Lou was in a bad mood, a very bad mood indeed. Her feeding had been interrupted, and so the aching in her throat had yet to be sated. She’d been too busy breaking bones, cutting skin and enjoying the muffled screaming of her victim, to actually drink him. She’d been at his house with him, having tied him to the bed; legs and arms spread wide. She had a thing for that position; it just made so much skin available to her. Plus, it was a fairly degrading position to be in, so every toy hated it… especially when naked. This only made her love it more. He’d been a tall, handsome blonde who’d thought she was just another woman to share his bed for a couple of hours. And in truth, she had… just not the way he’d intended.

Lou had picked what’s-his-name up at just about 10 pm, in some bar just a few miles from the mansion. Then she’d spent countless hours torturing him… so she’d had time to discover that peeling the skin off of her victim was quite the thrill. So simple… she’d cut patterns on his skin, making the cutest little patches for her to peel off. Like separating tape from paper, but with quite another sound. His screams had been so joyfully filled with agony, Lou had had trouble confining her excitement. So she’d continued… unfortunately he’d probably die in a bit. But she supposed that was merely the price he’d have to pay for her pleasure. She was going to have to try that again, she decided. In all of her 1506 years, Lou had tried out countless forms of torment, mostly because she got bored with one after a while, and had to re-evaluate her methods. She did wonder why she’d never thought of such a wonderful idea before, though.

So she’d been in a good mood, truth be told… until his wife had come home. Yes… a wife; a pregnant wife who apparently couldn’t have waited to come home until simple ten minutes later. Was that really too much to ask for? Lou didn’t think so. She’d considering making a meal of both husband and wife, but she didn’t have time for another round of playing, and she hated unprepared food. Took the joy out of the feeding, really. Plus… she’d smelled like O-. She no longer had to taste her victims to know their bloodtypes. After about 1000 years, her senses had become developed enough for her to smell them. Saved her a lot of trouble. Lou hated O- with a passion, frankly is tasted like shit. It was Anton’s thing, always had been, and throughout the little millennium she’d known him, she’d always gladly given those to him. Without fail. This time, however, she’d merely left, gracefully avoiding the woman who’d walked straight to the kitchen.

Now, as Lou sat in her car, she was starting to ponder the possibility that she’d have to stop by Anton’s little lair. Not that she didn’t love the brothel dearly, but the sun was starting to rise, and she really hated how sensitive her skin became. It’d gotten worse with age, in fact. She supposed it was a consequence of the strength and speed growing along with it. Of course nothing could just be simple when you were a vampire. She turned to the right, heading towards the brothel, deciding she desperately needed the blood. She rolled her eyes, strangely annoyed. Very few things could get on Lou’s nerves, but not feeding tended to leave her a bit testy. She pulled up by the brothel and turned the key to cut off the ignition, hoping that at least James or Anton was still there… Anton, because she simply enjoyed his company and his lovely manipulative nature. James… because he was so much like her. And he was a good fuck too. Though Lou and Anton had only been in the coven for about 100 years, they’d adapted pretty well. Except for when Azrael tried to decide what they could or couldn’t do. She may have let him take command, since she was much more interested in having fun herself, but she hadn’t given him the right to boss her around. She was still older, and she could still snap his neck.

Lucretia got out of the car, smoothing her form-fitting, short black dress over her curvy body and ran a hand through her dark, wavy hair. Her red lipstick was in place, and as she watched the brothel, honey-coloured eyes glowing with hunger, her full lips curved into a smile. Fortunately she was pretty sure she’d kept herself clean throughout her game with the blonde, so she didn’t need to shower or anything else she currently didn’t have the patience for, before heading in. Well... except for the dried blood under her nails, but they were painted red as always, so no one would see. Thinking about it, she probably had minor splatches of blood on her here and there, but it wasn’t much. Besides… Anton’s whores never asked.

Then she gracefully, hips swaying softly, walked up to the brothel. 5:30 am… and I still haven’t fed, she thought, right about now, I’d take a freaking O- if I had to. Then she opened the doors of the brothel, walked inside. Her mood almost immediately improved. Drawing in the scent of blood, sex and booze, Lou’s irritation evaporated, replaced by hunger, lust and excitement. Her usual O+ was in. Oh goodie. She grinned once more, licking her elongated right fang, gaze and nose seeking her fellow coven-members out.

Ariana’s fingers drummed lightly on the steering wheel of her car in tune to a bygone era single as she sped down the dense wooded highway towards her destination, the smile on her face a subtle indication of her joyous mood, it had been a wonderful evening, granted it had started off slowly, with no one really taking her fancy, until they came along. Ah yes that darling young couple, high school sweethearts, fresh out of college, him a Medicine Major and her an English one if she remembers correctly, just looking to spice up their relationship with a little Ménage à trois, naturally she had agreed, she knew it was rude to play with your food but the temptation was overwhelming.

And so she accompanied them home, to their modest suburban house and proceeded to do the deed, it was okay, Sex with mortals was always just okay yet with other vampires it was magnificent, like a new drug, intoxicating, addictive yet deadly. Ana could feel herself becoming excited once again as she thought about it and wondered if James or Azrael would be in when she got home.

After a final ten minutes of driving she pulled into a hidden lay-by, cutting off her engine she pulled down her sun visor to check her appearance in the mirror, running her fingers through her golden hair, smoothing out nonexistent knots before reaching into her bag to retrieve her lipstick, after topping the light colour up she smiled and pushed the visor back up. Stepping out of the of the vehicle, she walked around to the boot, her heels clicking on the gravel path and opened the trunk, smirking down at the bled out, naked couple, dragging them out she laid them on the ground as she thought about where was best to dispose of them. Ana hadn’t always been this careful or cautious when it came to her kills; she had lived nearly 650 years and had never disposed of the bodies or eliminated her trace from the crime scene up until a year ago and a run in with that blasted Anton after she had killed one of his whores. It wasn’t that she was scared of him, perse, but he had many years on her and she still didn’t have a damned clue what he had given her to send into that excruciating pain and hunger, whatever it was, it was something she did not want to experience again and so made sure he had no cause to inflict that upon her, again.

Once the bodies were dumped in a small dried up levine Ariana walked back to her car and put the key in the ignition, starting up the engine she turned her car and sped off in the direction she had come a mere ten minutes previous. It wasn’t long until she arrived back at the mansion, parking her car by the garage Ana jumped out and walked into their home, stripping her blood soaked top as she went “Anyone home?” she called out dumping her keys on the kitchen counter, something that always made her laugh, the fact that they had a kitchen seemed rather ridiculous especially when they preferred to have their dinner alive.

Azrael reclined back in the chair, drumming his fingers impatiently upon the desk. He did not speak and long ago had taken his last breath. Silence screamed in the room as the moonlight reflected against the man’s silver eyes. He sunk back into the shadows of the room, waiting, watching, wanting for the door of the office to open.

Tonight was not for pleasure as many of Azrael’s night strolls were. He had stolen into a recently born night, not bothering to wait for the sun’s red glow to leave the earth. He had waited much too long for this appointment and was bringing to lose his temper. And that would not do.

The sliver orbs shifted quickly to the sound of a door knob shifting. And still, the man did not move. He remained mute as the old man walked into the office and began to settle down, ignorant to the unworldly presence. He was humming. The sound was like daggers to Azrael’s sensitive ears.

At last the elder vampire could take it now more. He pressed his finger tips together as if trapped by great thought and straightened his shoulders. “Theodore.” His words pierced the silence with an unnatural hush.

The man turned with surprise, blinking and searching for the source. “W-who is there?”

Azrael smiled to himself and rose, stepping into the light. “Do not fear old friend, it is just I."

The man squinted, his pathetic mortal eyes unable to sense the movement. At last he blinked, nodding with welcome. "Ah, Azrael. What are you doing here?" The man's voice was even, his eyes flat. Perfectly calm to anyone that watched. Any human, that is. Azrael could see it, the slight twitch of his lip, the bead of sweat tricking down his neck. The man was nervous.

"I was in the neighborhood and wanted to see an acquaintance of mine, is that so wrong?" Azrael asked softly. The vampire was the essence of calm, his voice soothing to the ear and never reaching an unpleasant octave. "And there is some business I have with you, Theodore. Or, a question if I may ask."

The man blinked and nodded, shuffling to sit behind the safety of his desk. He kept his hands busy, eyes darting about the room. "W-what would you like?" Ah, the breaking voice, the tell tale sign of guilt. Azrael's lip twitched into a smile.

Azrael chose not to answer right away. Instead he leaned against the wall and removed a small, black book from his breast pocket. No one ever saw the contents of this book except Azrael. It was said that the identity of every person he had ever met found residence within its fading lines. Perhaps it kept stock of all his business transactions. No one knew for certain, no one but for Azrael. The man watched as Azrael licked his finger and began thumbing through the book, pausing on a page and appearing to ponder the words carefully. At last, there was the sharp click of a pen as Azrael drew a single line through some text. The man shifted slightly, as if he could peer over Azrael's shoulder as read what was done.

"What is it you want, Theodore? Money, fame, fortune perhaps?" Azrael seemed to roll these words about his tongue, snapping the book closed and returning it to his pocket.

"I- I don't know what you mean."

Azrael smirked, his long legs strolling towards the man. "Oh, but I think you do. Do you think you can steal from me?"

"W-What?" The man begun to turn red, flustering with every word.

"You have me quite stumped, Theodore. Slipping the stock money between accounts like that. Do you have any idea how many days I had to stay away to find the error? The one slip that proved your guilt? I applaud you, however. Well done indeed."

The man fumbled with his hands, knocking over a cup of pens. The scent of fear drafted into to room. "Azrael, I-- I wouldn't do that. Not from you!"

"Ah, but you did." Azrael smiled to the man, his eyes a silver mist of mercury. "So what was it, eh? Fame, fortune, or money? I can still give you fame." The man swallowed, followed Azrael with his eyes as the vampire strolled casually around the room. "Yes, I can see it now. You will make headlines for weeks."

"You can't call the cops on me!" the man shouted, jumping from his seat. His face was hot and panting, rage filling his eyes. "If I go down, you go with me. I've looked into your company and there are a lot of empty blanks. For one, I haven't even found a birth record for any Azrael Hazzick. How do you explain that?"

Azrael smiled lazily to the man. This Theodore was smart. Too smart. Azrael could have used him well if it were not for this mishap. "November 18, 1229."
The man looked to Azrael as if he had gone mad. His arrogance grew into bold rage. "What?"

"My birth date," Azrael responded pleasantly. "November 18, 1229."

The man scratched his head, glaring to Azrael. "That would make you-"

"Seven-hundred and eighty-three." Azrael smiled, licking his lips. "And I do not need the police to settle my matters."

There was a flash of movement, a tussle of papers, and a muffled cry. Followed by silence and the stench of iron.

Azrael sighed heavily, gazing down to the man as life ebbed away. He was gurgling softly, a repulsive sound that brought a frown to Azrael's face. "How unfortunate you walked into the robbery," Azrael cooed to the corps as he strolled around the room slowly. He shattered every lamp and fixture he passed, continuing his monologue. "The robbers fought hard, stabbing you multiple times and ending with a broken neck. It must have been painful indeed as death did not come for many hours. Of course, you were dead by the time your secretary came in." Azrael grinned, returning to the man. "Remember this," he hissed, staring into the dying man's glazing eyes. "Only I get to chose who fuck with me." He kicked the man hard in the stomach, a sickening crack filling the air as multiple ribs were snapped like kindling.




Azrael lounged in the mansion's library as the other's began their way home. He frowned softly, his mind dwelling from the book he was reading. He had not eaten that night. He decided not to feast upon Theodore as traitors always tasted of lies. It did not matter, he had consumed enough blood the previous night to hold him over. He was not hungry anyway. Without a traitor, he was pleased that his investments would be brought back on track. But it was only a matter of time before someone else became greedy.

“Anyone home?”

Azrael smiled to himself, his eyes drifting up to the woman as she entered the house. It was not surprising she had missed him. Even vampires had trouble distinguishing Azrael from the shadows. "Allo, Ana," he said, closing his book and smiling pleasantly to her. He brought his accent back for a moment, knowing she enjoyed. She was covered with the perfume of death. It caused a sharp twitch in Azrael's fangs. "I see you had a good time tonight. Is that. . . two mortals I smell?"

For long hours Anton had been sealed up in his room at their little mansion with his favorite toy. She was something beautiful to look at in between reading dull ledgers, or during tedious phone calls. Not to mention when alone she was one to forsake clothing without command to, but the fun had finally come to an end. The old vampire sat in utter stillness, a practiced type that helped him blend into the environment, with his tired little toy curled against his chest, fighting to stay awake. Azreal had come home, and Anton wasn't exactly ready for conversation, especially with what he smelled on the boy, and the annoyance that had surged in him. Misa had felt it too, she was well trained to be good at reading others emotions with few signs to go off of. It did little to soothe him, not like it did his little pawn Theodore any good, but still. For the moment however, it was much more fun to stay up in his room and watch the coven scurry around and play at house. It was a true shame however, when another scent entered the den.

A sigh slipped from Anton's thinned lips, a curious sound from a man like him. He felt another sigh coming as the first caused the toy he currently kept in his lap to cock her pretty little head to the side in silent question. He was glad she knew better than to speak with other coven members home, only the fact that she spent so much time with Anton, both sexually and normally, that their scents blended enough to avoid instant detection from anyone but Lou. “The children are home.” He mouthed, having to fight down a cruel little chuckle as he felt Misa run ridged. He wasn't sure why, but the fact she always felt like a cattle waiting to be slaughtered around the others amused him, a great deal. She cautiously removed herself from his lap when commanded, further amusing her master with the look of dread she had, knowing she could now be easily picked apart from Anton himself. As fun as lurking had been, he felt it was time to make a little entrance.

Lazily he'd gathered his usual attire, tossing Misa a nearly transparent silk robe to slip on. Silently, he'd pushed his door open, still fully focused on listening to the other two vampires. He didn't even care that as soon as his door had opened Misa had tightly wrapped her arms around his like a security blanket. It was a fitting image for him anyway.

“Good evening,” He'd called, whilst making the trek down stairs, finding himself in the kitchen far to quickly. Lucky for him, he didn't mind interrupting the two. He offered Ariana a nod of a greeting, but turned his devil's smirk over to Azreal. “And how's old Theodore tonight?”

It hadn't taken Lou long to figure out that none of the others where at the brothel, which disappointed her a great deal, even as she wasn't surprised. However, fooling around was not her purpose tonight, problem was that her lovely O+ had a customer. Lou could easily smell the man's arousal right next to her pet. She tapped her right index finger against her red lower lip, trying to decide what she wanted to do about it. Now, she didn't have time to wait, and she didn't much like it anyway, so the question was merely whether to kill the man, or let him live when she threw him out. Anton wouldn't mind, she knew. Not with her.

Lou slowly walked up the main steps of the brothel to reach the room, where her keen senses had detected her pet. And a man. Lou hissed, elongated fangs showing. They tended to have their own life when she was this hungry, and she was annoyed too. She didn't have the time for complications. In half an hour the sun would be up, bright and shiny, and by then, she would like to be home. Lou reached the door, smiling when she heard the man moaning with her Gwennie. She would let him leave, she then decided. Killing at the brothel was usually not a good idea. Well, unless it was a married man... 'cause then someone rarely knew, where he'd been, when he disappeared anyway. But again, she was out of time to check, so in stead she opened the door and merely stepped inside. She couldn't help but grin at the sight that met her.

The man was tried up, exactly the way she did with her victims, sprawled on the bed, naked. Gwen was riding him while whipping his upper body. How delightful! Lou thought, too bad I have to break off their little game. Gwen had turned her head when the door opened, her lips curling into a little, wicked smile when Lou stepped inside. Such a lovely welcome, indeed. Gwen was quite the masochist, so she liked Lou's games... well, until Lou went a little too far for even a masochist to enjoy, but she rarely did that with Gwen. She liked to keep the toy alive. No reason to kill a good blood-source.

"Now, while I don't mind you guys doing your thing, I sort of have a few things to take care of, so..." Lou looked at the man, "shoo." The man finally realized she was there, bit slow wasn't he? And he just looked at her, until a grin started spreading on his face. What? he though she was going to join in? gross. Gwen got off the man without a word, starting to undo his binds, but he protested loudly, stating that he'd paid for the entire night. It made Lou smile, naughty thoughts playing in her mind as she revealed her fangs to them both. "Fine... you can watch. Gwennie love, let him be." she commanded, watching fear replace lust in the man's face. Lou giggled and drew in a breath. Ah yes... sweet fear. Gwen had stopped untying the man when Lou had told her to. She was nothing if not obedient, after all. Anton taught his whores well. Then Lou, smiling all the while, enjoying the sound of the man protesting, and the scent of his fear, took three simple steps, reaching the gorgeous redhead in an instant. Gwen smiled up at her, probably knowing Lou's intentions, she shot her chest out.

Lou decided she'd have to make do with the sounds of horror from another than her victim, because frankly, she was hungry as fuck and Gwennie smelled delicious. She grinned at the redhead, putting a single arm around her waist, the other one sliding up to cup her left breast, lifting it. Lou gazed at it. It was simply perfect, plump and ripe, so she licked a slight path just above the nipple. She felt Gwen shutter a little, always so eager to please, as her delicate hand slithered its way into Lou's hair, urging her onward. That was all Lou needed, and she plunged her teeth deep into the woman's soft skin, moaning along with Gwen. This, was heaven to Lou, especially after waiting for so damn long. The man on the bed started screaming, and if Lou'd hadn't had her mouth full, she would've smiled. Considering she didn't have much time, one could say this was a pretty decent way to go about things.

Lou only drank until she was sated. Didn't want to leave Gwennie all tired. She still had a man to please after all. When Lou drew her head back, pulling her teeth out of the redhead's breast, a slight moan of bliss escaped the whore. Lou didn't bother to look at her again. She could smell the woman's arousal, but she wouldn't be the one to sate it. She never was. In stead, Lou glanced at the man, who looked positively scared out of his mind, licking a little stray blood off of her lips, her fangs retracting. "Slip him the usual, then give him what he paid for. It is your job after all." Then she turned on her heel and walked out the door.

-------

Lou was in a much better mood when she stepped out of her car at the mansion. The sun wasn't up yet, and she'd had all the blood she needed. O+ too. It wasn't that Lou didn't like other types, but if O+ was available, that would always be her first choice. Just like O- would be her last. She once again smoothed her dress over, running delicate hands down her body as she looked up at the sky, slowly starting to brighten. It appeared she'd been just in time. As she reached the door, the scent of O- met her. She made a face in distaste. It seemed Anton had brought Misa home, the naughty, naughty boy. They weren't supposed to bring food into the mansion. But then again, Anton made it his business to do as he damn well pleased. Lou didn't mind. She liked the fear Misa always smelled like when she knew anyone but Anton was around.

No one had apparently bothered telling her that Anton should be her biggest worry. It always humored Lou a great deal. So big smile on her face, a little blood splatters here an there, red lipstick in place, Lou walked inside the mansion. The door was never locked. They were vampires for Christ's sake; both her and Anton could hear a pin drop in their sleep. "Having fun?" she called out, walking towards the kitchen, where she could tell both Anton, Misa, Ana an Azrael were. The whole big, loving family... + one... and - one, she though, a bit sarcastically, grinning all the while.

Ana smirked at Azrael dumping her bag onto the kitchen counter next to her keys “oh it was delightful” she purred “A young couple, early twenties, engaged to get married in October” she laughed without remorse “shame neither of them will make it.” Walking over to the liquor cabinet she pulled out a bottle of whiskey along with two glasses “care for some?” Ana asked, pouring the cloudy liquid into one of the crystal glasses “It’s Irish…positively wonderful” she spoke in a sultry tone, turning back to Azrael.

Leaning back against the counter top Ariana sipped her drink and raised a perfectly sculptured eyebrow her eyes raking down the handsome vampire’s body “What about you? Good Evening?” she asked, her eyes finally catching the time from the clock on the oven, she honestly hadn’t realised it was that late, the sun would be coming up soon. Not that she minded it the sun, Ana knew other members of the coven despised the sun, not because it burned them alive or made them sparkle, HA! Where on earth did they come up with this crap? Laughing inwardly she shook her head lightly, no, the sun certainly didn’t do that to them, however it did sting a little, well to Ana anyway, she supposed it could differ for each vampire.

Ana was about to open her mouth to speak once more, however her lips pursed quickly “Good evening,” Anton’s voice echoed down the stairs and Ana tensed, a common occurrence when she was around that man. “Anton” she greeted, quickly drinking the remaining contents of her glass before pouring herself another. It was fair to say Anton made her incredibly nervous, silly really but after their little ‘incident’ he seemingly had some hold over her.

It wasn’t long until Lou entered their humble abode with all her splendour and Ana relaxed a little "Having fun?" The woman called out, walking into the kitchen.
“Oh plenty!” Ana laughed joyously “And you, Lou, good night?” she asked curious as too who she could smell on her friend.

Azrael smiled calmly to Ana, his silver blue eyes focused on her and only her as she spoke. This was said to be a charm that Azrael had when speaking with some; he could make them feel like they were the only ones in the world with his soft gaze and silent features. Or at least the only one that mattered. The truth behind this was impossible to tell behind the vampires serene exterior, but many females, especially his near victims, never thought this soothing trick through.

He listened silently with a small smile as Ana spoke, taking in everything she said whether important or not. Azrael was a listener. He would often stay quite through entire conversations just to watch those around him. In his prolonged death, Azrael had realized the bliss to a closed mouth and open ear. After all, it was the silent man that women of this era seemed the most drawn to. The men that had their secrets. And Azrael had his share of secrets.

The man smiled as Ana offered him a drink and rose slowly and gracefully from his seat. His long legs took only a few steps to close the distance between. "I would," he said in agreement to her, taking to glass from her hand. Azrael was careful that his fingers brushed against hers longer than necessary, a dangerous smile creeping on his face as he listened to her continuous ramble.

Before Azrael had a chance to respond to Ana's question, another voice rose in the room. “Good evening. . . . And how's old Theodore tonight?”

Azrael took a lazy sip of his beverage to prevent a scowl from gracing his calm face. He had been waiting for this conformation all night, but had been wise enough not to bother Anton while at play. Although Azrael demanded the respect as leader of their little family, he was wise enough to know what battles to keep and what battles to let slide with this man that was many years his senior. "Theodore has moved to a location with a bit of a more. . . blistering climate," Azrael said slowly, choosing his words carefully. "But I am sure you know that all ready or you would not be asking. I discovered he was a hazard to my investments. It was an interesting path he chose to wire the money through, however. I just wonder how the trail ended up to your brothel. Strange how things work out that way." He knew there was nothing that could be done about the money now. He would find some way to have Anton pay him back. Perhaps a trip to the brothel when he forgot to feed, but everyone knew that Azrael did not like to share, death was the only way to claim his prize forever.

Azrael sighed heavily, his gaze lingering to the woman clinging against his arm. "Anton, you know the rules. No blood in the house, even if they manage to leave alive. I may have worked hard to keep this house above the law with my contacts, but I will not allow your slip up allow anything to be traced back here. She must go back, now. The sun won't harm her and she has healthy lungs to walk. Otherwise you would have no use for her." Azrael gazed to him silently, challenged the old man as he expected Anton would. Even so, Azrael was the leader. Not Anton.

Another presence entered the room, causing a minor distraction to Azrael's words. He sipped his glass and smiled to Lou as if the prior confrontation had not occurred at all. "Welcome home, Lucretia." Azrael never called her Lou. Such a magnificent creature did not deserve a man's name for the sake of saving breath. "Fun is never possible without you, ma chéri," he said, grinning softly. "Anton and I were just discussion some business. Other than that, every has just seemed to have come home.'

Lou detected chattering in the kitchen, listening with her keen hearing. Ah... so Azrael was confronting Anton with Misa... she wasn't surprised, but she was a bit disappointed. She oh so enjoyed Misa's company! Well.. not entirely, but teasing her was fun, even if she was standing there, pathetically clinging to Anton, like he cared about her. If she only knew. “Oh plenty! And you, Lou, good night?” She heard Ana reply to her question, just as Azrael welcomed her, and she grinned, stopping in the doorway, half turned towards the hall, half towards the kitchen, and casually leaned against the frame. "Most of it was fun... until the pregnant lady spoiled my playing... never got to taste my food." Lou pouted theatrically, glancing at herself in the mirror hanging in the hall. Hmm... she was a bit more bloody than she'd first thought. Then her gaze found Azrael as he spoke again...

"Fun is never possible without you, ma chéri," Lou giggled a little at his words; Azrael, always the charmer. He was right of course. Lou knew she was a bunch of fun, fun, fun. "Anton and I were just discussion some business. Other than that, everyone has just seemed to have come home." He then added. Explained the mood between the two, the annoyance from Anton, she decided, and the scent of a guy she'd smelled on Anton several times too. Anton had been playing games again, then, and not for the first time, Azrael had ended up at the sharp end of that sword. Lou tsk'ed under her tounge, glancing between the two men, "now, now, boys... play nice." She purred, then looked to Azrael once more, "but no, dearest... I can't seem to detect James. Silly of him to be out at this hour..." She cooed, tapping her right index finger against blood-red lips, "I do wonder what is occupying my sweet doll." Then she looked to Anton, batting her eyelashes at him, saying something with no attachment to her former words, which wasn't really unusual. Lou often went from one conversation to the other in an instant, one mood to the other, one idea to the other... it was all one big bipolar mixture.

"I must apologize for the blood. Sure hope no one's hungry. Else, I'm quite lick-able, I assure you..." She'd said the words casually, her gaze slowly roaming Azrael, letting him know that 1; she was ready to play, and 2; she knew he hadn't fed tonight. Then, slowly taking her eyes off him, to give Anton a little look to, she began examining her red, long nails, indifferently starting to scrape dried blood out from under her nails. She ignored Misa's presence for once... if Anton kept her there in spite of Azrael, she would have her fun with the girl, but at this moment, she was waiting to see what the man did. He might take offence at Azrael taking charge, but there was also a great chance he'd let it slip... getting his revenge quietly, perhaps while Azrael slept, or perhaps even in two years from now. Anton was nothing if not patient, as she knew quite well. The more she thought it over, however, the latter seemed the more plausible option. She should very much enjoy to see how that turned out. She, like no other, understood how Anton worked, and she adored him for it. She'd watched him cause wars, mayhem, chaos, dynasties crumbling at his feet. Azrael would do wise not to get on Anton's bad side, though she knew he already had... Anna too, and James. They had given him the title of leader, however, so Lou liked to at least let him feel like he had power over her.

Poor, lost souls, they were. If they even had souls. Lou had never figured that out. She'd once asked Anton, but he'd had no answer either. Hell, she didn't even know if humans did. Vampires didn't entirely die to be turned, they merely hovered between life and death for many an hour, so no... they had no answer to the life one had after death. Even if Lou would like the knowledge. She knew many vampires perceived her as ignorant at first. She was Anton's mad companion. Lou the loony. She didn't mind... she knew she wasn't quite right in the head, but it made her so much fun, no one really minded her oddities. Besides... if her opponents didn't think she was a threat, it was easier for her to take them by surprise.

She didn't have much need for that anymore, but it had been valuable back in the days. The world had been violent once... back when humans believed in vampires, and she and Anton had been much younger than they were now, wars had raged. There had been three factions of vampires; the Blacks, the Blooded, and the Horde, each battling to overpower the other, killing humans en mass to preserve strength. It had been bloody times, and being a lone vampire was dangerous. Fortunately, she hadn't been. Still wasn't. The bloodshed had come to an end when three old vampires, one of each faction, came together... they formed the Council. A council that still stood to this day, still made of the same three, withering old men, still attempted to keep some sort of order.

She remembered it clearly, it was one of her first memories in fact... well, one of the first she could clearly recall anyway. She'd killed more in those 100 years than in the 900 since. Oh, she'd liked it, she had... but she'd been fairly young, even Anton had, compared to many other vampires, so they had been in danger themselves, which she didn't like much. They killed eachother off in the end, though. Now... there were only four vampires older than the man in front of her. The three council-members, and her maker. Her maker, who had taught her how to be a vampire, and of whom she remembered very little. Most makers - vampires who were able to change humans, as very few were - didn't bother to teach their new monsters. It resulted in some violent and bloody problems. Problems that worried Lou, because they were revealing. Too revealing. The council had started to make rules to prevent such a thing, but as far as she was concerned, they were merely lucky that humans were adamant about their belief in the absence of supernatural creatures in the world. If they'd been more open to it, Vampires would have been discovered many years ago.

The scent of Theodore's blood already had Anton primed for the game he'd been patiently waiting to spring on the cocky whelp of a leader, and the subtle change in the arrogant boy's body as he acknowledged Anton's existence was enough to tell him it would be easy tonight. Carefully, he listened to Azreal's every little word, already shaping the direction of his ploy. "Theodore has moved to a location with a bit of a more. . . blistering climate,". Hades references? How quaint, Anton thought, holding down a little chuckle as he broke himself from Misa's desperate grasp, casually waltzing his way over to the liquor cabinet with the elegant, and decadent stride his body still commanded after centuries of pride and practice. Without thinking he'd blocked Ana's entire existence from his mind, and already factored out Lou, whom was drawing ever closer. Tonight's focus, for the time being at least, was Azreal, and Azreal alone. Normally games didn't present much challenge to Anton anymore, human's were easy, younger vampires prey, but Azreal was a special one. Especially arrogant, at least. With a small smirk he reached into the cabinet and wrapped his slender fingers around the neck of an vintage Brandy bottle, pausing as Azreal continued his little 'accusation'. "But I am sure you know that all ready or you would not be asking. I discovered he was a hazard to my investments. It was an interesting path he chose to wire the money through, however. I just wonder how the trail ended up to your brothel. Strange how things work out that way.". 'And there it is,' He thought, thankful his back was to Azreal, hiding his smirk. 'The arrogant child takes the bait flawlessly..'. Turning around, bottle in hand, face devoid of expression to face the 'Master' he allowed the boy to finish before defending himself. In all honesty, allowing himself the ability to focus on pouring a glass for himself, while hoping for more little games to spring up. A hope quickly fulfilled.

"Anton, you know the rules. No blood in the house, even if they manage to leave alive. I may have worked hard to keep this house above the law with my contacts, but I will not allow your slip up allow anything to be traced back here. She must go back, now. The sun won't harm her and she has healthy lungs to walk. Otherwise you would have no use for her." Taking a long sip to allow the Azreal's words to go down smoother, and hide his smile as the boy fell into exactly what he'd wanted, he waited until the fool was done trying to 'charm' little Lou to respond.

Reaching into his robes, he took an ornate Chinese dagger out, Ming Dynasty made, and calmly slammed it's point deep into the table with more than enough force to turn the old oak thing into splinters. In Anton's time, this was one of the biggest signs of disrespect one vampire could give to another, and though he didn't expect Azreal to know that in the least, or care, he did hope to get the boy's attention. "Your accusations wound me, child.." He made sure genuine disgust reflected in his tone, despite having none. "Firstly," With a quick snap of his fingers Misa immediately dropped the silken robe which did little to cover her to begin with, exposing her bare form to all in the room. She did her best to keep a brave face, but her fear was clear. Anton had just thrown her to the flames, but he wasn't worried in the least. "She is not simply blood. For your information I haven't fed at all in several days, something you should have probably been able to tell from scent alone.." Azreal had made it far to easy for Anton to "innocently" disrespect him at this stage, in front of the entire Coven no less.

"Should you be disrespectful enough to further accuse me of it, feel free to inspect her," Grabbing the bottle of Brandy he scoffed rather loudly, quite on purpose. "Some of us," He refused to look up from the drink he poured, another little disrespect sent Azreal's way, "boy don't merely view women as blood fountains and sperm banks. We have other uses for them, like conversation, or admiration of their beauty while we work on far more mundane things...As for your other accusations, of me slipping, and you arrogant little claim of contacts.." Setting both bottle and glass down Anton propped his Elbows on the table and leaned in towards Azreal's general direction. "Allow me to tell you this in a way so simple you may grasp it. Your 'contacts' as you say, hold no loyalty to you. They may suckle the putrid grime from your balls at the moment, child, but as soon as someone with a better offer walks by they'd be more than happy to slit you throat for it. I'd hoped you'd shown the competency to realize that, but instead you give me arrogance and accusations towards members of your own Coven." Reaching into a pocket of his robe he produced a small, folded stack of papers and tossed them onto the table. "What do you think I'd have to gain from stealing from you? A pittance of money I don't need? This pitiful amount? To disrespect you? Why would I want to do that when I held no ill for you, and if I did as you can clearly see now, you bring easier ways on yourself. I wanted to show you that the fools you think you have a hold over are just that, fools. The sheer fact you use them puts us all in direct danger, and not just monetarily." He set his glass down calmly, now looking directly at Azreal, intently focusing on every inch of the boy. He gripped the pommel of the dagger tightly, effortlessly removing it from the table. "Those are the papers containing all the information regarding the Swiss account your money is currently in," He extended the dagger to Azreal, pommel first. This perhaps was the most disrespectful way a vampire could challenge another to a duel. Offering your opponent your weapon, and a free shot spoke volumes. "If you wish to accuse me anymore tonight, do so now. Finish making a fool of yourself."

As Azrael conversed with Anton, Ana turned her back towards them to pour herself another drink, her ears pricking slightly as she listened to their conversation with intrigue, they seemed tense, Azrael in particular, taking note of his scowl when Anton had mentioned Theodore and with the unfamiliar scent in the air, she figured it hadn’t ended well for Azrael’s little friend.

"Theodore has moved to a location with a bit of a more. . . blistering climate," Azrael chose his words carefully, which confirmed Ana’s suspicions that Theodore was no longer in the land of the living and it made her wonder what had happened the vampire and his little human pet.

Turning back around she finally took note of the Asian girl clinging to Anton’s arm, she was about to open her mouth with a sarcastic comment about having humans in the house yet Azrael spoke for her "Anton, you know the rules. No blood in the house, even if they manage to leave alive. I may have worked hard to keep this house above the law with my contacts, but I will not allow your slip up allow anything to be traced back here. She must go back, now. The sun won't harm her and she has healthy lungs to walk. Otherwise you would have no use for her." Their leader spoke as Ana bit her lip hungrily and for once it was not towards the whore but towards Azrael, from a young age she had always been attracted to power, hell when she was mortal she had married a man nearly three times her age just to raise her position, releasing a small sigh she smiled, the day she had ripped his throat out had been the happiest day of her life when she ripped out his throat. And in their life, Power was the currency. Yet something puzzled her, Anton and Lou had many years on Azrael so why has they not challenged him for leader of the coven?

Shrugging Ana shook the thought from her mind, why spend time thinking about something when you really couldn’t give a fuck. Nursing her whiskey she turned away from the men when Anton started his lecture about, what’s her name, she drowned out his voice tactically with a roll of her eyes, a trick she learned a long time ago.

"I must apologize for the blood. Sure hope no one's hungry. Else, I'm quite lick-able, I assure you..." Ana laughed and tipped her glass towards her “It seems like all of us have had quite a night” she smirked, quickly downing the rest of her drink, she put the glass in the sink and grabbed her bag “Well I’m going to get changed, please don’t let them kill each other” she whispered to Lou as she passed.

“Goodnight gentleman” Ana purred softly to Anton and Azrael, making sure that she gently brushed past Azrael as she went.

Lou stood silently, listening, carefully and intently removing coagulated blood. It was much easier to get there, than it was to get off again, as she knew well, but she liked the process. She didn't know why... maybe because it was her way of having some sort of focus. She only ever had that with her plaything otherwise... and during sex. Preferably sex with Anton, but more times than not, the man was with Misa for the last decade or so. It wasn't exactly that Lou was jealous... or maybe she was, just slightly. Not in the 'don't touch my boyfriend'-way, but more like the possessive 'he's MY father, bitch'-way a child had. Though that didn't quite describe it either, since her relationship with Anton wasn't that of a child with her parent, though she liked his attention. She craved it... not just for yearnings of the body, but also the mind. She liked talking to him too. He was the only one who ever really knew her, how she thought, how she worked, what she liked... mostly because they'd been around eachother so much, stood by eachother, even when Lou wanted to enter this coven.

Anton didn't like a single member, she knew... he'd shown as much quite often. But he stuck around, because they were a duo. Had been for a millennium, and that wouldn't change. If Anton finally decided that he'd gotten bored with messing around with the younger vampires, they would leave. Both of them. That was the way of things. She didn't look up from her nails, until she heard fingers snap, and then... though the sound came from Anton, she glanced at Misa, who took off the barely-there gown she'd been wearing. She looked like a lamb to the slaughter. It made Lou smile, satisfied with the look on the girl' face, as she returned to her musings. The girl was trying so hard to like she wasn't scared. Anton probably hadn't told her that vampires could smell that emotion like an aphrodisiac.

After that, she didn't look up; merely listened to Anton's little speech. It was good, but that wasn't unusual. She knew he was messing with Azrael, trying to rise the ire of the boy, purposefully disrespecting him. She hadn't expected him to today, if she had to be honest. She'd thought he'd wait... but then again, it had been a fair while since last time, an Azrael had pretty much asked for it. When he started talking of his view on women, she smiled wryly, glancing up at him. "Yes, I'm sure Misa's conversational skills are just thrilling," she murmered, knowing Anton could easily hear her, "yes sir," she then mocked in a way too feminine voice, "of course sir... please drink me, sir." She rolled her eyes, shooting Misa a glare, sure to make her go rigid with fear. Her gaze then strayed to the two men, finally paying attention when Anton said "I wanted to show you that the fools you think you have a hold over are just that, fools."

She almost laughed out loud at the ridiculous notion, but instead, not wanting to ruin his little moment with Azrael, she merely smiled another of her wry smiles. He was so full of shit, she was worried he's burst with it. Of course Anton had only done it for Azrael... sure... right. HAH! She didn't doubt for one second, that he did have a desire to keep things hidden, and that that was a little part of why he'd played things like he had, but there were far easier ways to help Azrael grasp the fact that he was working with idiots. But no... Anton had made a game of it, like he always did, and she hadn't even dared him this time. She knew with certainty that Anton's main purpose had been the game itself. The fun of it. It always was. And she so enjoyed it...this time too. It was always so much fun to watch Anton weave his little webs.

Then she saw Ana move, commenting on everyone's night, before she reached Lou, whispering, “please don’t let them kill each other”, then the blonde bid the men goodnight and walked away. Easier said than done, Lou thought, watching Anton openly challenge Azrael to a duel in the most disrespectful way Lou knew how... offering one's opponent an open shot at one. Hm... that one was new. Anton rarely spoke with easily detectable actions... he preferred to hide in the shadows, working his words of magic. The fact that he'd openly invited Azrael to an actual duel, spoke volumes. With Anton, it meant that he was now officially done with Azrael trying to order him around, and take an arrogant tone with him. Azrael was not even a third of Anton's age, so yes... to Anton, it was like taking orders from a child, but this was still quite unusual. And frankly, she was a little surprised. Lou sighed, thinking of Ana's words. Fine, fine, she said to herself, but didn't move. In stead, she glanced at Anton as he finished talking, annoyed that she felt she had to stop the debacle. It'd been amuzing so far. But, she had things in the works here too.

"I don't presume any of you are going to let this one go, my darlings" she cooed, moving to stand beside Anton in the next instant, thickly framed, honey-coloured eyes capturing his, quietly telling him to stop before things went too far, though she had that little familiar, wicked smile still on her lips. She knew he'd know she wasn't doing it out of any feelings towards Azrael, or the coven as a whole, but because she'd told him she had a feeling trouble was headed their way. She didn't want the coven this divided when that time came, because though she and Anton were old, they were not undefeatable. Even a young vampires could kill older ones, if he/she was occupied by other things. She didn't know what to expect, but her feelings were usually somewhat correct... it was like she had a sixth sense, but she didn't know how it got there. She hadn't had it as a human, that much she knew... and since she didn't remember much of he first years, it was safe to say, Lou was digging for answers she'd never find. Something she'd grown to live with, saying that if she didn't remember, it probably wasn't important. But there were a few things she'd love to have answers to. "But," she continued, finally taking her eyes off of Anton's, sending Azrael a warning look, "it would be much preferable to other scenarios at this point."

Both men knew she loved violence and blood, so she really hoped they wouldn't think she went between them to prevent such a thing... if they'd do it without hostile feelings, Lou would be stand there in a second, watching with a grin on her face, but if the two men didn't start pretending to tolerate eachother soon, she and Anton would be leaving, and then they'd be three fighters short when trouble caught up with them. She wasn't scared, but she didn't want to die if she could do something to help it. Didn't really want Anton to, either.

Azrael's silver eyes never left Anton's face. He was well aware that the vampire had not feed recently so he did not bother to inspect the whore for marks of fangs. More than that, he had no interest in admiring her body as he found it utterly tasteless. Asians.... No, he could not understand Anton's desire for her. Azrael found that he preferred humans that reminded him of his homeland in France. Perhaps a young blonde or curly brunette with fair skin, but never a yellow tramp that could enjoy being used by someone that could have easily been old enough to start her family tree. He pitied the girl if anything. They said that Asians were meant to be smart. . .

Azrael frowned to Anton as he produced the blade and offered it to him. So this was what he had been planning. It did not surprise him that Anton would enjoy this. Any other vampire would have accepted the blade and rushed at the man. But not Azrael, he was much too careful for that.

Azrael broke his gaze from his elder only to watch Ana leave. She was a tease, all female vampires were. Part of Azrael wanted to slip off behind her and leave the old bastard on his own. He would have more fun with Ana anyway, and he was tired of Anton's harassment. He was amazed he had been able to take it silently for ninety-seven years all ready. As Lou joined the scene Azrael smiled softly and shook his head to her words. "Ne vous inquiétez pas, mon amour," he said to Lou, meeting her gaze. "I have better ways to spend my time than washing ash out of my carpets," Azrael said, hinting that he would have been victorious. With the back of his hand, Azrael pushed the blade away from him and turned his gaze back to his loathed elder.

"Blood is blood, Anton," Azrael said coldly, his silver eyes flat and cold. Azrael did not understand why he bothered with this guy. If Anton had such a problem with his rules, then he should have left centuries ago. Azrael did understand that it was Lou keeping him tied down. Sometimes he wondered if the price of the lovely Lucritia was worth the price. "Your whore still has it flowing inside of her. She must go. Today. You are more than welcomed to accompany her to the brothel if you fear for her safety. Don't mind the sun, it will just sting as you pass." He faked a yawn and turned, waving them off as he collected the papers to return to his study. "I expect that it will be gone by the time I awake tomorrow. Do not test me Anton, you are not the only one that knows how to play a game."

Azrael sighed and rand his hand through his hair, as he closed the door to his study. He wanted to check the paper work thoroughly. It would be Anton's style to leave the last few sheets blank to mess with him.

"Do not test me Anton.." Azreal's voice echoed through Anton's mind, arrogant and pathetic as its sentiment was, they sparked a chord within in him. Mostly one of humour. Thus humour was only accented as the boy foolishly turned his back, walking away in what he probably felt to be triumph, not knowing the danger he put himself in. As soon as Azreal had turned towards the stairs, Anton silently slipped a hand into an inner jacket pocket, producing an antique Colt .45 Revolver loaded with explosive rounds. He could have pumped five shots into Azreal before his foot touched the first step, ripping every limb off the boy, but instead of eviscerating the poor whelp he tossed it to Lou, chuckling as he did so. "It's things like this, Lou.." Fishing in different pockets Anton produced two more knives, three vials of odd liquids, presumably poisons, and one small, unassuming needle. "The boy doesn't think in the least, does he?" He sighed as he spoke, a little disappointed at how easy a kill could have been. "It seemed like for a moment he had his head on straight, refusing my duel. I thought he figured I had it rigged, but if he was willing to turn his back he obvious had no clue. What interest would i have in merely baiting him? He's so full of himself, he's enough to diminish as is..In fact..". The true plan of the night had gone off without a hitch.

The money in the account would correspond to the penny the amount Theodore stole, and subsequently transferred to Anton's brothel, however that's where it a vanished in a sense. The money was then transferred from an unknown origin to a Swiss bank account, something normal for any savvy, and illegal business man. The transfers and only traces the Swiss banks would be able, or willing to produce would show Theodore's direct accounts, and obvious fallacy, and where the real fun began. The Swiss would vehemently deny any knowledge of anything. That was their policy, and for accounts like Anton's no actual records were kept, but if closely investigated enough, a transfer of Euros from a Finnish bank was present. Something Azreal himself could find with a weeks worth of digging, probably faster with 'contacts'. That traces back to a little back in the middle of nowhere Finland, who keeps sloppy records, and showed a transfer from a Russian bank account. That traced back to an account hosted just off the shores of Nigeria, and from there it would normally become impossible to trace, accept every transfer to the Nigerian account was via credit card. Those could all be traced directly back to differing parts of England with enough work, but ended up seeming harmless. Expect for time stamps dating them all within the same hour. Looking up the date and Google it, along with the time window shows that a UK cruise line as held at gun point by Nigerian pirates. Case closed.

Except for the fact the Nigerian Government itself isn't smart enough to do that. Digging miraculously through file after file, and if you felt like glancing through the passenger log if you could get your hands on it one thing would stick out. A single name, a distinctly Russian name. Trace it to its owner, and you'll find your simple answer, considering he's a heavy dealer in the Russian black market. Would seem all extremely pointless, considering the months, and months if not years of digging ti could potentially take to puzzle it out, but a little piece of non-disclosed information made it golden. Six different nations, and the combined force of Interpol itself was personally monitoring each and every cent in that account. The American, and Swiss governments were fully unaware, but make one move towards that account and the Eastern World would be ready to jump down your throat. Everyone who touched the account, all deposits, withdraws, and anything bought with the money would be monitored and recorded the exact second. Best off all, not a drop of it pointed back to Anton, if anything it looked like the old vampire had finally been out-payed by the Swiss bank. Set up to take the fall for some silly Nigerian escaped by a Russian mobster. To top it off, Anton's contacts would be involved, ever so slightly, just enough that once Azreal touched it, and all his assets became monitored, Anton would be told his every word. Soon enough, the entire Coven would be completely monitored, and if that news came to light Azreal would have no way to deflect it. All the blame would fall to him.

"..Well, never mind my cocky ramblings, hm? Probably come close to boring you to death several times in the last century alone.." He pushed the bottle of Brandy across the tabletop, directly to Lou while he used his free hand to motion Misa to re-dress herself. "Care for a walk, Lou? Show these kiddies we can still walk in the bright lights?"

"Ne vous inquiétez pas, mon amour," Azrael said, probably thinking she was all swoon-y about the french, like Ana was... Lou wasn't attracted to attempted charms, however. No, she was attracted to intelligence and strength. Not cheap tricks, and not deluded power. It may work on everyone else, but Lou was no typical woman in any sense of the word. He did draw her attention, though, before he continued, "I have better ways to spend my time than washing ash out of my carpets." She didn't laugh, though she wanted to... in stead she shot him a little, wry smile, which was basically Lou's way of laughing silently, and ironically. This young vampire actually had the arrogance to think he could take out Anton? Well, then she understood why he would think he had power here. Sadly, however, it wouldn't be much of a fight. She may not have seen Azrael in a physical fight, but she had seen Anton, and he fought dirty. Very dirty. He certainly was no man of honor, and she had seen many men and vampires suffer from it. Azrael would be no challenge, when you paired that with Anton's superior strength, speed and senses.

The rest of Azrael's words were directed at Anton and had to do with Misa, so Lou didn't much care. In stead, she watched Anton. He looked like the whole thing merely amused him, which wasn't surprising, but she could smell something else lurking beneath it... probably slight annoyance. Also not so surprising, considering Azrael's attitude. Two men this cocky were bound to have their issues. She did think Azrael's last words were rather curious though. He actually threatened Anton, and this made her chuckle just slightly... a soft, pearling sound emanating from her beautiful painted lips. Their little controversies very always quite amusing. Anton's little games, and Azrael's arrogance, even though the younger vampire usually unknowingly played right into the elder's hand. She caught Azrael leaving and quickly turned her gaze to Anton, knowing he wouldn't be able to resist the temptation to show off. Turning your back on this vampire was like giving him your life. And just as she's suspected he would, Anton took out a his .45, before Azrael even took a step. But in stead of actually shooting, as the boy walked away, he tossed the revolver to her, chuckling as he talked. She easily caught it with one hand, looking him up and down as he spoke,

"It's things like this, Lou.." he started, and she raised an eyebrow at him, but couldn't help the grin spreading on her face as he took out several of his other little weapons. He was such a darling man! The vials especially excited her, because it was just so... Anton. "The boy doesn't think in the least, does he?" he then continued, and Lou shrugged, putting the gun on the table in front of them. "He doesn't know you, love," she cooed, looking up at him through a veil of thick, dark lashes. He continued talking of how big a disappointment Azrael was to him, and she giggled softly when he mentioned him turning his back. She'd thought the exact same thing, but she didn't say anymore, because Anton cut himself off.

"..Well, never mind my cocky ramblings, hm? Probably come close to boring you to death several times in the last century alone.." he said, and she smiled widely up at him, honey eyes sparkling, silently letting him know that he didn't bore her in any way. She ignored the Brandy though, she wasn't in the mood... she rarely was, to be frank. The others drank alcohol like humans drank water, but she didn't much like the taste. If she had to drink, it would be Brandy though, which Anton, the dear vampire, knew well. Too bad she just didn't feel like it. She glanced at Misa when Anton waved his hand in the air to command her to dress, so familiar with his little, silent messages to the whore. It was a funny thing, their relationship. Misa was a toy, someone Anton used until he got sick of her, then threw away, and she somewhat spellbound by him. He'd done it several times before, so she knew his ways. Lou was the only consistent woman in his life, and she liked it that way. Would do almost anything to keep it that way. Most of the time she even thought of killing his temporary little doves, but she knew he wouldn't like it... Anton hated bad investment, after all. And a premature death of his little trained whore, would be a very bad investment indeed. So she dealt.

"Care for a walk, Lou? Show these kiddies we can still walk in the bright lights?" he then said, which had Lou making a face at him. He knew she hated the sun, so she wondered why he would ask her to walk outside. Perhaps he didn't want the pups listening in on their conversation. She sighed, glaring up at him for a little while, eyes narrowed, "it's a wonder my skin isn't tanned with your newly-acquired love of the sun, Anton." By newly-acquired, she of course meant in the last 100 years. Then she smiled wryly, looking him over before glancing at Misa, presenting the girl with a show of fangs and a little, frightening hiss. Then she smiled again, all innocence and looked back at her vampire. "But, I will, as always, accompany you... I'm afraid your dove has lost her wings, however." She then added, bright smile and a glint in her eyes. She always called Anton's favorite whores doves, so he'd know who she meant.

She stepped closer to him, running her index finger's nail gently down his neck, purring softly, "would you be very much divergent to my helping her fly?", lips just by his ear, her body just touching his. She gave the lobe a slight nibble, looking up at him, her eyes partly covered by eyelashes hanging low. She was pretty sure he would, but she liked asking once in a while anyway, hoping his answer would eventually change. When he got sick of the girl, Lou would definitely be there... as she had been the last many times. It was safe to say Anton's playthings didn't last long after losing his immediate interest, even if Lou would never stick her teeth into them. They were always that disgusting O-.

Ariana climbed the stairs, her hand placed on the banister like mortals did to keep her from falling, no that she would hurt herself if she did but it was somewhat a force of habit. Within seconds she was at the door to her room and walked inside shutting it behind her, releasing a breath of relief she began to strip from her blood stained clothes and dumped them into the washing hamper, walking into her bathroom she filled the sink with water and proceeded to cleanse her face. Drying her face she looked up at her reflection making sure that all the traces of blood had gone from her face and naked body, once satisfied she picked up her ivory bristle comb, something she had owned since the Victorian age and ran it through her long curls before setting it down beside the basin.

Walking out she fell back onto her plush, king sized bed with a slight thump as her body sunk into the mattress, casting her gaze towards the high ceiling she stared at the coving as her mind idly ran through a series of thoughts, none holding any real importance. Ana’s room was the only place in the entire world where she could find solitude; it was quiet and elegant and reminded her of the Georgian era with its regal design and had everything she could ever possibly need, which in hindsight probably wasn’t the best idea when she would spend days on end locked in here, reading and listening to music.

Pushing herself up from the bed she grabbed her robe of the chaise longue at the foot of her bed and covered naked body before walking over to a cabinet where she stored her liquor, poring herself a glass of well aged brandy she sat down at her vanity and opened a draw. Hesitating a moment before she slipped her hand into the draw and pulled out several pieces of old paper, sighing she cast her eyes over the sketches for the first time in a long time. Her eyes remained emotionless and her face stoic as she looked over the images of her son, it was something she did rarely for she held no emotion towards them anymore; she didn’t know why she didn’t just burn them but every time she went to do it something pulled her back at the last minute. With a shake of her head she once again shut them away, not to look at them for another decade, it was just the way things were, no use dwelling on the dead.

Standing up she quickly drank her drink before grabbing the bottle an another class, leaving her room she walked down the corridor and knocked lightly at Azrael’s door intrigued to see how his little dispute with Anton had ended.

Azrael gave a long sigh as he place the stack of papers back on his desk, bored and annoyed that he needed to go through this all by hand. Even with the new technology in this era, he preferred to keep written accounts of his paper work. Call him old fashioned if you dare, but he felt this was safer. And it gave him something to do during the sleepless hours of the day. Azrael did not sleep much for he hated the wasted time. He knew his limitations well, however, and was aware that it would be a few more centuries before he could pass in broad daylight unharmed like Anton or Lou. This idea infuriated him. If they were so goddamn old and refused to listen to him anyway, why didn't they just leave? Azrael would be better off without having to look over his back every second. Now the bastard was even getting into his bank accounts!

Azrael groaned and leaned back into his chair to close his eyes. Anton... Did the old fool not expect him to realize the entire situation down stairs was a trap? Azrael was aware that turning his back would seem arrogant and cocky. It was his goal in fact. Whatever means Anton had to execute him, Azrael was confident that he would not go through with it. If Anton truly wanted him dead, then he would have stuck before now. It was Lou that kept Anton tame. By keeping Lou satisfied, Azrael knew than he would have nothing to worry about. It would be when Lou began to grow bored that Azrael would reconsider and re-plan his relationship with Anton. It would be much easier if he just left. But he would never leave Lou, not willingly at least.

Azrael's sliver eyes slid open to the soft tap, a smile gracing his face. Ariana. He was not surprised she came to check on him. The tension between himself and Anton were obvious to many, and of course, he had not missed her coy glances earlier in the night. "Ariana, what a surprise," he said with humor as he opened the door and leaned against the frame to stare down at her. "What brings you here?" He smiled and pulled her chin up with his finger so that their eyes were forced to meet. "La curiosité a tué le chat," he purred, his white teeth flashing in the dim light. It was a game they played, even if Azrael was sure the poor girl never knew what he said in French. It did not matter either way, but perhaps she had picked up some of his native language in their years together.

"Come, come, Ana," he said ushering her into the room. Azrael was careful to have her walk in front so he could enjoy the view. He was positve that there was nothing underneath the red robe. What a tease this one could be. "Now, my dear. What is it you would like?"

As soon as Lou stepped in to his range, honey laden words still dripping from her fangs, Anton's arm slipped around Lou's impeccable waist, firmly shackling her to his less-than-imposing frame. It was habit mostly, he'd learned very early with Lou that everything with her should border on straight constraint, so by now it was done without thinking, something he was rather thankful considering he wasn't focused on her actions in the slightest. His Emerald green eyes were fixated on his little pet, her beautiful face screwed up in lines of obvious jealousy, if not raw anger. A sight that usually pleased him to no end, but was ever so accented today. He knew why Lou was suddenly so close, so taunting in touch and speech, she'd never admit it, but she was just as jealous as the little human whore who seemed to get all his attention, and it satisfied him for the moment. Smirking even more as his other hand found its way to her pale cheek, cupping it surprisingly gently for a vampire, he wasn't sure which would be more amusing, denying or indulging, until Azreal crept into his mind. The last thing Anton wanted to do was make himself a liar, so deny it was.

Craning down just enough he brushed his lips over hers, "You silly little girl," He teased. "You know she's got her wings so long as I desire them...And as for a tan, honestly? Take an umbrella, you fool. We need to talk, and sadly, the sunlight is the only safe place, for now."

"Ariana, what a surprise,"

Ana smirked with a chuckle at Azrael, she could hardly blame him for expecting her; she wasn’t exactly subtle when it came to the way she looked at him especially when lust began to overtake her senses. "What brings you here?" he asked lifting her chin to look him in the eyes, his blue pools "La curiosité a tué le chat," he purred causing her to chuckle “curiosity killed the cat huh?” she raised an eyebrow “Whatever could you mean Azrael?” she asked quickly running her tongue over her top lip.

"Come, come, Ana," he said ushering her into the room. Ana nodded and brushed passed him, placing the bottle and glasses onto his desk, quickly glancing at the papers scattered across it, before turning back towards Azrael when he spoke again “Well I came to see if you were still breathing” she stated grabbing the bottle from behind her and waved it front of him “I think you’ll like this one it French and very old, a lot like yourself” she smirked pouring them each a glass, outstretching her arm she offered him one “It too good to drink by myself.”

“I have to admit I am a tad surprised to see you still in one piece, I know how vengeful Anton can” she commented sipping her brandy.

Azrael chuckled to Ana's comment on his age. This was the one difference between humans and vampires. Human fears the ticking clock where as vampires craved to live past the centuries and grow. In Azrael's world, power came with age. To feel self conscious of how much older than Ana he was would be to cast away the extra strength he had acquired. It was this strength that Azrael held onto with an iron grasp. He knew that Ana was grateful for his age. He was a source of protection for the girl and his experience was never frowned upon when she became playful. And Ana, over the years, could become very playful.

He smile and took the glass gracefully, swirling it around to test the color. The quality of liquor had fallen in recent years. Azrael was glad that Ana managed to get her hands upon something of decent quality, even if he was less than interested in the liquor.

"That old fool knows better than to face me head on," Azrael sighed, looking at her from over the rim of his glass. "I do not doubt he could kill me. But my death would be of no assistance to him. If I did die, then our dear Anton would be the leader of the coven. That isn't part of his plan. If it was, I would be dead by now." Azrael smiled and walked around behind the woman in a circle, watching her carefully. "He can play with he all he wants. In fact, that is part of my plan. But now, ma chérie," he said wrapping his strong and well muscled arms around her waist and nuzzling her neck, "am I really meant to believe you came all this way to talk about two old men? Enough about that fool. What have you been up to lately?"

She didn't miss the smirk on Anton's lips as he watched Misa's jealousy take form on her little face. Lou, however, did the innocent act, smiling at the little Asian whore like she had no idea why she'd be upset with anything. In all honesty, she knew exactly which buttons to push with the whore, though she rarely played this card with her. Normally, Lou would merely scare the girl, though on occasion, she'd indulge and give Anton a little treat as well. She knew he enjoyed this little game... two women wanting his attentions. Though desiring Anton's attention was no act to Lou, what she had with him was so much different from what Misa had. She wasn't jealous that Anton had sex with Misa, or drank from her or anything like that, in the way Lou knew Misa's jealousy went.

No, Lou was more annoyed that the whore got so much attention. Especially since she was merely human, and Lou hated that she was being downgraded for a human whore. If it'd been a vampire, Lou could relate and it wouldn't bother her as much, but this? this was sick and wrong. She'd gotten used to it by now, though. She wasn't sure what Anton would think if the situation was reversed, because Lou's main interest had always been him. She knew he liked that; liked that she would always be there if he wanted her, but she didn't think he'd mind if she did what he did... however, she could never be sure as it was.

Lou's eyes found Anton once more when he cupped her cheek, emerald meeting honey. She'd always thought it an interesting mix. She presented him with another of her delighted smiles as his lips touched hers ever so lightly. "You silly little girl, you know she's got her wings so long as I desire them..." he then said, making Lou pout up at the man. She knew he was teasing her, but she really would prefer it if he'd just let her kill the girl. "And as for a tan," he then continued, "honestly? Take an umbrella, you fool. We need to talk, and sadly, the sunlight is the only safe place, for now." Lou sighed, resigned. He didn't really need to talk her into it - she'd done it every other time he'd asked, and she'd already guessed he needed to talk to her. She would, as per usual, bring her umbrella. Then her ears perked, as she detected talking upstairs. She listened for a little, a slight smile on her lips. Then her attentions returned to Anton, knowing he would hear too, so she would say nothing until they were outside,; out of hearing-distance.

"Yes, I know, dear, give me a second to change. Blood seems to be quite the head-turner among humans," she cooed, not bothering to answer the rest of his words. She merely brushed her lips against his chin, wiggled out of his arms and made her path up the stairs in the swift and elegant way only a vampire of her age, or more, could manage. She was back mere seconds later, no longer sporting blood-splatters. She was now wearing a dark-red dress, matching her lipstick, and a pair of leather pumps. She didn't walk into the kitchen, though, but straight to the front door, grabbing her black umbrella as she walked outside, holding it open for him. She then put up her umbrella, watching Anton. "Will we be leaving the dove, or putting her somewhere?" She asked. Anton knew that Lou didn't want Misa joining their conversations, and especially not the ones they kept hidden from the rest of the coven. It was no business of some human whore's. Besides... it was the only real time she ever got Anton alone lately, so though Lou was often easily swayed, she was adamant about this.

"Yes but still be careful, remember what he did to me?" Ana questioned nursing her brandy "that was a dreadful two days" she spoke with a shudder remembering the experience "Anton put me through all that just for killing one of his whores" she sighed "Think about what he could do to you" she warned tactfully, a trait that she mastered over her 600 years of life, she knew with Azrael in charge she was near enough untouchable to the others a fact she often relished in.

"He can play with he all he wants. In fact, that is part of my plan. But now, ma chérie,"

Ana smiled wetting her lips with her tongue as his arms snaked around her slender body, sinking into his embrace she let out a light moan as his lips came in contact with her neck "am I really meant to believe you came all this way to talk about two old men? Enough about that fool. What have you been up to lately?" Ana chuckled at his comment, with a shake of her head "no I don't suppose I did" she smirked "oh you same old, same old, what about you? You seem to be quite busy" she commented motioning to the papers on his desk "Anything to do with the little incident before?"

Azrael sighed softly to her words, smiling as he pulled her tighter against him. He wanted to tease her. "It was many years ago that Anton did that to you. And that is only because he wanted to show you who was dominant. It worked didn't it?" he said with a smirk. As much as Azrael hated Anton, he respected the man's methods. "You will never act out against him again. He knows it, and you know it." Azrael traveled to the nape of her neck above the robe's collar, kissing it softly at first and then applying more pressure as time went on. He was careful so that she could feel his extended fangs but so they did not scrape her skin.

"No I don't suppose I did" she smirked "oh you same old, same old, what about you? You seem to be quite busy. Anything to do with the little incident before?"

Azrael chuckled to this, and brought himself to full hight behind her. His gaze was cast to the papers and he left her to reconcile and reorganize the untidy stacks. "Anton was trying to show me that the humans I use are not the most... honest bunch of folk. But I knew that all ready. And besides, those humans that I would be able to trust do not hold office hours at.. convenient times for our kind." Azrael smirked and took a sip of liquor, watching her as he leaned against the wall. "He convinced one of my trustees to wire some money away from my account. It has taken me days to work through the paper trails to find the source and today I acted upon my results. It is a pity too, I rather liked that one. He was loyal to whoever paid the biggest price. I guess Anton won out with that one.

Azrael laughed and shook his head softly. "But there are more. Plenty of humans are corrupt enough for my business. And even those that aren't now, are easily persuaded. It makes it easier now that they enforce equal rights to women in the workforce. I find that those remain more loyal, especially if you find the young, impressionable ones or if they are ugly." Azrael laughed. "The things I do to keep this coven safe," he said playfully, knowing she would catch his mocking tune. "I almost feel bad taking advantage of the young girls."

"It was many years ago that Anton did that to you. And that is only because he wanted to show you who was dominant. It worked didn't it?" Ana groaned at his words, she refused to admit that, although slightly true she refused to admit to anyone that Anton had any hold over her, she felt him travel down the nape of her neck; he knew what she liked and was definitely teasing right now. "You will never act out against him again. He knows it, and you know it." Ana scoffed sharply “Don’t underestimate me Azrael” she sighed with a roll of her eyes.

Feeling him move from behind her she turned around to desk, picking up a few papers to examine them, her eyes travelled over the sums which seemed meaningless to her although not to Azrael, putting them down she listened to what had caused the dispute between the vampires “And this human would be Theodore?” she enquired pouring herself another drink, walking over to Azrael to top his glass, looking up at him through glossy blue eyes she laughed at his comment about hiring young impressionable or ugly girls “Well if anyone can charm them into it, it’s you darling, cheers” Ana clinked her glass against him before turning back around, walking across his room to admire one of his paintings.

"The things I do to keep this coven safe," he said playfully, knowing she would catch his mocking tune. "I almost feel bad taking advantage of the young girls."

Ana laughed running a hand through her hair and turned back towards him “like hell you do” she commented with a smirk referring to him feeling bad of taking advantage of the young girls “Some would call it perks of the job” she winked playfully.