[i]Alexi Vandros, you become stranger by the second. You had me in chains 24 hours ago. And STARING is what you're apologizing for? Why would I care if you look at me? Of all the things you've done to me in the last few days, staring at me naked is one of the least offensive.[/i]

The vampire found himself rolling his eyes at Alexi's explanation for the lack of a shower in the room. Though he appreciated the desire for authenticity, it seemed silly to him to value authenticity over efficiency and, in this case, safety. Nevertheless, he swam over across the pool and sat down next to the billionaire on the inner ledge. Despite his flippancy on the matter, he did intend to keep his promise of making sure that the man did not drown.

He looked up and met Alexi's eyes on his mention of Gidian Grunblak, unable to keep his own face from screwing up in equal disgust. 

“God... he's worse than I thought,” he replied, sounding absolutely disgusted. "Amusing thing is, most of us lump you in with him, and the rest of the slave profiteers. And I'm still trying to figure out why I should change that perception, apart from your initial show of trust.” The vampire's tone was more relaxed and pensive now, but he tensed slightly as he changed back to the subject at hand.

“So how did you manage to capture me?” he asked, taking another stone and beginning to gently wash the man's back where it would be difficult for him to reach himself. It was a rather personal move, but it should not be mistaken for one of trust. Erik had merely decided that if Alexi was willing to open up, he might as well try and go all the way at putting him at ease. Even if he was a liar, a still distinct possibility for the owner of the only slave control device corporation in the world, the information gathered now could be crucial. 

Furthermore, he did not see the action as very uncomfortable, as he had done similar things for men and women he had bathed with in the Resistance. Many species of magicals had a different perception of personal space than most humans did. Though vampires usually chose to remain clothed, certain othr species went naked all the time, and did not see touch as something quite so personal and reserved. Erik could not help it if after two centuries he had picked up some of their habits.