painting the night with brush strokes of gray: (Closed thread)

[SandS13]

Morgan crossed her arms. "And who would your master be, lion? You have invited trouble but coming in and causing such chaos within my walls.

-------
Imogen was shaking. Daniel's blood was soaking into the arm of her dress as he grabbed her. She moved closer, grabbing his arm. "Daniel..." Her other hand reached out to move the hair from his forehead. He was gone. Her mind was having trouble coming to terms with his words, with Gabriel's words.

She let out a shuddering breath as Gabriel closed the werewolf's eyes. She looked up at Gabriel. It was clear she was in shock. Imogen gave a slight nod of her head in way of acknowledging his apology. Her eyes moved. She looked around the club.

The band was standing around them, a protective circle. Nicholas and Andrea were directing people our of the building, sometimes bodily.

Imogen was still holding onto Daniel's arm. "What happened?"

 

[The_gladiator]

The lion gave Morgan a look like she should know, “My dark prince will be waiting, send an emissary to him, or come yourself if you would like to do business together. If you have a vigilante problem you want resolved. Another term for sentinels especially humans thought of them as vigilantes since they were judge jury and executioners. They did not follow the same rule of law that human culture did. His hand was on the door handle, if Morgan tried to reach him, he would be gone. He knew it wouldn’t be long until Gabriel or one of the others he left behind would be coming for him. Graham’s smile was wicked. “You could come out of this on top. Just give us the girl and we will eliminate your problems.



Gabriel sighed as he stood. He looked around trying to gather all the facts before he answered Imogen’s question. “We were invaded by a lion pride. They started trouble with Daniel and his human companion.” Here he gestured to the man, who lay dead not far from Daniel’s body. “I can only guess they tried to get backstage.” He was guessing here but was confident of his assumptions.

“I became aware of trouble when Daniel cut off the sound to the stage, and whistled for help. I came to help him with the band.” Here Gabriel paused and Byron picked up the story.

“Daniel offered to protect Gabriel’s back while me and the guys here tried to stop the others.”

Gabriel picked back up again, “I was at a standstill with the Lion’s Rex. It had to be he, he was too powerful.

Byron picked up the narrative once more, “Two got past us.” He looked deflated at that.

Nicholas picked back up the explanation, “None of us saw exactly what happened between them, but judging by his wounds,” he stopped her from looking by stepping between the body and her, “They did not follow blood’s strict no shifting policy. The really strong shifters can shift a part of their body only. He was eviscerated by their claws.”

“We came back when Gabriel was trying to heal Daniel. Damn fool had sought outside his body in the middle of a fight.” Byron sounded a bit in awe.

“Fat lot of good it did.”

“Didn’t you say you were fighting the Rex when Daniel fell?” Jared rumbled. “Where did he go?” Gabriel went on alert. “Deeper inside, he ran while I was killing the enforcers that took down Daniel.”

One of the lions got through, are you safe? He sent to Morgan. Aloud he spoke, “I have alerted Morgan. She is powerful enough to defend herself from that one. We need to help Nicholas Mop up. He will need to wipe humans.”

“I also think we captured some of the lions,” Axle said pointing to a pile of bodies someone had stacked up against the stage, probably where he or one of the others had thrown their unconscious forms.

Nicholas didn’t know who Andrea was, but somehow, they had ended up working as a team to chuck out unruly guests. The lions had been dealt with, but some others thought it was a good time to start a brawl.

 

[SandS13]

"I always come out on top. Where would he like to meet?" Morgan's voice was cold.

I am fine. He has fled through a back door. She sent the thought back

-------
Imogen remained on the floor, kneeling by Daniel. She took in everything they told her. "Why did they invade? Why were they here?" There was an undercurrent of desperation to her voice.

Andrea turned to look at Nicholas. "Good work." She headed back in to the middle of the floor.

"Wipe?" Imogen looked at Gabriel. "What do you mean wipe? Their memories?"

 

[The_gladiator]

“Two hours. The abandoned church on the outskirts of town, attached to the cemetery.” And with that the Lion was gone through the door. His exit actually made Morgan’s message to Gabriel less of a lie.

“Morgan says the Lion has fled through a back door.” He frowned, “What did he accomplish before he left, though?” he asked rhetorically.

Turning his attention to Imogen’s question he nodded. “Yes, this is not something we want human involvement in.” Gabriel knew what he was saying was wrong. It was something their kind had sworn they would stop doing with the dawning. Yet, Gabriel knew Nicholas would do so, he was too old, and Morgan would expect it to preserve her profit margins. If there were an incident people might not attend the concert that Gabriel knew fans would still want to go on.

Byron looked as if he were going to protest, but closed his mouth after a moment.

In fact, it was something that Nicholas had already started doing as he ushered people out of the building. Suddenly the bar tender who had given Gabriel trouble that first night was before him, “You can’t shut us down for the night. Do you know how much money we’ll lose? You get your ass back on stage and play for these people.”

Nicholas frowned. There were too many cooks in this kitchen. He wove his way back towards Gabriel and Imogen. Big and ugly following him snarling about how the band needed to get back up there and entertain his guests. Nicholas wanted to shout at the man that the bar was closed and to shut up and deal with it, but he honestly did not have that authority. They had to do something though. Where was that woman who had been helping him throw people out now? Who had the authority to make decisions around here anyway?

 

[SandS13]

Imogen hadn't moved. She was still holding Daniel's arm. Her dress was sticking to her body in the places where it had soaked up his blood.

Andrea had sidled up to Byron's side, checking him over for injuries in a less than subtle manner.

Morgan went back to her office. She needed to do a few things to prepare for this meeting. Protection around the club and herself needed to be increased. She needed to take at least one guard with her but she didn't think she could trust any of them. She made a call to one of the pack members she knew was off for the night. He would go with her and he would keep his mouth shut.

Composing herself Morgan vanished and appeared in the club.

"What is going on?" She looked around. The smell of blood was heavy in the air.

"I see..."

With that Morgan took control. Nicholas was sent to take care of the humans. She told him to wipe their memory of the incident, replace it with a plumbing problem. She sent some of the pack out to line people up, the show would go on as soon as things were cleaned up.

She had others take Daniel's body to be prepared for last rites of the pack. It took two of the wolves to pull Daniel's arm from Imogen's hand.

The floor was immediately set upon with mops and hot water. The smell of cleaner now filled the air.

"Gabriel, you and the band get ready to play as soon as everything is cleaned up. The lions...I want them taken downstairs. Locked up, we will question them later. Brothers- " She turned to the Angeles brothers. "Take Imogen down to Gabriel's room and see that she cleans up. I fear she is in a bit of shock."

Morgan had to play her cards right. She wanted to take Imogen but knew it would get Gabriel's back up if she did. The brothers were no threat though and she might get access later. If she could take her to the meeting...

She pushed that thought aside. "I want this place cleaned and ready in thirty minutes."

 

[The_gladiator]

Surprisingly everyone seemed extremely grateful for Morgan’s direction. Organizing per her directions. Even Gabriel appreciated the leadership. He knew well that organizing masses of people wasn’t his gift and was glad in that moment after the violent altercation to just be part of the band for a few moments. He didn’t like the thought of Imogen leaving him, but he trusted her to be safe enough with the brothers, for now.

Nicholas who normally would have balked at taking orders from Morgan complied readily. Morgan had made a strategic move in ordering Nicholas to do what he was doing anyway. It gave her the illusion of control and It was something that Nicholas agreed needed done. It was evident in that half hour, why Morgan was master of her city, why people followed and listened to her.

Fernando and Esteban took hold of Imogen’s arms gently guiding her towards the back of the club. “It was her that they were after. We all fucking know it. Antonio was snarling. A fucking brawl because of her. What makes her so bloody special.”

Esteban turned to his older brother clearly fed up with his shit. “Take Juan-Pablo, and check on Diego, feed him. Fernando and I will guard the Lady Imogen.”

“Who made you leader here,” Antonio snarled getting in his brother’s face.

“There a problem here?” Byron asked sauntering over. He casually insinuated himself between the two combative brothers. “Imogen, Melany asked me if she could help you with your hair and makeup. She feels in the way up here.” This was strictly not true, but he knew the woman would gladly take care of Imogen. She needed a softer touch than the hard brothers. Just don’t believe any of her stories about me, I’m a complete angel.” He kissed Imogen’s cheek and swept her off towards Melany, who at a psychic touch from Byron looked up and smiled seeing Imogen.

“You’ve been through a lot, sugar, come with me.” Melany slid an arm around Imogen’s shoulders protectively shielding her from all the irritable males.

Antonio glared at Esteban, but the moment had passed and he and Juan-Pablo left to check on Diego. Esteban and Fernando fell in behind Imogen and Melany like good body guards, both shooting Byron appreciative looks, who simply winked and smiled behind Imogen’s back and sauntered off back towards the band, letting his fingertips trail over Andrea’s arm as he passed. “You were brave earlier,” he told her with a flirtatious smile.

 

[SandS13]

Imogen let them lead her down to the room. She placed her hand on the pad and it unlocked for them. Melany led her in but Imogen stopped and looked at the brothers. "Please don't stay out there. Please."

It was clear that she was distressed and the brothers stepped into the room, closing the door behind them.

Melany put her arm back around Imogen's shoulder and led her to the bedroom and the bathroom. She helped her undress and then wash up. "Where are your clothes hun? They aren't in the closet."

"Bags. Under the table."

"Alright."

Melany helped Imogen get dressed. The royal blue dress was slipped over her body. She brushed the vampire's hair.

Imogen walked into the sitting room to the brothers. "Tell me what you know about Catarina's children with Dimitri."
----
Morgan waited until the place was clean and the band was about to play. Only then did she go back to her office. She wondered if she could smuggle Imogen out but thought better of it at the moment. The brothers were with her.

The club was filling with people, the show starting and Morgan took the opportunity of them being distracted to slip out.

 

[The_gladiator]

Entering the room at her request, Esteban and Fernando sat awkwardly on the couch, trying to not look stiff and uncomfortable. Melany was doing the hard parts for them. “Celina will be here tomorrow evening,” Esteban told his brother, earning a faint smile from his younger brother. It was becoming obvious as time went on that Antonio was the public leader of the family, but Esteban might actually be the true power in the family, quietly steering things behind the scenes, while his brother publicly railed and generally peacocked around.

Esteban frowned at her question, “It was my understanding that she bore Dimitri 3 children,” He said, his tone cold. This was a subject the brothers were generally pretty closed mouthed about.

“I don’t think that any of them made it to adulthood other than Gabriella the daughter, who died in the early 1800’s,” Fernando said.

“Yes, the boys were killed in a raid lead by our two uncles. Uncles that died that night.” Esteban said.

Gabriel and the band were now ready, and just before the concert was scheduled to start again, Nicholas rejoined them and faded into the shadows, where he normally stood. Eventually Nicholas knew Byron would draw the crowd’s attention to him and he would have to come forth to sing a song himself, but he would stay in the shadows and watch for more trouble until then, that was his way.

Gabriel smiled as he Saw Imogen come into the bar in a lovely dress. He wished he could dance with her, could hold her to him. He reached out to her; his mind gentle, soothing. He hoped that she could enjoy their concert.

As Morgan stepped out into the black night a shape fell in at her side. Zeke made her look tiny, 6 and a half feet of pure muscle. He was one of the pack that did not live in her complex. He maintained his public life as a weatherman and retired athlete. He gave her a nod. “I brought my car like you asked.” He said as he led her through the parking lot to the average looking black SUV. He opened her door for her. He paused for a moment, “Forgive me mistress, but do you need a hand up?” he asked, as the vehicle was higher up than the average vehicle.

 

[SandS13]

"No, I will be fine." Morgan climbed in and she told him where she wished to go. "This could be dangerous. You will be alert but will not interfere unless needed."
-----
Imogen listened to the brothers but it was of no help. Melany led her back to the club, the brothers at their back.

She was still in shock and stood watching the concert but was not fully enjoying the experience. The one thing that helped was Gabriel in her mind, soothing her and trying to calm her.

The concert was in full swing, the crowd was hyped up. Imogen found it upsetting that everyone was acting as if nothing had happened. Her eyes fell to where Daniel had been laying, bleeding.

I want to feel you holding me. Her mind reached out to Gabriel.

 

[The_gladiator]

Zeke nodded and moved around to get into the driver’s side. “Can I ask what we’re going to do?” he asked, figuring she would not tell him, but making small talk of sorts as he drove. He followed her instructions, winding his way out of the town, finally arriving at the old abandoned church, that sat at the edge of the cemetery grounds. It had a haunted or spooky feel, especially at night with little moon to speak of.

I wish I could hold you little one. It’s been a long few day for us. Gabriel’s thoughts were full of warmth but also of fantasies of her touch, of being inside her, of losing themselves in the pleasure of their union. Also, they contained pictures of the comfort of holding one another.

Gabriel played multiple instruments throughout the night. Finally, it came, the break he had been anticipating, and he slipped off the stage and over to Imogen as Byron announced Nicholas, and invited him to take center stage to perform a song by the Travelers. It didn’t take Byron long to file off stage too, though he went back stage, presumably to get a drink. Gabriel was less subtle heading to, and scooping Imogen into his arms, kissing there right in front of the club full of people.

Nicholas stepped forward, playing the crowd as he always did, moving forward to sit on the edge of the stage as was his way. He asked the crowd what they wished to hear, and listened to names being called back to him, but he knew as always what song he would be playing. He caressed the strings of his guitar and searched the crowd for someone to hold his mic. It was a tradition many of the women were familiar with and seemed to be getting his attention. He wanted to pick someone out, did not just want to take the closest woman, didn’t want to Serenade just anyone, but was there someone that caught his eye here tonight?

 

[SandS13]

"No, you may not ask. Just drive and know that you are here to protect me if things go bad."

When they arrived Morgan got out and approached. She could feel him there. His power radiated out even though he didn't mean to. He was old, not as old as her but he was still old.

"Good evening Dimitri."
------
Andrea stepped close to Byron. her lips on his ear. "Does me being brave make me more attractive or less to you?" She reached around him, sliding a beer into his hand.
----
Imogen melted into his arms. She kissed him back and then wrapped her arms about his neck and lifted herself to wrap her legs around him. She needed to feel him holding her close.

 

[The_gladiator]

Gabriel respectfully made sure to smooth down her dress so she didn’t flash anyone even as his hands cupped her ass supporting her weight, holding her close. His voice caressed her mind intimately You feel good little one, very good. He broke the kiss finally only to bury his face in her neck, feeling her hair brush against his face causing him to growl low with need and pleasure right near her ear. A sound that she probably felt more than saw.

------

Byron couldn’t help the shiver at her lips on his ear. “I like brave women,” he said. He accepted the beer and took a sip. He could handle at least a sip or two. He was now curious, did this woman not know who he was, what he was, rather? He had thought she was vampire, but suddenly realized that he couldn’t sense her power. She was shielded. He knew he should ask her about it, but feeling her press close to him like that was driving him to distraction.

------

“You come early,” The voice came from the darkness. There was the rasp of a match being struck, and then a single tapered candle was lit on a table in the courtyard. The light highlighted the face of Dimitri, concealed behind the cowl of a long cape. Pale hands lifted and lowered the hood. Dimitri though still handsome had a gauntness about him, that spoke of great struggle throughout the years of his existence, as well as perhaps being somewhat warped by his terrible emotions, as he had shown Imogen earlier. All of this served to leave him handsome but more cruelly so than traditionally so. His eyes were black pits, refusing to reflect the light from the taper. They were the black eyes common to both he and his brother. The eyes and black hair contrasting with the skin of his face. “You will join me.” The words were more request than order, but were definitely not a question. “I wish obstacles removed from my path; I believe you can help me do so.” He flashed a brief smile, devoid of true humor. “I suspect I can assist you with your goals along the way as well. His eyes met hers, waiting for her answer, how would she play this, confident, humble, haughty, he reveled to find out.

 

[SandS13]

Imogen moaned as she felt the vibration in his chest against her. Take me downstairs. Lock us away. Please. She needed to feel him more than anything. She needed to feel him. Her teeth, fangs elongated. rasped against his skin, calling for him to bond with her and touch her in way no other could.
---
Andrea laughed lightly against him. Her nails raked down his back so he could feel it through his shirt. "Come drink something more enjoyable." She pulled away hoping he would follow. She opened the door of the green room, a place for the bands to sit and socialize before a set. Andrea sat on the couch and waited to see if he would follow.
-------
Her eyes met Nicholas'. She was doe-eyed with a soft, round face of innocence but her air was confident. The men around her kept trying to get close but she didn't pay them any attention. She smiled slightly as the mic was put in her hand.
------
"Out of respect." Morgan stated. She didn't need to respect him, in fact it should be the other way around but she was not going to demand such.

"You hunt and move on my territory. Without gaining my permission. Your pride infiltrated my club...there were casualties of my people. I can help you but I do not enjoy the way you have approached this. What do you know of my goals?" Morgan met his gaze.

 

[The_gladiator]

Gabriel gasped in her ear at the feel of her teeth scraping his skin. It was clear that she craved the escape of their connection. It was not meant to be the end of the concert, but it easily could be. Ending with Nicholas’s little show was a more than decent way to make the show end. With a thought, he told the others he would not be returning to the stage.

Gabriel Carried her just like that threw the door she had led him through to get to Morgan’s office before, the one that lead them into the inner workings of the complex. Once the door closed, he paused to press her against a wall. His hand slid up from her ass to her hair. He used it to tug her mouth up, kissing her with a forceful passion, full of his need.

-----

It was just the appeal that Byron needed as he followed her, setting the beer on a free table. “Tell me more about you,” He requested as he closed the door, moving to sit beside her, his smiles continuing to be flirtatious, though his eyes caressed her throat, obviously dreaming of that offer she had just made, clearly a blatant request for her to drink from her.

-----

There was something about her that drew him in. He had caught sight of her in the crowd. She possessed a mix of experience and innocence that intrigued Nicholas. He wondered which was the act, if either were. Some of the crowd, used to this part, watched his eyes, saw who he selected, and created a space for her to come forward.

She seemed willing enough as she stepped closer, pressing against his knees as the crowd packed in closer behind her. He handed her the mic, hand brushing hers briefly even as his blue eyes met hers. He then waited to see her next move. It was always a study in character to see where they held the microphone. Some shoved it into his face, so he had to almost lean back. Others buried it in their cleavage so he practically had to mash his face in their breasts to sing. He spread his legs slightly, hoping to make it a bit more comfortable for her to step closer if she needed to, she did not appear too tall.

Free of holding the mic, he strummed the guitar, fingers dancing over the strings, preparing to sing to her.

----

Dimitri’s laugh was still low and sensual, a part of their heritage, perhaps. It did not sound evil or warped. “Such petty things you whine of. A few small deaths, to better assist me. Surely no great losses to you?” his tone was slightly mocking. “Those deaths served many purposes for me. I learned of her… my star light.” Here he paused, seeming to savor the thought of Imogen. “I also learned things of control during that time.” His smirk was sly. “My pride, is it? I believe they are actually your pride, or were. They do answer to me now. I have a gift with Lions, as you may remember. I understand, your influence lies with wolves,” his eyes flicked to Zeke some distance behind Morgan. “Your puppy dog wouldn’t be able to hurt me, if I meant you harm.” He said casually, simple statement of fact.

Zeke bristled at Dimitri’s words, but kept himself in check and quiet.

Dimitri spoke again after a pause to watch Zeke simmer. “I should have come to you?” he asked, “Would you have given it? Would you have given her to me? As for your goals, why, that is simple. You are like any other master vampire, you wish power, influence, respect and I can tell you resent all of these people in your city, with more to arrive I’ve heard.” Here he smirked again, “That is if they survive the trouble, I planned for them.”

 

[SandS13]

Imogen moaned as Gabriel pushed her against the wall. He kissed her in a way that took her breath away and made her almost climax right there.

She needed him to take her, hard and roughly. Her mind was locked tight and her emotions were bouncing like a hive of angry bees. She had done too good of a job of locking it away that she couldn't open it, even a little to allow herself to feel anything. She needed Gabriel to force her mind open. She needed him to give her a release. Her nails dug into his shoulders. Her leg lifted and urged him closer.
-----------
"Not much to tell. I work...I survive...I enjoy good music." Andrea smiled and crooked a finger to beckon him closer. She needed him enamoured, captivated with her. She needed to get him softened up and interested in what she had to say.

"I offered you something better to drink and I keep my word." She licked her lips. She tilted her head, an open invitation to her neck. "Unless you would rather not be close to me." Her lips lifted into a seductive smile.
---------
Lillian held the microphone so it would be in the perfect place for him to sing while he played. She believed in a job done right. She didn't want him to lean or strain. It might effect his singing or playing and that wasn't fair to the crowd.

She didn't know this was her target. Andrea hadn't told her anything over the phone and she hadn't located the vampire yet. Usually Andrea found her. Lillian, being human didn't have Andrea's senses. She worked for the vampire because she owed Andrea a debt. Andrea kept her debt in place because Lillian was good. A constant profession and confident in her skills. She used communication, not her body to get what Andrea wanted.

She stared up at Nicholas, soft brown eyes watching him as he sang. Her mouth, a rosebud shape in the most classic sense was turned up at the edges. He was good, smooth fingers on strings and warm voice that drew you in. She could see why so many women had been trying to get his attention. She didn't know why he picked her but she was glad for this little distraction before she found Andrea and got to work.
--------
Morgan inhaled and ran her tongue over her teeth. "You try my patience and insult me. Yes, they were my pride but I see, much like your hunting in my city that you have no respect for such things."

She crossed her arms. "He is here to be an escort. I like nice looking things on my arm."

"As for Imogen...I had plans. I did not know it was you doing the killing. I knew you wanted her and I was trying to draw you out. I do not wish to play games. What is it you want, what deal do you wish to strike with me?"

 

[The_gladiator]

Gabriel growled against her lips, a low moan of need as she seduced him with her need, her total submission to his desires. He shoved open the door to the nearest office. It was thankfully empty, and also thankfully not Morgan’s. Not that he wouldn’t have fucked Imogen in Morgan’s office, but there was less chance some flunky would have an issue with it, or at least have the influence to do anything about it. Gabriel lead Imogen to the desk and looking at the collection of papers atop it, purchase orders for liquor for the bar, and the like, he swept them all to the side, clearing the desk top with a casual shove. Papers flew everywhere, yet it gave Gabriel the space he wanted. He lifted Imogen onto the desk and bent over her kissing her deeply, one hand on her throat, steadying her, claiming her, possessing her with his fiery need.

I cannot wait until we get to our room, this will have to do. He spoke not aloud, but let his mind brush hers intimately even as his body pressed between her spread thighs as he kissed her.

------

She had opted for respectful and efficient. Nicholas could appreciate that. His eyes met hers as he sang. He had picked her, not just because of her appearance, but because she had seemed appreciative of the music, yet wasn’t clamoring for him like most of the other starved fans. She very well may have known who he was, but if so, she was not a starstruck wannabe lover either. With all that had occurred that night he strongly wanted someone like her, someone refreshingly normal, respectful and seemed to resonate with the politeness that Nicholas valued so much.

He let his voice float over the crowd, reaching everyone, yet the crowd felt the fact that he was singing to her. It was an interesting feeling for the crowd, one that had intrigued crowds for decades. Which is partially why Byron had called him out like that. Tonight, it was a good way to end the set, it teased about what would come the next night with the rest of the travelers there.

Nicholas’s eyes fluttered closed breaking their contact with the woman before him as he played the guitar solo. Showing a second of genuineness, as he allowed himself to get lost in the music. He had played this song more times than he could count, typically to a different woman every night, and yet it always moved him.

As he began to sing again his eyes once again met hers. As the song wound down Nicholas flicked his pick out into the crowd to another woman who was reaching for it. This left his right hand free. He brushed a strand of hair from her face and leaned closer. Sometimes he did this, sometimes he didn’t. It felt right. I’m going to kiss you. His voice slid into her mind, a sensual purr, letting her know in advance what would happen next. He would never force her, if she resisted or gave a sign, she was not interested he would have let her go. His hand slid slowly to the back of her neck as he leaned down to her lips a breath from hers.

The crowd went nuts, loving the show, other women jealous yet happy for Lillian. They applauded even as Nicholas hovered there waiting for her approval before completing the move and genuinely kissing her.

------

Byron approached her like a predator. He didn’t do it as well as Nicholas or Gabriel, but he was still a hunter. He might paint his fingernails and spend more money on hair product than the average woman, but he was still a hunter. He licked his lips as he approached. “A generous offer sugar. Of course, I want to be close to you.” He sat beside her, one hand sliding up the outside of her thigh as he leaned in closer.

-----

“Respect is earned not granted,” Dimitri said flatly, “When did you become such a whiner.” He said scornfully. “You sound like a sentinel or a member of that despicable council. Is that it, are you a member of the vampire leadership now? Have you so quickly forgotten the days when the strong took what they wanted?”

“As to your question of a deal, why my terms are simple, the woman is mine, all the sentinels die and you come out on top. There is no reason that Vladimir would ever suspect you of wrongdoing the moment you leak to him that it was me involved in this situation. I am willing to take the fall for you, after all, my brother already thinks me a monster, what is one more black mark to add to the collection I already bare?” he inquired. “However, if you don’t meet my terms if you think to just use that information to your advantage alone, proof of your duplicity will conveniently find its way to my brother, trust me, that is not something you want.” Dimitri knew he had the upper hand here, but if Morgan played along, she would come out on top and smelling like roses, everyone would win. Well, at least he and she would win.

 

[SandS13]

Imogen kept kissing him as he moved her through a door and into a room. She smirked, watching the papers flutter to the ground. She licked her lips as he put her on the desk.

Don’t wait. Don’t think. Just fuck me.

She shifted her legs, opening them for him.

Rip it away. She was talking of the thong that would stop him from entering her. Imogen let her teeth rake over his lower lip.
-----------
Lillian found herself captivated as he closed his eyes and played the solo. He was lost in the music. It came from him, from his emotions.

She didn’t take her eyes off of him as he tossed the pick into the crowd. She was surprised when his hand reached out to brush her hair away. Lillian’s lips parted as his voice was in her mind. She didn’t move, didn’t pull away. She unconsciously moved in as his hand slid to her neck and drew her in.

His lips touched hers and Lillian was shocked at how natural it felt. It was soft, gentle. When he let her go it took a moment for Lillian to open her eyes. She didn’t realize she had closed them or that she had held her breath.

She smiled at him and began to back away into the crowd. It was a nice show. He definitely had a way about him that she liked. Lillian went to the bar and ordered a drink.

The crowd was cheering.
------------------

Andrea shifted a little, letting him get closer. “You can get as close as you like.” Her hands reached out to draw him in. “No need to be gentle.”

She had him captivated, focused on her and that was what she wanted. In a snap decision, Andrea moved, pushing Byron back on the couch and she straddled his lap. She immediately tilted her head, baring her neck to him. “I like to be on top…” She purred at him.
----------
Morgan snarled. “I should have earned your respect long ago and you should watch your tone. I am not part of the council and I do not forget anything Dimitri.”

She growled. “I cannot let you kill all the sentinels. Yes, they are pains but I will be set upon by the others, by the council. I want them gone but there is no need for the bloodshed. Why not take the woman and flee? She needs to be trained. Her power is substantial, more so than any others of our race. I will set things up so you can easily get her but you take her and you leave.”

 

[The_gladiator]

Gabriel followed the direction in her mind. He slid his hand under her dress and jerked the panties, the strings snapping easily under his strength. His lips nipped at her neck as his fingers danced over her pussy, testing her wetness. Liking what he found he reached for his pants. Then he gave in and with a thought, his pants vanished. He was already hard and waiting for her.

He urged her legs around him as he pushed up inside her, groaning his pleasure as his lips met hers again.

-----

Nicholas enjoyed the kiss, enjoyed how her eyes slid closed with pleasure. It made it worth it for him, glad he had made the decision to kiss this one. He wanted to ask her to spend more time with him, but the moment had passed.

Stepping back onto the stage he bowed and thanked the crowd before he headed backstage.

-----

Byron liked her decisive move, it was sexy. He let his lips and tongue trail over her neck. Even this close her power seemed shrouded in mystery. However, the mystery unraveled, at least somewhat when his teeth sunk into the side of her neck, hand on her back, holding her close. She was definitely vampire, and born vampire who was older than he expected based on the flavor of her blood. No where as old as he or any of the band for that matter, but it was still a heady flavor. “mmmmm,” he moaned against her skin. He pulled back from his feeding his eyes gone palest blue with his power, glowing with his power. “You are intriguing,” he breathed, drunk on her power.

-----

Dimitri listened to her rebuttals with a somewhat bored expression. Not appreciating her posturing. “You have gone soft. Fine, they all need not die, the welp must die though. The one who dared to mark my starlight. I will not accept anything less,” Dimitri snarled, unwilling to bend on this fact.

 

[SandS13]

Imogen cried out as he entered her. His mouth stifled it. The whole desk moved as he thrusted into her.

“Gabriel…” Her nails raked down his back. She needed this. She wanted him in a way that bordered on desperation.
-----------
Lillian took her drink and wandered towards the stage. The band had gone backstage. There was still no sign of Andrea. She leaned her back against the stage. She wondered where the singer had gone but quickly shook that thought away. She was here for a job and that was all.
----------
“I am glad you think so…” Andrea’s voice was husky. Her hips rolled against his. Andrea ran a hand up the back of Byron’s neck. “You know a fight is coming don’t you?” Her voice was husky.
---------
Morgan resisted the urge to bare her fangs at him. “I have not grown soft. I am just less reckless than you are. You can have Gabriel. I am angry with him for converting her. I had bigger plans for her. Losing one young sentinel in a fight between males over a woman is no loss in my mind. Tell me what you have planned and I will ensure she is there for you to take and he is alone for you to kill.”

 

[The_gladiator]

The desk rocked under his powerful thrusts. She met him with her own passion. He could feel her nails on his back, even through his shirt. His kisses stole her cries of pleasure as he took her hard. Not necessarily fast, but hard, forceful, demanding.

-----

Nicholas finally drifted back out onto the floor, as the DJ started playing music again. He spotted the woman he had sung to and started her way. A group of fans had surrounded her, “You know he sleeps with the ones he kisses,” one said to Lillian.

“Yes, I’m surprised you aren’t backstage already,” a second said to her.

“You know ladies, I wouldn’t believe everything you hear,” Nicholas said with a slight chuckle as they approached. Causing the women to blush and stammer. Nicholas’s attention was on Lillian though. “A dance my lady?” he asked her formally. He wanted an excuse to be close to her, feeling drawn to her.

------

Byron ran his hands up under her shirt. “Oh, is there Sugar? Are you going to start a fight with me?” he asked his tone flirtatious. His eyes danced with his playful nature.

-------

“You will know when the time is right. If you find a way to isolate them you will get word to me, if I figure a way to force her to come to me, you will be sure she has the space to do so.” Dimitri was firm. It was clear that he did not have an exact plan yet, but he was making sure that Morgan would be prepared for what ever came. “I see our partnership as being quite…fruitful for us both,” Dimitri lay his hand over Morgan’s leaning forward a bit, the candle casting shadows on his face. “Don’t you?”

 

[SandS13]

Imogen was so close to her climax. Gabriel's hard rhythm was bringing her close to the edge and she knew when it broke her emotions would pour out. "Harder..." She whispered against his lips. Her nails dug into him.
-----
Lillian was smiling as the women talked to her. She shook her head. Groupie, backstage wasn't her style.

When his voice reached her ears Lillian looked up at him. The other ladies moved away. "A dance? My lady?" She downed her drink and stepped away from the stage. "A dance it is. I don't do backstage, just to be clear." She smiled at him and moved into the crowd on the dance floor.
------
"No, not with you." Her hips kept moving against him. "A fight is coming for that woman. Morgan told me. Will you be here for it?" Andrea licked his neck and then kissed him.
-----
"Yes, it could be but know I am risking a great deal and I had desired Imogen's power for myself. I give her up but only because it will be beneficial in the long run." Morgan waited a moment before pulling her hand away. "I did not give you leave to touch me."

 

[The_gladiator]

Dimitri snorted, “I don’t recall asking for your permission, either.” He retorted, “But, have it your way. It was so good to do business with you,” and with that he blew out the candle, letting the darkness envelope them again.

“Is he gone?” Zeke finally asked his voice almost cracking with the disuse and with the intensity of trying to Pearce the blackness. He stepped closer, placing a hand on Morgan’s chair, but made no effort to touch her, after what she had said to Dimitri.

----

Byron pressed his hips up against her. “I have no plans to leave. What else has Morgan told you?” he asked between kisses.

-----

“Good,” Nicholas said, “I’m fairly sure that our singer already has someone backstage. I find that I prefer to pretend I am more civilized.” He said as he pulled her close adopting a formal dance position that did not really fit this century, or the music they were listening to. Nicholas didn’t care, and that was obvious. She had made it clear that she didn’t do backstage, but she hadn’t resisted his kiss either. He liked that she was open, yet clearly knew her limits. That intrigued him, made him want to learn more.

-----

Gabriel could do nothing but obey her wishes, hands gripping her hips as he thrust into her. “Take down your straps,” he growled, finally speaking aloud, breaking the silent intensity they were sharing. His eyes hungrily watched her. It was clear he wanted access to her breasts, and she could not lower them fast enough for him. He fucked her harder, now faster. He fully expected her to obey his order. His thrusts promised her a reward of an orgasm if she listened to his fervent request.

 

[SandS13]

"Yes. Take me home." Morgan stood and walked with him to the waiting vehicle.
----------------
"That there will be a fight, that someone is coming for the woman. All I know..." Andrea kept kissing him. She reached down, rubbing against him with her hand.

"You are here to perform. Are you going to fight as well?" She was always able to fake concern.
--------------
"Pretend? So you do typically take a woman backstage?" Lillian smiled up at Nicholas, her tone light and teasing. Her large eyes widened as he took her in a position that was more suited for a ballroom than here. It amused her and in truth made her curious about him. She knew what he was but that was all she knew.

"I am Lillian. Lillian Degarde. Nice to meet you." She smirked. "Since you kissed me I thought you should know my name."
-----
Imogen's hands moved, ripping the dress as she pulled it down to bare her breasts to him. He moved harder, faster and it was making her moan loudly.

 

[The_gladiator]

Dimitri watched them go. He had thought it had gone better than he expected. He could continue to make plans. He would be ready. He expected she would try to double cross him at some point, he would be ready.

-----

Byron groaned as she started rubbing him through his jeans. “I will do what ever is necessary,” he got out between kisses. A bit surprised how much talking she wanted to do at a time like this. He rubbed his cheek against her breasts smiling up at her.

-------

Nicholas actually laughed, “I won’t pretend I have never taken a woman backstage.” He said honestly, “I do prefer a woman who has a bit more self-respect than that, though.”

When she gave him her name he smiled? “A lovely name, Lillian,” he said, testing her name. He had to lean close in order for her to hear him over the noise. “As beautiful a name as the woman who bares it,” he said, “I am Nicholas. Some call me the Traveler, I would prefer if you called me Nicholas,” he offered his voice still a low rumble near her ear as he bent over as they talked, swaying to the music. Her hand felt good in his, small, delicate, though with a strength to her. She had integrity, this one.

------

Gabriel watched her tug down her dress, ripping it in her haste. He found her excitement fueling his own. He growled with pleasure as she exposed herself to his hungry gaze. He pressed her back, changing the angle of his thrusts as he took a nipple into his mouth, biting down hard on it. Wanting to drive her over the edge.

 

[SandS13]

"Necessary. To protect the woman?" Andrea moaned as he rubbed against her breasts. "Or Morgan?"
------
"You are good at flattery. Does that often lead to women letting you take them backstage? Maybe letting you nibble their neck?" Lillian raised an eyebrow. She wanted him to know she knew what he was.

There was genuine surprise in her face. "I have heard of you. I thought you more legend than anything. I didn't realize you were in the area." She let him lead her around the dance floor in an intricate dance that she didn't know but that he led well.
-----
He bit down on her nipple and Imogen screamed as she climaxed. Her barriers came down the room pulsated with her energy. Anything on the wall fell. cracks formed in the plaster. The desk creaked.

"Gabriel...don't stop..."