The slave in question scuttles curiously around it's cage, not really understanding what's going on, but the odd behavior he's never seen before interests him greatly. The collard one, the pet, he seems sad maybe, but also strong. He wishes he was strong, big, tough, then no one would mess with him. NO one would cage him. He could fight and be free! But no, he's not strong. He has to wait, pick his fight, and find his freedom again. Return to the forest maybe, where he can hide, and where he can go where he wants to. That would be good.

As the deal is sealed with a handshake Orion openly admires Joseph once more. “You really are somethin' Joseph. You mister Vandros is lucky to have you. . .” His voice trails off as he looks the vampire up and down one last time before turning back tot he cage. “I'll have the creature bound and sedated, a little more securely than mister Vandros likes, but with an acquisition like this I'd rather not take any chances. As I recall you transport via car rather than a truck.” He glances at Joseph before smiling at the M'Tinak as it crawls over tot he bars. Wiggling his fingers at it he laughs as it snaps at him. “I'll send over the contract post haste. A pleasure doing business with you Joseph, I hope to see you again soon.” His tone makes it obvious that he's dismissing the slave and after a few more seconds he heads into the back room to type up the proper forms.

~*~*~*~*~

Alexi watches Erik, his eyes trained on the vampire almost as if he's the only thing in the world worth looking at. Even the crazy human knows that that is foolish, but if anything could be said about Alexi Vandros it's that when he becomes obsessed with something there is nothing in the world that will convince him it's not worth obsessing over. Crossing his arms he lays his head down on them as he watches Erik pull up a chair. [i]'He looks really pretty in that. I know I should not have to say this, but I did not just pick him for his looks. I am sure there are other reasons, but just because I can not think of them now does not mean they do not exist. I am not in my right mind right now, all this negativity tearing apart my innards. It is completely understandable that my recollection be faulty. How can he live like this? Always second guessing himself, always doubting. I know it is normal for most, but. . . .'[/i]

His thoughts trail off as Erik sits down and begins speaking. His smile is warm and soft as the rebel leader tries to tell him he has no idea what to do. Despite the pain raging inside him the younger Vandros never loses his soft feelings of caring for the other, and he really can't wait to show the man more. He lets out a soft sigh and begins tugging at his hair. “Do not worry Erik, I am sure I shall find a way to deal with this. I know Joseph is worried, but in truth I will simply have to go along with this if it is going to work properly. If I can not understand and deal with it on my own. . .” He lets out another sigh, turning his smile on Erik again. “I will deal with it. And yes, the second dose should ease this pain if you really feel less anger towards me. Right now I am simply suffering the echoes of your feelings at the time your blood was taken. After the second dose the actual open link should fall into place, though it will only work in close proximity.”

Stretching out on the bed he suddenly jolts and gasps as his bandaged wrist catches on the blanket and tugs at the wound. He lets out a rather childish whine and pulls his arm back in, cradling it. Staring at his arm he says softly almost to himself, “I would never break you. . .” After a few seconds he looks back at Erik, no longer looking like a man a million miles away. “What about you? How are my feelings settling with you? After yesterday’s display I hope they are remaining just as uplifting.” There is no arrogance in his voice, his smile honest, his expression curious.