“Jonathan and family,” the count said, addressing the room, his velvet, accented voice carrying. “It is good to have you all here, in the safety of my castle.” There was a quality to it, an inaudible timbre that lent it an almost irresistible air. It drew the attention of those around, called to them, bit at their senses. For most men, being around the count was mildly terrifying: something about the hind brain recognizing a predator too ancient, too vast to make war with. For most women, the man was a gravity well of experience tempered with power. Illiana’s attentions were palpable on the count’s skin and he could feel her fervor. The seeds he had planted deep within her mind from afar were bearing fruit quickly.<br/><br/>A weak mind. Ah, well, perhaps he would do something with her. Perhaps not. He had tasks, after all.<br/><br/>Turning his attention fully to Jonathan, the count smiled his small, wickedly knowing smile, even as he shook his hand. “Sir, you are most welcome. You and yours. Please, please, have a seat and do not mind me. I often stay awake at odd hours and eat when my body commands it. I would not dream of being rude to you and yours, so please, by all means, eat your fill.” Many of the dishes had quite a bit of onion, though the cook apparently knew how to make it taste delicious, if somewhat spicy.<br/><br/>“And don’t mind my servants. Many of the men and women from the nearby village serve here. If you hear anything out of the ordinary or see someone in the halls, it is probably one of them.” He paused, moving to take a seat at the head of the table, movements a little stiff, as though he was mildly uncomfortable. All the talk of food had reminded him of his appetite. “They are so fastidious, those who serve me, that is.” And his smiling, dangerous eyes swerved across the table, from Jonathan and to his intended prey. No doubt Jonathan would have his arms full soon enough. And not with wife-flesh.<br/><br/>What a delicious thought; breaking an entire family like an egg, simply to get what he wanted!<br/>