tushanshu | video; look who's coming to dinner

[This is so counter to everything Devin normally does, but there's no point in beating around the bush. Best to tell the truth and then let the chips fall where they may.]

It's not generally my custom to announce myself so formally, but it seems to be the norm around here, and I believe this will save me a great deal of time and energy. My name is Devin Parker, and I am a vampire. [He grins, revealing a slightly elongated set of canines to make his point.] If you're even remotely aware of any variety of my species, you're probably also aware that we need to consume blood to live. [There are stories about the essence-consuming ones, but none actually exist in his world.] Sadly, I'm no exception to this rule; however, I don't hurt people to get what I need, so you've no cause to worry that I'm going to jump out at you from a dark alleyway late at night. [The smirk turns a little wicked.] I can do that in daylight.

[He's joking. Probably.

Briefly, Devin's expression turns more serious.]

That said, I do still need what I need. Not often; and not in great quantities; and, if at all possible, not from the vein. Anyone willing to volunteer, I can provide further details.

[The vampire leans back in his chair, hands folded and smiling slyly again.]

Questions? Comments? Concerns?

[He's sure there will be many.]

Flat | Top-Level Comments Only

I think the most important question here is: do we get juice and cookies afterwards?

If that's what you consider a fair trade, certainly.

Well, that's what the Red Cross gives out. You gotta give an incentive, man!

Different people will have different requests, but if that's yours, yes, there will be juice and cookies of whatever variety you prefer. It's a small payment for a much larger gift.

Does this mean you're volunteering, or simply offering marketing advice?

Marketing advice alone, my man. I'm not about to part with my precious platelets, sorry.

[Hey, she's still wary of blood magic. Don't give away pieces of yourself.]

I figured I would allow people to make their own terms, but adequate supplies for replenishment would be part of the deal anyway. I wouldn't want anyone to pass out in the street.

No apologies necessary. I didn't expect an eager response.

Look, mate, I'm all for feeding the hungry and I'm not squeamish, it's just...I'm wary about giving away blood.

Besides, I'd probably taste weird. I'm all tough and gamy.

I wouldn't be partaking in muscle tissue, so I don't believe that would be a problem, hypothetically. More than likely, you'd be 'different' and not 'weird'. Everyone is a little unique.

I supposed we'll never find out. I do understand, really - it's not something to be done lightly, where magic is involved.

[Hopefully he's not allergic to anyone.]