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[loveconquersdinosaurs]

1.

It was the longest day of the year. Which, naturally, meant it was the shortest night of the year. Which meant that any hunting Thomas wanted to get in, he'd need to work fairly quickly. While there still were plenty of hours in the night, naturally, he had to keep human behavior in mind as well. If he waited too late, then there wouldn't be too many people hanging around. Adding in the fact that he liked to flirt and charm people into going somewhere private with him to feed…well, those things took time, and seeming too determined to be alone with someone could make them suspect something was up.

And so he had to work fast to make sure he didn't seem like he was in a hurry. In the last few hours before sunset, he'd showered, shaved, and made sure all clothes and wig were neatly groomed and in place. Just a bit of wig glue around the outer edges to make sure nothing too embarrassing could happen, and he was up and ready to head out the door.

As he was heading to the nearest bar to start his rounds, however, Thomas caught the sight of someone cutting through an alley. Curious, he decided to check things out. If he was lucky, he'd find he was able to cut his hunt short tonight. If that wasn't the case…well, he could always move on. With his vampire strength and healing, he wasn't exactly concerned with muggers and other potential threats that lurked in the shadows, after all.


2.

He'd never been here before, but with a name like that, how could he not check it out at least once? While Thomas generally preferred women to men, it was less of a rule, and more a general guideline for when all other things were equal. Like how he preferred sleeping with humans to other vampires, or urban fantasy in his TV shows to historical fiction. If it was good, he didn't really care which he was getting. Jean-Claude, for example, had been one such individual whose good looks and charm would be enough to make Thomas ignore two of his typical guidelines. The dancers that were hired here? Each one was also easily attractive enough to fall into that category as well. Clearly, whoever did the hiring had a very good eye.

Ordering a beer, Thomas decided to settle down and enjoy the show, drinking in the sights. Though the beat of the music drowned out the sound of the dancers' heartbeats, sometimes the steady rhythm almost reminded Thomas of the sound of a pulse, and he pictured the blood pumping through their veins as they poured their energy into the dance, and that made them all the more enticing.


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Comments

2.

[outstandingbalance]

Funny where you run into people, isn't it. Natasha doesn't come here often. She's come here a time or two before, keeping an eye on things, feeling out the ground with Jean Claude. She didn't expect to run into Thomas again.

On the other hand, they're both part of a relatively limited community.

She considers not approaching. It's not as though they're friends, and most people don't come to a strip club looking to strike up conversation with acquaintances. It's an idea she plays with, but ultimately discards. She's curious how he's been handling London, especially in light of everything that's happened since the last time they met.

Beer in one hand, she slips into a seat beside him, her attention divided between him and the dancer on stage.

"Thomas, right? I remember you."

[loveconquersdinosaurs]

When Natasha joined him, Thomas gave a quick glance over to her, though he still kept most of his attention on the dancer, who was really quite athletic.

"Yeah, I remember. At the bar. How are things at the school?"

Better than how they were at the nest, he hoped. He hadn't liked Millicent's idea for the bloodfest, so having that be an all the time thing...well, that was certainly a few steps down in his book. Of course, that wasn't the only issue Thomas had had as of late. Depending on how apt she was to notice such things, she might notice that the cut and texture of his hair was slightly different than last time, due to the incident with Cooper that currently had him wearing a very realistic lace and human hair wig. Still, it was very similar to how his hair had been, and there was no guarantee she'd notice.

[outstandingbalance]

Natasha is observant. She also has experience with wigs, considering how useful they were in her career as a spy. They were a quick and easy way to change your look—the thing that stands out is that he's clearly not trying to change his look.

"Could be worse," she says, taking a sip of her beer, though the question gets a little frown out of her. The trouble at Islington hasn't been contained there. She and the others in the Outreach Group have done what they can to keep the school and the areas around the ground safe, but they've lost people. Shifters have been targeted more lately.

She doesn't try to hide the fact that she's not entirely happy with that right now, either. Advantages of not being part of the nest: she doesn't have to hide the fact she doesn't care for the new management.

"There's always something, though," she adds, her attention seemingly on the dancer as well. Whether he really has her distracted or if it's just for show is hard to say. "But that's the same everywhere, isn't it?"

[loveconquersdinosaurs]

"Yes, we've had our own share of things, although I'm sure you're aware."

After all, political assassination likely got around within the supernatural community. She might recall how he had been wary of potential backlash from the bloodfest that lasted only a few days, so naturally having the rules dropped entirely would be even worse. He forced himself himself to focus on the dancer, however, seeing as he'd come here to be entertained, so he was determined to enjoy himself.

"You know, it really is impressive how he keeps so many tips in his g-string without losing a single one."

[outstandingbalance]

"That's his paycheck there," Natasha says wryly. "I'm sure he'll have a few to pick up off the stage anyway if someone decides to make it rain, but I figure you learn pretty quick how not to leave your money on the floor."

Which doesn't actually make it less impressive. She's not sure how she feels about him as a dancer, but he's certainly a talented entertainer, and very athletic.

"I wonder how well he does this way? If everything goes even more pear shaped, it'd be nice to know if that's viable back up plan."

[loveconquersdinosaurs]

"Especially since it's one of the few jobs where only being able to work at night isn't an issue."

If everything went south, he supposed it was something to consider. After all, it wasn't like he could open a hair salon that only opened past sun down.

Glancing over at her, eying her up for a moment, he added, "But I'm sure you would do just fine with a physique like that."

Thomas doubted he would, either.

[outstandingbalance]

"Having an in with the management probably doesn't hurt either," Natasha says lightly, tipping her head in agreement with his point; it's not vanity, but she knows what she looks like. She also knows she'd never really do it, but sometimes it does seem tempting.

So much more simple than her real jobs.

"I'd offer to put in a good word for you too, but somehow I don't think you'd need it." Because she assumes he already knows Jean-Claude himself or because he was more than attractive enough not to need help getting this sort of job. Either way.

[loveconquersdinosaurs]

"Somehow, I think you're right."

Though he doubted the requirements went beyond looking hot and being able to dance in an enticing way, both of which he could do. The fact that he rather enjoyed that sort of attention was a bonus, of course, but he still wasn't planning on going for it if he didn't have to. After all, it seemed like the sort of thing that would be less fun if he had to do it night after night.

"So do you know the management from spending a lot of time here, or something else?"

[outstandingbalance]

"I've only been here a few times, but somehow I keep running into him. Small world, I guess."

She sips her beer again.

"There's a few people like that, it seems. But the community is only so big... And I guess I've been swinging by here since then, so some of it's on me."

1

[whatmatters]

Ringer was out trying to track down a thief from some weeks before. It wasn't so much a determined search as a casual distraction from everything else that had her stressed. James's disappearance, Faolan's secret, and even trying to adjust to her own powers was annoying her. It was easier to focus on human problems, like trying to find the guy that tried to steal that girl's necklace awhile ago.

Which was why she stayed to the shadows, looking for the suspicious alleyways and criminal nooks that might hold the answer to her quest. Or something else worthy of a distraction.

She seemed to find the latter when a noise registered behind her. Ringer spun around to try to find the source of the almost silent footsteps, expression fairly neutral aside from brief surprise.

[loveconquersdinosaurs]

"Isn't it a bit dangerous, hanging out in dark alleys like this?" Thomas asked, stopping, doing his best to sound casual, non threatening. Plenty of distance between them, so she wouldn't think he was going to try to grab her or anything like that.

Of course, he knew it would be far less threatening to pass through and barely act like he noticed her, but that certainly wasn't part of his plan. He was still considering the possibility of convincing her to go back to his place for a quick bite, after all. Also, he was admittedly curious about why she was here. The woman didn't look like she was merely cutting through, and this dark, dirty alley wasn't exactly the place where most women would want to be in the middle of the night.

[whatmatters]

"Only when I'm followed," she quipped dryly. Ringer crossed her arms over her thin frame. While very aware of her mortality, she was used to dealing with people and things a hell of a lot stronger than her and preferred to hold her until or unless it became necessary to do otherwise.

This guy, on the other hand, looked more like a drunk human trying to get laid than anything dangerous, though she wouldn't dismiss the possibility outright. He was reasonably attractive and around her age, both of which made her want to distance herself from him. A quick and awkward conversation, as most conversations were for her, and then she would probably be able to escape and continue with her futile search.

[loveconquersdinosaurs]

"Then it's a good thing I'm not following you." Except he was, sort of. He saw someone in the alley, so he went in, at least. "Just passing through, looking for somewhere I can get a few quick drinks." He casually leaned against a wall, arms crossed. "Still, I thought I'd give you a head's up. This isn't always the nicest neighborhood."

At least, not since the vampires were given the go ahead to run wild it wasn't. It wasn't like he could tell her about that, though, so instead, he stuck with vaguely implying it.

"At least, not lately."

It hadn't been so bad when most vampires were trying to follow the rules, staying within the lines. To humans, it likely looked like the murder and disappearance rate had skyrocketed for no reason.

[whatmatters]

"Thanks for the info." Ringer was content to leave it at that, to turn around and walk away, until he added that damn clarification. Her lips tightened as she considered whether it was meant to be a hint as to what he knew about the supernatural community or if it was solely a remark on the rising danger levels. The latter was obvious and she felt paranoid for even considering the first, but Ringer was nothing if not deliberate.

"Are you human?" She asked plainly. If he was an ignorant human, he would think she was crazy or laugh it off. Anyone else would produce a flicker of recognition. Except the really good liars. Sometimes they were harder to weed out.

[loveconquersdinosaurs]

Thomas blinked, surprised. Had he been that obvious? Then, quickly regaining his composure, he smirked.

"I know, hard to believe that my charm and good looks could be entirely natural, but as hard as it may be to believe, I was entirely human when I developed these features." Notably, he made no comment on whether he was human still. "The better question, however," he continued, standing up straight and taking a step toward her, "Is, are you human."

[whatmatters]

There was the flicker of recognition, at least. Ringer's arms tightened in anticipation of a fight, a natural response to meeting pretty much anyone knew ever. She took note of his careful wording, that he 'was' human, though it spoke nothing as to what he might be now. Werewolves were easier, vampires meant she'd probably end up injured, and witches were an unknown. She remained still as he came closer.

"Yes," she replied easily, having no reason not to. Technically she would be classified as meta human now, thanks to her abilities, but Ringer hadn't wanted them and would still insist upon being human to anyone who asked. Attractive as he was, his charm didn't sway her much. "Is that a problem?"

[loveconquersdinosaurs]

"Of course not," he said, flashing her a brilliant white grin. "I like humans."

Humans tasted delicious. Not that he was going to add that, and besides, he rather enjoyed being around humans for more than just food, anyway. That was a large part of why he didn't participate in much of this feeding frenzy nonsense going on at the moment, more so than the reason he usually claimed.

2. PRETEND I'M NOT SUPER SUPER LATE FOR THIS...

[baisant]

Jean-Claude smiles as he watches the other vampire settling down at his table and ordering his drink. He lets the other man enjoy the show for the next while until the dancers (and the audience's wallets) need a time for a break, and so it is at that time that Jean-Claude takes the opportunity to saunter over to the other man instead. Sliding his way into the seat across from him and offering him a pleasant smile. Like Thomas himself, Jean-Claude is attractive and he knows it. And he's had centuries to perfect flaunting it as well.

"I must say, I am surprised to find you here tonight, mon ami," Jean-Claude admits, cocking his head at the other man as he does. "That is not to say, of course, that it is not a pleasure."

[loveconquersdinosaurs]

"Oh?" he asked, offering a small smile in return. "This seems to be the most entertaining place around this time of night, so I thought I'd stop by."

Though considering how few places were open this late, there wasn't really that much competition. Then again, this was Thomas, and any place with nearly naked attractive people was a place he'd like to hang out. The alcohol didn't hurt, either.

[baisant]

Jean-Claude cannot help but quirk something of a smile at the other vampire, tilting his head at the other man in turn. "And are you finding yourself entertained, then?" he asks. "I would like to hope that you are. That is the idea of the place, after all. And I aim to please."

There's a particularly wicked glint of mischief in his eye at that last part. Jean-Claude is nothing if not a flirt of the highest offence, after all.

[loveconquersdinosaurs]

"Oh, and you certainly do," he said in a low tone, practically purring. Jean-Claude may be a huge flirt, but Thomas was no slouch in that department himself. "I've been enjoying the show so far. You must have a good eye, I'm very impressed with your hiring choices."

[baisant]

Jean-Claude is a huge flirt and in the best possible of ways. If he should be given the notion that it wouldn't be untowards for him to proceed beyond a casual flirt, then by all means he proceeds without caution. And if he gets the hint that the flirtation is all that his partner would like for this to be, then he is perfectly content to leave things there. It is, as far as he is concerned, giving and getting the best of both worlds.

He cocks his head at the other vampire, trying to determine just which it might be with him as he sits forward slightly in his chair. "You flatter me," he says, not looking at all bashful in response to the compliments.

[loveconquersdinosaurs]

"Do I?" he asked, smiling and shifting closer to Jean-Claude. "I'm just giving an honest review. Although..." he said, studying Jean-Claude's face for a moment, "I'm sure you already know that."

After all, Jean-Claude certainly seemed like he was used to this sort of attention. Of course, it wasn't as if though Thomas wasn't, seeing as he often used looks and flirtation to get his meals to gladly come along. Of course, this was very different, seeing as Jean-Claude was certainly no meal. Rather, at the moment, Thomas was mostly looking for some very enjoyable company, and Jean-Claude certainly promised to be that.

[baisant]

Jean-Claude offers the casual shrug and tilt of his head which could mean anything or nothing. It is an infuriating habit of his, for those trying to seek an answer from him. Luckily in this case Thomas probably already has his.

"Yes, well. What can I say, mon ami? I aim to please," he offers in return. And offers the other a wicked smile in turn.

[loveconquersdinosaurs]

In this case, that was really all the answer Thomas expected anyway, seeing as he already knew the answer. The only question that remained, then, was where he wanted to bring this from here.

"I can see that. As far as I can see, that aim seems to extend well beyond the way you run your business, although I certainly have been enjoying my night here. I know I was pleased last time I saw you. Sanity and order can be refreshing."

How it ended had been disappointing, of course, and Thomas wondered if he should really bring it up, but it had still done what Thomas wanted, and showed him that some of the vampires in this nest had an interest in some form of sanity.