Pure Bloods~Closed

[Perplexia]

Flora de LaCroix looked out of her office window to the bustling street below. Her flowing red hair was piled upon the head of her five foot five inch frame in a neat professional arrangement allowing just a wisp to lay upon her high cheekbone. In her short time since she graduated at the top of her class at college, she had already risen to the top of her profession in advertising.

Some say that it is simply luck, others believe she is overly ambitious, whereas others determine she simply slept her way to the top, or is from a highly influential family. The truth was simply a little of the first and a lot of the second. Growing up in an orphanage she was raised with the knowledge the only way that she was going to make her way in this world was if she did it on her own. Nothing but hand me downs are given to children such as her. A lot of hard work in school instead of bothering with boys, or cliques. Her reading interest seemed to take a turn with puberty toward reading all she could find on witches and fantasy type stories.

Things did tend to come rather easily to her. She had never been silly enough to actually try a spell, or make something move. Though she did find when she spoke with conviction, people tended to pay attention. Men had always seemed to be interested in her, whether it was her attractiveness, her confidence, her income, or her bright green eyes. The only thing she learned in life is the only one she could depend on was herself, and nothing was given without some form or reciprocation.

“Madame” her train of thought was interrupted by her secretary. “Yes Linda” she replied while still looking out the window. “Your travel arrangements have been made, your car has been reserved, as well as the cottage reservation. I’ve also confirmed your meeting with Lord Vandread, and as it's such a great distance to Varisa, your appointments for the next two weeks have been pushed forward as to allot you the time you requested to put together a presentation with another appointment set four days after your first as you requested.

“Wonderful thank you” she said with little emotion. She’d always wanted to see the world. If her questions were accurate enough she should have everything he wanted ready at the first meeting and be able to relax and embrace the culture of this unique ancient land. She was glad that they spoke English. Other than a bit of French, from living in New Orleans, she had no additional languages in her repertoire.

Apparently he made high quality leather, armor and unique swords in which he was hoping to find a market for. Although this wouldn’t be for a military type market, it would be for a collectors market. Renaissance fairs, although not in a mass abundance in the states, were still there. Not to mention many other countries around the world.

The object of her proposal was to appeal to the mass market around the globe, and or create him and his business as the must have for what he has to offer, or even custom work. There was a giant market for handmade authentic reproductions of medieval type swords and other weapons. It was a trade that wasn’t appreciated, or maintained by all that many that didn’t use modern equipment. From what she understood, his was as authentic as it could be, forge and all.

Technology was the future, and she would use the vast amounts at her disposal to create the campaign and find the audience for his craft that was required. Though to her understanding, he didn’t even own a cell phone. How freeing that must be. They did confirm her cottage had internet and was set up with a printer she could use. But as far as his estate. Other than modern technology such as electricity and refrigerators. There wasn’t WIFI or internet at his castle. Flora had to reread that last part, he actually lived in a castle.

Enroute to the airport with her bags packed, this journey would take her 18 hours with the combination of flights and travel that was required. She would have two days rest and preparation before her meeting. If she landed this account, it would make her firm the most well rounded advertising firm in the world. If she failed, which wasn’t a thought really, at least she would have finally had the opportunity to see some of the world.

 

[Zephreck]

In the country of Varisia there was a small town called Fallcrest. It was a small town that once bustled with tourists. It was nestled in a valley that existed in between two mountain ranges. Deep forests surrounded the town and the scent of pine and oak could often be smelled as the winds washed over your face. Most of the town seemed to frozen in time. It was rare to see a car or truck. Children were playing outside and did not have their noses stuck in cell phones. Steets were lit at night by old natural gas lamps that glowed amber red instead of bright neon colors. There were no traffic lights and instead there were stop signs on every corner. The sidewalks and streets were not made of crumbling concrete. Instead each was made of carefully crafted stone that was from the local mine. Most people walked with smiles on their faces and greeted each other as they passed by. The smell of freshly baked bread and roasted meat simmering in stews and casseroles could often make your mouth water. There were no retail restaurants or grocery stores. And the town only had one gas station. A roaring river flowed through the town and it caused a natural barricade to the Lord's castle that was only accessible via a sturdy but narrow bridge. Two guards stood to either side of the bridge and unlike the jovial townsfolk they were at attention and focused on their jobs. Few were allowed to the castle. Those that were allowed in rarely left.

Across the river in an old castle lived the Lord of the town. William Vandread had lived his entire life there. He never left. He had never been to any other city. He was no king. There were no grand festivals. It was rare for anyone to have access to his keep. His servants could not tell you how old he was. They had always seen him appear to be the same age. He appeared to be in his early 30s. He was just over 6 foot tall and had a slim build with wide shoulders. He always had two sabers at his hips. His pants were made of thick fabric that had thin plates of metal woven into it, and he wore long sleeved shirts that were covered by a leather chestplate and the outfit was finished by his sturdy leather boots. Long dark hair flowed down his head and had grown till it reached his shoulders. His eyes were deep purple and resembled glowing jewels and he looked around constantly. He never appeared relaxed. Instead he wore an intense gaze that seemed to find a way through everyone's defenses. You just knew not to lie to him.

Vandread cursed as him hammer hit his target slightly off center. Again and again the hammer pounded down on the metal and slowly he could see the sword take a more proper form. Besides him an assistant pumped the bellows which forced air into the forge. William slid the blade into the forge to reheat the metal and as the metal gained heat he let his mind drift. He could not help but think about things that would occur. Soon he would have to deal with someone who was not from his lands. An outsider would be allowed to visit. He hated that he needed anyone's help with anything. But his people needed to be taken care of. He had inherited a vast amount of wealth and he used it to manage the people who made up his community and allowed it to prosper. Prosper. Vandread spit and thought about the current state of his financial affairs. His wealth was not without limits. He needed to sell his products to people with means that could afford them. He knew his product would be wanted by others. He needed to find the right market. He glanced down at the sword again and moved it back to the anvil. This time his hammer fell perfectly and though he did not appear relaxed it brought him joy. He loved to make things. His assistant kept pace with him and he felt proud of her skills. He would find a way to reward her for being loyal.

 

[Perplexia]

The corporate lear jet was fueled and on the tarmac with engines started as her limo pulled up. Her heels echoed a clicking sound as she walked from the car. “Evening Ms. de LaCroix” Henry the flight attendant said with a smile offering her his hand. Taking it she stepped up the metal stairs into the plane. “Thank you, and good evening Henry.” she replied. Walking to her seat she kicked off her heels and put her slippers on.
Within ten minutes the pilot announced they had the all clear and were taking off.

The hardest part was the take off. She didn’t hate flying, and wasn’t afraid of it. But the most uncomfortable part was getting up in the air. As always it passed. Henry came to her with a glass of her favorite champagne and asked what she would like for dinner. Her answer was almost always the same, the chicken parmigiana , garden salad with Italian dressing, and some of their sweet rolls. Henry nodded and was off again.

Pulling out her laptop she connected it to the airplanes WIFI, and began to re-educate herself with the information that she already had. Varisia was a small country with the village of Fallcrest, nestled between the mountains of Romania and Moldova. It’s population was roughly 1500 residents. There was very little information about it, other than it didn’t have an airport, there was one way in. There was no hotel, and from what was reported it was a world of its own.

It was curious to her that a country could actually exist that was that small. Perhaps because of its location it wasn’t lucrative for either Romania or Moldova to go to war over it. Perhaps she would ask Lord Vandread more about it. The limited access to the mail system may add additional shipping time. Her main concern was how would they get the orders without sufficient internet. With the country nestles so neatly and tightly between the mountains, it made sense that what they could get would be limited. Even if they got a satellite to sit directly above the area, the price of that alone could be anywhere from 50 million upwards. For a small unique business such as his that would probably not be an option.

As the country itself was self sufficient and so small it maintained the old world attitude. They used horses, mules and carts most often as transportation. Instead of 6 days a week of mail, they received mail once a week. They did have landlines, which meant it was possible to go old school and use dial up internet service, as well as fax machines.
The next thing would be to get the name out there. The best way to do it would be through trade shows, and creating a website.

She did have to give the man credit. He was doing what it took, to take care of his people. Even if that meant reaching out to a world he didn’t want any part of.

 

[Zephreck]

Several long physical hours later the sword was finally shaped and was put into an oven that would let it slowly cool properly so that the metal would not become brittle. Vandread had spent so much time folding the metal onto itself hundreds of time so that the material would gain flexibility and strength. He was unwilling to tell anyone the exact composition of the metal alloy. It was part of what made his items so expensive. That and the amount of skill and all the work that it took to properly form each piece. The assistant that was helping him was named Ellen. He had given numerous teenagers that wanted to learn beside him an opportunity to prove their mettle. She was the only one thus far that worked with him side by side. There were others that worked on various projects. There were always handles that needed to be made and the shop was meticulously cleaned every day. Two other assistants began cleaning the shop as he left for the evening. Ellen followed a few paces behind him. They left the heat of the shop and entered into a large restroom area. Yet another servant was there and gathered their clothes as each stripped completely bare and walked over to a side by side shower.

Vandread gathered a large amount of soap into his hands and slowly bathed Ellen. He let his hands travel over all of her body and felt for anything out of place. After her body was completely clean he moved behind her and began the task of washing her long locks of hair. The servant that gathered the clothes earlier waited just outside of the shower ready for any instructions. At no time was any of Vandread's movements sexual. It was almost like a person taking care of a pet. Nothing was said. No comments were made. No idle chit chat occurred. He washed and bathed her and then once she was completely clean he snapped his fingers and the attendant that was waiting took her to get clean clothes. It was then that Vandread began cleaning his own body.

As he washed himself he tried to imagine what all he would have to do to please the person that was going to visit. How would he teach her the intrinsic values that his people already knew and held. How would he teach her the traditions. He was worried she would want to set up some sort of automated factory. As if his masterpieces could be made on an assembly line.

 

[Perplexia]

Flora's plane finally arrived in Romania, and her driver met her on the tarmac. After she had worked on her presentation, she slept the rest of the way there. It threw off her time clock, which actually was going to work to her benefit for jet lag. The view on the drive was spectacular. She'd been all over the U.S for meetings, but nothing compared to this. The landscape and just the entire aura of Romania was like she stepped into another world. A few hours later as they crossed the border into Varisa, it was if she was crossing into another world again.

Her cottage sat outside the village on a couple acres of land. Goats and other farm animals roamed the pasture and surrounding area. The driver opened her door and took out her luggage and placed it next to the front door for her. "I'll be back tomorrow to take you into the village for your meeting at 9am. Your staples had been delivered and put away earlier today. If you ride there's a couple horses in the stable with the tact you'll need. Stefan is the worker for the farm, he'll take care of the livestock, and assist you if you want help. He pointed to the far line of trees. He has a cabin there. There's a land line with his phone number and other numbers you may need. The Wi-Fi is spotty, but the password and network id are listed for you.

"Great Thank you" she told her driver. Making her way inside she took her luggage to her room. It was a nicely kept retro cottage. She was rarely ever at her own condo that she had in the city. She wasn't quite sure what to do with herself. This would be an exercise in how to just be. Taking a seat at the kitchen table she used the adapter for the plug, and set up her laptop. She actually didn't really need the Wi-Fi. She had done all the research on the plane and previous to arriving. Opening up the program, she began to look over the slide show she created and went through the presentation to ensure that it was perfect.

Bringing in the wood she lit a fire in the fireplace and made herself a cup of hot cocoa. Looking up on the mantle she saw some old books. Getting up she went to inspect them further. Closing her eyes she moved her hand an inch in front of the seams, deciding to pick one at random in the typical einey meeny miny mo fashion. Instead a book came straight into her hand. Her eyes flew open. "what the hell?" she exclaimed. Taking the book over to the the chair she sat down and examined it. It wasn't titled, in the typica fashion. She wasn't sure why, but she followed her instinct and moved her hand over the front in a semi circle. Before her eyes letters glowed and began to appear. Serkovian Grimoire. Flora had done enough reading when she had spare time to understand that no one but those with the bloodline should be able to see the letters.

It had never crossed her mind that witchcraft was more then stories that made some awesome books and movies. But knowing nothing of her real parentage, it hadn't even dawned upon her that she could be have belonged to a family. Opening the book the pages at first appeared blank. Moving her hand over it, the words and images began to be visible. For the rest of the night, she continued to read, and learn. Occasionally she would take a break, pour herself a glass of wine, and try a spell. Fire from her finger tips, moving an object, whatever the spell she read was, she was suddenly able to do it. Flora for the first time figured out why things came so easily to her all her life.

Flora woke the next morning with her phone beeping. Looking at her phone she grumbled and headed for the shower. When the car arrived she grabbed her laptop and the thumb drive and headed to the Castle. The village was serene, old-timey vibe, where people were happy and content in their lives. It was right out of a painting. The cobble stone road reminded her of a thomas kincade painting. For the first time, she wanted to blow off the meeting and go from store to store, stall to stall and just take it all in. As they arrived at the end of the bridge the guard came to the window, he looked at his clipboard and waved them forward. As they began to approach it. 'Danger' came into her head with a loud alarm. as her door was opened, another warning came, /STOP Danger'. It took great effort to make it up the stairs of the castle.

She was offered coffee, which she was thankful for , since she hadn't had time to grab any. The warning was still there, but she had to move through it. She was taken to a large room, where she was told Lord Vandread would be with her momentarily.

 

[Zephreck]

"Lord Vandread your quest has arrived". A servant notified him and he nodded towards her and began to dress himself. He allowed himself to put on something other than his normal work clothes. First he chose a long sleeved black silk shirt. He wore no jewelry of any kind. He slid on black silk socks and then a pair of pressed black slacks. Finally he slid on a pair of dressed boots. They were made of soft leather and were perfectly formed to fit his feet. As he stood up he looked down and figured it would have to do. He ran his fingers through his long dark locks and smoothed it back. He started to leave then made himself stop. He would need to present to his guest some of his work. He opened his closet and grabbed a sturdy leather belt. It was coarse and not as smooth as his clothes. As he slid the belt through the loops in his pants he paused and slid one sheath and then a second one on his opposite hips. He clasped the belt and then went to a case that stood near his bed. Inside were to long sabers. They were not as long as old longswords were nor were they as wide as scimitars were made. These were made to resemble a style of swords that Vandread had always imagined elves from fantasy novels would wear.

They were made of an alloy called mithril. Though lighter than steel they were 50 times stronger. The material would flex and bend instead of breaking. Their handles were carved out of mahogany and were inlaid with beautiful gems. Runes had been inscribed in the wood of the hilts of each blade. Vandread did not know the power of them but he could feel a slight tingling sensation in his fingertips as his hands griped each sword. He stretched his arms and then quickly sheathed each sword in a quick precise motion. He was ready. As he walked down the hallway to the room where his guest awaited he wondered what he would say. He was not accustomed to addressing people. Most of his servants had been trained by either himself or by those who had held the positions before. He was worried that she would consider him to be some foolish oath. It had been ages since he had to be presentable for anyone.

As he walked the boots on his feet felt too soft. He wondered if he should have worn his usual clothing. Back and forth in his mind he critiqued his choices. He shook his head with a bit of anger and commanded himself to shake off the voices that were arguing in his mind. He was Lord Vandread. He would not be an oaf. He was the Lord of this castle. This was important and needed to be done. His people would be cared for. He made himself walk with confidence. Alfred was waiting for him in the hallway. "Sire before you meet with your guest perhaps you should have your morning drink". Vandread stopped and nodded to Alfred. He was grateful that Alfred had prepared his drink. A large stein was on the table beside Alfred. Vandread picked up the stein and as his fingers gripped the oversized glass he felt the warmth of the liquid inside radiate through the material. The liquid inside was thick and red. The sweet aroma wafted towards him and for a moment Vandread's whole body shivered. He made himself wait a moment and then brought the stein to his lips and drank a long deep draft of the sweet red sustenance. As soon as the blood hit his mouth it made him feel better. He breathed in deeply and drank another long swallow. It tasted exquisite. After he drank the entire stein of blood he felt much better. He nodded towards Alfred as he was offered first a napkin to wipe his lips and then a handkerchief that was made of silk and had his family's name engraved on it. "In case you need to offer the lady one your majesty."

"Alfred thank you for always taking care of me. As always I am grateful for your attention to detail. Please if you would be so kind.. lead me to your guest." Alfred bowed and spun on his heels and began to walk forward. It did not take them long to approach the a large circular room. As they approached Alfred stepped to one side and announced the Lord's arrival. "The honorable Lord Vandread is here to see our lady Flora de LaCroix from America."

 

[Perplexia]

'Vampire!!!!' shouted in her brain as he stepped into the room. It took her by surprise not sure what to make of it. Flora did a slight curtsy and lowered her eyes. "Mi Lord, its a pleasure to make your acquaintance. Adjusting her posture back to a stance she waited for him to move to the table. It was only then she followed and took a seat near him. "If you don't mind I'd like to jump right into it. Our staff has spoken at length with your assistant, and I hope that with the presentation I've created for you, I'll be able to address all of your concerns, and present you with some viable options that will assist you in accomplishing your goals." It was then that her eyes looked up to meet his. His gaze captured her in a way she'd never experienced before.

Flora had little to no experience when it came to men. She'd been asked out, but studying was more important. The response she was having to just the mere sight of this man wasn't anything she'd ever felt. It left her confused for a moment. Did he know what she'd just hours before found out about herself? Could he really be a vampire? could they really exist? If they did exist, what was the relationship between the two races?, and was the voice in her head correct? Was she in danger from him?

Turning the laptop to face him, she pressed play on the presentation. So he could see what she came up with. Flora addressed everything from forming the business to distribution and applying it to the ready made markets without jeopardizing the handmade quality or changing his production to machines. She even included a cost analysis and a projected profit margin over the next five years.
As she let him review the presentation, Flora looked over his face trying to discern anything that would give her a clue to what he was thinking. Of course she also found a subconcious pleasure from his angled face and purple eyes. This was unlike her. Why did this particular man affect her so?, and could Vampires actually exist?

Nothing would surprise her now. Finding that grimoire last night had answered so many questions she'd never thought to ask, as well as allowing her to tap into powers, she never thought possible.

 

[Zephreck]

Vandread stared at the laptop and tried to follow along with the presentation. He could not concentrate though. The screen moved almost too quickly for him. It was too bright.. too loud. And though he was supposed to be staring at the screen he could not stop looking at the beautiful woman in front of him. Her long red hair caught his attention then her eyes. But it was not just her smooth skin and her beautiful curves that distracted him. He had seen beautiful women before. It was the aura she had that pulsed and seemed to overwhelm him the second he stepped into the room. He could feel her magic flowing out from her. It surprised him and he was also drawn to her in a way that he had never felt before. Even though he just fed before meeting her; he felt insecurity creeping into his mind for a moment. Then he shut everything down. Mental barricades sprang up locking everything out. He closed his eyes for a moment. He made himself not think about her hair, her moist smooth lips, the soft edges of her nipples that he could see pressed against the fabric that bound them, he made his mind stop wanting to kiss her neck, to run his fingers down her body. He made himself stop.

His father's words sprung into his mind. He was a little boy again. Standing in the rain wearing nothing. He could feel the wind rushing by. He could count each drop of moisture as it hit his body. "Focus and guard yourself. You will never beat me. You are nothing." His father's voice taunted him and then suddenly his father's blade was slashing towards him. Vandread countered with his meager defenses. His swords met and deflected his father's blades just enough so that he could spin away. "You cannot run away from me little bird... you are not greater than me.. you never will be... DEFEND yourself!"

Hearing those words in his mind made his mental wards form immediately. A coolness rushed over his body enveloping him and shielding him from her magical energy. His mind full of lust one moment ago was now focused and sharp. He made himself draw in a breath to steady himself and then he looked directly into her eyes and commanded her. "Stop the device. Use your words." As he said this he rose again and suddenly his swords were in his hands. The moment the hilts were drawn and in his hands he felt better. He felt more secure. Energy poured into his body from them. Gems that had been enchanted decades before and all the runes along the carved wood of the hilts radiated magical wards that enveloped him completely. He felt them grow from the ground all the way up his body and relished the feeling of his wards snapping shut over his head.

"Technology gives me a headache. I know you have not met me but I have to ask you. Do you even know what it is you are here to sell? These are no mere trinkets. They are priceless. They are works of art. People will want them. Your goal is not to find the person that wants them. Your goal is to find the people that are destined to have them" said Vandread.

He paused a moment to slowly stretch his neck from one side to the next. Then he shook his arms for a moment to loosen his muscles. Gathering himself he started an intricate kata which was a complex set of footwork and sword strokes. He wielded a sword in each hand and each stroke was precise and fluid. His arms made the blades in his hands flash out with graceful arcs. Again and again they cut precisely into the air. Though there was no opponent in front of him he demonstrates the skill required to perform his dance with his blades. As Vandread moves he continues to speak to Rachel.

"The blades are made of specific alloys. They must be pure and combined into the perfect mixture. The metal must be heated to the correct temperature and then it must be folded over and over again to give the metal flexibility. If it does not have this it can shatter. Every part of each sword must be perfectly balanced. The handles must be comfortable and molded to my hands. The pommels must be inscribed with the proper runes. The guard must be sturdy and provide proper protection. The blade must not only be light but it must be strong and razor sharp. These are not just my blades. They are my life"

Having said that the intricate kata is complete and Vandread's movement slows. He takes each blade and lays them on the table in front of you and the energies from them continue to radiate for a few moments even after he is no longer touching them. A few moments later the magical energies that were radiating from the blades fades and Vandread sits down in front of you again. "Please my lady. Do not use your computer. Tell me why you are the one to sell these artifacts for me."

 

[Perplexia]

"Stop the device. Use your words."

Suddenly his swords were in his hands and she pushed her chair back from the table. Her eyes watching him intently, as her aura grew brighter ready to defend herself if need be. Pulling the laptop to her she stopped the video.

"I am not a fan of technology. It gives me a headache. I know you have not met me but I have to ask you. Do you even know what it is you are here to sell? These are no mere trinkets. They are priceless. They are works of art. People will want them. Your goal is not to find the person that wants them. Your goal is to find the people that are destined to have them.""I am not a fan of technology. It gives me a headache. I know you have not met me but I have to ask you. Do you even know what it is you are here to sell? These are no mere trinkets. They are priceless. They are works of art. People will want them. Your goal is not to find the person that wants them. Your goal is to find the people that are destined to have them."

Her eyes watched as he swung the swords with such grace and precision. She continued to listen as he described the swords to her. His passion for making these works of art was evident. He took great pride in his work, as he should. As she had researched on her own she could see the hard work that went into these. His heart and soul were in every piece. As he continued to talk her mind switched from thinking about his form, the way his muscles pulsated under his pants and shirt, to the words he was saying. Her eyes followed him as he laid the swords in front of her so she may examine them.

"I do apologize Lord Vandread, I can understand your distaste for technology. I will be more then happy to tell you everything you need to know, as to why you should entrust these magnificent pieces of art with myself and my firm, to reach the right buyers who will treasure them as much as you do." She thought for a moment. then added.. "Perhaps you have some grounds where we can walk and talk. It's such a beautiful day, it would be a waste to spend time inside."

He nodded and agreement and motioned for her to follow. Standing up she smoothed her navy pencil shirt and placed her laptop in her bag placing it over her silk white v neck blouse, which gave only a slight view of her cleavage. Flora's short legs had to speed up a little to keep up with him. He took her to his luxurious gardens and the aroma and view was breath taking. Not to mention her host was causing all kind of fluttering to occur in places she'd never experienced before.

"What you make here, with your own hands, are simply extraordinary. There is a vast market of collectors out there that will pay extreme mounts of funds to obtain one of your works of art. Although you distaste technology, that is the world thats out there, and will be our fastest and most efficient way to make what you do be seen. The second way will be trade shows. For a collector to be able to touch, feel, and see them in person is the best tool. Because word of mouth is, and always has been the best advertisement. I will work side by side with you if you desire it, and stay as long as you need me to assure that we create a flawless system that will run like clockwork. None of the things you worried about will be necessary. I would never suggest mass production by switching to machines etc. That market is there simply for those that cannot afford what you do. There is a company in the United States called Tiffany. Their products are sought after and people pay thousands of dollars to own one. But there are also replicas out there. You will be the Tiffany's of hand forged items. That i can guarantee."

 

[Zephreck]

As they walk Vandread finds himself gazing at her form. It is impossible for him to miss the way her breasts bounce with each step. He can smell the scent of her perfume and it is an incredibly beautiful aroma. Though his eyes and nose are occupied he remembers to use his ears as well. The last thing he wants is to appear to be an idiot. He thinks about all that she says and thinks a moment before responding to her. "I have heard of Tiffany's but have never shopped for their wares. I want to hire you because of your knowledge and it would be foolish of me to not accept your advice. I would like to work with you and I think we could make a formidable team. I will provide you with some of my work to take with you when you hold these trade shows." Vandread slows his pace to match the shorter strides of Flora's.

"Can we have lunch? I know you may need some time to freshen up after our stroll but I would very much enjoy spending time with you today."

As Vandread waited for her reply he could not help but feel his pace racing. The scent of Rachel and her beautiful form had his mind racing. He turned to gaze fully at her and stopped walking. His eyes took in her flushed cheeks, the length of her neck, the beautiful valley between her perky breasts. What he would give to be able to kiss her neck. He needed to focus but his loins and body burned with desire.

 

[Perplexia]

"I will provide you with some of my work to take with you when you hold these trade shows."

"Oh, it would actually be you and your team that would attending the tradeshows my Lord." she responded. "We would be helping you to know which are the best to register for. What is the name that you will be calling your business? Do you have a logo designed for it already? Those will be our first steps. Next will be to create a website, which i can have my team set up for you. Since you don't care for technology, we'll ask that you get an additional land line for a fax machine. That is how you will receive your orders. You will also need a staff that will contact the Customers that want to purchase. I know that two swords are probably never the same. This is going to make your product even more lucrative. I would start with the inventory you do have. Perhaps we can start with that tomorrow. I'll get pictures, we'll label and tag everything. So when someone places an order online, they have a reference number so you know which item it refers to. Each item will need a description as well."

She smiled at his request for lunch, of course I'd be delighted to have lunch with you. I would only need a few minutes to freshen up. We can then discuss this further if you'd like.

 

[Zephreck]

"Flora please.. a moment". Vandread offers you his arm and when you place it on his arm he walks slowly towards a small table that has a three pitchers on it and a small bucket of ice and two glasses. He nods to Alfred and says, "thank you Alfred I need a moment to talk to Ms. Flora alone". Alfred pulls out a chair for you to sit down at the table and as soon as you sit he ambles off back towards the castle.

"My dear lady... we have fresh water, tea, and lemonade her for refreshments. Let me know which you prefer and I will pour you a glass."

He sits across from her and tries not to stare at her lovely form. "I have contacts that process any of the trades that our community needs. I have to admit to you.. I have never left this island. Never once. I contacted you because I need someone that will assist me with this..." He pauses a moment then looks you directly in the eyes. "No that is not fully the truth. What I am saying is I need a partner. I need someone I can trust. I think that the perfect person to develop the sales that our community needs is you."

He allows you to look into his eyes and he drops his mental blocks. He forces himself to lower the arcane shields he had risen before. And hopes that Flora can read him fully. He knows that if she does that she will sense his desire and complete lust that he has for her. But he hopes that she will also see that he is being completely honest with her.

 

[Perplexia]

"Lemonaide please" she responded to his inquiry about the refreshment she'd like.

She shifted uneasily and stayed silent for a moment. "Let me be clear that I understand what you're asking Lord Vandread. Are you asking for me to lead the advertising campaign, or are you asking me to quit my firm, move to here and assist you with becoming a power force in your specific market?"

As Flora hadn't tried to see into his mind, she was unaware of the block he had placed. In truth having just learned of her being a witch, she wasn't sure of her capabilites were. Nor would she have attempted to read his mind, as she did not know what powers he could be capable of. The looks at her form, weren't unusual in her job. Though it never went anywhere. If he offered her to move here. Perhaps in getting to know each other something may develop. That was if he wasn't going to make her his blood toy. The only reference she had on vampires was what she had seen in the movies. They simply were not suppose to exist. Now that she know they did, it was quite possible much of the media that was out there regrading them was false. It could have even potentially been laid in place by the vampire community themselves.

Since they were in discussion regarding a business deal, it didn't seem like the right time for her to question him about what he was. She simply sipped her lemonade, and waited for his response.

 

[Zephreck]

"You ask me a good question Flora. I want you to lead my advertising campaign most assuredly. I also would love to have you be more.... involved. I would welcome you to have a residence here but I also know you are far away from home. And I do not know you very well yet. And you have yet to know much about me. I rely on my intuition to a great deal. My gut feelings if you will.... I believe you are a capable person. I do not have anyone with your skills here. You can make money anywhere. I know you are talented and I am sure that with your assistance we can make a great fortune together. But I would never want you to feel pressured into living here. That would always be your choice to make. Not mine."

Vandread poured her a glass of lemonade and tried to sense if she was relieved at all by her body language. He could sense her tenseness and hoped he was not indeed becoming a complete oaf.

 

[Perplexia]

Flora had done her research, she knew that by being a partner with him, if he followed her plans, that he could possibly be a multi millionaire if not billionaire with in six months. This land was also the most gorgeous land she'd ever seen. "Why don't we do this.." she proposed. "we will take a look at your inventory, i need an average time that it takes to make your wares. From the most time to the least. As we spend time together and get to know each other better. It will help me make a decision into which direction i would like to go." she smiled and hoped that was a sufficient answer.

"I would also recommend for the purposes of selling what you already have, we put them into what is often called 'series'. For example, and please don't take offence to the name i give. But the swords you were using earlier. Those i would dub the King Arthur Series, a step down, i would call the Lancelot series, and then below that The knights of the round table series. If you decide that you wish to make custom swords, and include a crest emblem on the hilt with a 'family jewel' to match the heritage or region. Those would be what we would call exclusive. Even if you only made one a month, you would be able to enjoy some of the benefits of the empire you'll be creating.

As her eyes studied his face, she suddenly felt weak and dizzy. "I do apologize Lord Vandred. I believe the jet lag has caught up with me."

 

[Zephreck]

Vandread watched her as she talked. He nodded his head several times as he listened. "I think it is a great idea to create tiers of the inventory. The time it takes to make something will often times depend upon the item being made and how many inscribed runes and enchanted gems are imbedded into them. I have created daggers, short swords, sabers, elven sabers like the ones I showed you, long swords, two handed bastard swords, and battle axes. I have also made armor over the years but I am not sure many would want them made. Whether we call them tiers or series doesn't matter to me. I like your idea. I think the items that will take the longest will be more expensive and like the idea of calling them exclusives. We should have representatives that could go and take samples of the material used and that could make measurements of the individual's hands, their preferences etc. I would need your help training the representatives but I think they would add a personal touch."

He glanced up and caught her eyes and as he was studying her face her body suddenly seemed a bit weaker. She missed a step and Vandread slid his arm around her. "Flora are you ok? Take a moment..."

"I do apologize Lord Vandred. I believe the jet lag has caught up with me." Flora responded

"No need to apologize at all. Let's get you to your suite so you can rest." He walked with her the entire way and as they approached her suite Alfred appeared. "Please call for Lady Eliza... I think it would be good if she had a lady attendant. Thank you Alfred." Alfred hurried away and a few moments later an elderly lady appeared. Her posture was rigid and a bit stiff but her eyes were kind and she instantly began to berate Vandread.

"I can't believe you have her in such a state m' Lord... What have you done to her? I have her now." She frowned at both Vandread and Alfred and offered her arm for Flora to lean on. "My lady I am so sorry they have treated you this way. Men can be idiots sometimes. We will get you somewhere more comfortable..." As she continued to try to soothe Flora both men backed away and eventually the two women were gone.

"Alfred thank you for your assistance. Can you let the staff know she will need food and privacy? Let me know if she requires my company. I will be in my room." Alfred bowed his head and stood at attention at the door and did not look to the left or the right as his Lord left the area.

 

[Perplexia]

"No need to apologize at all. Let's get you to your suite so you can rest."
Flora nodded and allowed him to help her to her suite. The mere contact with this man was riveting. It was like electronic pulses being shot through her body in a way she'd never experienced before.

"My lady I am so sorry they have treated you this way. Men can be idiots sometimes. We will get you somewhere more comfortable..."
"Please don't chastise them so", Flora replied. "I'm certain this is not of their doing in the least. Simply jetlag catching up with me."

Flora laid down on the oversized canopy bed and closed her eyes. There was much to think about. In all of her work she'd put forth a great amount of effort. But she knew what he wanted. She also knew that if it had been any other ad rep they would have lost this account. The world depended on technology. They wouldn't have gone the extra mile to see what he was doing. Even as she rested ideas for growing his business were exponential. This phrase 'how many inscribed runes and enchanted gems are imbedded into them' was playing over in her mind. Did he have the power to do that himself? or did he have a witch do it for him. A pang of jealousy ripped through her, followed by the thought 'what the fuck'.

Interrupting her thought process a cart was brought in which Alfred inspected before he cleared them for entry and brought to a table. "Alfred if you would please, ask Lord Vandread if he'd like to join me for lunch. This is way too much and I'd hate to see it go to waste. He merely nodded waiting for the staff that brought the cart to leave before bowing and going off.
'Did vampires even eat food?' she wondered. 'Does he have the same inclination that she is a witch?' came next while she slowly made her way to one of the chairs and sat down.

Her eyes went over the smorgasbord that was brought for her. If she was fed like this daily she would be as round as a pumpkin carriage.

 

[Zephreck]

Vandread paced back and forth in his castle foyer. He was very worried about Flora. He had never been drawn to a woman like her. He thought about that as he paced back and forth. She was very intelligent. Her mind seemed to be as sharp as any of the swords he had ever made.

She was lovely to look at but he had been with lovely women before. No one had ever created such desire in him. It had to be her personality. She was unlike anyone he had ever met before. He paced faster.

As he paced back and forth Alfred appeared "Sire Lady Flora has requested that you meet her in her suite and share the feast we prepared for her."

"Of course Alfred. I am on my way right now...:"

Vandread suddenly stooped... "Wait... how is she feeling? Do you think she is ok? Should we send for a healer?"

Alfred turned towards him and allowed himself to smile. It was a brief smile but Vandread saw it and appreciated it. "Sire relax. I am sure she is ok. She is quite capable of taking care of herself I believe. Far be it for me to ever be able to explain the mystery of a woman's mind... but Sire she asked for you. By all means go... before she changes her mind."

Alfred shook his head and once Vandread was on his way he smiled again. He was glad that Flora was here.

Vandread was walking so quickly that he was close to jogging. He made himself slow down. He must respect her and should not be seen running towards her. Alfred was right. She was no damsel in distress.

 

[Perplexia]

Flora lifted a strawberry to her lips and bit down lightly. she let the taste of the delicate fruit serenade her taste buds. Seeing Lord Vandread walk toward the door she place it on her plate and licked the juice off her fingers. Holding up her hand she advised "I'm fine truly, I'm sure its the jetlag, and need for food. Of which you provided plenty, Thank you , and please thank your staff. So you asked me for lunch, so please sit and join me."
She waited for him to sit down before she started filling her plate with bits and pieces from the spread that was laid before her.

Casually she asked "you mentioned enchanted gems and inscribed ruins, did you have witch do them for you". Placing a small bite of food in her mouth Flora watched his face for a reaction. "i'm not quite certain that magic should be sold to the mundane" she mentioned. "I don't know exactly what it would provide for them, or to them, I'm sure you'd know better than I as to the repercussions of such a thing."

 

[Zephreck]

Vandread sits down and carefully selects a few things to put on his plate. He spread some butter on a slice of thick bread and then spreads marmalade across it before taking a bite.

"You ask an interesting question. I agree to tell you about the enchantment process but I need you to sign a non disclosure agreement and a non compete agreement. They are standardized and I will allow you time to read over them before signing anything. Once they are signed I will allow you to see some of the enchanting being performed."

He takes a few bites and watches her reaction.

"The short answer is that yes there are some here who are able to create the enchantments."

He carefully selects a few grapes and eats them as well and notices Flora seems to be studying him eat.

"Yes I can eat food. No sunlight does not bother me. And I am not sure about the ethics involved in deciding who should or should not be allowed to have magical items. Most of my creations that we will sell will not be enchanted. But if we are going to advertise something as being legendary... it needs to be unique. Do you agree?"

 

[Perplexia]

Flora nodded to the NDA/non compete for the enchantment process. It also told her two things about him One he knew she was a witch and had the ability to do magic. Second, he wasn't ignorant to business practices.

She blushed a little when he noticed her studying him. She picked back up the strawberry she had started with and put it back into her mouth. She couldn't help the little moan that escaped from the exquisite flavor of it.

He had explained the myths of vampires vs the actuality without actually saying 'I'm a Vampire'. "I do agree that the legendary ones need to be unique, special, eye drawing, works of art. But I don't believe that it could be advertised as enchanted. Not that it wouldn't be, but the amount of lawsuits that would open up saying that it didn't work. Whether it did or not, it would be hard in a court of law to prove that magic did work. Especially with the idea of Vampires and Witches being perceived as fantasy beings of what story tales are made of."

"With that in mind, I think if you selected to do some 'custom' pieces and had them sign the affliated paperwork with a disclosure. You wouldn't have a problem. But those i would do few and far between."

 

[Zephreck]

It was almost impossible for Vandread to not stare at Flora as she continued to eat the strawberry. He tried his best to hide his facial response to her moan but it caused him to ache deep within. He wanted to make her moan more. He forced himself to listen to her as she said...

"I do agree that the legendary ones need to be unique, special, eye drawing, works of art. But I don't believe that it could be advertised as enchanted. Not that it wouldn't be, but the amount of lawsuits that would open up saying that it didn't work. Whether it did or not, it would be hard in a court of law to prove that magic did work. Especially with the idea of Vampires and Witches being perceived as fantasy beings of what story tales are made of."

"With that in mind, I think if you selected to do some 'custom' pieces and had them sign the affliated paperwork with a disclosure. You wouldn't have a problem. But those i would do few and far between."

Vandread responded to her, "We can certainly start with swords that have no enchantments whatsoever. And I agree we can never advertise that anything is enchanted... It would draw attention from the worst people. I want to be able to charge a significant amount but I think the craftsmanship alone should do that without needing to add any inscriptions or inscribed gems within the blades."

He shook his head a moment and then continued. "I think we should have someone that we trust interview anyone that wants to buy anything enchanted. I am not even sure what the procedure will need to be but we cannot just let anyone with a great deal of money buy them."

 

[Perplexia]

"I think we should have someone that we trust interview anyone that wants to buy anything enchanted. I am not even sure what the procedure will need to be but we cannot just let anyone with a great deal of money buy them."

I absolutely agree. Someone that can sense the magic, I'm not sure if telepathy exists or not. But we definitely need to have someone who can read people without error. The last thing we want is some rich moron that has malice on his mind. Someone that understands the importance of the magic and how it works. Those are custom pieces, which can't be necessarily world wide advertised. But i think that if we can search out with in the communities of those that can afford, and benefit. They would in turn spread your skills by word of mouth. Working on a referral basis only I think would be the not only the safest, but the most financially lucrative for those pieces. For the mondains. I think non-enchanted, based just off the workmanship you've already shown, will still be a steady flow of income that will be the background."

Flora smiled up at him. There was something about the passion he had for his work that she found sexy as hell. That and the fact his looks just oozed his sexuality. She'd been kissed, and she'd been groped, but she had never felt that thing that made her want him with such a passion her body ached. Something about him made her flutter.

"I've decided that I'm going to take a sabbatical from my position in the states. That way i can dedicate myself to seeing your business get off the ground. I will be able to find out if this is a good fit for me. We'll see how well we work together. I think we should consider it a probational period. That way you can also decide at the end of it, if you want me to be a partner in it with you. I will charge you the same salary as i currently make during that time. If we decided to go forward with the partnership. I think we should do a 60/40 split of the business. That gives you majority control, as its your idea, and your talent. How does that sound to you?" She took another bite while she let what she said process. "Also, you referred to this as my suite. If you meant it. At the end of two weeks, I'd be happy to move in here during my probationary period."

 

[Zephreck]

"I've decided that I'm going to take a sabbatical from my position in the states. That way i can dedicate myself to seeing your business get off the ground. I will be able to find out if this is a good fit for me. We'll see how well we work together. I think we should consider it a probational period. That way you can also decide at the end of it, if you want me to be a partner in it with you. I will charge you the same salary as i currently make during that time. If we decided to go forward with the partnership. I think we should do a 60/40 split of the business. That gives you majority control, as its your idea, and your talent. How does that sound to you?" She took another bite while she let what she said process. "Also, you referred to this as my suite. If you meant it. At the end of two weeks, I'd be happy to move in here during my probationary period."

Vandread thought about all she had said. He agreed with much of what she said. "If you think you need to take a sabbatical then I will certainly do my best to make you feel as comfortable as possible. During your time here I can show you some of the more mundane blades as well as allow you to see how they are constructed. I would like for you to have time to get to know the people of this village. To see why I am wanting this so badly. As far as the salary and your split of the partnership I am sure we can agree with that. Please draw up the financial documents and I will make sure you are compensated for your trip here and we will begin to pay your salary."

Vandread looked around at the suite she was in. "If this is comfortable for you then please consider it your residence here. You are more than welcome to visit me at the castle as well. Please let me know if there is anything you need at all. I am very grateful for your help." He continued to let his eyes look over her. She was incredibly beautiful and he felt a constant pull towards her. He needed to make sure she felt comfortable here. There was a constant throbbing between his thighs that made his desire a cold shower.

"Thank you for having lunch with me. I cannot remember a time when I enjoyed a simple meal as much as I have enjoyed this one."

 

[Perplexia]

Flora smiled and nodded to his comment about her drawing up the documents. For the first time she found herself sad that this meeting was ending. She had a lot of work to get started on, as well as to begin preparation for all they would do. "It has been a divine pleasure meeting and having lunch with you. I certainly look forward to our next meeting. If you would be so kind to have a car take me back to the cottage. I will get started on everything. Is there an assistant that i could have use of?"

Standing up she held out her hand to shake it. His hand was cool and his grip was firm. The electricity of his touch struck her making her stumble into him. His hands steadied her his face looked worried as he asked if she was ok. She nodded as he helped her sit back down. "I'm okay" she said softly. Her facial expression displayed confusion at her bodies reaction from touching him.

Taking a sip of her drink, she slowly regained her composure. "I know this is going to sound strange. But when our hands touched, did you feel any reaction. Like electric waves traveling through you?"