The Dining Hall

I was so pissed off when I stormed out of the room I just started stomping around the place. It didn’t dawn on me that I had no idea where the hell I was going until it was too late. Everything looked the same to me, the stone lined hallways all had the same decor. Long red rugs ran down the halls providing a small amount of warmth to the space. The walls are lined with wide arch ways, weird suits of armer or doors in each one. Some of the walls have large paintings or floor to ceiling windows with matching red drapes. I notice small details that let me know I am not wandering around in circles. The scenery outside is a bit different and the paintings change but I feel like I am in a maze. I sweep my gaze from side to side trying to find an actual room but everywhere I look I feel like I am being watched. I am starting to feel like I am going crazy when I feel a presence behind me. I quickly turn around, but no one is there. I could have sworn someone was just behind me, I take a step back when I bump into a very hard surface.

Warm hands a clear contrast to my cold skin hold me steady, “You look lost little rabbit.” A hot husky voice danced in my ear.

My heart is pounding wildly in my chest begging to break free, “I am.” I admit, “The lord requested my presence in the dining hall.” I name dropped the lord in hopes it would scare this man off. “I have never been there before, so I didn’t know where to go.” Whoever was behind me didn’t flinch at the mention of the lord, that was probably not a good sign.

“His lord should know not to let his food wonder so freely.” He spoke while he licked the outer shell of my ear. “Someone else might try to take a bite,” I could feel the touch of his nose while he ran it down my throat lingering right over the vein.

An involuntary shudder ran through my body. Fuck me, I don’t even know this guy but the effect he is having on me makes me clinch my thighs. Without thinking I lean back into his body letting his scent wash over me. He smells so good I don’t know if I can walk away. He takes a deep breath, no doubt breathing me in. One of his hands finds its way to my hair wrapping it in a tight fist and I can hold back the small moan that escapes me. “Mmm...” He hummed, “It would seem them food wants to be eaten.”

Whatever trance I was in broke when I hear a female voice calling my name down the hall. “Lady Caroline?” I snapped my eyes open franticly taking in my surroundings, but no one was there. The maid that had called me comes around the corner and the look of relief that filled her face tells me she has been looking for me for a while. I hope she doesn't get into any trouble, that would make me feel even worse. “Lady Caroline are you alright?”

“Yes.” I state firmly, “what is it that you need?”

The look of worry in her eyes did not go away. “The Lord requested your presence, but when I went to your room, you weren't there.” She paused for a moment. “I thought you had gotten lost, so I came to find you.”

As I stepped into the dining room, the clatter of cutlery and the murmur of conversations washed over me. The room was alive with the energy of the evening meal; families gathered at the long tables, sharing stories of their day. I hesitated at the threshold, taking in the scene. I had no idea so many people lived here. The warm glow of the chandeliers cast a soft light on the diners, and the scent of roasted herbs and fresh bread filled the air.

I moved gracefully between the tables, my presence barely causing a ripple in the ongoing interactions. I could feel his eyes on me from across the room watching my every move. I slowly made my way to the lord's table. He never once broke eye contact with me.

“You kept me waiting,” He patted his knee. “Come and sit with me Caroline.”

I hesitated for a moment, but the look of impatience had me moving. I stood next to him when he patted his knee a little harder this time. “Do I have to sit on your knee?” I was already pissed off at him as it was.

He took a long swig of the amber liquid in his cup. “Now Caroline.” I rolled my eyes when he pulled me down into his lap. “If you're a good girl ill reward you.”

“I don’t want anything from you.” I bit my tongue, and the taste of blood filled my mouth.

He swiped a bit of blood from my lip with his thumb. Then he did something I was expecting. He placed his thumb in his mouth and sucked making a popping sound when he pulled it out, “You taste far better than expected, animae socius.” The small action had my jaw droping open and then he hit me with a grin that made my heart stop. "Besides, I have exactly what you want. You have questions." His long puase made me remember why I came here in the first place. "I have answers."

“Will you tell me what that means yet?” I know it is a different language but nothing else.

A simple shake of his head told me no, “Not yet love.”

“I didn’t know so many people lived here.” I looked around the room once more. Few eyes watched us but most minded their own business.

“Within these walls, I house many, each with our own stories and dreams. It is my honor to share this home with those who wish to be part of our way of life. The doors of this estate are open, not out of obligation, but from a genuine desire to offer comfort and sanctuary to those in need. Here, we stand together, supporting one another as equals. I am merely the guardian of this place, and it is the presence of each person that truly breathes life into it. Together, we build a home not just of stone and wood, but of trust, respect, and mutual support. All supernatural's are welcome here.” The slight brush of his fingers over my exposed skin has shiver running through my body.

In that moment I saw a new side of Lord Syndril, one I believed he doesn’t let most see. He cares about his people more than he lets on. It is extremely noble, an aspect I recognize from my father.