( It's said with a humorous tone, as Lenore finds the idea of Dracula looking for responses to slights in his vast library incredibly entertaining. Still, there are millions of things that a man as powerful as Dracula could be doing with her time. But Lenore knows better than to judge too much. Some people are just inherently eccentric, such as her sister Carmilla. She's dealt with her for far too long to be shocked about strange behavior.
As for the conversation on the nature of vampires, Lenore doesn't mind indulging Alucard's curiosities and theories. She's thought on the matter quite a bit herself, though discussing it with her family isn't exactly something she wants to do. 'Why are you thinking about useless things, Lenore?' She can practically hear their voices. )
I understand what you mean and I think it may be right. It does make some bit of sense. After all, our senses are heightened, so why would it be so strange that something like that would occur?
( A laugh is heard from Lenore once again as Alucard drains his glass. She mirrors the action with her own before speaking once again. )
No, not an animal. But think of it like a sandwich. Would you be as eager to eat the sandwich if someone had stuck their penis into it first?
Mmm. I'm curious, since your own territory is considered well managed and with few incidents: what are the hobbies in your own home?
[Both her and her sisters, he means. If nothing else, there is a stability to Styria's vampire lands that are often not reflected in other parts of Europe. Some of it is down to personality, Alucard is sure, but that must leave free time. Plus stability is room for eccentricity to grow in.]
Precisely. And unless you're inclined towards self reflection, I don't know if it is something that one might notice. The personalities of those I've met are so...over the top, I'll say, that I don't know how frequently that even happens.
[Yeah, that? That deserves Alucard just reaching for the bottle of wine and refilling his glass nearly to the rim.]
Again: why is it different from other forms of livestock that you know have rutted? The comparison doesn't hold up. Unless you're saying that it's more akin to a first pressing of olive oil, in which case I think I comprehend that.
Don't be too impressed. It's likely fear keeping things together there. My sisters aren't exactly the most well rounded of individuals. Carmilla's favorite hobbies are drinking virgin blood and thinking up grandiose plans, after which she locks herself away for days on end. She thinks herself a genius of sorts. Striga enjoys planning military missions and spending her time with Morana. And Morana...
( This is when Lenore makes a face of clear distaste. There's a bit of a pause as she considers her next words. There isn't much to lose by telling Alucard the truth, honestly, so that's exactly what she does. )
She's incredibly cruel. Her favorite thing to do is torture people for her own amusement.
( She looks back to Alucard and offers a small, mirthless smile, shrugging her shoulders gently. If Lenore could change their nature, she certainly would. It would make her own work easier, that's for sure. But alas. They all play a role and as such, are necessary to keep around. The mention of personalities being over the top goes hand in hand with her description of her sisters. )
You're likely right. And it seems like your experience with them is close to the one I've had. They're so caught up in one thing or another that considering something like that would seem ridiculous. It's nice to be able to speak with someone who is able to think outside of the box.
( The amusement filters back into her expression as she watches him refill his glass entirely. She sits back in her chair and pushes her hair back over her shoulder, lips quirking upward into a small grin. )
Perhaps it is more like the olive oil, then. It doesn't really matter so much to me, personally. But others may have issue when thinking too deeply on the source of their blood and consider it a delicacy.
Fear, maybe, but it also seems complementary interests. Beyond the violence, one person comes up with plans, there's someone military minded, and a third to do the sort of intelligence that backs up the other two. You come in and balance it all out regardless of any teasing or opinions they hold. That? That actually is impressive when you stop and think about it as a system.
[Perhaps it is an overly generous compliment, but Alucard can see the logic in the arrangement as it is. Even as he flinches at the mention of torture, because yeah. That's not great, human or vampire.
He did ask for details though, so he's no one to blame for that unpleasant fact entering the discussion but himelf.]
It's incredibly enjoyable on my end as well. I've...[how to put this politely?] I've often felt it safer to stay at arm's length from both parts of my heritage, due to how distinctly different I am in perspective. You're probably the first vampire I've met where I haven't been concerned about that fact.
[Sometimes, one sees just enough to understand why they've been sheltered and to just retreat back into it. It's genuinely nice, being proven wrong.]
( She can't help but simply watch him for a moment, her brows raised in surprise at the generous compliment he gives her. Honestly, it's more than she's used to, as she's considered the weakest among the four women and her role requires a soft touch. She isn't above manipulation, of course. It comes with the territory. But still.
Actually feeling a bit bashful for once, which is an incredibly rare occurrence, she glances to the side with a small smile on her lips. )
Thank you. Truly. The system does well enough and, as I said, everyone has a role to play. I think without any one person, it would throw things out of balance. I don't even want to think about Carmilla without anyone to temper her...eccentricities.
( She looks back to him, her expression showing that she's pleased with what he says about their first meeting. If he felt any other way, she might think twice about whether she was suited to be a diplomat, after all. And, well...She is more soft-hearted than most vampires. Just a little. )
I can imagine that it would be hard to find someone you feel comfortable speaking with at length. Both sides do have a violent streak, but I'm glad that you don't feel concerned around me. I don't bite, really. Not unless you want me to.
( She offers a playful little wink before nodding her head, ginger hair brushing against her cheeks once again. )
I couldn't agree more. I just worry that any other hobbies they found would be worse than the last.
I don't know her through any means but reputation, but I imagine that somehow, Carmilla might still be...I don't want to say okay, but manifested the eccentricity in a constructive manner. [Constructive for her, at least. Alucard doesn't imagine she'd build a castle like his father's, a temple to science and magic and all of knowledge of the immortals. It'd take another form, although what might form the foundation is a mystery.
What do vampires build their immortal lives on anyway? Godbrand has his drink and lust for unlife, but he's also just mad. These four are focused on leadership and military might, and they've created a stable area for themselves. Others? Alucard hasn't met enough of them yet.
The bite comment gets a soft snort, because it is a truly awful joke. It'd be like saying "I don't drink...wine" in the future around a Belmont, after that damn movie gets made.]
Mm, now there's an awful idea. [Although it is a curious one that will come back to nestle in Alucard's head soon enough.] I imagine that your work creates a similar feeling of striving for balance and being concerned about both sides, no?
[Alucard reaches for more of the cheese, quietly noting that there's precious little of it left. He may have to get up and add more at this rate.]
If they're not making people into boats, then things are generally looking up.
You're probably right. She isn't stupid, after all.
( But it's very, very likely that more people would die. Perhaps Carmilla might even make a bath filled with virgin blood to bathe in. Who knew? Still, it probably isn't the best idea to speak too much of her sister to Alucard. At least, not her bad qualities, lest it reflect poorly on the rest of them. She's supposed to build bridges, not let others know that the foundation is shaky, given the right pressure.
She nods at his comment, reaching out to pick up another piece of fruit to slip into her mouth. She chews her snack and swallows before deciding to answer him. After all, it's rude to speak with one's mouth full. )
Indeed. It's not very easy work, getting two opposing forces to make concessions and work together with one another, but it is incredibly fulfilling. I suppose I'm just good at understanding people, which is what makes me good at my job.
( A pretty face and small, unassuming stature certainly don't hurt. Most vampires don't think much of her in terms of physical ability, which is likely why they can lower their guard around her. The mention of making people into boats causes Lenore to laugh, waving one of her hands dismissively. )
They haven't gotten that far yet, thankfully. I'm afraid I might have to draw the line at building boats out of people.
[And whatever that entails. Alucard's noticed that they both speak in generalities with their families. Enough to give a flavor of what life is like, but not too many specifics. It is a fascinating thing in and of itself, born of how vampires are territorial things, and to know too much of one's personal life is to invite attack and destruction.
Or at least that's how others might read it, and so all the same protections must be in place.]
If it isn't too forward or revealing to ask, how often do you have to use your skills? My impression of Styria has been that is is fairly stable overall, and I doubt that's because your sisters like a quiet life.
[They seem like little well planned chaos gremlins, if Alucard's being super honest.]
Well, reminding them that it's Godbrand's favorite hobby might be enough to make them stop.
( Perhaps if Lenore knew Alucard better, she would feel more comfortable revealing more in depth details of their lives in Styria. But for now, he'll have to settle with just the most basic of details. He is Dracula's son, after all. There's no rush, though. Alucard has many, many years to get to know her better, should that be a thing he desires. It's certainly a thing Lenore wants, but she's learned better than to be too pushy about such things during a first meeting. But who wouldn't want to know him better? He has looks, smarts, and wit all in equal measure.
He has vampires like Godbrand beaten by a mile, that's for sure.
The question pulls her attention back to Alucard, brows raising just a little. She hums softly, crossing her arms lightly beneath her bust as she considers. It isn't something she typically thinks on. If there's work to be done, she simply goes and does it. )
I'd say fairly often. I take care of most things that involve talking to others. Things that require finesse. Sometimes things Carmilla can't be bothered with. It's what I'm good at and enjoy, mostly, so I don't mind taking an active role and being a go between. It's means there's less bloodshed.
( She chuckles softly at the mention of Godbrand, nodding in agreement. )
I may just do that. He's not their favorite person...Then again, I wonder if he's anyone's favorite person.
Mm. That explains the stability. Your land is incredibly fortunate for that. [Or at least part of it. Alucard knows he's not entitled to too much more, but it is a terrible thing to feel as if he's run out of queries.
To the wine then, and taking another sip to buy time and think about where the conversation is best directed from here. The night grows old, and there is still an entire vampire that has to be extracted from her current burrow.
A short little laugh crosses at that comment though.]
I think that he's mostly just a warning to others at this point. Behave or you'll become the butt of jokes and cattiness like he is.
I suppose so. Though, sometimes I think they would jump at the chance for bloodshed. Still, it isn't productive so someone has to steer them away from it.
( Some days, it's a wonder that one of her sisters managed to get through without painting the halls with blood. They were prone to moodiness, after all. The real question is if it is a personality flaw or simply another thing caused by vampirism. Either way, it's something for another time. The night is growing short and there's still the matter of her sister to handle. So after draining the contents left within her glass, Lenore turns her attention back to Alucard, setting it to the side on the table.
Still. It's a shame to have to end her time with the handsome blond. Oh well. )
Godbrand's unpleasantness aside, shall we see to your problem now? Any later and the both of us may end up having to stay the night. And I certainly don't think your father would appreciate that.
( She allows herself to briefly think on that scenario. A furious Dracula. A drunken Striga. Herself and Alucard having spent the better portion of the night together. It isn't a lovely picture for one as easy to anger as Dracula.
Lenore pushes herself up to a stand, taking a brief moment to smooth the dark fabric of her dress, then turns her gaze back to him, a small smile tugging at the corners of her lips. )
Though, I have immensely enjoyed meeting and spending time with you.
[Alucard knows that the words might be cheesy, but that doesn't make them less true. Lenore seems to go above and beyond for her sisters, and it gives a far greater sense of family than he's seen from most of his father's people in the past.
But she is right. The night grows old, and while the dead may travel fast, they still must contend with the sun. Dracula would not show any kindness for uninvited guests, and that means that the enjoyable part of the night must come to an end.]
I think we have no other choice, unfortunately.
[Alucard stands, but he makes sure to move both their wine glasses to the sink.]
I have as well. I think it should be possible to do this again, although perhaps in a neutral territory? I'm not opposed to one of the forests between our lands, so long as there's a fire.
( Honestly? If it weren't for the incredibly dangerous individuals around both of them, she might consider keeping him with her. But she can't imagine someone as pure as Alucard being in the same room with her sisters without being absolutely disgusted by them and a fight breaking out. Even Lenore has moments where they aren't her favorite people. Their views on humans is certainly something of a problem.
She folds her hands together in front of herself and smiles warmly at him, nodding at his comment. It's a surprising one, to be sure, but she's all for the suggestion. )
I'm...honestly surprised. Here I thought that the impression left by my sister might just destroy any desire you had to meet with me again. Either way, I'm more than happy to see you again. Just send word when you want to see me again.
( Lenore waits for Alucard to show her the way to his stairs, thus beginning the process of sister removal. At least it isn't as bad as removing rodents from a residence or something like that. )
[Alucard's aware of the faint tinge of redness on his face, and at least he can start walking towards the door in an effort to hide his face. He's sure that Lenore's judgement would just be adorable, but he'd like to avoid that opinion on top of the first.]
I will. We'll talk means of communication after the problem's solved.
![[personal profile]](https://www.dreamwidth.org/img/silk/identity/user.png){kind=small}
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( It's said with a humorous tone, as Lenore finds the idea of Dracula looking for responses to slights in his vast library incredibly entertaining. Still, there are millions of things that a man as powerful as Dracula could be doing with her time. But Lenore knows better than to judge too much. Some people are just inherently eccentric, such as her sister Carmilla. She's dealt with her for far too long to be shocked about strange behavior.
As for the conversation on the nature of vampires, Lenore doesn't mind indulging Alucard's curiosities and theories. She's thought on the matter quite a bit herself, though discussing it with her family isn't exactly something she wants to do. 'Why are you thinking about useless things, Lenore?' She can practically hear their voices. )
I understand what you mean and I think it may be right. It does make some bit of sense. After all, our senses are heightened, so why would it be so strange that something like that would occur?
( A laugh is heard from Lenore once again as Alucard drains his glass. She mirrors the action with her own before speaking once again. )
No, not an animal. But think of it like a sandwich. Would you be as eager to eat the sandwich if someone had stuck their penis into it first?
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[Both her and her sisters, he means. If nothing else, there is a stability to Styria's vampire lands that are often not reflected in other parts of Europe. Some of it is down to personality, Alucard is sure, but that must leave free time. Plus stability is room for eccentricity to grow in.]
Precisely. And unless you're inclined towards self reflection, I don't know if it is something that one might notice. The personalities of those I've met are so...over the top, I'll say, that I don't know how frequently that even happens.
[Yeah, that? That deserves Alucard just reaching for the bottle of wine and refilling his glass nearly to the rim.]
Again: why is it different from other forms of livestock that you know have rutted? The comparison doesn't hold up. Unless you're saying that it's more akin to a first pressing of olive oil, in which case I think I comprehend that.
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( This is when Lenore makes a face of clear distaste. There's a bit of a pause as she considers her next words. There isn't much to lose by telling Alucard the truth, honestly, so that's exactly what she does. )
She's incredibly cruel. Her favorite thing to do is torture people for her own amusement.
( She looks back to Alucard and offers a small, mirthless smile, shrugging her shoulders gently. If Lenore could change their nature, she certainly would. It would make her own work easier, that's for sure. But alas. They all play a role and as such, are necessary to keep around. The mention of personalities being over the top goes hand in hand with her description of her sisters. )
You're likely right. And it seems like your experience with them is close to the one I've had. They're so caught up in one thing or another that considering something like that would seem ridiculous. It's nice to be able to speak with someone who is able to think outside of the box.
( The amusement filters back into her expression as she watches him refill his glass entirely. She sits back in her chair and pushes her hair back over her shoulder, lips quirking upward into a small grin. )
Perhaps it is more like the olive oil, then. It doesn't really matter so much to me, personally. But others may have issue when thinking too deeply on the source of their blood and consider it a delicacy.
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[Perhaps it is an overly generous compliment, but Alucard can see the logic in the arrangement as it is. Even as he flinches at the mention of torture, because yeah. That's not great, human or vampire.
He did ask for details though, so he's no one to blame for that unpleasant fact entering the discussion but himelf.]
It's incredibly enjoyable on my end as well. I've...[how to put this politely?] I've often felt it safer to stay at arm's length from both parts of my heritage, due to how distinctly different I am in perspective. You're probably the first vampire I've met where I haven't been concerned about that fact.
[Sometimes, one sees just enough to understand why they've been sheltered and to just retreat back into it. It's genuinely nice, being proven wrong.]
They need other hobbies. Many other hobbies.
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Actually feeling a bit bashful for once, which is an incredibly rare occurrence, she glances to the side with a small smile on her lips. )
Thank you. Truly. The system does well enough and, as I said, everyone has a role to play. I think without any one person, it would throw things out of balance. I don't even want to think about Carmilla without anyone to temper her...eccentricities.
( She looks back to him, her expression showing that she's pleased with what he says about their first meeting. If he felt any other way, she might think twice about whether she was suited to be a diplomat, after all. And, well...She is more soft-hearted than most vampires. Just a little. )
I can imagine that it would be hard to find someone you feel comfortable speaking with at length. Both sides do have a violent streak, but I'm glad that you don't feel concerned around me. I don't bite, really. Not unless you want me to.
( She offers a playful little wink before nodding her head, ginger hair brushing against her cheeks once again. )
I couldn't agree more. I just worry that any other hobbies they found would be worse than the last.
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What do vampires build their immortal lives on anyway? Godbrand has his drink and lust for unlife, but he's also just mad. These four are focused on leadership and military might, and they've created a stable area for themselves. Others? Alucard hasn't met enough of them yet.
The bite comment gets a soft snort, because it is a truly awful joke. It'd be like saying "I don't drink...wine" in the future around a Belmont, after that damn movie gets made.]
Mm, now there's an awful idea. [Although it is a curious one that will come back to nestle in Alucard's head soon enough.] I imagine that your work creates a similar feeling of striving for balance and being concerned about both sides, no?
[Alucard reaches for more of the cheese, quietly noting that there's precious little of it left. He may have to get up and add more at this rate.]
If they're not making people into boats, then things are generally looking up.
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( But it's very, very likely that more people would die. Perhaps Carmilla might even make a bath filled with virgin blood to bathe in. Who knew? Still, it probably isn't the best idea to speak too much of her sister to Alucard. At least, not her bad qualities, lest it reflect poorly on the rest of them. She's supposed to build bridges, not let others know that the foundation is shaky, given the right pressure.
She nods at his comment, reaching out to pick up another piece of fruit to slip into her mouth. She chews her snack and swallows before deciding to answer him. After all, it's rude to speak with one's mouth full. )
Indeed. It's not very easy work, getting two opposing forces to make concessions and work together with one another, but it is incredibly fulfilling. I suppose I'm just good at understanding people, which is what makes me good at my job.
( A pretty face and small, unassuming stature certainly don't hurt. Most vampires don't think much of her in terms of physical ability, which is likely why they can lower their guard around her. The mention of making people into boats causes Lenore to laugh, waving one of her hands dismissively. )
They haven't gotten that far yet, thankfully. I'm afraid I might have to draw the line at building boats out of people.
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[And whatever that entails. Alucard's noticed that they both speak in generalities with their families. Enough to give a flavor of what life is like, but not too many specifics. It is a fascinating thing in and of itself, born of how vampires are territorial things, and to know too much of one's personal life is to invite attack and destruction.
Or at least that's how others might read it, and so all the same protections must be in place.]
If it isn't too forward or revealing to ask, how often do you have to use your skills? My impression of Styria has been that is is fairly stable overall, and I doubt that's because your sisters like a quiet life.
[They seem like little well planned chaos gremlins, if Alucard's being super honest.]
Well, reminding them that it's Godbrand's favorite hobby might be enough to make them stop.
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He has vampires like Godbrand beaten by a mile, that's for sure.
The question pulls her attention back to Alucard, brows raising just a little. She hums softly, crossing her arms lightly beneath her bust as she considers. It isn't something she typically thinks on. If there's work to be done, she simply goes and does it. )
I'd say fairly often. I take care of most things that involve talking to others. Things that require finesse. Sometimes things Carmilla can't be bothered with. It's what I'm good at and enjoy, mostly, so I don't mind taking an active role and being a go between. It's means there's less bloodshed.
( She chuckles softly at the mention of Godbrand, nodding in agreement. )
I may just do that. He's not their favorite person...Then again, I wonder if he's anyone's favorite person.
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To the wine then, and taking another sip to buy time and think about where the conversation is best directed from here. The night grows old, and there is still an entire vampire that has to be extracted from her current burrow.
A short little laugh crosses at that comment though.]
I think that he's mostly just a warning to others at this point. Behave or you'll become the butt of jokes and cattiness like he is.
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( Some days, it's a wonder that one of her sisters managed to get through without painting the halls with blood. They were prone to moodiness, after all. The real question is if it is a personality flaw or simply another thing caused by vampirism. Either way, it's something for another time. The night is growing short and there's still the matter of her sister to handle. So after draining the contents left within her glass, Lenore turns her attention back to Alucard, setting it to the side on the table.
Still. It's a shame to have to end her time with the handsome blond. Oh well. )
Godbrand's unpleasantness aside, shall we see to your problem now? Any later and the both of us may end up having to stay the night. And I certainly don't think your father would appreciate that.
( She allows herself to briefly think on that scenario. A furious Dracula. A drunken Striga. Herself and Alucard having spent the better portion of the night together. It isn't a lovely picture for one as easy to anger as Dracula.
Lenore pushes herself up to a stand, taking a brief moment to smooth the dark fabric of her dress, then turns her gaze back to him, a small smile tugging at the corners of her lips. )
Though, I have immensely enjoyed meeting and spending time with you.
no subject
[Alucard knows that the words might be cheesy, but that doesn't make them less true. Lenore seems to go above and beyond for her sisters, and it gives a far greater sense of family than he's seen from most of his father's people in the past.
But she is right. The night grows old, and while the dead may travel fast, they still must contend with the sun. Dracula would not show any kindness for uninvited guests, and that means that the enjoyable part of the night must come to an end.]
I think we have no other choice, unfortunately.
[Alucard stands, but he makes sure to move both their wine glasses to the sink.]
I have as well. I think it should be possible to do this again, although perhaps in a neutral territory? I'm not opposed to one of the forests between our lands, so long as there's a fire.
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( Honestly? If it weren't for the incredibly dangerous individuals around both of them, she might consider keeping him with her. But she can't imagine someone as pure as Alucard being in the same room with her sisters without being absolutely disgusted by them and a fight breaking out. Even Lenore has moments where they aren't her favorite people. Their views on humans is certainly something of a problem.
She folds her hands together in front of herself and smiles warmly at him, nodding at his comment. It's a surprising one, to be sure, but she's all for the suggestion. )
I'm...honestly surprised. Here I thought that the impression left by my sister might just destroy any desire you had to meet with me again. Either way, I'm more than happy to see you again. Just send word when you want to see me again.
( Lenore waits for Alucard to show her the way to his stairs, thus beginning the process of sister removal. At least it isn't as bad as removing rodents from a residence or something like that. )
aaand done!
[Alucard's aware of the faint tinge of redness on his face, and at least he can start walking towards the door in an effort to hide his face. He's sure that Lenore's judgement would just be adorable, but he'd like to avoid that opinion on top of the first.]
I will. We'll talk means of communication after the problem's solved.
[Onto the problem them.]
She's this way, if you'll follow me.