[IC] The Rebel Vampire

[PopeAlessandros]

As the silence stretches on, Alexi is tempted to say something. He knows how much it hurts for one hard broken to hesitate in responding to an order. He's never sought to harm any of his servants, however this time it seems he may be causing pain inadvertently. 'Come on Joseph, you know I have always wanted your honest input. I may ask you to wait to give it at times, but I have never punished you for having them. Just say what's on your mind!' His bottom lips slides between his teeth, trying to stay quiet to let the man think, but just as he's about to say something, Joseph speaks up. His response however serves to confuse the younger Vandros and his confusion shows blatantly on his face as the elder vampire goes on.

'I've never seen him this uptight. It's like he's afraid of me. Am I not kind for a slave owner? I know many under my and my brother's care are happy to be here and not in a house where they are treated no better than furniture' He shifts uncomfortably aganinst the mantle, the light from the fire finding it's way to his face, giving the other a clear look at the confusion etched into it. “Joseph, you are acting strangely. Though I may now hold my father's position in this household, I have never once tried to step into his shoes. I know he was, quite often, a cruel bastard, but I would hope that I have never once treated you with anything less than the respect due your station.” He waves his hand around the room. “Everything I have done in and to this house is for the good of those that live in it. It almost frightens me when you talk about yourself like that. . .”

He lets out a sigh, his stance clearly communicating that he's not finished speaking though he takes a few moment to gather his thoughts. 'I do not have time to snap him out of this. I have to tell him what he needs to know then get to that meeting' He lets out another sigh and looks to the man across from him. “We will speak on that later Joseph however. At this time I understand that you want to keep me safe, and that makes me happy my old mentor.” A true smile sneaks across his face before becoming more serious. “Since I'm still not sure how much my dear brother told you let me just say this. The new potential slave is the leader of the rebellion. From now on you are to take over the upkeep of my room personally, and no one, not even Mois unless he has my permission, is allowed to enter my room save for myself, and you of course.”

Shifting his weight Alexi looks towards the curtain clad window. “I know no one will understand this, but I want to end it. I want this slavery shit to end, and even if this part of my plan fails, I will succeed none the less.” Alexi almost startles himself when the swear word slips from his lips. In his life sworn a grand total of eleven times including this one, but for each time it had been for a good reason, and this is no exception. 'It really is a huge steaming festering pile of shit, and deserves to be named such' His gaze wanders over to Joseph, curious what kind of reaction is going through his head at the sound of him cussing. He's always had a thing about such foul language, even going so far as to have the head slave make sure that all the other slave know not to swear around Master Alexi. So he can not help but be curious of what the other thinks about hearing such things from the usually more refined man.

[PopeAlessandros]

Accidental Double Post Deletion :P

[TShara]

Joseph was both shocked and elated by how strongly his Master felt regarding slavery, as evidenced by his cursing more than anything else. Sure, he had always known that Master Alexi was kind to his slaves, far more than his father had been. But to know that he truly wanted to end this oppression, he could not help but be incredibly surprised. When one coupled that with the evident confusion on the Vandros Lord's face, then perhaps.... perhaps he could dare to speak. Perhaps he could ask the questions that he had nearly allowed to let slip to Mois.

“You have never mistreated me, Master. But I have still always been afraid to admit my real thoughts on slavery. Such rebellion, even of the mind, is... difficult for me now. The truth is, I agree with you. Slavery of the magical races is absolutely wrong. There was a time when it served to adequately punish those of us who thought that we could kill humans with impunity due to our superior strength and senses. But those races and individuals who played no part in those horrors never deserved it, to say nothing of those who were born long after those atrocities ended. Owning another sentient being is immoral, and I am glad that you want to end it,” the head servant replied, speaking with strength in his voice, though he was still notably unable to meet Alexi's eyes.

“However, Master, how does kidnapping and enslaving the head of the Resistance lead to the end of slavery? Hard breaking is torture. There is no question about it. If a human did something like that to another, it would be considered torture. So why on Earth would oppressing and torturing another victim lead to the end of this oppression? You know that I will follow your orders until the end of time, but surely there is no way that peace can come from breaking everything that this individual is,” Joseph finally replied. Despite his relative calm, he still tensed up as he spoke. To say this to most of his Masters would have been tantamount to treason, but he had seen Master Alexi's confusion at the vampire's submission, his conviction in these beliefs. He had to believe that it was alright to say these things now, despite the increasingly refined and perfected submission chemicals and electronic controls that had berated his brain and body for the past six hundred years.

[PopeAlessandros]

A light feeling blossoms in the younger Vandros's chest as his once mentor begins speaking his mind so freely and completely. 'Or so one could assume by the strength in it.' A sweet smile comes to his lips, a fondness in his eyes that only one having so much faith in another can show. 'Even with such passion in his words, he can not seem to look at me. It's so cute!' Despite his rather random floaty thoughts Alexi does pay attention to what the other is saying and as he goes on he pushes off the mantle and walks closer to the elder. He can see the male tensing, his own words almost look to be frightening him, but Alexi ignore that for now. Instead he absorbs the words and the emotions behind them. When at last the vampire stops speaking Alexi lets out a sigh. 'I wish I could make him understand, but I doubt even if I explained it all that he would ever understand it. Not only that, I can see him trying anything in his power to stop me. I am so sorry my friend that I can not tell it all to you. I can not even tell all to my brother. I am alone in this'

Now standing less than an arm's length away from the seated male he reaches out and grasps his face in both hands, bringing his head up so he can meet his eyes. Even if the vampire looks away, it is good enough for Alexi as he begins speaking. “Thank you Joseph, for speaking your mind. And I'm glad you believe me when I say I want it all to end and that you will do as I command of you.” He smiles, a faint sadness somewhere deep in his gaze as he takes a soft breath. “Keep your beliefs, do not let them wane. You will need them, and so will I. You are my moral compass in this. Keep telling me, how what I am doing is wrong, about how bad all this really is for him. Do not let me forget it. You know I can lose myself like a child sometimes, even if I have left the tree climbing and skinned knees behind.” Leaning in he plants a gentle kiss on Joseph's forehead, like he use to do as a toddler, before releasing his face and stepping back.

“You are right, destroying everything of what makes someone who they are is no way to bring peace. Trust in my that I know that and am taking that into account.” He says softly, turning so he's facing the fireplace. As he looks into the dancing flames he continues. “I'm guessing that Mois didn't tell you what I said that made him so afraid. He knows that my breaking him is not as dangerous as some of the other stunts I've pulled off, though I guess he could be fearing for my soul. . . .However that is not what has him so terrified that he divulged something I told him not to. I told him I need to control information, yet he told you. I'm sure you're wondering what I said that frightened the unflappable Master Mois huh?” Without waiting for a response Alexi turns around to face Joseph once more. The look on his face is indeed sad this time, but he seems to ignore it. “Help me. Get me through to at lease the second dose. By then it will be too late, and I will tell you why my brother is shaken to the core over this.”

[TShara]

Joseph felt his Master's hands and hesitantly forced himself to meet the human's eyes. His belief that slavery was immoral did not extend to his own position, for in his mind, he was still serving a sentence for the innocents he had killed in the days of his youth. Slavery had tamed a bloodlust that he had once been unable to suppress, one that had been justified by ideals of Vampire superiority. Long ago he had decided that, even if somehow slavery was abolished, he would remain a servant. It was his penance on Earth, to spend the rest of his life serving those he had once thought inferior.

A weak smile crossed the servant's visage as he remembers Alexi's rather rowdy childhood. Both boys had been difficult to keep up with. More than once Joseph had muttered about how he was “too old for this,” but he had loved them dearly, even after he had been forced to treat them as superiors. The words and the kiss sparked something within him, and the elder servant had to force himself not to tear up. Such sentiment was not his place.

I'm sure you're wondering what I said that frightened the unflappable Master Mois huh? Alexi had asked. That was a valid question, but Joseph had not been given much time to ponder it, as he had been distracted with his own concern for his younger Master's safety. At the time, he had assumed that Mois was afraid for Alexi's safety in the breaking. Poor Mois has fretted over his brother so much throughout his strange stunts over the years. But come to think of it, there was more to it. Breaking a vampire is relatively safe these days, especially when one could keep them on a short chain. It is much safer for the human now than it was when I was first broken, the creature thought with a guilty pang in his stomach.

“Master Alexi, you know full well that you are asking me to watch a man suffer while doing nothing to help him. That will not be easy for me. But I have not disobeyed an order for many centuries, and I cannot start now. But know that we will both lose a bit of our souls by the end of these next few months,” Joseph replied darkly, as he stood and bowed at the hip.

[PopeAlessandros]

Joseph's words are like a sledgehammer to the guts, but Alexi does not let it show on his face. 'Yes, I know, and I am sorry my dear Joseph' Turning to watch the centuries old creature stand and bow low he lets out a breath he didn't know he was holding. “I know Joseph, but I pray I will be able to save yours in the end.” He motions that the slave should leave him now, but calls out to him just as he reaches the door. “Starting tomorrow I am giving you permission to enter my room and speak to him, should you feel like it, at any time. I am not sure what would come from such things, but if you feel the urge, please, do not hesitate.” With that he dismisses the male once more with a wave. Once the door is closed Alexi turn to the fire and place a hand over the growing ache in his stomach. “Hmmm, must be hungry. . .” he murmurs, know full well that that is only a partial cause for the pain throbbing deep inside of him.

Once he's collected himself he takes a deep breath, letting it out slowly before heading out into the front hall and through the mansion to the direct access door to the garage. His personal driver, a teenage looking elf in a dark red suit, jumps when he spots Master Alexi walking into the garage. Checking his day planner he reconfirms with himself where the master wishes to go and without a word rushes ahead to hold the door for him. Alexi gives him a smile as he slides into the back seat of an old Lincoln town car, adapted to run on a more efficient and less pollutant filled fuel, and with a dark enough tint on the back windows that it is impossible to see through them. The slave grins back at him, pulling his hat of the little hook he keep it on one his belt before rushing around to the driver door. Pulling on the hat, he once again grins at himself in the rear view mirror when he spots the little alteration and additions that Master Alexi let him add to it.

The golden pins shaped like the ancient symbols of his people gleam in the light coming from the overheads in the garage as he fixes the mirror before pulling out of the garage and following the long winding driveway out to the street. He is silent for a few minutes, watching Master Alexi to make sure he's not busy before speaking up. “So, um Master Alexi, are there going to be new additions to the house sir? I mean, we're going to a construction agency, and last time we went there you added a new bath house for the slave's quarters sir.” His tone seems a little light, but there is no mistaking his subservient tone each time he says 'sir'.

Alexi turns to look towards the front of the car when his driver begins speaking and he smiles lightly. “Yes, a bit of a restructuring. Those slaves we acquired last month are far too tall for the servant rooms as they are, so I'm going to be having the roof raised in that section, perhaps adding a second story above it to give you all more room.” The elf grins wide at the thought, knowing exactly what Master Alexi is talking about. “It will be a little hard on you guys for a while, but when it's done I think you will all be far more comfortable.”

The driver's smile widens even further, if that's even possible. 'Master Alexi Vandros has to be the best slave owner ever! He always thinks so much about us. I know a lot of the slaves in the mansion served under Lord Vandros before he died, and they all agree that Master Alexi is much much better' Stopping at a stop sign he pauses to look both ways, giving his rear view mirror a quick glance before taking the turn. 'I was born a slave, and my parent's owners were pretty bad. They were forced to have me, and that's awful I think that was why they didn't seem to love me. . . .But ever since I was sold to Master Alexi and moved to the Vandros manor, I don't think life for a slave could be any better!'

Humming lightly he makes another turn, their destination in sight. When at last they pull up to the building the elf pulls right up to the front door and stops, opening his door carefully as to not hit anyone who may be driving or walking by. In public he more acts the part of a slave, keeping his eyes down and his pace even as he walks around to open the door for his master. As soon as Master Alexi is out he closes the door softly and slides back into the vehicle. Moving the car over into the area where cars with drivers can wait until they see their passengers coming out of the building he turns the engine off and settles back into the seat, his mind wandering over just what he thinks the new servant's quarters will look like.

[TShara]

Most of my soul was lost centuries ago. I threw much of it away, and then the breaking stole almost all of the remaining parts. I have clung to what's left and tried to rebuild it for five centuries now. But you, young one, only have a short life to live. I hope that you know what you are doing, my son, Joseph thought solemnly as he bowed once more at the door. He was unsure if he even wanted to speak to the prisoner. What help could he possibly be to this younger vampire?

After leaving the sitting room, he traversed the house to his own room in the servants' quarters. The servants lived in a large dormitory-like structure only a few hundred feet off of the main house. Another underground passageway connected the two buildings so that servants could traverse the way to the house without any problems. The rooms were about the size of most hotel rooms, and each slave was allotted a room to him or herself, so that if nothing else, each could have a modicum of privacy. There were also “family-sized” areas that were about twice as large, for those slaves who fell in love and wanted to live together. Such an arrangement had to be cleared by Master Alexi, through Joseph, but the elder vampire had never known the Lord of the house to deny two creatures who loved each other.

His room was at the end of the hall, identical to “family” quarters in both size and layout. Joseph did not have a family of his own, but he spent much of his spare time acting as “uncle,” counselor, scheduler, and manager to all the slaves that lived here. When two people had a problem, or if one person just wanted to talk, they could sit down with him nearly any time that he was at home, or schedule an appointment that worked with both of their work schedules. Anything discussed in those sessions was confidential, unless it was absolutely crucial that Joseph tell Master Alexi, which was rare.

But thankfully, today he was left alone. There were no appointments; no one came in, and he was free to put on headphones and play on his small digital piano. There was a Steinway grand in one of the main rooms of the house, but right now Joseph just wanted to be left alone. He played several pieces from memory to try and calm himself, but it was ineffective. Eventually he gave in, locked the door (something he hardly ever did), and quietly sobbed, trying not to allow himself to be heard. The walls were thick, but not totally soundproof, and many of the servants had excellent hearing.

I can't do this! I can't... I can't watch anyone go through that living hell. It would be easier if he just didn't resist. Perhaps I could just give him injections to get it over with faster. No... no... the first has to be his own “choice,” even if it's an instinctual decision to stay alive. It doesn't work otherwise. Besides, the worst of it isn't the pain. It's the end. It's knowing that you are nothing, that your life doesn't matter now. That you truly are property. That you have to struggle every minute to retain your freewill, to be more than a mere automaton. It has taken me more than three centuries to recover from the last breaking, and I still struggle with the ideologies that my original magical breaking put into me. And the 21st century versions are even more potent. But there is nothing I can do. Maybe Master Alexi is crazy. Maybe he has lost his mind. But surely I must follow him to the ends of the Earth regardless. I once relished in the screams of humans when I would steal their blood and their lives. Why is it that I cannot stand to see one of my own kind in pain? Have I truly changed so much? This is wrong. What I did was wrong, but this is just as horrible. Lord Alexi is my master though; I must not betray him. These tears, this pain, this is what I deserve. But he does not deserve it. I cannot simply free him. I cannot contact his resistance and tell them to mount a rescue. I cannot betray Master Alexi, even if he is wrong. And if he is right, then perhaps the sacrifice of one man for the good of many is worth it. I just wish I could take his place. He has only killed to defend the rights of slaves. He does not deserve that torture, but I do.

As the somewhat repetitive thoughts raced through his head, tears continued to stream down Joseph's face. But finally he took a deep breath and stood. He only needed a few hours of sleep a day. Any more was a luxury, but his chores were done for now, and he did most of his work at night anyway. As far as his new orders of cleaning the master bedroom, those were to wait until the next day, and the elder vampire had no desire to enter before then. Lord Alexi would not return for several hours, so he decided to take his afternoon nap.

Entering his small bedroom, he changed into some nightclothes and fell into a comfortable double bed. The stereotype that Vampires slept in coffins was a common misconception. Who wanted to be reminded of their impending death all the time?

~*~*~

Joseph awoke from his nap at sunset, and quickly bathed and dressed. Taking a salad, some water, and a small vial of animal blood out of his personal fridge, he sat down to have a meal. But he was finished quickly, and he son left the room. Master Alexi would return home within a couple of hours, and he wanted to oversee the preparation of dinner.

[PopeAlessandros]

Alexi gives Uwin's shoulder a light pat as he wanders off through the garage towards the house. The had gone many places that day and Uwin had made sure that Alexi wasn't late for a single thing. Even though the meeting at the construction agency had taken longer than he'd planned. The owner of the company counts Alexi as a good customer, however he doesn't seem to be able to take any job without questioning the Vandros endlessly about why he does things the way he does. The outline Alexi set out will make the job take much longer than it need be, but he has a very good if private reason for it. If here were to tell the man that he was doing it for the slaves' sake he knows that his reputation would take quite a hit. 'After all, I do go out of my way to keep slaves enslaved, or so it would seem to an outsider' he muses, entering the house through the garage.

Stopping by the kitchens he watches with a small smile as the staff rush about, scrambling here and there as if he's doing some kind of inspection and worried that they won't pass. Even the older slaves are surprised to see him but after a little shushing he asks for a bottle of wine from the cellar and a pair of slaves scoot off to go grab it for him. Leaning against the doorway he waits with a little smile on his face as the staff slowly gets back to work, casting glances in his direction every so often as they prepare the evening meals for those ready for bed, and those just getting up. 'Sometimes it's so much fun to just watch them. Sometimes it even feels like they are enjoying themselves, and I'm sure some of them even like cooking, but unfortunately when I'm here they all get so nervous. The kitchen staff needs to get out more, see me more often' As soon as the slaves return with the bottle Alexi snags a glass and tells them all to keep up the good work.

Letting out a sigh Alexi decides to take a very round about way back to his room, ducking out back to the garden to take in some of the nice fresh evening air. Despite the sun having just gone down the air is already cooling, and the feel of it on Alexi's skin pulls a sigh from his lips, a bit of tension being released with it. The night blooms begin their nightly act of opening to the stars above and Alexi lets the various plants brush over his hands as he walks past them. The garden is like a labyrinth of sorts, bushes of all different kinds lining the walkway, and a good collection of walkways and dead ends with benches with trellises over them. And at the very center if a beautiful white gazeebo so bound up in climbing flowers that it looks almost as if it's made entirely of plants. Inside instead of benches there is a patch of thick grass large enough for several people to sit or lay on should they choose. However these days the only ones that go out to it are the woodland slaves, and Alexi himself, dragging Mois along only when he believes his brother really needs a break.

Passing the night lilies Alexi finally decides it's time to head to his room. 'No doubt that tonight is going to be interesting. Even if he decides to ignore me, I don't think I could ever get tired of just watching him. But I doubt that he'll ignore me. He's far too passionate for that. Also, I think he hates me already so having me stare at him may drive him a little nuts' With a faint chuckle The younger Vandros makes his way into the house, climbing the stairs to upper floors where his bedroom is. He pauses just outside the door, wondering what he'll find on the other side.

[TShara]

Joseph made an effort to assist in the kitchen, but in reality, he was neither needed to assist nor to oversee. He liked to make himself visible though, to act as a friend and mentor, and not as though he was above the menial housework. In his scheduling, he made it a point to assign himself some of the myriad of chores, though it always seemed that Lord Alexi had so many slaves that even in this gigantic mansion, there was sometimes simply not enough work to go around.

~*~*~

By the time Lord Alexi entered, Erik had been awake for about two hours. He had tried to take one of the books from the nearby shelf and just read, but for some reason he was far too jumpy. There was a moderate pain in his chest, and he was sweating lightly. Such symptoms were not unfamiliar to him, as the supply of blood could be scarce in the Resistance. But he knew he had to feed soon. Unfortunately, the vampire also knew that he would not be allowed to do so, not unless he caved in and took that damned potion.

“What the hell do you want?” he demanded as Alexi came in the room. His eyes glowed a dark red, and his fangs extended slightly, though his voice remained only somewhat hostile. How he would have loved to be free of these chains just to take a bite out of this arrogant slaver. Sure, Erik never bit a human he was allied with, such as those who joined the Resistance or supported them in other ways. But as far as he was concerned, this lunatic tormentor was fair game.

[PopeAlessandros]

Running his tongue over his lips to wet them, they having dried in anticipation, Alexi hums softly to himself as he pushes the door to his room open. His eyes immediately find those of the vampires and he smiles softly as he closes the door behind him, the wine bottle and glass grasped in one hand. At a distance he doesn't really notice the vampire's distressed state, and as he sets the bottle and glass down beside his wardrobe the clicks his tongue. “Now now, I told you to watch the language.” Pulling open the door he shucks off his finery and pulls on a nice par of deep red silk pajama pants. The feel of the fabric on his legs and the like makes him shiver in enjoyment.

'Love this feeling, so slick' Stepping back he closes the doors and scoops up his clothing, dumping them in a chute beside it. The chute looks a lot like an old wicker hamper on the outside made of some sort of red colored reeds, but inside it is much like Mois's laundry chute and it takes his clothes strait to the laundry room. Picking up the glass and bottle once more he wanders closer to the vampire, still well out of reach, and looks him over carefully. 'He looks rather uncomfortable. I should have Joseph help him change into something less sweaty tomorrow' There are special clothes made for vampires who are in the midst of breaking, and Alexi decides to order some nice tasteful stuff in the morning. His smile stays in place as he climbs on his bed and settles against the headboard. The slave had pulled the cork for him so with a sigh he pours himself a nice glass of the fruity red wine before setting the bottle aside. Unsure of just what to say to the bound creature Alexi sits quietly, sipping his wine, waiting for the other to speak first.

[TShara]

The thought of sharing a room with this “Alexi” made his blood boil, but Erik knew full well that he had no choice. That sweet, sweet blood was so close. The scent of the human's blood both enraged and intoxicated him simultaneously. He was silent for several minutes before he finally began to speak.

“Who's to say I won't break through these chains and kill you in your sleep, Alexi?” the vampire asked, showing his fangs as he smiled at the human drinking that lovely glass of red wine. “I do not usually devour humans, but for a slaver and kidnapper like yourself, I think I might make an exception,” he hissed.

But deep down, Erik knew he was just blowing angry smoke. The chains were unbreakable, and the more he struggled against them, the weaker he became. So long as that damn human did not come within the radius of the chains, he could do nothing to him. He was simply doomed to smell that intoxicating scent of blood that threatened to send him into an even deeper hunger.

“Why did you put me in here with you anyway? Surely some dungeon cell is more suited to this business. Unless of course you just wanted to stare at me like some fucking zoo animal,” Erik commented, intentionally cursing just to try and rile the Lord.

[PopeAlessandros]

Alexi doesn't even honor the vampires little outburst with a response, simply continuing to sip his wine while he waits for something actually worth a reply. 'Such a rowdy little thing. He seems to say whatever comes to mind. Must be so nice to be able to speak like that. I on the other hand have no choice but to control myself a little more than that' His eyebrow raises from his second question though, the tone behind his cussing not lost on the younger Vandros. Looking over his glass at Erik Alexi take a little time to contemplate his response. 'I can not be completely honest here, but I think I should do my best'

With a light breathy noise Alexi sets aside his glass and shift on to his stomach, facing his captive with his head propped up on his hands. “I have my reasons for having you in here with me, not the least of which is that by my research this is one of the fastest ways to complete the breaking.” He smiles, his feet coming up to kick gently. “Something about having food so close and unable to eat it, then of course since I am binding you to me, having to smell my blood all the time will make you more hungry for mine specifically.” His tone is a little light, but he tries his best to not sound as if he’s relishing the prospect or what he's about to put the poor vampire through.

Rolling on to his back, his arms stretched out over his head he lets out a grunt. “Also, it's far more convenient for me to have you here. See, I would like to actually have some conversations with you. After all, we both have the same goals, though mine are not only more devious, but guaranteed to work.” Alexi's voice stops a little sort, then a moment later he lets out a sigh. “Well, at least the half of my plans that run parallel to you own. The other half. . .” He rolls back over to look into his captive's eyes. “The other half I'm not so sure, but I hope it does. . .” He chuckles lightly, his body stretching out flat, his head turned slightly to the side as one arm falls to dangle over the edge. “Listen to me, hoping. I've never had to hope for anything before. I've always gotten what I want, but this time I won't even get to see if it works. . . .”

[TShara]

Erik had always been strong-willed and outspoken, and had always had difficulty with controlling his temper. But normally he was better to control himself when it was necessary. However, in these moments, his mind was already becoming slightly addled with the lack of blood, and in any case, he did not much care what this human thought of him anyway.

But despite himself, Alexi's words were intriguing, at least in the sense that speaking with a madman was intriguing. He took a deep breath to calm himself, and continued the conversation without cursing, and without threats on the human's life for now. The symptoms were still there, but they were not yet overpowering. He could still choose not to give into them if he desired.

“The same goals?! What a laugh. My goal is to end this oppression, to end this slavery. Surely you cannot be working towards that goal. If I truly believed that there was a way that turning myself into a hard broken slave could save the millions of magical creatures that are forced into servitude, then I would do it in a second. But there is no way that could be the case. If it were as easy as sacrificing one man, then the resistance would have already done it a century ago. I think you're just crazy,” Erik responded coldly, staring at Alexi. He looked as dangerous as ever, but for the moment he was intrigued by the other man's insanity, and that somewhat distracted him from his maddening bloodlust.

All of his words were true enough, however. Some of the Resistance fighters fought out of anger, or a certain bloodlust of their own, and that motivation was never far from Erik's mind. But he wanted peace as much as anyone else. He wanted a world where humans and magicals could work side by side, or at least to allow the magicals to leave. He wanted to live his life without fear of capture so long as he followed the law.

“But while I am humoring your insanity, then what makes you think you will not be here to see the ending of your plan?”

[PopeAlessandros]

'He sounds calmer now. That's good. It's so disheartening to see him so upset all the time without using it effectively' His danging hand curls a bit as he listens, his fingers twiddling with the blanket. He listens intently, not wanting to interrupt him even on accident. 'He has a very lovely voice. . .And those eyes. . .I wonder if he has a lover. I can't see one as pretty as him being without at least one or two partners. Even if he is leading a rebellion, everyone has time for a tryst or two, right?' As the male glares him down Alexi thinks over what he says and tries to formulate a proper response when Erik speaks up again.

'Oh, he caught on to that did he? Ah, well, it's not like he can guess much from that. The beauty of the English language: Every sentence can be taken several different ways' His hand releases the blanket and snakes back up to cross over the other, both of them slipping beneath his head so he can rest his chin on them. Licking his lips he smiles again, finally deciding on what to say. “Whoever said that your enslavement had anything to do with freeing all the other non-human slaves?” He raises an eyebrow in sarcastic question and chuckles. Then after a second his face slips into a very serious expression. His eyes flash as he stares directly at the vampire. “Whether my plan with you works or not, the non-humans will be freed without fail. There is no doubt in that, believe me.” He immediately waves his hand, rolling his head to the side. “Or don't, your choice.”

Keeping his eyes turned away he murmurs softly, “As for my not seeing the end, can you really see all this ending in my lifetime. It takes an age for a tree to bare the ripest fruit, and even after my plan succeeds, the actual end of such things is so far in the future I shudder to think of the world until then.” Chewing on his lower lip carefully Alexi seems to curl into himself, his legs sliding across the soft bed coverings until he rolls on to his side, one arm bent beneath his head. The fingers of his arm pillow stretch out to stroke through his hair as he begins talking softly, and if it wasn't for the occasional glance towards Erik one would think he's talking to himself.

“No one really knows just how old you are, so I'm wondering if you know about the first great slavery. Much like today, the slaves were no more than property, worked to the bone, unforgiven even the smallest trespasses. However unlike today, the slave were humans of course.” He lets out a long breath, his eyes going very far away. “I am a man of history, so I know all about it. We didn't even know your kind really existed back then. It was such common place to have slaves, and with no rules to protect them, the sight of them dead in the streets wasn't all that uncommon either. When I was reading about it, I got rather ill the first time. Like whenever I saw my father whipping a slave. My stomach just couldn't handle it.” Arching his neck he looks up at the bound male with a sad smile. “But you know what? I think the most common link between this slavery, and the one from back then, is something that has always been properly recorded in history,even if no one noticed it.”

Rolling back to his stomach Alexi's hand continues to run through his hair, while the other comes up to rest on the arm attached to it just above the elbow. “In every country, those who were enslaved were, for the most part, those that were different from the majority. Whether it be by religion, skin color, birth station, or even political ideals. Humans as a people fear what is different, and by enslaving it, they feel safer.” His face remains fairly neutral as he continues. “I think it is by far one of the stupidest traits we as a race have, but it's a fact none the less.” His face converts to a light smile. “Again, I would not presume to tell you what to think, but it would be nice if you could take something from this little history lesson. I personally love things that are different. I can go anywhere to see all the new and shiny stuff being released every day by big companies, but this house is like my own little museum of oddities not found anywhere else in the world anymore, save perhaps a few remote places here or there.” His fingers continue to work his locks as he stares patiently at the soon-to-be-slave chained to his wall.

[TShara]

I do not even know what to think of this guy. Let's say for a moment that I even believe that he wants to free the magicals. And let's say I believe that enslaving me is separate from this plan. Then what? I'll be the only slave left? What about the other slaves in this house, which he no doubt has. If he wants the rest of us free, then will he free his own? And what about me? Then he goes on about liking unique things. It's like he's dropping breadcrumbs about his crazed plan all around, just to enjoy watching me running around, trying to put the pieces together. It's fucking infuriating.

Make no mistake, Erik did not believe most of what this eccentric human was saying; not for a second. But rather than continuing to deny it, he realized he might gain some insight into this madman's mind if he merely played along. Either Alexi was telling the truth, and he really did have a plan to end these horrors, in which case perhaps he was not so horrible after all. Or he was lying, in which case Erik hoped to catch him in a lie. Or if he was crazy, then perhaps he could find a way to figure out how this crazy mind worked. In any case, it was important that he keep Alexi talking.

“I don't see all this ending in your lifetime. That much is true. It is quite pathetic that you humans spend so much of your short lives tormenting each other, distrusting outsiders just for being different. How boring the lives of your people must be. But do not think you are unique in your observations of your race. Your human arrogance and fear of those different is clear to most of us as well. The vast majority kind is short-lived and cruel.” Erik sat up on the edge of his bed and looked at Alexi.

“Am I supposed to fall under that then? Am I supposed to be an oddity? A hard-broken former rebel, part of your collection?” the prisoner questioned, staring directly into Alexi's eyes. “I suppose if you ended slavery then I would be the only one left, except any other hard-broken vampire slaves you may have. But then why me specifically?”

Not that Erik saw any reason to volunteer information on himself, but Erik was 243 years old now, relatively young for a vampire, and certainly not unique in terms of age. But he was the “face” of the rebellion. A few impressive deeds, and a few more misunderstandings that made him look far more impressive, and before he had realized it, his cell was leading the others, even though they primarily acted independently and kept little contact. In reality, he was more of a folk hero and a symbol than true military leader. The cells could not afford to be that structured, for the rebellion was a very organic movement, and needed as much flexibility as possible. Still, if there was an overarching “leader” to be had, then Cell Leader Erik Schumann would be the closest thing they had.

A thought occurred to the vampire, some memory from the news. “You're the CEO of some major slave control technology company. Why would you want to end slavery when the proceeds from it allow you to live as a king?”

[PopeAlessandros]

Alexi watches quietly as Erik responds, his hand running slowly through his now shiny looking hair. 'Well, at least we agree on one thing. I wonder if there's anything else we can agree upon. We don't have all the time in the world to get to know each other, but I hope there is something we share that we can talk about. It's obvious that ending slavery doesn't seem to be it. He doesn't seem he will believe. . .' He raises an eyebrow at the comment about leaving the hard broken vampires but stays quiet to listen further. He doesn't want to interrupt, finding he enjoys listening to the unbeknownst to him relatively young vampire.

As he watches it looks as if he's just recalled something important and Alexi raises his head up a little higher. His smile converts to one of pride and with a little “Yoush” noise he pushes himself up. Slowly spinning his legs around so they are once more under him he crosses them snugly against him. “Hnn, yes, I do own the only company that manufactures slave control technology. The one and only. I am very good at tracking new companies trying to start up, and I either buy them out, or crush them.” Knowing the reference will be lost on him Alexi can not help but take the opportunity to hold up a fist and say dramatically, “There can be only one!” A moment later he hand falls and he chuckles. “Sorry, old movie I really like. A series actually. Anyways, what was I saying? Oh yes.”

Looking back to his captive with a strait face he blinks slowly. “Even if there are some small companies, which is entirely possible, it won't matter. Majority rules, no?” He tries not to sound superior but he's not sure if he succeeds. “You will be an oddity, no doubt about that. . .” His voice trails off as if he has more to say but instead he looks up at the canopy above his bed. “As for the hard broken, do not worry, they will not be left behind.” He looks to Erik with a soft smile. “But that will be you and yours' job. I won't be able to order them to do it, but I don't see you guys turning down the freeing of so many of your brethren.” hanging his legs over the edge of the bed he kicks them gently. “The solution isn't to tasty, but it works, I've had it proven and tested a dozen times.”

Alexi does not mind telling his new little pet about the solution, or potion of you will, that he had developed “for fun” in one of his smaller development labs. Most of his workers know he's a little off, and didn't think much of it. They still don't, and with only about a dozen doses they don't see Alexi really doing anything with them. He'd taken them home with him weeks ago, having them make a copy of the formula for him. The formula is well hidden, but that too will one day be added tot he box. “Yes, rest assured, they will not be left behind. . . .” Again his voice trails off, but this time it's for a very different reason. His thoughts wander to his mentor, most likely preparing his dinner for the evening before ringing the bell in his room to signal that it's ready. 'He's so attentive and loving, I wonder if he'll change? A few of the test subjects were very young, and those were uncontrollable and vicious before being broken, and after. . .They went right back. Joseph says he was once a killer, but he's been broken for so long, maybe he'll be like the older ones. . .' His mind drifts about and it is obvious by his face that he is lost in thought.

[TShara]

Erik rolled his eyes. It seemed that this human would just keep dropping breadcrumbs of information ad infinitum, with no regard for the vampire's frustration or even the questions being asked. The thought made him growl in frustration.

“So what? Your plan is to manufacture this cure and then have my rebel group distribute it? That's absurd. Even if I believed you, it would have to work for all types of hard broken creatures. On top of that, we will still be slaves for as long as we have no protection under the law. Someone would find other ways to enslave magical creatures so long as they still are allowed to do so, so long as they still think it's right. If what I think you're saying is true, it would be a step in the right direction, but it would not be the end of our struggle in the least,” the rebel vampire answered, trying to focus on the insane conversation as the scent of blood assaulted his nostrils. His logical mind was still working enough to realize that he would get no where with threats, tempting as they were, and his urges could be controlled for now.

“Besides, you still haven't answered why you would do this when it would basically tank your company. And you also haven't answered as to why you are really breaking me. If you wanted to free the slaves, you wouldn't break me to do it,” he finished, glaring up at the human.

Of course, everything he was saying was just speculation, so he chose not to continue. Let the bastard wait on seeing him chase the breadcrumbs and theorize on the connections. He thought that perhaps Alexi thought he needed him to lead the rebels on the distribution, but that would make no sense because if this crazy idea were real (Erik still didn't believe it for a second), then he could have just contacted the Erik and asked him. Of course then they would have had to determine the veracity of the serum, either through testing, or possibly by watching it work. They could never trust the word of a human without verification. Maybe that's what he was supposed to be, one last test subject? But the vampire doubted that, considering Alexi seemed so certain that the serum would function, given the dozen tests and all. Erik's brain was exhausted, and growing hungrier by the second. Trying to figure out this craziness was the last thing he wanted to do at the moment, but he also knew that it was important to try.

[PopeAlessandros]

Alexi watches calmly as the vampire snaps back at him, his condition becoming clearer and clearer as he rants on. 'H's already begun feeling the effect this strongly. I wonder how long it's been since he's eaten. Poor thing. Too bad for you, but this will expedite my plan' He sighs lightly, sure now that further conversation with Erik in his current condition would most likely not lead anywhere productive. 'I really do with he could understand and trust me, but I suppose I will just have to put up with my unruly guest until the time comes' He pouts a little at the thought, not really paying attention to him after he falls silent. 'And I so wished this first time would go better, oh well' Hopping off the bed he walks past the foot of his bed, just out of reach of the vampire even if he stretched out his legs as far as they would go, but close enough to try and frustrate the beast.

The bell sounds as he moves towards the door and he smiles. 'Perfect timing Joseph' he complements silently. Turning back to Erik ha smiles, a very fond look in his eyes. “I'm not stupid Sir, I know what I am doing. I am arrogant, self serving, and have never not gotten my way. Do not think for a second that I haven't thought this through to the point of extreme happenings. Nothing will stop me from getting what I want, not even me.” His tone is light, but with a somewhat slicing nature, his smile very gentle looking while in his eyes his seriousness is unmistakable. “Your part is not necessary for the big plan, the freeing of the slaves, it really isn't. No, your part is for something else, and honestly, if it doesn't work, I don't think I'll care either way as long as the big part comes together perfectly. As I know it will.” With that he turns and leaves the room, snagging a housecoat as he does so, the door swinging softly shut behind him.

[TShara]

Involuntarily, Erik inhaled deeply as Alexi strode by, more sweat trickling from his brow. The Lord's demeanor was infuriating, his arrogance even worse. But that lovely smell of blood, coupled with the natural anger the vampire felt, it was maddening. The last time Erik had been this deprived was during his training. But that had only been 48 hours, and he suspected this would last considerably longer.

The look that the human gave him was not lost on vampire, almost a strange fondness, even as he essentially ignored everything he was saying. It simultaneously sickened and captivated him, and for the briefest of moments, he thought that perhaps the eccentric human might be telling the truth, that perhaps whatever cracked up plan he had would actually work. Then the moment passed and he came back to his senses.

“But what is my goddamn part supposed to be?!” the prisoner shouted in frustration as Alexi was leaving. The man was an enigma, and he clearly liked it that way. But the idea of not being allowed answers, of being so... controlled like this, sent bile down Erik's veins. I am the gorram leader of the Xani cell, not a prisoner or a pawn in someone else's insane plan! he thought angrily as he fruitlessly struggled against his chains again.

~*~*~

Joseph rang the bell that connected to Master Alexi's room to notify him of the late supper, consisting of braised shrimp, smoked salmon, and assorted vegetables. The large dining room table was always set up for Lord Alexi and any guests he might bring. The servants had their own area near the kitchen, where they ate, talked, and generally had a fine time during meals. Oftentimes, Joseph avoided joining them and ate alone, however. He may have been friend and counselor to many, but he was still their supervisor, and the idea of his being “too close” made many of the other slaves uncomfortable. Of course, there were times that he missed such friendship and camaraderie, but in his mind, his own loneliness was simply part of his fated punishment.

Master Alexi's hot plate had been placed on the table, and Joseph was filling his two glasses with water and tea respectively, when the lord of the manor arrived. He bowed as the human entered the room, and waited to be addressed, or not. It was not a slave's place to speak without being addressed, unless it was necessary, regardless of what lapses in protocol Lord Alexi allowed.

[PopeAlessandros]

Alexi lets out a sift sigh as the man yells after him as he leaves. 'Still, such spunk. I feels so happy. I wish he would just believe me, but then it wouldn't be any fun. . . And he wouldn't be the leader I know him to be. I so wish he did not have to suffer, but at the same time, being able to see his anger makes me so happy' Alexi knows that his way of thinking is twisted, simultaneously fascinated and saddened by his actions towards and reactions of another sentient being. Part of him never wanting to see another living creature in a position like that, while loving his slaves and not wanting to let them go. 'I want them all to be free, but I want to keep them with me. Like a child who wants his cake, and to eat it too. However, this possessive desire of mine will have no place in the new world. My fellows will have to get over it, or die' He hums softly, biting on to a knuckle in thought as he tries to bring his passion level down.

As he enters into his and his brother's private dinning room Alexi's mind clears a bit and he is able to throw a smile Joseph's way, his finger dropping from between his teeth. “Good evening Joseph,” he says kindly, “Your timing was perfect.” He knows the elder vampire won't really get it, but knowing Alexi the way he does his guesses will not be very far from the truth. His smile widens as he sits down to his meal, the smell expelling the last bits of fog from his brain, his passion switching over to the fine cuisine in front of him.

“Mmmm, seafood tonight. Joseph, you always know just what I need. . .” His voice trails off as he offers a small nod towards the kitchens as well. After all, Joseph may have decided what he's to eat that evening, but it's the kitchen staff that actually cooked it. 'I would be at a loss without my slaves. I doubt even servants will become a common thing for several generations, if we. . . . He shakes off the feeling and takes a seat, beginning to eat slowly. “You can go if you have something you need to do Joseph, or if you'd rather just not stand there. I'll be in my study until well after midnight. Feel free to get your new task done then.” His voice is even, no different than what the other slaves normally hear out of him. His concentration on wondering how he's going to sleep tonight keeps his mind occupied for a while as he eats silently.