[Action]

[what_is_a_man]

The weather report had predicted a partly cloudy and mild day in Everglade. However, somehow the predictions seemed to be wrong as thick storm clouds began covering the city mid-morning. By noon, it would be difficult to tell it was even day, as thick as the clouds that hung over the city were. At about 12:30, it would begin to rain. But this would not be a normal rain. Thick drops hit the ground, filling the air with a vaguely metallic smell, and anyone who had any sort of light source nearby would quickly identify why.

It was raining blood.

Meanwhile, in Everglade's abandoned church, music could be heard. A piano could be heard playing a rather haunting tune as the blood storm raged outside. Within, several small floating candles lit the place as what appeared to be an old man hunched over the restored piano, fingers dancing over the ivory. He wore a cape that spread over the floor behind him disappearing into the shadows and a few shapes could be seen moving through just beyond the reaches of the candle light.

Comments

[what_is_a_man]

[For a long moment, Vlad ignored Grell before starting to repeat the piece.]

Can I help you, Sutcliff?

[redcinemareel]

[It's been a very long time since anyone has addressed her that way. She opens her eyes slowly and straightens her posture a little.]

The lovely music brought me here, and I'm enjoying it, along with the weather. I won't need help with that, surely. However...

[Something about the atmosphere tells her that it may not be an opportune time to ask, but she really needed to. She taps a blood stand finger against her arm.]

There is a dire situation I'd like to discuss with you, yet this may not be the best time for it.

[what_is_a_man]

[For a moment, Dracula considers making his imminent invasion known, but decides against it.]

Speak your mind, Sutcliff.

[redcinemareel]

Very well. I'm sure you're aware of the incidents involving vampires being attacked and KILLED as of late. Most have taken place at one particular night club, which remains closed until the culprit is caught. A vampire group called Darkvale have a bitter rivalry with a group of zombies called Hollowed Union, but I suspect betrayal amongst Darkvale, or other vampires, is afoot.

What I'm asking is for assistance in helping to cease these senseless attacks. Darkvale doesn't like authority, which I can't fault them for, but I doubt they could refuse to speak to you.

[She shrugs lightly.]

Of course, you're under no obligation to help, yet I thought it pertinent to try and ask anyway.

[what_is_a_man]

The vampire here are not my concern. I do not hold dominion over nosferatu, nor do I care to. Castlevania is a sanctuary for all creatures of the night, vampire and beastly alike. They are my flock, and those outside my walls are of little concern to me.

I have other matters to attend to, however if you have questions I will answer them.

[redcinemareel]

[For Grell, that's actually surprising to hear.]

How interesting. So when you were speaking of your plans before, you never intended to spare them, as well?

[Being fair in war is actually respectable in her eyes.]

[what_is_a_man]

I would take no joy in it, but they make their interests known simply by residing outside Castlevania.

In war I would view them no differently than any other enemy.