PopeAlessandros

When Realms Collide {AkiBlue & PopeAlessandros}

Hearing Enasi talk while a little loopy amuses Seishu to no end. Unfortunately he can not manage more than a strained half smile. Shifting he looks to his minions in such a way that they know he's serious. They both snap to attention to listen. “We'll follow you out Tyar, and when we get there, you go out first, in your natural form, and circle the area at least twice before reporting back.” Glancing down at Enasi at the question he smirks. “Yes Enasi, time to go.” He watches Rue begin helping Enasi up out of the corner of his eye while he finishes addressing his minions. “Kaila, I want you in the air, only a few feet up. I'm pretty sure where we are going to come out so you'll only need a half a dozen feet to see over the trees.”

They both nod, watching their lord scoop up his counterpart tenderly, his gaze softening. Kaila takes the rear position, whispering to Rue “I'll carry you through the waterfall. After that, be ready to fly.” Rue nods, letting himself be picked up and holding tight to Kaila as the group takes off, Tyar in the lead. He is still stunned every time he sees the Nightmare Guardian's wings, but as they begin working the air he simply closes his eyes and waits for his cue to fly. When he feels Kaila letting go, only a few drops of water finding their way past his flaming wings, Rue's wing begin to beat rapidly and he take up his place beside Enasi, or as close as he can get.

The trip is uneventful, Seishu looking ahead knowing that if he looks down it could be disastrous. 'The last thing we need is another crisis right now. I'll just get us out of here, and then him home, and then I can stop worrying. If Doc can treat me as well as he has, then Enasi will be fine in a heart beat' He smirks. 'And then we can talk about some important, pressing matters' Landing carefully he watches the shadow slip out, giving Enasi a hug while he waits. Rue scoots in close, wrapping his arms around Seishu's best he can without jostling his guardian and presses his cheek against it. Kaila, while finding the scene cute, can’t help but worry if the little minion's energy hurts Master Seishu.

Seishu doesn't even notice the faint flicker of light that is the fairy, far to on edge. At least until Tyar gets back and says it's all clear. Slowly they exit and Seishu feels a small touch of triumph at the fact that he guessed right. The exit leads on to a very small ledge, a stone path leading upwards, and the ledge on the lip of a very, very high cliff. 'The recreational gliding cliffs. Yeah, this place would be empty if I know Gin' Following Tyar up on to the plateau he watches Kaila take to the skies, as instructed. He turns several full circles before coming back down.

“No one.” He murmurs, dropping to walk beside his guardian.

Once in the middle of the field Seishu sighs softly. Turning to his second he murmurs, “Hold this for me, will ya?” Kaila's eyes go a little wide but he nods silently. Carefully he takes Enasi from Seishu, doing his best to copy the barrier that Seishu had around the three of them. Rue looks a bit confused but takes his cue to stay by Kaila, watching Seishu move several paces away. 'Portal to Dream Realm, how hard could it be?' He tries for over a minute to lock on to the most familiar place, his own room, where at least a touch of negative energy is sure to be, however he realizes that he simply can not go that far in.

'Figures The Powers would put some sort of jam on me being able to go directly to the palace. . .Fine' He focuses instead on the area where he fell to Gin, the ground surly still stained with his blood even if it had rained and soaked in. Sure enough, a dark red light appears in his mind, his blood calling to him as he reaches for it. The portal crackles slowly to life, the dark blues and violets cradled into the black swirls. A pained expression crosses his face as lighter colors begin shooting through the vortex. As the worlds connect, the positive energy makes itself known throughout the portal's darkness and with a faint cry Seishu steps back.

“Almost forgot how much that stuff stings. . .” he murmurs. Kaila steps forward with Enasi, knowing them must go quickly. He pauses an arm's length away, watching Seishu pull out a syringe and inject himself with something.

His face relaxes moments later and that almost dreamy smile Rue has come to recognize as his pain killers high smile appears. Rue pats Kaila's arm, catching the taller male's attention. “It's okay, he's just dulling the pain before he goes through. Crios made that special for him.”

Kaila nods, carefully handing Enasi back, touching his guardian's hand one last time before stepping back. Rue moves in close to the two of them. With a sigh Seishu murmurs to the little fairy, “When we get to the other side, look after Enasi. I have the distinct impression I'm not going to be much help for a while.” Rue nods with determination and worry in his gaze. Tyar touches Seishu back before joining Kaila. With a final smile Seishu heads through the portal. Moving as swiftly as possible so it doesn’t collapse before they reach the other side.

~*~*~*~*~

Harper felt the portal forming long before it actually breached the barrier between realms and like a shot he was off. Once in the right place he sends his troops back, recognizing the spot and guessing quite accurately what is happening. He knows he would be faster, but too intent on being there when they come through he sent a runner off to go get Crios. A sharp feeling in his guts tells him he will be needed.

As he stands now, gazing deep into the gaping maw pouring negative energy into their realm even as he feels positive energy being drawn into it, he is still as a statue. 'Please, do not let it be that bad. I know it, I can feel it. I do not know why I can feel it. Maybe my position as his second, I just know. . .Lord Enasi, please be alive. . . .' His whiskers twitch as figures come into sight. Seeing the red head in the thin one's arms he steps forward instinctually. It is actually a good thing he does that. As soon as the portal closes all the negative energy vanishes and Seishu, ever the self sacrificing type, immediately compacts in his own energy, letting all the positive energy slam into him. Harper manages to take Enasi into his arms before Seishu falls to the ground, wrapping around a pain he'd long forgotten he could feel.

New Eyes and an Old Soul

Dorian raises an eyebrow when the youth does not go for the easy meal inside the home and instead begins stalking the bumbling drunkards. 'It is almost as if the prey inside is too easy a catch. He wants to have some challenge in capturing his meal' Silent as could be he follows behind James and takes his cues from both the young vampire, and the men up ahead. Every once in a long while Dorian has stalked like this, seeking out his meals through stealth rather than his patented charm. 'It is fun, and a bit thrilling, when the quarry is good. However these. . .'

He does not imagine they will taste all that pleasant, all that mead tainting their blood, however ha has known vampires that prefer their prey to be sotted. I prefer fresh and around James' visual age. When I can get it' he muses, preparing to strike. When at last the youth lashes out, grabbing and dragging the man off like a leopard with a kill he makes his own move swiftly before the other can raise the alarm. Sinking his fangs in he injects something to keep him quiet before following James into the shadows.

Before he can start eating however he warns the newborn one last time. “Do not kill him.” Then with a sigh he sinks his own fangs into his less than stellar prize and drinks only as much as he needs, not a drop more, before propping him up against a dirty barrel and turning to watch the little one carefully. His tongue comes out in distaste, wiping his mouth with the back of his hand. 'Well, I am fed, so I shall not complain. I will have to ask him when he is finished about his taste in humans. . .'

Never Ending Battle ~ PopeAlessandros x AkiBlue

Akito remains still and silent at the prince's comments, too focused on waiting to be forgiven to even acknowledge he's spoken. His eyes remain on the ground until Hiro's arm comes into view. His stomach nearly drops out of him at the sight of the mark, his breath stilling. Though only for an instant, as the prince forgive him in the next breath, Akito realizes he needs some serious discipline. 'If I can not turn off the warrior in me, this will happen again. I will hurt him, again. . .I don't. . . .I don't want to hurt him. . .' For the first time an actual tender thought passes through his heart for someone other than his father or his pet.

The moment passes, but the feeling stays and as he comes to his feet there is a new determination in his eyes. 'I hurt him because of fear. I can not be afraid like that, ever again' He begins planning just how to desensitize himself to common happenings in the palace without hesitation, several ideas coming to mind. “I'm use to these conditions.” he murmurs while Hiro seems distracted. With a slow nod he follows behind the prince, watching him trying to use his magic to see better. 'He's actually making things worse. The palace is in a different direction' He is distracted for a moment when the prince says what he had the servants tell the emperor.

“Thank you.” he murmurs, wondering next how to bring up the idea of going the right way. 'He seems so confident, so sure, even though he is out of his element. He is a princeling. They are not forest folk. . .' He has to agree with the interesting day bit, but instead of responding to that he instead walks up behind the prince once more. Unable to trust his voice he reaches out with both hands. One takes hi arm to still him while the other slips forward to close the prince's palm, cutting off the light. “Shhhhh. . . .” he says softly, waiting for his eye to adjust. He already knows which way is out, his sense of direction quite keen, but he doesn't want to just show the prince out, he wants to give the prince the chance to figure out what he's doing.

The difference in lighting is so subtle however that only one trained to operate in the darkness would be able to detect it. Despite his natural instinct to walk apart, to remain separate from others even when working together, Akito move from behind the prince to his side and slips an arm around his waist to guide him. Turning to the right he takes it slow, almost feeling the ground with his feet before each step just to make sure he doesn't walk the prince into something. When at last the light becomes evident he speeds up a little, but it isn't until it is easy to see the ground that he lets Hiro go and takes half a step away to walk a little distance apart from the younger male. Once out Akito notes that they are a good hundred yards from where they entered, glancing off to the right at a servant's cry before taking the chance to admire the small garden they walked out into.

The Rebel Vampire

Once Joseph is gone Mois finally manages to get a spoon full, bringing out Alexi's full pout mode, however a soft apologetic look from his brother is enough to bring him down from his pout. “So, what was that about anyways? He normally doesn't go that low when you two are alone.”

Alexi sighs gently. “He was just apologizing for misreading all these years, thinking me worse than I really am.” Alexi takes a bite, sipping his tea to wash it down. “Though I take it more as a compliment. Being able to trick him has to be one of my highest achievements since he has always managed to catch on to just about everything else I have ever hidden from him. It is amazing how a few well placed orders can keep such a big secret from one so observant. . .” His eyes go a little glassy as he adds, “Though, as I pointed it out to him, I am selfish. . .”

Mois nods, in no way able ti disagree. 'At least through your own eyes brother. No matter the amazingly selflessness of the act you are going to commit, in your own mind you are doing ti for selfish reasons' Mois lets out a sigh, turning to watch his breakfast come in with his usual inexpressive look when he's thinking. “Thank you Joseph.” he murmurs, setting into his breakfast quickly. Alexi is curious at this, but as it's Mois' day off he doesn't question it, especially after the day and night he had yesterday.

“Would either of you like anything else, Masters?” Joseph inquired, topping off the younger brother's orange juice.

Alexi thanks Joseph and shakes his head. Mois copies the action, already halfway through his meal. Eating a little more slowly Alexi indulges in telling Mois about how Riley has been redecorating his room, a faint twinkle in his eye as he speaks of the vines now growing across the ceiling. He suddenly pauses and asks, “Mois, can I join you this evening for exercise outside?”

While this is not a completely unheard of request, it has been some time since Alexi has wanted to do anything more than his normal workout every two weeks in his own room. 'I wonder if he's afraid of looking foolish in front of his “guest”. Would make sense. . .' “Sure. After dinner?” Alexi nods with a smile, launching back into talking about Riley.

~*~*~*~*~

The quiet in the computer room would be deafening if it wasn't for all the clickity clack of fingers and claws on keyboards. Elaria slips around the room quietly, looking at all the magicals working diligently on a mix of chores and personal projects. 'It's a wonder they all haven't caught on already. Maybe they're just so use to how well they are treated here that they've forgotten how bad it use to be. Master Alexi is a good actor, but I think he's gonna have a harder time now that he's. . .Well, he's willingly letting someone actually inside. He's been so distant from even the ones he loves for so long, I'm not sure how he'll survive this as long as he hopes to without slipping up. . .'

Elaria wandered to a closet in the back of the room where the extra laptops were kept and pulled out a sturdy but inexpensive model. If Master Alexi's guest only needed this for some kind of research, he did not need any powerful hardware. And her program worked at an OS and browser level anyway. On the way out, she stopped to speak with a few of her friends working in here, though she claimed she needed the computer for a small personal project she was working on, to avoid arousing suspicion.

Taking the laptop, she headed back to her office in the back of the garage and began working. Thankfully, she already had a similar program written, so it was just a matter of tweaking it for extra functionality. After she had been working for about half an hour, her new friend walked up in his human form, dressed in his clothes from the day before.

“You know, we'll need to find something in your size for your human form,” she commented blithely, smirking a bit. Though the younger drake did not understand human speech very well yet, she knew that speaking to him normally was the best way for him to start to catch on.

Without being asked, almost seemingly out of boredom, he began rubbing her back and neck as she worked. The rubbing was less like a human massage and more similar to their dragon form, but it was still lovely.

“Mmmmm,” she muttered, “Where were you when I was learning to code and trying to fix all those stupid bugs?”

~*~*~

Meanwhile, Joseph left and set about his work for the day. He finished drafting up the schedules and personally delivered lists of options with respective department heads' names for the new slaves, while taking the time to check up on them and answer their questions. Then, he set about cleaning the North Wing until lunchtime. Overall, it was a lovely day, and he was relieved to finally have some time to catch up on his work.

After breakfast Alexi spends his time until lunch locked in his study, pouring over everything from the attack the the previous day before moving on to the auction deals. He sighs at the sight of needing to arrange a meeting with Orion but smiles at the discount it got him. 'The more I save now the more I will have to donate' he muses with a faint smile, his slow typing interrupted by a knock at the door. “Come in.” He calls out, pressing the button on hi desk that unlocks the door. For a handful of seconds. An elderly female steps in, her name taking a moment to form before he smiles and gestures her closer. “Claudia, what do you need?” he asks the sprite gently.

The slightly jumpy female smiles a little, holding out a tray with a telegram on it. His eyes narrow a little, knowing only a handful of people who would send him such a low tech message. Taking it he dismisses her, waiting for the door to close behind her before reading it. If Alexi was a cursing man, he would be doing so as he reads the short message. Letting out a long sigh instead he tucks the sheet of paper into his pocket and races out to of the room. 'That weasel, he knows I hate meal meetings. He is so lying about forgetting about a prior arrangement for after lunch, he just wants to see me scramble. Well, jokes on him. My staff are masters of the last minute!'

Whipping out his phone he informs both Joseph and the kitchens that the lunch menu has to stretch to six people, and needs to consist of stuff that can be eaten while handling important documents. He sends a second message right after to both Joseph and the cleaning staff that the staff room needs to be outfitted for a meal and to open the windows a bit to let it air out. He'd planned on meeting them in his public hosting study but with the addition of his extra guest and a meal the staff room would be a better choice. 'I am so glad that Joseph set up those groups on my phone, making a lot less work for me when I have to text a lot of beings'

He pulls up to his room just as he presses send and darts inside. Without even a glance at anything else in the room his eyes lock on his wardrobe and in record time, he is naked. Muttering to himself he grabs one of him more conservative outfits. Raising his voice just a little he mutters, “I am going to look like a man in black in this, but what the who, it will be intimidating at the least. Maybe express how much this is not okay to do to me. . .” His voice is low, sounding slightly irritated. However as he goes on, an odd note comes to his voice. “They do not really care, doing stuff like this to me. They think it is funny, well it is not! They need to learn some respect. I sign their paychecks and they still think it is okay to go behind my back like this. . .” Realizing he rambling Alexi bites his lip and continues getting dressed.

Joseph's phone vibrated and he looked down from polishing a wood table to read the text. He knew full well that the lord of the house never texted unless it's a complete emergency. So he jumped up and ran to the kitchens to speak with the head chef and make sure they had everything worked out, though he smelled like cleaner and was wearing his cleaning outfit. Next, he sent a text message to Master Alexi, asking if he wanted him to work the meeting. Sometimes the master liked having him there, to hear what was going on with the business and even give advice afterwards, in private of course.

~*~*~

Erik looked up as the usually calm human ran into the room. He decided he could take a short break and turned to listen to the man's rambling. “Care to tell me what happened?” he asked curiously, crossing the room to stand near the other man. “Sounds like if you sign their paychecks, they should try not to irritate you so much.”

Alexi huffs. “It is Louis, one of father's old friends who knows I can not really replace him because much of his business only works because he is the one running ti. Old money, all the right connections . . .” Pulling up his phone only half dressed he texts back a quick -Yes- before tossing the phone on to the folded clothes on a shelf and pulling out one of his few plain white button-ups. 'Good, he can keep an eye out, impress them a little. Most have not met Joseph save in passing for tea and coffee. I know Joseph is a bit of a legend at this point, it should take away from the obvious shortcomings that are inevitable in situations like this' He silently thanks anyone who is listening for Joseph and expertly does up his tie in a fancy knot.

“I had a meeting today with my accountants for Gorgon International, and he slid himself into the schedule without checking, convinced them to move it to lunch for some selfish reason, and now. . .” He takes a breath, grabbing his phone and starts the transfer of all the notes he will need on to it while he pulls out his suit jacket. “This probably has to do with the attack yesterday, and I am sure everyone is on edge, having him take charge likely eased their nerves a bit.” He turns to Erik, straightening his tie. “See, he is a bit like me and my family. There was never a question of him spending his life rich and entitled, however unlike me, he takes it all for granted.”

As almost and afterthought he adds, “I am only sad that it will take a revolution for such living to bite him in the behind. . .” Shaking his head he smiles. “How do I look?”

~*~*~*~*~

Slipping into the kitchen for a snack before lunch Mois pauses as he notices everyone racing around. He is careful to stay out of the way until he can escape without his snack. Pulling out his cell he texts Joseph.
-What's going on?-

“Well, if one of my subordinates did something intentionally disrespectful to me, I would first discuss it privately with them to see if there was truly a good reason. If there wasn't, I'd demote the heck out of them, or have them scrubbing toilets for a week. But, clearly that's not an option here,” Erik replied, smirking a bit. “Though, it sounds like some toilet scrubbing would do this guy a world of good. I'm sure you'll be fine. And you look okay. Fix up your hair a little.”

~*~*~

Joseph got the reply as he was walking back to his apartment to change into his fanciest butler's uniform. He had already been sure that Master Alexi would want him there, even though he secretly despised being around the master's coworkers. Last minute meetings like this usually required a bit of personal oversight anyway.

At the image of Louis scrubbing toilets Alexi lets out a sharp laugh before reaching out an laying his palm on Erik's cheek gently. There is a faintly fond look in his eyes and he murmurs, “If only.” The moment is over an instant later and Alexi is sitting at his vanity, brushing out his hair, tying it in a low pony. “I will be back after lunch to change.” With a smile he stands, straightens everything one last time before waving and racing out of the room to check on everyone's progress before heading to the front door to await his guests.

Erik was surprised by the hand on his cheek and the look on Alexi's face at such a silly and mostly facetious comment, but he smiled and took it in stride. Unfortunately, there was not much to be done besides getting back to his paperwork, as he had eaten his breakfast earlier that morning. He would have almost been willing to scrub some toilets himself just to get away from it, but this had to be done. Otherwise, all of Alexi's research would be for naught.

~*~*~

Joseph changed quickly and checked back in on the kitchens, who had called in some more staff from their off hours and had done a wonderful job of getting everything up to speed. A simple four course meal was already planned, with salad, an appetizer, the main course, and dessert. He himself had even worn gold cufflinks and white gloves for the occasion. Though he did not personally care for them, it reflected well on Master Alexi for even his slaves to be dressed in gold. He had also managed to find three other slaves who were well-versed in the art of serving for fancy dinners to help him out. After the places were set in the dining room, he texted the master to let him know that everything was ready and that they were all in position. Given how much there was to do, it was only in the last second that Joseph remembered to reply to Mois, briefly explaining the situation.

Mois returns to his house after sending out the text, deciding to look through his own collection of duties Alexi needs him to do over the next few weeks. About half way through his closet in his hunt from some folders that had escaped his picket vibrates with Joseph's response. Reading it his expression darkens and a few choice words pass through his lips. He stays crouching, almost looking frozen for several minutes as he tries to think of anything he could do to help out his brother. With a final cuss he goes back to rummaging, hoping that Alexi won't go on one of his rants in front of the accountants.

~*~*~*~*~

Only stopping long enough to peek into the kitchen, not wanting to disturb them, Alexi is flits off to the staff room next and watches for a few seconds before adding a few extra instructions about the arrangement. As soon as the orders are out a gong sounds through the whole house and around the grounds letting everyone know that guests have arrived at the front gate. With a soft sigh Alexi makes his way to the front room, arriving just in time to open the door and watch the firs man step out of his car. The sleek new aged thing would normally make Alexi wrinkle his nose however in this case he is careful to remain presentable at all times.

Greeting each man he smiles that usual greasy smile that they've come to expect of men in Alexi's station. 'I wonder what Erik would think if he could see me like this. I my have pretended to be evil at first, but not sleazy like I have to around these men' Under normal circumstances for other men, this smile would not be an act, it would be real. In fact, Alexi is convinced that after attaining a certain station a human naturally becomes corrupt if they are not careful. 'Absolute power corrupts absolutely, right?' Keeping his thoughts to himself however he leads the way to the staff room, and is glad to see everything as it needs to be. Waiting for the rest to take their seats he takes his last and glances at Joseph. 'You know what to do'

At a small gesture from the vampire, Joseph's three helpers strode off in a line to the kitchen to retrieve the appetizer dish, while he himself began to take drink orders. Naturally, he kept a neutral expression around the guests, but he could not help but feel somewhat slimy inside speaking to these people, just like he had at the auction. Though he had been around snobs of different shades for five centuries, he had never completely gotten used to it. Maybe it was that he knew it would be over soon. Or maybe it was just that he hated seeing this persona in Master Alexi.

After he had taken all of the orders, he strode off to the kitchen and filled the drink orders, returning at the same time as the appetizers.

Without asking Louis immediately lights up a cigar as soon as Joseph is out of the room. After a few offhanded comments about the room, the staff, a bout being sorry to suddenly moving the meeting, the actual meeting gets under way. The time almost flies for Alexi as he focuses on the actual work. He eats a few bites here and there, sipping at his tea laced with brandy so it at least smells like the pure alcohol most of them are drinking, having some actual perfectly brewed hot tea with the main course. It isn't until it's time for dessert and once more Joseph is out of the room that Louis begins on his normal tirade about how Alexi needs to expand and create actual breaking devices.

With a sigh Alexi smiles at the man. “I have told you many times, I have my hands full with what I already have. I ca-”

Louis waves a hand dismissively. “That's nonsense and you know it lad.” Alexi refrains from replying, knowing that he has a further point to make. The others look to the now slightly intoxicated man, wondering if he's alright. “I have seen you build whole new businesses from the ground up, and with all the fine slaves you got working for free here, you could make more than your whole house is worth in two short years! The innovation you show when you put your mind to it!” Leaning in he look hard at Alexi. “And even that mess yesterday has hardly put you back. I heard from Souchez's legal department, you're barely out a few million.”

Alexi seriously has to fight back the urge to mention the lost lives that are worth more than any money one could begin to imagine. 'Men like this can put a price on life, and apparently it is a very low number. . .' With a sigh he smiles at the delicate dessert that gets served, giving him a few moment's reprieve before having to come up with an answer. “So, you have been talking to the legal department at Souchez?”

Lois nods. “Yeah. After the attack they were a bit worried, and since I have a hand in the paperwork that goes through there they were more than willing to give me a little sneak peek.”

The ice beneath Alexi thins, this poorly veiled show of power of Alexi's own something a lot of people would rise to challenge and providing a tempting target for the young rich kid. He is indeed young for having such a fortune at his fingertips, however it is in these cases that not being able to feel anything intensely comes in handy. Sure, the near threat upset him, but he simple smiles it off, raising his cup in salute. “A man who knows what he needs and how to get it. I am honored you are looking out for me Mr. Lanchester.” The rest of the room relaxes and Louis visibly bites his lip, clearly hoping Alexi would take the bait.

Instead of staying on the point however, he moves on to a new track. “I plan on sitting in on that meeting next week. I hear it's going to be riveting.”

At this Alexi stares at his cup, going over all the plans for the upcoming week and pinpointing what he's talking about. 'Well, I planned on skipping that one. It's a menial thing, however after the attack, the last thing I need is him alone in a room with those people. . .If he gets going on safety after the missile attack he could really mess things up. . .' “Oh really? You know, after the attack, I think I should show my face around a bit, inspire some confidence. I may own the places, but I would rather not simply be a ghost behind the machine, know what I mean?” The accountants laugh and Louis does a poor job of hiding a glower.

By the end of the 90 minute lunch, Joseph felt like he could use some brandy himself, or at least a long drought of blood. The sight of such annoying, sleazy men was frustrating to him, and worse was seeing his beloved Master playing along like he was truly one of them. It made his skin crawl. He did enjoy seeing the look on Mr. Lanchester's face, but it was a small consolation. Still, he and the other three slaves did their jobs perfectly, bringing the plates, refilling drinks, and otherwise standing and remaining silent and invisible.

Soon enough the dessert is gone and the last few bits of paperwork are sorted through. Ever the good host Alexi sees the men to the door, shaking their hands on the way out and standing in the doorway until they are all in their vehicles. As soon as the door is closed however Alexi looses his hair and slumps slightly. “Oh, I feel ill. . .” he murmurs and from a little ways away he hears a concerned noise. Looking up he spots Uwin, the haunted look on his face making Alexi wince on the inside. Motioning for the elf to follow he straightens up and leads the young man into a small room normally reserved for when an engineer needs to work away from others.

Once inside Alexi is a little confused as Uwin gives him a quick hug before stepping back and bowing. The elf is quick to explain. “I am sorry Master Alexi, I just, after spending time with other drivers, especially the one who cam with the bright silver car, I just felt so grateful, I just needed. . .” He glances up at Alexi who smiles and nods in understanding.

“I know what you mean Uwin, it is no bother.” Patting the elf on the head he shoos him back to work which he does happily. Feeling quite filthy despite the hug Alexi decides on a quick swim before his next bit if business. Sending Joseph, the cleaning staff, and the kitchen staff a text of thanks, along with a note for Joseph to thank those who helped serve, Alexi makes his way to his room. Once inside he lets out a soft groan and begins shedding his clothes like a python sheds his skin. “If I did not know of the waste it would be, I would have my clothes all burned after a meeting like that. . .” Glancing over at Erik as he reaches the doorway to the bathroom he asks, “Join me for a swim? You do not have to, but I thought I would offer.” He smiles softly, shedding off the last bit before making his way quickly across the tiles, diving into the tub carefully as to not hit the bottom. It is deep around the middle, but unlike some beings living in the house, he can't launch himself out that far even at a dead run.

Joseph could not have been more relieved when he meeting was adjourned. He took one or two compliments on the service and ignored the curious eyes, and finally, he was able to clean off the table in peace. When that was finished, he took off the gloves and the cuff-links and went up the stairs to give Erik his lunch.

~*~*~

To be honest, Erik was more than happy for a bit of time off from his studies, and immediately nodded. Without even considering it, he shed his clothes and climbed straight into the first tub, smiling contentedly.

“How did your meeting with the rich jerks go?” he asked Alexi sarcastically, treading water to sit next to him.

After popping up Alexi paddles around a little, flowing around atop the water with his eyes on the ceiling. At Erik's question he lets out a long sigh and actually settles down along the tub wall beside the vampire. Careful to keep his eyes forward he lets out a groan. “As it always is. Tiring, tedious, and has left me feeling like a man who crawled through sewage. . .” Glancing over at Erik he add sadly, “Uwin was so upset by having to hang around their drivers, a collection of quite misused slaves, that he came to see me after and needed a hug to feel better.” After all the rushing around he decides to actually bathe, grabbing up one of the scrubbing stones it suddenly hits him that Joseph is going to kill him for getting his bandages wet. In his rush, he'd entirely forgotten them. Looking at them now, the water directly around them turning red, he mutters “Drat. . .”

Erik listened to the human's answer, finding it rather interesting. But it was not long before he began to smell the blood.

“Goddamnit Alexi, I didn't notice either. Get out, and sit down on the bench. I'll wash you. I mean, if you want. Otherwise, you should just call Joseph to do it, but I think he'd kill us both for letting you get in the water without more help.”

Crawling out Alexi pouts. “I like my baths. . .” With a sigh he plops down on a bench with his back to Erik. “You can do it if you want. Joseph will be up soon with your lunch and you can trade off then if you feel like it. I need to get washed up quickly seeing as I still have a ton to get done today. . .And do not fret, I will tell him it was my own fault.” Pulling off the bandage on his cheek he runs his fingers over the scratches, looking at himself in the wall mirror in front of him.

Erik strode over to the closet and pulled out two large bath sponges and some liquid soup. Then, he filled a pail of water in a nearby sink and stood behind Alexi. Squirting the liquid into the sponge, he began washing the human's back. It was pretty easy as the vast majority of the cuts were on the front of Alexi's body.

“You're an idiot, you know that Alexi?” he commented sarcastically as he washed the back of the man's neck. “I mean, you're brilliant. But you're also a freakin' idiot.”

~*~*~

Joseph silently enter Master Alexi's room and looked around. It was not difficult for him to figure out that the two men were in the bath house, so he set the tray down and headed over there. Immediately, he smelled Master Alexi's blood in the water and looked down, and saw where Erik was washing the lord. He glared at his master.

“I know being around those... individuals... probably makes you feel horrid, Master Alexi. But did you really have to ruin your bandages?” he asked.

Alexi watches Erik work, flinching now and then as it's becomes quite clear that the vampire isn't use to dealing with such a delicate creature. He does his best to ignore the fact that Erik is nude, but after about a the third flinch he finally begins turning a little rosy “I know I can be foolish sometimes. However, I have always had someone around to clean up when I forget stuff. Case in point.” He points towards Joseph whom he'd caught sight of out of the corner of his eye. Cringing down into his shoulders he murmurs, “Sorry Joseph.” Normally he would have more to say, but at this moment he's simply proud that he hasn't actually moved beyond rosy into somewhere around beet.

Joseph just sighed and removed his butler's jacket so that he would not ruin it from the soapy water. Though his expression remained passive, he could not help but notice the color of Master Alexi's face. Well, that's worrisome. He would pick the absolute most illogical person here to be attracted to. But, that's a problem for another day. He walked over and took the soap out of Erik's hand and began gently scrubbing Master Alexi down himself. Even if his master might have secretly preferred the younger vampire's touch, he was afraid that Erik's roughness would aggravate the wounds.

“Master, these will be healed enough for you to swim within 36 hours,” he commented. “Until then, just please call me in to give you another bath, when you are ready.”

Meanwhile, Erik jumped back into the nearest pool, grinning brightly. He could not find it in himself to worry for Alexi when he brought half his injuries on himself. Besides, he adored swimming.

The sigh issuing from the vampire's lips makes Alexi feel like a child again, that sound reminiscent to all the times Joseph found him doing one fool thing or another. 'Or of all the times I would show up after the fool thing and needed patching up' He smiles happily at Joseph, knowing he only does it because he cares. With a sigh of his own he settles into the far gentler scrubbing, his eyes closing softly as he lets Joseph's kind hands do an amazing job of scraping off the dirty feeling from before.

~*~*~*~*~

Mois looks up at the faint knock at his door. Glancing at the clock he closes his laptop and calls out for whoever it is to enter. 'Must be lunch' He muses, wondering how the meeting with Alexi is going. 'Unless it's over already. I know some business people like eating early. . .' He nods at the young werewolf who delivers the meal, trying to not look as irritated as he feels. The work he's been doing has him quite on edge. Despite his efforts the youth still flees quickly, closing the door softly behind him. The smell of food helps him relax a bit and he wonders vaguely if the soon to be ex-slaves won't try and kill him on the spot after they are released. He knows Joseph will defend him, but. . .Joseph is only one vampire. . .

Joseph finished washing his master and gently dried him with one of the soft towels. Then, he began to re-bandage each of the wounds. Taking one of Master Alexi's robes from a hanger on the wall, he held it up to allow the human to put it on.

“Thank you for finding a way for him to trust you, Master. It is much better to see him like this than the way he was two days ago. I can see the pain it is causing you. But thank you for sparing him the deprivation.”

Erik spent the time swimming around the largest pool, eternally grateful for the excuse to take a break. It was around the time Joseph finished that he decided to get out and put on a robe of his own, though he had not paid attention to anything Joseph had said. He sat down next to the servant and his master, but did not say anything.

Having Joseph dry him as well really makes Alexi feel young and he just revels in the feeling for a time. Even the feeling of being patched up simply adds to the impression of being a child and he doesn't open his eyes, letting reality back in, until Joseph moves off to grab a robe. Standing slowly he moves over to Joseph. As he slips into the fuzzy green thing his movements slow slightly as he listens to the vampire's words, his eyes locked on the subject of Joseph's thanks.

He keeps watching as Erik approaches, tying his own robe with a soft look in his eyes. “I will suffer this gladly Joseph. I too am glad it is being done this way, though it may make some things more difficult. . .” Smiling warmly he kisses Joseph on the forehead and pats his shoulder. “I thank you for you assistance Joseph. Thank you for putting up with my foolishness all these years.” He chuckles, glancing at Erik, waiting to see if he has something to say about this.

Erik smiled slightly at the sight before him. “You two are really adorable,” was all he said, before standing up to grab himself his own fluffy robe. Then, without another word, he wandered back to the desk to change clothes and get back to work.

Joseph smiled and put his own coat back on. “Do you require anything else, Master Alexi?” he asked, bowing slightly and sounding exactly as he had the other thousands of times he had asked the same question

Alexi smiles at being called adorable and watches the younger of the two vampire return to their now shared room. 'Heh, I was sure he would say something to Joseph about my “foolishness”, but I guess he has more important things on his mind' “I am good for now Joseph. When you have time send me the security reports from Souchez and get me all my files and notes on 4118 Filing Co. I need them by the end of the week.”

“Of course,” Joseph muttered, striding off to get back to his own work.

The Rebel Vampire

Joseph looked down towards Alexi's neck and nodded, not meeting his eyes. I know, Master Alexi. I'm doing most of this to myself. It's what I deserve. I do lament that I cannot hide my fatigue from you as easily as I have from my other masters, he followed the human out of the room and locked the door behind him. Within a few minutes, he had already made the proper arrangements with some of the gardeners to have more plants sent to the M’Tinak’s room.

“Leave them outside the door and send me a text when they are there,” he requested to a couple of the wood elf slaves. “I will bring them inside personally. The creature is rather young, and he does not know his own strength. For now, I would rather deal with him myself.” The elves nodded their assent and hurried off, and Joseph left to grab the box from the drawing room, finding it exactly where Master Alexi had specified. For most humans, the box would have been rather heavy, but Joseph carried it with no difficulty.

Erik stood up as the lord of the manor entered, and could not help but notice the way he was bandaged. “What the hell happened to you?!” he demanded, rolling his eyes as he strode over to look closer.

With a chuckle Alexi drops his undershirt, opening the wardrobe and looking for some comfortable pants to wear for the evening. 'Now that all that is over, I can lounge about in my room. . .I think, I will tell Joseph to let Mois in here. After all, with Erik being so tame, it should be alright. . .' In a s lightly dreamy voice he responds. “New slaves today, and one was very rare. I think I earned his trust. . .He is just down the hall, and so, beautiful. . .” Realizing his “Collector spirit” is showing he turns back to Erik with an apologetic smile. “I am sorry, I just, I have only ever seen them in concrete cages with a glass show wall. Being able to at least give an M'Tinak a room, and having him stay there willingly is. . .It is a nice feeling.” He smiles gently, tilting his head to the side. “I am a collector, I can not help feeling excited to have something rare in my possession, even if it is only for a short time.”

Erik listened as Alexi explained himself. He gave a sharp intake of breath at hearing about the creature. They were so rare and secluded that even seeing one was a rare sight. But at Alexi's tone and explanation of his “Collector's mentality” he found himself frowning a little. “I cannot begrudge you your upbringing, not given what you plan to do for us. I am extremely glad that you can see past those instincts though. And, I imagine the M'Tinak is safer here than he is out there.”

Alexi suppresses a giggle at the sound of the gasp from the vampire. 'Do not expect he ever thought to be so near to one. I hear they avoid other magicals as well for safety reasons' He nods slowly, turning back to his wardrobe and stripping off the rest of his now slightly bloody clothing. Thinking for a long moment over what he wants to wear he murmurs, “That is sweet Erik. I can only hope others will be able to accept such sound thinking one day. . . .” Glancing over his shoulder he adds, “After all, I am one of a kind and if any humans plan to survive this, I can see it only due to the good graces of magicals being able to forgive people who never knew what they were doing was wrong. . .”

Turning back to the selection before him he grabs a simple pair of black silk pajama bottoms. As he slips them on he can not suppress the pained noises as his wounds are pulled in the process. Thankfully Joseph did a good job of bandaging him up and he doesn't think that they have torn open. Closing the door he turns around to face Erik. “It was really interesting. It was like talking to a rabid dog with the intelligence and wisdom of a dragon. . .” Alexi has no doubt that there are still dragons in the world, though during the war they were nearly hunted to extinction. No humans bothered even trying to tame them, they simply bombed their layers and harvested the bodies for useful body parts. Or so he's read in a few less credible sources. Elaria told him that most had been killed, though she's never met one personally.

Erik drank a glass of water and listened carefully to the human, finding his description quite interesting. He was not insulted by the description of the M'Tinak as a “rabid dog” because he understood from context that it was not intended as an insult.

“I'm not sure I still believe dragons exist. But, there was a time when humans found the existence of vampires equally unlikely, and it would not surprise me if there were still some of those creatures lurking about in the shadows, unwilling to make themselves known. The few drakes who work with us in the Resistance are incredibly powerful in their own right, though. I've never met a M'Tinak, myself. I don't even know much about them. And frankly, I'm glad. I don't blame them for wanting to stay out of this damn war,” he commented ruefully.

“As far as my forgiveness, I've finally met enough humans over the years that I realize most of them are just apathetic to our plight. They are told by the media that we are just non-sentient savages, and any other idiotic lies to make sure that we are the bogeymen that should be controlled. So many of them cannot help how they were raised, what they were taught. I wish more would help us, but my anger towards them is gone. I only truly enjoy the deaths of those who actively own slaves or fight against us out of hate. I despise killing civilians, but often it can't be helped. With those plans I will have a better chance of finding less deadly ways to reach our objectives, for both sides.”

Alexi smiles softly at the final sentiment, crawling on to his bed and rolling around a little until he's comfortable. In a gentle voice he stares at the wall and asks, “I owned my first slave when I was still in the age of innocence. Would you have hated me then for that?” He doesn't look at Erik, not really thinking seriously about the question, simply posing it to get a feel for the man.

“I would have hated the privilege you were born into, out of a fear that you would never know better, and that you would perpetuate this shitty system. And, being honest with myself, I'm still envious of this luxury. But no, I would not have hated you personally. I don't think I came to hate you personally until you came into the public eye as heir to your father's company, but even then, I hated for what you stood for. Or at least, what you stood for in my eyes. I never imagined that I would be so wrong about someone like you, Alexi Vandros,” Erik replied honestly, sitting up on the couch.

Turning his head slightly to see Erik out of the corner of one eye the human listens silently, suppressing his urge to ramble so that Erik would have a chance to talk. He knows how he works, running conversations, but if he is ever going to give the man the chance to be himself, he knows he needs to start by letting him express himself. 'Then perhaps I will better understand how he handles these intense emotions. . . .' He smiles softly at the mention of luxury. “Well, you should enjoy it while it exists. . .Though, you may live long enough to see the world settle a bit after the war and see such luxury, or at least a shadow of it, live again. . .” he murmurs softly, letting out a sigh. “I am glad you read me that way. It means I was doing things right to keep suspicious eyes away. . . .”

It was only a few minutes later when Joseph knocked softly on the door to the Master’s room and entered quietly, setting the box down on the desk and waiting to until Erik and Master Alexi were finished conversing.

“If I may ask, Alexi, what made you change your mind? Why did you decide to help all of us? I know you told me about your father, but that doesn't sound like enough to me. You don't have to tell me if you don't want to, but I am curious. It takes a lot for humans to overcome their upbringing,” the vampire asked curiously.

“That is a fair question. . .” he replies softly, watching Joseph enter and go about his business. “One I do not have a singular answer to, however I can tell you a little bit of what I remember. Honestly, what got me started was all a blur. . .” Rolling on to his side so he can look at Erik he stretches his uninjured arm up and rests his head on it. He gives the seated vampire a half smile. “What I do remember is that I. . . I always knew what a horrible man my father was. Even if it was not for the slavery thing in general.” He glances at Joseph. “What I also knew, is that Joseph was a far better father to my brother and me than one could ever hope for.” He looks back at Erik with a warm smile.

“There were so many things Joseph could do that father was too foolish or too mad to even comprehend, and when I heard my father was dead and that I was not just seeing things, I thought what a horrible shame it is that the most amazing person I know had to serve that bit of filth, and never take any of the credit he deserves. . .” Letting out a soft sigh Alexi flashes Joseph a smile. “This one here is my real father. . .The one any man would be lucky to have, and in this world as it is he would never get the recognition he deserves. . .No matter how hard I try and beat it into his head how special he is to me.” He chuckles softly at the image of beating love into his mentor before looking back at Erik. “That is the most I can remember. There are other reasons, very vague and mostly lost, but they are still there, somewhere, driving me on. . .”

Joseph listened to Master Alexi, tensing up slightly at the sheer love he expressed for him. I have always wished that you and Mois could truly be my sons rather than my masters. But I never knew if you felt the same way before now. But … I can't... I cannot say that.

“I am glad that you feel that way, Master Alexi,” he replied, bowing low. “I have only tried to do my job and serve you, Master Mois, and this household to the best of my ability. You give me far more credit than I deserve.”

Erik merely stayed silent, floored by the gravity of what Alexi had said. But he felt like speaking now would be intruding on a family moment of which he was not a part, even though is question had been the catalyst.

Smiling up at the elder vampire in the room Alexi lets out a long sigh, realizing that he just laid a lot out there for Joseph to absorb, adding to the ever growing list of revelations the poor vampire has been hit with as of late. “You are amazing Joseph, and even you can't deny that. . .” He whispers before rolling and sitting up carefully. Looking over at Erik he suddenly remembers the younger vampire's request. Looking back to Joseph he adds, “Oh, before you go to bed tonight, could you bring in some notebooks and writing utensils for Erik? He says he will need them to deal with the stuff in the box.”

Slipping his legs over the edge of the bed he begins kicking his legs like a school kid on the bus. “You can open it now if you want Erik. It is all the information I have complied thus far. I planned on adding a bit more before the event, but I think this will keep you occupied for now. . .” His gaze returns to Joseph. “Also, I meant what I said about bed tonight. You need sleep to rest that overworked mind of yours.” His gaze drops down to his feet as they sway gently. “And Mois is now allowed up here, so if he asks. . .Tell him to just be careful. . .” Alexi gets lost in thought, the pain from his wounds meeting up with the pain inside, taking him for a excruciating ride he tries desperately to keep from the other two.

Joseph looked back to Master Alexi with a bit of a guilty look in his eyes. “I shall try to get some sleep tonight, Master. But I have not yet finished my usual chores. I will be sure to sleep once they are finished. If you'll excuse me, I will return with supper for both of you,” Joseph replied quickly, turning to leave the room.

Though Erik was not oblivious to the conversation, he quickly jumped over to look at his shiny new box, which he soon found was full of many of the materials Alexi had promised him. Floor plans, dossiers on prominent businessmen in the slave trade, enough to keep him busy for weeks, just analyzing it.

Lucky for Joseph, Alexi isn't quite there when he replies gets ready to and race out of the room. Instead his hand goes over his mouth and he takes a shuddering breath, trying to keep whatever is left in his stomach down. His glazed eyes drift up a bit on reflex, though he doesn't really see that's before him. There is pain behind the glaze, but he fights desperately not to let it overtake him again.

~*~*~*~*~

Stuffing the last of the folders of information he'll need for his report into his satchel Mois looks once more around the room, the blank staring faces doing nothing to lighten his mood. 'Hopefully, there won't be time for another horror like this to happen before Alexi's plan. . .Though, I think the horror afterwords will be far worse, at that time. . .' He doesn't let his thoughts finish, the truth of his and Alexi's future too much for him to handle. Slinging his bag strap across his chest the worn leather pouch settles against his right hip and without a word to anyone, Mois heads home for the day.

Joseph saw that Master Alexi was in pain, but he also knew that there was little that he could do for him. He returned within ten minutes from the kitchen, bringing soup for the lord of the house and a lovely fish supper for Erik. Setting both trays down on the table, he turned to his master.

“I had them replace your dinner with soup this time, Master. You looked like you should not eat anything solid right now,” he commented softly, handing the human his bowl on a wooden tray. “Please be more careful, my lord, at least while the bonding is in effect. How long is it until the next dose?”

Smiling, Erik grabbed his own tray, eating a few bites of the scrumptious food before continuing to look through the perfectly organized files.

As soon as Joseph is out of the room Alexi looks to the only other inhabitant. A part of him, deep down, wants Erik to notice and offer to help, the kindness shown by the male something that makes him smile. However always the independent male taking things in stride he simply sighs, laying own on his bed with his legs still dangling over the side. He spends the time in silence, once more going over his plan bit by bit, picking at it, looking for flaws, adding new thoughts and information, and as he finds it once more without fault he manages to push away the pain and recover himself by the time his head slave returns.

Sitting up he murmurs a soft thanks and begins eating slowly. “Day after tomorrow, early.” he relies, looking over to see Erik completely caught up in his research, likely not even noticing the food as he eats it. Letting out another small sigh he focuses on his soup, blowing gently on each bite like a child so he can eat it faster.

Joseph was not blind to Master Alexi's glances towards the younger vampire, but he said nothing, for he would never embarrass his master by mentioning the looks with Erik in the room. Instead, he sat down next to the young lord and put a tentative hand on his shoulder.

“I appreciate what you said about me, Master,” he commented quietly, looking straight ahead. “I am pleased to have served you adequately.”

Alexi smiles gently as his once mentor joins him on the bed, trying to be comforting and respectful at the same time. 'I swear, sometimes he is so awkward, it is funny, but mostly, it is just cute' With a faint hum he sets the bowl on his nightstand and simply leans so he is resting slightly against the vampire's arm. He feels the urge to tell the male that “ adequate” doesn't come anywhere near covering Joseph's service, but a part of him knows that Joseph would not accept the praise right now. Instead his gaze returns to the man on the floor pouring over the content of the box like it was some sort of buried treasure.

Joseph turned to his master for a moment, smirking slightly, and allowed himself a brief knowing glance. With that, he stood, strode over to the young vampire on the floor, and knelt down next to him.

“Erik, come on and eat your supper with us. There will be plenty of time to look over those papers in the next couple of weeks, and I will have your notebooks by tomorrow morning. Right now, your food is getting cold,” he requested warmly, meeting the younger vampire's eyes with the perfect comforting smile.

The rebel leader looked up, for a split second seeming annoyed with the interruption. But he listened, and even resisted the urge to argue. He's right. There's no urgency in this. I can be obsessed later. It's not worth fighting about.

“All right, all right, I'm coming,” he groused, standing and picking up his tray and pulling up a desk chair next to Alexi. “The food is good, and the intel is better,” he commented, in between bites, grinning. Joseph simply smiled knowingly.

“Ring me if you need anything else, Young Master,” the vampire servant said as he left, using the old title he had often used for Masters Mois and Alexi when they were children.

Sticking out his bottom lip as he's left alone moments later Alexi picks his bowl back up and continues eating. He listens to Joseph, looking over to see Erik irritated at the interruption. He chuckles silently, knowing how wrapped up in work one can get and how bothersome it is to be suddenly distracted. 'Aww, how sweet He sounds like he use to when trying to convince me to stop working myself into the ground as a child. He always managed to do that without sounding condescending. . .A very interesting and admirable skill' Eating quietly he watches as the younger vampire stands and makes his way over to sit with Alexi, despite it being clear that he doesn't want to.

Alexi still smiles as Erik seriously lays into the food, complimenting it, even if those files on the floor overshadow the finely prepared meal. The human doesn't blame him though. He is happy to see Erik excited for something at least, the smile making his chest feel light. His own smile widens as Joseph uses his old title, the sound of it making him feel a little younger. Glancing at Erik he doesn't bother asking about the papers and what he's going to do with them first, other than read them of course. 'By the time he is free to use the information, I will not be around, so I shall let him share if he wants. It will all be in his hands by then. . .' “I am glad you enjoy both. Do not forget the dipping sauce for the fish. The head cook makes it special for me out of simple ingredients. . .” He smiles warmly at the thought, a part of him wishing he could have some fish too just so he could eat some of the mixture.

Erik smiled, “Do you treat all your prisoners this well?” he asked jokingly. “The sauce is great. Tastes like Old Ben makes at home. Ketchup and mayo.” He paused for a moment. “Are you.. are you feeling all right? I'm used to seeing you sick, but you seem worse right now.”

~*~*~

Joseph was just about to switch gears to one of his usual chores when his phone beeped again. Gorrammit I hate this thing sometimes! he thought privately. The text was just Master Mois saying that he was home and wanted to speak with Master Alexi. Right after I get that … young Master to stop getting himself lacerated, I'm going to get him to start replying to texts from his own brother, the vampire thought, slightly annoyed, as he set his bucket down and walked out to the foyer to meet the elder brother.

“I am as kind as I can be, though not as kind as I wish I could be. . .” He murmurs, sipping at his soup. He waves a hand dismissively. “It is just my stomach. It seems after losing some more blood the physical pain and the pain on the inside have begun conspiring to make me catatonic.” He chuckles, eating a bit more soup while his insides burn happily from being worried over. 'This next dose should really help. If he really is as he seems now when it comes to his feelings about me, this pain should fade, replaced by his new emotions. . .'

~*~*~*~*~

Flipping his phone closed Mois makes his way into the house, not bothering to take off his shoes or jacket, the dirt and bits of rubble still clinging to his hair, skin, and clothing, faint trails of blood from the people he'd pulled out of the wreckage here and there over his upper body. Knowing how Alexi like immediate reports when one of his own buildings have been hit by the rebels he hopes the younger man will be available to talk right away so he can go take a shower afterwords.

Erik had meant the statement as a sarcastic rhetorical question, but he was surprised by Alexi's honest response. “I understand,” was all he said, before continuing to enjoy his meal in silence.

~*~

As Master Mois walked in, Joseph took one look at his disheveled state and greeted him with a bow and a worried look.

“Master... I … would you like some tea or coffee while you greet Master Alexi? And where would you like to eat your supper?” His voice was laced with a concern that he did not wish to show, and he thought that it would be rude to comment on the elder master's appearance.

Mois shakes his head. “Where is Alexi. I have something urgent to report right away.” His voice is soft and a little hollow

~*~*~*~*~

Alexi eats slowly, glancing at Erik every so often, wondering about the male, but also wanting to let him eat.

“Master Alexi is in his room.... with a guest,” Joseph replied, keeping his head bowed. He hated it when there was nothing he could do to help. Quickly, he led Mois to Alexi's room and held open the door, closing it behind the two of them after they entered.

Erik looked up at the new arrivals, and could not help but notice Mois' state. But he stayed silent for once, only standing up to take a closer look at the man.

Mois nods, moving swiftly towards the stairs leading to Alexi's floor, a bit curious as to why Joseph is not stopping him. Alexi wanted to keep him away from his room for a good reason, at least in his younger brother's eyes, and Mois is passingly curious, however the task at hand takes precedent. Following close behind Joseph he follows the vampire into his little brother's room, stepping to the side so Joseph can close the door. He glances briefly at Erik but his gaze does not linger, instead locking on to his less than stellar looking sibling. He can feel his worry rising but as Alexi's eyes narrow, looking over his disheveled appearance, he remains calm and focused.

Alexi is shocked to say the least, though this is not the first time he's seen his brother in such a state. Needing the facts quickly and in full, along with his brother's eyewitness account which of course will fade in clarity as time passes, Alexi has seen Mois like this more than a dozen times. However, in his weakened state he can not help how the the image to makes his stomach drop a bit. “Report.” He orders softly. And with a nod Mois complies.

“At approximately three fifteen this afternoon a rebel group attacked one of you factories located in the Shuba district.” His voice sounds cold, a simple reading of facts without any personal bias. “A missile, possibly more than one, was launched from an unknown location and completely destroyed the building down to it's foundation. The basement was intact and many slaves managed to survive the attack along with a handful of humans who had been down there at the time, however of the four-hundred and sixteen workers, magicals and humans, only twenty seven in total survived.”

Alexi keeps his eyes up, his expression impassive despite the news that over three-hundred lives were lost. “The survivors?” he asks, just as softly.

“Most did not sustain serious injury, however a few slaves attacked the humans out of fright, killing three of them, and the rest got out with a variety of minor to moderate wounds.” Despite his impassive face Mois can see the toll the report is taking on his brother. However, ever the good soldier, he waits until the report is over and he is relieved to do anything.

Alexi lets out a sigh, dropping his gaze to the floor as his soup threatens to climb back up his throat. “Shuba. . .That would be. . .The security system factory.” Glancing at Erik he murmurs, “The stuff in the walls and on the grounds to help make sure the devices on the grounds all do their jobs. . .” He lets out another sigh, looking back at his brother. “The paperwork?” Mois nods, pulling out all relevant files and hands them to Joseph. He is unsure if Alexi will let him approach the rebel leader so he plays it safe and let's Joseph deliver the files when it's time. With a soft smile Alexi carefully climbs to his feet, walking gingerly across the carpet until he's standing in front of his older sibling.

With a final sigh he wraps his arms around the filthy man's neck and lays his head in the crook of it. Mois does not move for a moment, then with his hands still in place behind his back he lowers his own head to rest on his little brother's shoulder. After a few seconds the moment passes and Alexi pulls back, Mois straitening up and dropping his hands to his side. Alexi gives his brother a strained smile, running his hands through Mois' hair, giving him a good view of Alexi's new bandages. Before he can comment however the younger male murmurs, “Use my bath tonight. You deserve it. . .” Mois nods, closing his eyes and rubbing them with the fingers of his right hand like a weary old man. With his smile still in place Alexi returns to the bed carefully and flops down on it, his legs danging over the edge while he tries to process the information. Mois finally looks to the vampire, the only expression in his eyes a staunch determination.

Erik listened to the story with a stern look on his face and his arms crossed. Though he listened to the exchange between Mois and Alexi with seemingly little emotion, there was a wild anger in his eyes, one that Alexi and Joseph would recognize from when he was first chained up. When Mois was finally finished, he turned his head away for a few moments.

“FUCK!” the vampire screamed, closing his eyes and breathing deeply. “I begged him not to! I told him not to use the bombs unless no one was in the facility! He said that it was for the greater good, and that not many slaves would die. FUCKING IDIOT!” He sank back down onto the bed, staring down at his knees, breathing deeply and just letting the pain and anger wash through him. He did not even notice that he had not introduced himself to the man who had taken him down. “Fuck. Fuck. Fuck!” he muttered. He put his elbows on his knees and sank his head into his hands. “Bastard wouldn't listen to me.” Tehras is a fucking idiot. I've been at this forty years longer than he has and he still doesn't fucking listen! We are already the bad guys! Needless civilian loss, not to mention needless slave loss, just makes us look more like the criminals than we already do! When you have such powerful weapons at your disposal, you CANNOT act with such anger. You just can't. You must temper it with rationality. Fucking idiot...

Alexi had expected a strong reaction of of his “Guest” but still, he twitches and tenses when he begins screaming and yelling. Other than upset new slaves, sounds like this have not been heard in this manor in quite some time and the boys are both loath to hear them again. Mois tenses automatically but seeing Alexi simply settle back into the mattress a bit he relaxes and watches the angry vampire. A part of him hopes that Erik will give up some little hint as to who was responsible, or at least where the bastard is, however as his own anger boils at the idea of Erik knowing that this might happen and not saying anything despite his obviously more trusted state right now.

After seeing so much death his anger does not last long, overridden by his disgust and sorrow for all who lost their lives. He keeps his eyes on the rebel leader though. He trusts Alexi's judgment but no one knows what another will do under extreme emotions, and Erik is obviously beyond upset. Alexi on the other hand does his best to fight off his inner demons enough to actually move rather than lay there like a lump. Sitting up he looks vaguely confused, his gaze locked on the distraught vampire, unsure of how to handle his anger. When it came to his father, fleeing was the right answer. When it came to slaves, control devices and soft voices was normally the right way to go. However with Erik Alexi is at a bit of a loss.

Drawing on his memories of what Joseph would do for him Alexi reaches out carefully and places a hand in the middle of the vampire's back. “There are a lot of fools in the world, and when fools are given power, one can only expect them to act foolishly.” he murmurs softly, hoping the quote will help, or at the least make sense. “And you can't expect a fool to accept he is being foolish. It's not in their nature. . . .” Mois nods slowly, agreeing with what Alexi has to say, but a new wave of confusion passes through him as he sees how tenderly his brother is treating his newest acquisition. He's seen Alexi be tender with children or weak slaves, however Erik is neither.

The vampire felt the hand on his back, but did not lean into Alexi's side, but neither did he turn away. He just sat there, eyes closed, face torn up in pain the he still did not know how to hide as well as the others in the room. I could have stopped it. I could have challenged Tehras. Somehow. Ahh, fuck... that's fucking bullshit too and you know it. It doesn't matter how much power you have. There was no way to stop this, no way short of ratting out the whole cell.

“Fools shouldn't be given power. Whether that Leader was a fool... I can't answer that, and I knew him better than either of you,” he replied coldly.

Joseph looked upon the scene with interest, but he was detached enough to avoid the pain. His concern was for Masters Mois and Alexi, and to an extent, Erik. He did not know what to think, or what to say, so he just strode over and put his hand on Master Mois' shoulder.

“Sorry. . .” Alexi murmurs, taking the cold tone as one of offense, the stress of the day finally beginning to put his brain in shut down. Retracting his hand quickly he scoots away from Erik, drawing his knees up to his chest before falling on to his side, his head resting on his pillows. Mois recognizes Alexi going into shut down and wonders what else has put such a strain on his dear little brother. The touch of Joseph's hand is comforting but his worry over Alexi keeps him tense.

Getting the feeling that Alexi isn't quite thinking straight he calls out softly, “I don't think he was offended. . .” Though a good judge of character, Mois can not be completely sure so he glances at Erik to see how he responds.

Feeling too drained by the sudden shock, mixed with everything else that has happened, Alexi simply murmurs, “Whatever. . .” burying his face in his knees.

Erik reached out and put his hand back on Alexi's side. “I wasn't offended. I was just talking, thinking out loud,” he agreed awkwardly, looking at the poor human. Turning to the elder brother, he commented again.

“Sometime, not right now, I'd like to talk with you, Mois. Two sides of this shitty war. The man who took down the Great Leader and Commander Erik Schumann,” he said ruefully. “I'm curious to know the first person to capture me in two centuries.”

Alexi relaxes slightly at the touch, his face coming out of his knees and his hand coming up to scratch at his bandages. He can't help but chuckle lightly at Erik's words to his brother, the chuckle turning into a yawn after a couple seconds, his brain feeling like jelly. 'This. . . Really is not healthy. . .'

Noting the laugh Mois nods slowly. “It was not easy, but what Alexi wants he gets.” For some reason he wants his loyalty to his brother clear to the man who may very well take his brother's life a hand full of weeks from now. Turning to Joseph with a slightly softer look in his eyes he reaches out, squeezing the vampire's shoulder before making his way towards the bathroom. “Please grab me something to wear back to the hut.” he murmurs before vanishing from sight. Alexi groans, scratching at his bandages still, and from the open doorway Mois' voice echoes, “Alexi, you're only making it worse.”

Whining Alexi sticks out his tongue but tries to stop. “I know, but it itches. . .” There is a definite pout in his voice.

“Well, grow up and deal with it, you big baby,” Erik shot back teasingly. “Your only other option is to stop messing around with magicals that have claws.”

Joseph merely hastened off to grab some of Mois' house clothes from the laundry room and returned within a few minutes. Nodding briefly to Master Alexi, he strode into the bathroom with the pile and placed them down on the table.

“Do you need anything else, Master Mois? Supper will be delivered to your apartment and waiting on a hotplate by the time you get out.”

Alexi lets out a light groan, slowly burrowing his way under his covers before murmuring, “These are bites. . .'[/i] He hisses softly as one of the bandages catches on his covers and tugs his shoulder wound open a little. With a soft sight he presses his hand over the bandage, letting the gaze soak up the blood so his sheets are spared as mush blood as possible. With a murmured “Good night.” Alexi is one more pulled into a pain and weariness induced exhausted sleep.

~*~*~*~*~

Mois does not hear his brother's quiet reply and he knows that whatever it is Alexi would at least try to stop. Despite the younger brother being the head of the house and the one to normally give orders, he still listens to his older brother when he knows it's good for him. As he slowly peels off his layers his eyes land on the clothes piled on the floor, his eyes narrowing as he recognizes the black lump of cloth as the same thing Erik is wearing now. The addition of his brother's shirt tells the next part of the story, and when he spots a mop laying about the elder wonders if there is any way to get the story of what happened out of Alexi anytime soon.

He disrobes as he walks slowly towards the largest tub, knowing that it's against the traditions the room entails, but not really caring at the moment, just wanting to get clean. As he strips off the last bit, letting it drop to the near pristine floor, he glances over his shoulder at the tail of filth he left. 'Even at his filthiest, Alexi's never left such a mess in his life' He muses silently. Grabbing up a basket of soaps and hair cleansing products from the other tubs Mois slips into the big one and watches the ripples carry dust and blood out across the surface. 'But, that's what I'm here for. I'm here to take all the blood and grime, to be his knight' He lets out a single “Hah.” at that last thought and the images it conjures and relives that it's very true for the post part. 'Alexi would love the sentiment. . .' When Joseph enters and delivers his clothing Mois spares him a glance and a slightly sad look. “I'm fine Joseph, you can go. . .” he says before turning back and watching the scum half circle around him grow bigger and bigger.

The vampire servant nodded and turned to leave. I wish I could have been there to help them. For all the harm Master Mois does, his job does allow him to save lives too. I think my strength could have done some good there. But he would never say his thoughts.

“Goodnight, Master Mois,” he said warmly, and walked out, mentally adding scrubbing the bathroom to his ever growing to-do list.

Meanwhile, Erik turned away from the resting Alexi and put both trays on the table, deciding to get into bed himself. It had been a long day, and his mind had much to contemplate. He was unsure what to think now. In one day, he'd gone from furious at the eccentric billionaire to appreciating him. It was too much, too fast, and so he crawled back into his comfortable queen-sized bed, and fell asleep.

Mois doesn't bother to reply, knowing Joseph is busy and likely knows the sentiment is returned anyways. He takes his time bathing, his day off tomorrow letting him stay up as late as he likes. He thinks on a lot of things while bathing, but like the crud he's scrubbing off each subject seems to float away from him leaving him stuck on the same issue he's been stressing over since Alexi had told him the final stages of the plan. However, ever the dedicated sibling, he still can not bring himself to go beyond feeling sad for what is about to happen. Once clean he drags himself out of the tub, dries off, and slips into his clothing before heading back through his brother's room. Spotting both inhabitants asleep he sighs softly, noting that no one bothered to turn the lights off.

Going around the room he turns of all but Alexi's door side bedside table. Saving that one for last he carefully climbs on to the soft sheets. Leaning over Alexi he brushes a little of his hair back from his face before pressing a kiss to the younger male's forehead. “Good night, little brother. . .” He murmurs softly, casting a glance at Erik before sliding off the bed and turning off the lamp. Making his way out of the room and down the hall he glances back once, his mind in quite a muddle, but as he recalls the look on Alexi's face, that determination he'd had when he told Mois for the first time what he planned on doing the man lets his gaze drop to the floor and he leaves for his own abode without further delay.

Joseph left quickly and went to his apartment to begin some of his administrative duties. The North Wing can be left alone for tonight. I need to come up with some new ideas for where I'm going to fit the new ones in, he thought wearily. Maybe I can give some of my cleaning work to Natya. Master Alexi is going to drive me mad before he sets the others free.

Later that night he sneaked into the master's room to drop off Erik's notebooks, clean up the room and bathroom, and remove the trays. Even after ignoring the North Wing, it was still 6 hours later, approximately 3 AM by the time he fell asleep. He set his alarm for 7. One of the fouler inventions humans came up with, these things, the elder vampire thought as he fell asleep.

~*~*~

It was early the next morning when Erik awoke with a start. Fuck. I have to start looking at that paperwork. How could I have let myself fall asleep instead of doing it last night?! he thought as he jumped out of bed and walked over to the box, noticing the pens and notebooks. Impressive, Joseph. I have great hearing and I didn't even hear you. Noting the lack of light, he walked into the bathroom. The vampire closed the door, turned on the lights, and began working at a side table that held some towels. He was still pouring over the documents when Alexi woke up.

With a grumpy sound Alexi begins waking up, the toll on his body clear when even the expensive super comfortable bed did little during the light to ease his aches and pains. He tosses and turns beneath the covers and lets out small sounds of complaint. However after a few minutes of this his mind returns to full speed and he throws the covers back. 'I have a meeting this evening here at the manor for some of my accountants, a little rug-rat down the hall to spend some time with, the added bonus of the paperwork from the attack to go over, and I still need to manage to eat three solid meals and get in some exercise if I am going to be ready for tomorrow morning's dose. . .Oh, and I need to talk to Elaria about a laptop. . .'

Slipping out of bed he clicks on one of his lamps, glancing over to see Erik already up and nowhere to be seen. He doesn't panic however, trusting that Joseph set the system up right and the furthest the vampire could be would be the bathroom. Glancing at the closed door he smiles, wandering over to his wardrobe to pick out what he wants to wear for the morning before lunch. After lunch he'll change into something more formal, but for now he decides to be comfy. Slipping into some gray riding pants, a white poet's shirt with a simple black and gray vest over it he closes the wardrobe and decides to at least greet Erik before he heads out for another hectic day.

Grabbing up his own stack of paperwork Joseph left behind about the attack the master of the house slips into his bathroom, taking a few moments to let his eyes adjust to the sunlight before walking over to check on the rebel leader. His eyes glance over the papers, files, and folders scattered along the folding table and wonders what system Erik is using or if he's just trying to read them all first. He stops on the other side of the box, settled on the floor and containing only a fraction of what it once did. Crossing his arms over his middle he murmurs, “Good morning Erik. I trust you slept well?”

“You know, you dress like a man who's got more money than sense,” Erik muttered, taking a sip of his water and turning to his eccentric captor. “I slept okay. Can't wait for some blood with breakfast. Getting tired already. I don't even know what to do with half of this stuff. It's going to take me days and days of full time work to sort it out. I'm used to having some help with military plans, you know?”

“Well, despite the truth of that, I think though I have less sense than money I have enough money that I still have more sense than most people.” He murmurs in response to the clothes thing. He smiles softly. “Joseph will know what you need, and he should be in soon with your breakfast.” His voice becomes soft and he adds, “I do not know about military planning so much but you know I am good at planning in general. If there is anything you think I could help with. . .”

Erik chuckled, “Good point,” he muttered, smirking a bit. “I know. And thanks for the offer. I'm still trying to organize all of this in my head though, see what's available. There's enough information for about a dozen missions in here. Can't expect me to figure all of that out at once. I guess I can move to that nice desk now, though. Now that you're up.”

Sensing that Erik is in busy mode Alexi offers him a final smile and begins making his exit. He pauses in the doorway to his room. “I will have one of the headlamps the underground workers use brought up by tonight so you do not have to escape to the bathroom for light while I sleep.” With that said he slips into his room and puts on his slippers before shuffling out into the hall. Deciding to check on the youth down the hall first he lets out a sigh and tries to press back the unpleasantness of the night before, instead focusing on the tasks the day has laid out for him. 'I have too much to do to let this pain overwhelm me again. I can do it, if I just let it fall back. . .' He muses, unlocking Riley's door with a pass code, closing the door quickly before turning around to face the mess.

You know, you sure are pretty damn nice for a guy who compared me to a chained mutt when I first got here,” he muttered, but Alexi had already left. Sighing, he began to gather his papers into small piles and bring them all over to the desk in Alexi's room. “I hate paperwork,” he muttered, but secretly he was smiling. It felt really great to be doing something besides just reading again.

After only about five seconds Alexi is laid out on the floor with an excited Riley lapwing at his back, wondering if he's okay. Alexi takes a moment to regain his breath before rolling over, knocking Riley off who erupts in giggle growls. The mess is extensive and the human sits up more to get off of something sharp than any actual desire to. The M'Tinak crawls up to him, pushing on his chest and staring into his eyes as if trying to read his very soul. Alexi looks back with a smile and pats the little one on the head. After simply staring for a while Riley alms and sits back, a faint noise coming from his wigs as they vibrate gently.

“Room is bigger than cell, but still cell. No plants, all alone. I don't want here. . .” Despite missing several words in his sentences, sounding almost like a toddler, his speech is very clear and concise, unlike a toddler's. Alexi smiles.

“Yes, little one, it is a cell, bu-” Riley interrupts.

“Not little one, Riley! You said Riley my name, not little one!” He blinks rapidly, his gaze curious despite not actually asking a question.

Alexi's smile widens. “Yes, you name is Riley. I simply call most who look young to me little one because it is a fond way to refer to children.”

Riley looks to the ceiling, muttering if his own tongue for a few seconds before saying, “Fond, like, attracted to, affection. . .” He looks to Alexi. “You feel affection? For me? Because I am little, am young?”

Alexi nods. “I enjoy the company of children. I am glad they are not in a bad place and that I can help them not be so sad. . .” Riley once more takes to staring and Alexi settles in for the long haul.

Joseph had gotten up, spoken with the gardening crew, and had come up with a wide assortment of plants to bring to Riley's room, along with several other slaves to help bring them in. He knocked and entered the room with the others not five minutes after Master Alexi had arrived.

“I apologize for not having these sooner, Riley, Master Alexi. I was working on other tasks last night, and most of the gardening crews prefer early mornings and sunlight. It was too late to contact them,” Joseph explained, bowing low to the master of the house. “Do you want them in any particular places, Riley?” he asked. Most of the other slaves, knowing little of the M'Tinak or the situation, found the state of the room shocking. The interest Master Alexi and Joseph were taking in this creature, well beyond that of a “normal” slave, was even more so.

The knock startles them both and in a flash Riley is on a wall, blending in so that he can not be seen. Alexi manages to get to his feet before any of the gardening staff enter and he stands with a light smile at the sight of the plants. Anticipating Riley's next move he manages to turn around and catch the beast as he launches himself at them with a squeal. The garden staff look shocked, one young girl almost dropping the fern she's carrying however at the sight of Master Alexi cradling the clawing Riley carefully she calms down.

To answer Joseph's question Riley whines and stares at Alexi. He's not sure how but after a moment the master of the house seems to understand. With a smile he turns to the staff, “Just leave them here in this clear space, Riley will want to decorate his own room.” Looking to Joseph he looks a little confused and adds, “A climbing vine too, something that can cling to flat surfaces. . .I think. . .” He looks back to Riley, wondering why he can understand, and also amazed and excited at it.

Joseph turned to the gardeners. “Vatanen, you're in charge of that, and any other requests from Master Alexi or from Riley on this matter, all right?” the vampire ordered. “Permission to be dismissed, Master?” he asked, bowing once again, making sure to stay as formal as possible in front of the other slaves. The minor liberties he took with the master in private were not at all appropriate here.

“You are free to go.” He murmurs, watching the gardening staff shuffle out with slight bows after delivering their burdens. “Also, I would like to see Elaria in thirty minutes. My private study.” Riley claws the air trying to get to the plants but Alexi holds him until everyone is out and the door is closed. Once free the little guy runs over tot he ferns and small potted plants and races around them happily. Alexi watches with an amazed look as they all seem to grow a little bit, shivering like a soft breeze is passing through the room though the air is still.

It takes a few minutes for Riley to calm down, but by then there is a knock at his door which sends Riley again to the wall. Alexi takes the proffered pot with the small cutting and thanks the gnome quietly. Turning around he almost jumps out of his skin when Riley is standing right there. Without a word Riley takes the pot gently and moves to a back corner of the room, out of sight behind a pile of broken bed pieces.

Joseph nodded and left the room with the gardening staff, closing the door behind him. Taking an underground tunnel, he made his way to the garage, to check on Elaria, and of course, her new friend.

“Elaria, may I speak with you for a moment?” he called into the small hole in the floor. The gold drake slithered up and transformed into her human form, grinning mischievously, if still in a rather groggy state.

“Yes, Mr. Joseph?” she replied brightly, yawning contentedly.

“Hello Elaria. Would you be available within half an hour? Master Alexi would like for you to meet him in his study. He would like to discuss a private matter with you,” the vampire announced with little preamble.

Elaria's lazy satisfied grin slips into a serious line and she nods, vanishing back down her hole a moment later. She gives a few last minute orders to her new plaything about doing as he's told before slipping back out and rummaging around in the corner from something to wear out of the shed. The rest of the staff who sleep there toss stuff in a pile there every so often so it's there when she needs it. Since she hates the crisp clean look the rumpled up pile suits her nicely.

~*~*~*~*~

Staring at the spot Riley vanished Alexi waits silently, wondering what's about to happen. Then with a light gasp he watches as vines begin growing right up the wall, spreading across the ceiling a little bit before stopping. A few vines dangle down from the ceiling and as Riley bound back into sight they sprout little flowers. Alexi smiles wide at the little guy and over the next half an hour helps him set up his room. “Vine will grow more, cover ceiling, make all green and red and pink. Pretty. Safe.” Alexi nods, feeling like he can't wait to see the room when it's done.

“Thank you, Elaria,” Joseph replied. He had exited the room while the drake had changed, but now he walked with her through the underground passage to meet Master Alexi. “Is your new friend adjusting well?” he asked.

“He's young, obedient. I like him. He's definitely very enthusiastic, in a good way.” She smirks, adjusting her simple button up and cutoff jean shorts so the sit better on her slender frame.

You practically make him sound like a slave, Joseph thought, but he knew better than to insult the customs of a species that he could never understand. “I'm glad you are enjoying his company.” In truth, he was slightly envious. He could count on one hand the number of sexual encounters he'd had in his life. Hard breaking tended to remove non-ordered sexual desires, and since he'd been the head slave, he had decided that such relationships would be inappropriate. Not that he'd ever admit it, but he was a little lonely, even if it was by choice.

In the time she's been on the grounds Elaria has never had a partner, not for lack of drive, but because her kind can only have sex in their natural forms, and such a form would likely kill any but a drake during such activities. However, her first time as a thinking female was good and for a moment she wonders about the male at her side. 'I've never smelled sex on him, and I can smell that a mile away. I wonder. . . .He's attractive an all. . . Is he like Master Alexi? Just, no desire for it? That feels so odd since I know Vampires are quite passionate. . . .' She shrugs it off and keeps walking on in silence a few minutes. Once they enter the house proper she turns to Joseph, her eyes a little startled. “Why do I smell Mater Alexi's blood?!” She hisses quietly.

“Riley sliced him up a little bit. Nothing to worry about really. Master Alexi was just ...” Joseph stopped himself. One did not criticize the master aloud, at least not to other slaves, even ones as trusted as Elaria. “Riley is a child M'Tinak. I don't think he understands his own strength yet.”

Upon hearing that it was the M'Tinak who did it Elaria relaxes with a sigh. “No, no, those guys know their strength. . .Does Mater Alexi now have a cut on his face? Is the M'Tinak no longer upset?”

“I figured, Elaria. But he was scared and angry. I think he is warming up to Master Alexi, though. He still does not like us very much, but he is not violent,” Joseph replied as they walked. “And yes, he scratched the master's face. Does that mean something?”

Elaria nods, now smiling slightly. “Yeah, it does. Since they are only violent to outsiders, if he's calming down now that means Master Alexi did his research. The face scratch was basically a question. Like, 'Are you different from me?' or 'Do you separate yourself from me?'. If he's calming down, that means Master Alexi didn't respond and stayed calm. Think of it like a show of faith.” She glances at Joseph with a knowing smile. “I know we both hate him getting hurt, but in this case, it's a good thing Mr. Joseph.”

~*~*~*~*~

With everything now to Riley's liking Alexi bids the little one farewell, locking the door behind him as he heads out to go meet with Elaria. Making sure he can see the beast toying with his fern before he closes the door he smiles at the sight and gently pulls the door closed. 'He is so cute. . .' With such a pleasant happening Alexi does not even feel the pain for a while. However just outside his study on the top floor he recalls all he needs to do today and it begins throbbing at the back of his brain along with his brand new headache.

“Fascinating,” Joseph replied. “I'm glad he's seen that the master is trustworthy. I'd rather avoid having to send him to the hospital for more severe lacerations.”

They walked in silence the rest of the way, and Joseph bowed slightly to Elaria when they reached Master Alexi's office. “Good luck. You know how to reach me if necessary.”

Elaria returns the bow before heading into the study. Alexi is at the giant window, looking down on the yard, his gaze a million miles away. The drake recognizes the look and quietly takes a seat, waiting for him to return from his trip. When as last he turns around he does not look surprised at all to see her. “On time, as always.” he murmurs with a smile. She returns his smile with a half smile and points at his cheek.

“Little initiation there, huh Master Alexi?” He tone is casual, but respectful.

Alexi nods, chuckling. “Yes. Riley may not actively like me yet, however I am no longer an enemy.” She nods, looking him over with a critical eye. He recognizes the look and waves it off with a hand. “Yes, I know, I have other problems, but that is not why I asked you here.” She takes him at his word and sits up a little straighter. Lacing his fingers together atop the desk he turns to business mode. “I need you to write a program for a lap top that will allow my guest to find the information he needs, without getting traced, detected, and does not allow said guest to put any information out there, anywhere. This also needs to be able to get them around sites that require log ins.”

Elaria's eyes light up. “In other words, you need me to make a ghosting program?” She sounds excited and intrigued by the idea her fingers already itching at the idea.

Alexi nods and she slips out of her seat. He watches as she closes the curtains then comes over and gives him a half hug. As he returns the hug he murmurs, “Still do not want the newbies knowing how soft you are for a human, huh?” She lets out a faint growl before taking a knee to look up at Alexi.

“More like I don't wanna jeopardize your work by having some paparazzi catching sight of you being such a nice guy.” she murmurs, looking up at him with that curious expression once more. “How long?”

The simple question packs a lot of different emotions, not the least of which is sorrow, however it is overshadowed with pride. It's his turn to half smile and he touches her head gently. Despite how much respect he has for her, and how much older she is, he will always see her as a younger sister. “Not too long. My guest is a lot more persuasive than I thought and with the new arrangement it should only take a handful of weeks at most.” His voice softens, “Will you miss me Elaria?”

She nods, a gentle expression in her eyes before standing and looking down at him like an older sister berating her younger brother. “Though not as much as some you know. In all of this, it's the only part I disapprove of. You should. . .” He voice trials off as a flash of something she doesn't recognize crosses his features.

Alexi fights back the pain but she sees it anyways. It passes quickly and he's able to brush it off for now. “I am sure you will guess what that is, and as you know it will not ruin the plan. I will simply suffer a bit before, and even you must agree that it is not unjust?” She glowers a little but nods, giving him another half hug before heading off to do as he asked. Alexi sits in the dim room for several minutes before with a long sigh he gets up, ready to deal with the next thing on his list.

Joseph went about a rather uneventful morning. He served Erik his breakfast, a huge omelet with fresh salmon on the side, with his own jug of orange juice and a large glass of fresh blood. But the younger vampire was too distracted with his new work to do more than mutter “Thank you” and merely took the blood and orange juice to the desk with him, leaving the scrumptious dish.

“Don't work too hard. You're still in here for a few more weeks. When you're ready to eat, please take a break. It's better for your stress,” Joseph suggested calmly. “Also, I'll have some normal clothes for you by tomorrow.” Erik finally turned to the elder vampire.

“Thanks, I'll try to calm down. I really do appreciate all your help, Joseph. I'm just distracted at the moment,” he muttered, turning back to the detailed schematic he was trying to decipher. Joseph bowed and left the room, heading over to deliver the same breakfast to Master Alexi in his private dining room.

He knocked twice and entered, carrying the usual silver tray, bowed, and silently began setting up the food in front of Master Alexi. It was only when he was finished that he began speaking.

“Master, the auction report has been uploaded to your computer. I hope you'll find the deals I made acceptable.”

Walking into his private dining room Alexi lets out a sigh at seeing that breakfast has as of yet to be served. 'It means a have a few moments. . .' he muses, taking his seat and letting his head sink down onto his arms as he crosses them and lays them on the table. His thoughts stray this way and that, and he smiles every once in a while when his favorite people come to mind. His muted joy over the fact that they will be free one day is enough to relax his hurried thoughts. 'Even though Mois may not be a slave, right now he is bound to me. For all intents and purposes, he is a slave in his own way. I do not ask him to be this way, but I will not turn down his absolute devotion while I have it. . .'

~*~*~*~*~

Said devoted brother is just now making his way pout of his room, wearing simple sweats and a hoodie like he enjoys on his days off. Dressed in all black he looks a little like a modern age grim reaper, though Alexi has more of death's complexion. Deciding the best way to wake up is a little exersize he heads out, jugging across the lawn instead of walking, glancing at the slaves already hard at work and making his way inside throught he garden entrance rather than the garage entrance. He takes a few minutes to cool down, stretching just inside and looking out at the garden staff hard at work.

~*~*~*~*~

When at last his meal arrives Alexi sits up with a smile and takes in a deep breath, letting the smell of the food wake up his senses a bit more. “Looks delicious.” he murmurs, looking over the fine meal. Looking over at Joseph he nods, looking less dreamy and more business. “I will look it over after breakfast, and I am sure you did fine. After I am done I will look over the rest of the sales made and make a few more files for my guest's collection.” His voice is soft and he chuckles softly.

“Will Master Mois be joining you this morning?” Joseph asked innocously.

Alexi lets out a sigh, picking up his fork. “Should be. It is his day off today. He may be a little late though.” Poking at his omelet he murmurs, “Can you thank the staff for me? That always get frightened when I try to do it myself. . .”

Joseph nodded, quickly listening for footsteps and checking the room before he spoke. “Of course, Master. I'll tell them. You've done a good job of hiding your true nature from them. Even from me. Until you told me, I never had an inkling of what you were going to do. And it's so obvious now.”

Alexi nods in thanks, then shoots Joseph a sharp look. It is not angry, in fact it's more calculating and approving than anything else. In a soft voice he says, “It is not hard to grow up acting like a money grubbing piece of filth growing up around father and his friends.” Reaching out he touches Joseph's arm with a smile. “Lying to you was no treat Joseph. I am sorry.” He looks up with one of his childish smiles, one that seems to know that he's already forgiven, if only because it was done for a good reason.

“I never thought you were a money-grubbing piece of filth, Master Alexi. You've never been anything like your father. I feared that you were mildly selfish and apathetic, but not cruel. You have never been cruel to us,” he replied warmly. “I want to apologize for doubting you about your guest. I should have trusted you, Master. And I should have understood your plan long ago, or at least before it hit me yesterday evening.” He bowed low again.

“I appreciate that Joseph, thank you. . .” he murmurs. With a light chuckle he adds, “And I am selfish. Always have been. I do not fault you for your doubts.” Touching Joseph's shoulder he turns to look as Mois enters.

A look passes between he brothers bringing a smile to Mois' lips before he takes his seat opposite Alexi. “Good morning Joseph.” the newcomer says, still smiling lightly, stealing Alexi's spoon to carve out a bit of his omelet while he waits. For a moment it's almost as if they are pre-teens again as Alexi objects and pouts, waving a hand over his meal to keep Mois away. It has been many years since they have acted like this. In fact the last Mois can recall is before the incident with their father.

Damnit, I should have gotten Master Mois' plate instead of wasting Master Alexi's time, Joseph thought. But despite his concern, he could not help but smile at the was the two brothers could still joke like they had as children. He scurried out of the room to retrieve the elder brother's tray and returned in only a few minutes, along with a mug of coffee and a jug of orange juice.

The Power of The Fallen ~ PopeAlessandros x AkiBlue

Homura returns the hug slowly, his eyes still gazing over his brother's shoulder and Kuro has to refrain from chuckling. 'Do not need to encourage him, or Dani' He knows that if either of them are ever going to take Aoba seriously, he has to hide his own amusement to discourage them from treating the angel like a thing. No sooner does he say this than the feathered male backs down from his stance slightly and Kuro once more has to hold his tongue. 'Little Mouse, you can not keep giving in to the puppy dog eyes! You will forever be putty if you're always giving in. . . . .' Again though, he does not say this aloud, instead letting Homura go to get his new prize. He presses his hand gently to the wing space on his older brother's back to calm him down before going around to check on the animals.

The eldest demon in the barn reaches out, brushing his fingers over the feathers ever so lightly. 'I know their wings are more durable, but if I damage them, he may not let me touch them again. . . .This feels like those bird things Issho use to bring me to play with and practice seeing! Such little lives there, but this. . .This feels off' His head tilts to the side in confusion. 'This doesn't feel like. . .' A moment later though he is distracted by Aoba's question. He pauses, ready to answer, but then it goes on to say never mind. Letting out a faint coo he looks at Kuro curiously.

“He wants to know, but asking a blind guy how he sees is considered rude I guess.” Kuro murmurs, patting one of the pigs who doesn't look to happy about it.

“Oh. . .” He murmurs, looking back at Aoba. “That's weird. . .” He shrugs, going back to playing gently with the wings. As he does he begins explaining the best he can. “I can't see things without life in them, or at least life energy. I can see hellbeasts even though they don't have real life, the fake life that makes them tick is barely visible to me. I ran into a lot of stuff as a kid. . .It was kinda pathetic. . .”He pauses sadly for a moment, his body stilling. But then with a sigh he goes on. “Anyways, you know how you can feel where Kuro and me and Dani are? Well, Issho always noticed, he's our eldest brother. . . .I hope he and Pops are getting along okay after that thing. . .Anyways, he noticed when I would cower away from others, I would look towards them.”

He smiles very proudly. “Smart one that Issho.” Dani snorts only to earn a fiery gaze from Homura. Dani quiets down, peeking out from behind a stack of hay. “As I was saying. . .” He says with a faint growl. Kuro pay a little closer attention, moving within a quick dash of the two. He's not worried Homura will hurt anyone, but if he lights the barn on fire on accident there could be issues. “Issho noticed this and figured I must be able to see something so when he took me in, I was really young, before I lost my heart, and he began testing me. I remember being really scared for a while, but eventually he brought me earth animals and stuff with low, bright energy which was easier to see.” He nods happily.

“Yup, little fluffy and feathery things, I would chase them around like a hell hound once I figured out they couldn't hurt me. I could. . .See them, and after a time, I came to recognize all the different energies, because that's all I could see. Energy, intensity, shape, and color. It became easy to identify things. I see them behind my vision. It's like, when no life energies are around, it's all black inside a big room, but as life energy comes in, I can see it from across the room.” he nods. “Also, I only know colors from what others have told me about them, so the only ones I'm sure about are white, black, and gray. . . .Like these” He runs his fingers across the feathers down to the base. Curiously he rubs the spot that, on demons, is pleasantly sensitive. Kuro almost tries to stop him but decides against it.

A Bloody Murder

When he hears his thoughts echoed by the prince Rei slowly turns his head around to look at Alessandro, his bows furrowed slightly in curiosity. 'He may not have meant the same thing as I was thinking, however his words have an eerie feel. After all, I have never found someone who thinks like me, even in simple matters' With a shrug he turns to follow the prince silently, as sure as the rest that he will head back to the carriage. However when he stops and mentions books he takes his gaze from the guards crowding around and cranes his neck around trying to spot it. Surrounded by so many men taller than himself it is impossible to see the shop the prince mentioned but with one final look at the two of them the guards more aside and Rei spots their goal.

Ignoring everything else he sticks to Alessandro's side until they are in the shop. He does stop long enough to assess those inside even as the books call out to him. The boy behind the counter carries no air of threat and while the old man seems to have a strong spirit he too presents no threat to the prince's safety. His magic snakes around the shop almost on it's own while his eyes begin darting around. He sees several volumes he already owns along with a handful he doesn't and a good deal more he can't identify at a distance due to wear on the binding.

At the sound of his name his head snaps around to look up at the taller human. If he'd been a dog it's clear his ears would be perked up and his eyes excited like it had spotted a squirrel and was just waiting for permission to chase it. As soon as permission is given Rei is off. The boy behind the register's eyes go wide. Not only at the sudden show of energy, but the added fact that the prince had called him his bodyguard. How could something so small and cute guard anyone?

Since he is so small many of the tomes are out of reach and rather than interrupting his search to find something to stand on he simply goes right up the bookcases like a gecko. The boots make the task a little more difficult than usual but the shelves themselves don't even shiver or creak as he mounts them. In less than five minutes he's been through every book on the first floor, a grand total of two books actually meriting consideration for purchase and quickly set on a small table before he shuffles up the stairs like a kitten. Glancing at the tome the old man had put away as they came in he makes not of it to check later before going all the way to the end of the rows and begins making his way back towards the stairs.

Again he takes to climbing rather than using a step stool. In fact at one point he moves it out of the way before clambering right up to the top shelf. Sitting atop the bookcase he reads the first few lines of text in a moldy old tome before they narrow and he snaps it shut. Carefully he climbs back down the book tucked under his arm, and with out even looking at the rest he makes his way back to the stairs. His hand snaps out to grab the magic touched tome as he passes and he tucks it under his free arm before shuffling down the stairs, far more slowly than he ascended. 'Well, who knew they had and fae works in human society. . .' He muses, glancing at the moldy brown tome.

Once back at his small stack he looks through the first two for a good three minutes before deciding to put one back, taking his final selection of three up to the prince. With wide eyes he sets them up on the counter, reaching up to make sure his hat is still in place, which it is. Almost instinctively he brings his gloved hand up to his mouth, intent on removing the offending something touching him but he stops just before it gets between his teeth and his hands drop to his sides. Looking up at the prince he cocks his head to the side cutely, his gaze still faintly more 'alive' than usual.

When Realms Collide {AkiBlue & PopeAlessandros}

Seishu takes Rue's compliment in stride and sighs softly. 'I did my best. . .' Glancing at the wound again he decides to wrap it at least. 'Ah, but what with? I can't use my own clothes, or anything from this realm, it's all soaked in negative energy. . .' Glancing at Rue he almost hesitates, for an instant worrying about how exposed the minion will feel, but without a catch in his throat he asks, “Little Bite, I need to bind Enasi's wound. May I use your shirt?” Rue looks very confused, but begins removing it without hesitation.

'He's never been so polite before. He almost sounded like Lord Enasi. He must be really, really upset. Well this just sucks! He was suppose to be coming here for good reasons, and he ends up having to leave early just because' He stops his own line of thought, knowing both guardian's are not mad at him, and think his discovery is actually quite special. Handing over the cloth he is even more confused that Seishu didn't even seem to notice his expression, however after a moment he dismisses it as simply being so focused on helping Enasi.

In fact, Seishu did notice, but he simply didn't know what to make of it, instead turning his attention on to making bandages with the small shirt. “Good thing you're so small Flufflord. . .” He murmurs, carefully tying on the strips with Rue's help.

About the time they finish Tyar slips into the cave behind the falls and materializes as the sharp fanged fish child. Rue yelps and tries to hide but at the smile on Seishu's lips he stops and settles, a faint pout on his lips. Tyar itself seems to ignore the reaction. “Master Seishu, I found a good place just outside. The exit is hidden by a boulder, and the area is silent. It doesn't seem like there are any search parties in the area, and no locals are hanging about.”

Seishu nods. “After my call I'm sure most are still to shaken to do much, even that. . .” He refrains from talking about Gin directly but everyone gets his meaning.

~*~*~*~*~

The minion who would be master has not been seen since the encounter. He'd vanished into his room that very night, an odd kind of smile on his face. The minions around the palace have done what they can to return to the natural order of things since Gin took over, but most are still so frightened and confused that they simply sit about, waiting for something to happen. They move when prompted, and do little tasks, but they seem almost catatonic without guidance. Seeing Seishu like that had been hard, and hearing his voice had chilled them to their cores.

~*~*~*~*~

Jentou rests peacefully, covered in little ones. It had taken the full might of several of the strongest nightmares and minions to restrain him without hurting him too badly after the call went out the night before. He had been, and still is in fact, convinced that something happened to Kaila and would hear no reason. Luckily with promises that he would return soon and the assignment of looking after the children, along with being sat on for a good hour so he could vent without fleeing, he calmed down and took up the task on to exhaustion. Tiski, Lan, and Ran all look into the distance from the high branch of a tall tree, trying to keep an eye out for their Guardian's return without letting dread overtake them.

Third Time's The Charm ~ PopeAlessandros x Jiskastya

Edit made! I hope it's okay.

Third Time's The Charm ~ PopeAlessandros x Jiskastya

Oki, I'll get on that soon!