RPG SPEC: Dagger of the Mind Sequel to "Hollywood Vampires" Parts 63-65, Posts 621-650 _________________________________________________________________________ Post 621: Daniel "Show's over. I'm ready! Now what's this about a car for me?" She grinned. "Oh Jess, you're going to love it! It's mint green with...I think those were rust patches, but I'll have to take a better look at it now, it could have just been dirt." Jesse blink. Perhaps it was an old classic that he was going to re- build. "What make is it?" "A '79 chevy...hmmm, he didn't tell me the specifics, but I think it was a chevette." "And this you got for me?" "Yeah! It was Christian Slater's. He lost a bet with me and I got the car." "Daniel honey, are you sure he *lost* that bet?" "Jess, I know what you're thinking, but this is a good thing! Any vampire can have a nice new shiny, just off the line, candy apple red porche, but how many of us have eye sores like that! Just *think* of the look we'll get when we park that thing out front of Armand's villa! You know when it comes to material possessions, there are no two people more snobbier then Lestat and Armand. "Speaking of the car, I have to get back down and get the keys from him...Jess, do me a favor and pick something out for me to wear. If I do it, I'll be totally mismatched." _________________________________________________________________________ Post 622: Jesse Jesse slipped her arms around Daniel's neck. "You trust me that much..." she gave him a mischievous grin. "Yeah..." Daniel took a handful of the red hair and pulled her in for another kiss. "Just don't make me look like an Easter egg..." Jesse giggle and smoothed her hair back from her face. "Oh...shhhhhhhit." "What?" He laughed. He had never heard her swear before. "My hair's all tangled. I was going to cut it off before you got home." She sighed. "Don't do that... look, get my clothes and I'll brush it out for you... we can do it downstairs where there's better light." He grabbed her hand and kissed it. Jesse smiled brightly. "Oh! I like that..." She kissed his cheek. "I'll get your stuff." Darting from the room, Jesse burst into Daniel's old room. Clothes were scattered all over the place. "Just like a man..." She shrugged and tried to find an unwrinkled shirt. She unearthed a black silk turtleneck, a grey suede vest,and grey jeans. It was hardly an equal of the wrinkled mass that formerly was a tuxedo, but it would do. "Here we go." She announced, as she skipped back into their bedroom."You have to do some serious shopping." "Why?" Daniel asked, taking the clothes from her hands. "You're suffering a shortage..." "Hell... I've got enough..." He started undressing. Jesse sat on the bed watching him, a big toothy grin on her face. "Your fangs are showing." Daniel glanced at her before he pulled on the turtleneck. "You've got a great looking butt." Jesse tilted her head to one side and admired the sight. "Thank you." He muttered under the shirt. "I think I'm going to like living with Armand's new coven... all those gorgeous men... unless Gabby shows up, I'll be the only girl." Daniel laughed as he pulled on his jeans. "Aren't you forgetting someone else?" Jesse sat thoughtfully counting female vampires on her hand. "No..." "Louis?" Daniel chuckled. Jesse walloped him with the pillow. "That's not nice." Daniel seized the pillow and swatted her with it. "Yeah..." he laughed. "I know." Grabbing the Daniel by the hand she pulled him to the door. "Come on... I'll get my hairbrush, you put on your vest and we can go downstairs... I want to see this wonderful heap you've won for me. God, I hope it's a stick shift." _________________________________________________________________________ Post 623: Pandora Pandora cursed silently. She hadn't meant to snipe at Gabrielle like that, but her retort about Brad had touched a sore spot she didn't know she had! She had lashed out reflexively and now she had hurt her friend. Gabrielle smiled tightly at her, doing a poor job of covering, her wounded feelings. "Well, Pandy, would you like to break up 'Mr. Chip's' lecture up there with me or can you politely point out the way?" Pandora did a quick scan. "No, they seem to be talking calmly now..." Pandora trailed off and gave Gabrielle a rueful look. "I'm sorry about the Dr. Spock thing, Gabs. I know you do the best you can, and who am I to talk. I've never had a child in my life - which has been far longer that I want either of us to mention." She tried to laugh it off, but her eyes fell on the beautiful mortal child she allowed to live in her house, and the laugh trailed off into a sigh. Before Gabrielle could reply, Antonio glided up to his maker and kissed her lightly, warmly, before going to meet the other mortal boy Daniel had brought home. Pandora watched Brad watching Antonio and sighed again. Making a broad gesture to where the three young men stood, Pandora said quietly, "Gabrielle, that new son of yours is going to need some help with this..." _________________________________________________________________________ Post 624: Antonio Antonio met David's look seriously, then nodded a little. "Thank you for your help. I... ask your forgiveness for my earlier actions." "You are most welcome." David replied, equally gracious. Antonio considered. "Regarding residence... I must speak to Gabrielle. On many things. I'll include that on the list." "She's here." David said softly. Gabrielle? She is here?" Just arrived... with an actor, it seems..." Antonio frowned and headed out the door. What he saw offered a multitude of possibilities. He could gather Gabrielle in his arms and never let her go. He could greet Chris, looking wide-eyed at Gabrielle... or he could throw himself at Brad's feet and beg forgiveness. "Since there is a mortal present" he thought to himself, "I'll try to behave." Then he stilled, a wave of ice going through him. He had been referring to Christian. He no longer considered Brad a mortal, even in his heart. The moan was so soft even a vampire would have been hard pressed to hear it. He briefly closed his eyes then forced them open, forced a smile to his lips. He crossed over to his creator, dropping a light kiss on her lips. "Good evening, Gabrielle." He offered her an intimate smile before moving over to clasp Chris warmly. "I didn't know you were in town yet!" "Only just got here." Chris looked thoroughly shell shocked. "I thought I landed in this halfway house for beautiful blonds and wayward actors by mistake. But... I expect Tom to come leaping from the curtains any second now!" "Tom isn't here." Antonio said softly, trying to smile at Chris, "But he is on his way." "Great." he groaned, then smiled. "Good to see you again, man." He tried to return the greeting, but kept it short. Then, unable to put it off any longer, he turned to face Brad, watching the wealth of emotions flash across his handsome face. It broke his heart to know that he was the one who had caused them. Moving slowly Antonio stepped forward, taking Brad gently in his arms. "I'm sorry, amigo. I"m so sorry..." He left it hanging. What could he say? "I'm sorry for my actions"? "I'm sorry we're in this situation"? "I'm sorry you will die soon, as I did, as Tom will, as Chris and all the others might"? "I'm sorry for your lost humanity, that you have assumed the legacy of the Beautiful One..."? "I'm sorry." he whispered again. Looking up, meeting Brad's eyes, he saw at once that his friend understood all too well exactly what he was saying. _________________________________________________________________________ Post 625: Brad Brad's head turned at the sound of a door opening nearby. Tony. Brad watched as he went to Gabrielle...Gabrielle who was his maker. In his astonishment at finding Chris in the house he had been able to pass over her presence - but now, watching Tony bend to kiss her gently, no reproach or hesitation in him, Brad had to readjust his blame factoring. How could he fault her for saving Tony from madness and death? How could he blame her when Tony didn't? He saw the love in her eyes as she watched Tony move toward him. He knew then, that at least someone on the other side of life loved his friend. Brad looked down at the carpeting, as Tony came to greet Chris, for once tongue-tied and awkward with him. He couldn't help it though, when his head came up a moment later. Chris had said something about Tom... "Tom isn't here." Antonio said softly, trying to smile at Chris, "But he is on his way." "Great." Chris groaned, then smiled as he shook Tony's hand. "Good to see you again, man." Brad smiled at his young friend. He'd had almost as bad a time with Tom on the last picture as Brad had...almost. A small, amused smile flitted across his face as he thought about how far they'd come since then. And then he found himself face to face with Tony. He didn't know what to say - or what to think or feel for that matter. He shouldn't have worried, Tony solved the problem for him. Moving slowly Antonio stepped forward, taking him gently in his arms. "I'm sorry, amigo. I"m so sorry..." He left it hanging and dropped his eyes, his satin smooth voice a full of misery. Brad couldn't stand it. He knew all the things Tony struggled to say. He knew that his friend was as confused and lost in this whole mess as he was. He knew that Tony was apologizing in advance, and seeking forgiveness, for something that he might be driven to do. "I'm sorry." Tony whispered again. When Tony looked up at him again, Brad simply nodded. "I know you're sorry, Tony. Just try to find another way of convincing me, okay?" Brad saw Tony wince slightly at his words, and moved quickly to hug him. "Hey, don't." He whispered in Tony's ear. ::But I made you afraid of me, mi amigo. I would not have done that for anything in the world.:: Tony switched to the silent communication so that Chris wouldn't hear them. ::Maybe I should be afraid of you...everyone keeps telling me I should.:: Brad felt funny just thinking and not saying what he felt, but he knew very well that they could all hear what was in his head - and therefore his heart. ::And I was afraid, for a bit - but Tony, man, I can't *stay* afraid of you. Hell, you're my best friend! How can I be afraid of my best friend?:: Brad pulled away from Tony and looked deep into his eyes. "You are my very best friend, and I'm not going to let you forget it!" _________________________________________________________________________ Post 626: Tom Tom woke trembling, covered with sweat, heart thundering. Moaning softly he turned, reaching for Brad to complete what his ill timed awakening had so rudely interrupted. Brad wasn't there. Opening his eyes, Tom woke fully, looking around. He was definitely alone. Glancing at the bedside clock he saw that full dark must have fallen, or at least must be imminent. Groaning, he pulled himself up, commanding his raging body to behave itself. His body, of course, ignored him. He sighed and moved to the window, peeking outside, witnessing the last of a glorious sunset, golden fire blazing across the far horizon. "Take a good look, Thomas." he said quietly to himself. "You never know when it will be your last." Finally he pulled himself away, set a record for the world's fastest shower, then paused, finally selecting clothes appropriate for a party. He knew he looked good in a suit. Better in that, probably, than just about anything else. He pulled on a white silk shirt and a dark, tailor made outfit which suddenly made the hair too casual. He pulled it back into a ponytail, then stepped back to do a quick once over. Perfect. The effect was a perfect blend of rapscallion and cavalier. In fact, it was perfect "Lestat". He loved it. "I need an earring" he muttered, heading out. Later. Now... crossing the living room quietly he gently knocked on the closed door. "Lestat?" "He is not here, my friend." Tom spun around, only then detecting the presence of the man he had walked right by. "Santino! How long have you been here?" "Since last night." He stood, facing the actor, indicating the outfit. "You are going out?" "There's a gathering in the works. I wanted Lestat to know of it." Tom paused. How much did Lestat trust Santino? Pretty much, it seemed, if they were sharing quarters together. "Lestat and I are friends." Santino agreed neutrally. Startled, Tom met the dancing eyes, then grinned. "No secrets in this coven." "Precious few, true. Though you are not a member quite yet." Tom sobered at once. "I know." He rapidly changed the subject. "There is a gathering, like I said. It looks as though most of the principle cast will be there, along with several members of the coven. I thought Lestat might enjoy a night out, so..." "You thought to invite him." "Yes. You're sure he's not here?" "I am sure, though you may feel free to check." He indicated the door to Lestat's bedroom with a smile. The temptation was fierce, but Tom knew he could not. So he settled for a compromise. "If he is not there, could you perhaps tell him?" "Tell him?" "About the party. I'm not sure where we'll end up. Pandora seems to have something specific in mind. But it should be easy enough to find us." He suddenly smiled, getting a little of his spirit back. "And of course, you should consider yourself invited as well." The look Santino leveled at him was utterly without emotion. "Indeed?" was all he said, but Tom was suddenly reminded, rather forcefully, of Santino's outcast status. Tom bridled at the thought. The incident had happened 500 years ago. A life taken, a life returned. Enough was enough. "Indeed." he said firmly. "Tell Lestat, find Louis, and join us." Santino smiled again, reminding Tom of a wolf. "And what of Armand? And Marius?" Tom shrugged. "If they don't attend... " he shrugged. Santino actually laughed this time. "You are unwise to discount them quite so easily, my friend, but the show of support is appreciated." Smiling a little, Tom made for the door. "I've got to go. George and Gordon are waiting." "Tom, how are you getting to First Street?" He stopped half way to the door, his mind working furiously. Had he mentioned his destination to Santino? Or had he plucked this information from his mind as well? The common powers of the vampires still dazzled him. It was all he could do to respond to the question. "Cab, I assume." The vampire shook his head. "Limousine." "Limousine?" "Go. Find your friends. They will be waiting for you downstairs." "They?" Santino laughed again, relaxing a little. "I'll offer you a cracker should you repeat anything else. Yes, they. As in more than one. I thought perhaps you and Brad might enjoy a little privacy, at least for the trip to wherever Pandora has in mind." Startled, Tom met his eyes, suddenly getting the impression that he had somehow made a friend of this one, though he was not quite sure how or when. "Thank you." The vampire merely nodded and Tom took his leave, pausing outside just to get his bearings and to draw in a breath. Then he reached up, fingering his ear unhappily. "I really need an earring." He put the thought aside and hurried to George's door. Gordon opened it. "Good evening." Tom said graciously. "Are you ready to go?" George stood just behind him. "Where, exactly, are we going?" Tom shrugged. "I'm not entirely sure myself. Though I know where we are meeting." "You don't know where we're going?" Sting asked, the most polite sneer Tom had ever heard. "The consultants I mentioned. They are choosing the location. It is supposed to be something of a surprise, from what I understand." He shrugged. "I'm comfortable with it." George frowned a little, reaching for his coat. "Just who are these consultants? Martin never said anything about them." "Martin has met some of them." Tom replied easily, trying to emphasize just how casual it all was to him. Time enough for worries later. "I have met a good number of them. They are experts brought in to help with some of the... shooting details." "In what field?" Sting's sneer was becoming a little more pronounced. Tom simply raised his eyebrow. "If you question their credentials, I suggest you ask them yourself." He smiled again, indicating that *this* conversation was definitely at an end. "Are we ready?" George looked at them both, a little impatiently. "I am." He pulled the leather coat on and headed out the door, Tom following immediately. Sting was left to close the door and lock it, giving Tom the few precious seconds he needed alone with George. "George," he said, voice low. "I'm sorry about before. I know I did not make much sense. But... please, believe that I was sincere. If you see anything... odd tonight... talk to me first. Or if you feel uncomfortable... " He was running out of time. "I'm sorry I can't be clearer than this. I'm sure you already think I've lost my mind." "The thought did occur to me, yeah." George smiled to take the barb from his words, but it was obvious he was a little uncomfortable. "Fair enough." Tom nodded. "It might make more sense to you tonight. I'll be honest. If you never figure out what I'm talking about, I'll be the happiest guy on planet earth." Sting joined them, which was just as well, for George was clearly not comfortable with any of this. Sighing inwardly, Tom simply smiled and played the gracious host, not batting an eye at the three gleaming black limousines waiting for them in front of the hotel. When George raised an eyebrow he simply said "We've a few people to pick up." Then he slid into the back of the lead limo, leaving the second one for George and Sting. After giving the driver the address he settled back, closing his eyes and allowing a small shiver to run through him. "God, please... enough is enough. These two don't need to be involved with this." It was as close as he could come to asking for divine intercession. The rest of the ride he spent trying to calm his nerves, resisting the urge to check his appearance a thousand times. "You were the sexiest man in America, Thomas." he told himself firmly. "You look fine." "True," a devilish voice in his mind immediately replied. "But he *is* the sexiest man in America... and he woke up alone." Groaning softly once more, he forced himself to look out the window, only occasionally checking his appearance in the darkened glass. When they pulled up at First Street, lights blazed from every window. "Full house." he muttered as the driver opened the door for him. He waited until George and Sting emerged, then escorted them to the porch, ringing the bell. Almost at once it was answered by a slightly bemused mortal. "Hi Tom. Who ya got here?" "Chris?" Tom was just as startled to see him, but recovered quickly. "Christian Slater, meet George Clooney and... Gordon Sumner. Known short term as Santino and Marius. May we come in?" "Why not?" Chris said, shaking each man's hand in tern. "The rest of the world is here. May as well join the party." Tom eased in then stopped, looking at the tableau which presented itself. A petite, *exquisite* blonde stood talking with Pandora. She could be none other than Gabrielle. He was rewarded for his thought by a glance and brief nod from the lady in question. But, as spectacular as she was, she paled next to Brad. He stood, seemingly unaffected by the chaos around him, holding Antonio. The blue silk would match his eyes had he looked up to see him standing there. He did not, though, but instead stood and held Antonio tightly, whispering what appeared to be words of comfort. Tom frowned, wondering what disaster could have possibly struck in so short a time. Then, considering the thought, it seemed a shorter list to consider what might not have gone wrong. With a polite nod at any he passed, he moved over to the two of them, gently running his hand down Brad's arm. "Everything all right?" When Brad looked up the relief in his eyes was so intense Tom thought he might pounce there and then. Instead the hugged Antonio once more then released him, with a look which obviously promised that they would speak again later. Seeming miserable, Antonio nodded, not even meeting Tom's eyes. "What...?" he began, only to be silenced by the troubled look in Brad's eyes. He looked around at all the people in the hallway, then shook his head. "Not here. Come on." He turned on his heel and left the entranceway, heading for the dark, quiet study. Tom followed at once. _________________________________________________________________________ Post 627: Gabrielle All Gabrielle heard were Antonio's few words and the light kiss he bestowed upon her. My, that one would always melt her heart! She watched her fledgling gently glide over to Chris and to Brad and she smiled. Such contentment washed over her to see the one she had given her Gift to, and she loved him like no other, well except for.... ::She must be Gabrielle:: Ah her son's alter ego strutting into the room, might as well be civil she supposed as she answered his question with a nod and a smile. Tom was such a natural now, none of this vampire stuff bothering him a bit. She laughed silently over Tom's role as Lestat. :: Couldn't do my son justice:: she thought. :: That he cannot, but who can be such a brat? :: Pandora's voice chimed in on key. A giggle escaped Gabrielle and she beamed up at Pandora. She had forgotten in all this madness how treasured a friend was and how she missed laughing with Pandy and Jesse. Sadness descended on her as a veil as she realized how much everything had so suddenly changed. "Ah Pandora, nothing the same anymore?" She gave her friend a little nudge, "I forgot about how much fun we used to have..." Gabrielle's voice trailed off as she saw Tom and Brad exit the room. Her eyes rested on Antonio, she tugged at Pandora's arm, "I need to take care of some motherly duties. I'll be back." Gracefully, Gabrielle stood and slowly sauntered over to her fledgling with a smile. Gently, she placed her hand on his arm, "Bonsoir, mon cher." _________________________________________________________________________ Post 628: Lestat Lestat made the trip back to the hotel as quick as he could, never daring to take his arm away from Louis' side and thrilled when he saw that Louis had no intention of asking him to do so. He quickly keyed into the suite then stopped short at the dark figure who greeted him. "Hello again, Brat," Santino smiled from where he sat in the common room. "And hello to you too, Louis." "Good evening, Santino," Louis' normal polite demeanor was somewhat distracted as he looked around the large quarters. "Mon Dieu, Lestat, all this room for just the two of you!" He grinned. Lestat felt a tiny lick of fear climb up his spine. "It's not just us, Louis...." "No," Santino said. "The mortal Tom is staying here as well." "What!" Louis' green gaze nearly cut straight through Lestat. "Lestat, that's--" "I know, I know," Lestat said hastily. "But I didn't know what else to do with him. Everyone, including him, is convinced I'm going to make him into a vampire--" "Are you?" Lestat met Louis' eyes head on. "I don't know. But the possibility is there. He's come too far, I don't think he can ever turn back." Then, more quietly, he added, "I'm not asking you to approve, Louis. I know you don't. I'm not even sure *I* approve. But I want you to know that the option is there. I'm not hiding anything from you." There was a very long pause before Louis replied. "Alright then. Thank you for telling me. Now I believe we were going to talk with Marius and Armand?" Lestat tried a nervous smile. "Oui, oui, we were. Here, allow me..." His eyes unfocused just a bit as he reached out to the auburn-haired angel. ::Armand? Are you and Marius free for some company?:: _________________________________________________________________________ Post 629: Louis Tom, a possible fledgling. Louis closed his eyes for a moment. At least this time Lestat was being honest and telling him about his considerations rather than just rashly acting upon the deed. He would try to put it out of his mind for now. Enjoy the evening, enjoy the presence of the golden god at his side. Louis glanced around the lavish room. Yes, Lestat _always_ wanted the best. He watched as Santino moved across the room and arranged himself on the velvet covered L-shaped sofa. Yes, Lestat was generous to those whom he considered his friends. Lestat considered Santino his friend. *I'm your friend, too, Louis... whether you wish to admit it or not!* Louis' eyes met Santino's. The dancing dark jewels showed Santino's good humor. *Ah, but you do have an odd way of displaying such friendship.* Louis returned, smiling. *The end result was desirable, even if it did take a while to achieve.* *Most desirable. You and Lestat appear to have mended the rift, and Antonio hasn't been reduced to a pile of ashes.* Santino replied. *Santino, you prove your loyalties in innumerable ways.* Louis answered, nodding towards the figure in black. *I try, my friend. You may soon see exactly that I _do_ prove my loyalties, to Lestat and to you.* Santino replied into Louis' mind. _________________________________________________________________________ Post 630: Brad His whole body reacted to that touch, even before the softly spoken, "Everything all right?" sounded beside him. He turned to look at Tom and relief flooded him so intensely that he shook. Tony murmured something and tried to pull away but he couldn't let him go just like that. He hugged Tony tight, then released him. ::We *will* finish our conversation later, okay?:: Brad "beamed" the thought at Tony. Antonio nodded, glumly, not even meeting Tom's eyes before he slipped away. "What...?" Tom was beginning to frown with worry. Brad did not want him to get upset in front of several major stars and half the coven! "Not here. Come on." He turned on his heel and left the entranceway, heading for the dark, quiet study. Tom followed at once. He opened the door and Tom brushed past him, flicking the light switch as he entered the room. Brad quickly shut the door behind them, and without thought or hesitation, they reached for each other. Brad trembled under the onslaught of Tom's impassioned kisses. They had almost a desperate quality to them, and he knew his own must echo that. He had been existing in fear that somehow he would never see him again... "Don't do that ever again!" Brad blurted out, tearing his mouth away from Tom's. "What?" Tom continued to kiss him, pressing him against the closed door, his lips freely trailing across his face, his roaming his body. "Leave me like that! Don't leave me alone..." Brad choked out, the stopped at the look on Tom's face. "What's happened? What's upset you?" Small frown lines started to appear again between Tom's eyes. "I wanted you to be there when I woke up," Brad avoided the questions so he wouldn't have to lie. "It's been torture waiting for you to get here!" The frown was replaced by a small, incredulous smile and Tom looked at him with shining eyes. He seemed all at once breathlessly happy. "Really?" Tom asked, almost shyly. Brad kissed him until he was gasping and trembling slightly. "Really." "Damn it, Brad. We can't go out back out there now - look at us!" Tom gestured down at the obvious signs of arousal. Brad's was particularly noticeable through the thin leather of the pants he was wearing. "I don't care, really," Brad grinned. "I've a feeling this will happen quite frequently tonight - every time you touch me, most likely," Brad stroked Tom's cheek and rested his hand against his chest. "As long as we can keep from tearing each other's clothes off and rolling around on the floor, I'll be satisfied!" "You will?" Tom wore a look of mock disappointment. Brad laughed, "No not really," and leaned in for another deep kiss. Tom groaned softly and wrapped his arms tightly around Brad as if he would never let him go. 'Never let me go, Thomas. Never let go!' Brad thought, breaking the kiss and pressing his face against Tom's hair. The business with Tony had frightened him in more ways than one. He was afraid that Tony's blood would take away this feeling, would diminish it somehow - that their passion would be nothing in the face of the ecstacy of the blood. While it wasn't quite the ecstacy, it didn't fall far short! Brad was a meat and potatoes kind of guy. Caviar and oysters weren't his style. Even ecstacy, as a everyday thing, could pale after awhile and where could you go from there? What followed ecstacy? Tom was doing his very best to prove that there was something to be said for ecstacy every second of the day and night, and Brad's pants were growing uncomfortably tight! He pulled away from his lover and took him by the hand, leading him across the floor toward the desk, and the telephone. "Come on, Thomas. I've got just the thing to cool us both down!" Brad grinned at Tom. He picked up the phone and dialed. _________________________________________________________________________ Post 631: Antonio Brad was lost. Antonio knew it with the cold certainty of the grave. He had felt Brad's spirit lift when Tom walked on the room, felt his body shiver under his own hands when Tom approached. Not even his attack could drive Brad from the arms of The Great Pretender. Antonio swore, as he watched the two of them disappear behind closed doors, that he would play that song tonight. He would sing it himself. And he would dedicated it to the three of them. Not only Tom, the most obvious. But all three of them. Brad, pretending to be mortal. Tom, pretending to be immortal. And himself... Antonio.... pretending to be sane. "Bon soir..." he almost did not hear Gabrielle's soft greeting. It took him a moment to focus down on her lovely face. For a moment he felt the ice in his heart melt at the sight of her. "Bon soir, ma mere." he answered softly, smiling at her startled expression. "I did not know you spoke French." she said softly. "Oui." he nodded a little. "My Italian is even better. I've spoken French since I was..." he gestured, indicating a small child. "It is common in Espania. So is English. I've no idea why I resisted the language so long." "Too busy making movies to pick up a language in your spare time, I imagine." He nodded seriously. "I have been busy of late." He sighed, his eyes once more glancing to the door seperating them from Brad. "Though that is all past now, I fear." _________________________________________________________________________ Post 632: Sting The limos had been a nice touch, and entirely in keeping with Tom's image. Still, it was silly to refuse a little luxury when it was offered and Sting had approved of it. And it was certainly understandable when they had arrived in the Garden District and the house where half of the 'party' seemed to be gathered. A small fleet of limos was going to be the only choice if there were to be this many people. Tom had, thankfully, dissappeared the moment they arrived into another room with a rather harried looking Brad Pitt. Sting rather pitied the man, having already been subject to about as much of Tom Cruise's attitude as he could take in the short conversation at the hotel. However, it left him and George at rather loose ends, standing about in a crowded room of primarily unfamiliar faces. The first two things to meet his eyes when he had stepped in were two women, both positively striking. A petite little pale blonde and an equally pale exotic looking brunette, whom he did not recognize at all. Part of the mysterious 'consultants'? Quite possible. And with them were the more recongnizeable faces of Christian Slater, looking a little bemused, and Antonio Banderas, who looked unhealthily pale and upset. The blonde had gone over to talk to him, their heads bent and voices hushed. Well, he might as well get his feet wet. With a smile to Christian Slater and a small grin to George, he made his way over to the stunning brunette. There was something about her... about both of the women, now that he thought of it. It made him stop a few paces from her, at a polite distance, with an equally polite smile and small bow. He couldn't really take his eyes from her face. "Hello," he said pleasantly. "Forgive my presumption, Miss, but are you, perhaps, one of the consultants Mr. Cruise mentioned?" _________________________________________________________________________ Post 633: Pandora Pandora watch Gabrielle go over to console her fledgling son as his beloved Brad went off with that besotted pint-sized Lestat clone. It would be so nice if Brad could fall for Antonio, but the way things were going, Antonio was not making much headway against the hold Tom had on Brad. Pandora seriously considered for a moment, making all Tom's hair fall out. But then she decided against it. Brad would just take pity on him and lavish more attention and affection on the little cretin. She could always fix it so that he would never be able to get another erection - but from what she could pick up, he was also very good with his mouth and hands, which made the whole idea entirely too much trouble. While she pondered the problem of what to do to Tom that wouldn't upset Brad too much or cause him to drown the creature in sympathy and warm affection, one of the human herd of actors peeled off the group and made his way determinedly toward her. She took a quick scan: A deep wellspring of calm was in him, the result of his yoga...very intelligent...musician - even here, his mind was alive and partially absorbed with his art...Marius. This one was to be Marius. Pandora watched him come to her, his eyes fixed on her face. Oh yes, she could see it very well. From what was in him, he would make a fine Marius. Better than the real thing, probably... He stopped a few paces from her, at a polite distance, with an equally polite smile and small bow. Still studying her, he spoke finally. "Hello," he said pleasantly. "Forgive my presumption, Miss, but are you, perhaps, one of the consultants Mr. Cruise mentioned?" Pandora felt her body language change instantly. Her stance loosened, became more relaxed. One of her hands moved around to rest lightly on the front of her thigh. Her shoulders rolled back unobtrusively, which motion caused her breasts, only marginally covered by the flimsy slip of a dress, to rise slightly. She smiled as his attention immediately transferred to that area from her face. "Why yes, I am," she murmured in her best husky and softly seductive voice. "I have always made my knowledge and...skills... available to any," Pandora trailed a long, blood red nail down the man's cheek "who could afford my fee." She smiled a small, secretive smile at him, the corners of her mouth barely rising. "I am also your hostess. We're going dancing this evening - if we can get Tom and Brad out of the study, that is!" _________________________________________________________________________ Post 634: Sting It took him perhaps a total of ten seconds before well trained manners came to his rescue and wrenched his eyes from her exposed cleavage back up to her face. She was smiling, and the muscles in his cheek where she had lightly touched him wanted to twitch spasmodically in answer to that touch. The look in those exotic dark eyes was a look that, to his mind, meant nothing but trouble. Her voice was a honey sweet purr that did wonderful things, but promised a hell of alot more and the promise was backed up in her gaze. Had Cruise meant 'consultant', or 'groupie'? He could give her the benefit of the doubt. Smiling, Sting captured the hand that was trailing that maddening fingernail along his cheek. It was surprisingly cool, and with a hardness to it that didn't match her otherwise lush looks. He kept his gaze locked to her, noting the slightly bemused quirk to her smile as he drew the hand away from his cheek and to his lips, dropping a perfectly gentlemanly kiss on the back of her pale knuckles before releasing it. "In that case, it is a true pleasure to make your aquaitance. Gordon Sumner at your service, Miss...?" He let his voice trail off, questioning, prompting. _________________________________________________________________________ Post 635: Christian Christain, without thinking, had answered the door to Tom, George Clooney and Sting. The doorbell rang, his mind so cluttered with the whirl- wind around him that he had not even stopped to think he was a guest himself. *That's it Chris, just match the stimuli to the correct action! Think! Why the hell can't I think straight! Must have hit my head during that fall...* He said only a few words to Tom before He was swept away by Brad into another room. What were all the secrets for? Tonio had been distant and hushed with Brad too. He wished he could talk with Brad or Antonio alone, so he could find out what was going on. Instead he was left in the hall standing with an actor, a singer and the two most exotic women he had ever laid eyes on. He was sure the red head was gorgeous too, but he couldn't get a good look with how fast she came and went. Still, he was nervous. He remember Brad's warning that while these were good people, it was wise to watch himself around them. If nothing was wrong, why had Brad needed to give him a warning? And why was Brad all of a sudden chummy with Tom? And Antonio, he looked so pale and ill! He was certainly very close with the blonde. So many questions that couldn't be answered while the crowd was gathered. It didn't look like he'd have quiet time to get his answers; it was declared that they all would be going out to a destination not yet named. He looked over to watch the one Brad called Pan talking to Sting. Those were two people he definately wanted to meet. He decided to put his thoughts aside and join in on the goings on. They were having a rather "heated" conversation, so he turned his attention to George. "Hi George, mind if I call you that? I'm Chris, but you already knew that...being introduced already and all. It's kind of a mad house here, so don't mind me if I seem like I'm being redundant. I'm still getting over the shock that I landed here totally by accident. So, how are you?" _________________________________________________________________________ Post 636: George George laughed, taking the other actor's hand and shaking it. "I'm doing great. I feel like I could use a stiff drink, but great." "Watch it," Chris grinned, very Daniel-like, "you're on a vampire movie and around here a 'stiff drink' doesn't mean what you want it to." Another bark of laughter escaped him. "Yeah, Quentin said you were great to work with. Good to see he wasn't lying." He put his arm companionably around Chris. "So now what? Are we going dancing or are those 'consultants' already here?" _________________________________________________________________________ Post 637: Christian Chris rubbed his hands together, shaking his head up and down. "Yeah, yeah....That's what I hear, but where ever it is we're going it's some kind of big mystery." He changed the subject, not wanting to think about all the mysteries he had encountered already tonight. "So, what d'ya think of Quentin, he's a real madman, ain't he? You gotta love the guy! Had me over his house to play Happy Days: The Board Game one night. He gets real giddy when when you get the "Fonzie tells you to 'sit on it' card. I never had so much fun on a movie set in all my life! That's where I met Brad." "Yeah, I know. He had one of those pivital roles." George flashed one of his famous smirks. "Hey, I happened to try out for the role of Floyd." He stopped for a moment then shook his head. "Yeah, I'm pretty sure it was Floyd, could have been the drug dealer with the dredds that Gary ended up playing though. But Quentin asked me if I ever talked to Elvis and when I said 'Yeah, who doesn't?' he gave me the lead." _________________________________________________________________________ Post 638: George "I know," George said. "I met Quentin back on the set of ER and as soon as he found out I was the one who replaced the prop baby with a rubber alien one in 'Love's Labor Lost', he said he had to have me for Dusk 'Til Dawn. The entire cast of which he--" George nodded in the direction Antonio had gone "should be familiar with since we had everyone *except* him. Mind you," George added with a conspiratorial grin, "I don't know if any of our vampires were as good looking as our lady friends here. Any of them going to be in the movie?" _________________________________________________________________________ Post 639: Brad "Hey Dad! What's up?" He turned and grinned at Tom, still holding his hand as he settled against the edge of the desk. "No, I'm fine. Everything's cool. Just wanted to say "Hi" to the home folks! "I miss you guy's somethin' awful!" Brad knew he was smiling like an idiot. His family meant the world to him, and it always did him good to talk to them when he was rattled. "Yeah Dad, I hear her. Put her on." Brad laughed as his mother's voice came over the phone. "Hello, mother dear. Yes, I'm *fine*. As a matter of fact I'm very fine..." Brad grinned at Tom and squeezed his hand. "Yes, I'm taking care of myself. Yes, I'm eating... am so! I can prove it. Tom's been making me... What do you mean, "Tom who?" *My* Tom! You know, "Hollywood's Brat Pr..." Yeah, that one. I do so like him. Yes, *mother*, I know what I said the last time - but things are different now..." Brad fixed Tom with a unreadable look. "He's been looking out for me, including seeing that I eat. "No, I'm not kidding! Tom, tell her!" Brad stuck out the handset at waved it at Tom. Tom looked momentarily panic stricken, but he recovered quickly, and took the phone. "Hello?" Brad chuckled, and Tom glared at him. "Yes Ma'am...yes, actually I have been looking out... Yes he has been eating, I've been making sure... Yes he does forget..." Tom stopped, and looked at Brad. "Excuse me, Ma'am... Brad, have you eaten yet today?" Tom gave Brad the Evil Eye. Brad shook his head no, and Tom sighed. "No Ma'am he hasn't. Yes, I'll see to it. We're about to go to a cast party of sorts, and I'll make sure he eats while we're there. No Ma'am, he's not too thin. He's perfect." Tom went incredibly still. Brad could hear that there was no sound coming from the other end of the line. "Hello?" Tom said into the receiver. He turned a wide-eyed look at Brad. Brad started gesturing for the phone. "Yes," Tom said hurriedly. "this *is* a change from the last film..." Brad jumped him and wrestled the phone away, before Tom could say any more. "Mom? It's me. Don't start giving Tom the third degree, okay? Please?" Brad sighed heavily as he listed to his mother. "Okay, I'm sorry. I know you're just concerned..." Brad held the phone away from him and scowled at it. "She want's to talk to you again!" Tom gingerly took the phone. "Ma'am?" "Yes. Yes, I will. I'll take very, very good care of him." "MOM!" Brad shouted, trying to be heard through the receiver. "She said to stop that shouting right now, William Bradley!" Tom grinned at him, and as he sputtered, the grin on Tom's face sort of crumbled and slid away. "Yes, Ma'am, that's true. I was nasty to him on the last one, but this one's a bit differ..." Brad watched in horror as Tom turned bright red and looked as if he would faint. "Yes, Ma'am. I will," Tom choked out. "Yes, I'll make sure he calls you... Goodbye!" Tom dropped the phone onto the cradle as if it were going to bite him any second. "What? WHAT?" Brad pressed, anxious to know what had caused the fire engine red color that was only just now fading from Tom's face. "I gotta sit down!" Tom gasped. "WHAT!" Brad yelled. "She said she read TVL, that she read *all* the books..." "Yeah, she's the one who made me read them after the first film. She said I wasn't getting the full picture..." "Yeah well, I think she's got the full picture," Tom sagged in a chair looking nerveless. "What do you mean?" Brad asked anxiously. "She said she knew "there was method in my madness", and hoped that it was *just* method and no madness was involved..." "Uh oh." Brad looked down at Tom who was holding his head in his hands. "Is your whole family going to be on the next plane down here now, or what?" Brad laughed and fell to his knees next to Tom's chair. He gathered him up and hugged him. "Don't sweat it, Thomas. Mom's just making sure you know she'll kill you if you hurt me!" Brad grinned at him and kissed him till the worried look disappeared. "Don't start that again," Tom muttered, getting up from his chair and pulling Brad to his feet. "I don't think I could survive another phone call to your family, just now!" Brad laughed as Tom pull him toward the door. "Just wait till you talk to my sister!" _________________________________________________________________________ Post 640: Tom Instead of open the door Tom suddenly slumped against it. "What is it?" Instantly concerned, Brad took him in his arms once more. Tom allowed himself the luxury. Being held now was almost a sin, it felt so good. "My family. I had one... once. Children. A wife." He traied off, then glanced up, his expression ironic. "She's divorcing me." Brad blinked slowly, but there was no surprise in his expression. "How are you?" That simple question nearly melted him. "I'm with you. I've been far worse." Looking into his lover's eyes, Tom drew Brad's hand up, kissing the back of it. "I'll handle Nicole. I just wanted you to hear it from me." Brad nodded. "Thanks. And Thomas?" He waited until he was sure he had Tom's undivided attention. "I'm right here. I'm here for you." Tom's expression became a little dreamy. He shook his head, leaning harder against the door. "No one's ever "There for me", Brad. I... " he trailed off, swallowing. Somehow he couldn't just blurt it out. Not yet. It was still too new. He dodged, standing straight again and releasing his hand. "Are you ready?" Suddenly nervous, not waiting for an answer, Tom turned and opened the door. "If we're going, we may as well go." He looked around at the hallway full of milling people. "Are you still on speaking terms with Pandora? Why don't you ask her where we're going?" _________________________________________________________________________ Post 641: Pandora Pandora suppressed a smile as the man captured her hand, drew it away from his face and brought it to his lips, dropping a perfect gentlemanly kiss on the back of her pale knuckles before releasing it. "In that case," he said in response to her announcing that she was his host, "it is a true pleasure to make your acquaintance. Gordon Sumner at your service, Miss...?" He let his voice trail off, questioning, prompting. "Some called me Pandy, though I have always preferred Pan. I feel it fitting somehow that I should be called after that happy, wicked satyr." She curled her fingers around the hand that had so recently held her own and stepped away, pulling him after her as she went to great her other guests. "Welcome to my home, gentlemen," Pandora smiled at them. "As I've told this wonderful man," she draped her arm around Gordon's shoulder, being sure her body touched him at breast, hip and thigh, "I am called Pan." She dropped her arm from the "Marius'" shoulder, and took up the dark haired one's hands. Santino, he was to be - and a fine one he would make. He had the wit for it, it would seem. She stepped in close to kiss his cheek, pressing the backs of his hands against the underside of her breasts as she did so. "Santino has a good representative in you, I think..." she murmured before moving to the young one, who stared at her open mouthed. She put a long, scarlet tipped finger under his chin and tilted his face up. "And you - you get a special welcome for bringing Danny home safely." She pressed her lips against his and kissed him until a soft, shuddery moan escaped him. Satisfied, she broke the kiss and turned a sultry smile on the three mortal men. "I must say that I am pleased to have your company for the evening. I have a great appreciation for beauty, and now I am surrounded by it! Her head tilted slightly in response to the faint sound of the door to the study opening. "Ah, but I'm afraid you're all about to be eclipsed... Brad is joining us at last!" _________________________________________________________________________ Post 642: Brad Brad put his hand on the door and pushed it so that it was nearly closed, effectively blocking them from sight. He couldn't let Tom go while he was so upset. Tom could pretend all he wanted, but that didn't mean he had to go along with it. He pulled Tom back into his arms and kissed him gently, smoothing his hair back into place and adjusting the perfect fit of his exquisitely tailored clothes. "I *am* here for you. Whenever you need me, whenever you want me - I'm yours..." Brad trailed off at the look in Tom's eyes as he spoke. That look threatened to derail Pandora's plans for the entire evening. Brad kissed him once more, a quick hard pressing together of their lips. "Okay, let's get this show on the road. We've got a hall full of people to attend to!" Brad turned Tom around and pulled open the door. With a gentle shove, Brad propelled Tom out into the gathering. Pandora was surrounded by the mortals, working her charms on them. Brad's smiled at them as they all turned to look at him. With his hand still lightly pressing the small of Tom's back Brad steered them toward the group. "Hi, I'm Brad." He extended his hand toward Sting. "I'm a fan, Sting," he grinned at the man. "Please, call me Gordon. I much prefer it." The famous voice made him smile with delight. "Gordon it is." Brad nodded, then turned toward the other newcomer. "You're George Clooney. I've seen your mug plastered all over. Good to meet you." He shook George's hand and turned to Pandora. "So, my Lady, where are we off too?" _________________________________________________________________________ Post 643: Daniel The house was hopping with visitors, it was going to be impossible to find a room to themselves downstairs. It didn't matter, they had no problem with being a spectical. Jesse and Daniel plopped themselves down in the middle of the parlour floor and he began to brush her hair. It was so soft and smooth, Daniel wished he could see the color. "I can't believe you were going to cut this!" "Argh! It's a rat's nest today! I can't do anything with it!" "Looks beautiful to me." He whispered in her ear and then planted his face in her red mane, taking in the scent of it. "Thank you, Daniel." "Now, if you want to hear about a rat's nest there's a former starlite named Bubble I can tell you about." Daniel laughed, then shuddered at the memory. Jesse hesitated for a moment. "No...no, Daniel, I don't think I want to hear about that one." Daniel shrugged. "It's probably better that way." He continued to brush her hair, making sure each stroke was soft and even. Not a hair out of place. He broke into a rhythm, and he could hear Jesse faintly moan under her breath. _________________________________________________________________________ Post 644: Christian Christain shook his head. "I dunno George. I haven't a clue in whose been casted in the movie. I didn't even know you or Sting would be in it till now. Hell, I only found out a few nights ago that they would need me." He laughed and shook his head again. "Daniel's not even suppose to be in it according to the book. I haven't the faintest clue how they're going to work me in. Maybe have me do another inter--" Chris lost his words as Pandora took the center stage. She was speaking to Sting and George, telling them of how well they would play their counter- parts. And then! She leaned close to Chris "And you get a special thanks for bringing Danny home safely." Her lips closed on his and Chris felt a shockwave travel through his body. Never had he felt so much pleasure from a single kiss. Lost in it, he had forgotten that he was in a crowded house. A moan escaped from his mouth as she backed away, grinning at him and the others as she announced the arrival of some other, whose name had not registered in his melted brain. Stayr, no, she was a siren, and he would gladly leave his ship to spend eternity with her. A foriegn, uninvited voice cut into his thoughts. "So, my Lady, where are we off too?" Chris looked blankly at Brad. Where were they going? Pan had spoken about an eclipse, were they going to watch one? _________________________________________________________________________ Post 645: Jesse Danny stood up and gazed down at Jesse. She lifted her face and smiled. What a picture she made! Her long hair curling over her shoulders and down her bare back. The touch of her hair and skin against his hand had sent shock waves through him... and she thought she was on the "stimulated" end of the hairbrushing! He held out his hands to her and pulled her to her feet. "Better get up before neither of us want to..." He winked at her. Jesse slipped her hands under the leather vest and around his back. "Will you always do that... brush my hair?" She lightly kissed his chin. "Try and stop me." He replied. "So... I thought there was a party?" Jesse looked around. "Cheese and crackers, Danny! Look at all the Hollywood types!" "Hmm." He bent over and whispered into her ear. "Is it a buffet?" Jesse swatted him and suppressed a giggle. "Look! There's the guy that played you in the movie!" "Come on" Daniel grabbed her by the hand and dragged her across the room where Chris stood gaping at Pan. Daniel grabbed Chris' hand and pumped it. "How ya doin', man. Thanks for getting me home..." "Uhhhh..." Chris looked from Pandora's eyes and ample cleavage, to Daniel and the stunning redhead at his side. "Don't mention it. I guess I owe you that truck!" He smiled to Jesse. She was clinging on Daniel's arm. "Yeah... it's for my lady... Jesse, this is Chris Slater." He took her offered hand. "Hi, I hope his eyes are better..." "Oh, they are..." Danny smiled. "She gave me my medicine." "Have you met everybody?" Jesse asked. _________________________________________________________________________ Post 646:Pandora "So, my Lady, where are we off too?" Brad was asking her from behind the wary personage of his Thomas. 'Tom, just Tom - not *his* Tom,' she reminded herself sternly. She knew she was going to blow that before the night was done! Before she could answer, they were descended upon. Pandora chuckled with amusement as Jesse and Daniel burst upon them with their typical exuberance. She smiled as Brad turned a laughing gaze on the pair. Anything that made him happy this evening would be fine with her! She let her own gaze travel over to a not so happy young man. Poor Antonio! Perhaps this attention from Gabrielle would serve to lighten his mood a bit as well. All this melancholy and upset was not good for the young ones! Both she and Gabrielle, brought over for vastly different reasons still had in common the joy, the happiness at being alive still, and being in the company of one who loved them. Gabrielle had basked in her son's love, and she... Her eyes moved, involuntarily, to the one who would portray *him* on the movie screen. He was watching her, coolly. Pandora smiled at him, equally cool. 'Don't play games with me, mortal," she let her eyes speak to him. 'You'll loose.' She relented as the mortal blanched under her gaze. He was not at fault here. He was *not* Marius. It was best not to let herself forget that, else this fragile piece of flesh and...blood...before her would suffer for it. She reached out and drew the man to her, tucking her arm through his, and smiled softly. His unease vanished as she winked at him. "Have you met everybody?" Pandora heard Jesse ask the adorable little one who was Daniel's counterpart. "Everybody... trust me, he's met *everybody*" she cooed, tapping the boy's cheek affectionately. He really was too adorable! "Oh, Good..." Jesse nodded. "So Pan, is the party at your place?" "You have a club?" Christian asked her, all delicious innocence. "The gathering will be at a little place I own," Pandora murmured modestly. She looked at the "Santino" and then at Brad, encompassing them all in her smile. "Does she have a club!" Jesse laughed. Suddenly remembering her fangs, she clapped her hand over her mouth - a bit late, Pandora thought. "Pan owns "The Box". It's the hottest place in New Orleans!" Pandora laughed at Jesse's enthusiasm, and at Brad's startled exclamation. "The *Box*?!! You never said... They wouldn't even let me in the place the last time I came here!" "Well, you weren't "The Sexiest Man Alive" then either, my dear," Pandora grinned at him. "Rest assured you will now and forever after be allowed admittance. I'm the boss, and *I* make all the rules!" "Why don't we go?" Daniel suggested, impatient to be off. "Chris, why don't you come with us..." "Yeah." Jesse giggled. She kissed Danny again. "He can drive and I can sit on your lap!" "You younglings go on ahead, make sure the place is lively by the time we get there. But please, don't destroy the place - or damage any of the help!" She got no response to that as they scooped the young mortal up and made for the door. Ah well, Daniel had enough money to pay for anything he might damage and Jesse had Maharet's bottomless resources to draw upon should they burn the place down. Pandora was a practical woman by nature, and already keeping a running tab on the damage Daniel was doing to her house. He *would* be getting a bill. She had no qualms whatsoever about making him pay for his own carelessness - upset or no. The young ones had to learn some kind of thrift from *someone*! She thought fondly of her many numbered Swiss accounts and the vast amount of property she owned. A girl - even a Kumquat - had to look after her own interests, after all! _________________________________________________________________________ Post 647: Pandora The children left the door wide open, as children were wont to do, and Pandora laughed as she heard the horrible vehicle they were all so enamored of go roaring off into the night. "Well, gentlemen, it appears we are being left behind! I don't like being left behind...shall we?" She turned, keeping her arm firmly tucked in Gordon's and slipped her other one through...she asked Brad, ::What *is* his name?:: ::George, Pandora. George Clooney. He's kinda *hot* right now, so try to remember his name...:: Brad labored to "transmit" his thoughts to her. ::Easy, child, I can hear you quite well. No need to strain. And, I must say I agree with you, he is quite, *hot*!:: ::That's not what I meant, Pan. I meant...:: Pandora was no longer listening to Brad. She was busy trying to decide whether she wanted to nibble on these two once she got them into the limo. ::Save it for later, dear. They won't last the evening if you start now...:: Pandora tossed a laughing glance over her shoulder at Gabrielle. ::I suppose these are not "disposables" since they're part of Lestat's precious film!:: ::No, neither are disposable - both would be very much missed, the musical one in particular. He's quite good...he did that Bourbon Street song - you know the one.:: As they all moved toward the door Pandora looked at the man at her side with a bit more respect. She didn't know he was that one! She gently sifted through his thoughts, and to her surprise he stumbled a bit, growing slightly disoriented. He'd felt her in his mind! He hadn't known quite what it was, and passed it off to dizziness, but he'd *had* been reacting to her presence. She'd have to go a bit more carefully with this one... The artistic types were invariably sensitive. She looked at Brad then, and knew that he only reaffirmed that conclusion. He was adapting to their life too easily. She watched him as he went out at his lover's side, bending slightly to hear his softly murmured speech. He didn't even *move* like the mortals anymore, unconsciously picking up the slightly off kilter mannerisms of his vampire companions. He'd only been in their company a scant number of days, and already he was, aside from the occasional fright, quite at ease in their presence! Her thoughts drifted back to her own beginnings, how she had somehow always known what Marius was. Always. Never had she doubted her own mind. She had *known*. And she knew she'd been one of them before... She looked at Brad as Tom ushered him into a limousine, wondering if he had similar knowledge...then shook her head. No, he was simply a very sensitive and perceptive young man who picked up on things more easily than most! She'd been lightly monitoring him, and at no time had she felt in him that same *knowing* that she had experienced. A faint smile flickered across her lips as she heard the soft, almost soundless click of the locks to Brad's limo being activated. That was all well and good. Brad, for reasons she could not fathom, needed to be alone with that horrid young man of his for a bit. She waved Gabrielle and Antonio toward the limo at the end of the line. ::I'll take the mortals, Gabby...:: ::I'm sure you will, Pandora:: came the dry response, and Pandora grinned wolfishly behind their backs as the men "helped" her toward the waiting cars. ::Well, if I do, it will just be a sip...or two!:: Gabrielle laughed out loud as she climbed in the waiting vehicle, Antonio following closely behind. Pandora looked back over her shoulder and the door to the house swung slowly shut, and locked itself. The lights dimmed as she climbed into her own waiting limousine, taking just a moment to make sure her dress rode up in all the right places, as she settled in. Little details like that were so important if one was to have an enjoyable evening! _________________________________________________________________________ Post 648: Armand ::Armand? Are you and Marius free for some company?:: Somewhere just this side of paradise, Armand stirred in the arms of his husband. ::Good evening, Lestat. We're free, so long as company comes to us.:: He looked into Marius' eyes and smiled, nuzzling just a little closer into his arms. ::Would you care to join us?:: ::I would, and Louis too, if that is acceptable.:: :: You did not fight with him last night. I am glad. You are both welcome.:: Aloud, voice still a little husky, he said "Lestat and Louis wish to visit." Marius raised an eyebrow, taking in Armand's expression with a smile. "And you said...?" "They were welcome, so long as they came to us. I do not feel like moving just yet." Nodding in approval, Marius tightened his arms around Armand. "Well done." Then another thought occured to him. "Does this mean we must get dressed?" Armand considered. "I don't know. I'll ask." Grinning at the *Look* Marius gave him, he did just that. ::Lestat... Marius wishes to know if we must be dressed for this.:: _________________________________________________________________________ Post 649: Lestat ::Lestat... Marius wishes to know if we must be dressed for this.:: Lestat laughed, getting an odd look from Louis and Santino in the process. "They are willing to have company," he explained with a grin, "but I've been asked if they are required to be dressed for the occasion." Louis gave a properly polite look of outrage, but it was Santino who spoke. "Dressed? I was not aware that the party was formal." "Party?" Louis asked, looking from him to Lestat curiously. "Si, Young Tom said that there will be a party of some sort tonight with both of our kinds there." Santino glanced at Lestat. "I assume that is the 'occasion' you spoke of." Lestat frowned a little, thinking. "No, but it is an interesting idea." ::It will also give Louis a chance to see you with Tom.:: Santino added into his mind. ::The thought was not lost on me.:: Lestat replied, then turned his attention back to Armand. ::Brother? Are you aware of a party this evening? Given who will be there, I think that I might like to go.:: _________________________________________________________________________ Post 650: Marius Marius had stood quietly, arms wrapped around Armand, watching the small flickers of emotion cross his lover's face as thoughts passed silently and invisibly between himself and Lestat. The dark eyes were slightly unfocused and a smile hovered on his lips that made Marius desperately want to lean down and kiss that mouth. He had restrained himself, waiting quietly to find out what was spoken of. And then one fine auburn brow had quirked upwards, the eyes refocusing, and Armand had turned towards him with a look that was both inquisitive and hinted at an underlying and possibly explosive humor. "Marius," he said quietly, "did you know anything of a party? Lestat says there is to be one tonight, and he would like to go." Marius was startled. "Party? No, I didn't know anything about it." He sent out a thought, no more then a polite nudge, requesting attention. Lestat's touch was immediate and warm. ::Good evening, mon pere. Have you decided to get dressed?:: Marius almost laughed aloud. ::Good evening yourself, young one. It's good to hear you in such humor. Now, what is this about a party? What ARE you dragging us into?::