Encounterlogs
Viktorins Odd Encounter Sr Harriet 240421
In a chilling night at the Black Rose Café, three vampire hunters - Michael, Kyle, and Thomas - find themselves entangled in a dangerous dance with a vampire named Caelum and a demigod named Viktorin. The encounter, simmering with tension and the threat of violence, takes a psychological toll on the hunters, particularly Michael, who is physically and emotionally intimidated by Caelum’s sinister charm and veiled threats. Caelum's admission of being “very, very hungry” and his display of razor-sharp fangs instill fear yet reveal his powerful, predatory nature, ensuring the hunters are keenly aware of their precarious position. Despite their initial intentions of hunting what they perceived as a threat, the trio finds themselves reconsidering their path, especially when faced with Viktorin’s offer to one of their own for redemption and purpose beyond violence.
Thomas, singled out by Viktorin for his potential and curiosity, shows a willingness to engage with the ideas of peace, equality, and love that Viktorin and his Order stand for, despite the lurking fear of Caelum’s presence. Meanwhile, Michael and Kyle, significantly shaken by the encounter, choose to retreat hastily from the café, their resolve shaken and their mission questioned. The scenario concludes with Caelum returning to a casual interaction with the barista, leaving the viewer to wonder about the genuine nature of his humanity or if it's merely another layer of his predatory disguise. This high-stakes interaction not only illuminates the complexities of navigating a world where supernatural beings exist alongside humans but also underscores the themes of fear, power dynamics, and the quest for understanding and purpose amidst the unknown.
(Caelum's odd encounter(SRHarriet):SRHarriet)
[Sat Apr 20 2024]
In Black Rose Cafe
Large columns support the high ceiling which has
a large stained glass roof that, in the day time
at least, dapples the small cafe below in shades
of rosy reds, greens and dark gray shadows. Each
of the black painted columns are ornamented with
leafy vines that wind their way around them. The
walls are covered from ceiling down with crimson
lake hued wallpaper, embossed in a subtle raised
pattern of more of the blooms that lend the shop
its name. From roughly head height the wallpaper
gives way to darkly stained wood panelling which
then gives way to similar dark hard wood floors.
In the center of the room is a circular counter,
inside of which serves as the hub for the little
cafe that offers patrons a place to sit and read
while snacking or sipping on some coffee or tea.
It is night, about 54F(12C) degrees, and there are a few dark grey stormclouds in the sky. Ankle high mist flows through the area. There is a waxing gibbous moon.
A visceral chill runs down Michael's spine, not only due to the grip at his hair, but taking in the vampire's words that are whispered with that sinister intimacy. They force Michael to reassess, and he considers Caelum who is the embodiment of myths and horror stories -- the very ones that fuel his vocation. The admission of Caelum being very, very hungry seems to bring about some relief -- a hope that Caelum has not been feeding on anyone -- and some great amount of fear -- maybe he is hungry enough to feed on them right now? "It's not about heroism," he shares. "We seek to protect the innocent." There's probably a lot more to him being part of a vampire hunting group, but that's all he's claiming right now. Kyle manages to find his voice, sharing, "We're not here for vengeance. We're here because we believed there was a danger. Something about you seemed off," he's telling Viktorin, who was pretty lonely when the group took notice of him. Thomas is visibly shaken, especially by the casual brutality that Caelum implies in his words, but he still attempts to find a diplomatic exit from the confrontation with, "A redemption sounds preferable," in a quick agreement, nodding to Viktorin. "We're more like researchers." An easy claim to make when you've got a vampire next to you who seems to be toying with his prey and ready to pounce. When Viktorin revealed he was a demigod, it doesn't seem to surprise the three whatsoever due to that vanity on display. "You can tell your friend," Michael says to Viktorin about Caelum. "That we'll head out without any trouble. We'll leave town right now."
All their signs of fear, as if it cascades upon some primal urge to thrive on it, makes Caelum all the more terrifying in his display to them. While to the mundane it might seem like a troublesome scenario, he remedies that with his hand sliding down from Michael's head. Instead, he's tossed his arm over their shoulder like some friendly gathering, and he's just teasing his friends. Nothing more - that's it. Outwardly. Closer, things are different. Brazenly, with all the and every bit of intimidation, in their proximity, he bares those razored, terrifyingly large fangs in his mouth with another smile just hanging by the neck of his current captive.
Maybe, if they observe, if they know their stuff, they may realize from the vibrancy of his eyes, to the *life* in his sharp smile in the dead of nightly hours, they may realize that no - he is not underfed. This vampire is one perpetually hungry, not wrought with starvation, but nevertheless the sort, the type to gorge on his prey. And they are, prey. He doesn't say anything, not while they still converse with Viktorin - but at the end when they claim their desire to leave, he gives an ominous warning. "I know hunters. You'll be back." It may not be the sort they're looking for. "Please," And his words are a serpentine hiss molding each syllable through his threatening dentistry. "*Do* come back for me."
"You may leave then. Except you," Viktorin states, and then jerks his finger towards Thomas. "You have promise, to be someone greater than that who wreaks havoc and destruction. Potentially." Gently, he explains to the man, "I am an Orderite. We seek to protect both humans and the supernatural. Establish equality, peace, and love into the world. If of course, that doesn't sound interesting to you, if being truly virtuous is against your whims, then you may leave with the others. However, I find that your ability to be introspective to be one suited to our cause." A gentle smile coaxes itself upon the Czech's lips, a softening of his rather stoic features of before. A bit of compassion thrown the man's way.
Caelum is gifted with an amused smile, "Do let me know if they return and they hurt anyone. I would be happy to chuck them into the clinic for a mental examination. For quite a long while too."
This intense encounter between a demigod, a vampire, and three inexperienced vampite hunters is reaching its zenith, and each member of trio is deeply affected by the ominous presence of Caelum. Feeling the weight of Caelum's arm over his shoulder, Michael struggles internally with the fear caused by that outwardly friendly gesture that is laden with a heavy, unspoken threat. Those fangs are more than just a stark reminder of the danger lurking so casually beside him, and in a voice that is tainted with an underlying notes of urgency, Michael responds after giving a subtle nod to his companions. They are all young, after all, and new to the vampire hunting game, and still have much to learn. It is likely they will not ever forget the predatory gaze of the vampire here with them tonight. Kyle puts away his dagger. "Thank you for the... discussion," he manages, looking down at the tabletop as he moves to rise, so long as Caelum's buddy-buddy hold allows him to do so. Michael is driven by a primal fear, and he does not try to argue with Viktorin's claim on Thomas for the moment. His mind is overwhelmed with the knowledge that the three must reconsider their mission. As for Thomas, he's also terrified of Caelum, casting nervous glances his way until Viktorin is pointing him out. "Me?" the young man asks confusedly. "I -- I'd like to know more," gets stuttered out in an admission that is heavily tinged with apprehension and also, somehow, with genuine interest. He's signaled his willingness to engage further with the Orderite.
Of course they're allowed to leave. To stand, to move away. Caelum is a happy camper, the most amiable there could ever be. The charade of a friendy get-together is kept in how he taunts Michael still, ruffles the man's hair from his side, bumps him with his shoulder with a palm. Friendly banter, casual 'bros being bros'. At least, to others in the cafe-bookstore. To Michael, it is more than that. It's the testing bumps and nudges of a shark in the water, the rough-play of a wolf, the swarm of a bat. Expertly veiled beneath a visage of normalcy.
Whereas Viktorin promises safety, a harbor, and bloodless terms of separation - there is no doubt in his eyes that this vampire, watching all three, will not forget about them, either - and he is most definetly the sort that caters to beliefs like Viktorin's. "I'll *see you later*, leave you to it." Two digits tip over his brow in bid adieu. Casual, yes, but ominous to hear that from the last person you /want/ to see, who is currently disengaging, heading back to his discarded, cold cup of coffee at the counter.
Viktorin gestures towards Michael and Kyle. "Leave my sight then, please. Those who bring violence and bloodshed to Haven will not find a warm welcome from I, or my fellows." He gives a small nod of appreciation towards Caelum, telling them, "Thank you for your assistance," before continuing to speak with Thomas. Murmuring softly, the dusky thing states, "I am in charge of the Shields, a portion of the Order... Those who protect. The Order is a society based upon three tenets, that which I have spoke of. Peace, Equality, Love. That is what we fight for. We do not kill, and we prefer to offer a path away from the darkness and corruption that one can tread upon." Humming softly, he produces his phone, and then tells the man, "If you're still interested, I can hand you off to one of our members, and hopefully, she'll send you back to me."
The rogue vampire waves off over his shoulder. Already sitting with his back turned to them. Caelum entertains that cold cup of coffee in his relative silence, and as if nothing at all happened, like all is right in the world once more - he's leant slightly forward on the counter. Not even a beat since he's sat down, but he's in an animated conversation with the barista, hushed as it is, one that leaves her all giggle and smiles, and him with a half-grin of his own. If its anything to pick up on, its over books - one that she brings out behind the counter. An order, wrapped up in cellophane paper like a gift, finally in his hands. A *very* frequent, avid patron here, indeed.
Maybe, she's just the next victim. Who's to say whether this display is of genuine humanity in something the ones at his back considers lifeless and cold - or just a perfect mask, assuming his warm-bodied role once again to continue the possible string of murders that may have lead them to think there is a serial vampire out on the loose. Them, and others.
What a casual camaraderie charade it is that Caelum keeps up, and Michael feels every little nudge and bump as a clear as day assertion of dominance, well aware of the peril that lurks beneath the seemingly innocuous gestures. This man can feel the subtle, but very unmistakable threats, yet he manages a stiff nod and a forced, thin smile. The playful ruffling of his hair sends a chill right down his spine. "Yeah, see you," Michael responds to both Caelum and Viktorin, unable to mask his tension and making a swift departure. Kyle had got to experience the full brunt of Caelum's mesmerizing presence earlier, and he also wastes no time in making his exit. That earlier indecision has been entirely replaced by a resolute desire to escape what now feels like an oppressive atmosphere, and he is more certainly rethinking his life's choices. He avoids making eye contact with Caelum and Viktorin, taking quick steps out the door. Thomas is not exactly comfy here, but his curiosity has gotten the best of him, searching for his purpose, and he also has that poetic nature about his thought processes that Michael simply cannot handle, but Viktorin seems to /get/ him. "That sounds exactly like the kind of purpose I've been searching for." His eyes reflect the sincere interest he has, even amidst the terror that resides in his gaze, especially each time he glances over at Caelum. He continues to talk with Viktorin for as long as he is allowed, arranging to learn more about the membership with one of the factions.
With the help of Caelum, Viktorin has managed to escape any truly harmful experience at the hands of the young vampire hunters, and instead may have found a friend who can gush idealistic views and relay thoughts through poetry and philosophy.
Thomas, singled out by Viktorin for his potential and curiosity, shows a willingness to engage with the ideas of peace, equality, and love that Viktorin and his Order stand for, despite the lurking fear of Caelum’s presence. Meanwhile, Michael and Kyle, significantly shaken by the encounter, choose to retreat hastily from the café, their resolve shaken and their mission questioned. The scenario concludes with Caelum returning to a casual interaction with the barista, leaving the viewer to wonder about the genuine nature of his humanity or if it's merely another layer of his predatory disguise. This high-stakes interaction not only illuminates the complexities of navigating a world where supernatural beings exist alongside humans but also underscores the themes of fear, power dynamics, and the quest for understanding and purpose amidst the unknown.
(Caelum's odd encounter(SRHarriet):SRHarriet)
[Sat Apr 20 2024]
In Black Rose Cafe
Large columns support the high ceiling which has
a large stained glass roof that, in the day time
at least, dapples the small cafe below in shades
of rosy reds, greens and dark gray shadows. Each
of the black painted columns are ornamented with
leafy vines that wind their way around them. The
walls are covered from ceiling down with crimson
lake hued wallpaper, embossed in a subtle raised
pattern of more of the blooms that lend the shop
its name. From roughly head height the wallpaper
gives way to darkly stained wood panelling which
then gives way to similar dark hard wood floors.
In the center of the room is a circular counter,
inside of which serves as the hub for the little
cafe that offers patrons a place to sit and read
while snacking or sipping on some coffee or tea.
It is night, about 54F(12C) degrees, and there are a few dark grey stormclouds in the sky. Ankle high mist flows through the area. There is a waxing gibbous moon.
A visceral chill runs down Michael's spine, not only due to the grip at his hair, but taking in the vampire's words that are whispered with that sinister intimacy. They force Michael to reassess, and he considers Caelum who is the embodiment of myths and horror stories -- the very ones that fuel his vocation. The admission of Caelum being very, very hungry seems to bring about some relief -- a hope that Caelum has not been feeding on anyone -- and some great amount of fear -- maybe he is hungry enough to feed on them right now? "It's not about heroism," he shares. "We seek to protect the innocent." There's probably a lot more to him being part of a vampire hunting group, but that's all he's claiming right now. Kyle manages to find his voice, sharing, "We're not here for vengeance. We're here because we believed there was a danger. Something about you seemed off," he's telling Viktorin, who was pretty lonely when the group took notice of him. Thomas is visibly shaken, especially by the casual brutality that Caelum implies in his words, but he still attempts to find a diplomatic exit from the confrontation with, "A redemption sounds preferable," in a quick agreement, nodding to Viktorin. "We're more like researchers." An easy claim to make when you've got a vampire next to you who seems to be toying with his prey and ready to pounce. When Viktorin revealed he was a demigod, it doesn't seem to surprise the three whatsoever due to that vanity on display. "You can tell your friend," Michael says to Viktorin about Caelum. "That we'll head out without any trouble. We'll leave town right now."
All their signs of fear, as if it cascades upon some primal urge to thrive on it, makes Caelum all the more terrifying in his display to them. While to the mundane it might seem like a troublesome scenario, he remedies that with his hand sliding down from Michael's head. Instead, he's tossed his arm over their shoulder like some friendly gathering, and he's just teasing his friends. Nothing more - that's it. Outwardly. Closer, things are different. Brazenly, with all the and every bit of intimidation, in their proximity, he bares those razored, terrifyingly large fangs in his mouth with another smile just hanging by the neck of his current captive.
Maybe, if they observe, if they know their stuff, they may realize from the vibrancy of his eyes, to the *life* in his sharp smile in the dead of nightly hours, they may realize that no - he is not underfed. This vampire is one perpetually hungry, not wrought with starvation, but nevertheless the sort, the type to gorge on his prey. And they are, prey. He doesn't say anything, not while they still converse with Viktorin - but at the end when they claim their desire to leave, he gives an ominous warning. "I know hunters. You'll be back." It may not be the sort they're looking for. "Please," And his words are a serpentine hiss molding each syllable through his threatening dentistry. "*Do* come back for me."
"You may leave then. Except you," Viktorin states, and then jerks his finger towards Thomas. "You have promise, to be someone greater than that who wreaks havoc and destruction. Potentially." Gently, he explains to the man, "I am an Orderite. We seek to protect both humans and the supernatural. Establish equality, peace, and love into the world. If of course, that doesn't sound interesting to you, if being truly virtuous is against your whims, then you may leave with the others. However, I find that your ability to be introspective to be one suited to our cause." A gentle smile coaxes itself upon the Czech's lips, a softening of his rather stoic features of before. A bit of compassion thrown the man's way.
Caelum is gifted with an amused smile, "Do let me know if they return and they hurt anyone. I would be happy to chuck them into the clinic for a mental examination. For quite a long while too."
This intense encounter between a demigod, a vampire, and three inexperienced vampite hunters is reaching its zenith, and each member of trio is deeply affected by the ominous presence of Caelum. Feeling the weight of Caelum's arm over his shoulder, Michael struggles internally with the fear caused by that outwardly friendly gesture that is laden with a heavy, unspoken threat. Those fangs are more than just a stark reminder of the danger lurking so casually beside him, and in a voice that is tainted with an underlying notes of urgency, Michael responds after giving a subtle nod to his companions. They are all young, after all, and new to the vampire hunting game, and still have much to learn. It is likely they will not ever forget the predatory gaze of the vampire here with them tonight. Kyle puts away his dagger. "Thank you for the... discussion," he manages, looking down at the tabletop as he moves to rise, so long as Caelum's buddy-buddy hold allows him to do so. Michael is driven by a primal fear, and he does not try to argue with Viktorin's claim on Thomas for the moment. His mind is overwhelmed with the knowledge that the three must reconsider their mission. As for Thomas, he's also terrified of Caelum, casting nervous glances his way until Viktorin is pointing him out. "Me?" the young man asks confusedly. "I -- I'd like to know more," gets stuttered out in an admission that is heavily tinged with apprehension and also, somehow, with genuine interest. He's signaled his willingness to engage further with the Orderite.
Of course they're allowed to leave. To stand, to move away. Caelum is a happy camper, the most amiable there could ever be. The charade of a friendy get-together is kept in how he taunts Michael still, ruffles the man's hair from his side, bumps him with his shoulder with a palm. Friendly banter, casual 'bros being bros'. At least, to others in the cafe-bookstore. To Michael, it is more than that. It's the testing bumps and nudges of a shark in the water, the rough-play of a wolf, the swarm of a bat. Expertly veiled beneath a visage of normalcy.
Whereas Viktorin promises safety, a harbor, and bloodless terms of separation - there is no doubt in his eyes that this vampire, watching all three, will not forget about them, either - and he is most definetly the sort that caters to beliefs like Viktorin's. "I'll *see you later*, leave you to it." Two digits tip over his brow in bid adieu. Casual, yes, but ominous to hear that from the last person you /want/ to see, who is currently disengaging, heading back to his discarded, cold cup of coffee at the counter.
Viktorin gestures towards Michael and Kyle. "Leave my sight then, please. Those who bring violence and bloodshed to Haven will not find a warm welcome from I, or my fellows." He gives a small nod of appreciation towards Caelum, telling them, "Thank you for your assistance," before continuing to speak with Thomas. Murmuring softly, the dusky thing states, "I am in charge of the Shields, a portion of the Order... Those who protect. The Order is a society based upon three tenets, that which I have spoke of. Peace, Equality, Love. That is what we fight for. We do not kill, and we prefer to offer a path away from the darkness and corruption that one can tread upon." Humming softly, he produces his phone, and then tells the man, "If you're still interested, I can hand you off to one of our members, and hopefully, she'll send you back to me."
The rogue vampire waves off over his shoulder. Already sitting with his back turned to them. Caelum entertains that cold cup of coffee in his relative silence, and as if nothing at all happened, like all is right in the world once more - he's leant slightly forward on the counter. Not even a beat since he's sat down, but he's in an animated conversation with the barista, hushed as it is, one that leaves her all giggle and smiles, and him with a half-grin of his own. If its anything to pick up on, its over books - one that she brings out behind the counter. An order, wrapped up in cellophane paper like a gift, finally in his hands. A *very* frequent, avid patron here, indeed.
Maybe, she's just the next victim. Who's to say whether this display is of genuine humanity in something the ones at his back considers lifeless and cold - or just a perfect mask, assuming his warm-bodied role once again to continue the possible string of murders that may have lead them to think there is a serial vampire out on the loose. Them, and others.
What a casual camaraderie charade it is that Caelum keeps up, and Michael feels every little nudge and bump as a clear as day assertion of dominance, well aware of the peril that lurks beneath the seemingly innocuous gestures. This man can feel the subtle, but very unmistakable threats, yet he manages a stiff nod and a forced, thin smile. The playful ruffling of his hair sends a chill right down his spine. "Yeah, see you," Michael responds to both Caelum and Viktorin, unable to mask his tension and making a swift departure. Kyle had got to experience the full brunt of Caelum's mesmerizing presence earlier, and he also wastes no time in making his exit. That earlier indecision has been entirely replaced by a resolute desire to escape what now feels like an oppressive atmosphere, and he is more certainly rethinking his life's choices. He avoids making eye contact with Caelum and Viktorin, taking quick steps out the door. Thomas is not exactly comfy here, but his curiosity has gotten the best of him, searching for his purpose, and he also has that poetic nature about his thought processes that Michael simply cannot handle, but Viktorin seems to /get/ him. "That sounds exactly like the kind of purpose I've been searching for." His eyes reflect the sincere interest he has, even amidst the terror that resides in his gaze, especially each time he glances over at Caelum. He continues to talk with Viktorin for as long as he is allowed, arranging to learn more about the membership with one of the factions.
With the help of Caelum, Viktorin has managed to escape any truly harmful experience at the hands of the young vampire hunters, and instead may have found a friend who can gush idealistic views and relay thoughts through poetry and philosophy.