(Vanessa\All)<br/><br/>Hiato gave both Arya and Elizabeth small nods – Elizabeth’s deeper, and extended an arm for Vanessa to wind her arm through it. In a formal, practiced way, the short, trim man began leading Vanessa deeper into the astonishing house. Past the main greeting area were numerous branches and stairs – leading both up and down, with multiple landings visible. He took her back, through another grand room – this more of a “ball room” with a domed ceiling.<br/><br/>“This will be where our masked gala takes place on the night of All Hollow’s Eve, a week from now,” he explained in his soft voice. “If you choose to stay for the entire duration, we will make sure you are properly outfitted for that as well.” Maintaining contact, his warmth soothing – yet with a daring edge, Hiato led Vanessa toward a flight of stairs.<br/><br/>“Tell me, Miss Vanessa, what are your objectives here? The Master has his ideas, but we wish to hear your ambitions. How we can help, or perhaps steer you to obtain what you seek without placing yourself in undue…risk.” Hiato flashed her that mysterious and subtle smile of his, red flicking in his eyes as if he’d just spoken a rather terrible and sinister joke.<br/>