Beautiful Death: Based on Anita Blake, Vampire Hunter Series

[along came mary]

If you wish to join, please state what character you would like and a brief synopsis in the OOC thread provided below. Please limit all OOC comments/posts to that thread as well please. My thanks!

http://www.literotica.com/forum/showthread.php?s=&threadid=87068


The night was a bit cool and breezy. It was to be expected. It was October already and winter loomed in the not too far off distance. My Nikes crunched on the dry leaves underfoot, the tall grasses of the Mahoney’s poorly neglected family cemetery pulled at the legs of my jeans.

It was a new moon, so there was little light. A beam from a mini-flash I had attached to my zombie-raising bag illuminated the path back to my jeep. The blood from the chicken I had used for the ritual was drying from where it splattered on my cheek, itching a bit. I had some wet-wipes in the glove compartment that would take care of that. It wasn’t the best option, but it was good enough I could get home and take a warm shower.

I popped the back of the jeep and tossed the burgundy bag inside, the name Animators, INC. emblazoned on the side. It was the result of a bargain with Bert, my boss. He ran Animators, INC and thought that a little bit of advertisement would make for good business. He’d wanted to have the name stenciled on the side of my jeep at first. The fact that I balked at the idea is a bit of an understatement. My jeep remains ad free, yet I conceded on the bag, at least for now.

I slid behind the wheel and revved the motor to life. I snatched a wet-wipe from the glove compartment and wiped my face clean. I spotted Jessup Mahoney and his sister trudging their way to their car through my side window. Jessup raised his hand in farewell, his smile nearly beaming. His sister was pale with a bit of a greenish tinge. The idea to raise their grandfather to question the whereabouts of his will was definitely not her idea. Either that, or she had no idea what to expect. My bet he would be pulling over before they even hit the main road.

The raising hadn’t been difficult. The man was only three weeks in the grave. I had raised 100-year-old zombies in the past with not much more power than was required tonight. Bert knows I’m one of the best necromancers he has on staff. I just don’t think he realizes exactly how talented I am. Heck, I’m not really even certain about that myself. I definitely plan to keep Bert out of the know though. I’m not exactly sure what extremes he would go to for money and I’m not about to find out. Sometimes ignorance is bliss.

I had no more than pulled onto Olive that my beeper went off. I unclipped it from my belt and checked the number. “Shit,” I said.

I sighed and pulled off at the next gas station, near the payphone. The beeper went off again before I could get out of the car. Same number. I hopped out of the car and sprinted to the phone, digging a couple of quarters out of my pocket. I dialed Dolph’s number. Detective Rudolf Storr was head of the Regional Preternatural Investigation Team.

He answered on the first ring. “Anita?”
“Yeah, Dolph, it’s me. What’s going on?”
“A dead body.”
“A vamp attack?”
“He’s slashed up pretty badly, I’m not sure what did it. That’s why I need you.”
“Okay, Dolph. Where at?”
“This one is metro. Riverside district, Tucker Boulevard. You can’t miss us. Look for the crowd and flashing lights.”
“I can be there in about 10 minutes, depending on traffic.”

I was talking to empty air. Dolph had already hung up. He had an awful habit of doing that. Never saying goodbye and lately, I’d been picking it up. Just one more to add to my ever growing list I suppose.

I hopped back in the jeep, bucking the seat belt and headed toward the Riverside district. That area was booming with business as of late, vampire businesses in particular. The area was fairly safe to traverse during the daylight hours, but when the sun set, it was smart to be somewhat cautious.

I found Dolph exactly where they said they’d be, surrounded by a crowd and the flashing lights of the police vehicles and ambulance. I parked the jeep, got out and readjusted my jacket. Actually it was a navy button up long-sleeved shirt, thrown over a navy polo. Not only did the color mask the chicken blood from tonight’s earlier events really well, it also concealed the 9mm Browning Hi-Power lodged securely in my shoulder holster. Loaded with silver bullets of course. I never leave home without them. The long sleeves were handy as well to disguise the silver knives held by the wrist sheaths I had strapped to either arm. Last but certainly not least; the Firestar was tucked into the holster concealed in the front of my jeans. I had enough firepower and weapons to take down most anything that came my way. No threats as of yet, but considering the district I was in and dawn was quite a way a ways, it was prudent to use caution. And at the moment I’m feeling very, very prudish.

I ducked the yellow Police tape, spotting Zerbrowski and Dolph standing in an alley shooting off from the main street.
“About time you made it here, Anita. Hot date tonight?” Zerbrowski grinned as he participated in his favorite hobby of annoying me.
“Yeah, Zerbrowski. Most of my really hot dates consist of being splattered in chicken blood. Katie obviously needs to let you out more.”
“Cut it out, you guys.” Dolph stepped to the forefront, his 6’8” frame blocking the light from the street. “The body’s just behind those stacked boxes, Anita.” He handed me his flashlight and a pair of latex gloves and motioned for me to go on.
“No hints?” I asked.
“No. I don’t want to influence your opinion. You tell me.”

I sighed and stepped forward, pulling on the gloves before flicking on the torch. A bright beam of light illuminated the asphalt in front of me. I took a deep breath as I stepped around the corner, bracing myself for what I would find.

I’d seen worse, but that doesn’t mean that each murder scene doesn’t rip you apart a little bit, regardless of the severity of the mutilation. I was glad it was approaching winter, full summer heat has a way of ripening bodies rather quickly. Cool weather was a blessing of that there was no doubt. Still, I tried to take shallow breaths.

The body was that of a blonde male. Rather young, probably in his early 20’s, perhaps a bit younger. His face was untouched, smooth and beautiful, death glazed cornflower blue eyes stared upwards toward the night sky, glassy and immobile. The rest of his body was a mangled mess. His shirt and chest were ripped and slashed. Long claw marks traversed his torso and abdomen. His intestines spilled out in a thick, rubbery mass. For such trauma he should be swimming in a pool of blood, but there was merely a splattering of blood upon the brick wall and asphalt below. I traced my fingers along his neck, finding what I was searching for, but surprised all the same. Two small perfect punctures, fang marks. I shook my head as I stood up.

I walked back around the stack of boxes to where Dolph was standing.
“What did that?” He asked.
I took a deep cleansing breath, the air somewhat fresher here.
“It looks to be a coordinated effort, Dolph. There’s a definite bite mark on the right side of his neck, but the slashes are that of a were.”
Dolph’s eyebrows rose a bit in surprise.
“Both? Vamp and were?”
“That’s what it looks like to me. The fang marks are fresh, and with the lack of blood at the scene, it looks as if it could have been near simultaneously. I doubt the bite preceded the slashes by much.”
Dolph just stood there and stared, his brow furrowed.
“You still dating the Master of the City?” He asked, his back stiff, the derision in his voice barely masked.
“Yes.” I replied. Calmly even. I was proud of myself.
“I may need to speak to him about this.” Dolph said, none to happy with the prospect and none to happy with me by the expression on his face.
“He doesn’t really care to deal with the police, Dolph, but I’ll see what I can do.”
“You do that, Anita. And frankly, I don’t really care what he likes or doesn’t. If any of the vamps in his control are responsible for this, he’ll find himself much better off cooperating.”
I sighed. “I know, Dolph. I’ll talk to him. I’ll let you know what I find out.”
“You do that, Anita. Don’t let me find out you’re hiding anything from me.”

I took a deep breath and just nodded. I didn’t really intend to keep anything from Dolph, I just wasn’t ready to promise him anything until I had the chance to talk to Jean Claude. If one of his vamps were responsible, he most likely would insist on dealing with them himself. Although, he had managed to surprise me a few times in the past. One never knew with him, and that was the God’s honest truth.

 

[Lacewing]

Hanna Beshear

Hanna stared up at the sky as the others of the group she hung with this night talked arround a can with a fire burning inside She sat on the roof of her car enjoying a smoke.

Her harliquin eyes wtched the night as a human would though with extra werriness, the rumor was that creatures were getting out of hand and killing poeple bloodily.

Not that she cared. She liked to see anyone that could be a match against her armed with a switchblade.

She got bored with the crowd behind her and crawled in her car gunning the vehical and heading down the road.

THat's when she heard the screams behind her.


Hanna had more sense than to look back, than to do anything as she saw a shadow disconnect itself from other shadows near the place were the few peopel had lingered.

She lit another smoke and kept driving. Never even feeling giult.

One couldn't feel guilty in her position

 

[BLACK BART]

Jean Claude

The mist swirled, then gathered shape and I spoke from it's midst, smiling at her reaction as she spun.

"His name was Terrence Benoit, ma petit, and he was on an errand for me"

I had no need to look down, knowing she had instinctively drawn her pistol and held it to my chest, scant inches from where the silver cross many eons ago had burned it's mark.

"Have we fallen so far away, ma petit?" I teased her gently, my mind sending images to her of us in a place and position we both knew well.

"He died refusing to answer" I supplied to Anita "But refusing to answer whom is what I am more interested in."

Raising a hand I brushed the hair from her cheek, and felt the blood she missed cleansing as I did so.

"You should let me make an honest woman of you" I offered for the hundreth time, a game we played in affection, one which I already knew the answer to.

"I am what I want to be JC, and prefer to stay a woman, alive and honest."

"Then at least come to me before dawn, my love, so we may talk and share each other" I asked her gently, knowing it was in my powers to order her, but not wanting to do so. "And tell your Captain I will arrange for him to visit me as well"

Words were'nt needed to tell Anita how I felt, our minds were linked when I gave her the third mark, and she could read me as easily as I her, when I chose to let her...

"I will be waiting, ma petit" I endeared to her as I faded into the mist...

 

[Lady_Kit]

Natalia

Despite the damp chill in the air a line of would-be patrons had formed outside the doors to a club in the Riverside district of St Louis. A discreet brass plaque mounted by the entrance read "Night Moves". No further information was given or required. Those who knew of the club knew coveted its anonymity, those who didn't would never have understood its allure in any case.

Inside, the main lounge was beautifully decorated in the old world style with fine wood, velvets and plush oriental carpets. Deep couches and comfortable chairs invited patrons to linger over drinks or coffee.

Live entertainment could be found on most nights. Singers and musicians from every part of the country eagerly accepted invitations to perform and the rooms frequently were full of the sounds of blues, jazz or the sultry torch songs of days past.

The club was a gathering place for famous and the infamous. Those with money to spend on nocturnal pursuits found it possible to blend in with a crowd or be the center of attention, depending on their preference. A variety of refreshments were available to meet the most unique tastes.

The area beneath the club was the private domain of the owner, Natalia. A single door gave access to this area, and no one entered without invitation.

------------------

Moving through the noise and crowd I could feel the press of humanity against my skin and for a moment I allow my senses to open to the possibilities surrounding me. Despite having fed well upon rising, the heat of the bodies and the throb of a hundred beating hearts cause the hunger the flare, and I cast a hunters eye round the room. In my mouth, the coppery taste of fresh blood lingers, and I imagine the stir it would cause if I were to give into my more primitive nature and sample a few of the evening’s guests.

Pushing the urge aside, I make my rounds, smiling, nodding, and greeting regular guests by name as I pass their tables. Several members of my personal staff mingle with the club patrons and I am pleased to see that they are keeping everyone happy and in a festive mood. Happy people spend money, and although I have little need for additional wealth, it is more convenient to use modern currency when favors are needed from human officials.

At the bar, I take my customary place, and sigh in pleasure as I watch the night unfold.

 

[ariosto]

Richard


Richard Zeeman was late leaving the library but he had a treasure with him.
It was recording from a live performance of Oklahoma with Gordon MacRae and Dorothy Kirsten.
The vinyl was old and scratchy but that only added to his appreciation of it. He thought breifly of running it by Anita's but decided instead to spring it on her Sunday afternoon.

The light was failing fast and he was in a hurry to get to his new house.
Okay a double wide out in the county was no mansion, but he had 10 acres of land and a vision of things to come. He'd bought it on impulse, a personal place to escape and not even Anita knew of it yet.
He was keeping his apartment in the City for the time being. It would nearly break him financialy but he knew there were those who would not understand his total absence from the 'life' there.
JC would be pissed, of that he was quite sure but there were advantages...

Another police car tore by him, siren wailing into the cool autumn night. That made three...

Richard's curiosity got the better of him and he turned the corner after them.

Fool!...this is no business of yours...keep a low profile right...yeah right.

Ahead the road was blocked by a police cordon and it seemed most of the SLPD were milling around behind it.
He eased the old VW camper to the curb and got out.
Something was wrong he could sense it...almost smell it.
He approached cautiously his eyes focusing and refocusing on the movements of the crowd and the police. He was looking for someone and in a few moments he found her. The trim compact figure of Anita Blake right in the center of it all.
He stopped just before the yellow police line and waited.

 

[Lacewing]

Hanna got out of her car and smoked a cigerrett, the screams she left behind still fresh in her ears she sighed and blew a puff of smoke and stared at the cloudy night sky. Maybe she should go find a club to bust up, or go home. Not like the flea bitten place she shared with her dirty filthy minded old man was any better than the street.

Hell she might go get another tattoo or buy a another pack of cigeretts.

 

[along came mary]

Anita

A sound made me turn. I whirled around; the knife sheathed on my wrist appeared in my hand without much forethought. The cool silvered edge pressed against the alabaster flesh of Jean Claude, creating a small indention to the side of his cross-shaped scar.

“Jean Claude.” My breath caught in my throat for a moment as I stepped back, sheathing my blade. “I was just coming to hunt you down.” My grin widened a bit as his brows lifted over startling sapphire blue eyes. My gaze traveled the length of his body, taking in his appearance. He was a beautiful, of that there was no doubt. His skin shone like alabaster in the light cast from the street lamps. His curling black hair spilled across the crimson shirt that he wore. His pants were made of gleaming black leather, so snug, so form fitting that they looked for all accounts that he had been poured into them. Spit-shined black leather boots complimented and completed the outfit.

It took all I had not to throw myself into his arms. Jean Claude practically oozed sex appeal. His voice alone was nearly orgasmic.

I stared up at that handsome, smiling face. “You tease me with only bits of information, Jean Claude. I will find you before dawn, but if I don’t get answers to my questions, thorough ones as well, you will be sorely disappointed in my visit.”

He laughed, and again his voice rolled through my mind like a velvet caress, sumptuous, sensual. “You will have what answers I can give, ma petite. I will be waiting.”

He disappeared as quickly as he appeared. A blink of an eye and he was gone. It was disconcerting to say the least.

I turned and proceeded back to my Jeep. Knives sheathed, guns holstered. Well, at least for the moment. Out of the corner of my eye I spotted a familiar form. I did a double take, obvious as it were. “Richard?” I veered off course and made my way towards him, smiling in surprise. “What are you doing down here this time of night? Don’t you have classes tomorrow?”

 

[Lady_Kit]

Natalia

“Mistress,” a hesitant voice says from behind me. “Mistress, a man wishes to speak with you. He says that he is with the police. Official business, he says.”

Turning, I face Emily, the newest member of my little family. Looking into her face, I can recognize her fear even without the aid of enhanced senses. It is the police she fears and not me, so I smile gently before replying.

Yes, I heard him, Not at all subtle. Is he? Ask the good detective to wait in my office. I’ll be in momentarily.

Listening from across the room as Emily delivers my message to the waiting officer, I frown at his reply.

“Wait in her office? This is police business. Who does she think she is? You go back and tell her that she can present herself to me now, or down town in the morning.” His voice rises as he tries to intimidate the young woman delivering my message.

Moving with the preternatural speed and silence of my kind I step before the blustering man before he can further upset my staff and customers.

Detective, I’m sure that won’t be necessary. I’m always willing to cooperate with members of your department.

Watching as he takes a startled step back, and unconsciously moves his hand to the butt of his service revolver; I realize that his posturing is an attempt to disguise his fear. Sure that he is of the opinion that any non-human is a menace to society; I decide that discretion is called for and offer my hand.

I am Natalia, the owner of Night Moves. Perhaps we could conduct our discussion in the privacy of my office?

Standing before him, dressed in a deep ruby gown, with a low décolletage and bare shoulders, dark hair pulled back into an simple twist, I am the picture of understated elegance. Normally, my appearance is well received, but this man looked at me as if I wore sackcloth and ashes.

“No,” comes the terse reply, “we’ll speak here.” Disdaining the extended hand the boorish man moves to a nearby table.

“There’s been some trouble near here, and I want to know if you know anything about it. While you’re at it, you can tell me where you’ve been all night, too.” He says bluntly.

Am I to assume I am a suspect in a crime? If so, perhaps I should call my attorney. Otherwise, I suggest you become a little more pleasant to a citizen who is willing to assist as best she can.

I reply, allowing a bit of fang to show to emphasize my irritation with his rude behavior.

“Look you…you…you can’t talk to me like that, there are laws against what you people do, you can’t just take over people.” He says, referring to the laws against “rolling” humans.

Believe me, Detective; I am well aware of the laws. You should also be aware that your behavior borders on harassment, and that, too, is against the law. You are upsetting my staff, my customers and more importantly, me. Such behavior is against my civil rights, as I’m sure His Honor the Mayor would point out to you if he had not already left.

Seeing his surprise at the mention of the Mayor, I continue with an inward smile.

Let me make this simple for you, since you seem to be so anxious to get right to the point. I have not left my club this evening. I have been here since the doors opened and any number of my guests will be willing to vouch for my presence. Including the Mayor, and his wife. I have no knowledge of the death you’re investigating. Now, if you have no further questions?

Stuttering, as he tried to regain his composure, the angry human offered a final question, thinking that he had caught me in a lie.

“If you’ve been here all evening, how do you know that I’m investigating a death?” He asked smugly.

Smiling, I allowed gleaming fangs to show behind crimson lips, and gave a short chuckle.

I know, because, as you are well aware, I am a vampire. I can smell the death on your clothing. Hear the sound of sirens in the distance. And because your chief was dining with the Mayor when the call came.

Goodnight Detective. Emily, see the officer out, please.

Rising to my full height. I walked away from the angry man, knowing that I had added him to my already long list of enemies. Without a second glance I moved to a familiar face across the room, putting some needed distance between my back and the hatred of the departing detective.

 

[BLACK BART]

Jean Claude

"The police will be persistent in this one, Natalia" I warned gently as I moved thru the crowd, having "felt" the mind of the enraged detective. "There is much more than a few errant feedings behind this"

I had entered the "Night Moves" thru the front door, placing a fog in the mind of the waiting mortals as I brushed thru them and stood quietly as I observed Natalia "escorting" the detective from her fine establishment.

"I have something I want you to "feel" for me, Natalia, I believe it is of some importance to what the police are after"

I had as all vampires a sense that allowed us to "feel" the previous owners touch on inanimate objects, but trusted in Natalia's finely honed instincts much more.

"Would it be presumptuous of me to ask that we look at it in more private quarters?"

 

[ariosto]

"I smelled trouble."
Richard laughed and twitched his nose.
Anita grinned,
"Stop it you animal!...Seriously there's been a death...a murder..."
She looked at him, her eyes full of trouble and took his arm.
"Come on with me I want you to see this."

Dolph blocked the corpse with his huge frame.
"Who the hell is this Anita?"
Richard's eyes met the big detectives on an equal footing even though the man had more than 6 inches on him.
"He's a friend. Someone who might help. I trust him."

"Let him through, Christ what's the fuckin' difference."
Zabrewski uncovered the corpse for Richard to see and he almost threw up.
Anita squeezed his hand.
"Richard do you know him?" she whispered.
He shook his head.

"Pretty huh?"
Zabrewski and Dolph were both staring at him.
waiting...

"I unh...don't know him. Sorry I can't help.
Poor guy..."
He sid lamely and walked away.
Anita caught him at the police line.

"Ok Richard I saw your face. What is it?"
He leaned back against the grimy brick wall of a deserted warehouse and closed his eyes.
"A 'Were's' involved. Not long ago at all..."
His eyes opened and once again seemed to take on a glittering predator's look.
"There's a rogue out there who kills for fun and he has a partner."
They both knew what the marks on the victim's throat meant. The potential of such an alliance was frightening.

 

[Lacewing]

Hanna sat on the roof of her car staring over the water and the lights, she found herself in a different part of town doing none of the things she thought of doing.

Screams of those she left behind still in her ears like the screams of her mother when Da'.....

She shook her head and puffed out her last ciggerett tossing it over the water she got back into her car gunned the engine and headed for the loca mini mart for another pack.

Once there she made her perchase and watched a pair of people talking in a corner, something about them seemed weird, and they seemed to be argueing, but then alot of peopel argued.

She shrugged off the feeling of 'weird' and just left like she always did. Driving down the road looking for a little excitement before morning came.

She spotted a club. The same feeling of 'weirdness' came from there and she stratched at an area on her shoulder, old scares but nothing major.

Maybe she'd go in and see how long til she can get thrown out, the clientell were certainly the more upper class. Her with her spiked and died hair and 'punk' look would stand out, especially since she was a hieght of nearly any man as well.

She grinned getting another ciggerett and lighting up then got out of the car and made her way intot he club.

Perhaps this would be fun after all.

 

[Lady_Kit]

Natalia

An iron fist in a velvet glove, that was the way the master of the city ruled. Unlike most masters, he seldom resorted to brute force, but found other ways of exerting his control over the vampires within his domain. Not that we did not fear him; a master is a powerful being, and Jean Claude was no exception. I had a healthy respect for power, having learned when I was newly made that even the undead are susceptible to torture and pain. That Jean Claude used other means to rule the city had earned my loyalty, and my admiration.

It would be my pleasure to help you Jean Claude. Let us go into my office were we can be more comfortable.

I cast a thought to Darren, the bartender, letting him know of my intentions, and led the way to the carved door that divided my private domain from the public area. We made a striking couple, and more than one head turned to observe our progress across the room. Although we could have moved without notice, it was a measure of our disdain for those present that we did not bother. We could be like that, the older vampires. We often found the humans to be of no more notice than the cattle in the field. It was for the best, really, humans were such transient beings. I had learned that a measure of distance was easier than the pain of watching a beloved friend or companion wither and die.

Stepping through the doorway was like moving into another century. Priceless antiques decorated the office, treasures collected during decades of wandering the world. The mantle held a group of Faberge eggs, some unknown, all unique and original. Inviting Jean Claude to join me in the comfortable chairs before fireplace. I look at him expectantly.

Jean Claude, you know you have only to desire it and any help I can offer is yours. What is this object you would have me examine?

 

[BLACK BART]

Jean Claude

"I found this clasped in the hand of a mortal" I told Natalia "He was in my employ and on an errand of minor importance"

I had told her the truth, but not all of it, knowing she would be curious but refrain from asking the entire story unless it became necessary.

"I'd like you to "read" it for me, and tell me who the owner of it is"

I handed her a silver cross, one unique but of a design I had seen on similar artifacts. Carved into the silver was the exquisite lines of two bodies intertwined, as if being lovers, but under closer scrutiny it became obvious that the female figure was doing more than just kissing her male partners neck...

"And tell me if you sense if the owner is near us?"

 

[Lady_Kit]

Natalia

Taking the cross from Jean Claude, I pressed it between the palms of my hands. I smiled faintly, thinking that the sight of two vampires casually handling such an object would surprise most mortals. The truth is that it is not the object that harms us, but the faith of the owner that we cannot endure.

Closing my eyes, I began to sense the life of the object. As always, the history was jumbled, some from the current owner, some from owners past. Strong personalities seemed to linger longest, and sometimes if an object was created with powerful emotions, I could even sense the maker.

The cross is old by human standards, but not ancient. It is a mockery of the true cross, meant to taunt, I think.

It is one of many…a key…no, a token of identification. A way to recognize the wearer to his fellows…a cult perhaps…or an order?

It was a gift, from a woman, she is not the maker, but she is powerful, I still can feel her energy. Her location is hidden from me, the object was given to the wearer elsewhere, in a ceremony.

The death of Jean Claudes servent pulls me in, and I feel his last moments. Images of teeth and claws tear through my mind, a beast and it’s master. Hot burning pain, ripping open my chest, maniacal laughter, fangs at my throat, my hand grasping, pulling at my attacker, holding the cross, my lifeblood flowing out, hearing the final pounding of my heart…and a name…. “Jean Claude”

Jean Claude! I say with a start, dropping the cross and opening my eyes in surprise.

Your man is dead. The killers spoke your name to him before they attacked. You are known to them. Beware, my friend, I think that this is not the last time we shall see their work.

Retrieving the cross from the floor, I return it to the Master of the City.

I am sorry, but I can see nothing else.

 

[Lacewing]

Hanna smiled to herself as she stepped into the 'club' All these rich causually dressed middle to upper class people opening stared at the short hair tall 'punk' that entered their domain. Like a wolf on the prowl she cruised in and smiled to herself loving the 'scean' she caused. Just coming to a place like this the way she was dressed and acted. They couldn't keep her out, they could austrasize her all they want but she was here to shock and stun. Then make off with as much loot as she could and run before they knew what hit them.

She'd always leave a peice of 'evidece' on one of them of course. Never could they prove she was the theif. Since she'd leave the stuff in some ally. She never kept it. Why bother? Stuff can be tracked and she herself wasn't a thief.

She just liked to thumb her nose at sociaty and it's 'rules'

So hanna found a place at the bar and sat smirking to herself as some moved away and the murmers started.

She wanted to unwind, now to see if she could bring these 'rich folk' down to her level

 

[Imoen]

Belle Morte

http://alystin.homestead.com/files/BelleMorte.jpg


She hovered in mid air for a split second before landing gracefully upon the rooftop. The blood red neon sign of Night Moves cast its warm glow upon her face, easing the cool paleness of her complexion. She walked to the edge of the building that lies directly across from the popular nightspot, glancing down at the entrance.

The one she sought was there. Although she was masked and mentally shielded, she could sense him clearly, his aura slipped through her senses with delicious warmth, like that of a familiar and oh so welcomed caress. His strength and talents had grown tremendously since she had had him last. He had come into his own, A Master of the City no less. Her cold heart swelled with pride. Oh yes, he had been hers once, and she was determined he would be again. A slow, seductive smile eased across her lips, exposing a hint of wickedly sharp, pearly fang.

“Soon, mon précieux, very soon.” She whispered into the slight breeze, sending the familiar endearment into the night to the very mind of the one she sought. A delightful burst of laughter escaped as she felt his shock of recognition. In the blink of an eye and with only a near indiscernible rush of wind, she was gone, her laughter echoing in air.

 

[along came mary]

Anita

I walked back to my Jeep cursing myself the while. I should never of have involved Richard. I darted a quick glance to him as he walked along side me. He’d been insistent to walk me to my vehicle. Always the gentleman, never mind the fact I was probably better equipped to take on anything trouble that came our way that he was.

He caught my glance. “What is it?”

“I should have never asked you to look at that body, Richard. That was wrong of me. Very wrong.” I propped a hip against the Jeep, laying my hand on his crossed arm.

He was silent for a moment then visibly shook himself, as if trying to rid himself of the memory.

“I don’t want you to do this anymore, Anita. It’s too dangerous. You’re involving yourself in things that aren’t your responsibility.”

He stood there so noble, so just in his argument, his shoulders thrust back, spine ramrod straight, so breathtaking gorgeous that it nearly caused me physical pain the want I had of him. I hated him and loved him in that very moment.

“We’ve gone over this all before. You know I can’t do that. I am what I am, Richard. Not you or anyone else can change that.”

I stepped away from him and walked to the driver’s door.

“I have to see Jean Claude tonight...”

I saw the hint of anger flicker across Richard’s face.

“The man that was killed was one of his errand boys. I need to talk to him.” I explained.

I opened the door, peering around the frame before hopping inside.

“Do you need a ride, Richard?”

 

[ariosto]

"No thanks, I'll walk. It's not that far."
The wall had come up again. Every time she mentioned Jean Claude's name it came up.
"You asked me to look at the body remember and I can tell you now what you don't want to hear..."
He paused,
"Fuck it. Give my regards to JC. I'll try and find out what I can. Maybe we can touch base this weekend."
He gave her a light kiss on the cheek and walked away.

It was painful to keep seeing her like this, but he was caught in a web that kept them very close. He loved her desperately but was forced into contact with both of them...salt in an open wound.

The VW van chugged into life and Richard pulled away from the curb. The events of the night had
soured his enthusiasm for seeing his new place and instead he drove the short distance to his apartment. The one that was so full of memories for him. He had no choice, there were calls to be made and as yet the trailer had no phone.

 

[BLACK BART]

Jean Claude

"I am sorry, but I can see nothing else." Natalia apologized softly, her tone of failure and expected punishment reminding me of how the previous "Master" had ruled.

"You have given me enough, my precious one, do not worry" I whispered to her with my voice, my hand cupping her high cheek.

My thoughts were on her words of warning as I replayed them in my mind, fitting the peices together and a voice interjected itself into my mind...

“Soon, mon précieux, very soon.” The familiar but age old voice laughed to me....and I tilted my head as I recognized it, then felt it slip away.

"SHE is here" I spoke outloud in a hushed tone, still tasting the flavor of my old lover...and master.

"Who, Jean Claude?" Natalia questioned softly a perplexed look crossing her fine features.

"The owner of the cross, my precious one...Belle Morte has returned...to MY city"

A large peice of the puzzle had just fallen in place, the rest I could imagine accurately as I leaned forward and kissed the cool lips of the "Night Moves" owner, thanking her.

"You must feed, my precious one" I told her gently, her cool lips telling me of hunger and the beginning of weakness "I will need you at your strongest ALWAYS in the coming future"

 

[Lacewing]

Hanna was pleased with the effect she had. Already she had a pocket of cash she ripped off one lady. Leaving everything but her money and merrily buying herslf a drink. Several infact. She even ought one for the lady she stole it off of when the woman couldn't buy herself a drink because she'd ben robbed.

And no one even knew.

Oh it was fun though she was starting to get bored with just playing with the loosers. She wanted some excitement. A fight would be nice but there were a bunch of mice. Too shocked by her apearance to be able to react to anything other than as frighten rabbits.

What a dump.

 

[Lady_Kit]

Anita

I sighed as I drove away from Richard. I hated to make him worry, but somehow he had to learn that being an animator wasn’t just what I did, it was part of who I was. Besides, where does someone who turns furry on a regular basis get off being critical of my life? It wasn’t as if his was so calm and safe. He just had to understand! Smacking the steering wheel with the palm of her hand, she lets vents a bit of frustration on the helpless plastic.

The exhaustion of the earlier ritual seeps into her body as she heads home. Men, human, vamp, and were, were just too damned much trouble. Maybe I’ll get a girlfriend, she thinks. Then, shakes her head as she envisions cooking, make-up and pantyhose. Yuck! No, probably better to stick with men, at least they don’t seem to mind her hardware; she sure felt more comfortable with her Browning than with a baking pan. Most women would be thrilled to have the attention of guys like Jean Claude & Richard, of course, those same women would probably run screaming the first time either one revealed his darker nature.

Jean Claude…! Shoot, I was supposed to see him after I left the crime scene. Must be more tired than I thought. Breaking sharply, she turns the jeep around and heads back toward the river.

“No rest for the wicked, Anita.” she says into the silence.

Driving past Night Moves, she feels the familiar touch of Jean Claudes’ presence.

“Join me inside, ma petit, we have things to discuss.” His mental voice is like warm honey, and she feels the pull of his marks, as if to reinforce the command of his will. Pulling the jeep into a vacant parking space. She grimaces at the picture she must present.

“Oh, well, I hope Natalia understands if I spook the paying guests.” Climbing from the car, she heads for the door to the club.

 

[BLACK BART]

Jean Claude

"Natalia, I've invited my human servant to join us, I need her to be aware of what I've found out"

I felt Anita approaching the club, still in her black mood, but looking forward to the turmoil her entrance would make.

"And I suggest you alert your employees... she is in a dark mood" I warned, knowing Natalia would contact her "people".

Settling myself in a chair I waited, extending my mind outward for Anita's entrance, and to see if i could sense where Belle Morte had gone...

 

[Lady_Kit]

Natalia

"You must feed, my precious one" Jean Claude said gently, "I will need you at your strongest ALWAYS in the coming future"
Jean Claudes voice brought me back to myself with a start. My mind had drifted, and I realized how fatigued, I had become. The touch of his lips was a sweet refreshment, and I knew that he had offered a bit of strength with that touch.

As if summoned, Jacob, my newest foundling, entered quietly and knelt at my feet. Raising velvet brown eyes to mine, he smiled softly, and tilted his head, offering his smooth throat. I touched the soft auburn hair, brushing it back from his forehead. Putting my hand to his chin, I raised his face to gain his attention and chided him gently.

Sweet child, you must not be so eager to give your blood to a predator. Your life is precious, never forget that.

“Mistress, have I displeased you? What have I done?” Tears quickly filled his eyes, and I saw again the wasted and abused young man that Jacob once had been. Emily had found him wandering the night streets. He had been cruelly used by one of the wolf clans and cast out to die. I had taken him in, as I had so many others over the years. Now, he was mine to protect.

Smiling, lest he think me unhappy with him, I shook my head and gazed into his face, letting my power wash over him. As his eyes drifted closed, I touched my lips to his throat. My tongue touched his skin, tasting him, prolonging the moment. I felt the steady throbbing of his heart. The tender vein lying just below the surface beaconed. My hunger built, riding me like a wave, and I could wait no longer. Jacob moaned, feeling my passion for his blood, as he would feel the desire of a living woman. He gasped as my fangs pierced the skin, sinking into the vein, and I felt the warm flow running into my waiting mouth. My body tightened as I drank; his life so warm and ripe spilled into me, renewing me, making me whole again.

The dizzying sensation of feeding was always so hard to control, even after so many years, so many innocents, and so much blood. In the early days, when I was young, and my control fragile, I had killed more often than not. Then the passion rode me, controlled me; now, unless starved, I could stop at will, and so I did. It pleased me that I did not kill indiscriminately.

Looking up into the heated eyes of the Master, I felt his power as he watched my feeding. Showing my respect, I stretched out my hand, offering my bared wrist to him. As Master of the City, he could have claimed Jacob, or any of my servants, could have claimed my own blood if he had wanted.

Smiling, he took my hand and brushed my wrist with a light kiss, before releasing me.

“Always proper, eh, Natalia? I have no need to taste your blood to know of your respect. Send the boy away, now, there is work yet to be done.

Natalia, I've invited my human servant to join us, I need her to be aware of what I've found out. And I suggest you alert your employees... she is in a dark mood"

Of course, Jean Claude. Emily will see to everything. Touching her mind with soft strokes, I reach out to Emily….

A guest approaches, it is Anita Blake, the human servant of Jean Claude. Greet her properly, and make her welcome among us. The Master of the City will see her in my office. Inform the others of her arrival.

Even knowing that her mistress cannot see her, Emily gives a slight nod. “Yes, mistress, I will do as you bid.”

Moving through the crowed club, Emily watches carefully for the one they call “Executioner.” As she watches, she notices a young woman sitting at the bar. Punk hair and an aggressive attitude have made the other patrons uncomfortable, and the young woman sits alone. Something about her isn’t right, and Emily makes a note to investigate further when the opportunity presents itself.

Now, she has other duties. Seeing their “guest” arrive, Emily moves to greet Anita.

“Good evening, Miss Blake. I am Emily, servant to Natalia. I am to bring you to Jean Claude, he waits in the office. Please, follow me.”

The door opens, and Anita Blake enters my office.

Hello Anita…

Emily, see to Jacob please. He will need rest and refreshment. As Emily and Jacob leave, Anita greets Jean Claude and takes the chair opposite him at the fireplace.

 

[BLACK BART]

Jean Claude

Anita entered the room, her eyes flashing with a mixture of erotic sensuality and mischievousness, and I rose from my chair.

"Good Evening, "Ma Petit" I greeted her, watching the slight flash of annoyance cross her face at my term of endearment.

"I am pleased to see you came" I told her with all sincerity

"Did I have a choice, JC?" She retorted, her face serious, her eyes flickering in amusement "After all, when the Master of the City calls, who dares disobey"

She was putting me in my place...placing the distance between us at least in public that she preferred, I knew...

"And who dares to disrespect that same Master, but you? "Ma Petit" I replied, my nostrils flaring as I pronounced the endearment once again.

"And your second question is the reason I "called" you here, NOW" I continued, a slender tendril of steel creeping into my voice. "To discuss who is in MY city and what WE are going to do about it"

I held the back of the chair as she seated herself, then returned to my own...my mind focusing on the promised discussion as it fought off the reactions from my body and Anita's nearness to it.

"Belle Morte has returned...To claim what she sees as hers"

I turned my eyes to Natalia, my eyes flashing as she caught the "essence of ardor" that emanated from my body, and with a smile I repressed it, not apologizing for her uncontrollable reaction I had started.

"Belle Morte was my mistress" I informed her, wanting Natalia to know the truth...not just whispered rumors, and knowing that Anita already shared this knowledge, as she shared my blood...

"She was the one who created me...as her first, her lover...but in time it became obvious she regarded me as just another plaything...a possession"

The memories flooded back to me of her love...her erotic being. And her cruelty hidden behind her immortal beauty, and I felt a flash of jealousy emanate from both women as I shared those memories with them.

"Jean Claude, You need not share these with us...with Natalia" Anita spoke as she shook off the effects of my lust and passion with my previous Mistress.

"Yes, I do.... ma petit" I corrected "For what she returns for is me, and I will not go with her..alive."

 

[Lady_Kit]

Anita

Well, she can’t have you! You’re mine…er…I mean, you have a place now, and she is part of your past.

JC looked amused at my slip, and I knew that it pleased him that I considered him to be mine. Not that he would ever feel that I had any rights where he was concerned, but he did so like to be the center of attention.

“I have heard of Belle Morte, she is of the Council. Is she not?” Natalia asked.

As vamps went, Natalia wasn’t a bad sort. I knew she took good care of her servants, and often rescued those humans, vamps and other sorts who were too weak to protect themselves from the many predators of our city. She was just so damned refined. She made me feel like a K-Mart dress in a closet full of Valentino gowns. Obviously, she and JC had a lot in common, besides being immortal. I hated to feel inadequate, and more than that, I hated to feel jealous! Both emotions made me cranky, and my tone when I spoke to JC revealed my discomfort.

What makes you think shes here for you? I said, to JC.

“She left a calling card with my late employee.” He replied, as he held out the silver cross.

JC, you took that from the crime scene! Do you know what Dolph will do to me when he finds out? Jesus, he already thinks that I’m cavorting with the Devil. Please don’t give him any more reason to cause either of us trouble.

Never one to hide my emotions, I let JC have the full measure of my anger with him. In my nikes, it's hard to be intimidating, but I have it my best shot as I glared at him. Of all the arrogance, did he just think he could do as he pleased? Didn't he ever plan? How was I going to help him if he pissed off the cops? They'd never tell me a thing if they thought I couldn't keep my mouth shut.

“She is right Jean Claude, you must be circumspect in your actions. If, as you say, Belle Morte is here for you, she will use any advantage to get to you. Including the elimination of those who would assist you.” Natalia pointed out.

The look on JC’s face told me that he had not considered this possibility. He had been without emotional attachments for a long time and he had forgotten that they come with responsibilities.

Now, he not only had the city to protect, but one petite necromancer, and a refined Russian Vampire. His existance was about to get very interesting, not to mention complicated. Kind of made a guy just want to stay in his crypt all night, I thought with a slight grin.