[October Catch All]

[cryptsleeper]

Who: Alucard + ???
When: October
Where: Norwich, Free Cities, Horizon
What: The usual about town business
Warnings: Added as needed


>

Comments

Nocwich | OTA

[cryptsleeper]

[Alucard knows the bloodwine vendors in Nocwich well by now. He’s comfortable in the shops, he knows who carries what, and frankly, he appreciates the monthly ritual of going to stock up. There are familiar faces, and they regard him with a polite interest without becoming overly friendly.

The aisles are narrow though, and that means having to manuever around others every so often. He tries to be polite about it though, making sure his approaching footsteps are loud, as is his polite:]

Excuse me, if I could pass through?

[ancunin]

[ For Astarion, the bloodwine and the hot springs are the only reasons worth stepping into Nocwich's eternal darkness. He has little love for his own kind, even less for werewolves, and no trust for the tame appearances on display.

Still, he can't completely fight the draw of this particular shop. And here, at least, he doesn't need to keep his hood up as he does in the streets of Cadens. The bite marks on his neck are covered by the high collar of his shirt, but his pointed ears are on display. He refuses to skulk here. ]

Of course. [ he replies to the stranger with a sharp grin, and it looks as though he means to move aside, then doesn't - ] Although, perhaps - could I bother you for recommendations?

[cryptsleeper]

[Alucard nods in polite enough agreement, not blinking at the pointed ears on the man requesting someone who in a moment of quiet self examination, probably looks a little too knowledgeable about the wine situation. Carrying a basket with six bottles is what Alucard might call borderline Belmont behavior but on the other, Nocwich is only open three days out of the month.]

Well, a recommendation always relies on preference, which means at least one or two questions I have to volley back to you. The first is do you find yourself enjoying stronger mineral or tanin-based content or do you prefer the sweeter side of things? The second is are their fruits you absolutely hate and would never drink the juice of?

[His tone is polite. There's no attempt to hide his own fangs as he speaks, and frankly, Alucard looks entirely at ease with himself in this discussion.]

feel free to roll for or ignore the d&d stuff!

[ancunin]

[ The amount of bottles certainly leads Astarion to believe the man can't be a native of Ikorr. Knowing that there are more vampires lurking about the factions, potentially Cadens, makes him even more ill at ease. But his smile remains perfectly in place, with only a slight tension in his gaze to belie his misgivings (Optional, Insight Check DC 18). ]

I can honestly say that I've had enough bitterness for two lifetimes, so why not something sweet? [ His gaze flicks to Alucard's lips in a way that might be mistaken for seductive as he clocks the fangs. ]

Well, nothing specific I dislike, no - but... [ and he waves a hand now, his gaze scanning the bottles. ] The less additives, the better. Personally.

[ Anything mixed in that isn't blood normally might as well be ash and vinegar to his tongue. This wine, however... with his senses temporarily dulled it'd been hard to tell the source of the blood. It tasted suspiciously - and deliciously, human. Close enough that it went straight to his head. ]

[cryptsleeper]

Hm. [Alucard, for probably what counts as better, misses anything untowards in the glance at his fangs. He'd find it strange if he did, but then, Alucard's comfortable enough in his own heritage to not think twice about it.]

That's a difficult balance to strike. Usually the sweeter wines have more additives in them, meaning if your diet errs towards the bloodier side of the equation, there will be sharper tastes involved. Hm.

[The dhampir's eyes linger on the shelves. He then walks away entirely from the aisle and goes down another, considering the options, then moving to a third. When he returns, there is a bottle in each hand, and both are held out to be evaluated.]

The black currant is as best as you'll be able to get with a note of sweetness and a primarily blood based profile. The fall mix is really more of a spice based wine with some faint notes of apple.

[What Alucard has not done is ask about price point. He's not going to. That's just polite.]

Horizon | OTA

[cryptsleeper]

[Alucard’s Domain stands again, all November moodiness and gentle fog rolling along the ground. For those unfamiliar with the place as it was, the changes made might not be noticed.

For those more familiar with the place, walking along the winding paths that never seem to quite reach the source of smoke in the distance yields new surprises. There are benches now, made of felled trees with seating carved out. A few have tables available, although the question of drinks or food is not addressed. One small nook near a stream has a lower lying stump meant to act as a footrest.

There are more bird calls now, occasionally breaking the silence. A murmuration of starlings passes over head every so often. The place is not as alive as a real forest might be, but for all the surrounding walls of thorns and moodiness, the note struck is just a little bit different.

So it goes for anyone capable of following the true path that leads to the small hut Alucard has in the center of the Domain. There are two dedicated rocking chairs outside of it now, meant for guests. There’s a pot of warm chicken broth on the table between the two chairs, and often a dhampir seated there, watching the world quietly.]

--It’s unchanged, really.

Cadens | OTA

[cryptsleeper]

At the graveyard

This would, admittedly, go faster if Jaskier was here.

[It is a silly thing, planting spring bulbs along one of the side paths of the graveyard when one’s friend practically overruns with plant magic. But there is something that feels right about getting on one’s hands and knees to do some gardening work and doing it for the dead. Alucard’s noticed that western side of the graveyard gets fewer visitors. It feels right to make it look nicer, if only for the dead there.

He exhales, reaching for a pot full of bulbs that will blossom in the spring and under the unique conditions that Jaskier has created. For a graveyard in a desert climate, the burial grounds are lush and green, only just starting to fade with the oncoming autumn.

After a time, he rises to his feet, work done for the day. Walks the paths, aware that the dark grows nearer and there is no natural lighting in the graveyard itself. Anyone still straggling is given a clearing of his throat before being asked:] Do you need directions before they close the gates?


In front of Old Public Hall

[Cooler evenings bring out more people.

Alucard knows this to be true, because he is not the only person that sits along the entrance of the Hall when the light begins to fade, watching people gather. Some are attending whatever is being held in the Hall itself, others are heading home or to dinner or to just go drink. Small children always tug adults over towards the statue that Viktor and Jayce put up, and there is always some wonder in their eyes.

There’s a familiar rhythm to it all, and as Alucard leans back a little in his seat, the smile on his face stays.

Lingering feels a little obnoxious after a while, but he stays until dark truly settles in. Then he stands, sometimes walking off immediately and others noticing a familiar face, which is an excuse to stay.]

the graveyard;

[thedreamer]

[ For all the planets the Doctor has visited and all the things he's seen, he hasn't often lingered in something like a graveyard for very long, at least not without a purpose. In fact, this place conjures sad memories, reminding him of Amy and Rory, their last moments together being in a graveyard. He was left with only their names and the dates they lived inscribed on the austere, cold stone. Did anyone ever linger there and wonder what stories that small dash joining the day of birth and the day of death contained? Oh, they couldn't possibly know the Ponds, not like he did, never like him. There'd been another graveyard recently, that had sparked his interest in the mystery of Clara Oswald.

But this is a new thing for him, trapped and wandering, taking time to study things at far greater depth than both his boundless energy and the urgency of most of his adventures has ever allowed.

Here, on this night in this quiet graveyard, a man plants something with the hope of bringing beauty and joy to the earth cradling the dead. And so, the Doctor wants to know more about this man, naturally.

A soft smile and then — ]

Oh, I always find my way, not to worry. Where are you off to, though? I'll follow!

[ A latcher-on, basically. He never has any qualms about inviting himself. ]

[cryptsleeper]

[The smile is met with a more serious frown. An invitation along to anywhere at all had not been offered, and given his deep preference for privacy, it isn't something the dhampir appreciates.

Tempering the desire to not be rude but to have some alone time, there's a politely offered response of:]

With respect, I have a few other things to see to here.

[There are other ways to shake an unwanted guest, but the lie that implies being a caretaker of the grounds is always a favorite.]

[thedreamer]

[ For all the hundreds of years the Doctor has spent amongst humans, he can still be awkward and off-putting, oblivious at times to social cues to the extent that he couldn't grasp that his offer might be offensive. He never means harm and once he's realized he has, he'll attempt to correct it. ]

Oh! Right, of course. Well done, Doctor. [ Chiding himself out loud, as he does. ] A thousand years at this and I'm still learning. Sorry!

[ He gives a polite nod by way of departure as he turns to go. ]

Do let me know if you need any help.

[cryptsleeper]

[....Right. Alucard's eyebrows raise, the chiding impossible to miss. He's met plenty of those in the centuries department, having a vampire father means that such a thing is inevitable. A thousand years old and missing the gentle I'd like privacy while being in a grave yard vibe is wholly new.

He'll make sense of that later.]

The gates are usually unlocked around sunrise.

[It is as polite as he can counter offer. There's no reason not to explore the burial grounds - that's what they are there for. Besides, Jaskier's put so much effort into the landscaping.]

Closed | Jaskier

[cryptsleeper]

I can't do anything else with the sconces until you have an electrician come and do the wiring for them, but the location of each has been marked.

[It isn't the most exciting announcement Alucard has ever made upon entering a room. In fact, it is the most routine thing he's ever uttered to Jaskier, and that feels quite nice.

With the new house, Alucard offered to assist with some interior decoration but go overboard with it. That meant a few opinions about additional light fixtures, ending with wall sconces that could play host to floral wreaths throughout every season.

He's pretty sure that those wreaths are done at any rate, and so he simply takes a seat on the sofa.]

Did you need me to do anything else while I'm here?

[cointosser]

[Jaskier huffs at the dhampir as he continues to use phrases like "electricity" and "electrician" as if Jaskier is supposed to still be able to come to terms with such a concept. While the shadow of Rience no longer stalks his waking moments -- either here or in the Horizon -- he still thinks he prefers fire.

At least now.]

I almost feel like if you're making this more complicated on purpose.

[He says, as if he hasn't already told Alucard he was excessively impressed by the look of the sconces. Gold, but tasteful. Alucard definitely chose them with Jaskier in mind, which he absolutely appreciates.]

Well, since you're here... I have a giant pot out back I would love to be on the roof, under the awning. I don't suppose floating and carrying something that heavy would be much trouble?

[It's hardly a question. Of course he can do it.]

[cryptsleeper]

[It is a house of the future Jaskier. And the sconces look good.]

I'm really not. This is normal in the castle back home. And those sconces are much more elaborate.

[There's a little tone of smugness in his voice, although they both know the dhampir is just teasing/being a dick. He grins, nodding along with the next work order.]

Not at all. Show me where you want it, so I'm putting it in the precise spot.

[Unike the office, which was a collaborative effort, this is Jaskier's house. He calls the shots, and that means no dhampir opinions given unless requested.

Or he's really, really opinionated about some detail.]

[cointosser]

You mean the castle that teleports magically? That castle?

[He's making a point!! Even though it's moot because he does like the spot of... modernity. And less fire is probably safer. Mog has a habit of being very fascinated by anything that creates light, unfortunately, and nursing a burned paw on a particularly ornery gryphon is not his idea of a good time.]

Bless you. [He laughs.] I'm not that much of an arse about how things look. Am I? [He pauses.] No, don't answer that. Just grab it and I'll meet you up there!

[He's already off up the stairs, waiting for him. There's not a chance he can miss the very round, large pot full of soil, with little green sprouts poking out of it, reaching for the sun.

[He peeks over the edge of the roof, waiting for his floating friend.] Right in this corner, if you please. You know, I'm starting to think levitation may be the next magic I begin investing in.

[cryptsleeper]

The castle that's also full of technology that's on par with where the Free Cities are at right now? Yes, that castle.

[Alucard follows after Jaskier, and frankly, not being in control is fine. Easier in this situation if he is being fully honest. It means less dumb arguments, but also it is a better way of learning to listen to clients as well. It means that Jaskier's question gets nothing more than a raised eyebrow. The bard can call himself out, really.

The pot is plenty obvious. It gets picked up with an easy gesture, and he follows Jskier around to the edge of the roof, floating as if he is simply walking on air. It is very normal.]

Hm. I don't know if I'd advise that since you don't have instant healing if you fall.

[But tada. The plant is where it ought to be.] Do you need me to rotate it at all?

Closed | Hilda | Eifstide

[cryptsleeper]

I think the laces are just right. I can test the movement if you'll let me open my eyes.

[Alucard feels a little silly, standing in Hilda's office with his eyes closed.
For a final fitting, there is a lot of emphasis on surprise. He's played along, discarding the sheer lace shirt he brought along in case there was a need for a little buffer layer between corset and skin, and stood quietly with his eyes closed so that the reveal of the corset would be on his body rather than being presented in Hilda's arms.

He feels comfortable. There's a lot of skin to show, but he has his embroidered coat with him if it feels too overwhelming. Someone has added padding, and there restriction around his midsection does not feel like it will come undone any time soon.]

[theidlemaiden]

[ After their initial fitting Hilda had indeed asked Navi to help her create a new corset from scratch. Even if he didn't wear it ever again after this she hopes that he'll keep it. Or if that doesn't happen, let her keep it. She had put a lot of work into it and dare she say, she was proud of the final product - even if a part of her still itched to add just the final touch.

It takes Hilda twice as long today to ensure that the corset fits. It's a dark black satin, buttery smooth to the touch, carefully chosen so that it would stand out against his pale skin while complimenting the embroidered coat. The resin apparatus made to look like stained glass sits like a cage fits snug and close to the fabric, the gems and precious stones she's chosen for it glinting in the light of the fading day that streams through the window. Any time he moves, the soft clink of beads and crystals sounds.

She forces herself to knot the ties at the back and takes a step back. Her hands move him towards the mirror and she lets out a breath. She keeps a close eye on his face waiting to see his reaction to the corset. Would he hate it? ]

Okay. You can open your eyes.

[cryptsleeper]

[Even before Alucard's opened his eyes, the beads and crystals make themselves known. There's movement in the garment even if it is meant to sit snug against the skin. That also means weight, two things that he'd never naturally associate with a corset.

So he can be forgiven for being breathless when he opens his eyes and takes a good look at what Hilda has created. There's no noise, only wide eyes and the immediate look downwards to his own chest to try and examine more of the details. His fingers move over the beads, curious and careful. To wear the corset is to not be able to examine some of the details properly, but that's also the point. The fit is more important.

Still, Alucard takes several steps closer to the mirror to try and get a better view. Turns and twists, trying to look at every angle possible. Vaguely, he thanks himself for keeping it simple and just wearing black trousers and his regular boots.

He keeps turning, curious if there are any details on the back. But Alucard can't 180 on himself, and it finally leaves him looking at Hilda, aware that his quiet was likely causing anxiety at this point.]

I am so rarely at a loss for words. I still don't have them. That is how well you've done.

[theidlemaiden]

[ When he opens his eyes at first she's convinced he hates it. He isn't saying anything after all and silence has always been the worst conversation partner that never fails to incite anxiety in her.

A torrent of apologies is on her lips but then he moves away from her closer to the mirror literally swaying from to side sending the strings of crystals and beads singing as they hit one another. She tries not to laugh at him in that moment because despite still looking as ethereal and regal as ever he still looks so silly. Hilda's lips twitch uncertainly still not wanting to jump to any conclusions about him liking the corset. Not until he said it aloud himself. She feels like she's holding her breath right until he actually speaks. Relief floods her features. ]

Really? You like it? Oh thank Goddess I was so worried that you would hate it.

[ She spins on her heels, suddenly overcome with embarrassment and hoping to hide the flush of happiness spreading across her cheeks for a little while longer. There's a purpose to it though. A box sits on her desk that is quickly retrieved. The lid is pulled up to reveal the choker inside. ]

Now you don't have to wear this - I just got carried away because there was some leftover material that I didn't want to go to waste. It's just more like they're a set and you should see them together even if it never sees the light of day.

[cryptsleeper]

--There's more?

[The question is surprised and breathless. It feels like something Alucard should have expected if he is being honest with himself, but....no, he didn't expect it. What an idiot he is. And what an excellent flourish that Hilda has created that aligns so perfectly with the rest of it.

He's been rather physically repelled by holy things in the past, but it isn't like there's a Church in Abraxas. They can roll the dice.]

Well, why don't we see how they look together and if one detracts from the other? Then-- [Wait.]

Dare I ask what you're wearing to these festivities?

[Not that Alucard isn't moving his hair out of the way to make Hilda's life easier when it comes to getting the choker on.]

Also Jaskier | Closed

[cryptsleeper]

[Going out in what Hilda created, both corset and choker paired with plain black trousers, boots, and nothing else, has been what the dhampir might consider an experience. The cold is not a problem walking through the streets and observing the Eifstide celebrations. They're charming. Becoming more and more familiar over the years, and this one doesn't look as if there will be any dead popping up from the cemetery. (He's armed, just in case.) It is a question of exposure, and he is still unsure how he feels.

The glances are expected. He's gone tits out before, back when Old Public Hall had the first concert Jaskier gave to raise funds and when Alucard himself was still in the throws of depression. He hadn't noticed the looks he got then. Now he does. Some eyebrows are raised, a few eyes express more raw desires, and every so often, his heart races in a panic.

But no one attacks or is especially terrible once he's enclosed in the celebration that is being held on the street and the steps of Old Public Hall, leading into a few other businesses and homes in the area. It is a point of pride that many of those who do approach are more interested in who made the corset, and he happily offers Hilda's name to all and sundry.

Still, he's cautious. Stands around with a wine glass in hand, and keeps an eye out for people he knows. There's a few faces, and then from across the room--]

Jaskier?

[The life of any celebration, really.]

[cointosser]

[It should be unsurprising for either of them to find the other around the Old Public Hall, considering how like they are to simply pop up around anything near a celebration taking place there. Besides, Jaskier has been coming to test the drinks being offered, and it's there that he's sipping a bright orange drink made of juice with strong undertones of liquor, his lute strapped to his back.

It's hard to say whether he's already performed or is planning on doing it quite soon, possibly inebriated. But that will not stop him.

It is only the fact that Jaskier knows how expensive this drink is that he doesn't drop it in shock.]

Adrian? [The name he uses when he is being very serious or making a very important point is what slips out first. Jaskier open-mouth gapes at him, his eyes going from the corset, to the boots, then back up. He -- oh. Oh, wow.] I don't mean this in any mean way, I solemnly swear, but... did you lose a bet? And with whom? Because they have excellent taste.

[cryptsleeper]

More of an Hilda-and-I-egged-each-other-on situation, actually.

[Jaskier is the only one who is going to know the truth of the matter, because he is a friend and because Alucard is trying not to grin too much at the reaction. The impressed version of Jaskier is much, much nicer to deal with than the shrieking because there are bats in the house version, and no, he hasn't gotten over that yet.]

She honestly could make a second business with the craftsmanship here.

[cointosser]

[He should have guessed, only because the number of people he knows that do have excellent taste is far more limited than he would like. He moves around Alucard, taking in every angle of the -- well, it is undoubtedly a corset, and Alucard is not wearing anything under it, nor over it, which is certainly a step forward.

He simply can't believe Hilda is the one who convinced him to do so.]

I always knew I liked her for good reason. [And not because he is stunningly aware of how easily she could kill him, or anyone else. (And look, he maintains the bat incident is not his fault.)]

She should. Why isn't she? [And she made this? Specifically for him? It certainly suits the theme he went with at the fae masquerade.] She certainly has some significant influence over you, but at least she's using it entirely for good.

[He's teasing, mostly. But Jaskier is watching his friend's face for a sign of... something. Sypha has been gone a long time, after all.]