Bert Macklin

Of Blood and Magic

That was as good a reaction as Ben could get, or at the very least it was his leading assumption. Laughter had been his initial guess at a reaction but this time it looked like honesty paid off. How curious. He could use his father as a plug here as even he wouldn't deny his fondness for Ben's mother. No, he would remain steady and continue. For now, Ben would count his good fortune that he hadn't been immediately dismissed. Varis had yet to give an actual opinion on him and was probing for answers to questions he hadn't asked; a vampire who had questions hadn't closed the door.

Were he honest he wouldn't necessarily label his beliefs but he was acutely aware how each side seemed to reject him. Modernist leaning was as accurate as it could get, he supposed. Fortunately they did agree change was long overdue. Unfortunately his next line of questioning painted Ben in a poor light. He could not admit his ways were discreet nor could he not give a response. He would need to tread carefully; a thought that continuously plagued his mind even if he thought that the conversation was going relatively well. The only part he hadn't expected was essentially having an audience; neither Countess Marivaldi nor Count Astorio had any contribution, and Eris did not count. The latter probably had some snark reserved for this very moment. Very well.

"Most of my life has been enscripted to my father's tutelage and thus I was for a time wrapped up in rebellion—and there is nothing more rebellious to a traditionalist than finding their children wrapping themselves in modernism," Ben said. "I will admit a large part of it was spite as for a time I believed that striking out on my own was the proper thing to do. While it was doomed for failure I did find it shaped my beliefs as your comment earlier has nailed my general profile: a traditionalist with modern leanings. I find merit in some modern policies but feel that they have a tendency to go too far; it isn't necessarily compromise that is needed, but instead a refocus on the issues."

"And of course there is also the years spent on breeding the family weimaraners and decades of crossbow and archery, but I won't bore you with those," Ben concluded.

Of Blood and Magic

I've already lost one heir's approval, would you have me lose another? Ben thought. Having the memory of a dead mage as motivation wasn't endearing to any traditionalist, let alone a Sinnenodel. But completely lying was risky; were he ever called out on it in the future it could come back to haunt him. However, without any sort of friction, he could end up looking subservient. He needed to continue on the path of half-truths and carefully navigate the conversation. A basis was really all he needed without Delia's name ever being mentioned. At that thought, he had an idea.

"If I do gain the seat, unfortunately any ideas I have would have to wait until the dust settled; suggesting anything outside of the status quo would result in even more attempts at my life. It'd be just a touch embarrassing to hold the seat for so little time before getting to do anything with it," Ben joked. "In a world without consequence where everything would go my way, however, I would...what is that mortal phrase? 'Out with the old and in with the new'? Taking the reins from the older generation to give a chance for anyone else would be something to behold. If one is set in their ways with the inability to adapt, it certainly leaves things stale."

"As for my motivation...Laugh if you will, but mine stems from my mother," Ben said. "A brilliant woman in life, she served my father with gusto and pride 'til the end of her life. Even as her body decayed her mind remained sharp and she refused to let anything stop her. As a child I was starstruck and admired her, and seeing as how my father charged her with my upbringing, I believe he also held respect for her as well. Her memory is always with me with every decision I make."

It was more emotional than expected but he would lay it out there; his mother truly was a source of inspiration from him and he wasn't afraid to admit it.

Of Blood and Magic

The night Ben met a vampire without an ego was the day he would actually be in trouble. At time it was seen with disdain and those with pride argue that giving an inch was in poor taste but it had yet to play out poorly for him. He was a touch surprised that Count Sinnenodel found history so fascinating as his statement seemed to counter his previous speech. To his credit Ben was simply not a man of that type of knowledge but he would endeavor to at the very least make an effort in educating himself. Perhaps Lilie could give him that thing Noah had mentioned once, something about driving notes off of a cliff. It did not sound right but if it meant an abridged version of everything then he was certain he could keep his attention on it.

The time had come to rein himself in as the count turned his attention to him at last. Ben was only surprised at the timing of all things; he was so sure he wouldn't have had any time at all to prepare himself. Letting his guard down wasn't wise but at the very least Ben felt no nervousness. He was ready. Ready as he would ever be, anyway.

"Should the opportunity arise sooner than later I would like to put an end to any current issues; why it has taken so long to put a relatively simple issue on mage reproduction to bed is worrying. Mages lack the foresight and experience that we immortals have, and with that in mind there is no question which way Count Dracul's vote would have went," Ben said. "I'll spare you the uninteresting details but I also believe mages' rights has been an unproductive thorn in the Council's side and I would personally see to it that the issue is indefinitely put down to rest."

Down in the mages' favor, of course, but that went without saying. A Sinnenodel would not like to hear that even if Ben was certain he was aware of it.

Of Blood and Magic

Oh goodness, Ben thought. He had not expected Count Sinnenodel to show such zest for the topic at hand. Admitting that could have gone poorly but it seemed that the count did not hold it against him; for the better, losing the favor of both heirs would have been quite the blow. Nonetheless it did make for a pleasant lecture. If Ben were the sort to enjoy such things he was sure he would be more appreciative. Fortunately this was still a dinner and he was used to all sorts of rambling and knew how to keep invested despite the threat of boredom. He did, however, appreciate that the topic was fascinating, fortunately.

What held no interest to him on the other hand was Eris. What should have no hold over his attention was how he handled the poor mage. Aaron went through the situation with an unbreakable composure wasted on a lech but interrupting would be rude. Bailing a mage out of an unpleasant situation would also hurt both mage and vampire. Ben would, however, simply pretend Eris did not exist the entirety of the interaction and focused on how an ignorant man such as he could possibly reply in a way that wouldn't make himself sound completely clueless.

"I would be happy to take you up on that offer," Ben said the only response that was appropriate. "Her Highness picked the right man for Treaty Law."

Of Blood and Magic

"A shame indeed; I hope you'll come to your senses sooner than later," Ben met the glance with a pointed one of his own. He wasn't entirely surprised the countess failed to understand anything that he said; he may as well have spoken to a brick wall, at the very least he would have no one to blame but himself for wasting his time. The real shame is how utterly clueless someone of your position is, Ben thought. Oh, the things he could accomplish had he the privilege of being born lucky. Instead the one that fills the seat is someone who has done nothing and is content to do nothing. What a nice, sheltered, comfortable life the countess lived. However, she could remain on her high horse far away from him—he had no need for such a clueless little girl. The alternative wasn't particularly attractive but he doubted his father would mind getting a Sinnenodel seal of approval at the very least. He could also circumvent the countess entirely. Yes, that seemed like a better idea.

The mention of an organization did make Ben curious. He was aware there were those eccentric vampires but he wasn't aware Eris would ever deign to associate with one. Either he held the viscountess in high regard or made the comment simply to provoke him. Possibly both. The idea of someone dedicating themselves to collecting mages of a kind was curious. If he could stomach a civil conversation with Eris, he would need to find out more, if only to sate his curiosity.

The conversation shifted as Count Sinnenodel intended but with very little of Ben's interest. History in general was a topic that bored him to tears as he was more focused on both the present and the future. He chose to indulge himself in the Marivaldi mage's blood and found he enjoyed it. This was the sort of sweetness he could get used to as he found it sophisticated. He knew very little of the mage but he was certain after their previous conversation that Lilie would have much to tell him sooner than later. For now he would be content in the presence of Aaron Starag as he entertained the idiot star. Watching the blond mage serve was also something of a small, unappreciated joy he had. There was always a way mages held themselves and their ability to blend into the background was something Ben wished he could do at times. It would be out of place if he were to speak to him right now but he hoped he could catch him at a later time. At least he and Eris agreed on one thing—Aaron Starag would go far should his master allow him.

"The flattery is well earned," Ben said. To the topic at hand, he replied, "I don't believe I know much of Morgan le Fey. My history is not at its best, I admit, but I was always under the impression that Landar Starag was the bigger component to the Treaty."

Of Blood and Magic

I was not expecting this, Ben thought. To say he was surprised was an understatement; he hadn't expected the conversation to turn in such a sharp direction. Or rather, he hadn't expected the attention to steer away from him. He was so sure that his reveal would have gotten a stronger response. At the very least a jab of disapproval? A snarl of disinterest? A roll of the eyes? He was certain the insults were on the tip of their tongues, and Eris did not disappoint in that sense by comparing Lilie to a broken glass.

What he had not anticipated, however, was Countess Marivaldi's response. There were many rumors that shrouded the countess in fog, leaving much of her personal life a mystery but one thing remained clear: she upheld equality for all in true Marivaldi form. However, even Lord Salazar realized that in the presence of others a certain image had to be upheld, that even if your house had some ideals, it did not mean it was universally shared. If that were the case, both Count Sinnenodel and Count Astorio wouldn't stick to table manners with all hope of civility gone. Were he younger, perhaps he would share her views, but life had already taught him that wishful thinking would only lead down bad roads. Her naivete was comparable to Lilie's, albeit the latter had the excuse of living in an entirely different world until now. A sheltered heiress was a dangerous thing to behold, he felt.

That was also speaking without her thinly veiled insult added. It was almost flattering to think that the countess presumed Lilie to be a diamond in the first place without knowing her. Ben would have to consult with Lilie to be sure, but considering the girl fled whenever a vampire so much as looked at her, he knew it was safe to assume that the two had no relationship, let alone a shared conversation. He had to admit he was insulted; after pouring so much time and effort into making sure Lilie would be presentable and guiding her step=by-step to see her exceed expectations and succeed, that the countess would make such grand assumptions was asinine at worst and wholly naïve at best.

Ben honestly could not believe he was sharing the same sentiment as a Sinnenodel as he listened to the host's questions. These were careful considerations Ben held as well on a daily basis. That even the Astorio count agreed put the countess in an odd position. No, what sealed the deal was Eris who had been the first to call the countess out, even if his follow-up line of questioning made Ben want to roll his eyes. Did the star think him so naïve that he had yet to consider his own long term plans? He was still deliberating, yes, but that didn't mean he had a few ideas floating around. If she were to become a decent show mage, he could prove her merit that way and keep her around, otherwise he was more than willing to release her to whoever wanted her. Even so, he wanted to make one thing very clear.

"With all due respect, Countess, I don't believe you have any idea what you are talking about," Ben said. "You speak of my mage as if you know her personally and are making some wild assumptions that have no place in this conversation. The factual, unbiased truth of the matter is anything and everything Miss Dionne has come to know is irrelevant in her new life. Humans and vampires have such different standards and ideals for even day-to-day living that nearly everything she knows is essentially worthless. Had I left her as she was, the life of a mage—even to a common vampire—would have proven a struggle. as one insult to the wrong person would earn her a one way ticket to the mines. Perhaps someone of your stature can get away with such things and speak so freely, but I know my place. I only implore you to come down from your sophomoric pedestal as your words clearly come from someone with many privileges and little experience in the real world."

He had no reason to explain himself any further as he refused to do so to someone so hopelessly naïve. Of course, he could hear his father berating him for deterring the countess away but he wasn't about to sacrifice his own pride and allow a holier-than-thou countess try to dictate his decisions. Lilie's consent was invaluable and seeing someone assume that he had forced her to display a budding talent was ridiculous. And now for the actor's thinly veiled commentary; at the very least Eris was the same as ever.

"Not all mages are gathered or even gifted solely for breeding purposes. While my Eleanore was wed to the previous Luscin heir, it was a marriage of convenience as she is also a talented air mage suited to be a bodyguard," Ben said. "Now she serves that very purpose. I also have a multitude of mages for various tasks: gardening, cleaning, organizational...every mage has their place in my estate and Miss Dionne shall be no exception. If the time comes that she is incapable of adapting or living up to the expectations that I keep for all my mages, then I will have to think differently. The academy provides ample time for Miss Dionne to prove herself."

Ben had no problem admitting that much as even now he still wasn't entirely sure what to do with Lilie. No one needed to know that at the moment and he was certain he'd find a place for her.

Of Blood and Magic

Were it not for the fact that he was guest of honor, Ben would have dreaded the incoming questioning. He had long since accepted him and anticipated the next series of replies ranging from shock to those of mockery; he was certain the Sinnenodel himself would revel in the little secret Ben had admittedly worked to keep under wraps. Fortunately this was only temporary as his own mages' lineage back home had been pristine and he was still fielding offers for Noah even this very night. Unfortunately that did not give him any comfort as he was once again reminded of his place. Perhaps the Sinneodel was fully aware and simply wanted to watch him squirm.

Ah. You'd very much like to revel in hearing the Eve house getting shafted, Ben thought. If so, he would disappoint in that aspect. His pride was intact regardless of what the princess believed and he simply saw Lilie as another challenge to overcome. Tonight was a show of that as well. Even without Eris' silly comparison Lilie did splendidly and made an impression. He did not change his expression as he placed his own cup down, satisfied with the sweetness of her blood as he decided to knock out Countess Marivaldi and Sir Pompous' questions in one go.

"The Tender Land was my mother's favorite opera towards the end of her life. Laurie's Song was complex enough to set a proper goal while testing to see the mage's capabilities. She adapted surprisingly well, I believe this will surely be her defining talent going forward," Ben said. "There is improvement to be made as it is with every mortal, but I enjoy cultivating. She may not attain Widow Nailo's level of prestige, but she will give an acceptable performance sooner than later, I'm confident of that. I'm certain my next goal will be to have her perform at one of Duchess Perez' parties. It will be good experience for her future."

Overconfident, yes, but Ben needed to raise Lilie up somewhat before speaking ill of her next. There was no way around it nor would delaying it do him any favors. At the very least he could gauge their reactions easily and would give him an idea on how to navigate the rest of the (bound to be) unpleasantness that would surely follow. Oh, the joy of conversing with the nobility. A small part of him did have to admit he did miss this. At minimum it would keep him sharp. Before he would speak next, however, he did make sure to look directly at the host who asked.

"Whimsical is a kind way to put it, Count Sinnenodel," Ben said. "Unfortunately it is not a choice. Lilie suffers from a rare, genetic defect called albinism that came from her human lineage. Due to her lack of training in etiquette, I have chosen to ease her into the mage lifestyle and prioritized behaviors over appearance due to the short time she has been in my possession. Sooner than later I will arrange for a professional hairdresser to best advise on how to take care of that issue."

And there it was out in the world. Now they could gawk and laugh as much as their hearts desired. Ben reminded himself that he needed to ask Noah to look into her family tree sooner than later. For now he decided to take another sip of his drink, enjoying the sweetness and putting on a polite smile as he eagerly awaited the commentary that was sure to come. He already knew he would be critiqued for not taking care of her appearance first, but that was his decision to make. Truthfully it was something he was slowly building Lilie's trust for; he was certain once she was less wary of him the conversation would go well. He personally thought she would make a very nice blonde.

Of Blood and Magic

The array of talents displayed by the mages was a delightful and pleasant surprise. There were some whose talents shined more than others but overall Ben enjoyed everything from start to finish. He remained his polite applause throughout with a relatively neutral expression, only wishing the show continued for just a moment longer. Anything would have sufficed to quell the belated dread forming in his chest. For one, his dream of a relaxed evening had all but fluttered through the wind the moment he laid eyes on that pompous asshole. Why Eris Samael was here was beyond him; if their conversation held as much merit as he had initially assumed, the two lovers were quarreling. Perhaps they made up by now. Perhaps Count Sinnenodel had caught wind on how much of a bane to his existence Eris was. Just the sight of that hint of a smirk on said vampire's face was almost enough to give Ben vicious thoughts and fantasies where he could wipe the look off his face with a simple, yet effective punch.

But the overblown peacock was not his current concern, his presence as unwelcoming as it was. Dancing in the tall grass with a snake coming around was a risk he was willing to take, however, he was not as eager to dance with so many people around. Until now, he had interacted at a base, neutral tone with Count Sinnenodel. Now that the rest of the nobles were around he would have to ensure he remained perfectly neutral for all intents and purposes. Except neutrality could be misinterpreted as weakness to a Sinnenodel, so it was best he replied in kind. Except disrespect without the might to back it up wouldn't impress an Astorio. There was also the countess to consider, and the growing thorn in his side that was that blonde idiot. Needless to say while he was up for the challenge of juggling every relationship, Ben was just a touch stressed.

The introduction did little to surprise him. Eris Samael must have been over the moon to be introduced first. Was it possible that it was a statement of sorts? It was bold and a waste in his opinion. To be fair, Count Sinnenodel could have introduced a sack of flour first and Ben would have found that much more suitable. He was, however, surprised at the comment that followed. He wasn't aware Eris had dipped into the political field farther than gaining access to the Sinnenodel Dorm on the weekly. Or is that what they were calling it these days? He would have to think about it. He was glad to see Count Astorio and Countess Marivaldi at least, his polite smile nearly betraying him at his comment on the Astorio. Playing school was what they were all doing considering each of them were only here due to Her Highness' summons. The lack of comment on Countess Marivaldi did at least tell him they were equally clueless to her intentions. How oddly comforting.

"I am honored to make your acquaintance. Truly," Ben said. His response was punctuated by a swig of his own glass, the sweetness familiar to him. "Watching the budding mages display their skills and knowing which way to direct them is a valuable if not necessary ability among the nobility."

He paid the comment and didn't care much how it would be taken. It was one way to start a conversation while he could see what the other nobles would respond with.

Of Blood and Magic

His smile came almost unwillingly; at least there was someone who appreciated his little talent. Putting it to good use was satisfying as well. Ben turned back to the box he had brought in and plucked a pair of chandelier earrings and held Lilie still while he carefully looped them through her ears. He would be the first to admit he was likely going a touch overboard with the accessorizing, but he was treating the small gathering as he would any other gathering. Even if the Sinnenodel thought it wasted on someone like Lilie, Ben was a consistent man if anything. His fingers traced the diamonds as he inspected them carefully, releasing them as he pulled out a ring bearing the Eve House's crest and slipped it around her finger.

"I have a tendency to pick up the odd hobby every other year or so to keep myself busy. I was a rambunctious child in my youth so it stems from there," Ben said. "My father believed if I kept my hands busy it would keep me busy. He was half-right." He lightly mused to himself that that must have been why he was so intent on tea-making. Was it truly that long since his last indulgence?

He gave himself a moment to think as he clasped a thin tennis bracelet around Lilie's wrist. The correct answer was that she should come to him for anything and everything, but that was not the correct answer to something like this. Perhaps a passcode or something of sorts could be set up as he had established previously with mages he had trained. However, he was convinced this was a good exercise for the new mage to test the waters. Pulling out the last of the jewelry set, he watched Lilie's reflection in the mirror as he put together his thoughts.

"If it is the most urgent of emergencies, I bid you find me right away. You needn't say a word as your presence alone is enough to warn me that something has happened and I will excuse us. I urge you use your judgment to do what is best for you," Ben said. "Running from a difficult situation is a statement in and of itself. You must remain confident, sturdy against the tides, and above all else never let anyone take your pride away. No one can make you feel inferior without your consent."

The necklace he placed on her chest was nearly identical in design to the usual pendant she wore with the exception of said design putting silver on a whole diamond. It glittered beautifully, perhaps too much for his usual taste, but all subtlety was gone for him at this point. He placed both his hands on her shoulders as he glanced at her reflection. There was no more time to build confidence or character but he felt alright about this.

"Absolutely enchanting. Come, my dear, it is time for us to go. I would very much like to be the first to arrive as it is my duty as guest of honor," Ben said. The bottle of blood was ready for them on their way out and there was nothing left to do but to take the few steps needed to the dorm next door.

Of Blood and Magic

Ben could not for the life of him figure out what he wanted to do with his hair. His attire was along his usual line of boring but practical as he could not get himself to care much about what he actually looked like, however, he was starting to have second thoughts about it and nearly everything else tonight. He was a little nervous, yes, as expected when anyone interacted with any Sinnenodel no matter how high or low they were on the order of inheritance; and he was acutely aware that Varis was the current heir for a reason. Perhaps he should have made some attempt at some pizazz.

It was too late for those thoughts but at the very least he did look different from his usual self. He did appear more sharply dressed so he secretly hoped that the difference alone would make up for the choice in suit. In his defense the suit was more modern than his usual dated choices as his mages loved to point out. At the very least he would only be under one critical eye as he highly doubted Count Astorio cared much about appearance and Countess Marivaldi didn't seem to fret on that.

He decided to leave his hair loose and decided to check on his mage. For just a moment he nearly assumed someone else had taken her place. To his joy she had been transformed and were it not for the absence of color on her head he would very much think her as any other mage. He did wonder when he should broach that topic but he supposed it was too late now. At the very least it could endear Countess Marivaldi to his side further as it would show he accepted mages regardless of their flaws. That would not tide over well with Count Sinnenodel and he was certain he would hear more than one comment on that. The princess' words came to mind and he wondered if his intention to get both heirs on his side was too ambitious.

Lilie's words brought a small smile to his face as he freely walked into her room. He noticed a detail on the back of her dress needed to be taken care of. He lightly pulled the zipper up to its full height and made sure the hook kept it all together. Now it was perfect.

"In this scenario, we are looking to impress as I am the guest of honor. I suggest daring," Ben said. "I'll make quick work of your hair, give me just a moment."

Ben strode into Lilie's bathroom with confidence as he grabbed what was necessary. With tools in hand Ben took care to be gentle. He kept in mind the style he wanted and fortunately the length allowed him to do what he wanted in excess. By the time he finished, her head was aloft with a pair of braids leading up to a tousled bun. He felt it was appropriate enough for the image he had in mind and opened up the box. Within was a small assortment of decorative hair pins in the shape of leaves which he took care to place in various spots along both braid and bun.

"There is beauty in simplicity and that is something I intend to capitalize on tonight. Mages are to be seen and not heard; I assure you, you will be seen," Ben said. "Remember to keep yourself poised as you represent me tonight. It may be tempting to let your guard down around familiar faces but tonight is an exercise in caution. Build upon those relations and do not let your guard down. If at any time you are addressed by any noble you speak only when directly spoken to."

He had sincerely hoped that their practice would come to fruition tonight. It was difficult to predict a Sinnenodel and he would have to make sure his attention was focused on the snake himself; he could not afford to worry much about what happened among the mages. Fortunately the setting would eliminate any chance of any unsavory actions and he didn't think anyone would try anything. Of course one never knew what a Sinnenodel planned so he only hoped any ill intentions would be aimed primarily at him. It would be good practice for him as well for the future.