The Dark Before the Dawn (Closed for Gladiator)

[isolemnlyswear89]

Her cell phone buzzed on the counter beside her hand and she glanced at the incoming text message.

Notification: Your bank account is overdrawn. Your current balance is $-34.56.

Rory heaved a sigh and shoved the phone away from her line of sight. A loud snore came from in the living room where her boyfriend, Curt, was "napping" in his recliner. More like passed out, drunk. He had lost his job several months ago and had made no efforts to find another. Their rent was overdue, the utilities were close to being shut off, their refrigerator was barren, and now their checking account was overdrawn. Life sucked.

Rory got up and walked past Curt, rolling her eyes at the open bag of chips balanced on his large belly, crumbs mixed into the smattering of chest hair. What a pig. She walked into the bedroom that they rarely shared. Curt usually passed out on the recliner before he made it to bed.

I need to make some money, she thought to herself. She picked up her phone and texted Aimee, her best friend since elementary school. A lengthy conversation ensued, as they discussed what job options she had. Not many that would make the money that she needed.

An honor student in high school, who had focused intensely on her passion for dance, Rory had graduated in the top 5% of her class and gone on to move out of state with her high school sweetheart, Curt. Curt had received a college scholarship on his football skills, but had flunked out within a year. Needing to make ends meet, Rory had dropped out as well. Their life had spiraled from there. They had each worked menial jobs, barely getting by, and now it was getting depressing.

Her phone buzzed again, signaling a text from Aimee.

What about dancing?

Glancing in the floor length mirror, she eyed her reflection. Her long, straight, auburn hair was badly in need of a trim, but it gleamed, even in the dim trailer light. Her body was still toned and tight, thanks more to good metabolism than any effort on her part, and her ass and breasts were both still the envy of many women around. She could pull it off, she was sure.

But was that really what she wanted to resort to?

 

[The_gladiator]

“Either police your territory or be replaced.” The words of Vladimir Rang in Nicholas’s head as he drove the knife into the man in the dark alleyway. The knife slid away out of sight and he stepped over the body casually kicking it out of his way. Straightening his long coat, Nicholas stepped back out into the crowds of the busy street. He slid a hand into the pocket of his tight jeans and pulled out his iPhone, texting for a cleanup crew. His victim had been a serial killer, but Nicholas did not feel like having the human police involved. Things were always easier policing their ranks before the coming out, before vampires had told the humans of their existence, and become “legal” citizens with all the rights and responsibilities included with that dubious honor. This had caused some leaders such as Nicholas to loosen their grip on their people, as a way to test human authority. As he suspected the fools were not up to the task of policing vampire kind. The drawback was that Nicholas had come under the scrutiny of the sentinels, and not just any Sentinel, Vladimir Himself, their leader. The vigilante justice of their people for more years than Nicholas could count the Sentinels had been Judge, Jury and executioners of vampire kind.

It was rare for one sentinel to be criticized by another, but that’s what had happened. Nicholas was technically not a sentinel any longer; he had revoked his title and responsibilities, instead opting to settle down in this Midwestern City. Sentinels revoked all rights to hold land, to lead a Vampire Kiss. Nicholas was tired of the constant travel. He had loved his life, but at a certain point, the constant movement, the never ending killing took its toll. He wasn’t sure that he agreed with Vlad’s assertion that he’d gone soft and forgotten his duty, for once a sentinel always a sentinel, even if he could no longer be called on to travel widely policing vampire kind. Vlad had simply meant that Nicholas knew better, should run a tighter ship than he was currently running. However all that being said, Nicholas knew there was at least some truth to it. Hence dispatching yet another serial killing vampire that the humans did not know how to deal with. The night swallowed Nicholas and he was gone.


************************

It was some time later that evening that Nicholas stood glaring down at Marcus, the manager of Life after Death, one of the many businesses that Nicholas found himself in the position of running, establishments that he had inherited when he had taken over as Master of the city, a role that he was still unsure he wanted. However, the story of how He became master of the city and why he stayed master is a long one and one perhaps for another time. Life after Death was a popular nightclub/gentleman’s club/casino, it did a little of everything. It was commonly known to be a play on both the fact that it catered mostly to the undead and other supernatural populations, but also a play on the Iron Maiden classic live album “Live after Death” The club specialized in featuring live music for their dancers, not just dance beats spun by a DJ. In his traveling days, Nicholas had played here more times than he could count; it was a little odd to him to be in the position of owning it now. All these thoughts flitted through his head as he continued to glare at Marcus.

The man fit every description of a smug, rich, in titled, unctuous, snob, and that was on a good day. However he was generally a good businessman, hence Nicholas not simply firing the arrogant ass. He wasn’t even moved by Nicholas’s glare, one of the few who wasn’t, slimy bastard. “Why do you need my opinion on the new hires?” Nicholas asked fighting to keep his voice calm, hard, he wished he did blank voice as well as Vladimir, and to most he was quite scary, but to Marcus he couldn’t pull it off, the man just got under his skin too much. He wasn’t particularly pleased with the fussy response. “You hire who you think best, and if I have an objection to it I’ll let you know.” With that Nicholas turned on his heal to return to playing with the band. A traveling musician had always been Nicholas’s cover as a Sentinel, his reason for moving from town to town when he did not want outed as the vigilante he was. Now that he was stable and staying in one city, he found that the guitar was something he still refused to give up, it was in his soul.

 

[isolemnlyswear89]

Rory took a final glance in the mirror. Her red silk top hugged her perky 36D breasts, and stopped about two inches short of the leather miniskirt that fit her hips and ass like a glove. The black stilletos made her legs look a mile long- a necessity when you're only 5'3. Her hair swung loose, down her back, almost to her ass, and her eye makeup was heavy, enhancing her beautiful green eyes, giving her a sultry evening look. Not bad, she thought. Not bad at all.

She sashayed out into the living room and watched as Curt's eyes traveled over her. Where'd you say you were going again? he asked.

To an interview, Rory replied. It's at that place, Life After Death. I hear the servers there make really good tips.

Ok, so she wasn't exactly interviewing for a waitress position... She had heard they needed dancers, and was gonna give it a shot.

Bunch of freaks there, I've heard, Curt mumbled around a bite of pizza. He had mowed the next door trailer's yard and bought pizza and booze with the money.

And you look like a slut. I'm sure they'll hire you.

Rory winced at the venom in his voice. He wasn't happy with the idea but if it meant he didn't have to work, he was willing to deal with it. She grabbed her keys to the beat up old Chevy Impala she drove and walked to the door.

Don't wait up! she hollered as she walked out the door.

She got in her car and drove several blocks over to pick her friend, Laura. Laura was coming along with her.. as moral support. And, Laura liked the party scene. They drove through town and found a parking spot a few blocks down from the club. It was a busy place, that's for sure.

Together, they walked up and Rory explained to the bouncer why they were there. After confirming via a walkie talkie, the beefy man let them in where they were met by a man who, to put it nicely, looked like a lecherous weasel. Rory gave a small, involuntary shiver. Laura winked and walked towards the bar, leaving Rory alone with the man, Marcus.

What makes you think I'd hire you? You have no experience, he asked and Rory sighed.

"I need the money... I have danced my entire life. Everything from latin, to hip hop, to ballet, and more.

Marcus's beady eyes traveled down her body, lingering in her tits and the juncture of her thighs.

You have the body... but I dunno. I'm not impressed.

Rory's heart sank as she saw his eyes move to her hair and makeup. He didnt think she was hot enough, it was obvious.

I'll have to think about it and get back to you... in the meantime, enjoy the club, and he pointed her off towards the bar.

Rory sought out Laura, who was waiting eagerly, fending off several men who obviously wanted a piece of her. Rory shrugged and explained what had went down, and Laura rolled her eyes and stuck out her tongue.

Fuck him, the lanky blonde said. Lets go dance! and drug Rory onto the dance floor, beer in hand.

 

[The_gladiator]

From his spot on stage Nicholas could see everything in the place. He figured it was as good a spot as any to survey his territory, and the place he found the most enjoyable.

All night he had observed people coming in and out of the club. He payed close attention to the ones that were led by Buzz the vampire bouncer to Marcus’s office. What kind of name was Buzz for a vampire anyway? The latest seemed to be a redhead that caught his eye. She had long hair, something that instantly caught his eye. There was something particularly appealing to Nicholas about long hair, especially when left down, available for a man to run his hands through. Buzz lead her back out of the office and like all the other women so far tonight, she looked disappointed.

He lost sight of her and put her out of his mind, Shifting his tuning and cranked out the opening riff for yet another sex themed rock song, “I’m so addicted to, all the things you do when you’re going’ down on me.” The singer picked up singing recognizing the riff He was playing. Nicholas was an excellent singer himself, but when he sang and sometimes when he played, people forgot to watch the dancers, forgot to play the games of chance, they tended to watch him perform, and on a night when he wanted a concert vibe, that was all well and good, but on a day like today, it was lady’s night, so the focus was on the dancers, professional and amateur.

As he played he wondered what had been wrong with the candidates Marcus had interviewed, take that woman who had caught his eye. She seemed well built, plus just walking she seemed to move well. What did he care, he had told Marcus he didn’t care, and who was he to critique the man’s method. He shoved his long dark hair out of his face, black eyes sweeping over the crowd still looking for trouble.

As he played his mind drifted again to Vladimir. Some said the sentinel hated Nicholas because he reminded him of his brother, who had shared a similar name. He sure hoped that such a feared leader of vampire justice wouldn’t be that petty. No matter, he had been properly reminded of his oath and duty and would keep a better grip on his people and those that came through his territory.

All of the band members were attractive, though none compared to Nicholas. It was Nicholas’s theory that attractive band members brought in more women, more women brought in more men, and more men brought in more profit as those men bought drinks, played cards, and when they couldn’t get a date with the single ladies that came, Nicholas’s dancers were all to ready to give them a private show, lap dance, or otherwise entertain them. He had his 6 foot frame in the shadows not wishing the limelight at this time, though he knew it was coming soon. There was no way that Byron wouldn’t introduce him and make him play a song soon. But for now, he would keep to his shadows where he could watch.

 

[isolemnlyswear89]

Rory followed Laura to the dance floor where they tuned into the music and began to dance together. Laura had also been a dancer and thats where they had met... in dance class at college when she had attended. They immediately drew the attention of several onlookers. Men approached, tried to dance, but eventually gave up when the girls showed no interest.

After several songs, their beers were empty and the ladies headed back to the bar. Laura was treating tonight, since Rory's financial situation was so grim. They each ordered another drink and turned to watch what was happening around them.

Rory eyed the band. Attractive men, all of them. And a few sexy as sin girls working the stage around them. Rory sighed. She could dance just as good, if not better, than those ladies, if the manager would just give her a chance. An idea took place in her mind. Maybe if she danced closer to the stage SOMEBODY , maybe even Marcus, would see her and take notice.

The girls headed back out and Rory made her way up close. As close as they could get to the stage. The music was so loud it was deafening, but Rory felt the thrill of it in her veins. She began to twist her hips and maneuver her body to the beat. Her breasts and ass swaying, drawing the attention of several nearby men, including the lead singer on stage. Rory smiled, and winked at him and she danced, gazing up at him through her lashes.

 

[The_gladiator]

Nicholas continued to watch. They switched songs and the dancing cranked up again. It became apparent that someone had caught Byron’s eye. He was smiling and gave a wink to someone in the crowd. He typically didn’t notice whoever Byron, a self-confessed manwhore was ogling today, however Byron gestured to Nicholas.

He moved smoothly from the shadows moving closer, wondering if perhaps Byron had spotted trouble. The singer indicated Rory with a tilt of his blonde head.

Dark eyes slid over a familiar form. He wondered where he had seen her before. Then it clicked, she was one of the people who had come out of Marcus’s office looking disappointed. He offered a shrug to Byron, wondering what his point was. He mouthed the words just watch. True to Byron’s words, the song picked up again and he watched her move and his eyes widened with surprise. She was talented. That frankly was an understatement. That combined with her long flowing hair, which he had already noticed, and the breasts barely restrained by her top, she was worth a second, third, and even fourth look. His gaze ate her up, devouring her movements. He wondered again, why Marcus hadn’t hired this woman. He needed a reason to talk to her.

After the song he gave Byron a nod indicating that the man could announce him. “Ladies and gentleman, some of you might not know that there is musical royalty with us here today.” Byron’s voice rolled out over the crowd. “Some time ago you might remember there was a singer that many of you used to come to hear, He was known as the traveler.” Applause came. “What most don’t know is the Traveler as stopped traveling, and he’s here tonight. Would you all care to hear him sing a song?” The applause was even stronger this time. Nicholas smiled, taking the Mic from Byron. “Good evening.” He said, his voice a low bass rumble, “Is there a song you want to hear?” he asked. Titles began to be yelled. As he spoke Nicholas watched the dancers filing off stage, this was an opportunity for them to have a well needed break, which is one of the reason he allowed this act to go on. He might grumble about it at times, but he loved his fans and the opportunity to be near them. Music had always moved him in ways that very few other things did.

He finally heard the song title within my heart shouted more frequently than the others. It was the song he planned to play tonight. It would allow him to get near his fans. Perhaps allowing him to get closer to her. As he moved to the edge of the stage and sat down on the edge, the women began to push forward, not the employees but the women who came to be there. He held his Mic out to the crowd, a silent invitation. It was clear that in order to play he would be unable to hold the Mic. It was obvious that he wanted someone from the crowd to hold it for him.

Laura Had watched the singer and guitar player watching Rory. “Did you see them staring at you?” she asked elbowing her friend, “What do you think that means?” she asked sounding excited. When the man sat on the edge of the stage Laura leaned close to Rory. “He was staring at you, still is. This is your chance. Go up there.” She pushed at her shoulder. Others were trying to push to the front, but some of the regulars had noticed where Nicholas was staring, and a pathway opened up between Rory and the stage. “Go on.” Laura urged surprised that the crowd too seemed eager to funnel the redhead forward to the man on the edge of the stage.

 

[isolemnlyswear89]

The music eventually slowed, and the lead singer began to speak to the crowd. The dancers filed offstage, presumably to take a break. Everyone's attention was focused on Byron anyway. His words took her, and much of the rest of the crowd, by surprise. Her eyes were focused on the shadow of a man who had just a few minutes ago, moved from the back of the band. Rory's pulse tripped lightly as she realized he was looking at her.

He addressed the crowd, getting everyone restless for him to begin. Rory, of course, knew who he was. He was Nicholas. THE Nicholas. And he was sitting on the edge of the stage, his eyes continuously focusing back on her.

Laura was shouting something and shoving Rory forwards. People were making room for her to walk closer, everyone noticing where Nicholas's focus was. His arm was outstretched, holding the mic in a silent bid for someone to hold it.

Rory came close enough to reach out and take hold. Her fingers brushed his and a jolt of what felt line electricity surged through her veins. Her eyes were locked with his, as if a unseen force was keeping them from moving away. She felt a slight flush creeping up her neck, not from embarrassment, but from excitement.

Then Nicholas relinquished the microphone into her grasp, the crowd pushed forward even more and Rory was pushed so close that her breasts pushed against his leg where it dangled over the edge of the stage.

Nicholas played the first note of the song and Rory smiled, getting sucked into the moment as he began.

 

[The_gladiator]

Nicholas kept his eyes locked on Rory. His eyes dark and mysterious. He never let his focus leave her, but he was aware of the others opening up a path. He didn’t always single out a woman for this duty, sometimes he let the women fight over it, and sometimes there was a plant in the crowd, if he wasn’t feeling particularly social that night. This time he wanted the redhead. He wanted a chance to talk to her, wanted a closer look at her. His lips twitched at that thought, should things work out, he would get more than a look.

For years He had been known as the traveler, or rather as part of the travelers, he and the rest of his band, though he had as Byron said been known as The Traveler. He sometimes missed playing with the others, but the Deadmen weren’t a bad group to play with either. It did however feel strange to have Byron introduce him, and not Ehlana.

Nicholas handed the Mic down to Rory, smiling as she took it from him. Her hand was tiny in his when he held it for a second. He then watched to see where she held it. Some shoved it into his face. Others got cute and put it in their cleavage so to reach it he practically had to bury his head in their breasts to get at it. He could feel her pressing close to his legs as the crowd gathered.

His fingers caressed the strings in an opening chord. He was glad that they’d done this song before. He’d forgotten to turn off his guitar’s distortion, but Fortunately Byron or one of the other guys had hit the foot switch for him, so the notes sounded right as he played them. He began to sing, his eyes still meeting hers. He did this to whichever woman was chosen, serenading them. He’d chosen her because she was attractive but also because he knew at the end of the song he could invite her to have a conversation with him, then he could get to the bottom of this with her and Marcus.

 

[isolemnlyswear89]

Rory was enraptured by his voice as he began to serenade her. She wondered why he had chosen her, and singled her out, for this special privilege. 100 other girls were gathered around, jockeying for the exact position that she held, holding the microphone up for him. Soon, all thoughts were driven from her mind as she focused on Nicholas.

His voice was deep, a low, rumbling bass that washed over her skin like a cool breath of air in the hot and sweaty nightclub. His dark eyes sucked her in like a Vortex. She couldn't turn away. She couldn't even begin to think of the lyrics of the song that he sang, even though she was positive that she knew them by heart.

Girls all around were screaming, singing along with him, and gushing over how hot he was. Laura was belting out the lyrics at the top of her lungs, a couple inches behind Rory. And yet Rory's focus remained intently on Nicholas and nothing else.

When the song was winding down, Rory felt disappointment creeping into her bones that the moment was almost over. The last note lingered in the air, and she forced a smile on to her face as she held the microphone back out for Nicholas to reclaim. His large hand close around hers again, definitely lingering much longer than necessary, and her eyes caught his once again.

 

[The_gladiator]

He had played this song more times than he could count. The Legend of the traveler had been around for decades. Some said that it had always been the same person, some thought the title moved from one to another. Since vampires came out, so to speak some had started to connect the dots that it might really have always been one man, or one vampire, though very few knew that for sure.

As the song broke into the guitar solo, Nicholas let a small smile twist his lips as someone smoothly transitioned his guitar to distorted again. His eyes drifted closed while he played the solo, displaying a high level of skill to play without once looking at the strings. His eyes opened again to meet hers once again.

As the song wound down, He reached out his hand covering hers on the mic holding it for a long moment pulling her in closer, spreading his knees a little to allow her closer. He leaned down, his lips just a breath from hers, “I thank you my lady,” he whispered and kissed her. He did not kiss every woman who he sang to, but this time, it felt right. It was not obscene like some of the kisses he’d given, but more chased, a lingering brush of lips that promised so so much more if only given the chance. “A word with you if I might?” he asked after he’d pulled back from the kiss, her the only one who could read his lips for it was too difficult to hear him over the cheers of the women, who had been jealous of Rory’s position, but yet 100% ate up the show of the kiss.

 

[isolemnlyswear89]

Rory's heart skipped a beat and she heard Laura shriek in excitement as Nicholas leaned closer and brushed his lips against hers. She was almost sure she could hear her heart beating an erratic rhythm over the roar of the crowd around her. A shiver of lust ran through her body, causing her to tremble ever-so-slightly.

Somewhere in the far recesses of her mind, a niggling little thought was dancing around.

You have a boyfriend.

Yes, but that boyfriend is a sack of shit. He's a loser. He can't even get a job and keep one.

The monotonous dialogue in her head droned on and she forced her attention back to Nicholas. She felt her eyes widen at what he said to her next. She gave an almost imperceptible little nod of agreement, looking around, unsure of what he wanted or where he wanted to go. It was entirely too loud to have a conversation here in the middle of the crowd. Laura had somehow managed to sneak off, under the pretense of getting another drink, in turn, leaving Rory to do whatever she needed to do.

 

[The_gladiator]

He stood up from the stage, dropping down in front of her, her breasts traveling up his body as he came down. He was almost a foot taller than her, that height lessened by her heals. He gave a wave and the crowd parted like the red sea, and he after handing his guitar up to Byron swept her off her feet and into his arms. “Play along.” He whispered in her ear. The crowd was eating that up too chanting take her to bed, take her to bed. Many thought that the women he kissed were those he invited to share his bed, this wasn’t the case but it was a helpful cover for them now. He carried her through the crowd and through a curtain at the side of the stage, revealing a hallway that lead to the private areas of the club.

Once out of sight he gently lowered her feet to the ground, arm around her shoulders until she found her feet. On the surface he seemed as if he hadn’t noticed her body pressed that close to him, but he had indeed. He was good at pretending he was unmoved, but he was male, and just as moved by women now as he had been hundreds of years ago.

His voice was slightly accented, but from what region was difficult to say. It was more obvious now than it had been on stage. When he spoke his words were much more matter of fact than might have been expected by the show leading to this point. “You interviewed here.” He stated more than asked. “You are talented, what reason would someone like you have to look sad when leaving an interview here?” He asked his words formal, showing a more old world way of speaking than the modern slang of today.

 

[isolemnlyswear89]

Rory sucked in a sharp breath and Nicholas jumped agilely from stage, his chest brushing her own as he slid down. Her eyes locked onto his and she gasped, giggling softly as he swept her, literally, off of her feet. The crowd made way as they passed, several women reaching out and dragging their hands across his body, unable to contain squeals of delight.

Rory could feel Nicholas's chest, hard with muscle, against her side, his arms flexing powerfully, and she could also feel the heat... so much heat... radiating from his body, as they strode through, into the private depths of the club.

When he sat her on her feet, Rory noticed exactly how much taller than her he was. Over a foot taller. When he spoke, he spoke in a way not often used anymore... he sounded more like he was from some old time, rather than now.

She had heard the rumors, that "the traveler" was different people, that it was the same person, and that he very well might be a vampire... her curiosity peaked now at which of those were true. His questions caught her off guard.

"Oh.. um... well... yeah i had an interview with the manager earlier tonight. He... well he didnt seem impressed and said he'd get back to me. I dont think he has any intention of calling me back". Rory shrugged. "He kept looking at my hair. I dont think he liked it. Do you know the manager well?" She asked.

It was obvious she didnt know that he was the owner of the club.

 

[The_gladiator]

He listened to her his expression darkening with each word uttered. He reached out, slowly running his hand down the waves of her hair all the way down to her tucked in waist. “Your hair is exquisite my lady.” He said, “I could just see it cascading in a waterfall down your body, playing peak-a-boo with your full breasts and nipples. I would pay money to see that, and I feel that others might as well.” He swept his eyes over her this time at close range from head to toe. He lifted one of her hands, so tiny in his. “Hard labor has marked these hands, but nothing that a good lotion and a manicure couldn’t fix. I’m certain that Byron would give you a manicure just to get to touch such delicate hands, it is one taste in women we share.” He said offhandedly, indicating his enjoyment of them, in a roundabout way.

He seemed to ponder her question, “I know Marcus a bit better than I would like to, and that’s for sure.” He said by way of a response. “What experience do you have?” he asked his eyes sweeping back up from her hand, which he still held to her face, pausing to linger on her breasts for just a beat longer than was polite. He was testing her, wondering how she might react to being stared at. If she was a dancer she would get that a lot, and with assets like hers, they would stare, a lot.

 

[isolemnlyswear89]

Rory didnt realize she was holding her breath until Nicholas reached out and took her hand in his, causing her to suck in yet another sharp breath as desire shot through her. He stared at her, at her body, and she only wished she could hide her feelings as well as he could. But his words were enough. He said he would pay money to see her and she felt a smile play across her lips. He mentioned her need of a manicure and she felt herself blush. That wasnt something within her budget currently, but it would become a priority if she got a job as a dancer.

He asked what experience she had and she sighed ever so slightly.

"I have no professional experience" she admitted. "But I've taken dance classes since i was little, and i went to college for dance, briefly. I know i could do this job".

Even though she wished she had experience, her words came out confident and her eyes, brilliant in the backstage lighting, met his as she spoke.

His eyes traveled down her body to her breasts. She showed no signs of discomfort at his blatant ogling. Contrary to that, she felt her nipples tighten into hard buds at the attention he gave her. Lust permeated the air.

"I would love a second chance at the job" she said, her voice low, sultry.

 

[The_gladiator]

Finally seeming to realize he was holding her hand, the thumb sliding over the skin that was soft enough to make him want to feel her hands on him, he let it drop. He frowned slightly as she outlined her experience. “I can see in at least that way why Marcus didn’t hire you. This is one of the most popular establishments in the area. You have a lot of education in dance but not a lot of practical experience.” He studied her. “That being said we have hired newbie’s before, everyone has to start somewhere.” His eyes continued to study her, meeting hers again. Her eyes were a brilliant green, one that he found drew a man in, so large in her face. He felt his body reacting to her tone, he had always loved voices, sound in general, hence his talent as a musician.

“You realize what sort of dancing you might be doing, right MS.” He paused waiting for her to insert her name, “Do you have any experience with the more intimate types of dance? Have you given a lap dance, poll danced?” he probably shouldn’t be asking that at least not in the tone of voice he was that betrayed a little more interest than was probably professional. He had a good feeling about her. He was curious if she would even answer him, would she leave, how serious was she about getting the job he wondered. Lack of experience mattered to him less than quality of character; he needed reliable employees who wanted to be there, he took a lot of pride in his businesses and wanted his employees to reflect that. The number of women they got that thought they could come dance to make a quick buck and maybe turn a trick or two on the side for extra money, was staggering that was one reason Marcus was so picky. However, he felt the manager was too hard on those who were lower class; the women Nicholas truly believed needed the jobs.

 

[isolemnlyswear89]

Rory's hopes grew a little as she saw the assessment in his eyes... but she was afraid to get too hopeful. What kind of pull could he even have over the manager? She seriously doubted it was enough to hire her, if the manager didnt like her. And for some reason, Marcus hadn't deemed her worthy enough.

Rory thought about the question he asked.. about intimate dancing. She wasnt sure the correct answer... so she decided to just be honest.

"I used to dance quite often in the bedroom for my boyfriend..." she said, putting extra inflection on the USED to part. "We even have a pole installed. I enjoy it..." she hesistated. "And he seems to enjoy it also. I can take whatever music is being played and make it sensual. Latin, hip hop, rock, even classical... I can be a tease, I can make them beg for more. I'm sure of it".

She grew more confident as she spoke. She had no doubt that her dance skills would be up to par.

"I..." she hesitated. "I could show you, if that would improve my chances of landing this job. I need this" she said firmly, her eyes seeking his, staring deeply into them.

 

[The_gladiator]

Nicholas listened as she spoke, his eyes watching the animated way she spoke with her hands, the intensity of her voice. His gaze caught her hesitation at her admission, but the way she recovered. “Some of us enjoy to be teased quite a bit MS Rory.” He said, even her name rolling off his tongue with a slight lilt to the words.

As she continued he cleared his throat. “Although I somewhat suspect I might enjoy such a demonstration, I ahem, am not sure that will be necessary.” He was curious, as far as he could tell she had no way to know he was the owner, why then was she so eager for the job that she would offer to give a random person a private dance on the hopes it would help her be hired. “I am sure if I accepted it would be too much from personal biased reasons, not objective professional ones.” He paused considering her again. “Tell me, why do you want this job so badly that you would offer such a thing to me?” he asked, if she said because he was the owner that would explain it, but if she did not he was extremely curious to know her answer. Eyes, that appeared black in most light, although now she was closer she could see they were actually such a dark blue they appeared almost black, studied her every move, took in her body. He was eager to see her dance, even dearly wanted to take her up on her offer. What was it about her that made him want to end his recent celibate state?

 

[isolemnlyswear89]

Rory felt herself flush slightly at his question. "Well... you said you know Marcus... and... you do play in the band here... so i just thought maybe if i proved to you that I'm worth it, maybe you would put in a good word".

Her cheeks grew pink. "I'm sorry if I overstepped some boundaries".

Her mind was racing. "I need this job" she said firmly, but quietly. "I need the money.. and dancing is what I'm good at. It's true i haven't danced professionally before, but I've been a bartender, and a server, and i know how to earn good money, while still being professional".

Her eyes met his again. "May I ask you a question? Why did you single me out in the crowd tonoght?"

She was curious why he had bypassed many other screaming, eager fans, for her. She had been excited but nearly as eager as some others in the crowd.

 

[The_gladiator]

Dark eyes tracked over her face as she spoke, reading her reactions, her expressions. She didn’t give too much detail but it seemed to be as he suspected, she was in need of the money. “No boundary was crossed by you. Many lines get crossed in this business.” However, before he could continue she asked him a question.

He considered his answer, “Maybe I just needed to touch you.” He said the corner of his mouth lifting as he ran his hand down her hair again. “I respect talent my lady and you seem to have it in spades, though I do not know how far your talents extend, I can tell the potential is there. And as you said I am acquainted with Marcus, rather more than I’d like to be, and I play in the band here.” He gave her nothing that she didn’t already know about him, repeating what she had said. “I may be able to put in a good word for you indeed.” He nodded slowly.

“Before I do though.” He said after a pause where he studied her body once again, “We should return to the discussion of boundaries. You mentioned crossing lines. Many seek to do that around here. If employed here, patrons may ask things of you, ask you to do things that are not in your official job description, some accept, some decline.” Many of the dancers served as blood donors to their clientele, many of whom left the memory of the couple having sex in the mind of the dancer, to cover what had really happened, old habits dying hard, even though vampires were now legal citizens, the pull to keep that part of them hidden was still strong for some. Others honestly did have sex with patrons, he was sure; there were some times that he was sure that Marcus encouraged such behavior, though he could not prove it. All of that being said he did not need someone hired who would be squeamish and who would run to the human police, investigations took time and were bad for business. “If you decline, how are your skills at soothing ruffled feathers, can you still leave them feeling satisfied?” he stepped a bit closer to her, lowering his voice, “If you accepted, are you skilled enough to satisfy?” he asked, that last sentence a seductive rumble. His eyes slid down her neck to watch her pulse jumping there beneath her skin and could feel his fangs fighting to lengthen in his mouth at the thought of tasting this beauty, however she would probably see nothing, he had been doing this a long time and was good at hiding what he was. To some it might look like he was crossing the line with a potential employee, but to Nicholas if she could not handle his advances, she would not last a day with some of Death’s customers.

 

[isolemnlyswear89]

Rory listened carefully to Nicholas's words. He could possibly put in a good word for her. Yet there seemed to be something that she was missing... like he had his own little secret that he wasn't divulging to her. She had no idea what it could be. Her curiosity was peaked, though she didn't let on to it.

Her pulse quickened as Nicholas stepped closer to her, his voice growing deeper, his eyes so intent they were almost menacing. Some kind of instinct was firing off warning bells in her mind. She didn't feel as if she was in danger... just that something was different, here.

Nicholas asked her if she would be willing to go above and beyond her job description to please the patrons of the club. Rory knew exactly what he meant, and she hesitated briefly. Curt would hit the fucking roof if she ever had sex with another man. She shuddered slightly at the thought of what would happen. But... if it weren't for Curt being lazy, she wouldn't be seeking this job at all. So in reality, it was him forcing her into this.

She could feel Nicholas's gaze on her body, almost like a physical touch. She could feel the heat emanating from him, and an irrational side of her wanted to step closer, to feel that heat against her.

It had been way too long since she had slept with a man.

"I can do whatever it takes, to please a customer" she said, gazing up at Nicholas from beneath her long, black lashes. "If they want... more ..." she said, "I'm not exactly sure how I'll handle it... you see, I have a boyfriend... but I can assure you that I would not let a customer go away unhappy" she said firmly, unsure of if her answer would be enough to earn her the job. She didn't want to lie, but she also knew that if it came down to it, she would do what she had to do to earn money.

 

[The_gladiator]

Nicholas was a bit surprised at her boldness. She did not step away from him, though she tensed like she might. “Do not misunderstand me little one,” he said hand coming up to stroke a lock of hair behind an ear, hand traveling down the column of her throat, fingertips brushing that pulse point his eyes had briefly fixated on. “I never once said you would have to do anything. I merely asked you if you knew how to smooth a situation if you did refuse.” He slowly withdrew his fingertips leaving the lingering warmth of his touch on her skin. Warmth that he would not possess was it not for the blood taken from women like her. “As well as asking, should you say yes, if you have skills in that area as well?” His eyes swept back up to her eyes again, “Myself, and the club do not take lightly a woman’s right to choose. A woman being forced against her will to do anything simply will not be tolerated in this establishment. If hired you will be under my protection.” He paused possibly longer than he should giving another hint as to his identity, although most would interpret it as presumed possessiveness, which he was also alright with, “As well as the protection of all the staff here. Most of our patrons know better, if they don’t, they are dealt with swiftly and without fanfare.”

He took a step over to a table and pulled out a chair for her, his gesture clearly indicating an invitation to sit. “As to your boyfriend, I am confident that he is a lucky man to have won such a prize.” He said fingertips on her elbow as he led her to the chair. “Not every man is as lucky to have such a rare person.” He stepped away from her and sat to her right, turning his chair to face her. His actions relieving some of the tension in the room, as now he did not tower over her quite so much. “Women that know how to please are rare. Still rarer are those with the will to satisfy. There is a difference in will to please and ability to do so.” His words were slightly cryptic, and could be talking about the job, about dancing, about the extra things, or about women in general, he left the words hanging in the air letting her interpret them how she saw fit. He did not apologize for his word games, did not apologize for testing her. It was necessary to know how to react. Marcus hired people based on his whims, what he thought was trendy, and often hired good people. Nicholas on the other hand wanted people a cut above. He was not fixated though on the nitpicky flaws in Rory that Marcus saw. He saw something deeper, with far more potential. He needed to know if this life would scare her away.

 

[isolemnlyswear89]

Desire skittered through Rory's veins at the lingering touch of his fingers on her throat. She was surprised at the reaction her body had towards this man, a virtual stranger to her. She had not felt an intense attraction to somebody like this, in a long time... it was possible she had never felt an attraction like this ever. It was an odd sensation.

His words had an odd effect on her. They settled any anxiety she had over the job. They were reassuring. She was a bit confused as to how he would offer protection, if he was just a member of the band.

He led her over to the table, where they both sat down, making her feel more at ease. She hadn't consciously realized quite how imposing his height was. His compliments caught her off guard and cause her to blush slightly. She smiled at him, her teeth, straight, even and a brilliant white.

"I have never once had a complaint in my abilities to please" she said confidently. Her eyes twinkled playfully. She could tell he was testing her, leaving his words open to interpretation.

"May I ask another question?"

"you said that everybody here was under your protection. What exactly did that mean? Are you like... a bouncer also?"

In her mind it was the only thing that made sense.

 

[The_gladiator]

She spoke and he let his lips tilt up at the corners, “Be careful Lady Rory, lest I encourage you to how should I say it, Prove the veracity of your assertions.” His eyes swept over her again hungrily, “However that most definitely would be crossing a line or three, would it not?” His eyes actually reflected his amusement as he teased her, just a little.

He seemed to consider her question after simply nodding to acquiesce to her request to ask another question. “I have been known to take the role of enforcer of justice, yes.” He said. Was that just his cryptic old world way of speaking, or a clever dodge of her question? What he told her was true, even if no, technically he was no bouncer. “All of the men tend to look after our women.” He said his tone a touch possessive, spreading that possession to include all of the men, which it did, even if some of them did so merely out of fear of retribution from Nicholas himself. Nicholas played these games sometimes, not revealing his ownership of the club, it was often more interesting to see how people would react with someone they thought had influence but were unsure how much. It often revealed tidbits about their level of admission and the like. If they knew he was in charge, people spoke less freely, and often would say anything to influence him. “You have other questions?” he made it more statement than question eyes meeting hers.

 

[isolemnlyswear89]

Rory rather enjoyed the teasing tone of his voice when he joked with her. The truth was, she would not mind crossing a few lines with this man. But she reminded herself that she was a committed woman, and she shouldn't be thinking that way about any man, especially a prospective co-worker. Lust could be an evil thing sometimes, she thought with a small smile.

His answer to her question about protection was as evasive as she could have imagined and it made her laugh quietly. For some reason he did not want to give up what his exact title was. And she figured that was his perogative. Maybe he was one of those team players that did a little bit of everything. He asked if she had any other questions and she smiled at him.

" I have a ton of questions. Like am I hired?" She laughed softly, letting him know that she was joking. "Really though, do you enjoy working here? Are the owners good people to work for? Is Marcus the kind of person that lives up to his first impression?"

She left out the fact that her first impression of him was that he was a slimy little weasel.