Nathan's Coven

[Corey]

Nine Years Ago: Las Vegas, Nevada

Nathan Betancourt

http://i287.photobucket.com/albums/ll145/sojournfan/nathanonly.jpg

Nathan was wandering down the strip in the middle of the night in Las Vegas. Nathan had heard New York City was the city that never slept but he was certain Sin City was giving the Big Apple a run for its money. He liked it here. So much was going on during the night that it made it easy for a vampire to blend in. He loved making money and there were always plenty of women. Ethan would have loved this place. Thinking of his brother caused great anger in him. His murderer was walking free because of the coven. They decided to protect Chase and his precious little human...As long as they stayed home they would always be safe. He couldn't go home. He barely escaped with his life. He had hoped the Lucianos coven would have been too focused on that crazy cardinal but no. Thanks to Isabelle and Dustin's big mouthes they found out about his plans. Killed his allies and were going to kill him as well but he emptied out the bank accounts of his fallen allies and ran for it. He kept traveling, never staying in one place too long until he ended up here. Someday he'd make them all pay for what they did to him but for now he was going to enjoy his freedom. He headed down a side road where many of the prostitutes could be found. He liked prostitutes, they were usually good looking and easy prey. No one missed them if they went "missing".

[Jenny]

Jasmine Torres

http://i287.photobucket.com/albums/ll145/sojournfan/jasmineunderworld.jpg

Jasmine had been living in Las Vegas for about a year. She didn't mind it here, there were always clients and prostitution was legal in Nevada, so she didn't have to worry too badly about being arrested. She hated having to work as a prostitute again though but she didn't see what other choice she had. She had to eat and she had to pay rent on that dump that her landlord claimed was an apartment. She tried to have "regular" jobs after leaving Micha but he was surprisingly smart when he was sober. He would track her down and try to bring her back. Claiming they were still married, which legally they were. He would never give her a divorce, they were married to "death do us part" as far as Micha was concerned. She had left their home in Miami and kept heading west to get farther and farther away from him. Never staying somewhere too long in case Micha was on her trail again. The streets were the safest place for her to run to. She could disappear in them just like she had when she was 16. She prided herself into at least looking like a classy prostitute, not like the ones she had met that were just looking for a quick payday to score some drugs. Jasmine was always sober when she went to work and kept a small knife with her in case a client tried to harm her. She wasn't going to let another man hurt like Micha had. She headed to the Strip where she would have a large choice of clients and maybe some with a lot of cash.

[Corey]

Nathan Betancourt

http://i287.photobucket.com/albums/ll145/sojournfan/nathanonly.jpg

When Nathan saw Jasmine, he knew she was the one he wanted for the night. She was very pretty and had air about her that appealed to him. He approached her and kissed the back of her hand.

How about you spend the night with me?

He told her with a charming smile on his face.

[Jenny]

Jasmine Torres

http://i287.photobucket.com/albums/ll145/sojournfan/jasmineunderworld.jpg

Jasmine thought Nathan was handsome but he looked a little young. She had no idea he was a vampire and actually older then she was.

You sure you can afford me? I have some expensive tastes.

She assumed he was some trust fund boy that was in Las Vegas to spend money he never worked to earn. She usually accepted offers from older businessmen. They had lots of money and liked spending it to make themselves feel better.

[Corey]

Nathan Betancourt

http://i287.photobucket.com/albums/ll145/sojournfan/nathanonly.jpg

Nathan smirked at Jasmine.

Don't worry I can. Baby I'll give you the best the night of your life.

He flashed a large wad of cash in her face. He was confident in his skills in the bed that he would give Jasmine the best night of her life and her last. After he was done with her, he planned on killing her. Killing the prostitutes served a couple of purposes for him. He was able to get the two things women were good for and he would steal their money after he drained them dry of their blood. He had gotten quite a bit of cash by taking their money, after they were dead they didn't need it anymore. Cash was much safer to use, people couldn't track cash transactions. He held out his hand to her.

What do you say? I'll treat you to a nice date.

He could easily just take her down some back alley and get what he wanted, but this was a game to Nathan and he liked to play it. Taking his time always made it more fun.

[Jenny]

Jasmine Torres

http://i287.photobucket.com/albums/ll145/sojournfan/jasmineunderworld.jpg

Jasmine's eyes got wide seeing all the cash in Nathan's hand. Maybe she was too quick to judge him. He looked young but he might be one those guys who got rich at a young age through those Internet companies. She thought a moment and placed her hand in his.

I think it sounds fun. Where are we going?

She knew a date wasn't dinner and show on the streets. She wondered which hotel they would head to. She hoped it was a nice one because she hated the clients that decided they should head to a cheap rat infested motel.

[Corey]

Nathan Betancourt

http://i287.photobucket.com/albums/ll145/sojournfan/nathanonly.jpg

Nathan smirk only got bigger when Jasmine accepted.

Let's head over to Caesars Palace. We can gamble a little and then celebrate.

He could use Jasmine to help him win more money. He liked gambling as long as he knew he'd win. Although it wouldn't hurt him too bad to lose some money, after all it wasn't like he worked too hard to get this. Plus he could also spike her drink and that would make it harder for her to fight back when he decided to kill her.

I'm Nathan by the way.

He told her as they walked to the casino.

[Jenny]

Jasmine Torres

http://i287.photobucket.com/albums/ll145/sojournfan/jasmineunderworld.jpg

Sounds like a perfect idea.

Jasmine replied when Nathan suggested gambling first before they got to the real reason he had sought her out. She was a little surprised that he didn't want to just get to that but he was the client so she'd let him have it his way. Besides she could charge him more money the longer he occupied her time. And she could always spike his drink so she'd have a better chance of stealing his money after they completed their business deal. She didn't like stealing but if he was dumb enough to flash that wad of cash then she felt she should. After all she needed it more then him. He was rich enough to blow his money on gambling while there were times she was lucky enough to have three meals a day to eat.

I'm Jasmine.

She replied as they walked to the casino.

[Corey]

Nathan Betancourt

http://i287.photobucket.com/albums/ll145/sojournfan/nathanonly.jpg

Nathan walked into the casino with his arm around Jasmine's waist. He was glad that Jasmine was dressed classy. Some prostitutes made no effort and he didn't like those. If he was going to go gambling with one, he wanted her to look the part of a classy lady not a street walker. Jasmine was attractive enough to fit into this place. They headed towards the high roller tables and Nathan pulled her close. To the other guests it looked they were a couple. He whispered into her ear.

Help me win a lot of money and I'll give you nice big tip tonight.

[Jenny]

Jasmine Torres

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Jasmine didn't go into the casinos often although she had lived in the city for a year. She thought gambling was a waste. She had no desire to risk losing her hard earned money at a chance to win more. In the end the house always wins. Still if she helped Nathan win, then she'd have a chance to steal more for him, so she nodded her head.

Just tell me what you want to do tiger.

Jasmine whispered back to him as she kissed his cheek.

[Corey]

Nathan Betancourt

http://i287.photobucket.com/albums/ll145/sojournfan/nathanonly.jpg

Nathan grinned when Jasmine agreed, he figured she would. Women like her would do a lot for money. Not that he planned on sharing any of his money with her, but Jasmine didn't know that yet. He quietly gave her orders as they walked to a poker table. If she did what he told her to do, then he should be able to cheat the other players and the casino out of some money. Although he was careful to not earn too much, too fast. Dealers got suspicious when that happened. He made sure to lose a few hands but still walk away with a lot more then what he came to the table with. After he had won some money and felt if they kept playing the system, they'd get caught, he yawned and raised his arms behind his head to stretch.

Well friends it's been fun but I think I'm going to cash out and have some private fun with my lovely lady.

I don't blame you buddy.

Replied Bruno Sinclair as he looked over at Jasmine with a smirk. He thought she was beautiful and he'd cash out too if he had her to keep him company for the night. She seemed to be Nathan's good luck charm because Bruno had lost quite a bit of money he had earned from his last boxing match to Nathan along with the other three men at the table. Honestly though if Bruno didn't gamble he'd be very rich but he was too weak to resist the casinos and the promises of a bigger payday then what he already earned. Nathan chuckled.

Yes I'm a lucky man all around. Good luck in your next match champ.

Nathan told Bruno as he picked up his chips. He had a picked a good choice tonight, she was good at following orders and helped him win a lot of money. He had his arm around Jasmine after he traded the chips for cash and they headed up to a hotel room. It was time to get what he really had found her for. First he'd find out if she was good at her job and then he'd kill her. Once they were inside the hotel room, he grinned at her.

It's time to celebrate our good night.

He pulled Jasmine close to him and began to kiss her.

[Jenny]

Jasmine Torres

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Jasmine did exactly what Nathan asked and she was good at it. She was careful not to get caught but helped him with subtle clues cheat the other players out of their money. She was a little surprised to see Bruno at the table because she had seen a poster announcing his big boxing match. She would have thought he was rich enough from his earnings but apparently he liked to throw money away like the other people in this casino. Such a waste, if she had that much money she'd save as much as she could so she wouldn't have to turn tricks for a while. She thought it was a little amusing that she recognized some of the other women in the casino. They were prostitutes like her, it seemed Nathan wasn't the only one who thought of taking a girl out before getting what he was going to be paying for. She saw Bruno's smirk when Nathan announced he was done with the game tonight and just gave him a wink as she followed Nathan to the hotel room. Once they were inside, she wrapped her arms around his neck.

Yes it is.

She replied and kissed him back. She was going to give him a great time and hopefully wear him out, so she could steal that money she had helped him earn. It was only fair she thought. She had helped him cheat the other players and the casino out of their money, so she deserved some of it.

[Corey]

Nathan Betancourt

http://i287.photobucket.com/albums/ll145/sojournfan/nathanonly.jpg

Nathan's ego always lead him to believe he was a great lover and that anyone should feel almost honored to go to bed with him. The reality was that he was a very selfish lover and was only worried about his own pleasure and not his partner's. Not that Jasmine would have any right to complain. She was a prostitute, her job was to please him. He didn't have to please her. When it was over, he laid there on his back with his eyes closed. He was pretending to be asleep, he was waiting for Jasmine to make a move. She had satisfied his first need but now he was ready to sink his fangs into her soft neck and satisfy his other.

[Jenny]

Jasmine Torres

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Jasmine could Nathan was a very selfish man. He wasn't a very giving lover but he also wasn't the worst she had ever been with either. Although she knew not complain, she was here for money not to enjoy herself. She laid in the bed quietly for a few minutes. He seemed to be sleeping which was good, she could steal his money and make a run for it. By the time he'd wake up, she'd be long gone. She moved as carefully and quietly as she could out of the bed and reached down to grab his pants. She kept looking over her shoulder to make sure Nathan was still asleep and he appeared to be. She took the wad of cash out of his pocket and then began to search the floor for her clothes while keeping a tight grip on the money.

[Corey]

Nathan Betancourt

http://i287.photobucket.com/albums/ll145/sojournfan/nathanonly.jpg

Nathan could feel Jasmine get out of the bed and he knew what she was doing. She was trying to steal from him, he had many prostitutes in the past try to steal from him. Well they always got what was coming to them, just like she would. When Jasmine began to search for her clothes, he quietly moved across the bed and grabbed her by the back of her hair and dragged her back onto the bed.

You think you can steal from me?!

He growled in her face with his fangs flashing. He wasn't hiding that he was a vampire anymore, there was no need. She'd be his meal soon. Nathan straddled her to keep her trapped under him in the bed.

You're going to make a fine meal.

[Jenny]

Jasmine Torres

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Jasmine only screamed out a little when Nathan grabbed her hair. She cursed herself not getting a chance to drug him after all since he was clearly just pretending. She glared up at him and yelled.

Yeah I do! I need the money more then you!

She was scared when she saw his fangs, she thought vampires were just stories. Some prostitutes tried to say there were vampires in the streets but Jasmine never believed them. She never encountered an immortal before and honestly thought the girls who told her about vampires weren't very sober at the time. Now she knew it wasn't just stories and that Nathan wanted to more from her then just a good time. Still she wasn't going to show him she was scared. She never let any man know they scared her and she wasn't going to beg him not to hurt her either. In her experience, that never worked.

That's good to know. Go ahead and get it over with.

[Corey]

Nathan Betancourt

http://i287.photobucket.com/albums/ll145/sojournfan/nathanonly.jpg

Nathan was surprised at Jasmine's reaction. He was used to women crying and begging him not to bite them.

Really? You aren't upset you're going to die very shortly?

[Jenny]

Jasmine Torres

http://i287.photobucket.com/albums/ll145/sojournfan/jasmineunderworld.jpg

Hmmm....no. Actually you'll be doing me a favor.

Jasmine replied and was a little surprised at herself that it was the truth. She never thought of herself as suicidal but it wasn't like she had much going for her. She had no family unless you count a mother who was useless and probably died from sticking a needle in her arm too many times. She was always moving in fear of an abusive ex coming from her and she was a prostitute. She wasn't even considered a person that had rights. No one would miss if she was dead and at least she wouldn't have to sell her body anymore.

Maybe the next life will be better for me.

She told Nathan and moved her hair off her neck and turned her head so it was exposed to him.

[Corey]

Nathan Betancourt

http://i287.photobucket.com/albums/ll145/sojournfan/nathanonly.jpg

Nathan never had any woman he attack react like Jasmine was. She almost seemed happy to die. He wondered if it was an act and asked her.

You don't care if your parents cry that you're dead?

Usually mentioning ones parents would get a reaction he was looking for. He resisted the urge to sink his fangs into Jasmine's neck to see what she would say.

[Jenny]

Jasmine Torres

http://i287.photobucket.com/albums/ll145/sojournfan/jasmineunderworld.jpg

Jasmine scoffed at Nathan's question about her parents.

Yeah that's not going to happen. Let's see I haven't seen "Mommy" since I was 8 and she was always too high to care what happened to me, so I doubt it would change. And "Daddy"...well who knows which ones of Mommy's clients he was.

Jasmine couldn't understand why Nathan was asking her questions now, the more she thought about it...The better dying sounded. No one could hurt her anymore and maybe she'd find some happiness and peace in the next life.

What are you waiting for? Do it. Life's dealt me a sh*tty hand Nathan and I'm ready to fold.

[Corey]

Nathan Betancourt

http://i287.photobucket.com/albums/ll145/sojournfan/nathanonly.jpg

As Nathan listened to Jasmine, his mind started to come up with an idea. After escaping from the war, he hadn't thought of building a coven much. He was too concerned about making sure he wasn't found but there was safety in numbers and Jasmine would be perfect for it. She wouldn't have a hard time walking away from her old life. And their cheating at the casino showed she could follow orders well. He touched her neck with his index finger and told her.

You know I think you and I could be good friends. We worked well together at the casino and had some fun a little while ago.

Nathan said with a smirk. Well at least he was pleased with what they did, it didn't really matter if Jasmine was pleased or not.

You said life was sh*tty for you, I could give you a chance at a better life. One where you don't have to do this. One where you'd be important, where you could belong. See I'm thinking of building a coven, a family and you could be the first member of it.

[Jenny]

Jasmine Torres

http://i287.photobucket.com/albums/ll145/sojournfan/jasmineunderworld.jpg

It was true they had worked well together cheating out the other poker players but Jasmine didn't trust Nathan. Just a few minutes ago he wanted to kill her.

Why?

[Corey]

Nathan Betancourt

http://i287.photobucket.com/albums/ll145/sojournfan/nathanonly.jpg

Because you are more alike then I originally thought.

Nathan didn't truly believe that but he wanted Jasmine to think he felt a kinship with her. He could make more money and survive better if he had an ally. The only thing they had in common was no families. Ethan had been his only family and he had been killed by Chase. Someday, even it took him 50 years, Nathan would kill Chase and Rachel for that.

Life's been pretty sh*tty to me as well but as a vampire I can make those who wronged me pay.

That part was true in his mind. His ideas of taking over his hometown were ruined and someday he'd get revenge on everyone who ever wronged him. He could build a coven, gather followers to help him get that revenge. He looked down her body and could see old scars.

As a vampire no one would ever hurt you again and you could make those that did in the past pay. You'd be strong, an immortal. The little things in life would never bother you again.

[Jenny]

Jasmine Torres

http://i287.photobucket.com/albums/ll145/sojournfan/jasmineunderworld.jpg

Jasmine was tempted at the thought of being a vampire. It was true that she had been hurt by many people over the years. Foster parents who were supposed to help and protect her and Micha who was supposed to love her. She had a lot of anger towards those people. She wondered who had wronged Nathan in his life. Still if something was too good to be true, it was usually was.

What do you want in return?

She didn't know Nathan very well but she didn't think he was the type to do something for someone else with out wanting something for himself.

[Corey]

Nathan Betancourt

http://i287.photobucket.com/albums/ll145/sojournfan/nathanonly.jpg

Nathan smiled at Jasmine, he could tell she was considering his offer.

Loyalty. You help me get revenge on those who ruined my life, I'll help you get revenge on those who ruined yours. Trust me Jasmine, I can definitely give you a better life then the one you've been living.

[Jenny]

Jasmine Torres

http://i287.photobucket.com/albums/ll145/sojournfan/jasmineunderworld.jpg

Loyalty was something Jasmine could give. She thought he'd order her to be his sex slave or continue to whore herself and give him all the money.

You got yourself a deal. I'll be the most loyal person you've ever met.

She meant it to. Nathan was giving her a chance to be better then her mother. Giving her a chance to not be afraid anymore. She couldn't resist the offer.

[Corey]

Nathan Betancourt

http://i287.photobucket.com/albums/ll145/sojournfan/nathanonly.jpg

Nathan smirked at Jasmine.

You'd better be since I am saving your life.

He'd never let her forget that either. If she ever tried to betray him, he'd kill her. Just like he planned to kill Isabelle Lucianos and Dustin Gabriel someday for betraying him.

Now it's going to hurt a little but the pain's only temporary. You'll never age and be much stronger then you are now.

He lowered his head and sank his fangs into her neck to turn her into a vampire.

[Jenny]

Jasmine Torres

http://i287.photobucket.com/albums/ll145/sojournfan/jasmineunderworld.jpg

I won't forget.

Jasmine replied when Nathan said he was saving her life. He was saving her, he decided not to kill her after all and he was saving her from the awful life she had been living the last 36 years. She didn't see herself betraying him. She nodded her head when he said it would hurt a little and thought it couldn't hurt any worse then what anyone else ever did to her. It did hurt when he bit her but soon it would take a lot more to hurt her since she was becoming a vampire.

[Jenny]

Seven Years Ago: Miami, Florida

Jasmine Torres

http://i287.photobucket.com/albums/ll145/sojournfan/jasmineunderworld.jpg

Nathan had taught Jasmine a lot since he turned her into a vampire and she repaid him by loyally following his orders with out asking questions. She was happy that she longer no had to be a prostitute to survive. Nathan was the last client she had to pick up. She was the first of many girls to come into Nathan's new coven but most didn't last long. They usually said or did something that angered him. It was getting to the point where Jasmine didn't see the point of knowing their names. Nathan found most of them the same way he had found her. At first it bothered her but after a few months she got over it. She quickly realized Nathan wasn't capable of loving anyone but himself and that was okay with her. He had saved her from her old life, she didn't care about love. Those were supposed to love her never treated her right. She'd rather be with Nathan and have a better life then go back the life she had as a human. After leaving Vegas, Nathan decided to start a prostitution ring although he didn't make her be one. The only time Jasmine ever assumed that role was when she hungry and she never went that far before she drank a man's blood. The other girls were the prostitutes and it didn't seem to bother them too much. Nathan let them keep more money then their pimps had. But making money through prostitution wasn't enough for Nathan and he was deciding to branch into selling illegal drugs. She hated drugs addicts but she wasn't going to disagree with Nathan. It was true they could make even more money. Nathan moved them every few months to make sure the local law enforcement wasn't on to them. Still she didn't like that he decided to move the coven into an old warehouse in Miami, Florida. Her ex husband lived here and even though she was more confident in herself since she became a vampire, she was still scared of him.

Why here?

Jasmine asked Nathan as she looked out of the windows of the warehouse and could see the city lights in the distance. She never wanted to come back to Miami.

[Corey]

Nathan Betancourt

http://i287.photobucket.com/albums/ll145/sojournfan/nathanonly.jpg

Nathan was glad he had spared Jasmine's life, of all the females he turned to make a part of his coven, Jasmine was the longest member of it. She was so grateful to him it seemed she'd do whatever he wanted without question. Unlike some of the other ungrateful girls. He wished he had thought of selling drugs sooner, some of the girls complained how the drug addicts would hit on them when they were working. Well why not take advantage of that market as well? The more money Nathan made, the happier he was. He knew all about Micha, Jasmine had told him about her ex husband, just like he had told her that someday he was going to get revenge on all his enemies from his home country. When she asked him why he chose Miami for the coven's new home, he replied.

Because I wanted to. Besides your ex is here and you need to get him out of your life.

It wasn't really for her benefit that Nathan thought of getting rid of Micha. If he helped Jasmine get rid of her main source of fear, he figured she'd be even more loyal to him then she was already was.

[Jenny]

Jasmine Torres

http://i287.photobucket.com/albums/ll145/sojournfan/jasmineunderworld.jpg

Jasmine swallowed hard. Just the thought of passing Micha on the streets scared her.

I don't...I just want to forget he even exists.

She was a vampire now, she was stronger then him. Micha couldn't hurt her anymore.

[Corey]

Nathan Betancourt

http://i287.photobucket.com/albums/ll145/sojournfan/nathanonly.jpg

He doesn't have to. Jasmine you can't let a human have so much power over you.

Humans disgusted Nathan, even though he was born one. He had no compassion for them and when he had been turned into a vampire he gladly hunt them down.

Let's kill him and you won't be afraid every time a door slams or one of the girls yell. Make him pay for every time he hit you.

Jasmine could pretend to be strong but he knew she was still scared to death of Micha.

[Jenny]

Jasmine Torres

http://i287.photobucket.com/albums/ll145/sojournfan/jasmineunderworld.jpg

Jasmine bit her lip as she thought about what Nathan said. He was right, Micha was just a human. He was beneath her, he should be scared of her because she was a vampire and stronger then him. She tried really hard not to be scared but memories of Micha still made her afraid. She needed to get rid of him, she would finally heal if she knew he was dead. Besides the world wouldn't miss him. His family had disowned him a long time ago because of his drinking problems. They probably already thought he was dead. Jasmine nodded her head in determination.

You're right...He deserves to pay for every single time he ever hurt me.

She'd make him suffer before she killed him. Make him beg her to kill him.

[Corey]

Nathan Betancourt

http://i287.photobucket.com/albums/ll145/sojournfan/nathanonly.jpg

Nathan told Jasmine he agreed that her ex husband deserved to die for what he did to her. It wasn't because he cared that Micha used to beat Jasmine up but because his mind was thinking of how he could benefit from Micha's death. Jasmine constantly said no one would miss Micha if he disappeared. While the girls were out working, he and Jasmine headed to where Micha was living. He lived in a poor trailer park in a beat up trailer.

What a dump. Is this what he showed you when he promised you a "better" life?

Nathan asked looking at the trailer. He might like living in old warehouses or factories to hide his coven but he would never live in something this pathetic. He was certain the inside of the trailer would be even worse.

[Jenny]

Jasmine Torres

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Jasmine was a little surprised to see the condition of Micha's home, she shook her head to Nathan.

No we actually lived in a nice house until he decided to blow all his money getting drunk.

Micha used to have a lot of money but he wasted it. Before long they were in so much debt they barely had food to eat. Of course it had to be her fault, not his. Whatever things were wrong with his life were always her fault in his mind. Looking back she had been so weak putting up with it as long as she did. Her eyes narrowed as she saw the dim glow inside the trailer of a television through the window.

Let's get this over with.

She held her head up high as she walked to the trailer. She was tired of being scared of Micha, after tonight he'd have no power over her. She wouldn't let him. She was going to pick the lock of the front door when she realized it was unlocked. She quietly opened it and had to watch her step, there were beer bottles all over the floor. The place looked terrible and smelled bad. Micha clearly didn't care much about housekeeping. She saw him slumped in a chair in front of the TV that was playing a late night infomercial. Micha fell asleep watching it with a beer in his hand, he looked terrible. Gone was the man she once found attractive when she was younger. The man who seemed like the answer to her dreams, the one who would save her from the streets. One she could finally have a family with. His brown hair was shaggy and greasy, like he hadn't washed it in days. His face was covered in stubble and his clothes were wrinkled and it looked like he hadn't changed them in a few days either. He looked pathetic, not like the man who she used to have nightmares about. She stared down at him, unsure what to do when he opened his bloodshot eyes and mumbled.

Wha...Jasmine?

From his voice she could tell he was drunk.

Hello Micha.

Jasmine replied as he sat up and told her in a drunk voice.

Finally wised up and came home? Told you no one else would want you, you dumb bit-

Jasmine's eyes turned angry and she grabbed him by his throat. She lifted out of the chair and was holding him in the air.

No. I came to get you out of my life forever.

Micha laughed at her. Too drunk to even figure out how this was possible. Jasmine wasn't this strong until she had become a vampire.

Yeah right, you ain't got it in you. You're too weak-

You're the one who's weak!

She growled at him with her fangs flashing. The thoughts of prolonging this and making him suffer disappeared. She wanted to end this quickly. Micha didn't put up much of a fight as she killed him, he was far too drunk to do so. Jasmine ripped off his head to kill him and stared down at him with his blood on her. She couldn't believe she had killed him, he couldn't hurt her anymore. It felt like a dream, one she'd wake up from any moment. She kept pinching her arm to make sure she wasn't dreaming. She had killed humans before to satisfy her blood lust but Micha was the first one she had killed that had been apart of her life.

What should we do with his body?

She asked Nathan as she continued to stare down at him, almost expecting him to get back up and attack her like the villains did in the horror movies.

[Corey]

Nathan Betancourt

http://i287.photobucket.com/albums/ll145/sojournfan/nathanonly.jpg

While Jasmine went to confront Micha, Nathan looked around the trailer. It was even more of a dump then he thought it would, he turned his nose up to it. He was far too good to be in a place like this. It seemed Micha wouldn't be living in this place longer either. Many past due notices for bills were piled up on a counter and an eviction notice for the end of month was there too. Whatever money Micha had he wasted on his precious alcohol. Still Nathan found what he was looking for, Micha's driver's license and his social security number. He put them in his pocket and looked over at Jasmine when she asked what to do with Micha's body.

We'll dump him in the ocean. If we go far enough out, the Gulf Stream will carry his body far from here.

And it'll probably not get discovered. Even if someone did discover Micha's body someday, the water would wash any evidence Jasmine had left on the body.

Come on we only got a few hours before dawn.

They needed to clean up the blood although they were careful not too clean up the place too much. He was certain the owner of the trailer park would be more suspicious if Micha had suddenly cleaned up his dump. The plan was to make it look like Micha ran away from his debts. They packed a duffel bag of some clothes and to make it easier to move Micha's body, tore it apart. Nathan had found some plastic trash bags that were clearly never used since they were still in the box to put the body parts in. They loaded Micha and the bag into the car and drove off for the marina. Nathan kept a boat there under a fake name. They took the boat out into the ocean and dumped the duffel bag and the bags that contained what remained of Micha into the ocean. The Gulf Stream carried them off into the ocean. Nathan looked out into the ocean with his arms resting on the railing as he asked Jasmine.

So how does it feel?

[Jenny]

Jasmine Torres

http://i287.photobucket.com/albums/ll145/sojournfan/jasmineunderworld.jpg

Jasmine wasn't that shocked that Micha hadn't used the trash bags, it looked like he hadn't thrown any of his trash away in almost a year. She thought she'd feel something doing this, feel happy that Micha was dead and could never hurt again but inside she felt almost empty. She couldn't figure out why though. She followed Nathan's orders to the cleaning and disposing of the body. She was glad she had brought a change of clothes and threw her bloodstained clothes into a trash bag and threw them into the ocean with the other bags. She watched them sink into the ocean and disappear from her sight. When Nathan asked how it felt, she replied.

It doesn't seem real yet....Why did you take his license and social security card?

She asked, she had noticed them gone from Micha's wallet when she packed the duffel bag.

[Corey]

Nathan Betancourt

http://i287.photobucket.com/albums/ll145/sojournfan/nathanonly.jpg

He won't need them anymore but I'll make them useful.

Nathan smirked at Jasmine's question. Micha's death would benefit him. He looked up at the sky and told her.

We need to head back to shore before the sun rises.

They didn't have too long before it would be morning and the worst place for two vampires to be was in the middle of the ocean during the day. He drove the boat back to the marina.

[Corey]

Nathan Betancourt

http://i287.photobucket.com/albums/ll145/sojournfan/nathanonly.jpg

After disposing of Micha's body and returning the boat to the marina Nathan and Jasmine were heading back to the warehouse when they heard a loud argument down a nearby alley. Nathan was used to hearing fights in this area of town and was about to ignore it when he heard a familiar voice.

We've been patient with you Carlos but-

Look I have kids you have to-

You should have thought of them kids before you borrowed money from Vinny. Now pay what you owe or your kids aren't going to be able to recognize you.

Nathan remembered the voice from Las Vegas. It was Bruno Sinclair, the large successful boxer, trying to collect from a man who owed money to the mob. Nathan was curious about what was going on and motioned for Jasmine to follow him. Bruno was holding a knife in his hand as he threatened a scared man.

But I can't! I need more time! Just another-

You're time is up Carlos.

Bruno told Carlos and charged at him with the knife. The two men struggled on the ground and Carlos found a beer bottle and broke it against Bruno's head. It hurt and dazed Bruno for a moment and caused him to drop the knife. Blood was running down his face and he growled.

You're going to regret that Carlos!

He was trying to get to his feet when Carlos grabbed the knife and began to stab Bruno. Bruno yelled out in pain and tried to fight back but he lost the fight. He laid on the alley bleeding to death from his wounds as Carlos dropped the knife down in shock. He wasn't normally a violent man. He had only attacked Bruno in self defense...Still he couldn't believe what he had done.

I'm sorry but I....I'm all my kids got...

You better...run far away....with them...then...Vinny...will still...want his...money....

Bruno replied painfully as Carlos ran off. He looked up at the night sky and couldn't believe this was how his life was going to end. Bleeding to death after trying to collect money for Vinny. Carlos was supposed to be an easy collection, he was usually weak. Nathan watched Carlos run off and said to Jasmine.

I know I said I'd never let men in the coven but I think I'm going to make an exception for him. We could use him.

He wasn't asking for her opinion, he would do what he wanted regardless of what others thought. Bruno was a large man and from what he had seen from his boxing matches, he was tough. Nathan was certain this one of the very few times Bruno had ever lost a fight. He walked over to him and bent down.

Hey buddy, remember me?

Bruno looked up at Nathan and painfully nodded his head.

Yeah...you're the guy....who took all...my prize money...in Vegas...

That I am but it seems like you've seen better days.

Nathan said looking down at Bruno. He was covered in blood and it was getting hard for Nathan to control his natural bloodlust at the sight of all the blood.

No...sh*t...You here...to help....me?

In a way...

Nathan replied with his fangs flashing and he offered Bruno the chance to become a vampire. It would save his life and he would never have to work for this Vinny guy again. Instead he could work as a bodyguard for Nathan and his coven and be far richer then he ever was boxing. Bruno didn't think it through very much because he was dying and he didn't want to die. So he quickly agreed to the offer, saying that he would be very loyal to Nathan in return for immortal life. Nathan grinned at the response, he had had very few ever turn down his offer. He turned Bruno and told Jasmine.

You're in charge of helping him recover and deal with the transition.

He thought Bruno would be a good addition to the coven but Nathan's focus was usually on women and money. He didn't have time nor did he want to help Bruno through it all. He'd rather deal with Bruno when he was fully healed.

[Jenny]

Jasmine Torres

http://i287.photobucket.com/albums/ll145/sojournfan/jasmineunderworld.jpg

Jasmine was curious about the fight as well and thought she recognized the one man's voice. When she saw it was the boxer from Las Vegas, she was shocked. She wondered if his gambling had caused him to be in this alley collecting money from a man who seemed to be scared. She covered her mouth when she saw Bruno get stabbed and nodded her head when Nathan said he was going to make him a member of the coven.

Yeah I agree.

Bruno was a large man and they could use him as a bodyguard. She was certain, like Nathan was, that Bruno didn't lose too many of his fights. When she was told that she would be in charge of Bruno until he was healed, she replied.

That's fine.

She knew it wasn't a request anyway, it was an order. She helped Bruno get to the warehouse and the members that had returned home for the night were shocked to see another man in the warehouse. Nathan had made it clear he was the only male they would have. They tried to ask her about it but she just replied it was Nathan's will that Bruno join the coven to be their bodyguard. She found an empty room and helped him into the bed. He was still in pain but he couldn't help but find it ironic that a woman he was a foot and half taller then and was probably 170 pounds heavier then had helped him into bed.

You're a lot...stronger then....you look....

One of the perks of being a vampire.

I see...So that...mean you can...kick my....a$$?

Probably.

She told him with a smile and said she'd be right back. She came back with a bottle of whiskey.

We'll have to do with the old fashion way, we don't keep too many pain meds on hand. Here.

Jasmine was going to offer Bruno a drink but he shook his head.

No...

You sure? You'll heal a lot faster now but it'll still be painful.

Yeah....I don't touch that...stuff....I can....deal with the...pain...

Bruno grumbled in his pain and Jasmine nodded her head and set the bottle down.

Okay.

She wasn't going to argue with him.

You probably don't remember me but-

I remember....you....You were....with Nathan in Vegas....two years ago....

Jasmine was surprised Bruno remembered her, she figured he wouldn't. She figured he had meet tons of people as a boxer that he wouldn't remember her.

Yeah...I'm surprised you remember.

I never...forget a...pretty face...

Bruno replied with a small smile and closed his eyes. After the night he had, Bruno was getting very tired. Jasmine blushed a little when he said she had a pretty face and was glad his eyes were closed so he couldn't see her reaction.

Although you....never said your...name...

It's Jasmine.

Pretty name....to go with...your face....

Bruno said and before Jasmine could think of a reply he drifted off to sleep.

[Jenny]

Jasmine Torres

http://i287.photobucket.com/albums/ll145/sojournfan/jasmineunderworld.jpg

Jasmine followed Nathan's order to make sure Bruno recovered and to teach him about being a vampire. She didn't mind the assignment because she liked Bruno. She thought he was a nice man and they had a lot in common. Although she never did mention the comments he had made about her being pretty and he didn't bring them up. He didn't remember a lot of what he said as he recovered from his stab wounds, he was in pain and very tired. Although he was surprised when he was able to move around and had fully recovered that he was the only male in the coven other then Nathan. When he asked Jasmine why, she replied that Nathan didn't like to share much and preferred the company of women for an obvious reason. They were walking into Bruno's old studio apartment to clean it out when Bruno asked.

So are they all his?

Pretty much, he's never lonely.

What about you and him? I figured you two were you know...together.

Jasmine shook her head.

No, we aren't like that. Nathan doesn't love anyone but himself.

You're okay with that?

Yeah it doesn't bother me. He saved me from my old life...Besides I don't believe in love anyway. That stuff is just for fairy tales.

Jasmine was content in her new life, she was better off with Nathan and the coven then she was before. The stories claimed that love was supposed to conquer all but it didn't work out for her. Bruno nodded his head and accepted her change of subject when she asked what he wanted to take with him. There wasn't much, just some clothes and his punching bag.

You think the boss will care if I keep it?

Probably not, he'll want you to stay strong. It looks a pretty beat up. Have you had it a long time?

Jasmine asked as she looked at it. It looked like Bruno had had it for years and could use a new one. Bruno nodded his head.

Yeah since I was about 16. It's got a lot of memories in it.

I guess, you'll get paid well enough you can buy a new one.

I'm sure but...I think I'll hold on to this one.

Why?

...Because it saved my life.

Bruno replied and Jasmine asked him what he meant. Bruno sighed as he replied as he packed his bag with clothes.

My father was a terrible alcoholic who liked to beat my mom for no reason. She finally had enough when I was 15, after I got out of school we were going to run away from him but...There was a bad storm and she...She got in a car accident and died. When she was alive she protected me from him but without her...He decided to start beating on me...I started acting out at school and my gym teacher noticed. He got me into boxing so I could have an outlet for my anger. I was a natural at it and after I graduated high school, I got on the first bus out of that town.

Jasmine felt bad for Bruno to hear about his father. His father sounded like some of the foster parents she had grown up with.

Did he try to stop you from leaving?

No, he laughed in my face when I said I was becoming a boxer. He said I'd never make it. Of course a couple years later he tried to beg me for money when I started to get famous.

I'm sure he did. So where are your titles?

Jasmine asked, she assumed he'd had to have some. If she had been an athlete and won awards, she would have proudly displayed them on her walls.

I pawned them...

Why? You should be proud of them.

....Addiction is something that runs in my family. I don't drink because of my old man but I never could resist the lure of gambling.

As they finished packing what Bruno wanted to keep, he told Jasmine that his gambling habit caused him to lose all the money he had made boxing and made him the mob's debt. He had borrowed too much money from Vinny and instead of killing him, he decided that Bruno would repay his debt by working from him.

...Well someday you should get them back.

Maybe.

They left the apartment with Bruno carrying the punching bag and Jasmine carrying his bag.

Would you mind showing me some moves some time?

Not all but why? You're a vampire and pretty strong on your own.

Bruno asked her curiously as they put his belongings in the car and Bruno opened the passenger side door for her. She looked down at the street.

I....There was a time when I wasn't very strong and....I don't want to go back to ever feeling that way again.

I see.

Bruno replied as they got into the car. He wanted to know what she meant but she wouldn't tell him. Bruno still agreed to show her some boxing moves even though she wouldn't tell him what she meant. It took a while for Bruno gain Jasmine's trust enough for her to tell him about Micha and how he made her feel. Bruno didn't like hearing how she had been treated and swore to help make sure she never felt like that again. Jasmine was happy because she knew he meant it and she did tell share of some of her past with him but she still kept the darkest parts to herself. The fear of ever being or looking like she was weak was always in the back of her mind.

[Corey]

Five Years Ago: Moscow, Russia

Nathan Betancourt

http://i287.photobucket.com/albums/ll145/sojournfan/nathanonly.jpg

Nathan never regretted his decision to make Bruno a member of his coven. After Bruno recovered from his injuries he proved to be a useful and loyal member. Nathan could tell Bruno had strong feelings for Jasmine but Nathan didn't care. As long as they were both loyal to him he could care less what they did. Bruno didn't forget that Jasmine had told him she didn't believe in love anymore so he never told Jasmine how he felt. He'd rather be her friend then admit his feelings and have her reject him. Members came and went with Nathan, Jasmine, and Bruno being the only constant members of the coven. The drug business was proving to be even more profitable then the prostitution was, although the coven moved often to avoid the local law enforcement. The coven's new home was Moscow, Russia.

[SilntAngl5]

Sacha
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The pit smelled of blood. It always did, but the cold Moscow air made the smell especially pungent tonight. It bothered him little as he centered himself behind the botched, wooden door that would serve as his entrance into the arena. Someday, he thought, he might die in this place but it would not be until he was too old to lift a weapon to defend himself. Until that time, it was kill or be killed and Sacha had no want for death, only to bring death.

The crowd was throbbing tonight. He could hear their roars and shouts in languages he knew and did not recognize. He heard the wood creak above him and the angered and joyous thumping of feet as men, from the highest of the high to the lowest of the low, stood to cheer or jeer for those who partook.

The Blood Sport was not a game for mortals or weaklings. It was a way of living meant for servants like Sacha. Boys, and sometimes girls, who were born and bred specifically for sport and blood. For fight and death, given and earned. Tonight was his night to deal a hand of death. He was announced, as it was done in every arena, to shouts and cheers. Few of which mattered to him. All that mattered was that his blades tasted flesh and extinguished a life that sought to do the same of him.

The wooden door slid upward crudely, pulled on the pulleys of a lackey of the arena's dueling masters. The light always blinded him him for the briefest of moments, but his cold blue eyes stared it down until his vampiric senses kicked in. It never took long. Sacha wore a sleeveless, white shirt and pants. Though they were old, patched and dirty with the previous battle's spoils. A simple belt kept them about his slender, toned waist. A leather 'X' crossed his chest and leather thonged sheaths behind his back held two, long-hilted fighting knives.

A simple, white hood covered his smooth, boyish face and, when he stepped into the arena and removed it, a shock of equally white hair lay beneath. The natural whiteness of it caught the dingy lighting and, when he looked up between the locks that hung low enough to hide his dangerously blue eyes, it usually caused a twinge of fear-smell in his opponent. He had a reputation, after all. He was known for his unmercifulness to anyone.

This opponent was much larger than he, older and stronger in appearance. He was taller, muscular and bald with scores of tattoos of his winnings across his body. Sacha, standing before him, looked a mere boy. He was, but that never stopped him. An actual challenge, he thought, would make this night interesting. A man stood between them in the ring.

"Podhoda."

Sacha and his competition approached each other and stood. Sacha's feet were light in his boots and the way his small muscles shifted was powerful, calm.

"Gotovy."

The vampire in front of him brandished his fists and spread his stance. Hand-to-hand combat. No weapon. He must be fast. The extra man backed away quickly.

"Borʹba!"

The man scrambled for the tall fence that surrounded the small, dirty arena. His opponent leapt at him almost before he had a chance to move. He was fast! But Sacha dodged to the side and instead of going after his opponent, he leapt at the announcer. The man hadn't time to mount the ladder built into the fence before Sacha grabbed him by his balding hair and pulled him back. He sunk his fangs into the mans neck, tearing at his arteries. A curdling scream erupted from the chorus of laughter and jeers that exploded. The carcass was thrown to the ground so hard that the dead man's neck snapped. Sacha turned to face his opponent. Now he was ready to fight!

[Jenny]

Jasmine Torres

http://i287.photobucket.com/albums/ll145/sojournfan/jasmineunderworld.jpg

So far Jasmine didn't mind living in Moscow. She liked learning new languages and was starting to learn how to speak Russian. She was surprised though when Bruno told her that she was in charge of the coven tonight because he and Nathan were going to watch some fight.

Why can't I come?

I don't think you'd care for it.

To be honest Bruno didn't think he'd care for it much either. When he was a human he had been a professional boxer and had also wrestled some and competed in some bare knuckle fights before he got his big break but this type of fighting didn't appeal to him. He liked to win fights, not kill his opponents. The boss wanted to see it though and told him to come.

It's a lot more violent then the stuff we watch. It's like kill or be killed type of stuff.

He and Jasmine often watched wrestling and boxing together but he knew she wouldn't want to see this. Jasmine nodded her head when he told her how violent this fight he was seeing with Nathan would be. Bruno was right, she didn't want to see that.

Ah I see. I'll watch some old Wrestlemanias instead then.

Bruno thought that watching that sounded more appealing and told Jasmine bye as he left with Nathan.

[Corey]

Nathan Betancourt

http://i287.photobucket.com/albums/ll145/sojournfan/nathanonly.jpg

The type of fight Sacha was fighting in were the type of things that Nathan liked to watched. He didn't care much for the type of stuff Bruno and Jasmine watched because he wanted to see people get hurt, get killed. He didn't want to watch people just put on a good fight. He and Bruno didn't make their presence known in the audience. Nathan didn't care who won, just how violently the loser died. Still there was something about Sacha that interested him. He thought the boy looked familiar and he was trying to figure out why. Nathan never cared for children and never paid them much mind. They were useless in his opinion. Too small and weak to do anything useful in the world. Although watching the boy kill the announcer made him think perhaps there were a few children out there capable of cruelness like he was. He said quietly to Bruno.

We'll have to see how well that boy does.

Yeah...

Bruno was a little horrified to see Sacha just kill the announcer. He had a feeling Sacha would even crueler to his opponent.

[SilntAngl5]

Sacha
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When the fight ended, the ring was scored with blood. It slicked the floors and painted the high, wooden circle that surrounded the small arena. It stank as the cold, Moscow night grew on and the dank, sweat of the arena perfumed into its fullest. Sacha knelt with one knee to the ground. His white, sleeveless shirt was sprayed with blood, cut in places and there was blood sprayed across his cheek. They looked like crimson freckles.

His opponent had put up a good fight and he' quite enjoyed it. The larger competitor had come at him immediately after he disemboweled the neck of the petty announcer. Sacha brandished his fists and dodged the punches that whizzed by his ears. The force of one put a hole in the wall and surely would have crushed his skull. He was not match for the older opponent in strength, still being a boy, but he was faster and able to get in a few punches of his own, though they did little good.

So he drew his weapons. The SHKK of the twin blades being drawn rang int he air and made the crowd howl. There was an equivalent sound, but it was bloodied. The opponent had weapons after all, and they split the skin of his wrists and the blades thrust forward from his arms. Illegal modifications that would be illegal in any fight anywhere but here. On either side of Nathan and Bruno, Russian men leapt to their feat and thrust their hands at the ring, shouting snippets of intelligible things at best. In the darker corners of the seats, some men blatantly snorted powders and in yet another dark recess were the slights of hands and bodies in the intimate darkness. The room was livid. Here, such a thing meant more blood.

And they got blood. Both opponents used fang and weapon, bare hands and muscle to bloody each other. Sacha sought to slice every wretched tattoo from his opponents body. Piles of his enemy's flesh ribboned the floor like yards of saltwater taffy. He stabbed Sacha in the leg with the blade in his arm and pinned him to the floor. The other blade of his arm was held to Sacha's throat, intending to slice it open and spill his last breaths into the dirty night. But He met his end when Sacha thrust his blade into his head, cut it off and the flung it into the crowd. He pulled the heavier opponent off of him. The slice to his neck was already beginning to heal. Sacha then finished skinning his deceased opponent and used the bladed arms to nail the canvas of tattooed skin to the wall. Then he made his exist and went back into the dingy rooms to shower and feed so that he might heal.

[Corey]

Nathan Betancourt

http://i287.photobucket.com/albums/ll145/sojournfan/nathanonly.jpg

Nathan enjoyed Sacha's match very much. Some of the crowd would have thought Sacha would lose given that he was a boy and not as strong as his opponent but Sacha proved them wrong. Bruno had annoyed look on his face as the men around them got into the match. He had no idea what they were even cheering but seeing someone get killed wasn't his idea of a good time. Nathan ignored the crowd and just watched the boy. Impressed by what he saw as the boy skinned his opponent's tattoos off. When the fight was over, he motioned for Bruno to follow him. They pushed their way through the crowd to follow Sacha. Nathan clapped his hands as they approached Sacha.

Good fight kid.

[SilntAngl5]

Sacha
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Sacha was in the showers and had started the shower, though much could not be said for the state of the water either. The entire shower bay smelled of mold and mildew. He had already pulled his soiled white tunic over his head and hung it on a peg to be cleaned. Blood splattered his arms and face and pants. His skin was of clean ivory otherwise, riddled across his moon-kissed canvas of a torso with scars. It would be difficult to hear Nathan coming with all the noise from the crowd above, the stomping and cheering were muddled, but deafening even below the stands. It was always a danger to be ambushed after a fight.

When Nathan as close enough for Sacha to hear he glanced slightly over his shoulder and reached for his weapons, sheathed still in their 'X' formation, which hung upon a hook beside his tunic. He pulled one free and pointed it at Nathan as he entered the steaming shower area and clapped.

Sacha's eyes narrowed. Both men appeared to be unarmed, but Sacha knew better. If they intended him harm it was of no consequence. He would hold them off or kill them until his master got here. Then he would be given the pleasure of having them tortured for their attempts on his life, if there were any to be made. When he'd shifted into his stance, Nathan might see something worn around Sacha's left ankle. Masters had to control their slaves somehow. Many, like Sacha, were more powerful than their over-indulged masters.

"Mm" was Sacha's acknowledgement of Nathan's compliment. His eyes narrowed further, expressing their own silent desire to hear what Nathan had to say. The next fight was starting and the crowd grew quieter to hear the names of the next contestants. Down the tunnels that lead from the fighter's cells to the arena and to the shower area, all three males would hear the sound of hurried, fat feet approaching the shower area. Nathan would have a chance to have his say before the heavy-weight master arrived.

[Corey]

Nathan Betancourt

http://i287.photobucket.com/albums/ll145/sojournfan/nathanonly.jpg

Nathan chuckled when Sacha drew one of his swords and pointed it at him.

There's no need for that kid. I'm here to be your friend.

Bruno had to resist to the urge to rolls his eyes at that comment. He stood behind Nathan with his arms crossed against his wide chest. This place was by far the worst he had ever been in and he had fought in places that weren't very pleasant. Nathan saw that Sacha had something around his ankle, obviously his master felt a need to control him.

Your master likes to control you like dog doesn't he?

[SilntAngl5]

Sacha
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Sacha's dangerously blue eyes flicked from Nathan to Bruno behind him. However... charming Nathan appeared, Sacha didn't have friends. He didn't want friends. He held the sword out until the fat footsteps caught up to the entrance to the shower room.

As much as Sacha did not want to agree with Nathan, the fighters were treated like dogs. He was treated better than some because of his success in the ring, but the prize money never made it into his hands. Ever. Sacha's blue eyes stared hard at Nathan as Jurek's thick, sandaled feet entered the dank locker room.

"You can't be in here! Who let you in? This area is for fighters on-"

He came around, smartly out of reach of Sacha, but within view of Nathan and Bruno. It had been ten years since Nathan sold a white-haired toddler to Jurek, but Jurek remembered faces long after they'd forgotten him. Such memory skills proved useful to him. This was one of those times.

"Master Betancourt! Why it has been many many years, da? About... ten?"

Sacha glanced from Nathan to Master Jurek. He was smart. It was one of the things, skill aside, that kept him alive for so long. He was still holding out his weapon. Jurek was sly, but greedy. Sacha knew he had been the result of a prostitute's work and that he'd been sold as a toddler to Jurek. He never knew by whom, and Jurek's drawl on how long it had been since he'd seen Nathan hinted at knowledge that had to do with Sacha. Jurek motioned hastily with a plump hand.

"Put it down, boy."

Sacha hesitated just long enough to annoy Jurek. He had long lost his ability to fight as his weight increased. He was short, quite round about his midsection and sported more than one unhealthy looking boil upon his cheek. Just the jog from the arena's stands where the owners sat and had pretty girls fan them to here made him perspire. He was uncomfortable in the hot locker room and extremely impatient. Jurek touched something about his neck that appeared to be a jeweled necklace.

"I said, Polozhite yego, malʹchik!"

Sacha gritted his teeth and made a noise. His whole body stiffened and the white shock of hair on his head raised slightly. When the shockwave that passed through his body subsided, he returned his weapon stiffly to its sheath. Jurek smiled, all teeth and no lips, and motioned an apology to Nathan. He hated to be usurped in front of such a well-known client. Nathan's women and drugs were welcomed here and quite renowned. Sacha's blue eyes burned. he kept his hands apart form his sides, as if ready to grab a weapon or something that could be used as one again. his fingers moved at his side as if playing an invisible instrument of impatience and anger.

"What can I do for you dzhentlʹmen?"

[Corey]

Nathan Betancourt

http://i287.photobucket.com/albums/ll145/sojournfan/nathanonly.jpg

It only took Nathan a few moments to remember Jurek. He had dealt with so many people over the years, so he had a hard time remembering all their names at first. Still when he said how long it had been it made him realize why he thought Sacha looked familiar. He remembered the boy's mother now. Anger crossed his eyes briefly, Sacha's mother had been a stupid woman. She actually thought she could leave him because she decided to sober up and wanted a better life for her son. The boy had a been just a toddler and he sold him off without much thought. He honestly didn't except the child to survive pass a month. The anger quickly left his eyes as he gave Jurek a smile.

Yes it has been a long time Jurek.

Bruno's eyes narrowed at Jurek. He could tell he was clearly getting rich of Sacha but was terribly out of shape. He had seen a lot of promoters like that in his days and he always thought they were lazy pigs. Getting rich off of others. Both Bruno and Nathan were surprised to see how he controlled Sacha though and Nathan smirked to himself. Maybe he should get something like that to control his coven.

I was very surprised to see the boy fight. You must be profiting very well from our deal.

[SilntAngl5]

Sacha and Jurek
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In false humility, Jurek bowed at having Nathan remember his name. In their lucrative business it could go two ways, having one's name remembered. Jurek hoped it would prove to be as profitable as acquiring Sacha had been. At the mention of money, though, his money, Jurek wrung his hands.

"Naturally, Master Betancourt. Acquiring him at such a young age made him easy to train. He is one of the lucky ones, da?"

By lucky, Jurek meant one who actually survived as long as Sacha had.

"He is quite skilled with a weapon, as you have seen in the ring."

He looked at Sacha and made a face. There was still quite a bit of blood splattered onto his pants and legs. He barked a quick command to clean off the blood. Sacha's blue eyes looked from Jurek to Nathan and Bruno before going over to the running shower. It was burning hot and steam frothed from the unsanitary shower stall and blanketed the room in a thick heat. Jurek tugged at the collar of his jacket. Bands of sweat formed across his brow and threatened to drip into his eyes. Sacha, uncaring of the men in the locker, having changed in front of worse, stripped and stepped into the shower. His skin was pale, but not so white as his natural shock of white hair. Steam was modesty enough. Sacha showered quickly and efficiently while the men spoke.

"What brings you here, Master Betancourt? Surely if you sought an audience with me, there would be a cooler place for us to talk? We are not in our prime, either of us anymore... Well, perhaps you are, but my fighting days are over. This heat bothers me."

Sacha was quick. he'd learned to not linger in the dead-end locker room too long. People as popular as he had enemies who would love to remove him from competition. Jurek removed a kerchief from his breast pocket and dabbed at his brow.

"We are greatly enjoying the shipments we ordered from you. My clients are pleased with the results and increase in their own sales. Those are thanks to you."

Again, he procured a bow for Nathan. This one a bit more sincere than the first. Sacha finished showering and turned the water off. He grabbed a towel, shook it out and then toweled dry. Jurek did, at least, provide him with cleaner clothes than what he'd worn after a fight. A pair of pants and a sleeveless shirt with a hood were waiting for Sacha. Behind Jurek, but still in his line of sight as the Master always commanded, Sacha began to dress.

[Corey]

Nathan Betancourt

http://i287.photobucket.com/albums/ll145/sojournfan/nathanonly.jpg

That he is.

Nathan hadn't expected Sacha to still be alive after all these years and his mind was thinking that he had given Jurek too good of a deal for Sacha. The boy was worth far more then what Nathan had received for him. He could use him, skills like that were hard to come by. Sacha killed without mercy or guilt, Nathan rarely saw that. Bruno was a good fighter and was helping Jasmine become one as well but he knew they both felt guilty ending lives even if they tried to hide it well from him. Anger came across his face for another brief moment when Jurek dared to say he wasn't young man anymore. He was in far better shape and health at 75 years old then he was. Bruno snickered at the comment, Nathan was very vain about his looks. Nathan decided to not correct Jurek in violent matter for his comment and told him.

I just wanted to see a good show and I'm glad your clients are pleased. Although...

He made a quick hand motion and Bruno moved to block the entrance to the showers so no one could come in or out without going through him.

...After seeing the boy fight, I've decided I want him back. His mother belonged to me and so does he.

[SilntAngl5]

Sacha and Jurek
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Unlike Jurek, who had become a fool in his laziness and luxury, Sacha saw the anger flash across Nathan's face. He shifted slightly to his left, eyeing his weapons on the hook at the opposite side of the shower's entrance. His blue eyes flickered to Bruno as he laughed. Sacha shifted on the balls of his feet.

He could smell the fear explode from Jurek's pores as Bruno blocked the door.

"Want him back!?" Jurek's voice was higher than Sacha remembered. The older vampire immediately touched his throat, where the golden necklace was, as if reaching for a sense of stability of a situation that was rapidly spiraling out of control. Sacha saw his hand and crossed the small space of the shower's curtain to rip his swords from their sheaths. This was all bad. Very, very bad. He stood between Nathan and Jurek, holding his long fighting knives up, ready to attack Nathan, or Jurek if he pushed those damn buttons on his necklace. As Jurek voice shrilled, Sacha tried to process the information he's just gotten. Nathan owned his mother. Nathan was the one who sold him to Jurek.

"But, but you can't-"

Of course he could. Jurek panicked, feeling the comforts of the luxury he'd gained slipping quickly away from his grasp. His face changed from fear to anger.

"I won't allow it! The boy is mine and will do as I command him."

Sacha turned to look at Jurek. Was his mother alive? Why was he sold to this man?

"Boy, kill them!"

Sacha brandished his weapons and turned back to Nathan. He hesitated, for the first time since he'd begun his training, Sacha hesitated. Jurek shrieked in anger at his defiance and

"You are my slave! I feed you! I cloth you! Do as I tell you!"

Sacha looked at Nathan and Bruno. If he killed them, he would never know-

"I SAID NOW!"

Jurek's fingers slammed into the jeweled necklace on his massive chest. Sacha's nerves became alight with fire and lightning and ice. His back arched and his knees buckled. He crashed to the ground, onto the wet floor that only served to heighten his pain. Sacha's mouth opened in a gaping scream. Jurek continued to punch the buttons. Over and over and over. He would not let his prize get away from him. No he wouldn't!

Sacha curled in a fetal position on his arms and knees. His fingers spasmed and dropped his weapons loudly to the ground. Smoke emitted from the brace around his ankle. The full force of the wattage had never been used for such a duration before. the mechanics of the transmitter that caught the signals sent from Jurek's necklace were shorting out. Sacha felt the wattage decrease, but his body was on fire. He could barely move. His muscles were still contracted in agonizing pain. He looked up at Nathan from the floor spitting with effort as he shouted to him in their native tongue.

"Predlozhi mne chto-to luchshe!"

Offer me something better.

[Corey]

Nathan Betancourt

http://i287.photobucket.com/albums/ll145/sojournfan/nathanonly.jpg

Yes, I can.

Nathan smirked at Jurek's panic that he wanted Sacha back. He could tell Jurek didn't want to lose Sacha but he didn't care. Jurek should be grateful he had let him keep the boy this long and make a lot of money off of him. He had clearly gotten too used to the luxury. Bruno was quiet as he watched and Nathan's arrogance was coming out as Jurek tried to force Sacha to do what he wanted.

He doesn't seem to be listening to you now, does he?

He could tell Sacha was torn and saw that Jurek had shorted out the necklace. He bent down next to Sacha who was curled in a fetal form. He told him quietly in Russian.

<<Come with me and I'll never treat you worse then a dog. No more necklace, no more collar. You and your skills will be appreciated. You will be used to your full potential and not treated like an object. I'll even tell you what happened to your mother.>>

At least he'd tell Sacha a version of his mother's story. If he told him the whole truth, well he didn't think Sacha would like him that much.

[SilntAngl5]

Sacha and Jurek
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Sacha's body heaved as he tuned his head up to look at Nathan. His blue eyes were wide and angry. He pushed himself up on arms that shook. Jurek's shadow quickly loomed over them. Foolishly, he reached down and shoved Nathan away from Sacha and then grabbed the unsteady youth by his shirt.

<<I have given you everything you ungrateful little maggot! He sold you from your mother!>>

Sacha managed to knock Jurek's arm away and fell back to the floor. When he tried to rise, Jurek kicked him swiftly in the ribs. Sacha inhaled painfully and his side cracked with the effort. He coughed violently. Each muscle was on fire from being forcefully contracted and now the fire fornicated together with utter pain.

<<He sold you to me and he tells you what you want to hear now so that you will leave! I own you! Not him!>>

Sacha lifted himself up enough to spit his own blood on Jurek's boots. An insult in Russia, one all present would know well.

Jurek's eyes widened, seeing more red than the blood that was spit on his boots. He lifted his foot back, intending to deliver Sacha another swift, strong blow.

[Corey]

Nathan Betancourt

http://i287.photobucket.com/albums/ll145/sojournfan/nathanonly.jpg

Nathan growled when Jurek shoved him out of the way to get to Sacha. He had to catch himself from falling and was angry about it. Jurek was going to regret that. Bruno saw what happened and quickly rushed over and grabbed Jurek from behind before he could kick Sacha again. He was trying to put him into a choke hold.

Want me to snap his fat neck boss?

Bruno asked. Nathan almost said yes and then he looked over at Sacha.

<<This is your chance for freedom Sacha. You deserve to be more then a slave whose hard work makes him fatter. Finish him off.>>

[SilntAngl5]

]Sacha and Jurek
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Jurek struggled to free himself from Bruno, but he was long from the fighting arena, longer than Bruno had been. His bulk shifted, but he could not get his arms around Bruno to turn himself out of the choke hold. His face reddened, but he quieted when he heard Nathan's Russian.

<<He sold you to me, Sacha! He does not care for your freedom!>>

Slowly, Sacha stood and picked up both of his fighting knives. He glared at Jurek as blood dripped from his mouth. His side was on fire and he took quick shallow breaths. Breathing deeply hurt. Jurek began to squirm in panic.

<<Sacha! Sacha! I did not mean to kick you so hard. Why don't we make a deal? Get them to let me go and I will release you. You are no longer obligated to fight for me!>>

Sacha hunched his shoulders and stared at Jurek from behind the ends of his shock of white hair. Jurek slowly stopped blabbering. Sacha hated begging from a lost opponent. It ruined a fight and was a last act of cowardice. Jurek realized that mistake but only too late.

"Sacha! N-"

Sacha's dual blade pierced Jurek's thick chest. The large man's eyes bulged. Sacha yelled and pushed his swords in further, gritting through the pain in his ribs and muscles as they protested his movement. He breathed painfully and stared into Jurek's eyes as the light left them. Then he pulled his swords free and stepped back from Jurek so he could fall to the ground.

He stood there, staring at Jurek, breathing deeply. There was a commotion outside the locker room. Some of Jurek's men heard the shouting and were coming in concern. Sacha looked up at Bruno and then turned and looked at Nathan. For a moment he looked unsure. He was clearly in pain but said nothing of it. It was all in the way he breathed. The ribs would need to be set before his body could heal. Sacha then took a knee before Nathan and bowed. It was something demanded of all fighters before their masters. The ankle bracelet was exposed, charred. It had burned Sacha's skin and would need to be removed.

[Corey]

Nathan Betancourt

http://i287.photobucket.com/albums/ll145/sojournfan/nathanonly.jpg

Although Jurek tried to get free of Bruno's grip, it was a useless attempt. It have been a few years since Bruno's fighting days but he still kept himself in good shape unlike Jurek.

Don't you see it's too late for deals Jurek?

Nathan mocked when Jurek tried to make a deal with Sacha to save his own life. Bruno pushed Jurek towards Sacha so he could kill his former master. When it was done Nathan smiled that Sacha bowed before him. He was his new master now. Bruno heard the sounds of other men heading their direction.

Boss we're going to have company.

I hear that.

Nathan replied and said in Russian to Sacha.

<<Come Sacha. We'll get your wounds tended to and then we'll discuss your future.>>

Nathan didn't have an "official" doctor in the coven but Jasmine would be capable of taking care of his injuries. She had taken care of Bruno after he almost died from a knife attack.

[SilntAngl5]

Sacha
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Sacha nodded and walked to lead them out, but fell to his knees. A hand went to his ribs and he grunted, but pursed his lips tightly to keep from making any more noise. He closed his eyes for a moment, clearly straining, and then stood back up. He kept a hand on his ribs, which were now bruising heavily, and went to the doorway of the locker room. He listened, went back to grab his sheath, and then went back to the door. He held his weapons ready. Bruno, if Nathan didn't, would know they would have to fight Jurek's men to get out.

<<There are six of them. Jurek's men. The big one has a bad left knee and the tall one's blind on the right side->>

Sacha trained with these men, who were all considerably older than he. He knew their weaknesses. He knew they would kill him. A few tried before and failed. He could not get out much more of a warning than that before the first burst through the doorway. Sacha was flat against the wall and cut him down by wheeling and stabbing a knife through his midsection. He withdrew it with a yell and the man fell down, dead. This created a stumbling block for the others to have to get over before making a clear attack. Bruno, being a fighter, might see that Sacha already had put a plan in motion for their escape. The second man, the bigger one with the bad knee, lunged at Nathan with a nail-studded club raised. He was every part big and strong, sluggish to boot. The next one fanned out to join the big brut and the blind man came tumbling in with his right-eye side to Sacha. Sacha yelled and knelt. one knife blade went straight up his leg. When the man yelled and looked down to stab Sacha with his sword, he would find Sacha's already piercing into his one good eye. It went through into his skull. Another man dead.

But, coming back up from a kneeling position was not easy for Sacha with broken ribs. The extension of his arm upward sent waves of fire up his side. He did not get up in time for the third man, the twin of the eye patched fighter, now dead on the ground. He was give a swift punch to the face that sent him staggering back. It was followed up by a kick to his ribs. Stars and lights exploded in Sacha's blue eyes. He felt his body flying backward and his weapons leaving his hands. He crashed to the ground, skidded several feet and was still. Darkness claimed him before he hit the ground. The rest of the men, the two who'd already gone to attack Bruno and Nathan and the last two to get over their fallen friends, came in and rushed at them. Their was blood lust in their eyes.

[Corey]

Nathan Betancourt

http://i287.photobucket.com/albums/ll145/sojournfan/nathanonly.jpg

Nathan and Bruno were expecting a fight. Nathan had Sacha kill Jurek, these men were surely going to get revenge for that. Bruno could see that Sacha had a plan but his first priority was to protect Nathan. Although Nathan wasn't a wimp. Many thought he was a pretty boy but he could defend himself. Nathan just didn't like getting his clothes dirty, especially ones that cost more then probably those men's lives. Plus why should he fight when he had people willing to fight for him? When the big man with the bad knee came after Nathan, Nathan quickly moved out of the way of his club while Bruno hit the man next to him. That men fell into the big brute which caused him to drop the nail-studded club. Nathan picked it up and quickly bashed his head in with the club ending it quickly although he hit him a couple of times as an overkill to make sure he died. This caused the man who was hit to come after Nathan when he regained his senses but Bruno quickly grabbed him and ripped his head off. Both Nathan and Bruno saw that Sacha had passed out but there were still two more men to kill before they could get to the boy. Bruno grabbed a sword that had been dropped in the fight. When the last two men came at them Nathan killed one using the nail-stubbed club while Bruno killed the other with the sword. The fight had left both vampires hungry and there was plenty of blood around now. After getting a fill, Nathan told Bruno to carry Sacha while he grabbed Sacha's weapons. They headed back to the coven where Bruno laid Sacha down on a free bed. Nathan found Jasmine and told her.

We got a new member although he took a beating. Tend to his wounds.

[Jenny]

Jasmine Torres

http://i287.photobucket.com/albums/ll145/sojournfan/jasmineunderworld.jpg

Jasmine hadn't expected anyone to return to the coven yet. The girls were still out selling and she figured Bruno and Nathan would spend the night watching those violent fights Bruno didn't think she'd like. Her eyes got wide when she saw Nathan and Bruno return with Bruno carrying Sacha. They were all covered in blood and she was shocked to see the age of Sacha. He was just a kid and Nathan didn't like kids. She turned off the television and nodded her head to Nathan.

That's fine but...

She trailed off because she knew he didn't being questioned.

[Corey]

Nathan Betancourt

http://i287.photobucket.com/albums/ll145/sojournfan/nathanonly.jpg

But what?

Nathan demanded from Jasmine as he pulled off his blood covered shirt. A perfectly good and expensive shirt was now ruined. Well he'd just have to keep more money from the girls this week to replace it.

He's a kid. I...we both thought you said there would never be any kids in the coven.

Bruno said quickly. He was just as curious as Jasmine was about why Nathan had wanted to take Sacha from Jurek. Nathan looked around and saw that other then the unconscious Sacha they were alone. Still to make sure no one understood them he started to talk in Japanese. He, Bruno, and Jasmine had picked it up during their time in Japan. That's where he had learned what happened to Marisol. Although the local authorities were on to his coven so he hadn't been able to go after her little daughter then. Revenge would have to wait for now.

<<He is an exception to my law.>>

<<I figured from the way he fought but...>>

<<You want to know about his mother?>>

Nathan asked and Bruno nodded his head.

<<His mother was a part of my rebellion. She was loyal until she decided that this type of life wasn't good enough for her or her precious Sacha anymore. Stupid b*tch tried to leave me, to defy me in front of the others. She had to made an example of.>>

Nathan said with anger in his voice as he told them about Sophia. He told them quite coldly how he killed Sacha's mother in front his old coven and in front of Sacha.

<<The boy was a toddler and wouldn't remember any of it. I sold him to Jurek so at least I could get some money out of the whole ordeal. He was too old to sell to any childless couple, you know they want newborns. After Sophia I decided that I wouldn't have another repeat of that. Thus why I sell the babies off at birth. Their mothers won't get attached to them and try to make the same idiotic mistake she did. Although if I had known the boy was such a ruthless fighter, I would have taken him back sooner. Make sure he recovers from his injuries Jasmine or he'll be useless to me and my nice clothes would have been ruined for nothing.>>

He was starting to walk away when he turned back to Bruno and Jasmine.

<<The boy is to never know the whole story. If he asks about his mother, he is to believe she didn't want him. Is that understood?>>

<<Yes Boss.>>

Bruno said nodding his head and after getting Jasmine's confirmation Nathan left Jasmine with her orders to tend to Sacha's wounds so he could go change his clothes and go find one of his girls to celebrate his new find with.

[Jenny]

Jasmine Torres

http://i287.photobucket.com/albums/ll145/sojournfan/jasmineunderworld.jpg

Jasmine wasn't surprised to learn that Sophia had wanted to leave with her son. This type of life was not one for a child and nor was it the type of life many would ask for. It made sense though why Nathan took the babies away when the girls gave birth. He learned from his mistakes and he wouldn't have another mother try to defy him like that. She nodded her head to Nathan.

<<I'll make sure he recovers fine and I won't tell him about his mother.>>

After Nathan left she asked Bruno what had happened at the fight club as she gently looked over Sacha's body. Bruno told her how violently Sacha had killed his opponents which surprised her since he was just a child and about Jurek and his men. She sighed as she told Bruno.

We're going to have to re-break his ribs so they'll set and heal properly. And that has to go as well.

She said pointing to the charred ankle bracelet that had burned Sacha's skin.

I'll help you.

[Corey]

Four Years Ago: Rome Italy

Nathan Betancourt

http://i287.photobucket.com/albums/ll145/sojournfan/nathanonly.jpg

Nathan was determined that Sacha would never know the truth about his mother and whenever he felt the need to talk about the boy to Jasmine and Bruno he would talk about him in Japanese. Jasmine, with Bruno's help, nursed Sacha back to health. Once the boy was healed Nathan tested him. He wanted to see if a child that was barely 10 years old would be as ruthless of killer outside the fighting ring as he was when Nathan saw him fight. Sacha didn't disappoint. Nathan had Sacha kill an toddler girl innocent before him. When Sacha completed the task, he asked him to kill a random member of each gender and age group to see if he had any weakness for any. Sacha had none. Young, old. Male, female. None of it mattered to Sacha and Nathan made him his assassin, having him eliminate any competition or threats to his coven. Rome, Italy was the coven's new home. Being new to a city didn't bother Nathan, he quickly made his name known. Well Micha's name anyway. He used Jasmine's ex's name to prevent his old enemies from discovering that he was alive, well, and making lots of money. There was a local gang in town that seemed to run the drug market though. It was ran by a man named Riccardo Esposito. According to the girls who tried to sell Nathan's drugs, customers claimed Esposito had the best, purest drugs in town. Well drugs like that Nathan wanted for himself. He wanted Riccardo and his people dead but he wanted to know why his drug was so much better then the ones Nathan had been selling for the last few years. So that's why he, Bruno, and Jasmine were coming with Sacha on this mission. Sacha was to kill Riccardo and his men while Nathan, Bruno, and Jasmine found out how Riccardo was making better drugs them his.

[Jenny]

Jasmine Torres

http://i287.photobucket.com/albums/ll145/sojournfan/jasmineunderworld.jpg

Jasmine knew all of Esposito's gang was going to die at Sacha's hand but she was still a little bothered by it. After all these years of being a vampire she still wasn't comfortable with taking lives. If someone tried to hurt her, like Micha, then she could do it but these people...They had done nothing to her except get in the way of Nathan's business. That was the only reason they were going to die tonight. Sacha was a child but he showed no mercy or remorse any time he killed and that's why he was a much better choice to be Nathan's assassin then she was. She and Bruno were looking for the drugs when she smelled smoke coming from a back room of the house they had invaded.

You smell that?

Bruno nodded his head and replied.

Yeah and Sacha hasn't started the fire yet.

Nathan always ordered Sacha to make sure he destroyed any evidence when he was out on one of his missions. They headed to the back room where they saw a makeshift lab and a young woman with long black hair trying to burn all the drugs the gang had.

<<Stop what you're doing!>>

Jasmine yelled at her in Italian. Once she learned they were heading for Italy, Jasmine had taken the time to learn it with Bruno. She liked being able to speak the native language where ever she lived. The woman jumped back in fear and held her hands up.

<<Please don't kill me. Ricky told me to burn it all so you guys couldn't have it.>>

<<Our boss will probably kill you since he wanted that stuff.>>

<<I could make him more! Lots more!>>

The girl replied in fear as she backed up against the wall wishing she could disappear. Jasmine looked at her curiously.

<<Do you make the drugs?>>

The girl nodded her head quickly.

<<All of them.>>

Jasmine and Bruno exchanged a look and Bruno said he was going to get Nathan while Jasmine was going to make sure the girl didn't try to run away.

[Corey]

Nathan Betancourt

http://i287.photobucket.com/albums/ll145/sojournfan/nathanonly.jpg

It didn't take Bruno long to find Nathan and he was very pleased to hear that this girl he and Jasmine had found claimed to make all the drugs. If she was willing to join his coven then it would benefit his business greatly. He had to divide his girls' time between making the drugs and the selling on the streets. He could use this girl for the sole purpose of making drugs. If she wasn't willing to join him well she'd be dead. Usually given those options he got what he wanted. The girl looked in fear at him when he approached her.

<<I hear you make Esposito's drugs.>>

He said in Italian. Like Jasmine he preferred to know the native language of what ever country he was going to do business at. The girl nodded her head.

<<I do and like I told them, I can make you as much as you want.>>

<<I'm pleased to hear that. What's your name?>>

<<Elena Sammartino.>>

<<I'm Nathan Betancourt Elena and the way I look at it, you have two options. You join us and work for me making these great drugs your fellow countrymen love so much or you die with the rest of the gang.>>

It wasn't like Elena had much a choice. She didn't want to die and she quickly agreed to work for Nathan. She gasped though when she saw his fangs sticking out as he grinned.

<<What are->>

<<Giving you immortal life so you can work for me forever.>>

Nathan replied and sank his fangs into her neck to turn her into a vampire. After he was done he looked at Bruno and Jasmine.

Let's leave Sacha to take care the rest of this.

He had wanted to know how Riccardo Esposito was able to create better drugs then what he was selling and now he knew. He had the girl who made them and he wasn't going to let her ever leave his coven. Elena quietly followed Nathan, Jasmine, and Bruno as they left Sacha to kill the rest of Esposito's gang. There was no love loss for most of them since they had pretty much kept her a prisoner because of her chemistry knowledge but when she saw her brother Eddie's body among Sacha's victims, she had to cover her mouth to keep from crying out. It had been her brother's fault she had ever been involved in the gang but deep down she did still love him.

[SilntAngl5]

Sacha
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Sacha was eleven when he was taken to Italy. He did not care for the place. It was too hot and loud. The people here were invasive and nosey and noisy. He did not know any other languages than Russia and some English and had no desire to learn another language. He was, decidedly in a foul mood.

And his ribs were hurting today. When he'd awoken, it was to a new life, though none less cruel than the one before it. He'd killed for Nathan. Over and over he'd needlessly taken lives of women, children, elderly, mentally disabled. Anything and everything fell under his knife. Fighting in the ring was... different. There was purpose to it. Kill or be killed. This was just senseless killing. But Sacha was intelligent, even at such a young age. He knew that if he was useless to Nathan, he would kill him.

So when he was brought to the Esposito compound, he immediately did what he came to do: kill. He brandished his knives and swept like the white death through the compound. The wounds he delivered were clean, efficient and effective. Kill marks, each.

He stopped when he smelled fire.

<<That's my job!>> he hollered and raced in the direction of the smell.

When he came through the doorway, out of breath, he stopped in the door frame. There was a woman. The air smelled of burnt drugs. Sacha coughed and walked away from the door a moment to clear his nostrils. When he came back, they were still speaking in Italian and Nathan had just sunk his fangs into Elena's neck. He was hungry and licked his lips. Then, quietly, Sacha ducked back into the shadows. There was one person he hadn't killed.

Riccardo's screams echoed through the open doors of all the rooms Sacha had invaded. His blood curdling cries for mercy as Sacha fed from him, after dismembering his limbs, would raise the hairs on everyone's neck. If there was anyone alive. The blood he drank was sweet, like the bottom of a cup of juice. All the sugar pooled into the last sweet contents and, as Riccardo bled out from severed arteries in his amputated arms and legs, Sacha's eyes rolled into his head at the succulent taste. When he released Riccardo's neck and wiped a smear of his dinner across his mouth, the dealer was dead.

Sacha had no idea the girl Nathan bit was still alive. He had no idea her brother was among the casualties of his blades. When Nathan exited the building, Sacha was waiting outside. Smoke poured like black wormholes to hell from the windows of the upper stories. He was splattered in blood. He breathed deeply, quickly. His pupils were wide as the taste of Riccardo's blood swept through him. He hadn't been fed before this, not in a long time. Their trip here made him more anti-social than usual and he hadn't had anything to eat. he'd never fed off of his victims before, but watching Nathan feed had awakened a hunger in him that he had not felt since Jurek had starved him as a punishment for failing a beginner's match. He was six when the maddening cravings hit him and he never wanted to feel that out-of-control again. He needed to be in control of his body at all times.

But something wasn't right here. He felt funny. The world around him didn't move right and, as he fell into line behind Nathan, Jasmine, Bruno and the new girl, he lagged a bit and shook his head to clear it.

"Natan."

Sacha accented voice sounded off. He leaned sideways and toppled to his knees. Colors blended and swirled until his eyes could not tell shape from light from sound. Riccardo was a fool and occasionally loved to test out the drugs Elena made for him. Sacha lost his balance and completely fell to the ground. His blue eyes were wide and frightened.

[Jenny]

Jasmine Torres

http://i287.photobucket.com/albums/ll145/sojournfan/jasmineunderworld.jpg

As soon as Jasmine heard Sacha's voice, she knew something was wrong. She rushed to his side when he fell and looked at his eyes. Bruno was right behind her. He couldn't explain it but he felt a bond with the boy.

What's wrong with him?

It looks like he is having a bad reaction to some drugs.

Jasmine replied, she had seen this reaction from some of Nathan's girls who liked to try the drugs, not just sell them.

Sacha doesn't do drugs.

Bruno replied, he knew Sacha liked to keep a clear mind while doing his work.

I know that but he must have fed on someone who does.

Jasmine said as she pointed out the blood on his fangs. Elena had been listening quietly to the whole thing and said in English.

It could been Ricky....He liked to keep some of the drugs I make for himself.

Elena had learned English from school, she had thought someday she'd be a famous scientist and dreamed to someday go to the States to study chemistry. She just hadn't had the money so she stayed in Italy. She knew enough English to understand what was being said in conversations and be able to offer her own thoughts. Jasmine nodded her head and agreed that if Riccardo had had the drugs in his system when Sacha fed on him they would have been transferred.

Once they are out of his system he'll be okay, we'll just need to keep an eye on him while it happens.

She had no way of knowing how many drugs Riccardo had had in his system before Sacha got to him. Sacha could be in for a bad experience.

[Corey]

Nathan Betancourt

http://i287.photobucket.com/albums/ll145/sojournfan/nathanonly.jpg

It'll be a good lesson for him. You are what you eat.

Nathan said when they realized that Sacha's body was reacting to drugs that had been in Riccardo's blood when he fed on him. He figured the boy would be strong enough to survive and if he didn't, oh well. Sacha had proven to valuable member to his coven but if he couldn't watch what he ate, then he deserved what he was getting. He looked at Bruno.

Watch over him while his body gets that out of his system. Jasmine, you help Elena get adjusted to the coven.

Normally he'd just have Jasmine watch Sacha but she was the only female he trusted to show the new girls around the coven. Some girls could be getting displeased with him (and would eventually die for that) and try to put the wrong kind of ideas in a new girl's mind. Jasmine would make sure Elena knew his rules and what was expected of her. Jasmine wouldn't even think of betraying him. Bruno nodded his head and reached down to help Sacha get on his feet.

Let's get you home.

[SilntAngl5]

Sacha
http://lh5.ggpht.com/_BirvUCzeN8s/St2HII5voTI/AAAAAAAAB5A/jHJcELtkY3o/unknown_037.png

Sacha looked up as Jasmine as she knelt over him. He blinked his eyes rapidly. His pupils were dilated and his breathing was deep and fast. He raised a hand as if to push her away, but only managed an unbalanced wave. He lifted his head off the pavement and stared up at her. The light of the street lamps shifted from being too bright to too dim. Then the world around him grew walls, like that of the room he was brought to when Nathan first brought him out of Jurek's possession. And the words they spoke were jumbled in his mind. It sounded foreign.

Sacha held a hand to his head as Bruno helped him to his feet. His skin was blotchy and pale and he stumbled before catching his footing. He leaned hard against Bruno and muttered things that were not quite Russian and not quite English. He staggered and ended up clutching onto Bruno for support. He could not make it back to the car without stumbling and falling. He tried his best, having the sense to know that Nathan would kill him if he were found weak. Sacha began to look at Nathan with paranoia. His still young hands clutched onto bruno and he leaned against the bigger man, almost as if trying to push him away from Nathan.


<<He's going to kill us.... he's going to kill us all!>> Sacha whispered hoarsely in what would be the only cohesive sentence Bruno would hear him say. Sacha's breathing picked up in panic. His eyes moved around rapidly in anxiety and helplessness. he seemed to have forgotten the twin swords at his back.

For now.

[Corey]

Nathan Betancourt

http://i287.photobucket.com/albums/ll145/sojournfan/nathanonly.jpg

Bruno let Sacha lean on him as much as he needed as they headed back to the car. Bruno had no idea half the things Sacha was saying and he was certain Sacha didn't know what he was saying either. He was trying to open the car door when Sacha seemed like he was trying to push him away from Nathan. Anyone who understood Russian could hear Sacha's whisper.

Sacha he's not-

Bruno was trying to calm Sacha down while Nathan glared as he opened the driver's side door.

He's lucky he's high or I'd cut out his tongue for saying that.

Elena couldn't understand Russian but from the look on Nathan's face she could tell he didn't like whatever Sacha had said. She had her arms wrapped around herself in fear and Nathan ordered her to sit in the front passenger's seat. He wasn't going to have Sacha in his paranoia hurt his knew find. Bruno tried to get Sacha into the backseat of the car. He was planning to sit in between Sacha and Jasmine.

[Jenny]

Jasmine Torres

http://i287.photobucket.com/albums/ll145/sojournfan/jasmineunderworld.jpg

Jasmine's mouth dropped open at the only cohesive sentence Sacha had said. Riccardo must have been really high on Elena's drugs when Sacha found him, she knew he would never dare say that about Nathan if he was clear headed. She squeezed Elena's shoulder. She could tell the girl was scared and she felt this need to try and reassure her it would be okay. Although she knew very well that Elena's life would never be the same again.

It's okay. Just do what he says and he won't hurt you.

Jasmine whispered to Elena. She almost said Nathan didn't bite but everyone knew that wasn't true. Elena nodded her head and got into the front seat of the car while Jasmine got into the backseat with Bruno sitting between her and Sacha.

[SilntAngl5]

Sacha
http://lh5.ggpht.com/_BirvUCzeN8s/St2HII5voTI/AAAAAAAAB5A/jHJcELtkY3o/unknown_037.png

Being wedged between Jasmine and Bruno was the only thing that kept Sacha from bolting out of the car. He wanted to be as far away from Nathan as possible and pushed himself far, far back into the seat with his knees up to his chin. Everything in the car shifted from being in and out of focus. Nathan's threats did not help. Sacha bowed his head to his knees and rocked slowly, back and forth. He muttered inaudibly and occasionally took his arms from around his legs and clapped them to his ears. He would get louder then, as if covering his ears wasn't enough. He had to drown out the things he was hearing. When the noises stopped, Sacha would look up and then, horrified at what he saw and then quickly hid his eyes again. He would start rocking again

<<It's not real. It's not realIt'snotrealIt'snotreal.>>

He moaned and clutched his head. He kept his eyes buried and rocked again.

<<It's not real. It's not real!!!!>>

Sacha grew increasingly more agitated. In the distance, sirens wailed, coming closer to the black smoke pouring from the firey building.

[Corey]

Nathan Betancourt

http://i287.photobucket.com/albums/ll145/sojournfan/nathanonly.jpg

Bruno didn't know what to do to calm Sacha down but he tried as best he could because Sacha's behavior was annoying Nathan. Nathan was hitting potholes on purpose to just upset Sacha more. He'd teach the boy not to just go around feeding off any low life he saw. Nathan heard the sirens and sped down the streets of Rome to get back to the factory the coven had made their home. Once they reached it, he slammed on the brakes and turned to look at Bruno.

You better make sure he gets over this soon or-

I know.

Bruno replied. It would go without saying that if Sacha wasn't strong enough to recover from this, he wouldn't be around much longer. Hopefully Sacha would recover soon and learn from his mistake and not repeat it. Nathan only gave people on chance. Nathan's eyes narrowed when Bruno cut him off.

Make sure he knows what will happen if he makes this mistake again. He's no good to me in this condition.

He said and got out of the car and slammed the door behind him. He was hungry but at least he knew the blood he kept on hand was clean. Bruno opened the door and grabbed Sacha's arm to pull him out of the car.

<<Come on Sacha.>>

[Jenny]

Jasmine Torres

http://i287.photobucket.com/albums/ll145/sojournfan/jasmineunderworld.jpg

It had been one of the worst car rides Jasmine had ever been in. Sacha was freaking out and Nathan's driving wasn't helping him. She didn't say anything but she knew Nathan was doing it on purpose. Sacha did anything that was asked of him but he screwed up one time and Nathan didn't care if he needed help. Most members of the coven saw Sacha as a heartless little boy, but Jasmine thought there was a part of him that wasn't like that. A part of him he hid, a part that deserved compassion. She knew Bruno saw that as well, although neither spoke of it to Sacha. Sacha didn't want anyone to think he was weak. She got out of the car and asked Bruno.

Do you want help with him?

I think I can handle him. Besides the boss said you need to show Elena around.

Oh yeah...

Jasmine replied quietly, she almost forgot about Elena. She opened the front passenger's door for Elena.

Come, I'll give you a tour.

Elena had been quite scared during the car ride and wondered if she should have just let them kill her along with the rest of the gang. She nodded her head and followed Jasmine into the factory.

Is Nathan...Is he always like that?

When he's angry.

Jasmine told her, she wasn't going to sugarcoat it. Nathan could be very cruel and she figured the new girls should know that.

As long you do what he orders you to do, you won't get on his bad side.

Elena nodded her head in understanding but wondered how well she'd actually be able to do that. Nathan seemed to have a short fuse she thought as Jasmine started to show her around the coven's home. From the outside it looked rundown but clearly Nathan liked to spend money because the inside was very luxurious.

[Jenny]

Jasmine Torres

http://i287.photobucket.com/albums/ll145/sojournfan/jasmineunderworld.jpg

While Bruno helped Sacha get to his room so he could have privacy as his body dealt with the drugs in his system, Jasmine took Elena first to get some blood. She handed her a blood packet. Elena had never been found of blood when she was a human and looked at the blood packet like she was going to get sick. Jasmine chuckled.

You'd better get used to it. You're a vampire now.

Elena knew Jasmine was right and she closed her eyes as she sank her fangs into the packet. She couldn't begin to understand how different her life would be now. Jasmine told her there was plenty of blood if she ever was hungry or felt a blood lust. One thing about Nathan, he made sure newborns were taken care of. He didn't want them going into a blood lust and killing lots of humans. Not that he cared much about humans, Jasmine knew he didn't. It was just a lot of murders would up a law enforcement presence in the cities they lived in and that would effect business. Jasmine should her around the coven's home and told her where Nathan's private rooms were. She should not go in those unless Nathan wanted her to. For now Elena would have to share a room until Nathan thought she deserved her own.

...You speak English very well. That's good because Nathan normally speaks in that language.

Unless he was talking to or about Sacha. Then he talked in other languages.

I had wanted to go to America to study chemistry. The University of California has one of the best chemistry programs in the world. I thought it would be easier for me if I learned English before I went.

Jasmine nodded her head in understanding.

It's good to know a country's native language if you're going to live there. So what happened? Why didn't you go?

My family is poor and I could not afford the costs of traveling. Eddie, my brother, thought he'd get the money though.

By working for Esposito?

Elena sadly nodded her head.

Ricky claimed he would pay well but...Eddie got in over his head and owed Ricky money. He couldn't pay and...At first Ricky was going to make me his puttana but then Eddie told him I knew all about chemistry. So Ricky made me make his drugs instead.

At least she made good drugs because Ricky and the rest of the gang never touched her. She was too valuable to them.

Was Eddie there when Sacha....

Sì.

I'm sorry.

Jasmine told her and she did mean that. She could tell Elena had loved her brother even if he got her involved with Esposito. He was just trying to give her a better life. She warned Elena not to get too attached to too many of the coven members, most didn't ask long. She showed her where the drug lab was when Elena asked about Sacha. It still surprised her that one so young was capable of such violence. Jasmine didn't go into too much detail but did tell her that before Sacha joined the coven he had been a part of a violent fighting ring most of his life. When Elena heard that, she thought it would be best to avoid him as much as possible.

[SilntAngl5]

Sacha
http://lh5.ggpht.com/_BirvUCzeN8s/St2HII5voTI/AAAAAAAAB5A/jHJcELtkY3o/unknown_037.png


Every pothole caused Sacha to gasp or whimper and curl tighter in upon himself. When Nathan hit a particularly bad pothole, Sacha's arms would fly out and grab Bruno, sometimes Jasmine to steady himself. When the car finally stopped, Sacha peeked out from under his shock of white hair that hung in front of his eyes. His blue eyes darted back and forth and came to rest on Nathan. They flicked back and forth between the two men as they talked.

<<He's going to kill me.>> Sacha uttered in a quiet, fear-filled Russian tone. he backed into Bruno, pushing him into the door as Nathan left.

<<Jurek poisoned the blood. He killed us. If we failed we were killed. We were killed.>>

Sacha was too busy muttering to feel Bruno get up and nearly fell out of the car. He stumbled along as Bruno got him inside. He shielded his eyes as he walked, as if afraid to see what the drugs commanded him to see. He continued to mutter and cling to Bruno as he was brought inside.

<<He poisoned us... We would all die eventually... All of us. Why didn't I die too? Why am I too good to die? Nathan will kill me.... He will kill me now.>>

[Corey]

Bruno Sinclair

http://i287.photobucket.com/albums/ll145/sojournfan/brunounderworld.jpg

Bruno had never seen Sacha in a state like this and tried as best he could to calm Sacha down. He knew it wasn't doing any good, Sacha was in his own world right now. He let the boy cling to him as they walked into Sacha's room.

<<Nathan won't kill you. You didn't fail him.>>

Bruno told him as he tried to get Sacha to lie down on his bed. Maybe he could get some sedative for him, that could help him sleep. If the boy slept then his body could get the drugs out of his system without him freaking out. Although he would have to talk to Elena to find out which drugs Riccardo took. He didn't want to make things worse by giving Sacha a sedative that would interact badly with the other drugs.

<<Esposito and his gang are dead and that's what the boss wanted. Plus he got Esposito's drug maker, he'll consider tonight a win.>>

[SilntAngl5]

Sacha
http://lh5.ggpht.com/_BirvUCzeN8s/St2HII5voTI/AAAAAAAAB5A/jHJcELtkY3o/unknown_037.png

His room. He was safe. Surely he was safe!

Sacha kicked the door closed and left Bruno. He ran over to his thin bed, pushed against the wall, and went to the farthest corner it would afford him. He curled up there and held his knees to his chest just as he had in the car.

"He will kill because that is what he does."

Sacha shook uncontrollably. His wide eyes, almost black instead of blue because his pupils were so far dilated, stared in horror around the room. He jumped at sounds that only he could hear.

<<I won't let him kill me! I won't!>>

Sacha punched at Bruno as he tried to get him to lay down. He backed into the wall again, like an animal. Every time Bruno would come near him, Sacha would swing at him and then cover his ears. His screams could be heard all the way down the hall. It would take several people to restrain him and sedate him. Many of the people would be injured. Sacha fought tooth and nail to keep from being sedated. When he finally was, he was curled up on his bed. Like in his time with Jurek, a chain cuffed his ankle to the bed post, which was also nailed unceremoniously to the floor. The chain was long enough to let him a foot away from his bed, but no more. It did not matter, and would not until the sedative wore off. Sacha was curled into a tight ball and laid on his side. Bruno would hear the sounds of him weeping through his coiled wound arms and legs. His words, marred by drugs and sedatives both, were unintelligible.


<<I... don't want... to... this... am... where will I...?>>

He looked weakly up at Bruno and moved his leg. He heard the chain there and he moaned, curling back up in defeat.

<<Just kill... me, Bruno.>>

Sacha closed his eyes and drifted off into a gifted darkness and release from his agony.

[Corey]

Bruno Sinclair

http://i287.photobucket.com/albums/ll145/sojournfan/brunounderworld.jpg

Bruno tried his best to keep Sacha under control but it was hard. The boy was scared and attacking like a scared animal. They were getting an audience now because of Sacha's yells. Bruno growled at the girls.

Don't just stand there, help me control him.

One of the girls ran off to find a chain while another found Elena for Bruno. Elena looked at Sacha in fear as Bruno demanded to know what Riccardo had taken before they arrived. Elena was scared so it took her a couple minutes to think of the drugs. Although she quickly knew what they could safely give Sacha for a sedative once she remembered what Ricky took. She ran off to the lab to bring a needle full of the sedative while another girl brought the chain. It was a group effort to restrain Sacha. A couple of the girls got injured and Sacha had even broken Bruno's nose in the process. Bruno didn't care though and shoved the needle into Sacha's neck so the sedative would quickly go into his bloodstream. He ordered the girls out the room. Nathan would be happy that Sacha was under control now, Bruno thought as he sat down on the floor and touched his broken nose. He couldn't understand much what Sacha was saying as the sedative went into effect but he did hear Sacha asked him to kill him.

<<No. I can't do that to you.>>

He replied although he wasn't sure if Sacha had actually heard his response before he passed out.

[Jenny]

Jasmine Torres

http://i287.photobucket.com/albums/ll145/sojournfan/jasmineunderworld.jpg

After Sacha was sedated and sleeping, Jasmine was sitting next to Bruno as she treated his broken nose.

I thought you said you could handle him.

I did, he just has a mean right hook.

Bruno replied although he knew Jasmine didn't believe him very much. Both had been shocked at the reaction Sacha had had to the drugs. Hopefully he would learn from his mistake, if not then...Well he wouldn't be around much longer. Nathan didn't anyone too many chances to make mistakes.

Besides it ain't like my nose has never been broken before.

Bruno said with a shrug. Broken bones had been a given as a boxer.

True but at least it'll heal fast.

She finished treating his nose and headed out to throw away her trash when she saw Elena already hard at work making drugs for Nathan.

[Corey]

Nathan Betancourt

http://i287.photobucket.com/albums/ll145/sojournfan/nathanonly.jpg

It was good that Bruno was able to sedate Sacha, the boy's yelling was getting on Nathan's nerves. He had been tempted to end his life just to have peace and quiet. Although he would surely regret that, Sacha was one of his best finds. He decided he would give him a second chance, although if the boy ever made the mistake to feed on someone who was high again, he would not live long enough to regret it. As soon as Sacha had been sedated, Nathan put Elena to work making the drugs. She was a fast worker and before long the girls were reporting that the clients liked these better then the other drugs they were making before. Nathan walked up behind her and told her as he pushed her long black hair off her neck.

I'm glad I decided to let you live. I'm already making a great deal of money from your talents and I like making money.

...I'm glad...

Elena said, she was very uncomfortable having Nathan that close to her. Her shoulders were hunched up and she wanted to disappear through the floor. Nathan didn't care though and kissed her neck.

I think you should show me how "grateful" you are that I didn't kill you with Esposito.

....I......

It wasn't really a request but more of an order. Nathan was the king of his own little world and every single one of these girls belonged to him. He had turned them all and if he wanted to sleep with one of them, they should be happy he picked them to share his bed. Elena didn't want to though. The only man she had been with Riccardo because he forced her when Eddie wasn't around. No one had touched her when her brother was with her but he couldn't protect her all the time. Not that she ever told Eddie, he would have gotten himself killed confronting Ricky about it. She didn't think being intimate with someone was fun and Nathan was just as a selfish of a lover as Riccardo had been, so she wouldn't enjoy it. Nathan didn't care what Elena wanted though and had a grip on her arm as he forced her to walk to his bedroom.

I...ummm...I need to keep an eye on the drugs.

They'll be fine.

Nathan growled at her.

[Jenny]

Jasmine Torres

http://i287.photobucket.com/albums/ll145/sojournfan/jasmineunderworld.jpg

Elena was trying to come up with excuses why she couldn't sleep with Nathan when Jasmine saw what was going on. She had seen scenes like this before with some of the girls. Usually she minded her own business but for some reason she felt protective of Elena. She wasn't like the other girls. She hadn't screwed up her life to end up with Nathan. Elena was a smart girl who had had a future before life screwed things up for her. She walked over to Nathan and Elena and removed his hand from Elena's arm and wrapped her arms around him. Pressing her body against his. She had been with Nathan long enough to know what he liked. Although they didn't sleep together often, he had plenty of women to chose from.

Nathan I was looking for you. It's been a while since we've had some "fun"...

She kissed him and whispered against his ear.

And you know I could please you far better then that little girl could. She wouldn't know what to do with you.

[Corey]

Nathan Betancourt

http://i287.photobucket.com/albums/ll145/sojournfan/nathanonly.jpg

Hmmm...

Nathan wanted to make a claim on Elena but Jasmine knew him far too well. She knew what he would respond to and he was quickly forgetting about Elena. What sealed the deal though was seeing Bruno's face. Bruno had been walking to get some blood when he saw what was going on. Jasmine probably didn't even realize he was there, since her back was turned to him and she was too busy trying to seduce Nathan. He could tell the other male was very angry at what Jasmine was doing. Even if Bruno tried to hide it, Nathan knew he was in love with Jasmine. He cupped her face with his hands and gave her a long kiss.

You're right, I've been neglecting you lately. I'll make up to you.

He said and gave Bruno an arrogant smirk as he took Jasmine's hand and headed into his bedroom with her.

[Jenny]

Jasmine Torres

http://i287.photobucket.com/albums/ll145/sojournfan/jasmineunderworld.jpg

You'd better.

Jasmine replied with a seductive grin. At least for tonight, Nathan would leave Elena alone. Her grin died though when she saw Bruno's face. He was angry and she knew it but it was too late to do anything about it his reaction. Nathan was leading her into his bedroom. Bruno walked off angry and starting abusing the punching bag in his room. He was still hitting it when Jasmine came to his room afterwards. She knocked on his door and walked in.

Bruno-

What?!

He growled at her which caused Jasmine's eyes to narrow in anger. They were good friends, they rarely yelled at each other.

Don't yell at me.

Well don't go around-

He almost said whoring herself but stopped himself. He didn't want to say things to her that he would regret.

Doing what?

Jasmine demanded to know. Bruno took a deep breath as he stopped hitting the punching bag and looked at her.

You can't stop Nathan from sleeping with Elena. Sooner or later, he will. You know that.

I know.

Then why did you stop him today? You never cared if he slept with the other girls.

I don't care if he sleeps with them. It's just...Elena's different. She isn't like them and her brother just died...After she's been through in such a short amount of time, she didn't need Nathan forcing himself on her too.

I see.

Bruno said and Jasmine gave him a look. She could tell he was keeping something from her.

Is there something you want to tell me?

"Was there?" he asked himself. He wanted to tell her how he felt but he remembered how she told him she didn't believe in love anymore. He loved her but he didn't want to ruin their friendship. He shook his head.

No, just remember you can't protect Elena from Nathan forever.

I'll remember.

Although Jasmine would try and she had a feeling that wasn't what was truly on Bruno's mind. However, she didn't question him.

We still friends?

Always.

Bruno told her with a smile.

[Corey]

Nathan Betancourt

http://i287.photobucket.com/albums/ll145/sojournfan/nathanonly.jpg

After Nathan was done with Jasmine, he headed off to Sacha's room. He didn't know if the boy was still sleeping from the sedative but he didn't care. He leaned down to so he could muttered in his ear. To make sure nothing was lost in translation, Nathan spoke in Russian.

<<You disappointed me with your actions tonight. I should just kill you but your loyalty and devotion to me in the past has spared you. Ever screw up like this again, you'll finally be with your mother.>>

Nathan told him and left him with the warning.

[Corey]

Two Years Ago: Tel Aviv, Israel

Nathan Betancourt

http://i287.photobucket.com/albums/ll145/sojournfan/nathanonly.jpg

Nathan was pleased that Sacha understood the warning. Since that night in Rome, he never had to worry about Sacha feeding off of drug users again. The coven ended up having a short stay in Italy. It turned out that Riccardo Esposito's family had some family that wasn't too pleased to learn of his death. The coven's new home was Tel Aviv, Israel. It was a popular tourist city and had a dark side. The drug business was quite profitable. It was in Israel that Nathan found Sia Levin. The woman was one after his own heart. She was a smart businesswoman and ruthless. When the coven had moved to Tel Aviv, Sia was running the city's prostitution ring. Nathan, of course, never cared for competition and had came with Sacha when he was getting rid of them. After Sacha's incident with Riccardo, Nathan decided he had to earn his trust again. Some of the girls had been turned so they could be a part of his coven while others were killed. Sia was going to be killed until Nathan decided to spare her. He was glad he did, she was proving to be a valuable member of the coven. Even if she wasn't one for making friends. Sia always brought him the most money home.

Nathan we have a problem.

Sia told him holding up a bank card. Nathan gave the girls bank cards to use if they needed to fill their vehicles up while they were working. It was the only thing they could spend his money on. He always docked their pay for the cost of gas.

What is it?

The ATM declined the card.

What?!

Nathan yelled. That couldn't be possible, he had plenty of money in that account. Nathan stormed over to the computer to access his bank records and started cursing up a storm. All his bank accounts were emptied. He made some phone calls and was not happy at what he heard. Someone had withdrawn all his money in his name a few hours ago. He threw the phone against the wall in his anger.

I bet the thief used the Internet to steal from you.

Elena told him as she worked nearby bagging up drugs for the girls to sell. Nathan glared at her.

Of course they did! The f*cking idiot at the bank said so!

Elena jumped back a little at his anger and told him.

I know a little bit about computers, maybe I could help you find him...

You can do that?

Elena nodded her head and Nathan grabbed her by her arm and shoved her down into a chair in front of the computer.

Find him then!

Elena nodded and went to work. It took some time but she was able to trace the money withdraws to a bank in London, England. Nathan told Elena she couldn't rest until she found out the name of the thief. By using a chat room, Elena was able to track down the thief and get the location of where he was. Elena was tired by the time she figured it all out, Nathan wouldn't let her rest. She came up to him holding a piece of paper.

His name is Turner Matthews. He is from Alaska but he is on vacation in London. You might want to move fast though, he said he's only going to be there two more days. I was able to find the hotel address.

Good work. I hope he's enjoying his vacation since it's the last one he's going to take.

Nathan said with an evil look in his eyes. He went to find Bruno and Jasmine. They were coming with him to London to find this Turner.

Is Sacha coming too?

Bruno asked and Nathan shook his head.

No I'm going to kill this b*stard myself.

Sacha was earning back Nathan's trust, but Turner had stolen from him. It was personal and he wanted to be the one to end his life. He was going to regret the day he decided to steal from him.

[Jenny]

Jasmine Torres

http://i287.photobucket.com/albums/ll145/sojournfan/jasmineunderworld.jpg

When Jasmine found out someone named Turner Matthews had stolen from Nathan, she felt sorry for the guy. He had to be stupid to do so and he would die a painful death for it. Nathan was taking it personally if he was going to kill this thief himself instead of just sending Sacha. She was ready very fast for them to head to London to hunt down Turner.

[Corey]

Nathan Betancourt

http://i287.photobucket.com/albums/ll145/sojournfan/nathanonly.jpg

Once Jasmine and Bruno were ready, Nathan found Sacha.

<<You are in charge while we're in London. I'd better find this place exactly the way I left it when I return.>>

He told him in Russian. He didn't expect anyone to throw wild parties but he wouldn't have been shocked if some of the girls tried to run off while he was gone. Nathan rarely left and this would be a chance for some to run. He knew the girls were scared of Sacha though and he would be able to keep them from having some stupid ideas. After making sure Sacha knew his orders, Nathan left with Jasmine and Bruno to board an evening flight to London.

[SilntAngl5]

Sacha
http://lh5.ggpht.com/_BirvUCzeN8s/St2HII5voTI/AAAAAAAAB5A/jHJcELtkY3o/unknown_037.png

When Sacha had found out he was not going to London, he was irate. He paced his room the entire day. Curse words could be heard being shouted intermittently in Russian along with banging. It was not that he wasn't able to go touring or sightseeing. What angered Sacha was that Nathan had no use for him to go. He didn't understand that it was personal enough that Nathan wanted to kill the thief himself. Sacha only heard one thing: Nathan still did not trust him. When Nathan came to his room, he would find Sacha distressed, but very aptly calming and hiding it once he came in. The state of his room, with walls dented to match his red knuckles, and the heavy, laborious way Sacha breathed would be the only clues Nathan needed to know what was going on behind his closed door.

When Nathan said he was in charge, Sacha looked up in astonishment. He quickly checked himself and dropped his gaze to the floor. Despite the great responsibility being placed upon him, Sacha looked downward as if being scolded. He nodded an affirmative as Nathan left.

The first night without Nathan home was quiet. The women he held seemed more gossipy than usual, but one look from Sacha, who constantly patrolled the halls with his fighting knives strapped to his back, silenced them. Every one of them feared Sacha for his ruthlessness and violence.

It wasn't until the second night that the raid began.

[Corey]

Nathan Betancourt

http://i287.photobucket.com/albums/ll145/sojournfan/nathanonly.jpg

Nathan could care less if Sacha was irate for not getting to go to London. Nathan never cared what anyone else wanted and thought Sacha was acting like a little boy. He was glad that Sacha understood what was expected of him while Nathan was gone. When he, Jasmine, and Bruno arrived in London, their first stop was the hotel were the thief was staying. It angered him beyond belief that Turner had paid for one of the most expensive suites in one of the most expensive hotels in the city using his money. He must think he was a movie star because he was spending Nathan's money like he was. Normally Nathan would have booked a room in the hotel and jump Turner that way but Nathan had very little money after the plane tickets thanks to the thief. Luckily there was a pool near an outer wall of the hotel. It would be easy for a vampire to jump it.

You two head in first.

He told Jasmine and Bruno. He would wait on the roof of a nearby building. He wasn't going to risk his face being seen in case their plan went wrong.

[Jenny]

Jasmine Torres

http://i287.photobucket.com/albums/ll145/sojournfan/jasmineunderworld.jpg

Got it.

Jasmine said and Bruno nodded his head. The three of them had went over the plan during the plane ride. First though Jasmine and Bruno would have to make a stop at a late night shop for swimsuits. Who would be at a pool wearing normal clothes? Since they were using the pool to enter the hotel, they might as well look like they were guests enjoying it. They headed into a shop and Bruno told Jasmine as he picked up a pair of swim trunks.

Never thought I'd buy these ever again.

Me neither.

Swimming wasn't high on a vampire's to do list since most people liked to swim during the day. Jasmine picked out a bikini and a short sarong cover up to put around her waist. She was self conscious about a scar she had on her thigh thanks to a foster mother. They paid for the swimsuits and changed in an back alley. They hid their clothes and jumped over the fence. Luckily the hotel had an outdoor bar near the fence, so they were able to quietly hide their sudden appearance. In fact, it was near the entrance to the pool, so they made it look like they had just entered the pool area. To not raise too many suspicions, they had decided to act like guests for a little before heading up to Turner's room. Jasmine and Bruno ordered drinks from the bar although vampires couldn't actually taste them. It was all to keep up appearances and luckily one of the girls had been paid in large bills when she was working. They needed to act like they belonged in this ritzy hotel and were big spenders. Nathan had actually gave the okay to spend what little money he did have to catch the thief. Jasmine stretched out on a chair as Bruno swam. She made small talk with another guest who looked like she had spent too much money on plastic surgery. The woman gloated about how much money her husband made because he owned a movie studio.

Well we make some good money too. My husband and I own a boxing promotion.

Seems like an awfully violent sport.

The woman replied. The woman was acting like her attention was on Jasmine although Jasmine could see her checking out Bruno's body as he swam in the pool. Jasmine wondered why she felt some jealously catching her. She and Bruno were just friends but Jasmine had to admit Bruno was an attractive man, especially just wearing swim trunks. She smirked at the woman as she took a sip of the drink. Pretending like she actually liked it, although if she was a human and could have tasted it, she would still disliked it. Jasmine never liked alcohol, especially since Micha had liked it too much.

You'd be surprised how much money people will pay to see two guys beat the crap out of each other.

The woman admitted that was true and they continued their small talk for a while.

[SilntAngl5]

Sacha
http://lh5.ggpht.com/_BirvUCzeN8s/St2HII5voTI/AAAAAAAAB5A/jHJcELtkY3o/unknown_037.png


It began with gun fire and women screaming.

It was night and Sacha was in his room. He had just finished patrolling and all the women were resting from a long day's work. The drug shipments had all been sent out on time and according to nathan's strict schedule. He had just laid down on his hard bed, when he heard a bang.

Then gunfire.

"Dove si trova?!"

The doors were kicked in and the front entrance swarmed with men, all carrying a weapon of choice. They raided the halls and rooms. The women began screaming.

"Dove si trova Nathan?!"

Sacha was already out of bed and flying down the hall on bare feet. Mid flight he'd strapped on the X-shaped sheaths over his back and had drawn his swords. Two men with pistols rounded the corner. They never heard Sacha coming.

11, 10...

"Trovarlo! Lo voglio vivo in modo che io possa ucciderlo io stesso!"

The orders were barked in Italian. Sacha could hear it echoing down the hallways. He couldn't understand it, but recognized its sound from his years with Nathan in Italy.

"If I am not finding him I will burn this sh*thole to the ground and then find wherever that bastard is hiding. I want him found and I want him found now!"

Viadero Esposito, Father of Riccardo Esposito lit a beautiful Cuban cigar and exhaled the exotic smoke into the air. A thin, pencil mustache capped his lips. He was tall, strong and slicked in appearance, if not on the aging side. Six men surrounded him. Six of the twelve, himself included. Being a religious man, despite his iniquities, he only ever brought twelve. Thirteen was unlucky and holy. He never brought thirteen. Five of his men here were his children. Being an Italian man, he produced big numbers in money and progeny both. The mafia was his home and he stocked it well with his own seed who would outrank him one day when his time came.

Six. He'd had six sons. His Riccardo was dead. Killed by Nathan and he would have his revenge and he would have it now. He motioned to three of the men at his side.

"Have your fill of the women, compliments of Nathan Betancourt. Leave some for your brothers."

Viadero spit onto the ground.

"His name sounds French. I hate the French! All the more reason to kill him and burn this place."

An inhale from the cigar and another nod. The three other men at his side blew a round of bullets into the air.

"Nathan! Dove sei? I want to have words with you!"

Sacha tore down another hallway. Men were sacking the drugs and breaking the equipment. Sacha picked up speed and leapt into the air. He brought his swords down through their backs and then arched around to stab through a third who was aiming at him with his gun. He managed a shot that grazed Sacha's shoulder before he fell to the ground while trying to hold his intestines in.

9, 8, 7...

[Corey]

Elena Sammartino

http://i287.photobucket.com/albums/ll145/sojournfan/elenaunderworld.jpg

Elena was cleaning up her lab when the gun fire started. She recognized quickly the language being spoken, that of her home country. She grabbed a large knife and hid under the table to protect herself. She knew who was leading the attack, Riccardo's father.

Oh Dio...

She muttered to herself, she had heard the stories about Viadero when she was in the gang. He was part of the mafia and a man not to be crossed. She should have known he would someday track Nathan down for killing his son. She had met him briefly. She wondered if he remembered her. Elena hoped not, he would probably kill her brutally for being a part of Nathan's coven. One of Viadero's sons tried to grab a hold of Sia.

<<Get your hands off me you flighty dog!>>

She yelled in Hebrew as she elbowed him in the throat. The man staggered and quickly became one of Sacha's victims.

[Jenny]

Jasmine Torres

http://i287.photobucket.com/albums/ll145/sojournfan/jasmineunderworld.jpg

After thinking he had swam long enough, Bruno swam over to where Jasmine was talking with the other guest. He rested his arms on the side of the pool and looked up at her.

You ever going to join me baby?

Maybe I was just enjoying the view darling.

Jasmine replied and it wasn't a total lie. Bruno might be a large man but he was very muscular and Jasmine did like what she saw. Bruno smirked as he got of the pool. He walked over to Jasmine and leaned down to talk to her. His face was inches from hers and was dripping water all over her.

You're getting me all wet now.

That's not a bad thing.

Bruno replied and kissed her. Jasmine leaned up and returned the kiss. She told herself it was because she had to act like a married woman with Bruno since the guest she had been chatting with thought they were, but she did like it. It was the first time they ever kissed and neither wanted to stop. There was a spark between them. The other woman coughed and Jasmine pulled back blushing a little. Bruno told Jasmine huskily, not even noticing the look of envy on the guest's face because he only had eyes for Jasmine right now.

I think we should head up to our room.

Yeah...

Jasmine said standing up and handing Bruno a towel to dry off, she barely remembered to tell the woman bye as Bruno put his arm around her waist and they headed for the elevators. Both were silent because neither knew how the other had felt about the kiss. They always said they were just friends but now wasn't the time to discuss it. They had a job to do and besides they were other people in the elevator as they headed up to the floor where Turner had rented a room out using Nathan's money. They had hoped to be able to just pick the lock when they reached the room but it had a key card lock.

Damn it, I hate these.

Jasmine grumbled when she saw it. Bruno saw a hotel worker's cart down the hallway. He muttered in her ear.

Follow my lead.

He said and began kissing her again. Jasmine pressed herself against Bruno. They could hear a scoff from the worker.

Come on babe open the door.

Bruno said against her neck as Jasmine pretended to try and open the door.

I'm trying but you aren't giving me a chance.

Excuses. I just want to show you where the "real" Big Ben is.

Bruno said with a laugh and Jasmine pretended to drop something and curse that the key card must have went under the door.

Yeah well it will have to wait tiger. I just lost the key card.

Jasmine replied and she and Bruno acted like they were looking for it. Bruno waved the hotel worker over to them and asked if she could open the door for them since it seemed Jasmine lost it under the door. She was happy to so she wouldn't have to see their public display of affection anymore in the hallway. Jasmine quickly went in and bent down with her back away from the worker.

Thanks, I found it.

Although she didn't actually show the worker, since she found nothing. The worker was pleased and told them to have a good night.

Oh I plan to.

Bruno told her with a grin that caused the woman to leave even faster. Jasmine laughed.

I guess she didn't want to know where the "real" Big Ben was.

Her loss.

Bruno replied laughing and they looked around the room. It was an expensive room but it was a mess. It seemed who ever this Turner Matthews was, he wasn't much for picking up after himself and he had comic books scattered on a table.

The boss is going to be p*ssed if his money was spent on these.

Oh yeah.

Jasmine agreed and they signaled for Nathan to come over since they found the right room.

[SilntAngl5]

Sacha
http://lh5.ggpht.com/_BirvUCzeN8s/St2HII5voTI/AAAAAAAAB5A/jHJcELtkY3o/unknown_037.png

The other three men, Viadero signaled to begin sacking and destroying the compound. They went as he whistled. Another eleven came in, so he was surrounded by his comforting ring of twelve. Down the hallways where the women slept, their screams started rising.

"Nathan! I will burn this dump you call home to the ground and piss on your smoking ashes! Come out coward and face death with courage!"

Three men came into the lab with Elena and Sia. The first soul, the one Sia winded, staggered back and impaled himself like a pig onto Sacha's sword. He withdrew it quickly as the second, who was bagging samples of drugs, pulled a gun on him and fired. Sacha kept the first body from falling and let it take the friendly fire in the chest. He felt the impact from each round as it punctured the heavy corpse. The man swore in rage and holstered his gun. He charged at Sacha and met his dead friend as he was thrown. The man stumbled, caught the body and looked up in time for Sacha's blade to sweep across his throat. The third man reached under the table and yanked Elena out by her foot, not noticing her knife in his panic. He held one gun pointed to the back of her head and the other in Sia's direction.

"Drop de swords or I will kill dem!"

Sacha hesitated, shifting on his bare feet. His focused blue eyes shifted as if to gauge his options and kill the man before he was abel to fire off his rounds into their heads. It was a chance he would not take. Slowly, not taking his eyes off the man, Sacha lowered his swords to the ground before his feet. He removed his hands from the hilt and stood with them up. The man took his gun off Elena and pointed it at Sacha.

"Rot in hell you little bastard!"

Sacha stomped on the hilt of his sword, causing it to spike into the air. As the hilt spun around Sacha took one of his raised hand and shoved his palm forward with a yell. It collided with the long hilt and sent it on a direct path to the man's chest as he fired. The man dropped to his knees and then onto his back onto the floor. Sacha stood a moment and then walked slowly over to get his sword. When he bent to retrieve it, he winced. There was blood on his left cheek and a bullet graze across it and near to his ear. If he hadn't moved to hit his sword, that fraction of a shift, the bullet may have hit its mark. Sacha said nothing of it to the girls as he pulled his sword free and wiped it on the dead man's shirt. His left ear was ringing terribly from the sound of the shot going by.

6, 5, 4...

He glanced at Sacha and Elena and stood back up. He turned slightly so his good ear faced the door in case more men came. Instead, the sounds of the women screaming was what he heard. Their screaming and begging and pleading. Something in Sacha's stance hardened. His hands tightened, making the leather wrappings groan in their grip on his swords.

"Go to Nathan's office and lock doors. Do not let anyone in unless they are knocking two times."

It was a common fact that the doors to Nathan's office could withstand gunfire and, perhaps, even a small bomb. The same protection was not given to anyone else's rooms in the coven. Gun fire grew louder. The women were crying for a savior. For help. For release. Sacha's eyes darkened. His mother was like those women...

"Go... I will take care of the rest."

[Corey]

Elena Sammartino

http://i287.photobucket.com/albums/ll145/sojournfan/elenaunderworld.jpg

Elena could hear some of the women screaming at Viadero that Nathan wasn't home, not that it mattered to him. Elena covered her ears with her hands even as she held onto the knife. This raid was reminding her too much of the night her brother died and she turned into a vampire. Except that night on Sacha was doing all the killing. She had hoped to stay hidden like a mouse but the one man found her. She dropped the knife when he grabbed her.

<<Let go of me!>>

She screamed at him in Italian but didn't fight him because he had gun pointed the back of her head. All she could think of was soon she would be with Eddie. Sia saw Elena dropped the knife and was reaching for it when the man held his other gun on her. Sia wasn't scared though but more angry that he was threatening her. Still it happened fast for both women that Sacha had killed the man. Elena was standing there shell shocked and Sia had to grab her arm.

Go it, give them hell Sacha. Come Elena.

She said having to walk Elena towards Nathan's office. She pushed Elena in the office and locked the door.

Elena snap out of it! Help me move the desk.

Sia ordered and getting no response for Elena, she actually slapped in her in the face. That got her out of her daze as she rubbed her check.

Hey!

She complained but Sia didn't care, it got Elena moving. They two women pushed Nathan's heavy oak desk against the door for extra protection. Elena could hear the women screaming for help.

We should let them in.

No. It's too dangerous.

But they're-

They are replaceable. If Nathan was here, he would not worry about them.

Although Elena knew that was true she still didn't like hearing it.

That's not right.

Perhaps not but it is the truth.

[Corey]

Nathan Betancourt

http://i287.photobucket.com/albums/ll145/sojournfan/nathanonly.jpg

Totally unaware of the chaos that broken out at his coven's home in Tel Aviv, Nathan entered the room Turner had rented out in his name through the window. He looked at it in disgust. All he could see was his money being wasted. He saw the comics and thought that some child must have stolen his name. They heard the door unlocking and he motioned for Bruno and Jasmine to hide. He was going to have a lot of fun killing that little thief himself. Turner entered unlocked the hotel room, totally unaware of anything wrong. He was chatting on a cell phone.

....Yes Mom I'll be heading home soon...Miss you too....Look I got to go....I have a...umm...meeting to go too....Love you too...Bye.

He said hanging up the cellphone with a sigh. It was quite a task sometimes getting his mother off the phone. He set down the laptop bag he had carried in on his shoulder and quickly booted it up and went to a chat room. He hoped a certain user would be online, he had met her in a chat room a few days ago and liked chatting with her. But he hadn't seen her online today and it saddened him a little. Of course there was a time difference between Israel and England, so maybe she had been online earlier when he wasn't. He sent her an email. Nathan looked at Turner in shock for a moment, here was the thief. He looked a kid. Well the kid would regret stealing from him. When Turner headed to the kitchen area to grab something to drink, that's when Nathan grabbed him. He quietly and quickly grabbed Turner by his neck and slammed him against the wall.Turner looked at him in shock.

Hey dude what the-

You stole from me!

Nathan yelled in his face and Turner swallowed hard.

Oh umm...you must have the wrong guy...I-

You are Turner Matthews are you not?!

I'm a Turner Matthews but I can't be the only one in the world. You know there's probably lots of-

I doubt it! I'm going to kill you very, very slowly.

Nathan growled and Turner started to panic.

Look! I can give it back!

Nathan flashed his fangs at Turner who eyes were wide in horror.

Tempting but I think I'll just kill you.

Oh God...I...I...I...I can get you someone else's money. Double, triple what I stole! Just don't kill me! Please!!

Turner begged and Nathan thought for a moment. He wanted to kill Turner because he stole from him but the human was pleading for his life by offering him more money. He grabbed him by his shirt and pushed in the direction where he left his laptop.

Do it now!

Turner nodded his head and his heart dropped more when he had to ask Nathan his name so he knew where to deposit the money. Micha Duran aka Nathan Betancourt. The man made a lot of money but never filed taxes anywhere he lived. He also moved around a lot, sh*t....Turner was so naive, he should have realized this guy was into some bad things. He quickly deposited triple the amount of money he had stolen from Nathan into his accounts. Nathan was surprised how quickly he did it.

.....See it's all back with lots of interest....

What else can you do with that computer?

Just about anything...

If Turner wanted he could probably hack into government databases but he didn't want law enforcement looking into him. That's usually how thieves got caught, so he had stuck with just stealing from rich people. He usually only stole a little bit and it wasn't missed. He had only intended to steal a little bit of money from Nathan but he had hit the wrong keys and had emptied the accounts. After his trip in London he planned to return most of the money. He had just hadn't had a chance and thought Nathan wouldn't notice since his bank accounts didn't show much activity most of the week. Turner admitted it all to Nathan and Nathan tapped his chin.

Skills like this are rare and it would be shame to see them just disappear.

Oh yes, of course it would.

Turner said nodding his head quickly in agreement. Right now he'd agree with anything Nathan said. Even if he said the sun revolved around the Earth and that grass was purple.

I could use someone like you for my organization.

Nathan told Turner he had two choices. Either join Nathan's coven and work for him or die very painfully. It wasn't a hard choice and Nathan turned Turner into a vampire. Bruno looked at a clock on the wall and quickly closed the window shades. It would be daytime soon. They wouldn't be able to return to Tel Aviv with their newest member until tomorrow night.

[SilntAngl5]

Sacha
http://lh5.ggpht.com/_BirvUCzeN8s/St2HII5voTI/AAAAAAAAB5A/jHJcELtkY3o/unknown_037.png

"Shut up, shut up, you whores!" Viadero roared and threw a lamp in the general direction of their screams.

"I will burn this place to the ground with you in it and then wait for him to return!"

Many of the women were running away from the incoming Italians as Sacha was coming to them. Sacha grabbed them, some of them hard by the arms to keep them from running.

"Go to Nathans office! Elena and Sia are there. Knock two times! Go. Go!"

As each girl fled down the hall to the back of the building where Nathan's offices and the main bedrooms were, Sacha grabbed them and repeated the directions. He counted the girls as they passed and mentally checked off their names. Five were missing. Sacha tore down the hall, invading every one of the whore's rooms to look for the missing women. He tracked by smell and sight. Already the others who had escaped were going to Nathan's office and banging on the door. Two loud bangs and they'd shout to Elena and Sia inside to let them in, that Sacha sent them. if they didn't, some were frightened and angry enough to call out foul names before banging twice again. As he looked in the rooms, Sacha found two of the women huddled together in a corner. This was not their room... Theirs were down the hall.

"Where are Nitya, Anna and Miriam?" Sacha guarded the door and motioned them to come. The girls were crying and holding each other, beaten and bruised in places that caused Sacha to turn away for a moment. They had been raped. One pointed down the hall, toward the screaming and crying, the other was brave enough to speak.

"Those men..." was all she managed before bursting into tears. Sacha gave the two the same directions as everyone else and tore down the hall. In each room he came to, red rage blinded him. Anger at what he saw, fury at the men who were raping the women. Sacha killed each of them quickly dispatching them and dismembering them in the most terrible ways and places to sate his fury.

3, 2, 1...

What if one of these had been his mother? Even though she died a traitor... no one deserved to have their control taken from them, not like this. He was not gentle with the women, because there was still one man to kill. He pulled them up, gave them a blanket from their bed, and gave the directions on where to go and what to do. Some of them he had to push to get them moving down the hall. There would be other women who could comfort them better than he. He was a killer and he went to kill the final man.

By now, Viadero had noticed that it had grown far too quiet. No more women were screaming, there was no sound of his sons having their fun, no sounds of pillaging in the labs... nothing. He quieted the men who stayed with him.

"Nathan! This is your last chance! Come out or I will burn this pigsty to the ground and take everything from you! Just like you took everything from me."

Silence.

"Nathan! Get your *ss down here now!"

Then, in the doorway, someone appeared. A boy, he could not be more than thirteen or fourteen, stood there covered in blood, though little of it looked to be his. He had white hair and stunningly dangerous blue eyes. There were two, long fighting knives in his hand and they were dripping with blood. And he just stood there, staring at them!

"Who the f*ck are you? You are not Nathan!" Viadero smarted, taking his cigar out of his mouth.

"Why are you here?" the boy asked. He had a Russian accent.

"I will not talk to children. Go and get Nathan! Tell him I am going to send him swimming with the fish after I break his kneecaps for killing my son!"

"Who are you?" the boy asked. Viadero looked at his men, who smirked. He motioned to the boy incredulously with his cigar.

"Can you believe this brat?" he asked them. The boy's eyes narrowed. "I am Viadero Santana Vito Esposito and you can tell you boss that I have come on a personal matter concerning my son, Riccardo Andolini Paolo Esposito!"

The boy shifted then, but otherwise did not move. Then he spoke up in a loud voice.

"Nathan is not here! You will deal with me!"

Again, Viadero turned to his men and laughed.

"Boy, who are you to act like such a man? Don't you know who I am?"

The boy's face darkened and he pointed a sword-arm at Viadero.

"My name is Sacha Cherkesov and I know exactly who you are. You are a fool like your dead son! Nathan did not kill him. I killed him, just like I killed the rest of your men!"

The air in the room took a dark, violent shift.

"What!?"

Viadero dropped his cigar.

[Corey]

Elena Sammartino

http://i287.photobucket.com/albums/ll145/sojournfan/elenaunderworld.jpg

Sia didn't care if the women were knocking on the door, she had ran her own prostitution ring before Nathan had came to Tel Aviv, so she knew how replaceable whores were. She wasn't going to risk her own life in case some of Viadero's men were following them. Elena though had other ideas. When she heard the women knocking, she started to push the desk out of the way of the door. It wasn't an easy task for her, she was a small woman and Nathan's desk was very heavy.

What are you doing?

Sia said as she scoffed.

What does it look like? I'm going to let them in.

No. I told you-

I don't care what you said!

They are just whores Elena, Nathan can easily replace them.

So what?! They are people too and they don't deserve what Ricky's father and his thugs are doing to them. If you were in their shoes wouldn't you want someone to help you?

I would never be in their shoes. I do not need to sell my body to make money.

Of course not, you just liked to exploit those who did.

Elena said as she struggled to push the desk, it wasn't easy but she wasn't going to quit either. Sia didn't care and just sat down in Nathan's chair watching her. Elena didn't like Sia much because her viewpoints reminded her a lot of Nathan's. It was probably why Nathan had decided to keep her around.

It is a lifestyle they chose. Besides why do you care anyway? Most of them will dead within a year or two. Either by this man or by Nathan's hands.

That part was true, most of the girls would be dead. She had already outlived most of the girls that were in the coven before she was turned.

Because I'm a good person-

Sia laughed at the remark.

Really? A good person doesn't make drugs Elena.

Elena got angry at Sia's comment. It was true and Elena wasn't proud of the fact she made drugs. She was sure there were many drug addicts ruining their lives because of her. She had only made drugs to survive though. It wasn't a life she would have chosen if she had been given another option except death.

Just shut up.

Oh the little girl's mad. You shouldn't be sweetie.

Why is that?

She said finally getting the desk far enough away from the door so she could let the other girls in.

Because you're probably one of the only people here right now that Nathan would actually cared if they died. He needs you to make his drugs after all.

Elena knew she was considered valuable to Nathan because of her skills but she still thought the other girls should matter too. He wouldn't have his money if it wasn't for them.

Maybe but everyone should matter.

But they don't.

Sia said with a smirk as Elena unlocked the door and let the other girls in. Some were yelling that it took too long, others were hysterical over what Viadero and his men were doing. Elena and Sia heard from one of the women who had been raped that Sacha had went off to confront Viadero. Sia didn't show any emotion looking at the girls. It wasn't like prostitutes were never raped before. Some clients were decent enough and others were monsters. It came with the job. Elena thought felt horrible. No one deserved what happened, even if they were whores like Sia said. They were still people.

[SilntAngl5]

Sacha
http://lh5.ggpht.com/_BirvUCzeN8s/St2HII5voTI/AAAAAAAAB5A/jHJcELtkY3o/unknown_037.png

For a moment. No one moved.

"My sons...?" Viadero's voice sounded anguished and ready to plummet into rage. His men shifted. Viadero had six sons. Sacha stood taller. His voice was calmly accented, but commanding.

"If you leave now you will have your lives. This the last warning I will give you."

Viadero's hands quaked.

"You killed my boys!?!" grabbed a semi-automatic from the man next to him. "Marcire all'inferno figlio di una cagna!"

Viadero aimed at Sacha and fired. Sacha leapt into the air as the bullets flew and landed soundly on top of a table, scattering the lamp to the floor. He perched there, crouched and ready to spring. He held a sword in each hand and stared coldly at Viadero.

"So you choose death. Unwise."

Sacha leapt from the table and arched his twin blades downward into the chest of the nearest man. He screamed, gurgling his own blood in his throat, before dropping to the ground, dead. Sacha stood, his white, sleeveless shirt sprayed with the deceased's blood. There was no mercy in his eyes.

11...

"Non basta stare lì! Sparargli! Uccidere il piccolo bastardo!"

Viadero's men rushed at Sacha and opened upon him a hail of gunfire. He ducked and lunged forward, sweeping a leg out in front of him. The first three men with guns toppled. Sacha elbowed one in the throat and stabbed the second as he started to recover from his fall. The first fell back, gagging and grabbing at his crushed trachea. He would suffocate on the floor amid the fight. The third grabbed Sacha's arm and pinned it behind his back. He pulled forward and readjusted the hold on his sword before slamming himself backward into his foe. The tip of his long fighting knife protruded from the man's back before Sacha withdrew his sword.

Slowly the lights went out, from misplaced gunfire and Sacha's sword. Lights that lit the battle in the main room and lights that left the intruder's eyes.

10, 9, 8...

[Corey]

Elena Sammartino

http://i287.photobucket.com/albums/ll145/sojournfan/elenaunderworld.jpg

While Sacha was confronting Viadero, the girls were in Nathan's office. Sia was ignoring them all and was going through a filing cabinet. Elena saw her and scoffed.

Nathan's going to be p*ssed that you're going through his things.

I'm just looking for the clicker for the television.

Nathan had various security cameras set up in the coven's home so he could be keep tabs on people. Sia figured she would keep an eye on Sacha if she could find the clicker to turn on the large television that was on the wall. Nathan had the security system set up to be viewed on it but she couldn't find the remote control.

Sure you are.

Do you think I am so stupid that I would go through Nathan's things or steal from him when the almost the entire coven is in this room?

Sia asked Elena with a lot of anger in her voice. Even if she was tempted to do those things she wouldn't risk it right now. Word would travel too fast to Nathan that Sia had been nosy and he would make her regret it. Elena sighed.

I suppose not.

Of course not. Use your brain once in a while "smart" little girl.

Sia scoffed while Elena glared. Sia found the remote control under a revolver that was in a drawer. She noticed a box of silver bullets next to it and wondered if he kept those because he said someday he would hunt down the lycan that killed his brother. It took her a few minutes but she could the correct input on the television to watch the security cameras and a few more minutes to find the one that gave them a view of Sacha and Viadero. Most of the girls couldn't watch but a couple were cheering for Sacha to kill Viadero rather violently for what he had done to them.

[SilntAngl5]

Sacha
http://lh5.ggpht.com/_BirvUCzeN8s/St2HII5voTI/AAAAAAAAB5A/jHJcELtkY3o/unknown_037.png


Sacha had no idea he was being watched. The girls he'd rescued were far from his mind as he tore through the next several people who tried to destroy him.

7, 6, 5...

Viadero shouted orders to his men, but those words too were lost among the gunfire and screaming. Sacha grabbed a man's arm and pinned it behind his back. An elbow of another man met him in the nose. His head whipped back and blood poured from it. He growled in anger and lunged forward to tear his fangs into the man who'd broken his nose. He screamed as Sacha ripped a hole in his neck and fell to the floor. Sacha stabbed brought his long knife down and beheaded the man before stabbing upward with his other sword to impale the man he had pinned moments before.

4...

A gunshot pierced the ground beside him and Sacha rolled out of the way as it sprayed across the room. Slowly, the lamps were destroyed and the light dimmed dangerously. Sacha's blue eyes adjusted easily as he dove behind a couch to catch his breath. He gritted his teeth and lifted a couch into the air and threw it at two of the men, flattening them. The third cocked his gun and fired. Sacha dashed across the room, toward Viadero. The man ran the other way and threw something at the gunman.

"No no no, you idiot! Watch where you are shooting!"

The distraction was what Sacha needed. He came from behind and stabbed the man with both swords through his back. He screamed and convulsed, dying on his swords as he turned to use him as a shield to the other men who crawled out from under the couch. They both lifted their guns. Sacha ran at them with the body of their dying friend before him upon his swords. Blood sprayed everywhere.

3...

At close proximity, the bullets pierced through the corpse. Sacha cried out in aggression and pain as one went into his upper leg and several more grazed his arms. One punctured the right side of his chest. Sacha dropped the body and his swords and jabbed upward with his palm, breaking one man's skull from his neck. He crumpled as Sacha's fists flew, delivering air-sucking blows to his gut. He elbowed him in the face, brought his face down to meet his knee and then twisted his head sideways. The sound of the cracking of his vertebrae echoed in the settling silence.

2, 1...

Sacha pulled his swords free and turned to look at Viadero. He reached down to his leg and put a finger int the bullet hole. He cried out and twisted and pulled. The bullet rang like a wind chime as it clattered to the floor. His dangerous blue eyes looked up through his bloodied white hair. Dried blood crusted his face from his healed nose and the blood of Viadero's twenty-two men decorated his clothes. Five of them were his sons. Blood oozed from his leg and chest. Breathing was very hard. A lung may be down. He glared at Viadero. The man put his hands up, one held a gun.

"Brosʹte yego."

Sacha tried to stand straight as he ordered Viadero to drop his gun. of course, Viadero did not understand.

"Brosʹte yego syeĭchas!" Sacha's voice cracked as he yelled and pointed a sword at Viadero. He was in terrible pain and he could not breathe. He and Viadero locked eyes.

"God curse you!" he yelled and raised his gun to Sacha's head level. Sacha yelled and drew back his arm. Viadero pulled the trigger and fired.

Time slowed. Sacha's sword spun as it flew through the air. The whooshing sound buffeted the air, interrupted by a loud CLANG as the bullet ricocheted off the sword. The first sword spun away, but the whooshing sound remained as the second sword followed the first. Viadero had time to widen his eyes as death took him from the world. The video footage resounded with the sound of his head and body toppling to the floor.

0.

Sacha stood, breathing quickly, shallowly. He put a hand to his chest, not that it would do him any good and slowly knelt on the ground. Not in prayer, but in pain. He took a moment and closed his eyes to gather himself. Then he stood and began the long walk back to Nathan's office. He limped and was pale beneath the caked blood, but that was the only sign he gave of his pain. He got to the doors and knocked twice.

"Eto Sacha. Pozvolʹte mne dyuĭma" he said quietly, unable to catch his breath. He wanted in.

[Corey]

Elena Sammartino

http://i287.photobucket.com/albums/ll145/sojournfan/elenaunderworld.jpg

Sia was the only one who could watch the whole thing, the other girls found it too violent. Although the ones who been attacked were happy to know the men were dead and couldn't harm them or anyone else now. When it was over Sia turned off the television as Elena muttered a pray in Italian. It was so different just watching Sacha's killing on a television screen. The only other time she had seen what he was capable of was the night Nathan turned her. Tonight brought back too many memories of that. She had figured at least she was safe in the coven since Nathan never let her out, she was too "valuable" to let wander around cities. When Sacha knocked on the door, Elena opened it for him and gasped at the sight of him.

Are you badly hurt?

She asked him in English since it was the only common language they both spoke. Sacha didn't know much Italian and she didn't know much Russian.

[SilntAngl5]

Sacha
http://lh5.ggpht.com/_BirvUCzeN8s/St2HII5voTI/AAAAAAAAB5A/jHJcELtkY3o/unknown_037.png

Sacha pointed to his leg, which was already beginning to heal, and then to the hole in his chest which was still bleeding. Blood aside, his nose had already healed. It would not being to heal until the bullet was taken out. He breathed shallowly, quickly and when he spoke it was as if he could not catch his breath.

"Can't breathe..." he gasped and put a hand on the nearest thing that would steady him. The room was starting to blur. His chest felt like it was exploding with every breath he took.

"I can't... breathe..."

Sacha fell to his knees. The room grew fuzzy and bent sideways. He started to fall over.

"Ya ne... mogu dyshatʹ " he repeated in Russian and fell to the ground.

[Corey]

Elena Sammartino

http://i287.photobucket.com/albums/ll145/sojournfan/elenaunderworld.jpg

Oh geez!

Although Sacha wasn't her favorite person, Elena didn't want to see him suffer. She dropped down to her knee while Sia got up and walked over to him.

He said he can't breathe.

I heard him. He got shot at, he probably has a bullet in his chest.

Sia said and not caring that she got bloody. ripped his shirt so she could examine Sacha's chest. The other girls were just watching like it was some sort of show.

Go make yourselves useful and get the first aid kit!

Sia yelled at them and cursed in Hebrew how useless they were. She had been training to be nurse before she decided to make money in a more illegal way so she had a good idea what she was doing. One of the girls ran off to find it and quickly returned and Elena grabbed it. Sia made Elena her assistant as she reached into Sacha's chest and pulled out the bullet.

There his body should be able to heal him now.

She stitched up his wound and applied a bandage on his chest to soak up some of his blood. She then bandaged up his leg that was already healing and cleaned the blood of off Sacha's nose.

Help me get him to his room.

She told Elena since she seemed to the only one capable of helping. Elena and Sia put Sacha's arms on their shoulders so they could get to his room to rest. Sia looked at the other girls.

Clean up the mess. Nathan will not like seeing blood all over the floor.

[Corey]

Nathan Betancourt

http://i287.photobucket.com/albums/ll145/sojournfan/nathanonly.jpg

When night came Nathan had Turner pack up all his belongings so they could leave for Tel Aviv. It disgusted him to think all this crap Turner thought was so important was bought with his money. Turner sighed when he looked at his cell phone, there were a lot of voice messages from his mother. They were very close, he was an only child raised by a single mother. He was going to put it away when it rang again and he could see it was his mother's number.

Let me guess your mommy?

Nathan doubted that Turner had a girlfriend. He looked like he wouldn't know what to do with a woman. Turner nodded his head.

Yeah she worries. I'm going to have-

You're going to have to let her believe you died.

What?! No! I can't do that...I'm her only kid, it'll devastate her!

You should have about her before you stole from me!

Nathan growled at Turner and grabbed him by his shirt.

You use that computer magic of yours and let Mommy think you died or I'm going to really kill you!

...I....okay....

Turner said sadly and Nathan let him go. Turner almost felt like crying, he didn't want to do that to his mother. He went on his laptop and made up a story that he died in London on a boat trip. That he was trying to get a better look at the ocean and fell overboard and drowned. Oh Lord his mother was going to be so upset. After setting up the story and making sure some of his personal effects would be sent to her using a police address, he told Nathan he was ready to go to his new home.

[Jenny]

Jasmine Torres

http://i287.photobucket.com/albums/ll145/sojournfan/jasmineunderworld.jpg

It didn't take long for Jasmine and Bruno to recover their clothes once Turner said he was ready to go. It was such an awkward plane ride home. Nathan made Turner make his mother believed he had died, Jasmine could see how upset Turner was doing that. She could tell he loved his mother, she envied him a little for having a relationship like that. That was only part of the reason the trip home was awkward. There was the kissing she and Bruno had done. They needed to talk about it but they couldn't in front of Nathan and Turner. Neither knew what the other thought about it. They always said they were just friends but the kissing...It felt like they were more but neither Jasmine or Bruno knew how to even bring up the subject. When they got home and got to the warehouse, Jasmine said quietly to Bruno.

We need to talk.

...Yeah I know...

He said but before either could suggest where to talk privately they got the whiff of cleaning supplies in the air. The girls had tried to clean up the warehouse as well as they could after Sacha killed Viadero and his men but the scent of blood and death was very strong. They both frowned.

What the hell happened?

Jasmine asked as they walked in. Turner followed behind them but was scared. He was starting to wonder if he should have just let Nathan kill him.

[Corey]

Nathan Betancourt

http://i287.photobucket.com/albums/ll145/sojournfan/nathanonly.jpg

Nathan knew something was wrong as soon as they walked into the warehouse. The girls had tried to call him but he had been so busy with the business with Turner that he hadn't bothered with his phone.

Something I probably won't like.

He grumbled when Jasmine asked what happened. It didn't take long for the coven to realize Nathan, Jasmine, and Bruno were home. The girls were talking all at once to tell him what happened and he growled at them to shut up. He trusted Sia more then the others and had her tell him about Viadero and his men and how Sacha had protected the coven. She took him to Sacha's room where he was resting from his injuries. He looked down at the boy.

<<I am proud of you Sacha.>>

He told him Russian.

[SilntAngl5]

Sacha
http://lh5.ggpht.com/_BirvUCzeN8s/St2HII5voTI/AAAAAAAAB5A/jHJcELtkY3o/unknown_037.png

Sacha remained in his room until Nathan got home. Once the bullet was removed, his body began to heal, but the damage to his lung was extensive and it would take a while for him to recover. When Nathan returned he tried to sit up, but was only able to prop himself up on his elbows. Sacha looked up at Nathan, but only in the physical sense of eye contact. his very blue eyes were careful, cautious, judging as Nathan spoke to him.

<<Thank you>> was what he said in their native Russian.

<<I did only... what I felt I must.>>

The truth was, Viadero's men were his responsibility to handle. He had killed Riccardo when their entourage was in Italy, though Viadero thought quite the opposite, and who could blame him? It was Sacha's responsibility to finish what he had started. Nathan left him in charge and as little as he cared for the girls or the drugs, especially the drugs, Sacha felt obligated to take care of things as Nathan would have wanted.

Even if he did have to kill 23 men.

Sacha's words came slow and his breathing was still quick. Long sentences hurt, so he spoke little. He was eager to be well enough to train, to spar, to go to the gym and regain the control and stamina he's lost. He was eager to regain his usefulness to Nathan lest he become something unwanted in the master's household.

<<Welcome home... Master>> he said quietly and looked down.

[Corey]

Nathan Betancourt

http://i287.photobucket.com/albums/ll145/sojournfan/nathanonly.jpg

<<You're welcome. I forgive you for your mistake with Riccardo, I won't be observing all your missions anymore.>>

Nathan told Sacha. Although the mess with Riccardo had happened about two years ago, Nathan could hold long grudges. When Sacha had fed on the high Riccardo, it had made him lose Nathan's trust. Nathan believed that if Sacha couldn't be careful with who he fed on then he couldn't be trusted on his own to carry out Nathan's wishes. But stopping Viadero's attack and finally getting that man off his back had redeemed Sacha in Nathan's eyes. Most of his drugs were safe and only a couple of the girls had been "damaged" by the attack. If the ones who were raped couldn't get over it, he'd just kill them. Sia hadn't lied to Elena when she said the girls were easy to replace. Nathan could tell that Sacha was in pain and touched his shoulder when he welcomed him home.

<<Thank you Sacha. Rest now, you earned it.>>

[Jenny]

Jasmine Torres

http://i287.photobucket.com/albums/ll145/sojournfan/jasmineunderworld.jpg

When Jasmine and Bruno found out what happened while they were in London both knew they would have to wait to talk about their own problems. When Nathan went off to talk to Sacha, Jasmine told Bruno.

I'm going to see how Elena's doing.

Bruno nodded his head. Both knew Elena sometimes had bad nightmares about the night Sacha had killed Riccardo and his men. Bruno told Turner he might as well show him around. Turner looked at all the girls like a teenage boy.

Wow there sure are a lot of pretty girls here.

Yeah but don't get any ideas. They're all Nathan's. He might let you sleep with one of them if you do something that makes him happy though.

Nathan didn't share often but there were so many girls that it wasn't like Bruno or Sacha couldn't enjoy them as well. Although Bruno didn't do that often. He was in love with Jasmine and felt like he was almost cheating on her when he gave into his body's needs and slept with another woman. Not that it mattered much to her, he thought. They were just friends....

...I see...So does that mean Jasmine's his too? Because it seemed you two were like a couple.

We're just friends.

Bruno replied but even to his own ears it sounded like a lie and he could from Turner's face he didn't full believe him. Turner didn't push the subject and followed Bruno around the warehouse. Jasmine was comforting Elena who was still upset about what happened. The attack reminded her too much of the night her brother died. If it hadn't been for Sacha and Sia she would have been dead, she'd been too scared to even move when Viadero and his men attacked.

Please don't tell Nathan....

Nathan would think she was weak and Elena was scared that he wouldn't think she was valuable anymore. He never liked weak people. Jasmine squeezed her shoulder.

I won't.

Elena nodded her head happy and gave a small smile to Turner when Bruno brought him over to be introduced. The computers were set up near Elena's lab, so Turner and Elena would be working close together. When Turner heard Elena's accent, he told her.

You're "chemgirl88" aren't you?

Bruno and Jasmine didn't know too much about technology and had no idea what Turner was talking about. Elena did though, that was the username she had used in the chat rooms to find him. He had said he was an American in England and she had replied she was an Italian stuck in Israel.

Yeah...I'm sorry. Nathan made me find out where you were.

Although she had only chatted with him online, Elena had liked Turner and thought he had seemed like a nice guy. Turner shrugged.

It's okay. I kind of figure he's the type of man who always gets his way. At least he thought I was more valuable alive then dead.

Elena was glad that Nathan had thought Turner was worth more alive. She had a feeling they would become good friends.

[SilntAngl5]

Sacha
http://lh5.ggpht.com/_BirvUCzeN8s/St2HII5voTI/AAAAAAAAB5A/jHJcELtkY3o/unknown_037.png


Sacha's eyes widened momentarily before he regained control of himself. Not having Nathan shadow his missions relayed a copious amount of trust. Sacha shifted in bed and sat up a little bit straighter, as if Nathan's words gave him the strength he needed to appear just that much stronger.

"Spasibo" he said quietly, thanking Nathan again in formal Russian.

he had looked down, not expecting the touch on his shoulder. When it was given to him, Sacha looked back up at Nathan in surprise. He blanketed his emotions again, before surprise could turn to suspicion or fear. Nathan never... He didn't... Sacha felt something odd swell in him. Something like pride but... different. Warmer. It spread across his chest.

Perhaps he had some internal bleeding?

<<Thank you>> he said in a quieter tone. It suddenly felt very difficult for him to breathe and he sat back down slightly to ease the muscles of his chest. It helped... but there was still that odd warmth spreading from his heart. he really hoped it wasn't something fatal that his body couldn't fix. but, then again, if it was, perhaps that would be a better end than someday growing useless in Nathan's eyes.

[Corey]

Nathan Betancourt

http://i287.photobucket.com/albums/ll145/sojournfan/nathanonly.jpg

Nathan could tell Sacha was shocked at him being nice, it was a rare occurrence after all. But he actually meant it, he was proud of Sacha. Sacha had successfully protected the coven, he earned Nathan's trust back. He proved he was worthy of being in the coven.

<<You're welcome.>>

He turned to leave Sacha to recover when he thought of something.

<<When you feel better, you may sleep with one of the girls if you want.>>

Bruno hadn't lied to Turner when he said all the girls were Nathan's. They were all his and once in a while Nathan was willing to share. Sacha earned that type of reward.

[SilntAngl5]

Sacha
http://lh5.ggpht.com/_BirvUCzeN8s/St2HII5voTI/AAAAAAAAB5A/jHJcELtkY3o/unknown_037.png


When Nathan turned to leave, Sacha sat up straight and held his ribs, despite the terrible pain there. He would have stood, were it possible, but he had been told not to get out of bed. His ribs were black and blue and he was well bandaged across his bare, white chest. The warm feeling remained as Nathan's presence left the room. For the first time in a very long time, Sacha felt a small measure of security. But he kept it guarded with a wall of distrust. Nathan was still Nathan, despite his show of affection and Sacha knew that security was a weak feeling.

He would not be weak!

When Nathan turned to him at the door of his thinly decorated room, he looked up attentively. He always paid attention when Nathan spoke. but he hadn't expected him to give permission to sleep with one of his women.

<<Son s odnoĭ izdevushek?>> he repeated aloud in quiet Russian as Nathan left. His room was very dark, but he made no move to get up and go to the door. He had never slept with anyone before. Jurek had given him and the others opportunities, but he was younger then and such things didn't mean a thing to him. Now... Sacha had walked by the girls when they had clients. He had seen some of what went on and heard the sounds they'd made. He'd even heard Nathan a few times romancing women, whether they wanted it or not, but such things were not his business. He breathed deeply with the thought, but each breath caused a pang of pain. Nathan's offer was on the table. Sacha laid back down in the darkness of his room and slept.

It was very late at night when his door opened and a slim figure squeezed in before closing the door behind her. The darkness that enveloped her eyes was deep, but she, like the others, was turned and saw Sacha sitting up on his elbows with one of his knives out. The piercing blue of his eyes made her catch her breath and stop in her tracks. The girl suddenly regretted coming here. Maybe he would kill her. She'd made a terrible mistake.

"Why are you here?"

His voice pierced the darkness like his knife, but there was raspy quality to it that hinted at his weakened condition. Sacha stared at her face, not at the thin veil of a nightgown she sore. Too short. He thought she was a threat. Why... why would he think that?

"Did Nathan say you could sleep with one of us?"

She answered his question with a question. He could hear fear in her voice. Slowly, he put his knife back under his pillow.

"Da" he said and swallow a husky feeling in his throat. He could make out the dark outline of her thin form as she approached his bed. Each step brought out a detail. The largeness of her eyes, the darkness at their core, her long, dark hair and her beautiful, dark skin. Nitya. Sacha searched his memory. She was one of the girls-

She stopped when she got to his bed. Her face and torso were bruised and her lip was cut. He could tell by the way she walked carefully that there was an amount of pain to her movement. He sat up more on his elbows, wishing he could sit up fully without showing pain. Slowly, Nitya sat down on the bed beside his legs. The two of them were silent. Then, Nitya touched Sacha's chest and leaned down to bring her lips to his. Sacha inhaled sharply at her touch, but did not shirk away as her lips touched his. When they parted, Nitya opened her eyes to look at him.

"What are you doing?" he asked quietly as she moved aside a strand of very white hair. She kept her hand on his chest and felt his heart pounding.

"You never-" but she stopped. The girls all feared Sacha a little more and a little less since the intrusion of Viadero and his men. A little more respect, now, than fear. Slowly, Nitya crawled the rest of the way onto Sacha's bed, leaving the sheet between them as a barrier as she straddled his waist. Her soft, gentle fingers touched his chest, smoothing from his abs to his clavicles.

"I am saying thank you... from all of us, for what you did."

Sacha did not stop her as she bent down to kiss him. She broke their kiss to draw her nightgown over her head. Sacha inhaled deeply, despite the pain. Nitya bent down to him again and kissed him.

"Thank you for saving us" she whispered quietly and melted her form into his. Sacha reached up and embraced her in the darkness. She would not leave his room again until just before dawn.

[Corey]

Seven Months Ago: Berlin, Germany

Nathan Betancourt

http://i287.photobucket.com/albums/ll145/sojournfan/nathanonly.jpg

It didn't take long for the news to travel through the coven that Sacha had become a man. Bruno had heard Nitya had went to him before Sacha even picked a woman to be with for his first time. He told him congratulations while Turner actually felt embarrassed. A boy that was younger then him by almost 7 years more of a man then him. Turner was far too shy to be with one of the girls although Nathan said he could after he stole money from Nathan's rivals and got him details of where they lived so Sacha could hunt them down. Some of the girls thought it was cute in a way that Turner was so inexperienced and offered to teach him. He always turned them down. One because he was too shy and the other because of his growing feelings for Elena. She was different then most of the girls and if he was going to be with someone intimately, he'd rather be with her. Although he hadn't told her because like Bruno, he didn't want to ruin a friendship. Plus Elena wasn't comfortable with a lot of affection from men. Her only experience with men was with Riccardo and Nathan and those weren't the best examples of how a man should treat a woman in bed. After the mess with Viadero was resolved, Nathan decided to move. A lot of the girls didn't like being in Tel Aviv, the memories of the attack were always fresh on their minds. Plus Sia had told him she saw the local police snooping around. So that's why they were living in Berlin now for about three months. Although there was no specific reason to it. He had just thrown a dart at a map of the world and it landed on Berlin. When they had first arrived there was a man named Alric who seemed to think he was in control of the prostitution in the city. Well Nathan made sure he realized how wrong he was. He had Sacha kill him, all his male employees, and any of the women who wouldn't work for him. Although he didn't have Sacha burn his home. Alric favored old buildings like him and Nathan liked his home, so he kept it. That's how Greta came into his coven. She made the mistake of coming home from work after Nathan was already in control.

[Jenny]

Jasmine Torres

http://i287.photobucket.com/albums/ll145/sojournfan/jasmineunderworld.jpg

Jasmine and Bruno never did discuss what happened between them in London. At first they were too busy helping Turner adjust to his new life and helping the girls get over what had happened the night Viadero attacked. They intended to talk about it but eventually it seemed too much time passed and both thought it would be too uncomfortable to bring the subject up. So instead they acted like it didn't happen and kept saying they were just friends. Jasmine didn't mind Germany, it was nice to get away from the sands of Israel and the constant fighting that went on there between humans. She was waiting by Nathan's door, she had news to give him. News she was sure he wouldn't like. His door was locked though and she could hear from the other side not to bother him. He was "busy" and everyone knew it was never wise to interrupt Nathan. So she stood there leaning against the wall until the door opened and she saw Greta come out.

Hi Jasmine.

Greta replied although she wasn't looking at her directly, she didn't really like having to go to Nathan's room. Since she joined the coven, she seemed to be one of his new favorites. Formerly one of Alric's girls who made the mistake of coming home after Sacha killed almost everyone. Nathan would have had her killed as well if she hadn't agreed to work for him instead. Jasmine gave her a small smile.

Hi Greta.

She had been there three months and seemed like a nice enough girl. She did what she was told and Jasmine had the feeling she would be there for a while. Greta was going to walk away when Jasmine asked.

You haven't been using again right?

It hadn't taken Jasmine long to realize Greta was a drug addict when they took over. Greta wasn't proud of it but sometimes it helped her deal with the life Alric forced her to live. When Jasmine realized it she told her it wasn't wise. That clients could hurt her and she needed a clear mind to protect herself. If one got violent, she'd have to save herself. There weren't white knights out there to save damsels in distress like in stories. Greta had taken her advice to heart.

No, I've stayed clean.

Greta told her with a small smile. She hadn't been using in a few months.

Good, I'm proud of you.

They weren't very close, Jasmine had learned long ago not to be close to the girls. Most weren't there long but she thought Greta was a nice enough girl. She didn't deserve this type of life and if they had met a different way, she'd probably be friends with Greta.

Thanks...I'd better go so you can talk to Nathan.

Plus Greta really wanted to shower. Jasmine nodded her head and headed inside Nathan's room.

Nathan I have something to tell you.

[Corey]

Nathan Betancourt

http://i287.photobucket.com/albums/ll145/sojournfan/nathanonly.jpg

Nathan knew Greta didn't like coming to his room but she never fought him. She was always such a good girl, doing what she was told. Nathan was laying in his bed when Jasmine came in. He was naked and made no effort to get dressed or cover up. Jasmine had been in his room plenty of times since he found her, so it wasn't like he had nothing she hadn't seen before. Besides he wasn't ashamed of his body and was very vain about his looks anyway. In his mind he was the best looking vampire in the world and women should be honored to be with him or see him nude.

What is it Jasmine?

He asked when she said she had something to tell him. Why did he have the feeling he wasn't going to like what she had to say?

[Jenny]

Jasmine Torres

http://i287.photobucket.com/albums/ll145/sojournfan/jasmineunderworld.jpg

It didn't bother Jasmine that Nathan made no effort to cover himself up, she had been in his bed enough times herself. Seeing him naked was nothing new.

Thierry Petit still owes you money. He keeps claiming he needs another week to get it. Bruno tried to muscle a payment out of him but it didn't do any good.

Thierry was a well known client of Nathan's. He was very addicted to drugs but hadn't paid back all the money he owed Nathan for them. Since he used to throw money around like it was nothing, Nathan had let him build up a tab. It seemed his money tree died though since Thierry hadn't paid for anything he owed Nathan in a month but still wanted more drugs. Bruno and Jasmine had tried to collect some money from him but it hadn't succeeded.

Turner went into his financial background and found out he doesn't even have a dollar in his bank account, his credit cards are maxed out, and that his fancy apartment he owns is in foreclosure.

[Corey]

Nathan Betancourt

http://i287.photobucket.com/albums/ll145/sojournfan/nathanonly.jpg

I see.

Nathan replied when he heard that Thierry still owed him money and had no way to repaying him. Such a shame for Thierry, he had been a good client once. He got out of the bed and pulled out clothes from his closet to get dressed.

I'll just have to take care of this myself.

He got dressed and headed to find Sacha. Once he found him, he told the boy.

You and I need to make a little trip. Someone owes me money and he has been given enough notices to pay me.

There was only so long Nathan would allow someone to be in debt to him before he got tired of it. Thierry's time was up.

[SilntAngl5]

Sacha
http://lh5.ggpht.com/_BirvUCzeN8s/St2HII5voTI/AAAAAAAAB5A/jHJcELtkY3o/unknown_037.png


Despite the encouragement from Bruno, Sacha would wave him off and utter a few choice Russian swears at the older man. The women, when he'd walk by their section of the Coven would sometimes whistle or call out cute remarks. The brave ones would while some would shirk back, but peek around corners and whisper and giggle. He hated the attention and muttered and cursed about it in Russian, wondering what everyone's problem was and what was the big deal if he slept with someone? He knew, though, that such things mattered. A coming-of-age of sorts. He was a man now and not just because he'd slept with Nitya, but because Nathan let him do his missions alone. There was trust.

It wasn't just Nitya that he'd slept with. On successful missions, Nathan would often give him the opportunity to sleep with his women. Sacha had been in the coven long enough to know that Nathan operated a certain way. If he showed a favoritism for bedding Nitya, however much it may be true, it could and would be used against him. So he altered who he slept with, sometimes putting two or three women between his time with Nitya. She had been his first and while he admitted no outward feelings for the girl, he could not deny that it was something special to him. outwardly, he treated her no differently than any of the other prostitutes Nathan had and he knew, and this was why he favored the girl, that she understood why. He appreciate her quiet demeanor, her watchfulness, and knew she was intelligent. Both were things he found... appealing.

Sacha was glad to leave Tel Aviv. He felt uneasy staying in one place too long. Jurek had often traveled, entering his fighters in many tourneys all across Europe. The antics of Germany amused him, but as always, it was not the same as Russia. He felt nothing when asked to kill Alric and his women. If he felt something, it was weakness and would get in the way of his work. He blocked Viadero and his men from his mind. What he was doing was different. It was business. He was not raping anyone. He was simply doing his job.

It was either that, or die by Nathan's hand for being useless.

But Nathan rarely ran out of things for Sacha to do. When Nathan found him, he was in the gym working on his forms with his knives. He was shirtless and a sheen of sweat covered his chest. There were scars there from Viadero and his men. When Nathan entered he stopped and sheathed his knives. He nodded when Nathan gave his orders, bowed, and left to get ready. He didn't tell Nathan, but he would need a half hour to shower and pack. He would be ready for his boss and waiting for him when he was ready to leave.

[Corey]

Nathan Betancourt

http://i287.photobucket.com/albums/ll145/sojournfan/nathanonly.jpg

Nathan hadn't lied when he told Sacha that protecting the coven from Viadero had earned back his trust. He usually let Sacha complete missions on his own but Thierry Petit owed him money and money always made it personal to him. Once Sacha was ready, they went in Nathan's car to a very expensive part of Berlin. Rich people lived here and flaunted their wealth. This was the type of place Nathan would live in if his way of making his fortune wasn't looked down upon by the law. Thierry owned a penthouse apartment that overlooked the city. Thierry had made a fortune through business investments. Sadly for him though many of his investments had failed and he was becoming broke rather quickly. He had loved to spoil himself with the finer things in life and wasn't smart enough to realize he should cut back his spending when his income started to get smaller. Nathan had Sacha stay behind him when he rang the doorbell of Thierry's apartment. Thierry's face turned white as a ghost when he saw Nathan.

Mr. Betancourt...

You and I need to have a "chat" Thierry.

Of course...

He said and moved back to let them inside. He swallowed hard seeing Sacha. Nathan walked around the apartment taking note of the very expensive things inside it.

My employees say you still haven't paid for the last month's supply.

Nathan said picking up an expensive Ming vase. Thierry didn't like Nathan holding it because it cost him a lot of money but he wasn't about to tell him what to do.

I...I'm working on it, business hasn't been well for me but I'll have your money very soon.

That's what you keep saying but yet I see no money.

Nathan replied as he looked over the vase. Thierry started to sweat heavily.

I just need more time to-

I've given you plenty of time!

Nathan roared and he threw the vase against the wall. It made a loud noise as it shattered against it. Thierry backed away and held up his hands.

Please Mr. Betancourt I've always been a very good customer!

Which is why it almost makes me sad to see you die. But I don't give away free drugs Thierry and you know that.

Nathan growled at him and motioned for Sacha to make his move. Thierry begging when Amy walked into the room. She had been sleeping when the sound of the vase had awakened her. She had no idea why Nathan and Sacha were there.

Thierry? What's going on?

She asked nervously. Nathan turned his head when he saw her. Thierry had been her boyfriend for a couple of years but she had no idea about his drug abuse. He had hidden it so well from her. Thierry had no idea what to say and started to stammer.

Your boyfriend owes me money.

Nathan knew everything about Thierry's life and knew he wasn't married. Nathan made the habit of having Turner discover everything he could about any person Nathan dealt business with.

For what?

Drugs.

What?

Amy replied confused and Nathan laughed.

Oh, you didn't know. Did you? Thierry here has been a long time client of mine but he hasn't paid his tab in a while.

Thierry-

Look, please don't kill me. Take whatever you want!

We're pass the point of bartering.

Nathan replied while Thierry was panicking and trying to think of a way to save his life.

I...I...You can have Amy! She's really good in bed.

What?!

Amy looked at Thierry in shock and Nathan sneered at her.

Tempting but I can just kill you and have her anyway. Sacha kill him. I'm tired of hearing his voice.

[SilntAngl5]

Sacha
http://lh5.ggpht.com/_BirvUCzeN8s/St2HII5voTI/AAAAAAAAB5A/jHJcELtkY3o/unknown_037.png


Sacha rode in silence behind Nathan, speaking only when spoken too. He was quiet by nature, but on missions, he rarely said a word. His mind was formulating, calculating possibilities, scenarios, ways in which he would carry out his duties to Nathan while protecting him at the same time. People were unpredictable and Sacha always had the advantage of thinking of many options before entering a building where he was meant to kill. This time, it was just he and Nathan and there was also a need to protect. it made him uneasy when Nathan motioned for him to stay behind him. He bounced back and forth on the balls of his feet until the door opened and Thierry answered. Then Sacha was watchful, calm. His blue eyes, dangerously and intently watching Thierry as he spoke with Nathan. His stance was wide and his hands held slightly from his sides, extended to grab his knives with lightning reflexes if Thierry so much as sneezed in Nathan's direction. Sacha glared at the man as he walked inside behind Nathan. Immediately he swept his eyes over the place, checking for threats, traps, guns, cameras, anything that would impede their being here and leaving safely.

He waited and when Nathan signaled, Sacha drew one of his long knives and stepped forward, but then Amy entered and he switched from pointing a knife to Thierry alone to holding both arms extended, a knife pointing at them both. The sword at Amy was a more defensive pose, to protect Nathan, while Thierry would soon be dead and to him Sacha pointed the sword with that very intent. Then, when given the signal, Sacha spun, removing his sword from pointing at Amy and sliced one sword across Thierry's throat before burying the other into the center of his chest. He removed the blades and let them man stand or fall, suffocate or bleed out. Whichever happened to occur first. He stepped back, closer to Nathan without a hint of emotion for the man that he'd killed. He then pointed his sword at Amy and moved to stand closer to her, on the offensive. If given the command, he would dispatch of her as well. All Nathan had to do was say so.

[Corey]

Nathan Betancourt

http://i287.photobucket.com/albums/ll145/sojournfan/nathanonly.jpg

Amy gasped in fear when Sacha held a sword on her when she first entered the room. She should have just stayed in bed. Nathan sneered when Sacha killed Thierry who begged until the end for his life. Amy was going to run for it but Sacha was fast and already had a sword pointed on her before she could move. Nathan moved too close for comfort in front of her and touched her hair.

Now Amy, that's your name right?

Amy swallowed hard and nodded her head.

Well Amy the way I see it you have two options. You die or come work for me.

Can't you just let me go?

She asked in quiet voice that was full fear. Nathan laughed.

Let you go? Now that's funny. I don't think so. You have until I count to five to decide. One, two, three-

I'll work for you!

Amy yelled out and then the instant she said she wondered if she should have picked the other option. Nathan's sneer grew larger and his fangs could be seen.

A wise decision.

Nathan said and pushed her hair off her neck to bite her neck and turn her into a vampire. Amy gasped when it happened. After biting Amy, Nathan said to Sacha.

Clean up this mess while Amy and I wait in the car.

Of course when Nathan said clean up the mess, he meant to start a fire. He didn't want evidence left behind. He grabbed Amy's arm and had her walk with him to the car to wait for Sacha.

[SilntAngl5]

Sacha
http://lh5.ggpht.com/_BirvUCzeN8s/St2HII5voTI/AAAAAAAAB5A/jHJcELtkY3o/unknown_037.png



Sacha turned his head when Nathan bit Amy. When he was finished with turning her and gave Sacha an order, he obeyed. He went to the kitchen area and broke open bottles of bleach and other cleaning supplies. They were dumped all over the kitchen. The smells were intoxicating and with his heightened senses, he felt himself getting lightheaded and pulled his shirt up over his nose. He pulled a large lamp in from one of the living rooms and plugged it in on the counters, in the thick of the oozing mess. Sacha looked at the lamp for a moment and then slammed it onto the countertop. The bulb splintered and sparked, catching the cleaning fluids. Immediately, the flame caught and roared upward. Sacha stepped back from the heat and shielded his eyes. He kept his nose and mouth covered as the fire burned poisonous fumes into the air. He backed to the kitchen door and made sure the fire caught before slowly backing out. As the fire advanced toward the kitchen door and into the adjoining rooms, Sacha departed the house and made his way back to Nathan's car. He got in and shut the door behind him.


"Svershilosʹ" he said, out of breath. He coughed and removed his shirt form his nose. It is finished.

[Corey]

Nathan Betancourt

http://i287.photobucket.com/albums/ll145/sojournfan/nathanonly.jpg

Nathan made Amy sit in the front seat of the car with him while they waited for Sacha. She felt sick to her stomach watching the apartment go up in flames. All her possessions were gone but even worse was that she was now stuck here. She couldn't run because she knew Nathan would have that boy kill her. She had seen how quickly he had killed Thierry and it scared her. As soon as Sacha was in the car, Nathan started to drive away.

<<Excellent. You may have one of the girls tonight as your reward.>>

Nathan was speaking in Russian to Sacha and Amy had no idea what they were saying. She only knew English and French. Her father was French while her mother was Canadian. She and her older sister had spent most of their childhood in France and spent holidays in Canada. Although she had the feeling she didn't like what was being said and some of it was about her. Especially when Nathan sneered at her.

<<I'm going to see if Thierry was lying about her bedroom skills when we get home.>>

[SilntAngl5]

Sacha
http://lh5.ggpht.com/_BirvUCzeN8s/St2HII5voTI/AAAAAAAAB5A/jHJcELtkY3o/unknown_037.png


Sacha glanced at Amy in he front seat as he climbed in the back. His blue eyes flicked up at Nathan.

"Thank you, Master" he replied quietly in Russian. He glanced suspiciously at Amy to see if she understood, but she looked more frightened than anything, and their talking in another language only seemed to make it worse. Nathan's comment about the woman's skills in bed caused Sacha to look down. He was heartless in many things, but he did not like it when people's control was forced from them. Like when he lost control of himself after drinking Riccardo's hopped-up blood, or when the women were being raped by Viadero's men... Sacha's hands tensed on the seat and he said nothing, but made an affirmative noise to Nathan. A small grunt of acknowledgement to let him know he'd heard him.

[Corey]

Nathan Betancourt

http://i287.photobucket.com/albums/ll145/sojournfan/nathanonly.jpg

Nathan nodded his head when Sacha thanked him. Once they arrived back home, he grabbed Amy's arm to take her to his bedroom. He didn't get any money from Thierry but he would at least see if Thierry was telling the truth about how well his girlfriend was in bed. The second they arrived at the warehouse Amy began to think she should have just let Sacha kill her. Dying would probably be better then what Nathan had planned for her.

[Jenny]

Jasmine Torres

http://i287.photobucket.com/albums/ll145/sojournfan/jasmineunderworld.jpg

Jasmine wasn't overly surprised that Nathan found a new girl when he tried to collect from Thierry. The man had no money left, so Nathan had to take something to make it worth his while. A part of her felt sorry for Amy though, she seemed scared. She'd get over it eventually though or Nathan would kill her. There really wasn't many options here. After Bruno returned from the mail run, Turner went to find her carrying a box with Elena following behind.

It came?

Yes, finally.

Turner said with a nod of his head. Jasmine was excited and told them to come with her. They went to her room to get some other boxes she had under her bed and headed to Bruno's room. When he opened the door he was surprised to find the three of them there holding boxes.

What's all this?

Open them and find out.

Jasmine told him with a smile as she, Turner, and Elena set the boxes down on his bed. He gave them a look since he had no idea what they could have possibly gotten him. He was shocked once he opened the first box and found one of his old titles in it. He had pawned it long ago when he was gambling.

How did you-

You can find anything on the Internet.

Turner replied with a smile. Every since Jasmine had learned Bruno had pawned his old titles to pay for his gambling addiction, she had wanted to get them back for him. When Turner had came to the coven, she knew he would be able to track them down. It took them over a year to find them all. Bruno went through the boxes and found all his old boxing titles. He looked at three of them.

But I pawned these.

Yeah and now you have them back.

You earned them, you should have them.

How did you afford to get them all?

He was sure they were far more expensive to get back then what he had been willing to pawn them for. Jasmine shrugged.

Don't worry about.

It had taken the three of them pooling their money together to get the titles back. Some of the owners hadn't want to part with them. Of course anyone could be tempted for the right price.

Thank you.

Was all Bruno could say. He was humbled that Jasmine, Turner, and Elena cared enough about him to track down all his old boxing titles and get them back for him.

[Corey]

Nathan Betancourt

http://i287.photobucket.com/albums/ll145/sojournfan/nathanonly.jpg

While Bruno was humbled and happy that Jasmine, Turner, and Elena cared enough about him to take the time to get back all the boxing titles he had won and pawned so long ago, Nathan was angry. He had fun "initiating" the new girl to the coven but was put in a bad mood when he realized how close a certain anniversary was. Sia saw his mood when he left his room to head to the gym and asked.

Did Thierry lie about her skills?

No, I'm angry about something else.

What?

It's been almost 10 years to the day that lycan and his human killed my brother.

Oh and you are angry they are still alive.

Of course I am! They don't deserve to live.

Nathan growled and punched the wall. He hated Chase and Rachel so much. He often dreamed of killing them in very horrible ways.

Of course not. Perhaps I can help you.

How? The Lucianos Coven is still protecting them and I'm dead if I ever go home.

They are only protected if they stay home right? What if they took a vacation somewhere?

And how would I possibly know if they do?

Nathan replied in annoyance.

I know a man who is good at tracking down people.

Sia replied with a smile and Nathan asked her more about it. Sia told him about Josh Westin, a former client of hers when he was still serving the United States as a CIA agent. Josh ended up liking money far more then serving his country and went rogue. He had quite the reputation of tracking down people who didn't want to be found. Sia had used him to find a man who had ran all the way to South Africa to avoid paying her for months of services. He could find things even Turner could not find although his services did not come cheap. To finally get revenge on his brother's killers and any one else from his home country who wronged him was too good of an opportunity to pass up. Besides he'd just pay the Coven members less to pay for Josh's information. Sia gave him the last known information she had on Josh. Although he changed his info often since he was wanted by the Americans for being a traitor to his country. It was a start though and would help Turner track the man down.

[Corey]

Nathan Betancourt

http://i287.photobucket.com/albums/ll145/sojournfan/nathanonly.jpg

It took Turner about two weeks to track down Josh Westin. The man was careful and covered his tracks well but he forgot to hide a withdrawal in airport in France. Nathan was excited at the thought of finding his old enemies and getting his revenge. He enjoyed his lifestyle now and all the money and benefits it brought. However, knowing those who had ruined his life were still there living happily ever after and that angered him. He looked over at Amy.

You know French right?

He assumed she did since her accent sounded French but you never know.

Yeah...

She was tempted to ask him why but had learned quickly to not question Nathan.

Go teach Jasmine a couple of phrases.

Amy nodded her head and went to find Jasmine. She wondered why Jasmine would possibly need to know that but didn't ask. Amy was making the effort to just do her job and not anger Nathan. He had short fuse, so it wasn't easy. Nathan had to be careful with Josh. He might have went rogue but if the Americans caught him he might turn over any information he knew to save himself. It was better to have Jasmine and Bruno meet him and give Josh his cellphone number if he agreed to find some information for the right price.

[Jenny]

Jasmine Torres

http://i287.photobucket.com/albums/ll145/sojournfan/jasmineunderworld.jpg

Jasmine was nice enough to Amy as she was to the other new girls. Amy hadn't been there long enough for Jasmine to know if she was going to last or not. Still it was good that Amy knew French, it was making her useful to Nathan. Jasmine hadn't learned that language yet but quickly picked up a couple of phrases to use while she, Bruno, and Nathan headed to France. Josh Westin was taking a trip to Bordeaux. He must enjoy wine since it was considered the "world's wine capital". Sacha was left in charge of the coven again when they left on a plane for France to make a business deal with the former CIA agent.

[Jenny]

Jasmine Torres

http://i287.photobucket.com/albums/ll145/sojournfan/jasmineunderworld.jpg

Jasmine and Bruno were to meet with Josh to see if he was open to doing business with Nathan. Given the man's habit of betraying the people he worked for Nathan didn't want him to see his face in case he was caught and tried in America as a traitor. Nathan was wanted in a few cities in the United States and had no plans of going to jail there in case Josh decided to give up some secrets to save himself. In fact, Josh wasn't even to know Nathan's real name. As far as he knew Nathan was Micha Duran. Jasmine and Bruno were dressed in black as they headed into a restaurant that Josh was supposed to be. She looked at the picture of him on her cell phone and saw a man with blond hair sitting at a table in the corner drinking some wine as he looked over a newspaper. She and Bruno were carrying glasses of blood which helped them blend in here. Most people were drinking wine. She walked up to Josh's table with Bruno behind her and told him in Hebrew.

<< A slave shows his true character, not while he is enslaved but...>>

<<When he becomes a master.>>

Josh replied in Hebrew and looked up from his newspaper. The Israeli proverb was one he and Sia agreed on to talk business, although the woman before him was not Sia. To make sure no one would truly know their conversation, he kept up the Hebrew. He had learned it when he was in the CIA.

<<You are not Miss Levin.>>

<<She is business associate of my employer.>>

<<I see. Why are you here?>>

<<To talk business.>>

She asked if she sit next to him and Josh said it was okay. He was curious why she was here. Bruno chose to stand.

<<What type of business?>>

<<Miss Levin told my boss you were an expert on finding people.>>

<<I might be. How did you find me?>>

<<We have our ways. My boss is interested in having you find some "old friends" of his.>>

<<Why doesn't your boss track them down like he did me?>>

Maybe it was trap, it would be like the CIA to pretend they were sending him a job but instead trying to catch him. Jasmine replied that her boss would but he had many interests and couldn't devote all his resources into finding these people.

<<...Your boss realizes my services are not cheap.>>

<<Mr. Duran is prepared to offer you a great deal of money. In fact...>>

She had Bruno hand her a newspaper and gave it to Josh. Inside the newspaper was a bundle of money and a cell phone number written on the inside. Josh had learned not to show surprise but it was a great deal of money. And he loved money but first he'd have to make sure this wasn't a trap.

<<He's giving you this just to consider his offer. Contact him within 24 hours at this number if you want to work out a business deal. If we don't hear from you by then, then I apologize for wasting your time.>>

She told Josh goodbye and she and Bruno left Josh.

[Corey]

Nathan Betancourt

http://i287.photobucket.com/albums/ll145/sojournfan/nathanonly.jpg

Nathan was waiting for Jasmine and Bruno outside the restaurant.

Think he'll accept?

Most likely Boss. His eyes started to turn green when he saw the money.

Good, that's what I like to hear.

Nathan replied with a smirk. They would have to stay in Bordeaux for a day. They wouldn't be able to get a night flight back to Berlin until the next night. He was certain Josh would be calling him, few people would turn down a great deal of money. He told Bruno and Jasmine to go do whatever they wanted tonight, he was going to find someone to keep him "company" for the night.

[Jenny]

Jasmine Torres

http://i287.photobucket.com/albums/ll145/sojournfan/jasmineunderworld.jpg

Jasmine agreed with Bruno that Josh would most likely want to business with Nathan. He tried to hide it but she could see his reaction to the money being offered. When Nathan told them to do whatever they wanted, she was a little surprised but figured he was most likely picking up some poor unsuspecting woman. She looked over at Bruno when Nathan left and asked.

So what do you want to do?

We could go sight see. Do what normal people do when they are in a city they've never been to before.

Since they had joined Nathan's coven they had both been to many places but neither truly got enjoy them. It always about Nathan wanted and making sure his business was successful but hidden from local authorities. Jasmine smiled at Bruno's suggestion.

That sounds fun.

Bruno was glad she liked the idea and they headed off to see what night time in Bordeaux had to offer for two vampires.

[Jenny]

Jasmine Torres

http://i287.photobucket.com/albums/ll145/sojournfan/jasmineunderworld.jpg

Jasmine and Bruno thought it was fun sightseeing, to pretend that they were normal people. That they didn't do awful things for Nathan who might as well be a living devil. All because he "saved" them. They wished the night didn't have to end because soon reality would set back in and they would go back to following every one of Nathan's orders because they owed him. After spending the day in the hotel, Jasmine figured Josh wouldn't call. He only had a half hour left and they were getting ready to leave the hotel and head for the airport. Perhaps that was a good thing, some people wouldn't have to die just because Nathan commanded it.

[Corey]

Nathan Betancourt

http://i287.photobucket.com/albums/ll145/sojournfan/nathanonly.jpg

Nathan was beginning to think it was a wasted trip to France. Josh wasn't going to call and he wasted his money. He hated wasting money. Well if Josh didn't want to do business then he'd just have Turner find him again and Nathan would get his money back with some interest. They were heading out of the hotel when his cellphone rang.

Hello?

Micha Duran?

Who wants to know?

Josh Westin.

Nathan grinned. He headed down an alley to talk more privately. When Nathan asked why it took Josh so long to return his call, Josh replied he had to make sure the money and the offer were legitimate, a man could never be too careful these days. Nathan agreed with a laugh. They worked out a deal that for a large sum of money Josh would track down people from Nathan's home country who had "wronged" him ten years ago. Although Nathan didn't say why he wanted to find these people and Josh didn't ask. Josh took the names and said he'd call when he found things out. Nathan was pleased that coming to Bordeaux had been worth it after all. He was about to tell Jasmine and Bruno it was time to catch their plane, when he heard a woman giggle.

Hey Mister. You got any crack on you?

Nathan turned and saw a red haired woman leaning against a wall. She was wearing a dress that was far too short and her hair was quite a mess. She was probably getting off a high and thought that maybe Nathan was a drug dealer.

Not with me.

Nathan turned to leave and the woman grabbed his arm.

But you do? Because I really could use some. I'd pay you real good.

She replied with a grin and Nathan could tell that this woman would be attractive if she was cleaned up.

I have a plane to catch.

Oh come on!

She pouted as Nathan removed her hand from his arm and started to walk away.

I'll tell the cops!

Nathan stopped in his tracks and turned back towards her with anger in his eyes.

Tell them what?

That you were arranging a hit.

It was a business deal.

Right...Look make it easy on yourself. Give me some crack and I'll forget-

She screamed when Nathan grabbed her up her neck and threw her up against the wall.

I'll just kill you and then I won't have a problem!

You...you don't want to do that...I can do lots of good things!

Like what? Get high?!

She nodded her head. And Nathan was about to kill her when an idea came to him.

What's your name?

Cara Levesque. I'm a pretty famous model from Montreal-

Although Cara's modeling days were over since she liked drugs more. Nathan didn't really care who Cara was and told her so. He gave her two options either she could work for him testing his new drugs or she could die for overhearing his private conversation. The idea of having access to any drugs she wanted for free...It wasn't like Cara even had to think it over. Nathan turned her as soon as she agreed and said to Jasmine and Bruno.

Hopefully that plane will have an available seat.

[Jenny]

Jasmine Torres

http://i287.photobucket.com/albums/ll145/sojournfan/jasmineunderworld.jpg

Hopefully.

Jasmine replied although she and Bruno didn't really see Nathan's logic in allowing a drug user into the coven. What good would she possibly be? But Nathan wanted Cara in the coven and he always got his way. After returning home, it didn't take long for everyone to realize how annoying Cara was. Turner would tell Elena to give Cara lots of drugs so she'd pass out and they wouldn't have to hear her. No one liked her, except for Nathan, who for some reason kept her around. Maybe he was getting a kick out of her pissing off the rest of the coven, Jasmine thought. That was the only thing she could think of. At least the girls actually went out and made money. All Cara did was get high and follow Nathan around like a puppy. Jasmine couldn't wait until she was finally killed.

[Corey]

Nathan Betancourt

http://i287.photobucket.com/albums/ll145/sojournfan/nathanonly.jpg

Nathan did find it amusing that Cara was pissing everyone off. Part of the reason of keeping her around was for entertainment value, Nathan did have a twisted sense of humor. He also liked testing new drugs on her. He didn't care much about humans, but if sold bad drugs he would lose customers and in turn lose money. He couldn't have that and Cara testing the drugs first was better. Either he would know they were good enough to sell or she'd get sick and die. It was win, win to him. He was doing his favorite hobby of counting money when Josh called.

Josh I wasn't expecting to hear from you so soon.

I'm great at my job Micha.

Who did you find?

Shigure Ro and his sweet little daughter Arrah are living in Budapest, Hungary.

Nathan sneered when he heard the news. Arrah was Marisol's daughter, he learned that in Japan but he hadn't had a chance then to track her or her adoptive father down. Law enforcement was on to him and he had to move. He had a second chance to get Arrah and he wasn't going to waste it. He told Josh there would be a large deposit in his bank account for the information. After telling Turner to arrange the payment, he got the coven ready to move to Budapest. A move he loved even more when Josh contacted him not too long after they had arrived in Hungary to tell him Violet lived there as well. Finally after ten years he was going to get some revenge.