[ORP] The Invitation. (Clan Giovanni April 4th Dinner)

[Ruriska]

If Thane could have read Amadeo’s thoughts, he would have been quite disappointed to know his Sire thought him deliberately late to the party. More than most, Thane knew just how important this gathering was and how important it was for his role as an elder and Amadeo’s first Childe to be played appropriately. He was certainly not going to shame him, even if such a huge party filled with conniving Giovanni wasn’t really his thing. Yes, he would have preferred to be in his rooms, studying, writing, daydreaming. But he’d been taught well how to play his part and he would do so without failure.

Which was why he’d been lurking the entrance and outskirts, dressed in his golden shirt, hair cut short, as stylish as any of the Giovanni clan. Counting clan members, putting faces to names and ensuring nobody unsavoury crossed the threshold. All seemed well enough, so much so that he could no longer delay his walk inside, into the throng, nodding politely to the faces that he passed, passing through the room and looking deliberately up to the railing where Amadeo stood. He bowed to his sire above, low at the waist and then moved on, to wait at the bottom of the stairs, ready to take his place Amadeo’s shoulder when the older vampire chose to descend.  

[Seussi]

Though Nico knew he had to be at the family gathering that night, the reluctant heir of Puttanesca had mixed feelings about the whole affair. For starters, when it came to anything his father insisted he do, there was always an immediate desire to balk and tell him exactly where to shove it. For another, he disliked being anywhere near the other families, always acutely aware of their judging gazes or the way they clutched their purses a little tighter in the presence of the ‘******** Puttanesca’. But then again…on that second point, he could hardly blame them. He knew at least a couple of his sisters would be more than willing to make a few purses and wallets a little lighter, even if he had told them to try and be on their best behaviour tonight.

Try being the operative word. He never outright demanded anything of them. If he was being honest with himself, it was partially out of love but also because the nine of them were a force unto themselves and upsetting one meant potentially facing the wrath of them all.

No, thank you.

But at least he got to be here with Matteo on his arm, the blonde like a guiding ray of light to pull Nico out of quiet, brooding thoughts. The dark-haired vampire was dressed in one of his best suits, though he had few to choose from in that regard. His style, while never quite casual, often had to be functional. Even now, when he should have been able to let his guard down, he knew better. There were always certain items concealed on his person that would be used when and if necessary, and being around family never meant one was safe.

He would actually argue that it was quite the opposite among this particular one.

Nico felt the shift beside him and could feel a warm gaze turned up toward him before he even glanced over at his companion for the evening. An ice-blue gaze met honey brown, and Nico could feel some of his tensions ease, though not all. Still, he smiled back at the other, his lips pulling up into a slight smirk when he saw the look Matteo was giving him. Leaning down, he placed a soft kiss on the edge of the other vampire's mouth and turned his face toward his ear, whispering to him with hushed amusement.

“If you keep looking at me like that, we aren’t going to make it to the dinner.”

He pulled away again with a chuckle and let his gaze sweep around now, fully taking in the estate as they approached and those who had arrived at roughly the same time as them. Matteo was right. There didn’t seem to be many, though he supposed some could have been out walking around the outside of the estate and just had not made their way indoors yet. He was sure some would arrive “late” for dramatic effect. But, for all of Nico’s overall displeasure at having been harangued into coming by his father, he was still curious. There would be powerful family members here tonight. The oldest ones. Some he had never met before, several that he’d only ever heard of through stories his father had told him when Nico was younger and more impressionable. They would all be here because Augustus had awakened, and something about knowing that sent a cold chill down his spine.
“No, but there will be.” He said, frowning slightly.

yayoi

 

[Yayoi]

Nico had been distracted the moment they had set food on the estate grounds. But Matteo had gotten used to this little quirk of the other vampire’s. It came from his work and sometimes he just couldn’t switch it off. But at least someone was paying attention to their surroundings; the blonde would much rather just ignore it all abs focus his time and attention on Nico.

But they probably wouldn’t happen much tonight. He was sure eventually he would get cornered into a conversation about the Della Passaglia business ventures and people wanting to talk about his father. The man had been gone a long time and rarely checked in on him and Coco. Gigi kept him constantly busy. He reasallllyyy didn’t want to be here. But having Nico by his side made it at least tolerable. Maybe they could find some private place to sneak off to later or even just leave for some place else. Who knew how long this whole thing was going to take.

As they walked along the path to the mansion Matteo laughed. Leaning his head against Nico’s shoulder as he looked up at him through thick eyelashes. “Look at you like how?” The blond bit his bottom lip at the other vampire’s smirk. He knew exactly what Nico meant, it was just more fun to feign ignorance sometimes in an attempt to be cute. Leaning up he brushed his lips lightly against Nico’s cheek bone.

Nico’s words sounded ominous. It seemed he wasn’t at all thrilled with being here either. Good, that would make it easier to convince him later about finding some place else to be. Not that Nico would probably need that much convincing her was sure. Matteo nodded as he continued to cling to the other’s arm. Not willing to let him wander off. “But of course. It’s a big night tonight. They all just have to be dramatic. If that wasn’t the pot calling the kettle black. Matteo wasn’t as dramatic as some but he had his moments.

The kiss had left him wanting more but this wasn’t the time or place for that. Gigi would probably have a fit if she saw him with Nico, being on his arm, kissing him. Good, let her get upset.

Seussi

 

[Uta]

Vespara was only too happy to cuddle into Regulus' arms. She was glad that her father hadn't completely ruined things, especially on such an auspicious and important day. Though he wasn't Clan, she had wanted him here, and despite the trainwreck with Vinny's line of questioning, she couldn't regret inviting him. Too soon or not, he was here, and she was determined to make a nice night out of it.

She could laugh about it later. Much, much, much later.

Heaving a sigh, she let herself relax fully, taking comfort in Regulus hold. She didn't really want to go out and start socializing. As a neonate, she was still quite under the thumb of the ancilla and elders, and was only lately starting to study under Nonna. That said, she knew she would be expected to be on the floor, especially as a member of the main family.

But a few minutes away wouldn't be an issue, especially with so many members still making their way in. "I have no intention of that, carino," she assured, finally peeking up at him, to flash him a smile. "... my fathers on the other hand..." She crinkled her nose, before shaking her head.

"Grazie," she thanked him, grateful for his patience. Deciding it was best to let everything go, and move on, she stood on her tip-toes, and reached up to pull his him down for a light kiss. She let her claws run through his hair, and down his neck, before she smiled. ".... a model, huh? I'm not surprised in the least, signore fashionista." She was teasing, of course -- she appreciated his style, and his interest in clothing, bands, and great music. Vespara was impressed, even if her father was less so.


Eloisa lifted her glass, giving him a little silent cheer, before taking a long sip of her drink. Her bright, blue eyes never left his though, even as she set down her drink and let her long nails tap delicately at the glass. She knew this night was important, with Augustus' return, and of course, what the party represented... but that was the last thing on her mind. "Then between the two of us, we can be the envy of all," she mused, more than happy with the thought. And why shouldn't they be?

They could all eat their hearts out.

Eloisa liked Romeo for who he was, or at least, the parts of him that he'd shared with her. They were still strangers, but she was eager to spend more time with him. Very eager. Eloisa was certainly a romantic at heart, though her views had been tempered with time -- she had thought the most one might expect would be opening the door for her, and a buss on the hand or a few flowers would be the pinnacle. Admittedly, that would have been enough for Eloisa, who just wanted a little attention and time... but Romeo went above and beyond her expectations or hopes.

He really was a dream come true.

"That would be nice," she confessed with a little smile. "I've a few things in mind I think you might like very much." Her words were low, meant only for him. If he wanted a little Eloisa trouble, she would be happy to give him a sample... It was an auspicious night, after all. "A little something to look forward to after all your business is settled," she added, before taking another sip of her drink.

Yayoi

 

[Kiara Lime]

Gigi was a bit late with invitation in hand. Walking inside, he nodded to those he knew and respected, yet kept his eyes low, to those that didn't like him as he hastily made his way to one of the walls, mainly to observe, hoping his Boss, Vinny, was having a good time.

He was so busy lately with paperwork lately, getting those last financial tweaks done before the season switched over. Usually he stayed in his work space, unless Vinny had him go elsewhere and this was one of those times. Respecting his friend he was here, though deep down he felt a bit uncomfortable, being Mortal and being around so many intimidating and powerful and Important Family members. The crowd didn't help either.  

[Yayoi]

“We can worry about your fathers later, Vespara.” Sure the first meeting had been a bit rough, Regulus had been on edge with the thought of meeting them and the way Claudius spoke to him, well, that was probably something he would have to get used to if they decided to go long term.

He gave her a slightly embarrassed grin as he looked down at her. She was gorgeous all done up for this party. He had been so wrapped up in meeting her fathers that he didn’t really have any time to appreciate the effort she went through ro look nice for him. “Yes we’ll, it pays the bills at least. It’s a wonder what hair and makeup can do though.” Half the time he had a wig on and gobs I’d makeup. It was annoying but he knew where his talents lie. He could have been a fighter on the Brujah underground but he liked not firing or having broken bones. Being a model was a lot less confrontational.

He leaned down to capture her lips for just a brief moment of affection. A hand coming up to cup her face, his thumb running over her cheekbone as he pulled away just slightly. “To answer your father’s question I have no plans of going anywhere anytime soon.” Regilus smiled warmly as her. She seemed convinced that one little thing might drive him away and he wanted to reassure her that that would not be the case. Even if he never got along with Claudius.

———

Romeo laughed, reaching over to play with one of her loose curls before turning it behind her ear. “Alright then. We’ll both be the envy of the party. Just to be fair.” He was still convinced that he would most certainly be the envy of many walking around with such a lovely woman on his arm. He could just imagine it and it made him smile. Romeo was rather humble in a sense but if he could make others jealous we’ll, it gave him a little bit of a thrill to know he had something that others coveted. He would have to be careful to deter and upstart that thought they could weasel their way in.

But forget the party and the jealous looks. Eloisa was all that occupied his mind. She was one of his biggest distractions which Edon had probably already noticed. He was keen about these things even though Romeo thought he had his it well enough from Edon. Unsure of how his Unfle would react. It was a toss up with the elder vampire sometimes. The family had wanted him to find someone and sooner rather than later, he had waffles about for centuries completly avoiding the subject but he was being pushed hard recently

Romeo lifted his eyebrows, curious as to what she had in mind. What things she had that might interest him. He t could be any number of things and he took another sip of his drink before a smile tugged after his lips. “Sounds like a good time. And I eagerly await the end of this night.” His hand covered her’s, giving it a small squeeze.

Uta

 

[Seussi]

The head of house Rossellini wasn’t exactly late, per se, nor had he shown up as early as some. He’d been busy in his work, distracted and lavishing in his early evening pleasures before remembering that he had other places he was meant to be. Perhaps if his dear cousin had come and reminded him, he might have realized sooner, but alas, Armando never seemed to want to come and visit Marcello when he was in his ‘office’, and certainly not when the desperate sounds of screams from some poor mortal were echoing down the corridors.


Cleaning himself up had been a bit of an affair. Sometimes scrubbing the blood out of his cuticles could be such a chore. But eventually, he was ready, hair falling in touseled waves around his shoulders, his outfit an expensive black suit with gold accents, his selected jewelry polished and gleaming bright, and the elder arrived at the main family estate in good spirits, a slight smile adorning his lips and his amber gaze, often so cold and disdainful, bright and observant. Long, purposeful strides took him across the estate grounds, sweeping past the lollygaggers, who were taking their time in their approach, until he was through the doors and inside.


Now, where were the other members of his little family? He would not be terribly surprised if there were only a few. Not all had made their way home again since hearing of a certain Disciples return. He had sent out messengers, of course, and he was sure they would respond in due time. However, for now, it may just be---


Ah, there was Armando. A glimpse of his tall cousin with his brightly-hued hair had Marcello pivoting in place and heading his way. He was at the bar, of course, and the elder figured he might as well join him, approaching him with a reproachful look in his eyes and a small shake of his head, “Not wasting any time, I see.” His voice was low and smooth as his hand reached for the glass meant for Armando, lifting it to his own lips.


He had not, at that moment, yet noticed Angel.

Kinu

yayoi

 

[Yayoi]

Angel, had in fact, noticed Marcello as he strode through the doors of the mansion. It was hard not to. After all they had spent a long time together as well often long times apart. This last century had been spent apart after a particularly nasty fight. Well, all their fights could get heated that was for sure. Angel’s Spanish blood could burn hot and heavy when he was worked up and that tongue could deal out punishments that would make any abuelita gasp in horror. But his tongue was good for other things too.

He watched at Marcello pivoted and headed for the bar, his gaze trailing ahead to his destination and wouldn’t you know it Armando was here. When did the tall drink of water wander past him. Angel must have been loosing his touch.

Well it had been over a century.

He had promised himself this last time that he was eone with Marcello. A selfish pompous a**…..but on the other hand he had his charms too. Maybe things most people wouldn’t find charming but Angel was not most people. For Dioses sake what Angel got up to was not for those with weak stomachs. It was a miracle he hadn’t just shown up blood stained and covered in viscera. But tonight was important in more ways than one. And while his house may not have been prestigious and high up as the others he was at least here.

Angel made his way to the bar. Stepping up to it a few pages away from where the other Elder and his cousin stood. “Tequila, mi amigo.” As he waited for his drink pale eyes trailed over to Marcello then Armando. “Well , if it isn’t el caballito. My how you’ve grown.” His pale gaze swept over Armando with a look of appreciation before they wandered back to Marcello. A wry smile on his lips. “ Hola guapa.” His drink arrived and he knocked the shot back, settling the shot glass back onto the bar with a harsh clink. “Well. Nos vemos caballito.” He shot Marcello a charming, fanged grin before he let out a boisterous laugh and began to walk away.

Seussi

Kinu

 

[Livarian]

Zeno did his best to slip into the gathering unnoticed, knowing that it was very likely he would get scolded for showing up late. Not that it was really his fault. He had a few last minute issues that needed to be dealt with promptly, as he was quite sure no one would want to bring bad news to their disciple. So far he had been successful in sneaking into the main house, but he was sure several eyes landed on him as he slipped into the main room. He kept his shoulders hunched, and his hands tucked away in his pockets as he scanned the room. These kind of fancy parties where never something he liked, and he often left feeling out of place even among his cousins. It was clear to anyone looking at him the Zeno was not exactly the most pleasant to be around, and while he had put extra effort into making sure he was not covered in blood, there was little he could do for his scars.  

[Uta]

Regulus was right.

They could worry about them later-- even with that awkward first meeting. Next time, assuming there was a next time, she'd try to keep Vinny on task...or at least be better prepared that he was more than capable of asking the hard questions. "Let's just forget about it," she stated with a warmer smile, more than happy to let her thoughts focus on what she had in the moment. "We won't be able to really get away until after dinner," she explained, reaching over to entwine one of her hands within his own. "But then... the rest of the night should be ours to do what we please." Maybe they could find a quiet little spot, or she could take him back up to her room for a little privacy.

That would be nice.

Vespara was glad she knew about his job, though it wouldn't have bothered her at all if he'd done nothing. She still liked him for who he was, and it had nothing to do with his status, rank, wealth, or power. If she was worried about that, she would have been working this party years ago. Certainly, the Clan cared about those things, and in a way, Vespara knew she should as well. But she was ready to prove herself with her own claws, and didn't care as much about the background of any beau.

She liked Regulus for who he was, and every day, she wanted to know more. He was her friend, as much as he was her boyfriend -- they didn't have to worry about where they were going, or what this was about. There was no need to rush anything after all. "You're just full of surprise, aren't you? Well, I can't wait to see if I can spot you, bello," she mused, eyes twinkling with delight. He certainly was handsome enough to be one. "I'd think they wouldn't need to change a thing," she complimented, gazing up at him admiration...and perhaps a little lust. He was very attractive, after all, even among vampires. Of course, she understood how modeling worked, and there was hair, makeup, and all things that needed to match the magazine's vision and the idea of the piece and what they were selling or advertising. But she'd take a magazine of Regulus just as he was, thank you very much.

"Do you get to keep any of the clothing? Did you seek out the role, or did someone stop you in the streets, blinded by your attractiveness?" She mused, slipping an arm around his waist. There were more than a few chaises lounges surrounding them, and she had a half a mind to pull him down on one of them. But oh, that would be dangerously tempting...

Vespara leaned her head into his hand as he stroked her cheek. She turned her head slightly to offer his wrist a small kiss, and she couldn't help but give a happy purr at his words. It was very clear his answer delighted her, and was exactly what she'd wished for. "You know just the right things to say, don't you, carino? Well... I wouldn't let you go far. I quite like what we have, grazie, and I'd like to see where it might go."

----
His touch of her hair, no matter how small, felt nice, and she was tempted to lean into his touch, or at least lean closer. But this was one of those parties, and she had to be on her best behavior... She was in the presence of a Machiavelli, after all, and there were others of importance around. Besides which, Nico had wanted them to be on their best behavior, and for Eloisa, that was to nyx the gossip, and tone her voice down a few decibels. She wouldn't let him down...

At least right now, while it mattered.

Later that night, a little trouble wouldn't be amiss, provided her present companion was still game. And oh, how she couldn't wait. Usually, she enjoyed parties, and loved all that they provided.. but right now, she had little interest in gossip, and would much prefer to hurry through to the end of it. Still, she was with him, and she didn't desire to wish away a single moment. The thrill of his interest, the feel of his touch upon her hand... Everything was perfect.

"So tell me a bit more about yourself, bello. You like books, but struggle to choose a favorite; you seem to have traveled plenty, and I know must have ample stories to tell; you raise Faesteeds with your uncle, and have an illustrious ebony steed Echo; and you've the most stunning eyes I've had the pleasure of seeing. What else should I know? Are you all work and no play? Or does your business keep you occupied?" She was curious to know what he did, work wise, but she didn't need to pry.

...the family business was never quite what it seemed, at any rate. Even her own salon was just a front for more questionable things -- a little interrogation, a little laundering, a little accessory to crimes, a little body burying. Eloisa knew how to work hard, and while she certainly knew how to style hair, wax, and give a great mani-pedi, she still didn't know much about the Signore Machiavelli.

Yayoi

 

[Yayoi]

Regulus was glad that she seemed to want to drop the whole experience too. It was obviously uncomfortable for her and he didn’t want her feeling that way. Least of all while he was with her. He would try his very best to make sure tonight was a great night. After the little snaffu she deserve to have an anazing night. Her squeezed her hand lightly before bringing it to his lips and placing a kiss n her knuckles. His cyan gaze locking with her purple and gold. “Sounds like a plan. I’m game:” He didn’t know what ‘after dinner’ would all e take but he was curious to see what she had in mind.

He chuckled and gave her hand another kiss this time. It was quick and short but he smiled at her afterwards. “There are some with me without wits but usually they want to make you fit the theme of the photos they are taking.” He had modeled for years now, it was easy work if you didn’t mind the hours and hours spent getting fussed over and made up. Although he would fail to mention a few of the gigs he had taken which may have been a bit more risqué.

She really was interested wasn’t she? Well, he knew she had an interest in fashion so it really wasn’t that surprising. “Sometimes weLre allowed to.” Regulus could probably even pick up some stuff for Vespara. He’d have to keep an eye out for anything that she might like. And what he thought might look really good on her.

“I was actually offered the job on the street. I guess they really liked my look at the time. And that opened a lot of doors for me.” Regulus wrapped an arm around her shoulders, guiding her over to one of the large chaise’ he took a seat, waiting for her to join him. Once she did his hand would slip back into her’s. “Sometimes I do. Usually I just get lucky.” A serious look came over his face as he watched her intently. His tree hand covering hers. “I’d like to see where it goes too.”

—————

She just kept peeking his interest.

Normally at something like this he would be with Edon, handling business as usual. It was a never ending cavalcade of business deals. Even when he traveled there was always some business going on. But he always made time to relax and just enjoy where he was. Living in the moment.

What else about him? “Work does keep me rather busy I am afraid. Hopefully now that Edon has returned this will ease up just a bit.” If anything it would probably increase and he would find it harder to have much free time. “But don’t worry, bella . I will make sure to make time for you I promise.” When Romeo made promises he always kept them. No matter how arduous it would be to keep it. But this one would be any easy one. But he’s also make sure she knew he was thinking about her even when they were not able to see one another for a while. “Ah but that is a secret I am afraid I cannot divulge, Signora Eloisa.” It was frowned upon to talk about work with those outside the family. Even a non descript conversation could get a stare.

“More about me hmmm. Would you believe me when I say I was a privateer for several years? Ahhhh, there was nothing like the open ocean. Just water as far as the eye could see.” He of course worked the ship at night. “They say the open seas are a harsh mistress and it’s true. Being out there tested every man’s mettel

Being busy was the life of any Giovanni.

Uta

 

[Kinu]

Edon's smile did not falter as he watched Gigi's face, his expression one of warmth and complete focus upon the beauty at his side. Feeling her arm link with his as she took it he couldn't help the swell of immense pride, he didn't give a damn if people knew. In his opinion this should have been the way it was years ago. Fate had decided to give them a second chance, finally correcting an injustice. "Always, la mia rosa. If we Machiavelli aren't pouring charm from every conceivable pore of our being then somehow we are failing." He laughed quietly, flashing her a playful and slightly impish glance. He gracefully led them inside, his gaze slipping upward to spot the clans Methuselah perched, watchful as always.

He hadn't seen Amadeo in some time and the last time he had was when he had delivered Augustus's letter to the Elder and Edon had to set off on business at the Disciples request. He nodded briefly, receiving the same in return. His focus shifted back to Gigi who was pointing out family that had indeed been long absent from social functions and the ocassional house call or business meeting. The head of Hidalgo. The head of Rossellini. He tended to keep away from those houses for several reasons. None of which were petty or untrue. He had heard whispers of what went on behind closed doors at their hands or behest. It was nothing that concerned him and so long as it didn't affect him, his interests or his family he stayed out of the affairs of others.

"Quite the pageantry of Giovanni on display tonight." He smiled, his grey eyes flashing with mild amusement. "And yes, sadly I was detained. We had an.. incident at the stables. Fortunately nothing too serious but it did eat up the evening." He casually leaned close to whisper in her ear. "I do, however, have plenty of time this evening once dinner is over to make up for lost time if you're free, amore mia." He lifted his face away and glanced around the room, smiling at relatives and strangers with an air of importance, he knew how gossipy everyone could be. Honestly he didn't care. If anything he was proud of his rekindled romance. Who wouldn't be with a woman like Gigi on their arm? A fool perhaps. "Would you care for some wine, mia bellezza?"

Yayoi

Amadeo spotted the head of Machiavelli escorting, well that was an interesting development, the head of Della Passaglia. He allowed a polite smile and returned the greeting. His attention diverted as he finally spotted Thane. Well, he had been exceptionally wrong in his assumption that Thane was hiding out still, dragging out his arrival until the last possible second. In fact it appeared Thane had arrived even earlier than he himself had and was busy taking to his duties with a perfect grace and competence that made the Methuselah swell with pride. The male had made such great strides and was coming into his own at a pace that, while Amadeo expected of him, still gave him great pleasure to witness.

It was Thane's appearance that prompted the Methuselah to finally move from his post atop the balcony, descending the stairs with only a final, quick backwards glance toward the door at the end of the hall. That strange energy radiating heavily now. He moved fluidly down each step, almost floating, until he reached the end and took his place beside his childe. His gaze sliding to the familiar presence, giving the other male a slightly favorable smile, his dark eyes taking him in. He had really gone to the trouble tonight. He had never seen him so polished in all the years they'd been together and it was quite a sight. "You seem to be taking to the evening quite spectacularly." His voice was low, calm, as he shifted his gaze once more to the room and their guests.

Ruriska

Armando was still feeling like he stuck out an atrocious amount, a sore thumb, but he also was trying to stay relatively unseen and being unable to do so simply made it worse. He heard a familiar voice suddenly and turned to spot his cousin standing right behind him. The sight of the formidable male sending an involuntary shiver up his spine, one he always got around the Elder knowing vaguely what dark horrors lurked beneath that handsome facade he'd plastered on for the event tonight. His bright gaze was the only part of the tall male conveying any sense that he was uneasy, even as he did his best to relax. Why had he been so eager for Marcello to arrive again? Perhaps because it was the only familiar face he'd seen so far... aside from Angel's. And that was hardly any kind of comfort.

"You either." He breathed, narrowing his eyes as his cousin swiped his drink. Well, s**t. Well s**t times two. Here came Angel. That voice sent a second shiver racing along his spine again, his unease spiking exponentially, ******** ******** ********. Armando did his best to look as closed off and unapproachable as possible, just to discourage any interest the other male might have in tormenting him this evening. If he was lucky he'd end up being too distracted by his cousins presence to even notice him after this initial greeting.

The Ancilla did, however, incline his head respectfully, his eyes following the shot from counter to lips and back again before they slid to his cousins face to guage his reaction. He knew the two had been on the outs for some time now but he did his best to stay out of their... business. If that's what one could call whatever twisted s**t they did together. "You have some real interesting tastes when it comes to men, you know that?" He sighed, turning to the bartender to get another drink since getting his own back was likely a lost cause at this point.

Seussi

 

[Ruriska]

When Amadeo finally descended the stairs, Thane shifted into position just a step beside him as naturally as breathing. Even if he wasn't the strongest or oldest in the room, he felt powerful alongside his sire, untouchable. His brow arched very slightly, meeting the others' gaze. “It is a special occasion.” If he hadn’t put in some effort on one of the most important social gatherings the Giovanni had hosted in centuries, there would have been hell to pay from Nonna but more fatally, soul-crushing disappointment from Amadeo.

He too scanned the crowd; now at Amadeo’s shoulder, he would not move from this position unless commanded otherwise.

Kinu

 

[Ruriska]

Cheri

Uta

As the party kicked off, Nonna was a bastion of calm. She stood near the middle of the room, her hands clasped lightly before her, untouched by the goings on. Occasionally someone stopped to greet her, to receive a kiss on the cheek and a gentle benediction but that was all. She was a rock the waves crashed around, immovable. At one point she shared a glance with Amadeo up on the balcony, as they both waited for something to shift. The air felt too heavy, charged with power.

Her grandson was a welcome distraction.

“Mio caro ragazzo, mi sei mancato!” She purred, delighted by his hug. Ever the handsome boy, Nonna glowed with pride as she touched his cheek, receiving her kisses graciously and returning them fervently. She rarely admitted to having favourites but Leo definitely had an edge up on the rest. She fussed for a moment, pushing back some stray dark strands from his face.

Then finally her attention shifted to Japheth, a long lost child of their family. He had changed much from when he was a child but Nonna had never forgotten a face or the scent of anyone who carried their bloodline, however distant. She stepped towards him, solemnly inspecting him up and down, then leaning in, slowly planting a kiss on one cheek and then the other.

“Welcome home.”