After idle chitchat between the four us, Anthony slowed the van’s pace, approaching one of the four-leveled dwellings on the property, somewhat outback behind the manor, more like off to the side. Another building of the same gray stone stood adjacent, maybe ten, or fifteen minutes walking distance. Again, connecting like branches of a tree, were gravel pathways leading to the different dwellings, and the green landscaping graced the entire property.
“Let’s get you to your rooms, shall we?” Anthony stated.
“Oh please, I bet you would.” Sarah rolled her eyes.
Frowning, I wondered what she meant. Looking at my mom, she shrugged, not wanting to be caught in the middle of their tension.
Parking the van, I looked out through the windshield and I was surprised to see Jonathan standing near the dwelling by the gated entrance leading to the grand front door, strangely fiddling with a Rubik’s cube. I grinned, thinking they weren’t around anymore in this era but then I wondered, how did he get here so fast?
“How did he get here so fast?” Lady D questioned softly.
Shrugging, looking around thinking there was another craft he might have used, I saw nothing.
“Since he is a pureblood, maybe, quite possibly, he portal jumped?” I answered telepathically.
Climbing out of the van, Anthony quickly veered around to the back, unloading the women’s luggage and trunk. Looking in Jonathan’s direction, he shook his head. Carrying the bags and pulling the trunk toward the door, he leaned in rasping,
“Show off.”
Jonathan said nothing, offering a faint smirk.
Once both Freya and Zanzabarr were out of the van, both my mom and I followed Anthony and Jonathan inside, through the doors. Entering the first level of the dwelling, a spacious, comfortable lounge greeted you with a long sectional around the curve of one side, and couches and chairs on the other. A massive circular stone fire-pit sat in the center, creating such a warm, soothing environment, covered with an iron mesh dome providing protection from spitting embers. Near the back of the first floor was a medium-sized kitchen where residents scattered about, some paused watching as Anthony led two women through the lounge. Even to the right, was a laundry room where residents returned with baskets full of dry clothes and bedding.
Anthony and Jonathan continued leading the women across the lounge to the left, where a single staircase led upstairs to the next level, however, five rooms were situated near the stairs at the back of the dwelling, close to the kitchen, specifically for senior citizens or those with any, or all, physical disabilities that prevented them access upstairs. It was a very considerate layout. Anthony escorted Lady D to her room, H4 while Jonathan and Sarah led her daughter upstairs to her room, H19, on the fourth level but before she disappeared after Jonathan and Sarah, Lady D called out to her, begging her to behave and to be nice.
Sending my mom a reassuring but mischievous grin, I waved.
“Uh-oh.” Lady D mumbled under her breath.
All the balcony doors of the rooms, faced the landscaping of various views on all sides, but depended on the rooms’ location.
Walking alongside her, Sarah began friendly conversation, as she attempted to avoid Zanzabarr who slowly walked ahead.
“So, where are you from and…what are you? You didn’t seem to answer on the way here.” she looked at her with wide blue eyes full of curiosity, “Demon, Shayd, or something else?”
I stopped, looking at her confused.
“Originally, we’re from the States but moved here to the U.K. and to the Great City, living there for five years. My mom’s a mortal-magical practitioner and I’m a half-breed, and I am pretty sure that’s clear since it’s been mentioned several times now. And wait a minute, what the hell does something else mean?” I wondered, “What else is there, half-breed?” I sensed her own genes were mixed.
“Nevermind, just a joke.” she ignored her inquiry, “I’m a wee bit mental.” she smiled, looking away, hoping to dismiss the conversation.
“YOU SAID IT, NOT ME.” I thought then glanced ahead, hearing Jonathan release a concealed chuckle through a hard snort. Every time he glanced back, Zanzabarr released a deep growl, “You’re antagonizing him.” I advised.
“Antagonizing HIM?! But I’m not doing anything!” Jonathan complained softly.
“You’re looking at him, Jonathan. That’s doing something.” I teased softly.
Jonathan chuckled lightly.
“Good one.” he smiled, “Now, let’s start the tour. There are…” he continued, beginning to explain there were twelve rooms on each floor, totaling thirty-six rooms in all, except for this dwelling, having five extra downstairs, “The other two are the same, minus the extra suites.” he finished.
“Wow.” I nodded, looking up and down the hall.
The first level windows stretched straight across the front of each dwelling, providing adequate light. Whoever it was that configured this estate knew exactly how they wanted it in the grand architectural representation. Wide hallways led to the rooms, creating a dorm-like atmosphere with windows at the end near the next staircase, leading upstairs in a zigzag-like pattern on opposite ends, providing a sense of security. Each of the rooms had Oak wood doors with arched frames and the numbers made of black iron nailed deeply into the wood, with iron hinges, ring-like door knockers and brass handles. There was even an old-fashioned peephole window situated above the room number, opening from the inside. For lighting, wall lamps, complimented the architecture, illuminating the halls perfectly.
Continuing to follow Jonathan up the stairs to the fourth level, I breathed deeply for it was definitely the workout, when Sarah grew ecstatic because my room was next door to hers, H20.
“Bloody hell, that’s fantastic!” her voice exclaimed, then she let out a soft, insipid giggle.
“Yeah, it’ll be a real party.” I slurred sarcastically, as I looked away, “IT’S TOO EARLY FOR THIS GIGGLE PARTY.” I thought, quickly rolling my eyes, “YZA…BE NICE.” I heard my mom’s words echo in my mind, “I AM BEING NICE.” I argued, “WHY I AM ARGUING WITH MYSELF?!”
Jonathan contained his chuckle, catching her natural and well directed sarcasm. He adored Sarah, but there were times that she annoyed him with her giggles.
“Quick question though?” I asked, looking at Jonathan, “Why is there iron everywhere, knowing there are Demons, Shayds and Wraiths on the island? I mean…” I looked around, “it’s everywhere.”
“Yeah, I know.” he complained with a frown, “And I really…” he paused, turning to her and Sarah, looking at them, “don’t know, that’s something you’ll have to ask Marxus, but you’re right though, never thought about it like that before and oh, by the way, there are no Shayds here. Marxus doesn’t allow them on the island.”
“So it’s not a zoo for all misfits.” I mocked.
“What?”
“Nothing, nevermind.” I smiled.
Anthony left Lady D’s trunk and bags within the door, then turned to her, handing the woman her room key. He offered that if she needed anything, she shouldn’t hesitate to let him know.
“Count on it.” Lady D smiled.
Flashing a flirtatious, but innocent wink, he nodded then took steps back before turning away, heading up the stairs.
Lady D peeked her head around the door frame, watching as he strolled toward the stairs and as he did, she fanned herself with thoughts running through her mind, then she finally felt the pressure of having to use the restroom. Making the swift dash across the room, of which she paid no attention to the decor and furnishings, she let out a deep sigh.
“Ah, finally.” her voice echoed in the bathroom. Afterwards, she released Freya from her carrier, watching as the small cat cautiously walked around before retreating under the large and enticing bed.
Anthony made his way up the stairs, smiling at women who emerged from their rooms, swooning as he passed by, making sure the young woman had found her room. Greeting Sarah and Jonathan, who stood in the hall, he watched as she pushed her luggage bags aside through the door behind her large black wolf, then waited in the hall, until she turned to face them.
My eyes quickly scanned the room then turned, surprised to see Anthony standing between Jonathan and Sarah. Where did he come from so fast?
As he leaned against the doorway, he stared with his intense dark eyes, offering to show her around the estate once she settled in.
Catching the scent of his delicious cologne, and attracted to his dangerously sexy smirk, I cleared my throat, declining the offer because despite his charm and looks, that was the oldest pickup line in the book.
“As charming as that sounds, and as flattered as I am, I will have to say no at the moment, but thank you.” I appreciated the offer.
“No worries.” he smiled, “I’m around, if you change your mind.” he winked, “Anthony Giovanni at your service.” he gave an elegant bow.
“I’m sure you are.” I hinted for him to go away, because I just got here on the island, I didn’t know anything about anyone, so the last thing I was going to do, was just jump into some wild fling-romance just because he was pretty, but biting my lips, I was tempted from the start.
Jonathan and Sarah waited for Anthony to walk away before they too, dispersed the hall, stating they’d catch me later. As Anthony walked between them, I couldn’t help it, I couldn’t help but admire Anthony because he was what he was, a god damn gorgeous man. However, the three of them strolled the hall with tension between them, I could hear their faint voices arguing, with Sarah breaking up their spat in the middle. Paying no further attention, I turned, entering the suite then closed the door.
Raising my gaze, my mouth was completely agape. Someone beautifully designed the room in a Hotel-like suite layout with a homey vibe and extremely spacious, housing at least eight people, and still having adequate space to move about. A large bed to the right of the door and room, was covered in Gothic black and red bedding with two small end tables, the one closest to the door had a Gothic lamp set upon it. Laying the room key on the table, I looked across the room, where a medium fireplace was adjacent the bed, and veering toward the left of the room, along the wall, was a large Oak wardrobe and dresser for my clothing. Two large black Gothic wing-back chairs and a small table sat before a set of double doors with vertical shutters hiding the colored glass panels. I could see the sun trying to peek through the shutter slots and the red sheer curtains hanging from iron drapery rods above the doors. My boots softly tapped against the sleek Oak floors with Persian rugs placed before the fireplace and entryway. There was a large fake plant in the corner of the room on the other side of the bed, what kind it was, I don’t know but it was planted in a large red pot. I entered the bathroom, with walls and floors made of a stone-like tiling with Porcelain appliances and fixtures. Turning around, Zanzabarr sniffed around the large Roman tub near a tall glass shower stall.
“Wait, hold on…” I rushed back into the room, retrieving a bag of extra large piddle pads. Returning to the bathroom, I quickly laid them on the floor near the tub and taking steps back, he claimed his potty place, “That’s my good boy.” I praised then folded the pads, throwing them in the large bin near the toilet. Standing in the doorway, taking in the beauty of the room, I slowly approached the patio doors, opening the shutters and curtains. I closed my eyes for the afternoon sun shone through the colored glass like lasers, then pulling the doors inward, I was led outside onto the balcony that had a single table and chair in the corner. Leaning my gloved hands on the iron railing with elaborate scroll work, I overlooked the landscape, and across the way, rear of the manor, was the third housing dwelling. Taking deep breaths of the fresh air with lingering scents of rain, I felt safe. Turning around back to the room behind me, I smiled then ran, jumping onto the bed, sinking into its feather mattress and pillows contouring my body with softness and luxury, “Wow.” I moaned into one of the pillows, because I couldn’t feel the weight of my body.
Zanzabarr jumped onto the bed, alongside her, enjoying the comfort as well. Laying close to her, they laid there for what felt like forever, before falling asleep, taking a quick nap. I didn’t know how long I slept, but stretching and waking up, I climbed off the bed. Going into the bathroom, splashing my face with cold water, I left turning out the light, then began unpacking my clothes, hiding them away in the wardrobe and dresser. However, the clothes I possessed, didn’t even fill the wardrobe or the drawers of the dresser.
“I need to go shopping, I need stuff.” I said to myself then turned to Zanzabarr, “Yes, and stuff for you too.” I grew a warm smile, watching as the large wolf acted like a puppy, rolling around on the thick blanket. After feeding him, I left, venturing downstairs to check on my mom, “Hello.” I greeted a few passing residents but they kept their heads low as if not allowed to, or not wanting to, talk to strangers, “Okay then.” I mumbled. Arriving at my mom’s room, her door was left open ajar so I gave a gentle knock.
Standing behind the doors of her wardrobe, she heard the soft knock. Peeking her head around the left door, she called out,
“Come in!” she waited, watching as her daughter slowly took steps inside, looking around, “Hi, sweetheart.” she smiled, “Unpacked already?”
“I didn’t have much.” I answered, “And by the looks of things here, I’ll say you’re not unpacked yet either.”
“Well, I couldn’t help myself, taking nap in that heavenly bed. After that long ride across land and sea, it felt like a cloud.”
“Tell me about it, I napped too.” I walked over, sitting on her bed next to Freya. Picking her up, holding her affectionately, she started purring loudly, “Hello, baby girl.” I said softly, “Oh…” she let out a few meows as if she were hungry, “okay, go on.” I kissed her cheek, then put her down, watching as the small feline rushed toward her food and water bowls, “So what do you think of this place?” I studied her room curiously.
“I don’t know, really. I mean, it’s hard to say.” Lady D paused, turning to one of the chairs, sitting slowly, “But it gives off a positive energy and don’t get me started on the magic of this place. The tingling vibes are incredible.”
“Just keep your tingling vibes to yourself.” I teased, then let out a soft chuckle, “But yes, the magic everywhere just…well, leaves me with tingling vibes all over.” I closed my eyes.
Lady D looked at her daughter, one she wouldn’t have been able to describe, but making eye contact with her, the faint grin was a clean giveaway.
“You know what I mean.” I tossed one of the pillows at her.
“I know, I know.” she caught the pillow, placing it next to her chair, “But what do you think of the schemes, ironic don’t you think?” she paused, observing the color pallets of her room were splashes of shades of purple and green, “I mean, how did they know our favorite color combinations?” she looked at her daughter, “What were your colors?” she realized that was a silly question, “Let me guess, black and red.”
“Precisely, and with the exact style of furniture we like too.” I answered suspiciously.
“Settled in already, I see. Excellent.” a man’s voice spoke from the doorway of Lady D’s room, “Are you finding everything to your liking so far?” his presence startled Freya, who ran to hide under Lady D’s bed, releasing loud meows and hisses.
Turning toward the door, there stood Marxus with his hands clasped behind his back, and his pocket watch hanging from his vest pocket.
“Yes, thank you.” Lady D smiled, slowly standing with her daughter’s help.
“Yes.” I looked at him quickly, before breaking my gaze.
“I’m pleased to hear it.” Marxus glanced around the woman’s room, “Lovely colors, Lady D. Very Earthy and eclectic.”
“Indeed.” she answered, looking around once more.
“About that.” I wondered, “How does that trick work?”
“Trick?” Marxus tilted his head, looking at the young woman.
“This has to be some kind of trick.” I wondered, “Because it’s way too accurate and precise, even down to the style of our bedding.”
“I assure you half-breed, that it is not a trick.” Marxus’ voice became blunt, “Just think of this place as a living thing, so the rooms are no different. They sense what’s in your best taste and accommodate the setting to the specific style in hopes it provides more of a comforting environment that is personally designed just for you. Or anyone.” he looked deep into her dark, squinting eyes.
“Well, it’s amazing.” Lady D muttered.
“Yes it is, but I’m sure this place has more secrets you want us to believe.” I smiled sarcastically, “Mr. Castillion.”
“Indeed it does, and in time, you will come to learn all about them, just as everyone else here has. Now, I’m sure the two of you must be famished, yes? They’ll be serving early dinner in the manor’s dining hall in an…” he paused, removing the pocket watch reading the time 4:06pm, “hour and a half. We would love to have you for dinner, and again, I am pleased to hear you find everything to your liking.” he grinned with a nod, “If you will excuse me, ladies…” he backed away, stepping aside, then disappeared from view.
I rushed to the doorway, hoping to see the tail end of him through the lounge doors, but he was completely gone. Just like his disappearance in the Whitehaven bookshop. Turning to my mom, I knew she was thinking all of the same things that were running through my mind.
“He didn’t mean it the way it sounded right?” Lady D glanced at her daughter, biting her lower lip, “About having both of for dinner?”
I walked over, sitting in one of the chairs, remaining silent. I didn’t know what to say, or what to expect, because we were on an island that’s nowhere on any maps, claiming to be some place where they don’t eat people but yet, having the Master say something unsettling such as that last remark? I felt a hard lump in my throat.
“He couldn’t have.” I pondered, “Nah, he couldn’t. Could he?” I looked at my mom innocently, with wide curious eyes in a way that softened her heart.
“Yza, sweetheart, this whole journey so far has been stranger than anything we’ve experienced before, and we know there are things that far beyond our comprehension. All we can do, is go with the flow of things and to just see what happens.” she shifted in place, “But I would like to know who or what he is, because he just appears out of thin air and then the next moment, POOF, he’s just gone.” she snapped her fingers, “Oh, and if they do have us for dinner, I’m pretty sure they’ll find me a little chewy.”
“Or juicy and tender.” I teased.
“That’s not funny!” Lady D tossed a pillow at her.
“Well…” I continued, changing the subject of being eaten, “in the bookshop he claimed to have never visited, I had sensed Demon but now, he’s an Immortal and there’s no way you change from one to the next, so I’ll just say that he’s…” I sighed softly, “Marxus Castillion, the MASTER of this place, the Isla de Castillón.” I made the emphasis on the Spanish pronunciation.
“That doesn’t say much.” Lady D wondered.
“No it doesn’t.” I stood, “Anyway, need help unpacking?”
“No, sweetheart, I’m fine.” she smiled, “You know I have a particular way of placing things.” she appreciated the offer.
“Mommy, this is me remember, I organize my Cheetos before eating them, so I get it.” I joked truthfully.
“How can I forget?” Lady D smiled, “Besides, I’m still trying to figure out what goes where.”
“You know what goes where.” I teased, approaching the door, “And lock your door, hmm? You wouldn’t want anymore unexpected guests, like Anthony.”
“Oh, he’s more than welcome.” Lady D quickly turned to her.
“Maybe a little.”
“Smarta**!” Lady D hollered lovingly, then shook her head mumbling while she continued putting her clothes away, “My daughter.” she turned, gently chasing Freya off one of the next dresses waiting to be hung, “Oh no, no, no…” she had to gently pull the feline’s groomed nails off the delicate fabric.
Climbing the stairs, I returned to my room. The time, 5:30pm had rapidly approached. Making sure Zanzabarr had enough food, water, and piddle pads by the tub until I could walk him later, I ventured downstairs in a rush of people emerging from their rooms. Stepping off the last step, I looked to my left where my mom stood engaging in a brief conversation that ended quickly upon my approach.
“Who was that?” I asked.
“I don’t know, I didn’t get their names, but they were just offering their welcome to the island speech.” she replied, “Are you ready?”
“Yes, are you?”
“I’m waiting for you, aren’t I?” Lady D pinched her daughter, “Now come on…my little appetizer.”
I laughed, then rubbed the pinch spot on my side. Looping my arm though hers, we exited the dwelling where residents of mixed-ethnic backgrounds rushed from behind and around us, all heading toward the manor. Taking the slow walk that would averagely take eight-to-ten minutes, took both my mom and I, fifteen-to-twenty because of the weather that was not being kind to my mom’s bones, affecting her weakened, arthritic knees. Holding onto her, I made sure she watched her footing on the slippery gravel walkway, however, there was a moment where I was pulled away from her, separated by the rush and with everyone talking and laughing loudly, I wasn’t sure if my mom could hear me calling for her verbally, so I pleaded telepathically.
“Excuse me!” I pushed my way through until I broke free of the clustering individuals. Scanning through the crowd of men and women looking like background cast of a movie, all dressed in their steampunk costumes of leather, buckles, studs, there was my mom trying to keep her balance as people rudely pushed past her, “Hey!” I shouted, watching as one of the men brushed her shoulder forward, almost causing her to lose her footing. Leering after the man, he was a rude and an inconsiderate a**hole! Running over, gently pulling her aside out of the way off the path and into the cropped grass, loudly I hollered after him; he quickly turned, looking in my direction. Sneering at him, I cursed under my breath and as he walked ahead, the laces of his leather boots untied and wrapped around his ankles, tripping him forward, “Take that up the a** you…”
“Yza, sweetheart, calm down.” Lady D urged, “Remember, we are newcomers here, and we don’t need you steaming in front of everyone.” she softly warned, “Please, calm down and take it easy on the Telekinesis.”
Looking at her, taking deep breaths, I apologized then took a moment to check her, making sure she wasn’t injured.
“I’m fine.” she reassured.
“Excuse me, are you all right?” an older man with groomed gray hair tied back, inquired as he approached the women. His height was striking and dark style of dress, with the few silver rings on his fingers, said he was a warlock.
“Yes, thank you Sir.” I nodded, sensing his powerful level 4 pureblood Demon ranking.
“Thank you.” Lady D appreciated the man’s concern, gently pulling her arm away from his grip that prevented her from falling.
“It’s no fault of theirs, really.” he added.
“And I guess hearing her holler out was just for the sake of it then, huh?” I mocked bluntly, looking around.
“I’m fine, really.” Lady D insisted, “Thank you again, Sir.”
The man nodded, then continued on ahead of the women, but kept glancing back here and there before losing interest.
“Are you sure you’re okay?” I worried.
“Ask me that later when the weather takes its hold on me.” she muttered softly, “Getting old is not fun, enjoy the time of your youth, but if I get pushed one more time, it won’t be you that starts something.” she huffed then glanced around, and searched for her cane which her daughter handed to her.
Shaking my head, I knew she meant that humorously.
“That man though, what was he?” Lady D leaned in.
“Demon.” I answered, “Pureblood too.”
Continuing our stroll toward the manor in slow strides, we avoided the crowd ahead while taking in the manor’s tall and grand magnificence, and even under the early evening sky, the outer structure was brightly lit with additional building light fixtures, and Victorian street lamps along the walkways.
Everyone strolled through the manor’s side gate when there were a few residents that pointed toward a small group of six boisterous men heading toward the manor from their point of direction, seeming to have come from the dwelling the near the large garage. Walking head leading the group, was the tall red-haired man, Leonus Lancaster, we met upon our blunt arrival. Anyone could see the men were intoxicated from the heavy liquor as one carried a half empty bottle of J- Daniels.
Looking at each other, then back toward the men, you would think they belonged to a motorcycle gang but with a far more grunge-punk flair. Pushing others out of the way as they entered the manor, the sight left both of us thinking words we didn’t want to say aloud. Exchanging another look, we continued on inside when a small group of other seniors had mentioned there was another entrance leading inside with a ramp, making the walk around the manor shorter and a bit more accessible.
“You go.” I urged my mom gently, “I’ll go with the others.”
“Okay, be careful.” she answered.
“Will do.” I smiled. Watching as she turned, approaching the other seniors, she was safe in their company before they all disappeared through the side door of the manor. Suddenly, I sensed a presence behind me, and turning around quickly, two young Irish girls, Margaret of 17 and Belle of 12, stood with friendly smiles.
“OH, GEEZ.” I thought, “MORE HAPPY SMILES.” I flicked my left eyebrow.
“Greetings.” Margaret said cheerfully.
“Hello.” I replied calmly.
“You’re new, yes?” Belle’s sweet voice squeaked.
“Um, yes.” I nodded, “What gave me away?”
“We’ve never seen you here before.” Belle seemed confused by her reply.
“She meant that sarcastically, Belle.” Margaret added.
“Sorry.” I grinned, “Habit.”
“It’s all right.” Belle accepted the apology, “Want to come in with us?” she walked over, standing next to her, while her sister stood on the other side.
“Sure.” I glanced at the sisters that looked a lot alike.
“Our mum is over there.” Margaret pointed toward the side entrance offering a quick wave before retreating inside, “But we can introduce you to her later.”
“Okay.” I felt awkward.
Entering the manor’s entrance foyer, it was just utterly and absolutely breathtaking! Spanish and Persian rugs covered the highly polished dark onyx Oak wood floors and the walls of the same wood, displayed paintings of various scenes, while tall metal suits of armor stood guard by the door like sentinels, I just waited for them to come to life. A large circular, polished table of pure marble sat in the center with an elaborate vase filled with beautiful red and white roses with rare black ones that were tucked in between, adding a perfect balance of color. To the left, was a spacious lounge with black leather furnishings, grand fireplace that appeared to take up most of the space with its stone walls and deep-set fire pit, and four large windows overlooking the grounds, courtyard and fountain outside, and the Oak walls seemed to continue throughout the manor.
Hanging from the hall’s arched ceiling, was a grand, crystal chandelier with droplets and antique fixtures. Along the walls, lamps illuminated the interior without damaging the panels. Glancing to my right was the dining hall, where the aroma of delicious scented food greeted you from their plates and the kitchen. Looking ahead, along the wall past the large dining hall, was a staircase with its intricate black steel, looking like wrought iron, railing swirling in fancy loops and curves, following the shape of the stairs curving upward to the second floor. Runners followed each step in an elegant transition between fabric and wood. Ground level, beneath the stairs adjacent from the foyer, were a set of double glass doors leading out into an enclosed atrium because I could see plant leaves as residents came and went. Plus, the scent of the soil created a pleasant-Earthy fragrance as the doors opened.
Taking steps forward, making sure I wasn’t in the way of the others coming in behind me, I focused ahead, watching as my mom exited through those doors.
“There you are, I was worried.” I rushed toward her.
“I couldn’t help myself, you should see the atrium, it’s just so beautiful and tranquil with so many plants mixed together, I didn’t think it was possible to have most of them with the climate.” Lady D glanced around the foyer where she noticed, hanging in specifically prepared places, were paintings of men and women, “Ancestors maybe? Or the people that built this place?”
“Maybe, but if they start talking, I’m out.” I observed, as we examined them closely, “That’s weird.” I frowned, because they were so life like, painted in colored oils, “And that?” I noticed two maps hanging in antique frames near the front doors, “Cool.” I admired the two sketches of the manor in the two different stages of what it once was, to what it is now.
Abruptly, we turned our attention toward the lounge behind us, hearing a boisterous voice in a drunken stupor, slur his argument with Marxus. Not wanting to make it obvious, and knowing it had nothing to do with us, we curiously stood on the first two steps of the staircase, gazing into a large mirror that reflected the scene taking place behind us. Quietly and carefully, we sat on the steps, leaning against the rail, hiding ourselves from view while we listened and watched.
“I told you Leonus…that you are not allowed to bring your drunkenness here, not when the residents are gathered!” the Spaniard shouted, “You will not step foot into the dining hall, not like this.” he paused, allowing stragglers to pass through, rushing toward the dining hall. Afterwards, Marxus listened as Leonus retaliated in slurring words, “You have done this several times Leonus, but…” he fumed with anger, “but you never listen and I am done telling you over and over! Now, the gates are closing in an hour, so you have your choice.” he tugged at the hem of his vest, “Either you can spend another night behind these walls per your usual habit, spend the night in one of the cells, again, or go home to your family but I suggest you make your choice quickly.” he took steps toward the 6’6 Scotsman, “Because I will not have you disturb the mortals, supernaturals and paranormals with your rantings and your…” he paused, mumbling the word bullsh*t in his Spanish tongue, frustratingly waving his hand toward the man, “porquería!”
Looking at each other, my mom and I wondered.
“If you’re mortal and I’m a half-breed, and there are Demons on the island, what are the supernaturals and paranormals?” I asked telepathically.
“I’m telling you right here, right now, if there are creatures from the Black Lagoon, or they’re serving Soylent Green for dinner, I’m swimming back to the mainland.” Lady D replied sarcastically, yet humorously, looking into her daughter’s wide, dark eyes, “Oh yeah, I said it.” she finished with a nod.
Squinting, I said nothing, then looked away shaking my head, with a smile that widened.
“B.L.S.” I mumbled over my shoulder.
“K.K.B.” Lady D muttered.
Leonus glared at the Immortal man standing calmly in front of him, replying as he stepped forward, with his rolling syllables of his Scottish tongue and deep voice.
“We’re hungry, and we’re going to eat, so you tell me what’s on the menu for tonight, hmm? Maybe you?” he eyed Marxus up and down, “How about that, you miserable old man?” he let out a guttural laugh that brought forth his stale breath of whiskey and tobacco.
Pointing a finger intimidatingly at the Scotsman, Marxus took a single step forward.
“Don’t you dare threaten me, Leonus Lancaster. You know better. Now you are going to listen to me, because I will not say again. You ARE NOT allowed to step foot into the dining hall, where your pack of mutts can make fools of yourselves, or worse. Do you remember the last event and the havoc your kind caused?!” he pressed a finger against the man’s shoulder, “So this is what will happen, I will have the cooks bring you food, and then you can leave and go back to the your den or whatever the hell it is your kind calls it! You know how I feel about you bringing this drunken stupor onto the premises and yet you do it anyway.” he stood tall, looking deep into the man’s blue eyes with his own intense Hazel-brown gaze, “I have given you your options, surely I don’t have to repeat them? The only reason why I have been so…” he paused a moment, feeling frustrated by the argument, “so lenient, is for the sake of Heather and your sons, that is all!”
“Yeah, yeah, blah-blah-blah, just get the food so we can the f*ck out of here!” Leonus boasted, stumbling in place, then looking at Marxus he growled, “WHAT?! CAN’T I SPEAK OUT LOUD, OR IS THAT A BLOODY CRIME AROUND HERE?!” he raged, then went on slurring a string of words in his Scottish tongue that filled Marxus with anger, for the Immortal perfectly understood the meaning.
Abruptly, the front doors swung open, briefly attracting the attention of both myself and my mom, but no one stepped through. We knew it must have been a magical force of some unknown origins, pushing them open with such ease. Both of us felt as if something grew angry with Leonus’ disrespectful actions and words. Suddenly, a loud crash emanated from the lounge and turning our heads toward the room, Leonus’ tall, large bulk, was thrown across the lounge, pounding against the wall, the thud was unpleasant. Watching as the Scotsman pushed himself to his feet, grabbing onto the wall nearby, he groaned deeply, shaking his head. Looking at one another, knowing it wasn’t our place to observe a moment longer, we quietly stepped off the steps, entering the dining hall.
Hearing the faint echo of women’s heels tapping across the surface of the wood, Marxus turned, watching as shadows of two women stretched across the foyer’s floor. Growing a deep frown momentarily, he refocused his attention upon Leonus who stood, leering in his direction. Removing a phone from his pocket, Marxus made a call.
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