Trials were trials that tested my skill, and consisted of a variety of foes to defeat. The gate had part in my challenge as well, as the council saw that it would be a good source of both foes, as well as entertainment for the audiences. In fact...speak to me later if you wish, and I shall show you a recorded playback of the entire Trials."

Sigrun winked slightly and reassured the high mage, "Rest assured, the Gate is sealed once more, the hellspawn returned to whence they came.")

At Sigrun's answer, Konnie drew in closer to him. Her voice took on a low, conspiratorial tone, though she wondered whether there was any point to the attempt of secrecy given the vampires' acute hearing.

"Ah, I see. While my duties do not typically include the demonic, I would be lying to say that I have not encountered their kind. I have had the dubious honor of facing hellspawn on two occasions, though certainly nothing when compared to those who worked with the gate now in your possession."

As Whittleton stepped into the lobby, Konnie's bright eyes flickered towards the door, carefully noting his arrival. Good, she thought, everyone has arrived. In the span of a second, her gaze returned to Sigrun.

"As it happens, I do believe I will take you up on your offer. You see, as my division of the Ministry is primarily devoted to the undead, I rarely have such an opportunity to study demons. Still, it is a relief to hear that you successfully returned the unholy creatures to hell. One can never be too careful with their kind."
_________________________________________________________________

OOC: The actual conference will be starting tomorrow.

Lauralin turned her head and looked toward Konnie, "We have on in Dragonsreach who occasionally serves me. She is half demon, succubbus to be exact, and half human. Father and I have faced Orcus, demon lord of the undead and we have fought a number of other demons in our time. Perhaps I could convince Shandaril to speak with you about the abyss. She does return there from time to time."

Konnie turned on the spot, looking to Lauralin.

"That would be most excellent. I would be most grateful for a chance to speak with one who dwells beyond the mortal plain. However, I would advise against her coming to Akaton. There are some in Akaton who would not distinguish between her and the demons responsible for the invasion that claimed so many lives. Still, to meet a demon, a trip to your lands would be well justified, assuming your permission of course."

"You would be more than welcome. I would be happy to have you or any of your people to Dragonsreach. I would have to convince Shandaril but I believe I can that. She has sanctuary in my nation and I think I can talk her into speaking with you", Laura said, curtseying slightly to Konnie. She then took another drink of the blood in her glass and turned toward Michael who was approaching.

Michael wasn't approaching Laura, however, but Konnie. "Excuse me", he said, his voice gruff, "but I'm afraid I've not had time for arrangements. If this is going to last more than just one day I'll need to find and examine quarters for the Queen."

'Forgive him', Laura said in Konnies mind, 'he is my father's security chief. He's efficient, but he is blunt and probably not happy with having to accompany me as we don't exactly get along.'

Sigrun nodded slightly smiling in return.

"Then it is settled. Until then..." he replied with a bow and walked closer to another two guests were actively speaking to each other. Sigrun had been listening to that conversation from across the room, his elven hearing allowing him enhanced hearing. He flicked his eyes quickly between Lauralin and Todd as he approached.

"A virus would not be a cause of vampirism. The genetic of a virus relies on its host to remain alive. For a host to die, and then be respawned as moonwalkers, it is inconcievable from the vantage point of a virus."

Sasha appeared at Sigrun's side and nodded ever so briefly to Lauralin. To Todd, she merely looked at him, listening to his heartbeat that beat rhythmically in his rib cage. However, she had already had her fill of the draconic blood, and it would sustain her for a good time, as potent as it was. She turned to Sigrun as he continued to speak.

"Forgive me of my intrusion, but I am Sigrun Greenwood, Ruler of the United Realms of Tarlachia," he paused momentarily, looking at Lauralin, "You and I have met before, unfortunately under more hostile situations. Please know that I wish no such situation as before."

Lauralin curtseyed to Sigrun and nodded to Sasha in return. Lauralin was aware of the dominion aspect of vampires but had never felt it herself. She had always shared her nation, capital and home with Arleena and Ferrannifer. Though she was aware of the tension between them she never understood it and niether would explain it, but then she was only a fledgling, born into darkness only slightly less than a decade ago where Ferrannifer had lived for over six hundred years and Arleen over a thousand. She had never had the opportunity to be close to another vampire other than Shentavo and that time was very confusing indeed. She faced Sigrun, addressing him as she sent a mental message to Sasha.

"Greetings Lord Greenwood. As you say, we met under more hostile circumstances, though not on my part. Perhaps we might have the opportunity to speak of that situation that I might explain what had happened."

To Sasha she sent at the same time she was speaking she sent, 'I wonder if we might speak in private before the end of this forum. I have some questions that niether Arleena nor Ferrannifer will answer. It is my hope that you, not being of my nation, might enlighten me to some facts about vampiric dominion.

"It has been known to happen", Ferrannifer said, and Lauralin turned to her. "The victim must die at the hands of the vampire. Then, rarely, after about a weeks time they'll rise from the grave. I'm afraid that I've not been able to tell exactly why. But there's no truth to the fact that if your bitten you simply become one."


Kaede turned in the direction of Ferranifier. "Indeed. A few of our theoreticians and philosophers have suggested that such occurences are indicative that blood is but a focus - and thus ultimately perhaps unnecessary - used as a conduit in summoning and tapping the specific energies of the negative material plane which give rise to vampiric power. It is not exactly the sort of thing which can be tested in a lab. Still, if there were a way that the mechanism that allows such vampires to be created could be deciphered and harnessed to fuel other powers the implications would be astounding. Of course there are large factions who denounce and fear any such ideas. Afterall, blood is as much pleasure as it is power." She smiled ruefully. "Science and politics often do not get along. My life would be so much simpler if discovery could be totally divorced from policy."

Ferrannifer flashed a genuine smile at Kaede and sipped her glass of blood as she looked sidelong at Lauralin.

"My sentiments exactly. I had done much better at research before I had to give into policy and the overbearing demands of them."

She stepped over to Kaede, "I'm Ferrannifer Melbourne, advisor to the Queen, and you are?"

"Kaede Dorgenois. I'm in charge of the research division of my nations Ministry of Science and Information. Very pleased to meet you." Kaede smiled.

Lauralin curtseyed to Sigrun and nodded to Sasha in return. Lauralin was aware of the dominion aspect of vampires but had never felt it herself. She had always shared her nation, capital and home with Arleena and Ferrannifer. Though she was aware of the tension between them she never understood it and niether would explain it, but then she was only a fledgling, born into darkness only slightly less than a decade ago where Ferrannifer had lived for over six hundred years and Arleen over a thousand. She had never had the opportunity to be close to another vampire other than Shentavo and that time was very confusing indeed. She faced Sigrun, addressing him as she sent a mental message to Sasha.

"Greetings Lord Greenwood. As you say, we met under more hostile circumstances, though not on my part. Perhaps we might have the opportunity to speak of that situation that I might explain what had happened."

To Sasha she sent at the same time she was speaking she sent, 'I wonder if we might speak in private before the end of this forum. I have some questions that niether Arleena nor Ferrannifer will answer. It is my hope that you, not being of my nation, might enlighten me to some facts about vampiric dominion.


Sigrun smiled and replied courteously, "Of course. It would please me to understand that situation, to understand why things happened as they did. It has puzzled me for a while..."

Sasha on the other hand was engaged with Lauralin telepathically. She replied moments after Lauralin ceased speaking. After that meeting with Master Sigrun, meet me on the rooftop tonight, when the others have retired. We shall talk of anything you wish to know...

"Kaede Dorgenois. I'm in charge of the research division of my nations Ministry of Science and Information. Very pleased to meet you." Kaede smiled.

"The pleasure is mine as well. Science and information, hmm. Arleena is our intelligence and information gatherer, as well as our alchemist. I'm in charge of etiquitte, as they won't allow me to continue with my experiments. Well .... actually the Queen won't, Arleena couldn't care less, at least as to wether I continue or not. It's refreshing to find a like minded individual. What is your area of expertise?"

Sigrun smiled and replied courteously, "Of course. It would please me to understand that situation, to understand why things happened as they did. It has puzzled me for a while..."

"I am sure it has. Some of the details puzzled me until I got the final reports. Only the beginning remains vague. But I shall tell you what I know and what I have speculated. It is not my wish to have animosity with you. With anyone for that matter, but I know that some are just naturally hostile."

Sasha on the other hand was engaged with Lauralin telepathically. She replied moments after Lauralin ceased speaking. After that meeting with Master Sigrun, meet me on the rooftop tonight, when the others have retired. We shall talk of anything you wish to know...

'I appreciate that', she replied in Sasha's mind, 'I shall meet you there at the appointed hour.'

Sigrun nodded in understanding as he looked about the room. Changing the subject, he spoke "I think I'm going to my quarters. Perhaps you'd like to join me and discuss this further in a more comfortable setting?"

Sasha glanced at Sigrun, speaking telepathically to him, You must be tired...you *have* been awake for nearly forty eight hours...

Sigrun replied, not giving any indication to the conversation's existence, I know...but I did say I would talk to the Queen on this matter. Sometimes, sacrifices must be made. You know that.

Sasha replied agreeingly, That is true...

Lauralin nodded, "Let us find out when the conference is starting. We would not wish to miss it."

"The pleasure is mine as well. Science and information, hmm. Arleena is our intelligence and information gatherer, as well as our alchemist. I'm in charge of etiquitte, as they won't allow me to continue with my experiments. Well .... actually the Queen won't, Arleena couldn't care less, at least as to wether I continue or not. It's refreshing to find a like minded individual. What is your area of expertise?"


"Ah... the Lady Sinclair and I are at odds - at least publically- over a matter fit only for gossip. It allows for a certain leeway, since it gives her room to distance herself from any of my research that may come under unfavorable public scrutiny. This comes with certain dangers, politically speaking, but if that is the cost..." Kaede trailed off shrugging. "I study the energy patterns at crossroads - for lack of a better term - the point where the extraplanar energies intersect with this realm. For so long many considered physics and metaphysics irreconcible."

Todd listened quietly to Lauralin and Ferrannifer as they explained how a vampire came to be. He was about to say something with Sigrun and Sasha intruded. He smiled politly to Sasha, oblivous to the fact she was a vampire. As the group began to talk and others join, Todd quietly slipped away to the table where he had left his briefcase.

He sat down, put the briefcase on the floor and pulled out one of his three laptops. He opened it completely, moving the top till it lay flat next to the keyboard. Instead of having a normal screen, there was only a tiny screen on the plane and three circles arranged in a triangle.

"Time to test out blood removal."

Todd typed in several commands and the small screen lit up to show bio data on a human. He waited for several seconds, praying this time the machine would not fry. Several beams of red light came out of the circles, forming a small holographic image of a person.

Todd smiled as he pressed another command into the machine, the once bare red human soon had bright green lines representing the circulatory system inside. He smiled as his fingers played over the keyboard, watching his forumlas appear on the screen before he executed them.

Just before he pressed ENTER, the machine seized up and the image disappeared. Todd cursed under his breath, every time he had booted the machine up, it had always crashed on him.

Todd sighed, folded it up and put it back into his briefcase. He got up, took his glass and walked back to the group. He heard Lauralin talk about when the conference would start.

"I'll go ask."

Todd turned, spotted Konnie and walked over to her.

"Excuse me ma'am, but when is this conference starting?"

Todd sighed, folded it up and put it back into his briefcase. He got up, took his glass and walked back to the group. He heard Lauralin talk about when the conference would start.

"I'll go ask."

Lauralin flashed Todd a warm a pleasant smile, "Why thank you", and finished off her glass as she waited for him to find out.

Sigrun stood next to the vampiress queen and watched as Todd went off to find out when the conference would begin. In his mind however, he was engaged with Sasha.

How much will you be telling her? Sasha inquired, referring to the meeting that would take place soon.

I have nothing to hide. After all, this forum is meant for the education of individuals about the vampiric species.

You don't have to remind me. To tell you the truth, I almost wonder if this is a coy plan to exterminate those of us that might arrive.

I hardly fear for your safety. You are more than capable of defending yourself. After all, I trained you back when I ran the coven...

That's true. You always were a bastard though. Made some of the fledglings tremble in fear of your wrath.

Good. It's just like that saying goes, 'Only the strong survive'. Back in the days of the coup, it was required to be a hardballing prick as I was. But those days are gone now.

Has the great Maximus gone soft on us? Sasha teased, a laugh echoing in Sigrun's mind.

Oh yes, I've even gone as far as getting fluffy pillows and gardens of flowers! Sigrun replied with a laugh of his own, I don't think you'd want me to have to triumph over you with a pillow in hand do you?

Sasha laughed again, Pillow fighting? Is that what the great Maximus has resorted to?

Oh, that's it. You're slated for a duel when we get back to Tarlachia. You've insulted my honor!

Sasha merely laughed.

Sigrun grinned visibly. He enjoyed these trash-talking conversations with Sasha. It had been something they had done for centuries, and sometimes even resulted in duels that lasted until one was forced to surrender.

"Ah... the Lady Sinclair and I are at odds - at least publically- over a matter fit only for gossip. It allows for a certain leeway, since it gives her room to distance herself from any of my research that may come under unfavorable public scrutiny. This comes with certain dangers, politically speaking, but if that is the cost..." Kaede trailed off shrugging. "I study the energy patterns at crossroads - for lack of a better term - the point where the extraplanar energies intersect with this realm. For so long many considered physics and metaphysics irreconcible."

Ferrannifer nodded, "Well Laura is a bit more ahh, tighter in her controls in some ways. In others she's more lax.

We have on such point near Dragonsreach where I had my school of necromancy before I joined the Queen. It was the location of the tomb of a lich whom I whose researches I was studying in some detail."

(Michael wasn't approaching Laura, however, but Konnie. "Excuse me", he said, his voice gruff, "but I'm afraid I've not had time for arrangements. If this is going to last more than just one day I'll need to find and examine quarters for the Queen."

'Forgive him', Laura said in Konnie’s mind, 'he is my father's security chief. He's efficient, but he is blunt and probably not happy with having to accompany me as we don't exactly get along.')

Konnie smiled politely at Michael.
"The conference is likely to last several days. The Ministry will provide accommodations available to all who request them. The quarters occupy the above ground levels of this tower. I believe the Queen's room is located on the twenty fifth floor, if you desire to inspect them."

Simultaneously, the magus replied to Laura's telepathic message. No need for apologies, I am hardly a diplomat. Besides, I understand perfectly the need for security.

Todd sighed, folded it up and put it back into his briefcase. He got up, took his glass and walked back to the group. He heard Lauralin talk about when the conference would start.

("I'll go ask."

Todd turned, spotted Konnie and walked over to her.

"Excuse me ma'am, but when is this conference starting?")

Konnie looked to Todd, checking a chronometer she wore on her wrist.
"Interesting that you ask, the conference is starting now."

She turned to face the room as a whole, projecting her voice across the lobby.
"Ladies and gentlemen, though I regret to interrupt your conversations, the conference will be starting in a few minutes. If you would be so kind as to follow me, we can get this under way."

Konnie walked to the elevator, tapping a button the wall controls. The polished brass door slid open, revealing an unusually large elevator roughly fifteen feet to a side. She walked inside, beckoning the others to follow her.

Todd drained his glass, placed it on a table and went back to grab his briefcase. He opened it, made sure everything was in there before closing it and heading to the elevator. Just as he got there, he paused and turned as everyone headed to the elevator. He stepped aside and smiled politly to the women in the crowd.

"I think the custom is, ladies first."

Lauralin smiled at Sigrun, "It seems we shall have to postpone our conversation." She nodded politely to Sigrun and Sasha and approached the room that was revealed.

Smiling she curtseyed to Todd, "Thank you, noble Sir", she replied and stepped toward the room with Ferrannifer.

'The room is a bit small for this assembly', Ferrannifer mumbled to Laura.

'Space seems to be at a premium here, do not forget that', she replied in an equally low tone.

Todd blushed slightly as Lauralin spoke to him. He didn't think what he did was all that noble, he just believed in manners. He stepped into the elevator and went to a corner in the back of the elevator. He leaned back against the wall and closed his eyes; thinking over what had just occured in the last few minutes.

I just met some vampires...na that can't be true....well, they were drinking...there are no such thing as...there are such things as, no there are not....no vampires in the..yes there are....

As his thoughts driftted and blended together he quietly muttered.

"Thinking like a Simatarian..or I think I am."

Konnie was momentarily puzzled by Ferranifer's comment, though when the reality dawned on her, she grinned faintly.

"Never been on an elevator before, have you?"

"Elevator?" Ferrannifer seemed to think about that for a bit, "I've never heard of an elevator."

Sigrun and Sasha had followed the crowds, being among the last to enter the elevator. Sigrun turned and faced the door, crossing his hands in front of him. Sasha stood next to him, unmoving, but her mind quietly probing each of the others in the elevator, except for those with magic, or psychic abilities. From those that were subject to her probes, she drew their names, and their information, but did not delve much further beyond that, as a means of diplomatic respect.

What an irony...diplomatic respect, and here I am, enacting my version of spying... she thought to herself with an inward smile.

As Sasha probed she would notice that one mind, that of the Queen's, seem not to be present at all.

Whittleton followed in the general direction everyone seemed to be going, carrying his luggage with him. Its starting already? He thought. Damn...

He was hoping that the conference was going to be for another day at least, maybe allowing time for the guest to get settled into their hotel rooms first. Well that was how the Artians did it, mainly becuase they had every inch of the hotel covered with hidden microphones and cameras. Good thing he had that worthless git Gervase with him then, it would be even better if he was here now. However there was Gervase's believes concerning leaving atmosphere of one own planet and that held by nothern Ruskkies over Vampires...

Not a good time to be habouring such thoughts.

He entered the lift, making sure to stand in the corner out of the way. He took a moment or two to glance around at the somewhat large lift, almost reminding him of the cargo lifts used throughout Ruskkia.

Paige noticed the movements of the other delegates, who seemed to be preparing to make a move towards the location the conference was to take place in. She gave Darius another smile, before gathering up her things, and making ready to follow the others. It seemed things were about to begin now that most of the pleasantries were out of the way. She would have liked a chance to speak to the person she had collided with, but then she had time to do so in future, unless of course things turned bad, and they were forced to leave early. Stranger things had happened at events like this.

Sure that she was still looking presentable, if a little out of sorts, she raised her eyes to her obstacle and saviour, smiling in return. “Oh, excuse my rudeness. I’m Paige St John.” She presented her hand to the man before her. “From Tartarus.” She resumed smiling, pleased to have someone to keep her mind from herself.

Her smiling face froze, then collapsed into broken shards of color and sharp light. Steele was gone, transported to a metaphysical plane of existance, lost in the grasp of the Shadowspawn, fighting his minions to exhaustion while seeking a way back to his physical shell. He spent over 8 months there, his life nearly forfeit on numerous occasions. Finally, the nano-technology and it's built-in safeguards brought him back to himself, only mere seconds after he left. He knew that this was only a temporary reprieve, and the debt he owed would be collected at a later date. Shaken, Steele looked down at Paige who was gathering up her gear to follow the other delegates.

"My apologies, Ms. St-John...my mind was elsewhere for a moment. I am familiar with your homeworld, if only from a distance." Steele began moving with her, following the flow of people towards the elevator. As they walked, he continued speaking to her.

"This conference should prove to be interesting, to say the least, don't you think? I have seldom seen so many humans and vampires assembled in one place without each one trying to kill the other...if I may be so forward, what is Tartarus' interest in this meeting? I wasn't aware that your people had a vampire problem on your world..."

As Sasha probed the minds of the people around her, Todd opened his eyes and rubbed his head. Damn, got a headache. The human shrugged, his head feeling slightly funny because of the vampire's probe, and reached into his briefcase for some relief. He pulled out a small bottle of Tylenol and opened it. Todd looked inside and sighed, it was empty.

"Does anyone have any Tylenol or something for a headache on them?"

Sasha frowned slightly when she noticed that there was one mind missing. The other vampiress, Lauralin. Not that she would attempt to do that, for she would be caught. Such was the way of vampires, such was their skills of detection of the sort. However, she was free to use the probes on those in the elevator who were not skilled in their defense of the mind.

What is it? Sigrun's voice interupted her thoughts. She didn't look at him, but responded nonetheless.

Nothing.

You're probing again. Sigrun said matter-of-factly.

Just innocent scans. I like to know who others are... she defended telepathically.

Keep it at a minimum. I'd like to keep us friendly to all here.

Obviously...

"Does anyone have any Tylenol or something for a headache on them?" Todd's voice interrupted all conversations. Sasha grinned ever so slightly, her fangs peering slightly in the shadows of her lips.

"My apologies, Ms. St-John...my mind was elsewhere for a moment. I am familiar with your homeworld, if only from a distance." Steele began moving with her, following the flow of people towards the elevator. As they walked, he continued speaking to her.

"This conference should prove to be interesting, to say the least, don't you think? I have seldom seen so many humans and vampires assembled in one place without each one trying to kill the other...if I may be so forward, what is Tartarus' interest in this meeting? I wasn't aware that your people had a vampire problem on your world..."

“Really, there is no need to apologise. I must say I am having trouble focusing myself.” Paige looked around her at all the other delegates, the humans and vampires interacting just as the man before her said. “Let’s hope that it remains this peaceful, and that the hosts have catered for all diets.”

Paige turned back to Steele and frowned at his words, before smiling again. “Tartarus does not have a vampire problem that we are aware of anyway.” She shifted her briefcase in her hand, as she adjusted her jacket. “But a nation’s weakness comes from its lack of knowledge…so I am here in my capacity as a scientist to help ensure that we have all possible knowledge.” She laughed lightly. “Plus I admit to always being fascinated in their kind.” The laughter died away. "And what is your interest here? If that is not too personal a question."

("Elevator?" Ferranifer seemed to think about that for a bit, "I've never heard of an elevator.")

Konnie nodded in understanding.
"Ah, I see. An elevator is a mechanical device used to travel between the floors of a tall building; faster than stairs but slower than teleportation."

As she sensed the psychic probing, she reinforced her mental shielding. Not that she had anything to hide, but it was not in her nature to leave her mind open to any who might look. One might have noticed her already bright blue eyes flash for a moment as she deflected the probe. Konnie did not take offense as some might; given her profession, such things were commonplace.

Glancing around to make certain everyone was inside, she pressed a button on a wall control panel, closing the doors and setting the elevator into motion. Rather than moving upwards, the elevator began to descend beneath ground level. Every few seconds there was a faint metallic clanking sound, marking each floor they passed by. By elevator standards the trip was rather long, smoothly coming to a end almost five minutes after it had started.

When the doors slid open once more, the room beyond bore no resemblance to the modernized efficiency of the lobby. Stretching out before them was a vast hall. Along gray stone walls, columns carved of black obsidian towered up to meet a vaulted ceiling lost in the shadows above. Between the columns, numerous empty arches led off the main hall to darkened side halls and rooms. After almost a hundred feet, the hall opened onto a cavernous rectangular chamber that would serve as the conference room. In the center of the chamber sat a long table of dark wood with various manuscripts scattered along its surface. The columns each held an archaic looking Tesla lamp fixture, their electric arcs bathing the room in faint blue-white light. The air was cool and moist, with an almost imperceptible scent of ozone coming from the crackling arc lights.

Konnie stepped from the elevator, smiling back at her guests and gesturing to a half dozen human servants to help the guests with their luggage or any other needs they might have.

"Welcome to the conference room, I trust it meets with your approval. Make yourselves at home, and if you need anything, perhaps refreshments or Tylenol, feel free to ask."

Paige turned back to Steele and frowned at his words, before smiling again. “Tartarus does not have a vampire problem that we are aware of anyway.” She shifted her briefcase in her hand, as she adjusted her jacket. “But a nation’s weakness comes from its lack of knowledge…so I am here in my capacity as a scientist to help ensure that we have all possible knowledge.” She laughed lightly. “Plus I admit to always being fascinated in their kind.” The laughter died away. "And what is your interest here? If that is not too personal a question."

The elevator doors were closing as they arrived, sparing Steele the discomfort of being in that enclosed space with Lauralin. He was sure it would have been unpleasant for her, as well. Turning to Paige, the big man felt better at the sound of her laughter, and smiled along with her.

"No, that's a fair question, given our circumstances. Some would say that I have been blessed to have had many experiences with vampires...others would say I was cursed. Before I became the ruler of my planet, the nature of my business allowed me to gain alot of insight about these creatures. I thought I may be able to share my knowledge, and expand it even more."

This was not the complete truth, but it would suffice for now. Steele had seen Paige's reaction when he suggested that vampires were "a problem", and assumed she'd be even more unhappy to hear that he'd hunted vampires for well over a decade. Granted, the blood-suckers he'd killed were some of the worst monsters in the galaxy...rogues who used their powers to enslave others, sometimes entire planets, using the native population as little more than cattle. Killing these monsters was not a pleasant profession, but in Steele's mind it was a noble one.

And it was personal.

His parents had been killed by vampires, torn from his life at an early age. Some of his best friends and most loyal soldiers had lost their lives, fighting by his side proudly. Lauralin, the woman he loved, was married to a vampire...and was one herself. But these weren't things you told a stranger, even one as lovely as Paige St-John.

Whittleton followed in the general direction everyone seemed, carrying his luggage with him. Its starting already? He thought. Damn...

Seeing the man struggling with his luggage, Lauralin mumbled briefly and made a barely perceptable gesture, making the baggage lighter by almost two-thirds.

Todd opened his eyes and rubbed his head.
"Does anyone have any Tylenol or something for a headache on them?"

Though Laura had no idea what tylenol's were she was familiar with gesture that indicated a headache. The man had seemed fine earlier, perhaps the scanning that someone was performing bothered him. She reached out, muttering another incantation and gently touched his arm. The spell could be a bit disorienting as it took the body back in time and then brought it forward in the condition that it had been at that previous point in time. The flashing of things going rapidly in reverse and then forward again tended to give vertigo, but it would remove any difficulties or injuries that had occured between then and now. She only hoped that he hadn't been drinking or engaged in any sexual activity a few hours ago as that might cause more problems rather than solving one minor headache.

When the doors slid open once more, the room beyond bore no resemblance to the modernized efficiency of the lobby. Stretching out before them was a vast hall.

Lauralin stepped out, admiring the architecture and more at home with the older style.

In the center of the chamber sat a long table of dark wood with various manuscripts scattered along its surface.

Seeing the manuscripts Lauralin headed immedietly for the room and the scripts themselves.

"THREE libraries in the mansion, books in every other room and fifteen libraries in the capital. You would think she's never seen the printed word before." She turned to Konnie, "I'm sorry, she's a knowledge hound. I assume the manuscripts are there for our use but if not I'll call her back."

Todd marveled at the vast chamber. He asked a servant for some Tylenol and saw the man disapper. He was cemented in place, unable to move from the sight. Todd didn't feel Lauralin's fingers touch his arm, the next thing he felt and saw nearly made him vomit.

He couldn't make out what was happening or what he was seeing. It looked like the inside of the elevator, but he couln't be sure. His head, body, and thoughts were swimming until it felt like he was rammed back into the present. Todd blinked, unsure of what had just happened.

"Sir?" the servant looked at Todd and was holding a small bottle of Tylenol and a glass of water.

Todd just noticed something, his headache was gone. "Uhh..my headache just disappered....mind if I keep the bottle?"

The man simply nodded before going off to other duties. Todd pocketed the fresh bottle and headed towards the table.

Paige watched as the doors of the elevator slid shut, not she was sorry, having never been fond of being squashed in a lift with too many people, and the delay meant that she could get a little better acquainted with Steele, being as she did not know anyone else at the conference. She nodded her head as he spoke, allowing her eyes to casually travel over his body admiringly, as she returned her gaze to his face.

“I can’t say that my own experiences are as extensive as your own seem to be, but that does not mean I would not give my right arm for the chance to get one under a microscope.” She laughed, making the usual scientist joke, looking around at the others, hoping she had not just offended someone. “To be honest, I guess I’m like countless people whose only real knowledge of vampires comes from someone else, and I’d like to change that.”

(OOC A letter is sent, with very fine flowing handwriting, unusual in style, flourishing and rather sophisticated. The paper is of a very high quality, and slightly waxy to the touch, due to the wood used to make it.)


To Konnie Hariku,

My apologies for not replying sooner, my buisness within my nation has been frantic and rather urgant. It is regretable that such matters do absorb so much of my time, as I do enjoy assisting those who seek knowledge. Please allow me to introduce myself, my name is Kain Shentavo Brightblade, a strange breed of vampire to which you may be interested in. Such a strange breed would be best described in person, and more evident.

I would like to attend this meeting, to discuss the nature of vampires in general, and answer any questions which you may have. I must admit, my knowledge on my kind, my general breed and specific alterations I do not understand completely, so this will be a learning experiance for both parties I feel.

If you want to me to attend, please just place your signiture at the bottom of this letter. It will tell me that I am welcome, and that you greet me to the room you read this. Do not be startled if I arrive sooner than you think, I have my own arcane abilities which do allow transportation to be far swifter than what one might consider normal.

Oh, one final note. You might wish to tell your guards or whatever protection you may possess that I would be arriving, and not be alarmed. I have had a tendancy to attract a small army, when the guards think an assassination attempt was in the process! Such is humourous on reflection, but rather alarming to the people I would be meeting. I will bring no weapons, although you could consider my hands weapons. Nothing much I can do about that I am 'fraid. You have my vow that I will not attack you however, if that means anything to you.

Yours in waiting,

Kain Shentavo

_____________

"Great Maker!" Muttered George Whittleton as he stepped into the vast hall, clearly bewildered by the sight whilst at the same time barely noticing that luggage had gotten suddenly lighter. He also didn't noticed the servant standing right next to him until the sixth or seventh 'Sir?'

Whittleton quickly came out of an almost trance like state and lifted up his luggage. "Er...could you place these in my room if possible?"

The servant muttered a reply and took the luggage, then asked. "Anything else sir?"

"Ah yes, could you get hold of some Sodka? Its a Ruskkie brew, I'm not sure if its even legal outside the Ruskkie Empire. Its somewhat 'unstable' you see. If not try the Ruskkie Aether freighter...the AeS Stormwell that should be in orbit. Hopefully they might have a crate or two." The servant looking slightly unsure replied. "Er...certainly sir, I'll try my best."

Whittleton watched as the servant walked away in a somewhat hurried fashion. He walked over to the conference hostress and said. "George Whittleton, the Ruskkie represenative. I'm sorry to bother you, but is it alright to smoke?"

Kaede stepped into the elevator, finding a space near a wall. Out of all modes of transportation, whether mundane or magical, she found mechanical elevators to be the most jarring.

As she sensed the subtle shift in energies caused by someone in the enclosed space performing psychic probes, she subtley altered the quality of her mental defenses - instead of being design to confuse and possibly ensnare, the complex web-like geoemtries were now set to simply to swirl any invading mind back to the outside. This took a bit more energy to maintain, but it was better than the possibilty that her more natural defense mode be mistaken as a hostility.

As the doors opened Kaede stepped into the entrance of the large hall. She stood still for a small handful of seconds, looking around the room, taking in details. Nodding almost imperceptibly to herself she purposefully walked further into the chamber. She flashed a smile as she passed Lauaralin - it seemed the two had the same idea - and headed toward the manuscripts that the other woman was not already studying.

Lauralin grinned at Kaede as they entered the room and began looking through the manuscripts.

Michael looked around the first chamber, glancing down the hallways and then made a circuit of the chamber. 'I don't read anything as a particular threat', Eve whispered. Michael nodded and then moved off to one side of the room with Eve.

Todd set up his laptop on the table near Lauralin. He opened it and as it was booting up, he turned to her and Kaede.

"Did you guys by any chance feel something funny in your heads on the way down? I mean...like get a mild headache?"

"Someone was scanning psionically", Laura replied in non-chalant tone.

(Seeing the manuscripts Lauralin headed immediately for the room and the scripts themselves.

"THREE libraries in the mansion, books in every other room and fifteen libraries in the capital. You would think she's never seen the printed word before." She turned to Konnie, "I'm sorry, she's a knowledge hound. I assume the manuscripts are there for our use but if not I'll call her back.")

Konnie smiled,
"She can feel free to read them as much as she wants, so long as she is careful. Some of those texts are thousands of years old, and not in the best shape. Still, without the pursuit of knowledge we wouldn't be here, now would we?"

(Whittleton watched as the servant walked away in a somewhat hurried fashion. He walked over to the conference hostess and said. "George Whittleton, the Ruskkie representative. I'm sorry to bother you, but is it alright to smoke?")

Konnie unconsciously wrinkled her nose at the mention of smoking. She did not particularly like the smell, and didn't smoke herself. When one had a life expectancy in the thousands of years, it was important not to spoil the lungs with such things.
"Smoke if you wish to, just be careful around the manuscripts. They are irreplaceable, and if you set one on fire, I'll see to it that you share its fate."

Inside the various texts could be found a complete account of Akaton's knowledge of vampires. Many were recently compiled books printed in common English, while others were clearly ancient beyond measure. A few of the more unusual manuscripts were handwritten in blood and bound between covers of carved bone. In any case, they contained very little specific information on vampires, most being general occult documents.

While the others gathered around the table, Konnie lingered near the elevator, absently watching Michael while she waited for the machine to return with the remaining guests. Noting his careful inspection of the chamber, she wondered to herself whether there was any place in the Imperium more secure than their present location. Though the defenses placed around a Ministry building were less tangible than those of a fortress, they were no less potent. Even the very structural beams in the building's framework were arranged in the pattern of ancient runic symbols, forming an arcane ward over the entire facility.

Roughly two thousand feet above, the grinding sound of gears in motion heralded the arrival of the elevator at the lobby.

Patricia grunted as she stepped into the elevator. She kicked her filthy boots on the floor as she awaited the other guests, eyeing them with unabashed hunger burning deep in her red eyes.

Ferranifer moved up beside Lauralin perusing the documents herself. After a short time she laid one carefully down, "I see why you wanted this conference, there's not a great deal here. You do realize, that there is a reason that there is so little information on vampires. We've gone to great lengths to keep our secrets."

(OOC Urm Akaton, when you get the chance, can you reply to that letter or something?)

Sigrun and Sasha glanced around the elegant hall and kept their pace with the rest of the group.

Sasha, enough of the scans.

I stopped when the doors opened.

Good. Now just stay out of trouble.

I am not a child--

No, but I am the ruler, and you will do as I say.

Of course...My apologies.

Sigrun walked over to one of the books and opened it with care as he studied the pages. It had ancient text enscribed with the crimson signature of blood on bone. A truly valuable piece of history. He read the words, but could not understand them, for they were of another language, one he was unfamiliar with. Nevertheless, he had a means of dealing with it.

His hand waved over the book and a light sheen hovered over the book, following his hand. Moments later, text of elven words spawned themselves on the sheen layer and he began to read. Sasha looked over his shoulder, reading along with him. Even though she was a vampire, she had been taught the languages of all of the races of Tarlachia. Such was a requirement to be part of the Royal Council.

Lauralin's voice broke through Sasha's thoughts as she reported that someone had been scanning earlier. She merely grinned inwardly and spoke telepathically to the other vampiress, Some do have a little tendancy to feel slight headaches. It is merely a sign that their minds are slightly stronger than average, so some form of defense will activate, but often is crushed under my skill, thus causing the headache. I do not think there is need to tell who was scanning, as I was only seeking biographical information.

“I can’t say that my own experiences are as extensive as your own seem to be, but that does not mean I would not give my right arm for the chance to get one under a microscope.” She laughed, making the usual scientist joke, looking around at the others, hoping she had not just offended someone. “To be honest, I guess I’m like countless people whose only real knowledge of vampires comes from someone else, and I’d like to change that.”

"You may not have to go to such drastic measures, Ms. St-John." replied Steele, indicating the slim silver case that hung at his side. Seeing that the elevator was still a few floors away, he lifted the case to eye-level and opened it. Inside were a number of vials, each filled with a powdery dust. Three vials contained a red fluid, most certainly blood, and there were a few smaller cases inside, as well. Steele removed one of them, and flicked it open with his thumb. Inside lay a pointed tooth, an incisor about 3 inches long.

"Found this fang on Dragonsreach recently...the fact that it hasn't dissolved probably means the vampire who lost it is still alive." the big man began pointing at the various vials.

"Those are specifically made to null-time, so to speak. I'm not sure exactly how the technology works, but as long as the samples remain in their protective containers, they will stay intact even if the original host is eliminated." He pointed at another case, with a hand-written label that had the letters "K.S." on it.

"Those samples there belong to one of the strangest, and deadliest, vampires I've ever met...we've had a heckuva time trying to analyze them. What my scientists have discovered is that there seems to be an enzyme in that particular blood-strain that could theoretically reverse the effects of vampirism. They just haven't discovered how, as yet. Hopefully, this conference will help change that."

Darius looked at Paige briefly, his eyes glittering and full of hope.

"Imagine...a cure for vampirism. It would change the universe." He was faraway again, and for a brief moment, Paige's face was replaced by Lauralins. Steele mentally shook his head, and St-John swam back into focus as the empty elevator arrived on its return journey. He shut the case carefully.

"Of course, you can have full access to any of these samples...and to any knowledge I have. I look forward to...working closely with you."

It was no lie: Paige was easy on the eyes, and there was something about her no-nonsense attitude that attracted the big man. He smiled at her, and offered her his massive arm. A quick nod to the elevator indicated it was time to go.

"Shall we join the others?"

Accepting the offered arm, Paige entered the elevator and looked up at Steele, her eyes wide with wonder at his words and his revelation. “The idea of curing vampirism is a very large goal, and although this may make me sound very sceptical, I do see one disadvantage. If you take the curse out of the vampire, are you not just left with a corpse?” She frowned. “Of course, my knowledge is purely based on myth, for a better word.”

She stood silent for a moment as the rest of the delegates filed into the car, watching the doors slide close with a hiss. “I am most grateful for this opportunity you are offering me. The chance to final work on real vampire DNA rather than hearsay will help no end, and who knows…we might just be able to reach that lofty goal.” She gave Steele another smile, one that lit up her face, as she thanked her luck for introducing her to such an interesting member of the party.

"Someone was scanning psionically", Laura replied in non-chalant tone.

Todd stood there for several seconds as he looked at one of the manuscripts. The one he was looking at was made in some red ink, it didn't take long for him to figure out it was written in blood. Todd shuddered and closed it before looking at another one, written in acutal ink.

Todd looked up at Laura.

"What is 'scanning psioncially'? Do you mean...like reading my mind?"

Lauralin's voice broke through Sasha's thoughts as she reported that someone had been scanning earlier. She merely grinned inwardly and spoke telepathically to the other vampiress, Some do have a little tendancy to feel slight headaches. It is merely a sign that their minds are slightly stronger than average, so some form of defense will activate, but often is crushed under my skill, thus causing the headache. I do not think there is need to tell who was scanning, as I was only seeking biographical information.

'To be honest', she replied in Sasha's mind, 'I knew only that someone was scanning, not who. I had cloaked my own mind, a technique I had learned from Lady Ariel of the Deryn.'

"What is 'scanning psioncially'? Do you mean...like reading my mind?"

Lauralin looked at Todd, "That's one thing, but not necessarily. I could scan the room just to see if there's anyone hiding in the room, or just see if anyone else has psi talent. I could read a mind but anything other than surface thoughts is considered rude. The Lady Ariel can interrigate. Such as the recent terrorist attack in dragonsreach when she had to literaly rip the information from the mind of one of the guilty party. That, however, has unfortunate consequences. As Baghtru put it, he was left with the intelligence of a zuchinni. That is ...."

Ferrannifer put her hand over Lauralin's mouth and looked at Todd. "Yes, like reading minds, but it can be used for a number of other things." She removed her hand from Laura and looked at her. "See? Simple question and I was able to finish answering it sometime before he died of old age", she said smiling.

"Yes", Laura replied to her advisor, "but not as propetiously."

She stood silent for a moment as the rest of the delegates filed into the car, watching the doors slide close with a hiss. “I am most grateful for this opportunity you are offering me. The chance to final work on real vampire DNA rather than hearsay will help no end, and who knows…we might just be able to reach that lofty goal.” She gave Steele another smile, one that lit up her face, as she thanked her luck for introducing her to such an interesting member of the party.

They rode the rest of the way up in silence, the arrival of other delegates causing all conversations to cease. Steele could feel Paige pressed against his side, the warmth of her presence obvious and intriguing. Arriving moments later, they waited their turn as the other passengers filed out. Stepping out into the room after Paige, Steele scanned the room quickly, noting the occupants and the surroundings.

Lauralin was there, a fact that caused his heart to skip a beat. He immediately felt a buzz at the base of his skull, an indication that there was psionic activity around him. Though his shields blocked most of the signals, he still recognized the telltale taste of Lauralin's unique mental signature. Steele also realized that there were other vampires in the room, a reality that was made clear the moment he stepped off the elevator.

Sensing the threat, the nanites in his blood had automatically gone into a defensive combat mode, bringing his exo-unit to full readiness. He felt the power charge through him, a bastard-mix of eldritch energies and alien techno-magic. Very little now stood between the man that was Steele, and the vampire-killing machine he had been created to be. With practiced ease, he dialed himself down, the power dissipating within him, the storm broken. Voices on the wind still called for blood...

Steele forced himself to ignore them, and instead turned to his companion. Paige hadn't seemed to notice anything had occured, and she continued to hold his arm while looking out into the hall. He enjoyed the feel of her hand, the slight weight holding him down, anchoring him to the here and now. Smiling, Darius spoke in a conspiratorial tone.

"I find myself somewhat parched, and in desperate need of something to slake my thirst. Care to join me at the refreshment table?"

Stepping out of the elevator, her arm still hooked in Steele’s Paige let her eyes roam around the area, once more checking out her fellow delegates. Unlike her companion, she was not able to detect the vampires around them other than by the general characteristics that were common among the species. Despite her gaze, her thoughts were still on the conversation she had had before.

Turning at his voice, Paige nodded briefly and smiled, feeling more than a little relieved not to be standing in the middle of the room alone. “A drink would be wonderful. I’m a little dry myself.” Once more her eyes flicked between the man she was with and the others nearby. “Anything but red wine.” She laughed lightly, before turning towards the refreshment table.

Kain's letter arrived through the usual channels, and like most foreign messages, was quickly diverted to one of the primary logic engines for analysis and response. With the click of gears, the perpetual motion wheel shunted power to the ancient machine. The elaborate writing style slowed the process, demanding the functionality of portions of the machine that had sat motionless for many years. Regardless of time and efficiency, the logic engine steadily analyzed the letter, extrapolating all possible meanings and statisticly eliminating all but the intended one. Finding that the message requested personal signature, it was again diverted, this time to Konnie's present location. It arrived via vacuum tube in one of the room ajoining the conference room and a servant delivered it to Konnie. She read the letter quickly, withdrawing a pen from her pants pocket and scratching out a brief response.

To Mr. Kain Shentavo,

I have received your letter, and I welcome you to attend our conference. It is always a pleasure to have one with first hand experience on these matters. The guards will be advised of your arrival, and the arcane wards lowered to allow your transport.

Konnie Hariku

Todd listened to Lauralin before Ferrannifer cut her off and offered a simplier explination. He looked back at his laptop and typed some notes on the page he was reading. He thought back to the mind reading before mumbling something under his breath.

"Reading anyone's mine to any extent is rude."

Todd continued to type notes and carefully leaf through the manuscript before stopping. He looked up at the people around the table.

"Does anyone know if the entire 'vampires hate holy objects' thing is true or not?"

"Does anyone know if the entire 'vampires hate holy objects' thing is true or not?"

"Not", said Ferrannifer.

"It depends", Lauralin added and was about to say more but stopped.

A low pool of mist rapidly formed nearby Konnie, the thick gas swirling upwards to form limbs, features, textures. The vampire had arrived quickly, his presence flowing in rather subtly than the rather startling snap of magic which others had. The mist had a cooling affect on the area, not a hostile coldness, but a refreshing breeze of sorts. The sort of cool you get when you enter a cellar filled with beer for a long time.

"My thanks for inviting me, and allowing me to arrive at late notice. I presume you are Konnie?" A deep voice asked politely, his accent being one of an educated man, and his tone confident and at ease.

The mist figure had fully formed to reveal the vampire which now stood in the corner, who had asked the question. What a sight! Kain was no ordinary vampire , to look at him was to know that he was not like other vampires. Indeed, to the ignorant viewer, one might suspect him of being demonic. Such was true in a small sense.

His flesh was a dark green with a leathery texture to it. It seemed tightly wraped around his strong frame, bone and muscle revealing themselves unashamedly on his chest and arms. The skin had thin rivers of a dark brown in it, which made the mind hypontised to look upon it. Kain's figure was not particulary tall, nor was it particulary strapping, he was average in height, and his muscles were indeed well toned and refined, but would be bested by most muscle bound humans. Of course, this reflected nothing on his true strength, as all vampires were imbued with additional strength beyond thier capabilities.

His head had a large mane of white hair, combed prestinely backwards, the sivler-white substance moving freely of it's own accord behind him. A crown of his green wrapped bone raised above his forehead, preventing the hair from creeping over where it was supposed to be. The hair was ultra fine, healthy and shining so much that at the right light it seemed to be a sheet of mercuary swaying in a breeze.

He wore rather plain clothing, but neat and formal to suit this occasion. He seemed like a member of the clergy in his outfit, his practical robes fastened with leather around his waist. The cloth was hardwearing, and seemed to have the odd, refined arcane rune inscribed into it carefully, with loving care. Upon the breast pocket was a small symbol, a blood red heart, bleeding from beign impaled by a long sword. Such was his clan symbol, Shentavo, and upon his right shoulder and left knee was his namesake, Brightblade, a wave blade pointed upwards, with circular pools eminating from it. A simple black was this symbol, with a slight gold trim which was barely noticable.

"I would extend my hand to shake yours, but....obviously, such would not be wanted." Kain said politely, raising his hand in self-explaination.

His hands...and indeed his feet, were talons. Pronged, cloven talons, three on each hand and foot, two for fingers, one for opposable thumb. The cloven seemed to be able to flex and be more organic than it should be, and it was covered by a contrasting black leather. These gloves were of a strange matieral, odd, long lasting, and shining in the light of this room.

Overall, this figure commanded a polite respect. This vampire seemed old, but it was hard to tell. His brown eyes told of great endurance, and his aura seemed to indicate a certain degree of experiance. To those sensative to the magic of the world, this man seemed to resonate a hint of otherworldliness. Perhaps due to his vampire origins, perhaps due to his other origins. And also, if one were to look over his defences, one could tell immediately that this vampire was extremely potent in the arcane.

Sasha spoke up softly at Todd's latest question.

"It differs from breed to breed, but often, it is more myth than fact. Crosses, holy water, churches, all have no effect on those like me. We however, do have our setbacks, that even can kill us..."

She turned to Todd, noticing the look on his face. "Yes, Todd. I am one of them."

She bared her fangs slightly to account her words, before sheathing them behind her lips once more. Her eyes had momentarily gone from normal to a crimson tinge surrounding the pupil, before returning to normal once more.

Sigrun chuckled as he glanced over toward Todd, "No worries son. Here, you are safe."

He turned upon hearing a familiar voice and smiled, "Kain, mellon...it is good to see you alive and well my friend!"

"Alive and well I am Sigrun, alive and well I am. And, if I may add to your comment about the nature of the information of the holy symbols against vampires. Most individuals, when bearing an item of supposed holy significance have no affect on vampires. But, some however do. I doubt that this is due to a God's chosen intervention, more of the individual's confidence within thier own chosen defence. Unwittingly, some humans can unlock psychic abilities through holy symbols. They can think that God would act through them, and they tamper reality in order to repulse the targets by this belief. Obviously, the more devout and faithful in this power they are given, will be give a far more powerful repuse. But mostly, untrained individuals will only irritate, at most only lightly ward vampires away. Deliberately attuned magical weapons and artifacts designed to combat vampires is another matter, that works on simple arcane theories, identifying race wavelengths and conflicting those wavelengths with new reality ones." Kain added helpfully.

(Ferranifer moved up beside Lauralin perusing the documents herself. After a short time she laid one carefully down, "I see why you wanted this conference, there's not a great deal here. You do realize, that there is a reason that there is so little information on vampires. We've gone to great lengths to keep our secrets.")

Konnie nodded at Ferranifer's comment.
"Oh yes, I have run into the secrecy problem many times during my studies, though I suppose it is not without cause. I understand there are many who endeavor to slay vampires wherever possible, most unfortunate. Even in Akaton, where the slaying of vampires is banned by law, there is always a certain tension."

She looked away for a moment, picking up an old book bound in metal. She flipped it open to a page depicting the proper way to stake a vampire. Sighing, she continued.
"Our other main problem is one of time. In Akaton, vampirism has only become common in the past few centuries. Most of our sources date back to an era when vampires were labeled as monsters and hunted without mercy. A truly disgusting practice."

Hearing Todd's question, Konnie closed the book and returned it to the table. She thought it over a minute before turning to him.
"I have occasionally seen holy items effect a vampire. However, in my experience, it depends largely on the strength of the vampire and the holiness of the artifact in question."

She paused, sensing Kain a moment before he materialized. Despite his appearance, it was what Konnie felt, rather than what she saw that first guided her reaction. Years of training told her that he was a threat, and had she not been expecting him, reflexes would have resulted in an unfortunately fiery incident. Instead, she smiled, trying, but failing to keep a surprised tone out of her voice as she responded to his question.
"Yes, that would be me. Would I be correct in assuming that you are Mr. Shentavo?"

Todd was greatly suprised when he heard that holy objects had little effect on vampires. No sooner had Sasha bared her fangs, did many in the room sense the human's heartbeat accelerate. His heart got back to slightly above normal when Sigrun told him that he was somewhat safe. Todd didn't think that any vampire in the room would try to feed from him, but he always had a small can of mace in his pocket in case he was mugged.

Todd caught some strange movement out of the corner of his eye and turned to see the mist slowly form Kain. Holy hell.. The man was able to keep himself from gawking at Kain, but the look in his eyes told everyone the pure shock he had from seeing the demon looking vampire.

Trying to get his mind busy again Todd turned to Sasha.

"You..you said that there are different breeds of vampires, can you tell teh breeds apart? On a brief note on weakness...I know silver hurts or kills werewolves, does it have any effect on vampires?"

He sensed him before he saw him, alarms shrilling in his head. Steele had known that it was only a matter of time before he met this one again, and wasn't surprised that it would be here. It was proving to be a far smaller universe than he'd believed, the big security man thought wryly to himself. Oh well, at least this conference would be anything but boring.

Steele continued to the bar with Paige, deciding to prolong his pleasure for a little while longer. The company of the charming Ms. St-John was indeed a pleasant one, and the longer he spent in her presence, the easier it would be to deal with the drama that was sure to come. There were many stories in this room, many tales still unfinished, and new ones to be written.

He gestured to the attendant, calling him over for service. While they waited for their drinks, Steele leaned against the bar and considered Paige. She was looking back towards the center of the room now, her eyes drawn to the hubbub that his arrival had caused. He followed her gaze, then spoke quietly into her ear.

"Kain Shentavo. As you can see, not a human. He ain't yer standard bloodsucker either...in fact, he's not like any other vampire I've ever kil...met before."

The drinks arrived at that moment, and they turned back to face each other. Raising his glass, he toasted the young woman before him.

"To discovery, in whatever form it takes, and to the search, which makes the discovery even sweeter." Steele held her eye for a moment, then drained his glass.

Patricia smirked faintly in the direction of Kain, the strange aura of fear continuing to emanate from her person. She shrugged slightly as she was handed a glass and tossed the entire glass into her mouth, chewing noisily. She swallowed with a bright, grotesque smile. "May I have another?"

"You..you said that there are different breeds of vampires, can you tell teh breeds apart? On a brief note on weakness...I know silver hurts or kills werewolves, does it have any effect on vampires?"


Sasha narrowed her eyes at Todd momentarily as she mulled over his last words.

To know lycans are prone to silver and suggest vernerability in vampires...interesting. He thinks outside the box...

She nodded, "Yes, but as far as I am aware, it only is a weakness of my breed, descendants of the Assingtonian moonwalkers. As far as telling the breeds apart, look at him," she gestured over to Kain, "Is he not different from myself?"

Todd listened quietly to what Sasha had to say. Assington, need to keep in mind to stay away from there. His eyes gently shifted to Kain, before shifting back to Sasha.

"Ahh...well.....I guess there are some different kinds of vampries out there. So uh..."

"Sasha." The vampire said.

"Right Sasha..pleasure to meet you. I'm kinda curious to know...well, I know in the movies that to turn into a vampire you need to drink vampire blood..is that always the case? I mean, can just a bite do anything besides sting a lot?"

"As far as I know, one must be drained almost completely, before they take in the blood of a vampire as their own. With this transfer, comes the blessings of the darkness."

Sigrun broke in with an off comment, "There is one I know of who was bitten, but not drained. It took him a thousand years before he fully embraced the darkness that lay inside him. And I know this because I watched him get bitten in a coup de'tat in Tarlachia back then."

Sigrun closed the book he was looking through, and turned to Todd, "I was not then, what you see before you now..."

He glanced over to Kain and winked slightly, a grin on his face.

If it was Sigurn's mission to confuse the human, he succeded. Todd pulled out some paper and his book on the Simatarian Ragners, and used it as a makeshift clipboard as he tried to figure out what the elf meant.

"Okay...average lifespan of a human is about seventy to ninety years..."

He began to scribble down equation after equation before pausing and looking at the elf. Todd placed his book down, confusion written all over his face. What the elf said was not making any sense. He figured that what he meant by not being who he was today was Sigrun saying that he had changed as a person. Todd started to mumble.

"A person...bitten by a vampire, lives for a thousand years before turning. That means...a possible virus, or his body reacted to it in some strange way because......because why? Maybe his nationality has never had contact with anything like vampires before....or....just had a bad immune system.....why...."

Todd's voice trailed off as he stared at Sigrun.

"This person..the fella who took a thousand years to turn. What has become of him?"

Sigrun smiled, "Stephen Malone is his name. He is alive and well...but as I said, he has taken on the blessings of vampirism. I've not seen him for a little while, but I'm sure he's just fine."

Sasha smirked, remembering that she had briefly met Stephen at the Star Trials back home. "Yes...he's fine..." she commented, the smirk remaining on her face.

Todd stood there, the name sparked something in his mind.

"I have heard that name somewhere, but I don't know where."

Todd's fingers rapped on his book before he paused. His eyes slowly shifted down to it and he opened it to a paragraph he had been reading earlier.

...early in the battle, Sargeant Stephen Malone went to aid an injured comrade and disappered...He was found four hours later, brutally tortured in the bowls of Mendez's compound. Evacuated, Malone underwent several hours of surgery, he was able to survive. Leaving the army a week before he was going to be forcably retired because of a possible pyschological breakdown...

Todd didn't read anymore, he promptly closed the book. His eyes were wide as he glanced from the book to Sigrun and Sasha. Na, different Stephen Malone. A Simatarian vampire, laughable...but..what if... He looked at them, before his eyes flashed back to the book. The elf and the vampire quickly saw the man was spooked.

Todd opened the book to several pages of photographs, found the one he wanted and showed it to Sigrun and Sasha.

The black and white photograph showed a man in military fatigues, a bandana around his head, and craddling an AK-47 assault rifle. The caption read underneath the photo:

Corporal Stephen Malone, Alpha Company, 1st Battalion

Todd looked at them as they studied the photograph.

"Is this the Stephen Malone you were talking about?"

Sigrun looked into Todd's eyes calmly, not bothering to look at the picture. There was only one Stephen Malone in the Golden Simatar. He merely grinned,

"What do you think?"

Sasha remained standing, her arms crossing in front of her torso and locking themselves together. She also had a grin plastered on her face. She was enjoying Todd's curiosity getting more than he bargained for.

Todd's eyes went wide, he turned to a servant.

"Flint Firebrand..oh nevermind..got some with me, just get me a glass please."

Todd turned to his suitcase as the servant left. He pulled out a small brown bottle and took the glass which the servant brought him shortly afterward. He quickly poured some of the amber liquid into the glass and drained it in one gulp.

He coughed and his voice was hoarse as he spoke.

"Flint Firebrand...finest kind."

Todd poured himself another drink and stared at Sigrun and Sasha. He looked at them, his eyes wide.

"Are you telling me...a highly decorated Simatarian soldier..is alive."

Todd stopped himself, took a sip of the Firebrand before speaking again.

"You are telling me there is a vampire in the Golden Simatar...and this vampire is a Simatarian?"

Sasha rolled her eyes visibly and sarcastically remarked,

"No, you have aliens in every level of your government, and your mother is really a bipedal dog..."

Sigrun chuckled, "You Simitarians are rather ignorant of what's going on, aren't you? However, I will tell you of Stephen's life since his resignation. He had engaged in battles that have far surpassed the importance, and challenge of your soldiers. He has earned himself respect, from others, and most noticeably from myself."

Sigrun reached out and took the bottle from Todd's hands, setting it upon a table nearby, "You don't need this."

Sasha stepped closer to Todd bringing herself into contact with him. Her hands caressed his arms as she spoke softly. Her words were like poison, seeping into Todd's every thought and focusing him on her completely, "Ignorance, or innocence...it matters not..."

She brought herself to kiss him, but opened her mouth enough to let her fangs slide out and scrape against his cheek. Startled out of his stupor, he pulled away and stared at her. She smiled, her fangs clearly seen at long last.

"We have been around your people for a long time, and only now you are beginning to realize the magnitude of the other half of this world, the darker half, the shunned half."

Todd was competely confused, not only because of downing half of a bottle of Flint Firebrand, but from what the pair was saying. He tried to reach for the bottle as Sigrun took it away, only to be faced by Sasha. He closed his eyes as he was sure he was about to feel her lips on his cheek or lips.

When he felt the scraping, he knew something was wrong. Remembering she was a vampire, he jumped back and felt a slightly sting on his cheek. Now looking at her, he finally saw her fangs, with something red on the tip of them; his blood. Sasha licked the blood off her fangs and smiled.

"Don't worry...it takes a bite to make you a vamp." she said.

Todd gulped and unconsiously rubbed his neck. He turned to Sigrun, hoping for some answers.

"You are making little sense to me. There is no way...he could been made into a vampire. Hell, I know that our entire nation doesn't believe in vampires, spare for a few...but...."

Todd looked at Sigrun, still very confused.

"Just what the hell are you talking about these...these battles and such? I am very, very confused right now."

Sigrun raised an eyebrow and looked at Todd with cynical eyes. "I think I'll tell you another time. Any more surprising news, and you might have a heart attack. Then I'd have to have Sasha here do something about that..."

Todd's eyes went wide. Sigrun laughed and spoke once more,

"Relax. She's not doing anything, unless I permit her to."

Sasha smiled slightly and leaned against a table, turning her attention to Kain. She could sense his vampiric state, but it was much stronger than normal. She knew why, for Sigrun had told her about him. She admired how the Velmoran held himself with dignity and an air of importance.

Lauralin stood back, listening. Some she knew, some she suspected and some, at least in Dragonsreach, simply wasn't true. Ferrannifer stood by listening intently. She wasn't sure about telling what she knew and Laura seemed quiet, at least for now.

"I wonder what a stir it would cause", Ferrannifer quipped, "to have a Holy Knight present right now."

Konnie watched, with a bemused grin, as Sascha toyed with Todd. Her conscience told her that she ought to do something about it, but she had learned long ago not to listen to that little nagging voice of morality. Besides, she reminded herself, Sascha probably wouldn't do anything too unpleasant to Todd, not with everyone watching. However, interested by the conversation, she walked over closer to the three. She turned her bright eyes on Todd, smiling slightly.

"I wouldn't be so certain there are no vampires in your land. Just because no one believes in them doesn't make them go away. Maybe just one or two, but it would surprise me if there were none, not with so many easy victims. Remember, not believing in them only makes you an unsuspecting target."

Elsewhere, the servant tending to Patricia nervously returned to see if she needed anything. He wondered what had become of her drink, then realized that she was chewing on it, glass and all. They warned me about the vampires, he thought, but who, or what is this creature? Doing his best to keep his voice steady and free of fear, he asked,
"Would you care for a refill, or perhaps just another glass?"

"Might I just point out, it is unfair to state that one can tell the difference between breeds of vampires through appearance. I am an exception, I am not entirely vampire, and I never was entirely human. My original species was Psi, so that might have changed my recreation considerably." Kain added quietly, adopting his usual reflective tone, and his usual posture. A foot upon the wall, his back leaned backwards, his hands crossed. His face looked over everyone here, faces he knew, faces he did not know.

Lauralin stood back, listening. Some she knew, some she suspected and some, at least in Dragonsreach, simply wasn't true. Ferrannifer stood by listening intently. She wasn't sure about telling what she knew and Laura seemed quiet, at least for now.

"I wonder what a stir it would cause", Ferrannifer quipped, "to have a Holy Knight present right now."

Kain's attention was caught, his head looked over to Ferrannifer who said this.

"That would depend if that holy knight suppressed thier aura, or however they access thier abilities." Kain added.

"Well", Ferrannifer replied, "HIS aura is a bit hard to suppress. But since this is about vampires, and holy knights tend to be the ones on the front line, then I should think having one present might present some interesting debate."

"There are", Laura said as she approached Todd, "different breeds. Some are remarkable, others are not. There are also blood lines. Each breed, each blood line has it's own strengths and weaknesses. Therein lies the difficulty for the hunter, that and the fact that a vampires bite, unless they are being particularly malicious, does not hurt. The bite connects the vampire to the victim, or donor, as the case may be. Because the blood is sweet to the vampire then it feels a sense of euphoria at least, if not an almost erotic pleasure. This feeling is transferred to the victim or donor. That is another problem for the hunter. Many will hide the vampire because they WANT to be bitten again. They want that feeling. But a person does not die if the vampire does not wish it, nor change. I feed from my first knight and she provides the blood willingly."

Todd collasped back in a chair, he was soon being overwhelmed by everything going on. His left hand moved to his laptop and without looking he typed a few lines of notes. The notion of a vampire in the Golden Simatar scared the hell out of him; he didn't like the fact that now when he was walking home at night he would have to look over his shoulder to see if he was being stalked by a vampire.

Konnie's use of the term 'easy victims' send his stomach turning, but he understood what she was getting at; it was the same message Sigrun was telling him. Simatarians were oblivous or completely ignorant of the existance of vampires, thus making them easy prey. I'm suprised there isn't a few dozen vamps in the Golden Simatar.

As Lauralin explained vampire bloodlines, Todd was surprised anyone would willingly allow a vampire to feed from them. He was tempted to finish off his whiskey, but decided to hold on to it for any more suprises.

"Well...I guess you all can now figure out for yourselves by the way I act how my countrymen would act if a vampire was reported at home. I admit we are a bit....ignorant...which is why I am here. But, I guess one vampire in the Golden Simatar wouldn't hurt, so far no vampire related homocides have been reported...so I guess he hasn't been killing."

Todd paused for a few seconds, trying to collect his thoughts.

"I am a bit confused why you call being turned..'blessings of the darkness'. From my point of view at least, it seems like a bit of a curse rather than a blessing."

At that moment, Steele's assistant Tyro arrived via the elevator, a lovely serving girl on each arm. He was chatting animatedly with them, and they were obviously enthralled by his youthful good looks and witty banter. Steele smiled at him, beckoning him over. The younger man detached himself from the ladies, and came over at a jog. He bowed slightly to Paige, then looked at his boss, eagerness filling his eyes.

"I see yer taking care of business, boy...what KIND of business, no one knows..." Steele began.

"Sir! I've gotten key information on the guard schedules, general political climate, technology level and..."

"...and those girls phone numbers, I'm sure."

"...yes sir. Problem?" Tyro replied, color rising in his cheeks.

"Not for me...but watch yerself, and keep it in yer pants. Now...see that stunned looking man over there?" Steele indicated Todd, who had gone white and collapsed into a chair.

"He's yer age, and looks like he needs a friend...a human friend. Go over, make nice and get as much info as possible. We'll make you into an intelligence professional yet..."

"Sir, yes sir!" Tyro replied, all full of piss and vinegar and ready to do whatever his role demanded. He hurried over, leaving Steele with Paige.

"Lots of energy, lotsa brains too...sadly, his crotch determines his direction more often than not."

**********************************

Tyro approached the young man named Todd, noting the scratches on his cheek and the slight tremble in the hand holding his glass. Putting his most welcoming smile on his face, the young man sauntered into his field of vision, and stuck out a hand.

"Howdy, friend. My names Tyro, from Gawdly. You look like you could use a refill and I could use a shot or two myself...can I buy you a drink?"

(Whittleton watched as the servant walked away in a somewhat hurried fashion. He walked over to the conference hostess and said. "George Whittleton, the Ruskkie representative. I'm sorry to bother you, but is it alright to smoke?")

Konnie unconsciously wrinkled her nose at the mention of smoking. She did not particularly like the smell, and didn't smoke herself. When one had a life expectancy in the thousands of years, it was important not to spoil the lungs with such things.
"Smoke if you wish to, just be careful around the manuscripts. They are irreplaceable, and if you set one on fire, I'll see to it that you share its fate."

"Ah..." Whittleton replied, whilst letting go of the pipe in his pocket. "Well in that case, I think I'll pass for the time being. Old habits die hard, you see. Anyway, sorry again to have bothered you dear lady."

Whittleton then walked off to go and have a look at the documents laid out on the table.

Patricia smiled. "Do you have a raw pig? I think that would be rather nice." She grinned that jagged, yellow-toothed grin as she looked at the servant with those unspeakably hungry eyes.

Patricia then turned her gaze around the table to look at the other delegates. None of them had spoken to her as of yet. She folded her grey hands on the table and studied the interactions for now.

Sigrun spied another figure standing off to the side, watching the room with interest. He studied her appearance, which wasn't much, truth be told. Nevertheless, he walked closer and bowed respectfully.

"Greetings. I am Sigrun Greenwood. What brings you to this conference?"

(OOC: To TRD's Patricia)

Todd jumped slightly as Tyro appeared in front of him, he was still slightly shaken from what Sigrun and Sasha had told him. He reached out and shook the man's hand.

"Todd Harte, the Golden Simatar. I am quiet fine, but thanks. Here, try some of this stuff."

Todd asked for another glass and poured Tyro some of the Firebrand.

"Flint Firebrand, burns like napalm. You gulp it, you might burn out your throat."

OOC: I thought Sigrun had taken that Firebrand away? Oh well, I guess we can just assume that Todd got it back after Sigrun went to talk to Patricia. Then again...Sasha is still nearby it... *grin*

Actually, it was quite a lot to look at it. It just wasn't pretty. A Redcap's appearance has almost as strong an effect on most sentients as a Sidhe's, just not the same effect. Patricia was scary. She wasn't just ugly. She was a monster, a nightmare, the kind of thing children imagine under their beds or in their closets late at night. Her eyes burned with a hungry glare no matter what or who she looked at. One very easily, and very accurately, might have gotten the impression that her primary thought towards any given person or object was how it would taste were she consuming it at the moment. Still, she smiled to Sigrun, that same jagged, yellow-toothed hungry smile. "I'm Patricia, MP from the Danaan High Kingdom. I'm here to talk about vampires or some shit like that. So, you a Noldor or somethin' like that? You;re pretty bloody short for one, I'll give you that much."

Tyro accepted the drink, throwing it back without heeding Todd's words of warning. Minutes later, once he had regained his vision and the room stopped spinning, he attempted to speak through his alcohol-scarred throat.

"That...that was GREAT! Woohoo, boyo...where can I get me some of that?" Tyro quipped, settling into a chair next to Todd, feeling the sweat drying on his forehead. His stomach settled, he looked over at the other young man.

"I see that some of the guests are getting feisty," Tyro noted, indicating the scratches on Todd's cheek. He spoke in a lowered tone. "Brother, you gotta avoid letting the bloodsuckers get a taste of you...it may give them ideas when they get the midnight munchies, y'know?" He reached into his utility vest, and pulled out a small device the size of a button. Handing it over to Todd, Tyro simultaneously reached for the small bottle of booze, pouring himself another shot.

"That is the latest tech from our labs...it emits a high-spectrum signal that seems to bother a vamp to no end...wear it on your collar, the field of effect is less than 6 inches. That should keep 'em back, if necessary. A little insurance never hurt anyone, right?"

With a smile, he lifted the glass, once again emptying the contents. The fire that burned his throat matched the wave of euphoria that hit his pleasure center. Suddenly, he completely understood the expression "shit-eating grin."

Chinking her glass with Steele’s and echoing the toast, Paige took a long sip of her drink. She looked back at the main group, a lot of whom seemed to have begun discussing various topics already. Her gaze rested on the new arrival before falling back on Darius, unsure what to make of the man’s declaration, but even she did not have to be an expert to know that the arrival of the last guest was something special.

“Shall we take our seats, now that the entertainment seems to have started?” She cast her gaze to the newest arrival, the man who had exited the lift, and was now making an exhibition of himself. “I’m really looking forward to learning some new things during this meeting, and perhaps making some new connections…” She let the sentence hang as she smiled, before taking another slow sip of her drink, before turning and heading to her seat.


[ooc: sorry for the delay, Gawdly.]

She walked in, more than fashionably late, smiling at some private joke from earlier. Her robes were black, flowing, and covered with arcane designs made of a strangely reflective red thread. Anyone who studied the designs would be puzzled, as they seemed to be changing as the robe flowed and moved to unseen and unfelt forces. And yet, despite the robe being long enough one could not see her feet, the woman wearing it never seemed to trip.

With her height at an even two meters, she would have easily stood out in the room. And yet a strange aura of power seemed to surround her, almost pulsing in the same rhythm as her heart. And her eyes, appearing to glow if one saw looked at them indirectly, held one's attention and almost felt as though they were peering into your soul and reading your innermost secrets. And her flowing black hair that stopped in the middle of her back only added to the vision all beheld, though her hands were kept in their sleeves for some reason.

She paused as she looked around, briefly unsure as to who to approach first...

Todd tried to stop Tyro, but leaned back and enjoyed the man's expressions as he downed the volitile drink.

"Careful, too much at one time will make you blind. If you ever go to the Golden Simatar, about ninty minutes out of Clarence is a small town called Flint. Only place in the world you can get this napalm."

Todd looked at Tyro, the small device he had given him, before handing it back.

"Thank you very much man, but I don't think I will need it. I keep a can of mace with me at all times. Plus, I don't think any vampire would try to nibble on me. She was just doing it to...."

Todd's voice trailed off as he stared at the newcomer. Wow.. He stood, patted Tyro on the back and approached the woman. Todd bowed and smiled politly to her.

"Hello there ma'am. I'm Todd Harte."

Sigrun shook his head negatively at Patricia's remark. "I am not Noldor, but they are distant cousins. As for my height, your sense of perception must be slightly off. Although I am slightly shorter than Noldorians, it is not by much. This perhaps may be attributed to my history, and how I came to be."

He glanced to the newcomer briefly, then turned back to Patricia,

"Tell me...what did you know of vampires before coming here?"

“Shall we take our seats, now that the entertainment seems to have started?” She cast her gaze to the newest arrival, the man who had exited the lift, and was now making an exhibition of himself. “I’m really looking forward to learning some new things during this meeting, and perhaps making some new connections…” She let the sentence hang as she smiled, before taking another slow sip of her drink, before turning and heading to her seat.


He agreed immediately, echoing her thoughts and pleasantly surprised that Paige was thinking the exact same things he had been...Steele filed that away for a later time. After escorting her to a seat, the big man excused himself and began moving towards the main group of delegates. He stopped briefly where Tyro and Todd were sitting, pausing long enough to introduce himself and remind his young assistant that he was on the job. He walked on, letting his subconcious guide him to wherever it may.

The guest that stood before him was of an unforgettable nature, a personage of great strength and dark mystery, one who would haunt the dreams of whoever crossed his path. There was unfinished business with this one, though he was not aware. Steele didn't bother putting out his hand to greet him, knowing that the creature's cloven-hands prevented this simplest of humanoid greetings. Instead, he pulled out a small cigar case, and removed one. Steele wet the tip, then placed it in his mouth. Leaning over, he spoke quietly.

"Kain. You look...well. We need to talk, at your earliest convenience, of course." Before the vampire could reply, Steele pointed at his cigar and smiled, for he knew what was to come.

"Got a light?"

She looked him over briefly before saying, "Hello, Mr. Harte. I am Ilkanas Soyvakot of the DemonLordEnigma Empire. I'm the expert on vampires they decided to send along to present our views and findings. I hope I am not too late to do such, as our timescale is different from the one in the invitation."

She extended her right hand in greeting, revealing it to be covered in the same symbols as her robes, the symbols shifting in a synchronized pattern. The result is her hand appearing to be shimmering and shifting, though to the touch it was quite solid and firm. Her smile widened a bit, revealing the tips of the elongated fangs that were the mark of her vampirism.

"Perhaps you can help me make introductions?" she asked.

Lauralin deftly and with preternatural speed snatched the button from Tyro and leaned forward her floor length, flame red, silken hair flowing forward and her bright emerald green eyes locking onto his.

"Just so you know Mr. Tyro", she said in a soft voice, her breath brushing his cheek, "there are many major arteries in the human body. She gently laid the button on his thigh and squeezed it lightly, "Some in places that a man wouldn't mind seeing a woman."

She straightened up, breaking her eye contact and then turned to look at the new arrival.

Actually, it was quite a lot to look at it. It just wasn't pretty. A Redcap's appearance has almost as strong an effect on most sentients as a Sidhe's, just not the same effect. Patricia was scary. She wasn't just ugly. She was a monster, a nightmare, the kind of thing children imagine under their beds or in their closets late at night. Her eyes burned with a hungry glare no matter what or who she looked at. One very easily, and very accurately, might have gotten the impression that her primary thought towards any given person or object was how it would taste were she consuming it at the moment. Still, she smiled to Sigrun, that same jagged, yellow-toothed hungry smile. "I'm Patricia, MP from the Danaan High Kingdom. I'm here to talk about vampires or some shit like that. So, you a Noldor or somethin' like that? You;re pretty bloody short for one, I'll give you that much."

As reality faded back in, Tyro realized he was sitting alone, an empty glass dangling from his fingers. For a moment, he thought an angel had been rubbing his thigh, whispering erotica into his ear. He shook his head, immediately regretting the sudden movement. When his balance returned, he took stock of himself, realizing that his inhibitor had been working overtime to rid his body of the alcohol that had flooded it. Whatever he drank had exceeded the factory specs, that was for sure. His vision clearing, the young man looked around for his assignment, noticing him speaking with a stunningly beautiful, raven-haired goddess.

Ok, plan two. Find some other interesting target, and work it for info. Tyro glanced around, his eyes coming to rest on a monster. A big, ugly monster. Bigger than Steele, and Steele was big. Tyro blinked, hoping this was just a booze-fueled nightmare come to life, to no avail. Well, at least the boss would see that he wasn't shirking his duties. Standing, he straightened the hem of his coat, cleared his throat and stepped towards the creature. Looking up....way, way up...the young man hesitantly put out his hand.

"G-good evening...I'm um...well, see it's just...um...Tyro, that's it, I'm Tyro. Um. Hi?"

Todd smiled and shook her hand. He quickly noticed the tips of her fangs, but didn't flinch as he would have normally.

"Pleasure to meet you Ms. Soyvakot, you can just call me Todd. Well, so far I have been getting my brain fried and nearly getting a heart attack because I have learned many startling facts about vampires and my own country. We haven't advanced far I guess. I'll be more than happy to help start you off."

Todd turned and lead Ilkanas over to Lauralin.

"Ms. lkanas Soyvakot of DemonLordEnigma, this is Queen Lauralin Silverlief of DragonsReach."

"It is a pleasure to meet you, madam. I hope we can be of use to each other."

She looked the other over, assessing the one before her. This one could be a potential danger if a fight started. But, she wasn't here for that...

"Perhaps we can get together later and discuss what you know of the vampiric problem."

Laura curtseyed and smiled, her own fangs, as yet, retracted into thier gum sheaths. "It is a pleasure to meet you, though, I am afraid that I was not granted the honor of your name?"

She pushed hair back over her shoulders, the flame red, silken strand sliding back to and an inch above the floor of her five foot five frame. Her eyes locked onto those of the woman and her own sorcerous powers tingled at the presence of the magic about the woman, flames dancing for a moment over her fingers and hands. In an effort to hide what might be a perceived threat that was not intentional she gripped her hands behind her back, unfortunatley making her rather large chest more pronounced.

"I am Ilkanas Soyvakot of DemonLordEnigma. Degrees in viral physics with a specialization in supermutagens and a focus on the Sakarasetan Vampiric Virus. I'm trying to solve the 'gift' an old boyfriend gave me one year," Ilkanas replied.

Ilkanas wondered, briefly, if she should try to disguise her fangs. Unlike some vampires, she couldn't retract them at all and they stayed as a reminder of what she was. The one thing that lightened the impact of them among Sarkarasetans was how many people had elongated canines, a trait once thought recessive and now known to be both dominant and a leftover from some distant ancestor. But they typically didn't have the fangs long enough to reach halfway to the lower gum. Nor did they have the other traits...

Ilkanas considered Lauralin for a few moments. She wasn't sensing any power from the matriarch, but Ilkanas had always had trouble with that. Apparently, her own aura overburdened her own senses in that area. But, Ilkanas had another reason for being interested in Lauralin, one that would remain silent for now.

"Perhaps we can get together later and chat. We may be able to help each other..."

"Of course, I would be happy to. I have been researching the same thing you have, just not from your aspect. I have been focusing on the link to the negative material plane for now. I think I have theory on how to disengage it but so far it has proven impossible. I have yet to focus on the fact that the body cannot sustain itself if it is severed from the power that keeps it going. Have you been able to look into that matter as yet?"

"Negative Energy Plane? Never heard of it. We have yet to document all of the planes beyond the Material and Astral, but so far we get the idea the number may be infinite. You and I appear to have different types of vampirism. In my case, it's a mutated virus caused by my species sudden evolution about a century ago. For us, it alters the body's DNA but leaves us perfectly alive. The blood requirement is, we think, a side-effect of the genetic alterations. But, without blood, those of us infected with SVV become feral. The results are not pretty. The same person who demonstrated the feral aspect also demonstrated the virus can infect humans, so we don't know how many of those on Earth are infected with our form and how many with the native forms."

She paused for a moment before continuing, saying, "But, vampirism is a problem, no matter the type. Maybe if we can find a cure to one, we can cure them all."

"I am not sure that it would be so simple, but curing one would certainly be a step in the right direction. Vampirism takes many forms. Not all feed on blood, not all are human or fully human in appearance, but I would like to find a cure. So you were born this way?

"Me? No. But I know some who have had the virus their entire lives. I've had the virus since I was in my twenties, and I can tell you that the change is the most painful one I have ever experienced."

Lauralin nodded, "How did you get it? Is it passed on in the same manner as other vampires?"

"In a variety of ways. We're not sure how the inheritted form works, as it is a virus. But it can be transfered through bodily fluids, meaning it can be transferred sexually as well. And then there is the virus it mutated from, which had already infected thousands of people. It took us three decades to sort out and track down all of the ways the virus spreads and who is and who isn't infected. In my case, it was from certain scratches he got one day, and I do not wish to explain further."

Sasha approached the other two vampiresses and listened as they conversed of a cure for their 'gifts'. She sighed slightly as she approached, nodding to Lauralin, and introducing herself to the other.

"Hello, I am Sasha Fraker, Underworld Council leader of Tarlachia."

A pale hand extended in offering to Ilkanas.

"As for curing vampirism, I rather like this state of existence. I find it...most beneficial in many ways. I do not seek a cure, nor I discourage one to be found. We all know that there are those in this world that were given the gift against their will, and so they hate it to this day."

___________________________

Sigrun acknowledged Tyro's presence and greeted him. "You ought to get rid of that little...device you have, for it will do you no good. As I heard the Lady Lauralin's words, I couldn't help but laugh to myself of such a pitiful excuse of a defense. Mind you, I do not insult you, but rather the creator's shortsightedness with such a device. As far as I'm concerned, there will be no feeding from any mortal by any moonwalker. At least not from Sasha. I cannot guarantee your safety from the others, but I can give you a pretty good assurance that they will not likely do anything to the effect without the victim's consent."

"Be careful, Sir", Ferrannifer said to Sigrun, "meaning no disrespect but consent can be given without the acceptance of the individual. More appropriatly it should be stated that they will not likely do anything without willful consent. Charms can be used to consent, after all, but it would still be against thier will. That may not mean a great deal to vampire, but as I'm sure you know, it makes a great deal of difference to the mortal world."

"That is true. Vampires do have a tendancy to use their charms to make their meals easier to catch, or those they wish to mark." Sigrun replied. He turned his head toward where the host was standing and questioned the others,

"I wonder when her little conference will begin? It still appears that there is no official start to this whole meeting just yet. I'm sure she's got an organized plan to get this coference under way."

He turned back to the others, "Back to the subject at hand, as for obtaining the consent of an individual, I know both sides of the coin personally, so to speak..."

"Yes I know", Ferrannifer replied and left it at that.

"No answer as to if a Holy Knight might be allowed to these proceedings", she stated out loud.

"Greetings, Miss Sasha. Part of my research is in hopes of controlling the spread of vampirism in my own nation without the extreme measures we are currently taking. Then, perhaps we can decide what to do with the virus as it is."

"I understand that some do not wish to be rid of it. But some do and some go insane because they wish to have back the life that was stripped from them. I took the dark gift willingly, but I do not wish to keep it. It was only way to resolve the conflict at the time."

As Todd walked off to greet the new arrival, Konnie a short distance behind. She extended a gloved hand to the vampiress,
"Hello, I am Konnie Hariku, high magus of the Society for the Study of Supernatural Beings and hostess of this event. With whom do I have the pleasure of speaking?"

As she spoke, she noted Ferranifer's question and responded via telepathy.
A Holy Knight would be permitted to attend so long as they swore not to slay any of our vampiric guests.

Konnie saw, out of the corner of her eye, a pier of servants enter, delivering the last of the texts and setting up an auto-recorder to archive the information that would hopefully be gathered. She smiled inwardly, knowing things were almost ready. All that remained was for the conference's financial sponsor, Lady Alexandra Lucius, to arrive and it would begin.

Patricia glanced at the lady from DemonLordEnigma, Ilkanas Soyyvakot, for a long moment. She was quite impressive, almost like a Sidhe. Of course, Patricia bore no love for Sidhe but still…nice to look at.

The Redcap smirked to Sigrun. “Vampires are perhaps the only other race in the world who know hunger as we do. That is basis enough for a sense of kinship. Besides that, most Danaan scholars believe vampires to have descended from a group of Redcaps who forgot themselves. But that is merely common belief, of course.”

Patricia then smiled that same disgusting smile to Tyron. “Hi, Tyron, I’m Patricia.” She extended a grey, clawed hand, palm down as though expecting him to kiss it. “Nice to meet you.”

Patricia arched a brow slightly at Sigrun’s words on vampires and consent. “I suppose that is the law of such things in the modern world. Still…one cannot help be nostalgic for the age of the real hunt.”

Todd had excused himself when the conversation among the vampiresses turned to getting consent from thier victim before feeding. He walked back to his chair, sat down and began to type up notes from what he had been hearing. He was glad that Ilkanas also firmly believed vampirism was a virus like he did.

As he typed his notes, he kept wondering if he would be called insane by his peers once he got home. He stopped typing when he heard Ferrannifer announce something called the Holy Knight.

Todd turned around and looked at her.

"What is a Holy Knight?"

"One who fights for his religion, unlike a priest. At least, not to the extent of one. More powerful in some ways. This particular one is an avatar of his god as well."

She turned toward Konnie, "He's already made that vow, he wanted to make sure it was alright first. Can I summon him?"

Todd was still slightly confused over why they would need a Knight at a conference.

"May I ask why you would want a knight to come..and what is an avatar?"

"A Knight fights that which opposes thier diety's view. In this case, his diety is of protection. Law and good. Many believe that vampires, all vampires that is, are evil. Therefore we have can have the opinion, or at least long held belief, of one who has saught out that which is evil and destroyed it. In this case he is also an avatar. That means that he's the incarnate representation of his god on this plane. Now it also means that his presence is a bit uncomfortable for those like me, but I thought a counter point to our opinions would be good to hear."

Todd sat in his seat, slighlty confused by what Ferrannifer was saying. He sat there for several seconds before nodding, though most of what she said went over his head.

"Right, I will take your word for it."

Rooting through his suitcase, Todd found two more small bottle of Firebrand. Share the wealth. He opened the one he already had out and poured himself some. He looked up at everyone.

"Would anyone like to try some drinkable napalm, otherwise known as Flint Firebrand?"

Ferrannifer reached out a hand to take a glass, "What's napalm?"

Todd poured Ferrannifer some of the Firebrand.

"Sip it gently, one at a time...unless you feel like burning your throat. Napalm is something our Air Force and many others use. It basically is advanced Greek fire, delievered via fighter-bomber onto a target. Once the canister breaks open, the fire cuts a large swath of death and destruction. Whatever it touches it burns and keeps burning. Dunking yourself in water only makes it worse from what I have heard."

He handed her a glass of the amber colored liquid. A small smile crossed his face.

"Like napalm, this stuff burns out your throat in a snap. Clears up your sinuses too. Remember, don't gulp...just sip and it is enjoyable."

Ferrannifer quickly, but carefully put down the glass and snatched her hand away. "Fire", she mumbled, "mortals get more insane each decade", and she stepped away from Todd, keeping a close eye on him.

Todd raised an eyebrow as he stared at Ferrannifer. He sipped some of the Firebrand and looked at her.

"Something wrong ma'am..did I say or do anything to offend you?"

Sasha narrowed her eyes when she heard conversation about a Holy Knight. She remembered the reports of Inquisitor activity against vampires in other nations long ago, but lately their activities had dimmed. Nevertheless, they were still present, and still a threat to any moonwalker that stalked the night.

She turned to watch as Ferrannifer accepted the drink from Todd, but then put it down. She shook her head as she heard her muttering about fire.

"Fire. One of the things that can kill a vampire, if applied correctly." she said to Todd.

Ilkanas smiled at Lauralin's comment. Today, Ilkanas was turning sixty-one years of age, and yet she barely looked a year older than she was when the virus had been given to her. And she remembered her meeting with Orbez, the daughter of the First Sarkarasetan Vampire, who was said to be over a century old and yet still appeared to be in her teens, the virus having set in when she reached maturity. As a people, none of the Sarkarasetan vampires ever aged, their cells stuck at a certain period of life due to a simple virus and its magically-caused mutation.

"None of us who have in DLE asked for this virus to happen. Nor did we choose to have it bestowed on us. Despite the fact we have since been recognized as a separate subspecies, we are forever cut off from all aspects of our society just because we are diseased. If there were another nation of Sarkarasetans, we would go there. But there are none, so we have nowhere we can go. And attempting to survive on our own is foolish. Hell, the fact DLE has survived this long is a miracle."

She turned to Konnie and said, "I am Ilkanas Soyvakot of DemonLordEnigma. I was sent here to represent the unusual type of vampires that have popped up in our nation and hope the similarities between our type of vampirism and others is close enough a cure to one will lead to cures to others. In our case, it is a matter of import that we do so."

Then, Ilkanas bowed a decline to Todd's offer, having found alcohol to be discouraging in its affects upon her.

Todd looked at Sasha, then back at Ferrannifer. His eyes widened as he realised his mistake.

"Oh...I am terribly sorry if you misunderstood me. We just call this stuff napalm because if you gulp it or drink in great amounts, your body starts to feel like it is burning. I did not mean to scare you...I am terribly sorry. I mean you no harm."

Ferrannifer nodded toward Todd, "Then none taken", she said guardedly.

Lauralin giggled lightly, trying to stifle a laugh.

"Yeah YOU think it's funny, you don't have to worry about fire", Ferrannifer said to her.

"I am sorry. It just struck me as amusing. I mean, in our nation everyone knows that", Lauralin replied.

"If you think fire is bad, try a Planet Killing Ion Storm. We make a drink called that. It's good for getting drunk, degreasing engines, and disposing of hazardous lifeforms. A bit like it's namesake."

"You've all gone mad!" Sasha declared, shaking her head almost sympathetically. She looked up, her eyes flashing crimson red momentarily before turning black once more. "I'll just stick with this."

She held up her flask of draconic blood, it's dark, rich liquid sloshing about inside, only audible to those with enhanced hearing. "Draconic blood, difficult to obtain, but quite worth the drink...It is almost as potent as demonic blood, of which I've yet to taste for myself."

She glanced at those who were vampires and spoke, "I offer you all a sip, to highlight this conference..."

Sigrun chuckled as he connected with Kain's mind and spoke, Remember when you were beginning to teach me how to harness the arcane? You gave me a taste of demonic blood then.

Sigrun watched Sasha offer her blood supply to the other vampires in the room.

Lauralin looked at Sasha quizzically, "What does it mean? Eye on storm? I do not understand."

OOC: Sasha isn't the one who offered the Ion drink... Ilkanas was.

"An ion storm is a bit like a thunderstorm, only in space. And, unlike a thunderstorm, it's much bigger. Sometimes, they get big enough to destroy small planets. I think I'll try some. We have dragons in DLE, but we never get to drink their blood."

She enjoyed the drink, finding it strangely soothing and invigorating at the same time. Something inside her stirred for a moment, and bits of memory flashed through her mind too quick for her to see. That had never happened before...

(OOC: Sorry for the mistake.)

Lauralin tried to imagine a storm of that size and just couldn't wrap her mind around it. As they spoke of dragon's blood she looked up, "We too have Dragons. In fact Dragonsreach is called such because the older ones tend to settle in that area. Hot springs in the mountains nearby are soothing to them. Of course I would not ever even consider drinking of thier blood, but then we have pacts with them. They let us live in thier territory and we mutually protect each other."

Sasha replied to Lauralin, "Don't get me wrong. We do not kill the dragons in Tarlachia either. They are considered citizens, and occassionally gift my kind with small samples of their blood for some reason or another."

She held the flask up to her, "Again, would you like a taste? It is most satisfying, I assure you."

Lauralin smiled at Sasha and took some of the proffered blood. "Thank you", she said, "You are welcome to some of mine, though from what you say you my not find it satisfying. We, in Dragonsreach, link to first race we feed from, in my case Drow. Any other is nourishing but lacks the pleasurable flavor that we have linked to."

Sasha nodded respectfully, "Of course." she said as she accepted Lauralin's own Drow blood and brought it to her lips. Slowly the dark liquid seeped between her lips and pooled on her tongue. She closed her eyes, focusing her taste buds on the blood, savoring its rich taste. She smiled at long last, and swallowed the blood. When she opened her eyes to look at Lauralin, her eyes had changed to crimson red irises.

"Blood of any species is nourishing and pleasurable on many different levels. I've heard that demonic blood is among the most potent and pleasurably intoxicating nourishments for our kind."

"This world holds many surprises. I thought my ancesters exterminated the Drau. Damned insectoids. Still, I can see how they can be useful. I will admit that in DLE we do kill dragons. But that is because the dragons tend to be tougher than warships and have a bad habit of just doing what they please, even if it endangers lives. That is part of why we do not get along with them as well. But, the creatures do have their uses. One of them is to remind magicians that they are not immortal just because they can cast a spell. It serves to balance out, in its own way."

"I would not know about that, I have not tried it myself. Ferrannifer says that it can be most potent. She has tried that of several different demons and one or two devils, though the blood of devils ...."

"Can alter you", Ferrannifer finished, "and certainly isn't for fledglings such as yourself my dark daughter."

Lauralin nodded, "I can believe it, since the blood of vampires have different properties and rather potent unto itself."

Ferrannifer nodded, "Perhaps I should try it on you one day. You may even turn evil. Gods know that I've failed to do so."

"Dragons can very difficult, I agree. The ones in Dragonsreach are off limits. There are others throughout the lands and no such limitations are held to them." She removed her red scabbard with 'silverlief' written down it's length. "This, for instance, was made from the scales of a red dragon." The handle was not ornate and wrapped in leather that looked worn from use. The blade, if drawn, is inscribed with magical runes.

Sigrun turned back to Patricia. "My apologies for my distraction. What were we talking about?"

He paused for a moment then continued, "Ah yes, the thrill of hunting. I quite enjoyed those hunts at times back when I was still bound to the tentacles of the night. Since my death however, I have not engaged in such a hunt, nor is it required anymore."

Patricia looked at him quizzically. Sigrun answered her unspoken troubling question, "Yes. I said death. I have died once, but my spirit was preserved by natural laws of existence. In time, with the help of some others, I was able to construct a new physical form drawing from the lineage of my elven heritage. When I was a vampire, I looked not like an elf, but I had their magical abilities, but only after discovering my lineage, and pursuing my studies in the arcane. The elven lineage was my stronger lineage, and thus it was easier to form a physical shape off the DNA present."

Patricia nodded. "That's pretty weird." She commented off-handedly. "So you're a vampire-elf like Queen Laura and the rest of them? Does that mean you can only drink from Elves?"

Sigrun shook his head negatively, "No. I apologize for not being clear. I was once a human vampire, able to drink from any species. However, in a battle with one enemy of mine, my life was ended. For a year, I was gone from this plane of existence. Friends and enemies alike thought me to be dead for good. However, I returned, as a complete elf. The vampiric traits no longer are with me, for they remain with my old, long dead body. My foe had decapitated my body as well, which was another reason I could not return to the old form."

(She turned to Konnie and said, "I am Ilkanas Soyvakot of DemonLordEnigma. I was sent here to represent the unusual type of vampires that have popped up in our nation and hope the similarities between our type of vampirism and others is close enough a cure to one will lead to cures to others. In our case, it is a matter of import that we do so.")

Konnie arched an eyebrow at the mention of a cure.
"Hmm, most interesting. I can't say I have ever heard of any means to cure vampirism, but then again, if your version is caused by a virus, I suppose it would be possible. The vampires in Akaton tend to be of the undead variety, curing them of their 'gift' would only make them into corpses. But if your people are interested in such a cure, I will make our resources available to help you in your search."

Konnie laughed slightly at Ferranifer's mention of demonic blood.
"A few years back, during the Demonic Invasion, the blood of demons was pretty easy to come by. Of course, back then it was commonly thought the stuff was poisonous to drink. As for the matter of the holy knight, feel free to summon him."

Konnie glanced towards the elevator impatiently, wondering for a moment whether Lady Alexandra had forgotten to come. Just then, the elevator doors slid open and the noble in question, a vampire, stepped into the room.
Speak of the Devil, Konnie spoke in Alexandra's mind.
And the Devil appears, came her response.

Alexandra, or rather High Lady Alexandra Lucius to be precise, came dressed in her usual strapless gown of black silk. It flowed with her movements, trailing along behind her though never actually touched the ground. Her hair was of a medium length, its smooth strands the color of pure silver falling half way down her back. Like most vampires, she was unnaturally pale, with skin that was cold to the touch. A pair of fangs occasionally slipped into view behind bright red lips, removing any possible doubt of her vampiric nature. She was quite attractive by human standards and deceptively young in appearance. She moved with a fluid grace, almost seeming to glide across the stone floor of the conference room. She knew Konnie well, and the two were relatively close, though the fact that Alexandra personally financed the research tended to mandate a relationship slightly different than friendship.

Konnie turned to the group, addressing them as a whole.
"Ladies and gentleman, I present to you the guest of honor, High Lady Alexandra Lucius, regent of Akaton. She is sponsoring this conference, and now that she is here, we can begin. Would anyone like to present an issue for debate?"

Lauralin and Ferrannifer both curtseyed.

"It is a pleasure to meet you", Lauralin said to her.

Ferrannifer turned to Konnie, "I'll just step over into the hallway to summon him." Once Laura finished she turned to Alexandra, "Greetings, and well met."

Ferrannifer went into the hallway and cast her summoning spell.

As soon as the man stepped through the portal he could be felt. His power flowed from him even banked as it was making no mistake that he would be a lethal opponent. When he stepped into room, followed by Ferrannifer, who even though she was used to him winced when he came through, he held his hands outward in a sign gesture of peace. Though he still had his sword, a holy artifact crafted by the hand of his own god, he wore no armor. If this was to show that he wasn't it threat then it did little good. The the vampires they felt the waves of power that flowed from him and the sword itself let out its own. If unsheathed it would be barely tolerable if at all. To those who weren't it was still clear that he was a man not easily dealt with.

He wore only a course wool shirt, worn leather pants and worn leather boots. His face, upper chest and upper arms looked as though the skin had once been melt some and had even run. Two predominant scars were on the left side of his face, one from just behind his temple to his jaw and another from just behind his right ear to his jaw that had severed his left earlobe. Scars were everywhere on what flesh could be seen. Most were from shallow cuts, though many had been deeper. His hair is iron grey and his eyes a glacial blue. Though obviously of some years he has thick corded muscles that even relaxed are predominant.

He bowed politely as he entered and Ferrannifer stepped around him and into the room. "This is King Turquine Buccannah", she said "of High port and this", she said, gesturing to Alexandra, "is High Lady Alexandra Lucius, the regent of Akaton and sponsor of this event."

Turquine stepped forward. If he was nervous being a Holy Knight among so many vampires he didn't show it. He gently took Alexandra's hand in has calloused one and brought it to his lips, kissing it lightly. "An honor Lady."

"Can we classify the types of vampirism in a semi-official capacity? It would help to have classifications to work with."

She shifted a bit, wondering. Was this the right idea? How would the Dictator act about her doing this? Those and many more questions seemed to swell at this point...

Patricia glanced to Alexandra, whatever reply she had to Sigrun trailing off as she moved her gaze towards the ruler of Akaton.

Todd sat quietly as the conversation switched to dragons and thier blood. He opened his book and stared at the picture of Stephen Malone. Vampire...in the Golden Simatar? Na...then again.. He turned back to the page where he had left off and kept reading.

He looked up as a striking woman entered the room. Todd was cemented to his seat for several seconds before putting his book down and standing up. As he stared at her , he noticed the tips of the fangs underneath her lips for a few seconds.

When Turquine stepped into the room, Todd guessed before Ferrannifer introduced him he was the Holy Knight.

Todd turned as Ilkanas proposed her idea.

"Sounds good to me, make life a whole lot easier while we are here."

(OOC Sorry for posting so late, I have things to do at the moment which tend to take my attentions away from such fast moving threads. Just assume that I have been participating until this point by being quiet and listening to others and following actions etc. I will state what Kain has and has not done in specific now.)

As Steele extended his cigar, Kain performed the same cantrip that he had performed last time. He opened his palm outwards, and elevated calmly above it was a small flume of flame, which ignited the cigar with elegent control. Kain considered taking out his own cigar, but thought better of it at the moment. He was about to sample some of this dragon blood.

"What breed of dragon is this blood? What colour." Kain asked, as he smelt the scent of the blood which was presented to him. The blood was indeed like demonic blood, although without that otherworldly scent which he himself carried in a very subtle way. The dragon blood was however, still as vibrant, alluring and exotic as the demonic blood in scent, and to look upon. Kain decided that to him, demonic blood had a better scent to it, but then he thought, this might not be universal, due to the blood in his viens, he might find demonic blood more appealing than any other. Some speculation came into his mind about what blood vampire would prefer if they are of a different breed. Perhaps vampires wanted blood as close to thier own kind as possible, so a vampire who was human would want human blood, or at least find it more alluring than say and elf who was turned.

Kain for the most part was quiet during this meeting, listening to others, not adding his own points. He seemed to be in quiet reflection of things, absorbing what others had to say. Others knew this was his way, he did not like large amounts of people. He prefered small gatherings of individuals, where power struggles wer enot so evident, and small talk and banter were less apparent. Kain was hardly the best socialiser.


"

Steele was not surprised by Kain's lack of acknowledgement, as he had met the vampire enough times to realize that this was his way. He was rewarded when Shentavo did his magic, a flame appearing to dance in his hand. Kain did not seem to be talkative, so Steele did not push the issue.

Shrugging, he turned back to the group, realizing that the bloodsuckers in the room outnumbered the humans...the prey...3 to 1. Not great odds, at the best of times. Still, there was a flag of peace flying over this conference, and the danger shopuld be at a minimum. Still, the reflex action for a hunter was to hunt...

Steele strolled away from Kain as Turquine entered the room. A smile split the big security man's face as he saw the King, a man he truly respected, a man who he would love to have covering his back in battle and the husband-to-be of someone very important to him. He stepped over to where they stood, bowing slightly to Laura.

"King Turquine...well met, friend. I'd thought you'd be on a honeymoon by now...how is Tanis?"

****************************************

Tyro looked at the outstretched claw, the dry, grey skin mottled and wrinkled and smelling vaguely of rotting meat. Unsure of what was expected, he reached out and grasped, bending over to kiss it tentatively. The taste reminded him of wet socks. Lifting his head slightly, he attempted a smile up at the massive creature.

"Uhm...so...may I be so forward as to inquire about your home? I have never seen a...being...such as yourself before...do you have vampires on your planet?" the young man regretted his words immediately, realizing that Patricia could indeed be a vampire herself...they came in many different forms.

Whittlwton said out loud to anyone who has listening. "If anyone is interested, I have with me extensive information on Vampires WHICH might come in useful. Though most of it covers the Vampire Wars and the resultant Great Vampire Purge."

"In what form?" Kain asked flatly, his head not turned to the one who had asked it. He was currently etching the ring in his right ear, a ring which was actually designed for a normal finger.

The ring was made of a dark green metal, which had runes similar to the ones on his robes. Evidently, Kain had wanted to keep the ring on his person, but obviously had not been able to wear it as it should have been due to his talon hands. The ring seemed not too special, at least not in enchantment. Perhaps it was more for it's memories, or personal value than anything else.

"King Turquine...well met, friend. I'd thought you'd be on a honeymoon by now...how is Tanis?"

Turquine smiled and took Steele's hand in a warm handshake. "Well we've yet to bury our honored dead. That will take place once we've returned from this conference. Many have come to pay thier respects. We've decided that the ceremony and interment will be held in the traditional manner. After the honoring of the dead may the marriage take place. As for how she is", he said smiling, "she's a vision from a dream come to reality."

"Can we classify the types of vampirism in a semi-official capacity? It would help to have classifications to work with."

Lauralin nodded, "I think you have a very good point. For one we can divide viral living and undead into two categories. I think that would be a start, Yes?"

Whittlwton said out loud to anyone who has listening. "If anyone is interested, I have with me extensive information on Vampires WHICH might come in useful. Though most of it covers the Vampire Wars and the resultant Great Vampire Purge."

Ferrannifer shuddered as she turned toward the man. "Purge? You mean genocide?"

((OOC: Apologies for the lateness/absence))

Kaede looked up from the manuscript that she had seemed absorbed in - she had to hide her amusement at Todd's strange discomfort in a room full of vampires somehow. She inhaled slightly, gently sniffing the scent of the Dragon blood Sasha had proffered. "Your offer is most gracious. If I may?"
She accepted the blood and daintily drank a sip, letting the energies swirl on her tongue, creating a vague image of the magnificant creature who had donated it in her mind.

She was still deciphering the energy pattern of the Dragon's blood and admiring its deep if unusual taste when Connie introduced the Lady Alexandra. Kaede inclined her head deeply in the Ruler of Akaton's direction before looking up.

She felt a surge of energy as yet another person entered. The attendees of this conference were getting more diverse by the minute. She glanced back down at the manuscript as she listened keenly to the various conversations, tones, and silences floating around the room. Things certainly had the potential to be quite interesting - in one way or another.

Turquine smiled and took Steele's hand in a warm handshake. "Well we've yet to bury our honored dead. That will take place once we've returned from this conference. Many have come to pay thier respects. We've decided that the ceremony and interment will be held in the traditional manner. After the honoring of the dead may the marriage take place. As for how she is", he said smiling, "she's a vision from a dream come to reality."

The taller man nodded in agreement, enjoying the strong clasp of the warrior-King. He was about to reply when he noticed the beautiful, silver-haired vampire. He had been so pleased to see Turquine that he hadn’t noticed her arrival, though it had been recorded automatically. Steele shook his head slightly…why was every gorgeous woman he met always a bloodsucker? Speaking of which…

Lauralin nodded, "I think you have a very good point. For one we can divide viral living and undead into two categories. I think that would be a start, Yes?"

“A good start, m’Lady, and one that I am personally very interested in. Viral research is the direction my team has been leaning, and our early results have been…interesting. Still, all we’ve been discussing so far are the physical implications of Vampirism….should we not also consider the psychological possibilities as well? People who willingly seek out the disease, who want the powers that go along with it…dangerous individuals.”

Steele paused, then looked around the room, his eyes lingering on different vampires.

“Other questions become apparent…what is the mental effect of living forever? Watching those you care for turn to dust around you? When does the horror turn to apathy, and the souls become simply…cattle? When do you forsake love for eternal life? Even if we did develop a “cure”, how many would take it? Understand, I speak not for anyone in this room…but I do speak from experience. There is much more to this than just the physical.”

He stopped, realizing that passion was filling his voice. He bowed slightly to Alexandra, their eyes locking briefly. Rising, he gathered himself and continued.

“M’Lady Alexandra, thank-you for calling this conference. As you can see, there will be much knowledge shared because of your generosity. I wonder if you have any information you would like to add, at this point?”

Kain heard's Steele's question, and foudn it an interesting one. And a question that eh could not answer. Being the young age of 29, he was in no position to really answer on that one. But his experiance with Ravelyn, Daja, and Qui, could give some insight to it. Kain had, however, gained more power than one of his age should due to his experiances. He had lived several lifetimes of war, conflict and strife in his short years, and Kain did not doubt more would follow, if the other forces in this world had thier way.

"Few would take the cure if they did not see thier situation as diseased. But, it would be reassuring to have the option. But...with a cure, a cure would possibly make the choice less impending, less worth. Would this be a good thing?" Kain muttered to himself in quiet reflection and pondering. One could hear his words if you listened closely, and vampires could hear the unheard easily.

Steele's questions hit home. These had been Laura's thoughts. How many friends or family could she watch grow old and die.

"Well", she said. "There are those who are turned unwillingly and those who take it willingly. Those who are turned unwillingly often turn evil or go insane because they want what they can no longer have. A normal life. Those who take the gift willingly are often evil to begin with to go to such lengths for power. There are a few exceptions. So a cure would be good for those who were turned against thier will."

Todd sat there as Steele discussed the psychological effect on vampires. Though he was young and still mortal, he guessed he might voice his opinions.

"Well...it depends on the vampire I guess. Now, I am human and no idea what it is like to be immortal, but...it depends on the person."

Todd took off his brown leather jacket and placed it on the back of his chair before continuing.

"Let me give you an example. You take three soldiers...fresh out of basic lets say and they get into combat. One soldier jumps in a ditch and curls up into a ball, refusing to budge and decides to take any way possible to get out of the situation. The second soldier is like the veterans, he does what is needed to be done without much looking back. The third soldier is in the middle..he advances, but is scared..yet doesn't show it..he just accepts it like the second soldier."

Todd paused to sip some Firebrand.

"Now, I am talking from my point of view as a human..but I hope you all see my point. Now flipping back to vampires. Like the first soldier, I guess some vampires would take any cure or do anything to become human or whatever they were before..no questions asked. Some, like the second soldier would not look back at all and just adapt to thier new lifestyle...and become cold...emotionless. Finally, like the third soldier, others are slipt in the middle. They like the new lifestyle, but they look back at thier old life....wondering which is better."

Todd looked at everyone in the room.

"I hope you all see what I am getting at here."

Steele's questions hit home. These had been Laura's thoughts. How many friends or family could she watch grow old and die.

"Well", she said. "There are those who are turned unwillingly and those who take it willingly. Those who are turned unwillingly often turn evil or go insane because they want what they can no longer have. A normal life. Those who take the gift willingly are often evil to begin with to go to such lengths for power. There are a few exceptions. So a cure would be good for those who were turned against thier will."

"Agreed. But those that are "evil", who use their Vampirism to dominate and abuse...does it not fall to us to...cure them, as well?"

Steele listened as Todd made his case, nodding his head in agreement. The point the boy was failing to grasp is that he was on the losing team. Vampires were immortal, near-invulnerable, super-strong, enhanced reflexes, they could fly and turn to mist...Todd was just meat. Being a bloodsucker would definitely change the way you view the world.

"I agree with you Todd, it depends on the individual and the circumstance. And...I don't like this casual usage of 'evil'. I hate that word, just as much as I hate the word 'good', in this context at least. To call people evil so casually, and without much definition is vague." Kain said, again quietly.

Lauralin listened to Todd a bit confused. "I thought that was more or less what I just said."

She approached Turquine as she looked at Darius. "But we have to be careful with that or we'll wind up with witch hunts. Perhaps that would be a policy best set by individual governments."

Turquine turned and embraced Lauralin, "Hello, Father", she said. He kissed her softly on the head, "How are you Princess?"

She smile up at him, "I'm alright, holding on."

He nodded, knowing that the events of the past several weeks were wearing on everyone.

Ilkanas had nodded her head in agreement to the classifications brought up, but then came the talk of a cure she proposed. She listened quietly, wondering if she should speak up for a moment, but waited. Finally, she had her chance and her chosen comments.

"Todd, perhaps you misunderstand what we go through. Stop and take a look at a hamburger and remember that meat comes from a cow. Now, imagine if that cow could talk and you used to be a cow before becomming human. Now, stop and think of how different the outlooks on life are for a human and for a cow. That is what it is like for us."

She turned to the others, continuing with, "The idea of a cure is one that relates to a societal problem where I come from. Vampires are considered a part of life there and are accepted by the society. Our breed is still alive while at the same time being physically superior and effectively immortal. Our Ministress of Defense has held her position for nearly a century and is one of the oldest vampires in our nation. But vampirism is still new, and amoung us the methods of spread mean we are effectively isolated from the rest of society. If not, the disease would spread and swallow the entire nation, and that is something we do not have the resources to support. We need a cure in order to control it while not forcing a form of isolation on large portions of the society. And while I may enjoy the perks, I would at the same time wish to not be always an outsider just because of a simple virus I will have to live with for possibly the rest of my life."

Todd leaned back in his chair and thought over what Ilkanas had said to him. He sat quietly, thinking over what she had said and listening to the situation in her homeland. He thought for a little bit, pulled out the slim portable holographic laptop and opened it. He booted it up, but didn't turn on the hologram. Todd finally looked up.

"About how long does it take for the vampire virus to completly take over a human and turn them into a vampire?"

Kaede turned to look at Todd. "That varies with the individual. Personally, I find the metaphor of human and cow a bit off - although the food part holds true. But unlike humans with cows, vampires do not have to kill to feed." She paused a second, thinking before continuing. "Perhaps a better example might be that of a factory worker, who comes into a small sum of money and then opens his own factory, and becomes wealthy -fed if you will- from the workers who are now in his former position. He can then choose to treat his employees as he will. Being a factory owner doesn't make him any more or less virtuous. That rests on how he chooses to use his new position of power.

"Of course," she continued, "there have always been those who declared that no matter how well the workers are treaty that factory owners abuse their power to dominate those below them. They are usually the type to advocate the use of weaponary - another form of power - to dispose of all factory owners just because they find that certain type of power personally distasteful."

Kaede turned towared Ikanas and nodded respectfully, "You understand the meaning and value of a cure." She glanced around the room, her eyes resting on the president of Gawdly for just a fraction of a second longer than on anyone else. "It is a bit troublesome that perhaps not everyone here does, though."

"There will always be those who oppose an idea. Either because it's detrimental to them in some way or because thier own personal beliefs would prevent it", Turquine said. "Speaking as one who had spent a great deal of time hunting vampires I can say that a cure would be preferable to the present less savory and more dangerous methods of elimanting the threat. That is not to say that I believe all vampires are evil, in the theologian context. At least not now", he said as he looked at Lauralin, "but there are those who don't see shades of grey but rather in only black and white. I used to."

The kings voice is deep and rumbling, obviously more used to shouting orders on a battlefield than speaking in normal conversation.

Alexandra regarded Turquine with interest, following his approach with pale gray eyes, her gaze lingering momentarily on his sword. She could sense his aura from across the room, feeling a certain respect for the King's power. When his lips touched her hand, the vampiress tensed momentarily, a reflex she found to be more than a little embarrassing. She spoke softly, with a faint, unidentifiable accent.
"An honor as well, your Majesty."

("Can we classify the types of vampirism in a semi-official capacity? It would help to have classifications to work with.")

(Lauralin nodded, "I think you have a very good point. For one we can divide viral living and undead into two categories. I think that would be a start, Yes?")

Konnie nodded,
"That would be most useful. Biologically, the difference between living and dead is the most significant division, particularly on the topic of a cure. As for the psychological implications, I have little experience in that field."
Alexandra turned to Konnie, smiling.
"Perhaps I may be of assistance."
Konnie glanced to the vampiress.
"Of course."

Alexandra rose from her seat at the table, addressing the group as a whole, though looking more towards Steele than anyone else.
"When one becomes a vampire, so much is lost. Most can not really understand the horror, to be utterly alone forever, without feeling it for themselves. Personally, I found death to actually ease the pain. The hope of returning to a past life fades faster that way. In time, as the living become more and more alien, connections to friends and family fade as well. As Mr. Steele said, horror turns to apathy."

She paused a moment, shifting her gaze to Ilkanas.
"My concern is that, while a cure is vital to protect those not yet effected by the virus, it may not be possible to help those already afflicted. Even if they were cured of vampirism, could society accept them, and if so, would the former vampires want to be accepted by the society they have been separate from for so long?"

Lauralin sat back. "A valid point. Even one accused of a crime found in innocent society does not look upon them the same way. A former vampire would find it difficult to be trusted. I had not thought of that."

"Your trusted", the king rumbled.

"Most of my people do not know. And as we saw by the attack on the mansion, when it was just suspected they turned violent", Lauralin said with distinct saddness in her voice.

Turquine nodded, "True. But there my be some way."

"Perhaps. I am not one to give up easily. But there are some things to which there is not a solution", the Queen stated.

"There are only things which are as yet unknown", Ferrannifer said, "as a researcher in physiology and necrology I've found many things that were not suspected at the time I discovered them."

"Then perhaps you can bend your research to this matter. If nothing else we can help those who want help", the king rumbled.

"I don't think you or Laura would approve my methods", Ferrannifer replied.

"Most certainly not", Lauralin stated.

"Why?" the king asked. Then he remembered the way Ferrannifer used to be and raised a hand, "Never mind."

Sigrun listened attentively to the conversation, and mulled over their words. A lot of it was true, but there were biases, and even though they had realized this to an extent, he wasn't sure if they understood completely the bigger picture. And so, he spoke,

"You will find that a great many truths you cling to depend greatly on your own point of view. ((OOC: Identify where the previous quote comes from and you get a cookie!)) I have seen and experienced both lifestyles of mortals and vampires. I once was human, and hated the vampires with a passion, for they had murdered my wife. However, fate brought me to meet Skadi, one of the oldest vampires of Assington, and she chose to gift me with the abilities of a vampire. For over thirteen hundred years, I lived as a vampire, and became reknown in combat as a terrible and fearsome opponent. Learning of my heritage up to before my vampirism, I only gained in strength and skill as I learned of my elven gifts that lay locked away in the drops of my blood."

Sigrun spawned a small window with a flick of his wrist. They could see his old image, the one in which he had lived as mortal and vampire.

Portal Image (http://groups.msn.com/_Secure/0SwAwA10XUoM1NxQhv*to*1jdy05QlgX18VBanWQfh9UUaBKdUluzqlU3tUUtkNY47Z3x62irh6BHQlB7hwD!S1LfPzVgLRowJ4x XwUJwwrHT1nITT4nqWA/Max2.bmp)

By this point, I had come to regard humans as lesser beings, as cattle, and lived only for the enrapturing adrenaline of battle. My name was Maximus Destroi, and as it suggests, I destroyed everything around me, save for a few individuals or things. I was the embodiment of Death, the destroyer of worlds. Nothing seemed to be able to stop my assault upon the world, nothing could deter my drive."

Sigrun paused and glanced around, speaking in a newer tone of voice, as if a revelation had occurred, "Until the day I met my only enemy whom I've not defeated. He released me of my vampiric bindings, and sent me to the afterlife. I was done, I was free at long last from the prison of the cruel nightlife. But the fates were not finished with me, and so arranged through complicated measures a way for me to return to complete my destiny. I returned as you see me now, and I have changed much. Although I still retain my combat skills, I am without the enhancements of vampirism. I have come to view the world as hopeful once more, and no more do I see any other but vampire as cattle. I had discovered life once again, and in the form of an elf, I am granted eternity to savor that which I had sought for all those dark years. In a way, you might say that I have evolved from a pessimistic individual, to a destructive fearsome one, to this state I am in now, which grants me wisdom, and peace."

Sigrun took a breath and closed off his speech, "Peace...of mind, and soul. Peace between men, elves, vampires, and other species. Peace... is why we are here, to set a hope for those that seek it within their souls. Let us not forget that."

"Peace? My homeland makes its living off war. All of it being under the guise of doing what we have to in order to survive. They have no use for a true peace. But they do have need of those they can rely on to fight, and that is why they accept us."

She turned to Todd and said, "The transformation period varies from four to eight hours among my kind. We've determined the virus itself to be a supermutagen of a step above the adaptibility of HIV and its like. But among other species, such as humans, it can vary even more. And that is just my particular infection, not that of anyone else."

Then came Konnie's turn. "Would they accept us? Yes. The entire nation is based around science as god. Even in the face of having one percent of their population able to use magic, science continues to reign surpreme. The same bias that has us isolated also allows us to enjoy the advantage of antidiscrimination policies against people with incureable illnesses. After all, to them it's just a disease."

She paused once more before continuing. "But, that does not speak to whether any cured will be accepted back into society. Those cured may find themselves being given bloodpacks by ill-informed but well-meaning people afraid of seeing a blood frenzy. People still remember the tales of the early vampires and their insanity when not fed."

"You will find that a great many truths you cling to depend greatly on your own point of view.

(OOC - Obi Wan Kenobi, The Empire Strikes Back, played by Alec Guinness)

(OOC: Cookie to Dragonsreach!)

Sigrun sighed slightly, waiting politely until Ilkanas was finished speaking, followed by Konnie. He spoke at long last.

"War is destructive to a society. It may not be apparrent right away, but given time, war always will destroy any society. Thus a greater wisdom to understand this, and to understand that although one may seek peace, they never forget how they came to obtain that peace."

Alexandra rose from her seat at the table, addressing the group as a whole, though looking more towards Steele than anyone else.
"When one becomes a vampire, so much is lost. Most can not really understand the horror, to be utterly alone forever, without feeling it for themselves. Personally, I found death to actually ease the pain. The hope of returning to a past life fades faster that way. In time, as the living become more and more alien, connections to friends and family fade as well. As Mr. Steele said, horror turns to apathy."


Kaede's mind drifted off for a moment, lost completely in a memory, a memory so strong that it transcended the bounds of her mental shielding - not that it was projected outward, rather it was just open to anyone who might pick up on that which was not shielded.

A very young auburn haired child sat in a rose garden crying, looking as the approaching winter slowly claimed the last of the surviving flowers. A petite woman of Asian heritage walked up to the child, wiped her tears, and spoke gently

Kaede's mouth moved in time sync with that of the woman's, her voice inaudible to human ears, perhaps the merest whisper to those with more sensitive hearing.

'All things change. You must be just as happy that flowers whither as you are that they blossom. Otherwise, the sadness will blind you and you will never truly see a rose again.'

Kaede shook herself out her reverie and mentally caught up with the conversation.

"Perhaps, if we do find a cure" she suggested, "we could set up a sort of informal exchange system for those vampires who seek a cure - if they so desire to participate. It might be easier for a former vampire to be accepted in a new place, where he or she where unknown before. And for many it might be easier to accept a new culture rather than to re-embrace on which they had rejected or had been rejected by."

Todd sat in his chair as he stared at Sigrun's old self. So...that is what he meant, but the dead can't come back to life. Well, rack up one more mystery.

When Ilkanas told him the approximate time it took for a person to turn, he began to type into his computer; after finishing the senario he wanted, he typed Ilkanas for the file name.

Something struck Todd, he leaned back in his chair and looked at everybody.

"Politions..to me that is what we all sound like. We all understand right now that there could be a cure out there for vampirism, some might have been vampires for so long that it is impossible for them to adjust to new world, and that there are many who wouldn't mind going back to who they once were.

"Now, we are all saying that again, and again, and again. I understand we are trying to make it all clear to everyone....and I have to listen extra hard...but we need to figure out what we can do to make this cure.

"From what I have heard is that some breeds are injured by silver. Isn't it possible that we can find someway to use diluted silver nitrate as some form of a cure...or something can could be used by someone bitten by a vampire? Is there anything else anyone can think of that could be used as a cure?"

Listening to the different viewpoints, Steele was not surprised by any of the revelations, and the politco-speak was becoming annoyingly repetittive. Peace. Everyone spoke of peace. There could never be peace when one is a hunter, and the other, prey. Darius wasn't interested in a cure for any reasons beyond his own...to eliminate the curse, once and for all. Without vampires, his parents would still be alive, Rafe and many others would now be standing by his side and Lauralin...well, things might be different between them without her affliction hanging between them.

"From what I have heard is that some breeds are injured by silver. Isn't it possible that we can find someway to use diluted silver nitrate as some form of a cure...or something can could be used by someone bitten by a vampire? Is there anything else anyone can think of that could be used as a cure?"

"Interestingly enough, my scientists have discovered an interesting enzyme that seems to adapt and transform cells infected with the vampire "virus"...I'm no scientist, but from what I understand, this particular enzyme either embraces, or rejects any alien substance introduced to it. The vampire cells are incredibly powerful, and in many cases, the only thing keeping a victim alive. The enzyme therefore adapts itself to the presence."

Steele took a deep breath before continuing, knowing he was somewhat over his head, and about to open a major can of worms.

"By saturating this enzyme with different energy sources, we have been able to turn it into "reject" mode, forcing it to combat the vampire virus. It has been successful more often than not. We have yet to test it on a living subject, but my team is confident it should work. I have a sample of the enzyme with me...it cannot be replicated, as far as we know. We would need a much larger amount to properly test it's efficiency."

The big man knew where to find a steady supply of the rare enzyme...but the owner probably would not be too happy to give it up.

Kain was expecting something different, something with different objectives in mind. This was not what he had hoped for, these were old topics to him. Topics which he had grown bored of in reality. They were certainly important, but Kain had expected something else, he did not know what.

Like the others, he had heard these arguements before, the points of view raised were old ones which had been around far long than the holders of them. Kain remained in the backseat of all of this, his voice rarely raised, but his ears still open to what was going on.

"The problem", Ferrannifer said leaning forward, "is that what works on some vampires doesn't work on most others. It's dependent on species and bloodline. Silver is ineffective against myself and Laura but it would be effective against some others. President Gawdly makes another valid point. Poisons for instance are useless because the vampires body rejects them."

She then looked specifically at Steele, "The problem with your solution is two fold, at least for the undead vampires in Dragonsreach. Our bodies are altered during the transformation. Lungs no longer transefer oxygen to the blood and it isn't required to. The stomach no longer digests food but rather adapts to pull blood from the stomach into the bloodstream. Red blood cells break down as the body is unable to sustain them. And there is the link to the negative material plane. Even if your technique worked AND we managed to survive we would be consumed by the power that once gave US power."

Paige had been listening to the discussion, taking notes of interest and shaking her head at some of the propositions that had been covered. “I have to agree with Ferrannifer, there is no way to save someone who is dead in all sense of the word, other than a curse that keeps them alive. Take away the curse, and you take away the ‘life’.” She flicked her eyes around the table. “No offence, but the only way to cure vampirism is to find a way to stop the curse being passed on to new victims, and then waiting for the race to die out.”

Sigrun closed his eyes as he retreated back to the side of the room where he had come from. He listened to the others speaking as they debated how to create a cure. Paige so far, was the one that had it best: Stop the so called "infection" before it started its trouble. Kill the root of the problem.

Which means several things. Make a jump back in time to the first individuals exploring vampirism and eliminate them before any spawn were created. But time travel is impossible, and so we must figure out a way easier than that. Perhaps an "anti-virus" that causes an immune system boost? But then what to do with those already infected? Technically, they are doomed to death, or eternal life as they are.

Sasha broke into Sigrun's thoughts, It is a tricky situation, difficult to complete successfully, but possible, she looked over at Sigrun smiling slightly, You forgot to put your shields up.

Sigrun raised an eyebrow, Well, damn it all.

I'm already damned, by holy figures, Sasha quipped, the grin broadening a bit more.

Sigrun chuckled slightly and turned his thoughts to Kain, I sense you are here more than to share information on your breed of vampires. You seek something, perhaps a cure to your vampiric state? Am I correct?

The buzz was there again, growling at the base of his spine, banging its way up towards the mental-shields that kept him safe. Knowing that this meant the vampires were communicating amongst themselves, he lowered his barriers enough to filter through some of the messages. It paid to be aware.

"So...we want to cure it before it becomes an issue. Fair enough, that will be of benefit to the future. Still, I return to my original line of questioning: do vampires WANT the "curse" to be ended...or are they interested in propagting their species? Is vampirisim simply a disease, or a way of life? If it is the former, then the solution is clear: cure the disease, no matter what the cost. If it is the latter though...well, things will get messy."

Kain reached inside his white robes for something. He reached into one of the not so deep pockets which contained a bronze box, decorated with a single symbol, a symbol of his namesake, Brightblade. The waveblade with a skull hilt, proudly on the surface. Kain took it out, and clicked it open, revealing to himself the carefully arranged cigars. After a few moments of looking at them, he took one from the prestigous box and placed it within his mouth.

He listened to Sigrun's question, a question which was highly interesting. He had never really been asked that question before, although he had asked it himself.

There would be no cure. Not for me. Not like the way I am. But I do not know if I would take one even if there was one. I could never return to the mortal life I had before...to become Psi. I came here more out of....wanting vampire company again.

Kain lit the cigar with only a thought, no amusing pyromancy, no cantrip. Just a thought, amoungst many other thoughts. His face remained in thought, looking at the cigar box, which was now closed. He inhaled the crimson gas which the cigar gave off, his own creations. The blood filled his mouth pleasantly.

He closed his eyes, and his shoulders dropped slightly.

I miss my family.


The Shentavos.

Sigrun watched as Kain enjoyed his cigar, smelling the blood even from across the room. Speaking of which...what has become of the Shentavos? I have not seen any for a long time, save for Ravelyn, but even then, that has been a while?

"Excuse me. I need a breath of air." Sasha spoke to those close to herself and made her way toward the balcony. Once out there, she moved out of sight and launched herself upward into the night sky, before perching herself upon one of the outcroppings of the building, and stared out into the night. The voices of the conference could be heard filtering out into the night, and she clearly heard them.

Ironically, I don't even need air anymore... she thought to herself. She had needed to get out of the room, its diplomatic air a little too stiffling to herself. Although she was the representative of the Underworld Cities, she had never quite adjusted to the role in a diplomatic sense.

For one of thier family members, I am kept in incredible darkness about thier affairs. I am the black sheep. I do not fit in. They are all creatures of grand design, ones with plans above the skies that mortals can see. They tamper with other realms, fly above my comprehension and smile. Do not get me wrong, I eternally grateful to Ravelyn for her oppertunity. Her gift to me has allowed to set things....right. But...her family is hardly one which I could feel comfortable with, or be at peace with. There is always some conflict, some design in the motion. I want rest, I want something else. And beside, I can never find her. She was a fine mother when she was around, but she was never around. Never to help. Such is the disadvantage. Ravelyn always has to do things monumental, always be a martyr, always a hero. And her bastard prodigy Qui, I could hardly call upon him for what he did to.....

Kain breathed out a gentle puff of red smoke, only to inhale it back in shortly afterwards. The gas flowed around in the air beautifully, and finally liquidified in his mouth deliciously.

I am different now. Different from the Shentavos. Different from the Psi. Different from all immortals and mortals. Different due to experiances, and the blood in my viens. I have no purpose but to serve others. Such is my solitary purpose. Kain continued the mental conversation, reflecting on things.

"Pandora's box cannot be unopened. Most vampires will still wish to be vampires after thier experiances, or feel they could never return. And such talk of cures. I doubt there will be a universal cure, at least not for many generations. You should be more pragmatic to this situation. If there is indeed, a situation at all." Kain added quietly, but decisively. He still had his cigar within his talons. He still stared at his bronze cigar box.