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[h1][color=f49ac2]Amaris Marivaldi[/color][/h1]

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[sub]Dates: December 7th - December 21st[/sub]
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[hider=December 7th: Amaris and Maddie]

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[h2][i]New Term, New Agreement[/i][/h2]
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Maddie was a sight for sore eyes, the Countess’ nerves easing ever so slightly now that her partner was near. Now that she was back by her side, Amaris could make her escape at last… or at the very least she could put some physical distance between herself and the evening. There were still responsibilities she would have to attend to back at the dorm, but the Countess hoped that the safety of home terf and the company of her companion would bring at least a little comfort to the situation. With the host’s dismissal, the pair left the space with little delay and made for their own dorm. It wasn’t all that far of a distance but the time seemed to stretch on as exhausted silence surrounded Amaris. She couldn’t bring herself to speak a word until she was safely tucked within the walls of her own dorm, the front door shut firmly behind them.

Pressing her back into the door, Amaris heaved a heavy sigh in an effort to expel some of the tension that had built up over the evening. “[color=f49ac2]If I never have to experience that again, it would be too soon.[/color]” She murmured to herself, taking a moment longer to collect her thoughts before peeling herself from the door. An attempt at a relaxed expression was made but was swiftly abandoned as the effort to maintain it was more than the Countess had to spare at present. Amaris was somewhat hopeful that Maddie had found some enjoyment in the get together, that perhaps the night wasn’t a complete waste after all. This weak glimmer of hope brought a faint smile to her face which was quickly directed to the mage.

“[color=f49ac2]What did you think? Did it match your expectations?[/color]”

[center]~~~[/center]

Maddie took a deep breath of the early morning air as they stepped out of the Sinnenodel dorm. It had been an interesting night and all she could think about now was collapsing face first into her bed. It hadn't been awful by any means; a few awkward spots but she was just really getting to meet everyone while they seemed to… not get along but at the very least tolerate each other more than they would a stranger. She just wished there weren't so many topics that needed to be avoided. Having to be careful was such a hassle.

Amaris was silent the entire walk over. Oh dear. Things must have gone poorly. Maddie didn't miss the way her vampire needed a moment to collect herself when they returned. Maddie grimaced as she made her way into the kitchen for a drink. She didn't envy Ari in the slightest. She gave Ari a reasonable amount of time and returned with, returning the vampire's smile. 

[color=FC8686]"I learned quite a bit about the others. I think Max honestly hates life, Lilie is sweet but an airhead, Salem is a walking disaster, and Aaron is definitely a Starag and everyone noticed how his morning just got worse and worse."[/color] Maddie sighed, sipping at her water. [color=FC8686]"It was nice to finally meet everyone but I think I'm going to stick to being friends with Lilie and Aaron. Not that Salem isn't nice but I think he's going to be trouble in the future. How about you? Was it as awful as Aaron made it seem? He came back completely shut down after the last round."[/color]

“[color=f49ac2]I suppose someone threatening the structure of your bones is bound to have that effect. There was a minor hiccup in the serving schedule that resulted in Count Astorio’s tribute being skipped. I’m sure you can imagine how well that went over with a Sinnenodel host.[/color]” Amaris pinched the bridge of her nose between her thumb and middle finger. “[color=f49ac2]It would also seem I was too quick in my judgement of the new Eve representative. While I had hoped he would be more firm on his mage treatment standards, he was far too comfortable around Varis and his suggestions. Makes me worry for that poor girl.[/color]” She shook her head as if the memories of the evening would just fall away with the motion. Unfortunately for her, they seemed intent on remaining.

“[color=f49ac2]That does remind me though... Varis brought up the arrangements for you and Aaron to attend an activity together as part of his magic program.[/color]”

Maddie winced at the thought of Count Sinnenodel’s wrath over the missed bottle. Aaron must have been seriously distracted if he’d stumbled over that. Her mind wandered to the shy looks exchanged between him and Lilie. No, Aaron was far too professional for something like that to distract him. It must have been the mages as a group. Maybe he wasn’t used to having to wait on two groups at one time? She made a mental note to ask how he was the next time they saw each other. 

Speaking of how someone was, her feet chose to remind her how awful heels were. She winced at the painful reminder in her toes and heels, placed her glass on the counter, and slipped them off. She gave a grateful sigh and then gave Ari a curious look. [color=FC8686]“Yes, Aaron needs a calming activity for his program.Apparently, it has to be scheduled and everything but it can’t involve any sort of fighting. He chose dancing since physical activity does relax him the most and I was the obvious choice since Count Sinnenodel likely won’t allow him to mingle with Lilie and after tonight’s conversations, I doubt he’d care to relax with Max and Salem.”[/color] Maddie told her, sipping at her water again. [color=FC8686]“Did Count Sinnenodel suggest it was inappropriate?”[/color]

Easing herself over to a chair, Amaris followed Maddie’s example and released herself from her shoes. While her feet hadn’t necessarily registered pain of any sort, simply removing the shoes had gifted her instant relief. It was almost as if a piece of her tension had been stored in the material and that by removing them she could also distance herself further from the evening.

“[color=f49ac2]No, no. Nothing like that. Varis is just impatient when it comes to deadlines is all. I informed him that he would receive a swift response but before I send him the official approval we need to have a chat. Hanging out with Aaron is one thing, and I have no intentions of going back on our agreement. That being said, there are some risks to participating in a mental mage’s curriculum even if that role is fairly passive. I just want to know that you’re prepared for what’s to come.[/color]”

Maddie followed the Countess’ example, sinking into the couch across from her. She frowned, concern overwhelming the relief at the news that Count Sinnenodel hadn’t raised objections. Risks? Aaron only mentioned they would be dancing and they would probably be talking because it would be weird to dance for any period of time without speaking to each other. What risk could there be? They both knew better than to spill secrets and while she had no doubt Aaron could trick her into revealing something if he really tried, she figured she had enough wits to keep the more important things carefully locked away.

[color=FC8686]“I’m sorry, Ari, but I thought we were just dancing. I don’t know what risk there could be honestly.”[/color] Maddie admitted.

“[color=f49ac2]Mental magic is a rather unique study with an incredibly strict curriculum. And after having the opportunity to speak with someone in the program, I can honestly say that I don’t particularly envy the study. Aaron’s first year will be spent essentially breaking down the boundaries of his own mind. Unfortunately, something like that is bound to have a few side effects outside of his control.[/color]” She explained. There was nothing inherently dangerous about allowing the pair to dance so Amaris had little concern for her partner’s physical safety, but she couldn’t forget the expression Dennis had worn when he had shared his experiences with her during the Revel. The last thing she wanted to happen was for Maddie to get hurt because her partner allowed her to walk into a situation she wasn’t prepared for.

“[color=f49ac2]There is a very real possibility that you might hear something not meant for you as well as the other way around. And it might take some time before he is able to limit the blurring of those lines.[/color]” 

Breaking down the boundaries of his mind? For an entire year? She wasn't sure what that meant but it didn't sound pleasant. [color=FC8686]"I don't understand, Ari. Aaron knows better than to tell me anything that could put either of us in a tough spot."[/color] Maddie frowned in confusion. [color=FC8686]"How would opening his mind have anything to do with me learning things? It's still arcane magic so he'd have to purposely use his magic to mess with me. Right?"[/color]

Amaris shook her head as she tried to recall what it was that Dennis had said to her. “[color=f49ac2]This isn’t your average affinity. Normally you would be right, but with mental magic things start to get a little complicated. His grasp over his own magic will be at its weakest during his first year of the program, or at least that was my understanding. Think of it like opening a bottle of soda after you’ve shaken it. It’s not so easy to put it all back.[/color]” It probably wasn’t the best of comparisons, but it would have to do for the moment.

“[color=f49ac2]He might not always know when he’s using his magic and you might find that he’ll be talking to you without actually speaking. The student I mentioned before said it was something that just sort of happened until he was able to control it better. I’m sure you can imagine how awkward that can get.[/color]”

Maddie chewed on her lip as she processed this new information. That… could be dangerous. If Aaron had no control over the things he “said” or “heard”, it put a whole new spin on this activity. She had heard weird things about the mental mages but she’d dismissed most of them as rumors spread by the ignorant. Ari made her reconsider now. Maybe she ought to have paid attention. She took another sip of her drink.

[color=FC8686]“And you’re… okay with this.”[/color] Maddie was more than a little confused. The implications were a lot and while she didn’t have much in the way of secrets, Aaron must certainly have plenty of them. Getting to learn some of the things he keeps under lock and key, or several locks and keys, sounds like a whole series of drama that she really didn’t want to get in the crossfire of. [color=FC8686]“If I learn anything or if he learns anything, not that I really have anything interesting for him to learn, won’t that endanger your position with Count Sinnenodel?”[/color]

“[color=f49ac2]I don’t think ‘okay’ is quite the word I would use here.[/color]” Amaris admitted, leaning her head back to stare blankly at the ceiling. Aaron’s decision to go into mental magic had set before her several opportunities but not one of them came without a major drawback. The whole situation had her feeling like she was back in the forest sitting at the dealer’s table, the betting chip rolling across her knuckles whilst the soulless eyes of the mannequin tapped expectantly for her response. Tilting her head back to its natural resting place, Amaris returned her gaze to a slightly distressed looking Maddie. She couldn’t fight the feeling that she had simultaneously stressed out and disappointed her partner by bringing up her concerns but, unfortunately, this wasn’t something they had the luxury of time to ease through. 

“[color=f49ac2]That being said, if that was all there was to this I could have pulled rank and that would have been the end of it.[/color]” She continued, lacing her fingers together in front of her. “[color=f49ac2]If this evening’s festivities didn’t already endanger my position with Varis, I would be surprised. No matter what we decide, someone is going to be uncomfortable or at a disadvantage. The best we can hope for is to pick the one that hurts us the least, which means we need to decide who and what our priorities are.[/color]” 

[color=FC8686]"Okay, that sounds simple enough."[/color] Maddie said cautiously. [color=FC8686]"Though I don't know what the list of priorities is but if you explain it to me, I'm sure I could help with a decision."[/color] At least she assumed Amaris wanted her input. She'd said "we need to decide" rather than just her but honestly, Maddie was very much out of her element. Little situations she could handle but Ari didn't make this sound like a little situation. 

[color=FC8686]"I just want to say that I appreciate that you didn't just pull rank. I'm not blind to the fact I have the best partner of the group. I don't think I've thanked you for treating me like my own person yet but thank you."[/color] It may have been a little out of the blue but the party had made her acutely aware just how easy she had it with Ari. She could only imagine what the other vampires would do if the other mages were in a compromising situation like this but she doubted they'd be a part of the decision making process.

Maddie’s words brought a genuine smile to the countess’ face, perhaps the warmest she’d felt all night. She didn’t treat the mage like her own person for any sort of praise but because it was the very least she could do; because it was the right thing to do. Still, she couldn’t help but appreciate the impact such a small decision could have.

“[color=f49ac2]I am responsible for your life and wellbeing, the least I can do is have a little respect for it. But your words are greatly appreciated, I hope you know that.[/color]” And perhaps someday, it might not feel quite so much like an exception. She wished to see a world where mages were recognized for more than just being convenient sustenance and entertaining playthings. But that was a daydream for another time.

“[color=f49ac2]As I mentioned before, no matter what we decide someone will be stuck in a less than ideal situation. To move ahead with this would provide a potential benefit to my house but in doing so I put your friendship with Aaron on the line. Not to mention it’s a risk to your autonomy depending on what is learned. I could refuse the proposal but that would be a definite end to your interactions with Aaron, paints me with a less than flattering political brush, and jeopardizes Aaron’s safety in an already difficult program… assuming he’s still allowed to participate.[/color]” To most, the decision likely would have been a no brainer. A mage centered risk didn’t really carry the same weight to those that treated them as simple tools in the first place. It would have been treated as an expectation, one that Amaris was strongly opposed to.

[color=f49ac2][i]It just had to be mental magic, didn’t it?[/i][/color] An agitated finger tapped rhythmically against her interlocked knuckle as the countess continued to weigh her options. There had to be something else she could do, right? Something she hadn’t thought of yet that might help her keep her promises to her partner without taking unnecessary risks. 

“[color=f49ac2]Well, I could always petition for a tutor with a specialty in mental protection as a condition of the arrangement. It would eat into your free time and minimize any potential benefit for me, however, it would also minimize the risks to us from our first option.[/color]” Unfortunately, as lovely as this alternative sounded on the surface, there was still one more drawback that Amaris had failed to mention. The added protection for Maddie opened the door to further punishment for Aaron depending on the situation. Learning nothing could be a failure and leaking information could be misconstrued as sabotage. They wouldn’t just be minimizing the risks, they would be shifting them to someone else completely.

Maddie matched Ari's smile. She enjoyed how easy their relationship was so far; it didn't feel like they forced themselves to interact and Maddie didn't feel like she was treading on eggshells everywhere she went. Becoming a mage with the expectation that she'd go to a Sinnenodel household was not a pleasant experience but Princess pulled her out of that and plopped her here. She was beyond grateful because otherwise she'd probably be just like Aaron.

[color=FC8686]"A tutor? I don't know if the Princess would permit that considering the mage class restrictions."[/color] Maddie considered out loud. She'd picked her schedule so that Ari wouldn't have to waste her time begging on her behalf and so that she'd have a reasonable class schedule. [color=FC8686]"I mean, the only reason I even took dowsing was because everyone said it was basically an unwritten requirement for life magic."[/color] Maddie explained, confused how Ari forgot. She was pretty sure she explained…

[color=FC8686]"I forgot to talk to you about classes."[/color] Maddie's hand flew to her mouth. [color=FC8686]"Fuck, I mean, damn, I mean. Ugh. I was so worried about the party it just slipped my mind. I haven't submitted it yet so there's still time to play with it."[/color] Maddie practically ran from the living room to her bedroom where she has printouts of the email and the class selection forms. Idiot! How could she forget to run it by Ari. So much for thanking her. 

She came back, having taken a breath to compose herself, and sat on the arm of Amaris' chair, leaning on the back as she held out the papers for her to take. [color=FC8686]"So, there are two mandatory classes, Affinity Mastery 102 and Spell Theory 102, that are both an hour and a half. The email suggests we take only 45 minute classes so we have the same time frame as this semester but says we can take one more one and a half hour class instead without requiring permission but it cuts our lunch period in half. That's Dowsing class."[/color] She pointed to where she'd circled it in red. [color=FC8686]"And then I took Intro to Spellcraft because I am interested in spell development in the future but I could drop it to add in Intro to Protection but because that's another one and a half hour class, you'd have to talk to the Princess about because it would extend my school day by 45 minutes as well."[/color]

With stifled laughter, Amaris watched as Maddie scrambled from the conversation to retrieve something from her room. Admittedly, she had forgotten that the forms for their next round of classes were due soon. She’d have to remember to submit her own before the deadlines arrived. 

Once Maddie had returned, she accepted the papers and skimmed over the options carefully. The initial plan seemed solid enough that had there not been any issue concerning the dance classes with Aaron, she’d have given it her stamp of approval without a second thought. Unfortunately, it wasn’t so simple this time around, but she was determined to find the best solution to an iffy situation.

“[color=f49ac2]You picked your classes well, I think it will be a great semester for you. With Dowsing being important for your affinity I’d rather not touch that if it can be helped. We might be able to find room later on in your schedule for Spell Theory, but if we can’t, that doesn’t close any doors to you concerning the subject. This could actually work out rather nicely if I play my cards right with Ryner. It still eats into a portion of your day but not nearly as much as I feared. Do you think it’s something you can commit to without risk of burning out? Because, if so, we might be able to make this whole thing work.[/color]”

Maddie considered the question. She wasn’t sure, honestly. It sounded like a demanding class load and she wasn’t sure how intense the protection class would be. It was an intro course so maybe it wouldn’t be challenging? [color=FC8686]“I don’t know honestly. I don’t have any way to gauge the magical demands of all these classes. The course load should be fine; Spell Theory this year wasn’t incredibly demanding other than practice and Affinity Mastery is half the time me studying textbooks and dummies but I have no clue about dowsing and protection classes.”[/color] Maddie admitted, staring at the papers in hopes it would just tell her the solution. She really didn’t like the idea of Aaron hearing what was in her head or vice versa without control but she also didn’t want to leave her friend on the wayside either. 

[color=FC8686]“I should be able to do it. If it turns out it’s too much, I only have to survive a semester and then I can step out of protection and help Aaron find another outlet.”[/color] Maddie decided. [color=FC8686]“And besides, I have you to lean on if stuff gets rough, right?”[/color] 

The Countess nodded her head attentively as Maddie laid out her uncertainties. It was a lot to consider but it was something she wanted her mage to consider on her own. No one could face the situation in her place or tell her what she was capable of. That was something she was going to have to figure out.

“[color=f49ac2]I’m not going to tell you that it’s going to be easy, but I will say that I believe in your strength. Just to step up to the challenge is a great feat all on its own. But, should you find that it gets to be much for you alone, I will be right here to support you.[/color]” Amaris smiled as she returned the papers to their rightful owner. By taking the situation one semester at a time, it left room for gradual negotiation should there be a need to revisit the terms of the arrangement later on. 

“[color=f49ac2]It seemed like the two of you really enjoyed each other’s company, and I would hate for that to change. This seems like the best way to prevent such a thing from happening, so, with your permission, I can send Varis the official approval and we can submit your schedule proposal tomorrow. If I have to speak with Ryner about it, then so be it.[/color]” 

[color=FC8686]“You don’t need my permission to do that. I’ll submit the final choices on the school site before I go to bed tonight and then it’s up to you to convince the Princess.”[/color] Maddie took back the papers and hopped off the arm of the chair, stretching out some of the soreness. Chair arms do not make good seats. [color=FC8686]“Hopefully, this goes well. Aaron’s a good guy from what I can tell, just stuck in a bad spot. And now, I think I’m going to take a bath. That little gathering wore me out more than I thought. Sleep well, Ari.”[/color] She bid the vampire good night and headed into her room. 

“[color=f49ac2]I will certainly try. Rest well.[/color]” If Amaris was just glad that the night was over at last. It was finally time to change into something far more comfortable and have a good, long rest… something she would definitely need if she was going to be convincing Ryner of anything. With her discarded shoes in hand, Amaris disappeared down the hall and shut her door behind her.

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[sub]Dates: December 22nd - January 5[/sub]
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[hider= December 22nd: Amaris and Salazar]

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[h2][i]The Bloody Truth[/i][/h2]
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The Marivaldi estate was a quiet thing on even eventful evenings, only rowdy when it’s Masters were in the mood, and this night was no exception. Despite the flurry of meetings and discussions and small talk, a subdued hush rolled across the grounds like an early morning mist. It was the last day of a major family policy change and Salazaar was all too pleased to finally send the rest of the Marivaldi’s away and indulge in the pleasure of the company of his immediate family. He’d barely seen his wife and son in weeks and now they had the added opportunity to include Amaris in their morning walks around the grounds. He chuckled with a shake of his head and folded up the final letter, dropping it in the outgoing letter bin on his desk for his mages to have sent off.

He leaned back in his chair with a huff. So much had changed since his old master found his rest in the sun. His master’s daughter was grown and pried away from his protection by that meddlesome hag, the Marivaldis chafed with poorly concealed discontent at his position, and the Eves continued to drain the family of critical resources in order to maintain some facade of stability. Several mage factions rose without the help of any vampire, truly independent, and have made his covert network their own personal plaything, sticking holes in it whenever they could. It was a problem though the arrogant Sinnenodel heir seemed to have dealt with one of them all on his lonesome. That made him worried; Sinnenodels were cunning and smart but out playing an entire terrorist group that had just come crawling out of the woods? Salazar’s first thought was that Varis or his mistress decided they weren’t deserving of Sinnenodel resources but his intel suggested they weren’t affiliated with anyone. Clearly they crossed the wrong person somewhere; Salazar just wished he knew why. 

He lost track of time, considering everything he’d learned over the past few nights, trying to make sense of it. 

Amaris stood silently before the door to Salazar’s study with her arms by her sides and her eyes fixed ahead. Her entire trip home had been spent deep in deliberation as she considered her time spent at the academy. She could remember feeling the same way on her return trip home for her last break, though the circumstances then had been significantly different. This time, however, she found herself less afraid; less confused. If she had to name the feeling, Amaris would have dared to call it determination. Yet again the Countess had been faced with how little she actually knew, not to mention how little control she had over any situation, but this time she wasn’t so keen to take it lying down. Until this point, Amaris had been content just riding the waves caused by other people, pretending she could ignore them and that all would be well. But if life at Ryner’s school had taught the youth anything, it was that this way of existence would only bring her more pain. The question was, what did she want to do about it?

There was a time that the Countess believed she was above the behavior exhibited by her peers. She had thought them petty and cowardly, but it was just the way the world around her was determined to work. The way she saw it, Amaris had two choices ahead of her: she could either learn the game or run from it. No matter what her decision ended up being, though, the girl could not continue the way she was with one foot in and the rest of her running for cover. It put her a step behind the rest of the nobles in attendance but, more importantly, it had blinded her to her own misdeeds. 

Having allowed herself to get so wrapped up in her feelings about the loss of Cassandra, and then again with her concern over Count Eve’s mage, she had become one of the lofty do-nothing-hypocrites she often lamented about. Her encounter with Lilie had made that nearly impossible to ignore. Even now she could still hear her voice echoing about her head, the words of a girl who simultaneously accepted the status quo and yet refused to let it rule her. As much as it hurt the Countess to admit it, Lilie had been 100% correct, and more than a little justified in her reaction. If she had the time to be poking her nose into ‘safe’ cases such as the disagreement she had experienced with Benjamin, she had the time to be working on the more severe ones like Aaron and Varis. There was only one issue, she hadn’t the first clue about how she would accomplish such a thing. What she did know was that there was but a single door between her and someone more familiar with the subject than she would ever be.

Preparing herself for what was to come, the young countess finally lifted an arm and knocked her knuckles twice against the door before moving to peek inside. “[color=f49ac2]I hope I’m not disturbing you. May I come in?[/color]” She asked, a sense of calm washing over her that came as a surprise to no one more than herself.

[color=1CFF00]“Oh, Amaris!”[/color] Salazar startled, the surprise in his expression melting into familial warmth. [color=1CFF00]“I hadn’t realized how much of the morning I’d missed. I lost myself in thought, it seems. But please, come in. It’s been far too long; the house is far too quiet without your presence.”[/color] He stood and came around the desk to meet her, opening his arms to give her a hug.

Amaris stepped through the door completely, shutting it behind her before stepping forward to accept his embrace. She had heard the past few weeks had been particularly busy for him, and as usual, he had poured all of his focus into his work.

“[color=f49ac2]Working hard as always I see.[/color]” Amaris responded, flashing a smile as she spoke. If there was one thing she could always count on, it was Salazar knowing exactly what to say to make her feel at home. “[color=f49ac2]I heard about your meetings so I thought you’d like a moment to yourself before I started pestering you. But I agree, it’s been way too long. I’m happy to be home. You’ve been taking care of yourself I hope?[/color]” She asked with a pointed look, a joking accusation laced with genuine concern.

[color=1CFF00]“Thankfully, an immortal biology carries the burden of my negligence well.”[/color] Salazar laughed. [color=1CFF00]“I can hardly remember how I got by as a mortal, magic and all, anymore. But here, sit down. Regale me with the stories of your time at school while I open some blood for us to enjoy.”[/color] He gestured at a chair and made his way to a locked cabinet, opening it with a key on his keyring, and pulling out two glasses and a bottle before turning his attention back to Amaris and bringing the bottles to the desk.

“[color=f49ac2]You still shouldn’t let it become a habit, old man.[/color]” She clicked her teeth at him as she found herself over to a seat. Settling in, Amaris found herself struggling to find a place to start. There was so much she wanted and needed to say, yet now that she was here it had all but abandoned her.

“[color=f49ac2]Well, I can tell you what hasn’t changed: the place is quite an experience and I dislike my neighbors more than ever. But my new partner is pretty great so I suppose that makes up for a good portion of it all. I think you would like her. She knits these comfy little hats.[/color]” Amaris couldn’t keep a small smile from creeping onto her face at the memory. It didn’t last long, however. She knew she was just delaying the inevitable by choosing to talk about the warm and fuzzies but it also didn’t seem fair to drop all her problems on him so soon after he wrapped up work. The way she saw it, if she could wait this long to talk to him, she could wait just a little longer to bring up the heavy stuff.

With that in mind, Amaris chose to recount the most interesting event she could think of since her last trip home: the mage’s exam. She excitedly set in to telling him all about how the vampires had been blinded and the bizarre puzzles that had been set up as obstacles on their path. It was likely a strange thing to be excited about but there was so much about the experience that was so fascinating to her.

“[color=f49ac2]You should have seen Varis, he was absolutely fuming. I’m talking tantrum levels of not having any of it. If I didn’t know better, I would have thought it was fate's way of apologizing for his little soiree in advance.[/color]”

Salazar chuckled at her enthusiasm. He’d known she wouldn’t get along with Varis Sinnenodel since he’d heard they would be attending together but he hadn’t expected her to relish in his childishness. “Well, home hasn’t changed much at least. The family is vying for attention constantly, bemoaning the current status of mage rights, and avidly launching auctions for rare items just to outbid each other. In fact, you’d have met them all if you’d been able to come home a few days earlier but maybe it was better that you hadn’t.” He muttered, rubbing his head just at the memory of the rabble. Yeah, definitely not. [color=1CFF00]“Speaking of Varis, I thought I’d inform you that the purpose of the family gathering was to discuss the business proposal put out by Green Vision Inc. Giving them a seven year plan to lease our current facilities and upgrade them would save a significant amount of money for us as well as reduce the overall price for both vampires and humans in all Marivaldi territories. Of course, that means letting a snake into the garden.”[/color]

If she had to be perfectly honest, she didn’t feel like she had missed out on much with her timing. The Countess was already somewhat familiar with the behavior Salazar spoke of, having heard the whispers around the house whenever their presence was due. There were times when it seemed nothing would satisfy them, even when their requests were being met. An interesting bunch to be sure, and she had no idea how either he or her father had dealt with them in the past. It was certainly no envy of hers. Still, it would not be their immature antics that would capture her attention.

Amaris barely contained the look of disdain that threatened her good mood. She understood the importance of maintaining good business relations across territory lines, and that sometimes that meant tolerating the presence of less favorable folk, but why did it have to be them? Of all the houses, of all the opportunities, why did it have to work out to be the Sinnenodels?

“[color=f49ac2]I suppose it is better to bring it in under your watch than to have it sneak in and cause havoc but I can’t say the idea makes me very comfortable. Not that I don’t trust your judgement, I do! That’s part of why I needed to talk to you. It’s just difficult for me to comprehend how we can continue to be so accommodating of people who openly mock us at every turn. Why should they get to benefit off of us when all they do in return is screw us over?[/color]” It took a moment for Amaris to realize that the ire she had kept from her face had instead seeped into her words. Casting her eyes downward, the countess apologized sheepishly.

“[color=f49ac2]I’m sorry. It’s not really my place to feel any type of way about this, is it?[/color]"

[color=1CFF00]"You're a Marivaldi. Of course it's your place to have an opinion on our family's relationships."[/color] Salazar chuckled with a sympathetic smile.[color=1CFF00] "Time will temper that fire and you'll wield it with honed precision, I have no doubt, but this is an opportune learning moment. We are not accommodating; this is neither charity or hospitality and we are certainly not welcoming them with open arms. The Sinnenodels are our enemies, our polar opposites in almost all regards, which is why before we can consider the reasoning behind my decision, we must first understand who the decision involves."[/color] Salazar's expression grew grave and he sat taller, no longer her friend and guardian, but for all purposes Lord Marivaldi as he instructed his ward.

[color=1CFF00]"Any fool with an eye and a half a brain knows none of Lady Sinnenodel's heirs will ever see her throne. She changes them like outfits, bestowing on them all the privilege and responsibility they could dream of, and goals them into action with the whispers of power and prestige. Most families would fall apart at this kind of chaos. Leadership changing hands too often, rules and guidelines changing every century? A recipe for disaster. So, why does she do it?"[/color] Salazar asked Amaris.

As Salazar took on a more serious tone, Amaris instinctively shifted her own position to match the change in role that had occurred. She agreed with him that Lady Sinnenodel’s methods of leadership did little to provide structure for the house long term but she had never really given it much thought as to why she would choose such methods. It didn’t really make much sense of the surface but then again, what did make sense about the snakes? You never really knew for sure where you stood with one of their kind, and the moment you thought you had an advantage something would happen to put you right back at square one. Amaris’ expression twisted subtly as she fought the urge to dive down the rabbit hole of theories. Instead she decided on two guesses and hoped that they weren’t complete disappointments.

“[color=f49ac2]Misdirection perhaps? Or to maintain control? Chaos serves well as a smokescreen to outsiders as well as an obstacle for those within. And, if you control the shift in the tides, you leave your enemies a constant step behind. Sort of like the sleight of hand in a card trick.[/color]” While she was fairly proud of her theory she still remained uncertain. She was used to observing people from afar, learning about them from a safe distance, but the motives of nobles always seemed just beyond her reach.

[color=1CFF00]"Correct but superficial. Everything a Sinnenodel does is a smokescreen, everything is for control. Their house is a deception. They could tell you a fact and it still is a lie. But Lady Sinnenodel does it specifically to deprive her house of the one greatest ally any vampire has: Time."[/color] Salazar explained. [color=1CFF00]"Sybil Sinnenodel has had centuries on centuries to expand and solidify her influence and resources. It would take obsessive planning and preparation to even consider toppling her. And she is fully aware of this so she twists them against each other. Even those willing to ignore the heir position are caught up in the chaos, desperate to at least ensure they don't come out rock bottom. Everyone is so busy protecting themselves that Sybil is impossible to touch, even if they wanted to try."[/color]

[color=1CFF00]"However, it also serves a second purpose. Not only does it deprive them of time, it demolishes any capacity to trust. They live in a house where they can't use weapons and magic against each other so they have to be on guard for weapons in words and actions, for spies and skulking threats. They develop a fierce independence and a protective apathy from those around them, both in and out of family."[/color] Salazar sighed, shaking his head. [color=1CFF00]"It doesn't excuse any of their actions but it should offer some insight into how they work and the methods they use. In an environment where their political skills are primarily developed to adapt and change on a short term basis, they've become opportunistic manipulators. What do you think that means and how have you seen that in Varis?"[/color]

Amaris’ eyes widened with dawning realization. She almost shouted in her excitement to share her thoughts, but her somewhat recent training with Victor flashed through her mind. This was an opportunity for her to really put his teachings into practice. While this was her home, and she knew that Salazar was far less strict with certain matters, how was he supposed to take her seriously when she was constantly blurting out answers like a child? With a fair amount of conscious effort, Amaris took a moment to resituate herself by sipping at her glass before speaking.

“[color=f49ac2]I don’t think I have any better example than his recent blood tasting.[/color]” Admittedly, it had taken until this very conversation for her to fully grasp the idea of what had taken place. Even Victor had picked up on it but she had been so focused on Benjamin and Lilie that the notion had completely passed her by… As was likely the design.

“[color=f49ac2]By making the party about welcoming Count Benjamin, he made it impossible to refuse the invitation without coming across as rude. However, by stacking the table with two traditionalists and only one modernist, he essentially forced a man from a house desperate for allies to skew his responses to political based questions. Simultaneously isolating two parties while putting one under his thumb.[/color]” She said aloud before shifting her eyes guiltily to the side. It seemed that she might have to consider apologizing to the Count… especially after her chat with Lilie.

“[color=f49ac2]There was, however, something else that stood out to me. He has some kind of relationship with that actor, Eris Samael. From the outside, you would assume that the two of them were friends… but based on a few things I’ve seen and speaking to you now, it doesn’t really seem like he’s capable, let alone willing to have such a thing. I’ve always thought it sort of odd, but I suppose there is a lot of opportunity to be had.[/color]” Amaris fell silent for a few more moments as she tried to consider what lesson Salazar was trying his best to teach her.

Salazar listened intently, nodding along with her assessment. [color=1CFF00]"That is exactly what he did. It wasn’t so much that he stacked the room on purpose, it just happened to be a happy coincidence. He saw the opportunity to apply pressure and seized it. And, knowing the Lady he serves, he probably barely lifted a finger during the whole thing and just watched as the scene played out.”[/color] Salazar considered the information Amaris gave him about the actor. [color=1CFF00]“Eris Samael… While I’m not personally acquainted with him, I do know his work and I did come across an odd bit of information recently. For some reason, Varis was funding a rival production studio against the Samaels but recently transferred ownership to the Samaels. Why, I’m not quite sure, but perhaps that can help you if you plan on figuring that out.”[/color]

[color=1CFF00]“Now, we know that the Sinnenodels are short term goal oriented and they don’t trust enough to allow others to handle the issues they face. Which means any success they can achieve, they’ll snatch it up in a second. They have too many things going at any given time with a limited amount of direct attention to always allow a situation to ferment to its greatest potential. They’re impatient and hasty in their obsession for success and that is where we can get them.”[/color] Salazar paused to walk across the room, grab a bottle of blood, and two glasses. He spoke again as he settled back into his chair and poured them both a glass. [color=1CFF00]“Varis’ company has seven years to earn my approval, well within their short term goal orientation. I have no doubt he’ll succeed since my initial goal is to ease the financial burden of our human populace. After that, I’ll offer him a twenty year contract, which also fits nice and neat into the Sinnenodel model, and his company will do a little worse but still much better than we did. After that, a forty year contract which is starting to push the Sinnenodel’s typical strategy timeframe. It’s likely that, since Varris’ tenure will likely come to an end, mistakes will be made and issues exposed.”[/color]

[color=1CFF00]“That’s what I’m waiting for, Amaris. When the Sinnenodel scheming machines break down and fall apart and their mistakes come oozing out, I’m going to light the whole damn thing on fire. I’ve let them in because Varis wanted a win. After failing with his bid for the Astorio paper company, he was desperate and I handed him one on a silver platter but now he’s in my territory, playing by my rules. And when they stumble, I will skewer them for the sun and if I’ve put a few… stumbling blocks in their way, well, no one really needs to know, now do they?”[/color] Salazar asked as he sipped. 

 “[color=f49ac2]So, if I’m understanding this correctly… their greatest strength is simultaneously their greatest weakness. If they always have to be prepared for some sort of shift in the tide they’re not always looking at the bigger picture, making their foundation about as solid as the desert sands. Planning for a long game with that in mind does sound like the optimal strategy but it doesn’t come without risks of its own, does it?[/color]” She questioned. Time ran differently for vampires than it did mortals. Sure, there were likely ways for mages to augment their lifespans to a certain extent, however, that was not a luxury humans had, and it was not nearly enough to be considered a significant amount of time. Especially not when vampires endured for an eternity. 

They were talking about decades as the short term, with forty years only beginning to push the Sinnenodel’s out of their comfort zone. That was nearly half the life expectancy of a healthy human, meanwhile the Sinnenodel’s short term games continued to cause harm wherever they went. Mages and humans already under their direct protection could afford the wait but what about mages like Aaron whose life was tethered to a man who saw benefit in pain? Or Lilie’s unnamed friend whose teacher was allowed to cause him physical harm while refusing access to assistance?

“[color=f49ac2]How do we avoid the loss in trust that we will achieve our goals? Even mages have started to turn their noses up at our name. We have so much pride in something we can offer to so few, with wishes of a world they’ll never know. How many generations can we expect to keep them waiting before they think our efforts are nothing but empty gestures? Do we not do more harm than good offering hope to those that are likely to never see it, will our own charges not eventually feel the guilt of having escaped what others could not? As we speak, my peers are essentially having their vile habits validated and reinforced by our very own rulers… is that not something of importance to us as well?[/color]” Amaris could hear her voice waver despite her own efforts to remain steady. It was still difficult for her to hide her true emotion behind stoic masks, even with Victor’s help. Besides, Salazar could read her like an open book. There wasn’t much she could hide from him.

[color=1CFF00]“While I understand your frustration, the simple fact of the matter is our opinion is in the fierce minority. We have come a long way from the signing of the Treaty but as it stands, we are still ultimately bound to a Traditionalist agenda. The concept of equality does not exist in those who’ve seen mortal kind as livestock for this long and their progeny do not care to disagree because it benefits them. The Council is founded on Traditionalist principles and it has taken five hundred years of fighting and scrapping even to get what little rights they have now.”[/color] Salazar sighed. [color=1CFF00]“With the Eves in disarray, the Sinnenodels and the Astorios command unparalleled influence over the Council. Even the Noilas, with the exception of Princess Ryner, lean traditionalist and while Ryner is a political force to be reckoned with, she cannot stand against both the Queen and her sister. Which is why I’ve turned to targeting higher ranking members of the families and pulling them under our influence. Who knows how long it’ll take the Eves to stabilize even once they have an official head of house and who knows which faction will command them. Unfortunately, short of a drastic shift of the fundamental ethics and morality of the Council and it’s leadership, it could very well take another 500 or 700 years to get anywhere near what you envision.”[/color] Salazar explained.

[color=1CFF00]“And now I sound like your godfather all over again.”[/color] He huffed in amusement before taking another drink.

Amaris heaved a sigh and sunk further into her chair. It was difficult, she understood that, but was there truly nothing they could do in the meantime. She wasn’t expecting everything to turn around immediately, nor even quickly, but there had to be something she could manage in the meantime. Unfortunately, it didn’t seem that she was going to quite get that answer just yet.

“[color=f49ac2]I know, it just feels like I should be doing more. I mean, look at Varis. He’s running companies and signing deals, and scheming all on his own. Victor is a full fledged soldier. And Ben, well, he might be just one of many vying for the lordship but it’s a goal. And then there is me, who can’t even make it through a simple party without losing my cool. I am not feared but I am also not respected, not really. Even I am starting to wonder if I am the family failure.[/color]” As hard as she had been trying, Amaris found herself tapped out of any reserve of energy she had left for class. She tipped her glass back and downed the rest of her drink seeking comfort she wouldn’t find. Amaris moved to set the glass down on a nearby surface, but her fingers hesitated in their departure from the object. Something wasn’t right.

“[color=f49ac2]Hold on a moment… Did you just say godfather? I don’t have a godfather.[/color]”

[color=1CFF00]"I am clearly more tired than I thought.[/color]" Salazar muttered, rubbing his temples. [color=1CFF00]"You aren't supposed to know you have a godfather. Not yet. You have one for an unpleasant reason and you certainly don't need to have that hanging over your head. But before any of that, you aren't the family failure. You sequestered yourself out of grief and as a result you are a little behind your peers. It takes just a little effort to push yourself forward and I have no doubt if you take this experience and use it as motivation, you'll catch up in no time. Don't doubt yourself, Amaris. You're on the precipice of amazing things. All you have to do is jump."[/color]

[color=1CFF00]"As for your godfather, if you wish to know, I will tell you. It isn't pleasant and you won't find him anytime soon but we sounded so much like him, I couldn’t help but laugh."[/color] Salazar chuckles.

It helped uplift her somewhat to hear Salazar speak so kindly about her, though it would likely still take some time for her to believe the sentiment herself. Much of it, however, was overshadowed by the discovery of something brand new. Well, brand new to her anyway. There was a small twinkle of curiosity in her eyes, the one that appeared any time she was presented with something fascinating. It was like the book all over again, forbidden and yet meant for her. But why hide the knowledge of a whole person for so long? What could be so bad?

“[color=f49ac2]I take it you know him well then?[/color]” She figured it might be better to get some of the distractions out of the way sooner rather than later. It wouldn’t do her much good to have the information come back to bite her in the ass later on. “[color=f49ac2]You’ve already dangled the piano, might as well let it drop.[/color]”

He chuckled, taking a moment to compose his thoughts. [color=1CFF00]“Your father never had siblings by blood but there were a group of vampires who he would consider his kin. They knew each other before their turning and their vampirism only brought them closer together. The five of them were dedicated and driven and for a long time, they only cared how they affected each other, until Lord Ralmevik met your mother.”[/color] Salazar’s gaze grew distant as he slipped into the past. [color=1CFF00]“The others didn’t approve when Ralmevik introduced her to them. They called her a distraction and a weight, something that would drag Ralmevik down when she finally died but your father stood his ground and they relented, giving the couple their blessing.”[/color] 

[color=1CFF00]“Your father took those words to heart though. He knew she would die and he would be alone in a world without the woman he loved and it broke his heart. He wanted to turn her but she refused every time. She didn’t have any interest in this life but she offered an alternative. A physical reminder that their love was real, that the memories wouldn’t be consigned to the inexorable march of time. That reminder was you.”[/color] Salazar smiled fondly at Amaris but his laughter was bitter and dark. [color=1CFF00]“Of course, imagine the uproar that caused. His siblings, for a lack of a better phrase, flew into a frenzy. The arguments turned physical and Ralmevik banned them from his property to protect his wife. He put up every defensive countermeasure he could and despite the threats, your parents still had you.”[/color]

[color=1CFF00]“Six months after your conception, they broke through. I had never seen vampires with such vicious fury as I had that night. There was no shred of humanity in them that night, nothing but the monsters we are so often made out to be. We were unprepared and so it took them less than an hour to secure the estate, including myself and your father. We were helpless as they dragged her, kicking and screaming, to a pyre. One of them told him her death would purge this unnecessary distraction from him.”[/color] Salazar shivered involuntarily. [color=1CFF00]“Your father was begging for them to stop. Groveling in front of them like a dog. That image still haunts me, illuminated by the fire as he was. Thankfully, this isn’t how that story ends.”[/color]

[color=1CFF00]“One moment they were dragging your mother to the pyre and the next everyone was deathly still. No one could move except this strange man who skipped into the estate like he owned the place, cackling like it was the most amusing thing he’d ever seen. But he got the others to release us and sent us on our way, promising to take care of it. Ralmevik spoke with him for a little before we left but I don’t know what he said.”[/color] Salazar stayed quiet for a while. [color=1CFF00]“I’ve only seen two of them since. But the strange man is who your father made your godfather, Cydril Sinnenodel.”[/color]

It was very possible that she might have underestimated the gravity of the information she had requested. She had expected a piano, and instead had received the entire orchestra. From the very start of Salazar’s tale, Amaris found herself on the edge of her seat as she hung onto every word. Clearly her mother had not been burned alive while carrying her child, otherwise the countess would not be sitting across from the lord to hear the story. But knowing the outcome of her birth did little to quell the anticipation of how things turned out ok. Well, ‘ok’ was relative at this point wasn’t it? By the end of it all, she was reeling from a mixture of pure shock and information overload. Was that why her father had always been so protective of her? Was that why she was hidden away from the same spotlight others were thrust into? It was all a bit much to take in at once, but there was something out of the entire thing that caught her immediate attention.

“[color=f49ac2]Cydril… I’ve heard that name before.[/color]” She mused, trying to remember where it might have been. If memory served, it had been during a conversation with Ryner. The very same one that ended in her revealing a book of magic spells that was supposedly unique to the house of Marivaldi. She was certain that when Ryner mentioned her father, it was as if she was speaking about an old friend, nickname and all… But there was another she had mentioned, a man that was always butting heads with him over the most ridiculous things.

“[color=f49ac2]He’s… He’s a Sinnenodel?[/color]”

[color=1CFF00]“Technically, yes. His own agendas align poorly with the family so if he were to resurface, I have no doubt he’d be stripped of that name and then put to death.”[/color] Salazar laughed at her astonishment. [color=1CFF00]“Cydril Sinnenodel and your father shared similar goals but were drastically different in their execution. Both of them wanted to see mortals and vampires stand as equals but where as your father preferred the slow and steady route, using the Council to build support and trust in a public system, Cydril would burn it to the ground and start again. In fact, he very nearly succeeded along with an Astorio. Cydril was instrumental in nearly toppling the Asotio power structure about three hundred years ago.”[/color] Salazar gave Amaris a long, calculating look.

“Now, where did you hear that name from?” He asked.

Amaris looked apprehensively at Salazar, suddenly nervous to answer his question. While she had done nothing wrong, it still somehow felt as if she had been caught somewhere she wasn’t meant to be. There wasn’t, however, much point in lying to him at this point.

“[color=f49ac2]Princess Ryner. The day she met with me about the book I had, I may or may not have accused her of thinking my father a traitor. She told me about some silly nickname he hated, and mentioned how he and Cydril used to be at each other’s throats over stupid things. It was only in passing, but I definitely remember that she said Cydril, she just never mentioned that he was a Sinnenodel. I suppose it makes sense as to why.[/color]” She finally explained, before her expression twisted to one of confusion.

“[color=f49ac2]There’s just one things that doesn’t quite add up though. When Ryner spoke about my father and Cydril, she spoke as if she were a part of their group. That would be absolutely ridiculous, right? I mean, even if she technically was, it’s not like all ten of the others had it out for mother and I. Right Salazar?[/color]” 

Salazar held her gaze for a long while. [color=1CFF00]“Ryner was part of that group. I can’t claim to understand what was going through their minds then but there hasn’t been any ill will since that incident. If anything, we’ve gotten along even better than before.”[/color] Salazar leaned back in his chair with a sigh. [color=1CFF00]“They’re dangerous vampires, Amaris. Use their resources if they offer them but do not, under any circumstances, trust them.”[/color]

“[color=f49ac2]I let her near my face with a knife.[/color]” Amaris sighed, hand reaching up to touch the memory of the cut. Despite her concerns, there was one thing that she did believe, and that was that Salazar was telling the truth. Ryner had plenty of opportunity to throw her to the wolves if she so desired, but instead she had offered help. Went so far as to protect her from her own sister regarding the book. Ill will or not, however, it wasn’t a very warm and fuzzy feeling.

[color=1CFF00]“And you’re none the worse for it, it seems.”[/color] Salazar pushed his chair back as he stood, stretching as he did. [color=1CFF00]“Our conversation turned unexpectedly heavy. Why don’t we continue this another night? I’ve missed my nightly walks and I would love it if you joined us.”[/color]

“[color=f49ac2]We’re starting to make this a habit, you know.[/color]” She tried to laugh off the tension, succeeding somewhat, but perhaps not completely. “[color=f49ac2]Yeah, I think a nighttime walk sounds lovely right about now.[/color]”

[/hider]