Spice and Sparkles ((Closed RP- Baron Harkonnen, Jasper, and the Raptor))
((Many thanks to A-mun for coming up with the thread title. It is my area of extreme FAIL.))
Although he couldn't claim to be satisfied, the Baron had finally gotten his rooms in order. He was still irritated that rooms was really one large room, with a closet and a semi-acceptable bathroom, but didn't plan to put up with it forever. What he'd ( Read more... )
Although he couldn't claim to be satisfied, the Baron had finally gotten his rooms in order. He was still irritated that rooms was really one large room, with a closet and a semi-acceptable bathroom, but didn't plan to put up with it forever. What he'd ( Read more... )
"So there's two talking dragons? I've tried to avoid the one I knew about, but. . ." He considered, realizing that he was only being half-evasive of the creature. He thought about it a bit too often to really want to avoid it. "But I think I'm only avoiding it out of fascination- it seems wiser than going to look for it." He grinned at Jasper, wondering why he was bluntly honest with him about this. It was another mildly alarming sign of a genuine affection for him, that didn't appear based upon how pretty he was at all. That was a definite bonus, but, a great deal of people were pretty. Jasper had something else too.
He stared at the raptor with undisguised admiration as Jasper delivered his wonderfully comprehensive explanation about the deadly reptile. To think this was a creature from the very dawn of time was interesting enough, but, even if it not been, it would have been an impressive beast. Vladimir's gaze lingered on the wicked, elegant claws, aware that if the beast so chose, there was a good chance it would kill him before he could pull out his pistol. Even if you couldn't die, injury was probably possible, and, although sensation was often a lovely thing in so many unexpected forms, there were limits and displeasing variants. Such as your guts scattered on the floor. But still he felt no reason to fear the raptor, only to respect such a well-made beast properly. He felt strangely confident that Jasper did bring it along because he thought he would find it interesting, and he was very correct.
"He is remarkable, Jasper." He couldn't help but smile with a bizarre, instant fondness of the creature when it chirruped at him. Vladimir was a believer in certain aspects of natural law, such as the predator's right to be itself. Superiority was a trait to be admired, striven for, not derided out of some misguided sense of humility- what was good, or right, or beneficial in striving to be anything but the best? Such a brilliant design. He could imagine the speed at which it could move from its structure, and the power that must lay behind those jaws. "I am so pleased that you brought him to visit. He's not just remarkable, he's lovely. I would very much like to see him hunt one day, it seems it would be a display of nature at its finest."
It was rather difficult for the Baron to resist reaching out to stroke the spines of the docile-acting creature, being of an impulsively tactile nature. But he knew that acting was the key word, that he was not familiar to it, and it was very capable of taking his hand off in a second if it chose. "Please, do make yourself comfortable. I'm afraid it's not much, but, it's improved somewhat since I discovered it. I'll have to find better eventually, but it's quiet. Thank you very much for visiting." He smiled at Jasper, his mood about the best it had been since he arrived here. Although a couple of the times he'd gotten spells to work right were pretty good too.
He gestured to a couple of sofas, arranged in a close "L" around a coffee table, and drifted over to the red one he'd come to prefer. The other was an acceptable shade of gold, but he failed to find it as comfortable. The room he'd found was off a deep, rarely-used corridor in Slytherin, practically a dungeon, but it was large. It resembled an unused classroom from its size, and the fact that Vladimir had left the desk. He'd brought in (had the house elves bring in, more accurately) an assortment of furniture from various unused-looking rooms, including carpets and a large bed, now draped in crimson silks, and mostly partitioned from Vladimir's attempt at a sitting room by a screen.
Reply
"I've only seen the black dragon from a distance, but I've encountered Smaug-he's the red-golden one-a few times," he replied. "Given his foul temper, avoiding him probably is wise." And if Vladimir did run into the dragon, Jasper dimly hoped he'd be in the area. As he'd found out during said previous encounters, the dragon wasn't immune to his empathic influence, though he was understandably very nervous about tampering with the creature's emotions in the first place. The only sure way to kill a vampire of his kind was to tear them apart and burn the still-living pieces before any pulled back together-who better for that than a huge dragon? It was highly unlikely any of the lesser deities, demons, or even the kitsune at Hogwarts possessed the same physical strength or speed required for that feat. Vampires hadn't evolved to be the perfect predators by having easily exploitable weaknesses. (It was also a Very Good Thing Jasper was unaware of how Vladimir felt about predators.)
"I'm glad you like him," he said, amused by the raptor's attempt at communicating with the Baron. He smoothed his hand down the beast's snout. "Seems he likes you, too. He's very curious about you." That he knew through sensing the raptor's emotions, rather than having any understanding of what his sounds meant.
Jasper subtly took in the layout of the room at a glance as he moved to take a seat on the gold sofa, sitting on the end nearest to where Vladimir would be on the other. He didn't want to seem unfriendly, though he was grateful for the distance between them. Less likely to be any physical contact this way. He left the raptor to choose for himself where he'd like to be; he really wasn't a pet to be commanded, after all.
"Better?" he asked with a quiet chuckle, now deliberately looking around the overly large room for the Baron's benefit. He affected a very convincing impressed expression to ensure his next comment wouldn't be misconstrued as criticism. "The décor is very Gryffindor... Surprising, to see that in Slytherin. Your room's also several times the size of my own, and I share mine." He shared both of 'his' rooms, technically. His attention returned to Vladimir as he settled back comfortably against the cushions, looking more at ease than he truly felt. In truth the anxiety caused by recent events wasn't ever very far from the surface. "It was kind of you to invite me, Vladimir. How have you been liking Hogwarts so far? Have you started studying magic yet, or have you been too busy meeting all the unusual inhabitants here?" Both of which were simply educated guesses; he had no way of knowing for certain what the Baron had occupied himself with since their last meeting.
Reply
Then the two moved (and he observed the Baron floating with keen curiosity), so he wedged himself into the space between the coffee table and where Jasper sat, lying on the floor but with his chin resting up on the vampire's knees, to keep an eye on both men. As if he'd choose to be anywhere else. His adopted packmate obviously wasn't comfortable there, so the raptor didn't yet rule out the possibility of the human being an enemy, fear or no fear. On his home island humans did fall between the enemy and food categories. Especially the egg thief.
He started trying to nibble at Jasper's fingers in the way he'd often done in the past, not knowing any better and hoping to comfort him. Rougher than he'd have been able to be with a human, but, his teeth never pierced or even marked the vampire's hard skin.
((Done with Jasper-mun's approval!))
Reply
Magic was proving immersive, but, his pragmatic mind was learning to comprehend it by viewing it as a subtle scientific phenomenon. Beautiful, intelligent men who seemed to want to visit him and even to amuse him seemed more in the realm of mystical fantasy. Even if Jasper was masterfully playing him for some scheme or another, he didn't feel like worrying about it yet. First, he couldn't see what schemes he'd be much use in here yet, and, second, he knew that being involved in a scheme wasn't inherently bad. He'd pulled his nephew into a brilliant one, intended to land the boy the Imperial throne eventually.
He reduced the power of his supsensors, and settled himself with difficulty. Several days of atypical behavior combined with latent stress over the situation had hit him rather hard, his joints and muscles aching more than usual. He rested his right arm on the armrest nearest Jasper's couch, unable to repress a surge of strange emotion at seeing him sitting in his room, visiting of his own will. He wasn't sure what this emotion was, although it had something in common with the feeling after a well-earned victory. Could it be happy? It wasn't a frequent emotion if so, but he figured he should enjoy it as it was pleasant.
Smiling at the raptor, he told Jasper, "I'm very curious about him too. He's a beautiful creature- there's nothing quite like perfect design, and he's clearly perfect for what he's made for. You appear to have done a remarkable job with him- but you do seem a remarkable young man. Thank you again for dropping by- it's been becoming rather, hrm. . . I think the word is 'lonely'. I've met some interesting people, and, A's been incredibly helpful- but I'm sure he'd prefer to spend his spare time with people his own age. So your visit is a kindness to a somewhat confused old man." He chuckled, not sure why the hell he found himself behaving so honestly with Jasper. Perhaps the man had some natural appeal to those of a predatory nature, he inwardly mused, watching the raptor nibbling at Jasper's fingers, apparently with extreme gentleness considering the lack of damage. Which was fortunate, considering they were lovely fingers.
"I've been getting less confused, but am still confused as to why the hat put me in Slytherin, when it seems this Gryffindor may have been more apt. My House's symbol is the griffon, and there is too much green down here. It's not that I have an issue with the color itself, but, it's the color of the House of my ancestral enemies so I'm not fond of it for decoration. Better means a window, and a bathtub of reasonable size." He smirked, reflecting on the fact that at least it was a functional tub, just seriously cramped. "I'm stuck requiring a bit more room than average." And I even go playing sardonic at myself around him- why the hell does he make me act so relaxed? Perhaps because he doesn't seem to go judging?
He considered Jasper's inquiry about liking Hogwarts. "I'm not sure if I like Hogwarts yet. Some aspects are fascinating. Others, frustrating. I think I'd like it more if I wasn't constantly worrying about home, and if the cultural divide wasn't so profound." He was beginning to feel starved for physical contact, but, he could tell this was not a cultural atmosphere that allowed people to just do whatever they wanted based on superiority. Vladimir was a lifelong politician- he knew it was necessary to appear to be playing by the rules of the game at hand if he was to get anywhere.
"But I've met some interesting people, such as yourself." He gave Jasper his most charming smile. "And with A's help, have started learning about magic." He indicated a large stack of books on the coffee table. "A's idea of a few days worth of reading. He's a bright kid, with a great deal of potential if he's helped along the right way. He helped out with some shopping and obtaining a wand."
Reply
He politely focused on the raptor, letting him nibble his fingers as Vladimir got himself settled, not wanting the man to feel self conscious over being watched. Of course, Jasper was careful to do this in a very natural manner so it wouldn't be obvious he was concerned. Experiencing a rippling echo of Vladimir's emotions, he glanced back up in time to catch him smiling at the dinosaur.
"I really haven't done a thing with him except be myself," he admitted. "I wouldn't know the first thing about training a dinosaur, even though he seems smarter than any dog or horse I've known." The Baron's frankness about being lonely stirred a curious sense of sympathy in him, and prompted him to attempt to ease the man's mood further in the direction of that prior surge of pleasant emotion. Accompanying it was the usual serenely calming atmosphere he liked to project, which would also help to soothe Vladimir's physical discomfort a bit. The comment about being a confused old man drew a genuine smile from Jasper. He wondered if it wouldn't be uncouth to point out his own age-his true one, not his apparent age of 20-when he really couldn't relate to what it must be like to be a mortal with a body still susceptible to the ravages of time. "I enjoy speaking with you," he quietly added instead.
"Over the last few years Gryffindor became known as the House where emotionally damaged heroes in tight clothing got sent... but I think it's back to being the House for the brave now. You're not required to stay in the Slytherin dormitories, if you don't want to. There are also many spells for altering rooms-making them bigger on the inside without affecting their outside dimensions. I'm sure there's something like that for bathroom fixtures too. But creating a window may be a bit trickier down here," he mused, trying and failing to recall any appropriate spells that fit the bill. There were some that could possibly be modified for that purpose, but their results would undoubtedly be inferior to those of a specialised spell tailored specifically for creating functional windows with an outside view. He assumed Vladimir was hoping for a view of the sky and not the earth surrounding the dungeons, anyway.
He noted the stack of books, which probably would have only taken him a few hours to memorise. Leaning forward to turn one of the spines so he could read it, he realised he actually already had learnt that one.
"I've heard interesting theories about time anomalies here. You may find that no time has passed at all when and if you return home, even though years might have passed here." He gently stroked the raptor's snout to make up for jostling him a moment ago, and returned the Baron's smile. "I'm happy to hear A's been helping you. I visited him and his cats in his garden just the other day and helped do some pruning, it was very relaxing." Up until he'd inadvertently revealed his unfortunate dermatological condition, but that was better left unsaid. "Have you been practising any spells, then? Would you mind doing a demonstration?" he asked, teasing a little but figuring the Baron might like to show off if he did know any magic. He pointedly avoided mentioning anything about wands, though, lest Vladimir decide it was a euphemism and get the wrong idea.
Reply
"You do have a magical touch with old tyrants- I expect he can't help but but like you." He smiled warmly at Jasper and his pet, unsure why this man seemed to strip his usual emotional armor by simply being present, but it wasn't like he had an iron-fisted reputation to uphold at the moment. And it would have been a difficult to suppress the almost electrical effect of Jasper's smile and honest-sounding statement that he enjoyed their conversation. When was the last time someone like him wanted to speak with me, without a stack of political ulterior motives? Half a lifetime ago? It's experiences like this that have me wondering if I -am- dead, and this is some bizarre afterlife.
He propped up his legs on an ottoman angled between the sofa and table, grateful to be able to ignore some of his discomfort thanks to Jasper's distracting presence. An increased dose of spice had been of some assistance, but, the company was a better. He smiled at Jasper's ideas on room alteration- he'd been wondering if some of these things might be possible. "It's good I haven't ended up with a bunch of hero-types. They tend to be troublesome, and to the best of my observations, cause half the problems they 'solve'. I plan to try and find other rooms with a better location, but finding something to do first seems wise. It would be a nuisance to have to wind my way through the entire castle to get a classroom on the other side."
He grinned, explaining, "I've been considering teaching- being useless is frustrating. I visited A in his garden recently, and we chatted about it a bit. He's done a very good job with his garden, but it needs chairs. I've been suffering since I decided to sit on the ground. So we're putting in a gazebo. And his cats are charming- I've half a mind to obtain one. But I'm not sure it would provide much of a substitute for human companionship." Which was crazy to go admitting he wanted, but Jasper kept making him drop the typical masks.
"I've been leaning towards the anomaly theories, for my own comfort." He sounded embarrassed by this. The Baron didn't like ignoring things because it was convenient, but, in the circumstances, assuming this seemed the most mentally healthy approach. "It's better to think I'm still at home doing my job than entirely vanished. It makes it more possible to try and enjoy the experience, and to focus on remedial education. Which appears to go well." This surprised him, but he was consistently becoming less amazed every time something worked, because he knew it would.
He withdrew his wand from his robe. It was basic in design and rather short, but thick, made of polished oak, and absolutely inflexible. "I should be able to manage a demonstration. Hopefully it'll not be too much of one. I've already found a weak spot in overdoing it a bit." He made a mental note not to shout the spell. He'd already reduced several wine glasses to a fine powder by smashing them into the wall at high velocity. Luckily, he'd found the "reparo" spell, and it wasn't possible to over-fix things.
He focused on the wine bottles arranged upon a built-in shelf, and directing his wand, firmly stated, "Accio cabernet." One did fly over, at a reasonable speed. He placed it on the table before using equal self-control to summon a pair of glasses, which he set beside the bottle. "I'm not sure if it's good. I asked for quality red wines in Hogsmeade, but am unfamiliar with the vinyards."
Reply
Still smiling, his hand absently rubbing the back of his neck was the only indication of his discomfort over the compliments Vladimir always so freely paid him. He would have almost preferred insincerity and empty praise to this... bizarre flirtation, if he could call it that. He couldn't be sure what it truly was, between them, but hoped it would lessen into a more innocuous interest if he didn't explicitly encourage it. The change of subject to one not about himself was definitely welcome. That the Baron was hoping to gain another title and rank at Hogwarts came as no great surprise.
"Shall I start addressing you as Professor Harkonnen to get you accustomed to hearing it?" he asked solemnly, the corner of his mouth quirking up and giving him away. He wasn't serious. "What are you interested in teaching?" The remark about suffering explained some of what he sensed from Vladimir-he could perceive physical pain in others by the way it affected how they smelt, and even more clearly whenever the discomfort carried over into the mental realm, where it would then be reflected through subtle nuances in one's mood. Everyone was different; no two people had ever tasted quite the same to him, emotionally speaking. So this was what Vladimir tasted like when in mild pain.
Then came the entirely predictable wave of disgusted shame that caused Jasper to look away. He couldn't help liking the flavour, even relishing it; it was simply in his nature, he supposed, since he associated the taste of humans in pain with the more literal taste of human blood, and the all but forgotten relief of having his burning thirst quenched. He'd been living in a half-starved state for so long now...
By choice, he had to remind himself. And he knew he'd only feel worse if he ever gave in to his thirst. Few things compared to the torture of empathic backlash induced by a dying person.
"A gazebo is a very good idea," he commented, still not looking at the Baron, instead occupying himself with tracing the pattern of the raptor's scales with a finger. "I've never had a pet cat, but from what I know of them, they only offer companionship when they want it." This was said with a slight smile. He felt strangely pleased that the Baron was being so sincere with him, even if it also worried him. Maybe he was overdoing the empathic influence. "And I hope you're not hurting too badly? The house-elves would probably be able to help with that, or even someone from the hospital wing... That would seem to be their only purpose now, after all, since no one can die here and magical mishaps aren't as common as they once were."
He eventually glanced back up so he could provide the Baron with an appreciative audience for his demonstration. It didn't matter that Jasper could do the same thing-he knew what it was like to successfully master a spell and then be able to correctly perform it thereafter. The accomplishment felt good. He laughed quietly upon noticing it was red wine. Vladimir might one day understand his amusement, but for the present, Jasper would just play the gracious guest.
"You must be a quick study. And I'm sure you chose well, though I'm afraid fine wines will really only be wasted on me." He wasn't too thrilled by the thought of choking down wine. They all tended to taste like vinegar to him regardless of their quality, what with his changed palate. How absinthe was able to taste so good to him was still a mystery, but he suspected it had as much to do with La Fée Verte's presence and scent as the drink itself. All things considered it was good the Baron hadn't seemed keen on the idea of hanging around the hookah bar, so there was less chance of him ever witnessing what would undoubtedly be a very unfortunate display of inebriated vampire shenanigans.
Reply
The raptor had been being steadily lulled to sleep by the feel of Jasper's cold fingers moving over his scales, but the very soft whoosh of a bottle flying through the air caused him to jerk awake with a hiss of alarm. He sat taller and looked for the source of the noise, and there was a dull thump from his lashing tail striking a leg of the coffee table.
Magic was not a completely foreign concept to him; he'd been at Hogwarts for a few years, and there was also all the oddities he'd lately observed Jasper doing with and without a wand. He soon grasped what had happened when he saw the floating glasses moving to join the bottle on the table, so lazily resettled his head back in Jasper's lap. This magic wasn't something he had to fear or defend against. Let's be grateful he wasn't able to wedge his snout between Jasper's legs in the way dogs were prone to do, because he definitely would have. And he did try to, briefly, but gave up with another of his content, rumbling growls, his eyes losing focus again.
Reply
He shifted slightly, attempting to become more comfortable, which wasn't easy. He noticed Jasper's slight shift of mood and focus, and wondered if he might have said something wrong. "I hope I didn't upset your pet at all. And I know I'm only recently arrived, and it's rather presumptuous to assume I can find a job and fill it. But, this place needs some more organization. I can't figure out how it is being funded, and, if someone doesn't bother with some attention to details, it could become a mess." He sounded apologetic- it wasn't that he was apologetic about his idea, but rather about potentially upsetting Jasper in some difficult to discern way.
"The gazebo idea was A's, as I mentioned that he needed some seating. His garden was a pleasant sort of place to spend time in. My world is not the sort that's conducive to, hrm, natural settings. It's not that there aren't plants, but, it's very artificial conditions." He smiled affectionately at Jasper's inquiry about his well-being. Such a perfectly behaved young man. It's like he's been specially trained to be ideal company.
"I'm grateful for your concern Jasper. I'll survive. I'm just not really of an age or condition that's suited to a great deal of unexpected stress. It's mainly because I don't have my attendants. A good massage is the answer, and, house elves are not doing that. Or random strangers from a hospital wing." Vladimir was not about to be touched by creepy little midgets, nor did he feel confident dealing with medical practitioners who weren't Suk educated. Medicine here was probably primitive. It was one of those annoying aching conditions that didn't exactly hurt unless he moved, but it was all the more irritating for being constantly present. He'd decided just to wait it out. But, he'd happily allow Jasper to assist, and considered suggesting it, deciding against it for the time being. He didn't want to frighten Jasper off. His company was pleasant as it was, and, although he could think of many more things he'd like to do with him, Vladimir was content to speak with him for now. Not that he'd complain about whatever he could get.
"I'm sorry that you find wine less than exciting. But, if you let me know what you'd prefer, I can make sure to have it the next time you drop by." He summoned a corkscrew from the shelf and directed it next to the bottle and glasses. "Moving too much isn't that pleasant, so perhaps I can take advantage of your presence and talk you into opening that?" He smiled at Jasper hopefully- it was one of those questions that was delivered in the classic leadership style of phrasing a command as a question. But, it wasn't demanding, and there were tones of affection in Vladimir's voice. He was of course unaware of Jasper's empathy, but, even without it, his reaction would have been similar, simply due to the man's behavior and appearance. Thus, Jasper's empathic influence was having a magnifying sort of effect, rather than creating an artificial one. And so it was very effective.
"So far, the subject of magic is interesting, but I'm not so sure I've been learning that quickly. I've only bothered with a few spells. Mainly, spells related the manipulation of objects. It's easy to see if they've succeeded, and it provides a good concrete reference. Mostly I've been studying the theory behind the spellcraft, more than bothering with any rote memorization. Everything has foundational patterns, and, if I learn to understand those first, the rest should come easily. And could be improved upon."
Reply
"Seeing as there are only two classes being actively offered, you may have your choice of subjects. But I believe there are more than two professors still here, who may not take kindly to a newcomer invading their unused turf, as it were." He was smiling thinly, his cynicism apparent. "But if you're better suited for the job-and you'd have to be, if you're actually willing to do the job-hopefully you'll be accepted. I've had similar thoughts of helping with organisation here, though not in a professorial capacity. It was actually inspired by learning of A's disturbing past."
He continued running his fingers along the raptor's scales once he'd calmed down, helping to soothe him back to sleep. And Jasper definitely was grateful there wasn't any embarrassing crotch snuffling going on, thank you very much. He murmured to the raptor in an undertone, meaningless words meant to comfort, and trailed off as he listened to the Baron describe his ailments. The implication that he'd allow Jasper to administer the massage wasn't entirely subtle, nor was it so blatant he'd have to feel awkward about it, which he appreciated.
He eyed the Baron for a moment with a thoughtful expression. His physical contact with humans had been drastically limited ever since he'd gone on his 'diet'-even his contact with Bella, a human he loved as a sister and trusted, was carefully restricted to the point of being nonexistent. Safer that way, for both of them.
"Well, I don't know how much help I'd be-I mean, I'd likely do more damage than good since massage is hardly my forte, but, if you want..." His uncertainty had more to do with the fact he could crush Vladimir's bones with less effort than it took a human to crumple paper, and less with worrying about Vladimir enjoying the massage in an inappropriate manner. There was also his thirst to consider. Being that close to a human again might be agonising. Vladimir's seeming command gave him pause even with the obvious affection behind it, but it was only a moment before he moved to comply. It wasn't as though he minded helping.
"Oh, it isn't about how exciting wine is or isn't," he said, pulling his wand from his sleeve, where it had been held in place by being slipped through the crest on his wrist. Using wandless magic would just be showing off. He summoned the corkscrew and bottle to his hand. "I don't have a terribly... sophisticated palate. I can't tell the difference between qualities." Which wasn't even a lie. "Maybe you could educate me," he said, trying not to look too amused. Vladimir already had, in abundance, exactly the thing he'd prefer, but he wasn't going to say as much. Intimating one would like to dine on their host was plain bad manners, and could too easily be misinterpreted. He levitated the opened bottle, cork, and corkscrew back to the table.
"I haven't delved too far into magical theory and philosophy yet," he admitted, looking maybe a touch embarrassed. Philosophy of any sort had always interested him, so it was unusual for him to bypass it in favour of more 'exciting' aspects of magical education. "Maybe you would share your insight once I do? I guess I've been lazy... Memorisation is really the easiest part, and I suppose it helps to know Latin. Although, I have been noticing patterns that are perhaps similar to what you mean. It's hard not to feel the patterns of magic after performing so many spells, and that's actually the foundation of wandless magic-recalling those patterns in your mind, and focusing them on your own, without aid of a conduit such as a wand. The user's own focus is the conduit."
Reply
"That point's A. He's an intelligent young man, with admirable focus. But, it appears someone's gotten to him and good. I'm curious as to your thoughts on it- he has potential, but, he's damaged by previous events. From what hints I've aquired, these are serious, involving some manner of intense conditioning. Possibly over most of his lifetime, as that's usually needed for complex conditioning." These were known in the Imperium- Suk doctors and Mentat-Assassins were two commonly-known products of conditioning procedures. "I was curious as to your thoughts. It's good to discuss information and theories with somebody else, as, they may pick up errors, and two minds are likely to come up with more productive data than one."
Vladimir couldn't suppress another affectionate smile at Jasper when he rather shyly and hesitantly implied that he would be willing to give him a massage. Even if it wasn't his forte, surely there was no way those lovely hands could do anything but improve the situation. "I'm sure you wouldn't do too much damage, Jasper, I'm not too easy to break. And I'm already feeling miserable, so, it couldn't do anything but help." He knew it wasn't likely to progress into anything too interesting, but he'd be grateful for even the limited physical contact even if it didn't assist much. He'd not had any in too long, and would be pleased with what good fortune might allow.
He watched Jasper's neatly-performed magical demonstration appreciatively. "And thank you very much." He smiled gratefully and leaned forward to fill the glasses, trying to ignore the sharper pain this reawakened in his back. He indicated to Jasper to select his desired cup before taking his own. "I'd of course be pleased to educate you, but, I'm not sure how educational I could be on Earth wines of the ancient era. Not without some more experience. Some of what I've tried taste familiar, but others less familiar, and some sorts don't exist at all. Like spice wine."
He smiled slightly as he reached into his robe to pull out a small, tightly-sealed canister of ornate design and twisted it open to sprinkle a few grains of cinnamon-scented substance into his glass. "And a bit of the spice can sometimes improve the flavor. Not always, but it does work very well with reds. I am not sure if you would be interested in it? It can have rather strong effects on some people, but promotes health in small amounts."
He swirled his glass slightly to assist the grains of spice in dissolving, and took a deep drink. The spice did not go too badly with it, and it was not a bad vintage, if slightly dry. "Memorization's probably the best way to gain practical knowledge quickly. I just have not been in a hurry, and so have been trying to learn in a way that will speed up the process in the long-run. Again, you reveal just why I do need to hire you as my personal assistant." He chuckled, but, he still wasn't entirely joking. "I think there's a great deal more in the focus, and less in the words and the wands than the books immediately suggest. There's no logical reason why a piece of wood with a bit of mythological creature in it should be the one thing that dictates the ability to do or not to magic. But, the belief that it can be done appears to be a strong component. So I wonder if this is the wand's most important purpose."
Reply
He'd been absently fingering his wand, and, realising so, tucked it back into its place in his sleeve. "For what my thoughts are worth, I suspect aspects of that trauma may always be with him, as deeply ingrained in his psyche as it seems to be," he said. Which he knew mostly through careful observance of A's emotional state, but he also knew he could be wrong. "Whatever his original potential was is now lost, but, in overcoming his trauma, his potential may become even greater, depending on what you mean by potential. To be well-adjusted and grow as a person? To learn? The former would be of greater use to him right now."
Since the Baron hadn't indicated he wanted the massage right that minute, Jasper summoned his chosen glass slowly to his hand, without bothering to pull his wand back out. He tentatively sipped the wine, found the flavour slightly less acetic than expected. Not good, but not completely repugnant either. He watched with interest when Vladimir produced the canister, already able to smell the spice before it was opened-cinnamon-like, but very obviously something different, something... more. Something he felt compelled to taste. Gently shifting the raptor, he leant forward and held his glass out toward the Baron. "I'm curious to try some. A smaller amount than is usual would probably be best, as I've never had any before. Once you've had time to enjoy your wine, we'll see about your massage. You could stay where you are and just lean forward if that would be most comfortable." Anything was fine as long as clothing stayed very much on.
Vladimir repeating his half-serious offer earned him a smile. Jasper had been mildly flattered before, taking it as simply a form of praise, but now wondered just how earnest the Baron was being. The offer wasn't unappealing. It would give him something interesting to do, presumably without monopolising his time-he did have other obligations and desires, most notably pertaining to Alice and Satou, as well as seeing to his own magical education.
"Belief does seem to be a very large part of the magic here. As I understand it: Without belief that the spell can be done, focus would be as pointless as flipping a switch and expecting light when there's no light bulb in the socket. Um, assuming you can follow that metaphor." He had no idea what energy sources might be like in the Baron's time. Perhaps they weren't dependent on electricity. "And what would being your personal assistant entail?" he asked with a chuckle.
Reply
Some might argue that Vladimir was being hypocritical with this view. He'd repeatedly had his way with many slaves, not always with their enthusiasm. But, Vladimir was from a different culture, and they were slaves. A disposable commodity, like livestock. His mentat was twisted by Tleilaxu conditioning, but he was a ghola, a genetic duplicate of a dead man pre-inclined to take the conditioning properly. Piter had probably enjoyed it.
"I'm surprised A is doing as well as he is, and hope B is gone for good. He's likely hold a grudge, A should have finished it or waited till he could." He frowned as he realized that A was a letter, and not a very short name. A deserved better. "He should select an actual name, I doubt he called himself a letter. He is doing remarkably well despite this all, and appears to want to succeed. With a new environment and proper encouragement, I'd agree with your assessment. His potential may be greater for it in the long run, if he learns confidence in himself as an individual."
He smiled slightly at Jasper, adding, "I'm not sure why I find myself specifically interested in his future. He's been helpful, shows potential, and such shouldn't be wasted. Teaching is not an entirely unappealing career change, even if inflicted by exile. There's less productive things to do than trying to improve a school."
Vladimir felt genuine delight at Jasper's interest in the spice. It wasn't that he thought the substance might reduce his inhibitions, or anything underhanded. Despite its value, it seemed a small gift for a creature this rare, but it was something he could offer. "In small doses, it has a mild effect. It may produce a feeling of alert relaxation and well-being, but it may also stimulate the mind and senses." He carefully tapped a few tiny grains of the substance into Jasper's glass. "It's something like cinnamon, but never exactly the same twice. Spice is the greatest treasure of the Imperium, and I hope you will enjoy it."
Taking a drink of his wine, an affectionate smile played on lips as he anticipated the promised massage. There wasn't a point to rushing it. He was savoring this company. "I think you're exactly right about the belief aspect to magic. The first time it worked it took tossing aside the disbelief for a moment, accepting that I wouldn't be holding a wand and watching others others perform it if it wasn't possible. It didn't work right, but something worked. After that, it's been much easier."
He looked fondly at Jasper, adding, "I am actually serious about the assistant idea. You're already doing it perfectly. The occasional massage could never go amiss, but mainly it would just consist of conversation." He sounded more serious about the conversation, but there was no doubt he was looking forward to the attention. "I like to have someone to discuss things with, it often leads to a deeper understanding and better choices. I'm not sure what adequate compensation for the job would be, but, I expect I could come up with something you'd be pleased with."
Perhaps Jasper wasn't a mentat, but, he was doing things perfectly anyway. Vladimir knew that his need to replace Piter was just a good rationalization for spending time with him. It was important to have one of these. He wasn't about to say that mainly he wanted to spend time with him, that Jasper made him feel uniquely alive in a way he'd long forgotten. He found that with Jasper's attention, he was content to be exiled to this absurd castle. To go admitting such would reveal an exploitable weakness. He didn't know Jasper could read it anyway.
Reply
He nodded solemnly in response to Vladirmir's conjecturing that it was nothing more than an experiment for whatever vile organisation had been training A, presumably since birth. "As I understand it, L was a highly specialised sort of detective in their world, requiring anyone in his position to be extraordinarily intelligent and possess abilities normally thought to be beyond human capacity. I can't imagine anyone being forcefully trained to replace him would have had a very enjoyable life, even without the physical abuse."
And again it was a small mercy Jasper had no way of knowing how the Baron viewed the practise of slavery, nor how he'd treated his own. Jasper had always tried to be a very tolerant, considerate person, but even he had his limits. And he had lived through the despicable period in human history when slavery had been both legal and commonplace; he'd be dismayed to know humanity was more or less doomed to endlessly repeat its follies rather than ever learning from them.
"Choosing a real name for himself may also help distance him from his past," he said thoughtfully. "I would think any of the people he's known here for a while might have already suggested as much to him, but I can't be sure. I suspect he might only consider the idea if someone who's very close to him brings it up." And he, too, had an interest in A's overall well being and future, though more in a protective older brother way than the quasi-paternal form Vladimir's was taking on. Which was maybe a little unusual, since he was older than Vladimir and A both-but people had always related to him as though he were a 20 year old young man, so he'd rarely had the opportunity to foster the mindset of a much older person.
"Thank you." He raised his glass in a toasting gesture, then settled back against the sofa cushions and pulled the slumbering dinosaur's head more fully into his lap again. It was oddly comforting, having the raptor trusting him and seeming so at ease with him physically.
There was no real blending of flavours for him when he tried the spice-seasoned wine. There was the wine, and then there was the trace of something almost delicious, comparable to the hint of cloying sweetness in the scent of rotting things. The spice was that deceptive sweetness, the wine was the rot. As he drank more, the spice was indeed having a noticeable effect, likely amplified by his being a vampire. While his vision was normally acute to the point of being distracting if he allowed himself to get lost in simply looking at things, his vision with that tiny amount of spice was something else. He could perceive unusually bright haloes of light and colour around everything, especially the raptor and the Baron.
He realised the Baron had been speaking to him, and struggled to pull his gaze away from the fascinating tangle of glimmering colour-a vein?-in the man's temple. "I'm happy to speak with you without having a title attached, or being paid to," he said with a soft laugh. "But if you'd prefer it in a more formal capacity, like helping prepare the curriculum for your future classes, I'm willing to do that too." Combined with the startling effects of the spice, the emotions he could perceive from Vladimir had his senses swimming for a moment; akin to sensory overload. Perhaps the spice had been a bad idea. Still... it was a pretty interesting experience. He slowly smiled as he added, "Though I am very curious as to what kind of compensation you'd come up with."
Reply
The Baron nodded agreement with Jasper's further assessments of A. He was determined that A would recover from his past incidents, but, it wasn't the sort of thing that could be rushed to succeed. It was still very confusing to be cultivating a paternal sort of interest in someone for no specific reasons, but, for some reason Hogwarts seemed to be bringing out Vladimir's better traits. He was the sort of individual who reacted to situations as necessitated by the situations themselves. Although he'd spent most of his career focusing on the heavy-handed side of politics and mastering the art of cruelty, he was no longer in the same situation. It was true that he missed his position, and his home, and his family, but, he knew this wouldn't make any difference to the situation. And so he was trying to view it with an open mind.
Basically, he could see no specific reason to behave like a bastard, and found himself playing a more benevolent role of the sort he'd been planning to push Feyd into. It was the choice of advantage, but, he found he didn't mind it so much- it was easier than making new enemies, those happened anyway, and enabled him to find some pleasure in the reduced stress. He of course had his own comfort in mind, but, he was a natural hedonist, and insisted on enjoying the exile to some degree. The main frustration was becoming that lack of physical contact. Preferably with lovely young men, a far too perfect example of which was sitting a mere few feet away.
So it was probably good that Hogwarts was awakening Vladimir's better aspects, as, it was impossible for him to watch Jasper and his pet without wishing he was in its place. He took a deep drink of his wine, enjoying the familiar sensations as the spice moved through his system. Such a lucky creature, I do hope he appreciates the privilege. When the spice-altered attention of those beautiful golden eyes turned to him, seeming to watch him in a way that was hard to interpret, he of course had a momentary flicker of wonder. Was this gorgeous young man actually interested in what he was? Surely that couldn't be right?
Vladimir was certain there had to be some bizarre unknown attached to this entire situation, as it seemed far too perfect, but it wasn't this that kept him from attempting to haul Jasper off to the bedroom despite his aching joints. Nor was the fact that breaking an apparent social taboo might make people angry and prove a disadvantage to his goals. He wanted Jasper, true, but he found he had no desire to upset Jasper, or cause him to feel uncomfortable. It was unusual and a bit troublesome to be feeling this way, more concerned for Jasper than himself, but, Jasper made him feel so unnaturally good. Vladimir found himself wanting Jasper to feel good as well.
His spice-edged consciousness added an extra resonance to Jasper's voice. It was lovely just to listen to him speak, especially when they were such pleasing words. "I'd hate to ruin a new friendship with imposing too many formalities on it, of course, but, I would be flattered to call you my assistant. Or anything else you'd prefer." Jasper's smile couldn't help but summon one of his own, and Vladimir felt that rather unfamiliar surge of the emotion that had to be happiness again, as well as genuine affection. The comment about compensation actually caused him to flush slightly, but he felt rather sure that it wouldn't be wise to respond to the perceived flirtation with an example of what he'd like to offer. "And as I have found your company to be one of the best points of Hogwarts, I'll have to make sure to come up with something good. It may require some creativity, having come here with nothing more than myself and some spice. How are you enjoying it?" It's probably good I've met him here, and not at home. He'd be able to bankrupt me with that smile. There was of course no way for Vladimir to know that the most interesting commodity he possessed was in his own veins.
Reply
"You may call me what you wish," he assented, and though he was still smiling, his manner had become markedly more somber. He had allowed himself to become distracted and far too comfortable, between the effects of the spice and more notably the Baron's exceedingly pleasant presence, and he'd somehow forgotten one very important factor. He was not human, would never be human again. He could play at being mortal all he liked, but it wouldn't change anything; it would only deceive others. Once Vladimir knew this truth, Jasper rather doubted his kind offer would still stand-and he wouldn't blame the Baron, any more than he'd blame the stag for fleeing before the wolf. It was simply the natural, logical reaction. No human would ever be truly safe around Jasper. What Vladimir was proposing was just inviting disaster. Much like rooming with Satou. Like attending a school full of humans. Especially like offering a massage to one.
Assistant, a position presumably for someone the Baron saw as an inferior, a subordinate... So there could have been a collar, just of a different sort than Jasper had originally expected. He might have enjoyed it. But he didn't feel too bad about things-Vladimir would undoubtedly find someone more suitable for the role in time, someone who wasn't at risk of ripping him apart and lapping up his blood like a mindless animal the first time he got a paper cut. Perhaps A would volunteer. It would really be an ideal solution, he thought.
"I've enjoyed your company as well," he said, a curious note of finality behind his words. "And also the wine, the spice. It's as remarkable as you'd said it would be. Thank you again." The specifics of just how remarkable it was to him he'd keep to himself, at least for the moment. But this praise was obviously honest, given he'd already drained his glass by then. He levitated it onto the coffee table, far enough away from Vladimir that he wouldn't think he had to offer more.
Jasper had delayed the inevitable long enough. He sighed inwardly as he gently shifted the sleeping raptor once more, letting the creature have his place on the sofa as he slid out from underneath him and stood up. He needlessly straightened his robes before stepping around the couches and moving to menacingly loom stand behind where the Baron was seated.
"What would you like me to do?"
Reply
Leave a comment