Love Games ( Yoshie & G23)

[Greeneyed23]

Somewhere in the Midwest:

The cigar flared, momentarily exposing the face of the man, and the woman before him began to scream.

"PLEASE!??!?!?!?! NO!! I'M SORRY!!!"

He smiled coldly and blew a puff of smoke into her face. "Indeed you are my dear. But not as sorry as you will be."

She coughed and reached out to him and his hand lashed out hard and fast, and she cried out in pain, clutching her bleeding nose and already sobbing in terrified pain. The two men beside her looked on silently.

The smoker, less than 30, but powerfully built, and in a suit that could not have cost less than $10.000, studied the woman carefully.

She was young, exceptionally beautiful despite the blood and tears on her face, and her nude body was a miracle of creation. He chuckled. "You have betrayed me. I never forgive that." He held out his cigar and tapped it, the cinders falling onto her bare chest making her yelp in more pain. "Goodbye."

She tried to leap forward to beg for mercy but the men beside her had her arms and hair, and with a single concerted movement they hurled her into the pit behind her, ignoring her screams as the pit slammed closed and machinery activated. Her screams only grew louder as the machines shrieked into life and tore her once beautiful body into shreds.

The smoker waited until the screams ended, then nodded to his men. "To the pigs. Bleach the machines."

They nodded and set to work as he left the building, got into his car and drove off.

The next morning:

Alex Tate, or AT as his buddies called him, was balanced, sorta, on the lip of a rooftop, waiting for the fat tub of guts to get closer.

Only 14. AT was still one of the better known faces here on Martin Luther King Boulevard, and the only white native of this the most dangerous street of East Saint Louis. Orphaned but refusing to go to Child Services he slept in any one of the many filthy alleys, and had done since he was 4. He had grown up quick, hard, and sneaky, a true child of the streets. Now he ran the latest regrouping of the MLKB Crushers, a rather brutal street gang who fought even against adult gangs and the cops to keep their streets the way they liked them.

AT lead because he was the quickest, the meanest, but also the smartest. He was rather short for his age and not much to look at just now, but he was no fool. He had gone to school, studied what mattered to him, and read all the time. He had learned that books had secrets, such as battlefield tactics, and even how to commit crimes better, and even more important, how to make weapons. He also learned how to improve his games.

Which was also why the fat slob was coming for him. AT had used his considerable charm and charisma to get into the bed of the slob's 17 year old daughter many times over the last three months, and her father had finally found out about it, and had spent all morning chasing Alex all over the neighborhood. But though the slob had lived here all his life, no one knew the area better than Alex Tate.

Now they were back on the slob's own apartment building, Alex seemingly backed against the edge of a six story drop with nowhere to go while the slob's daughter and latest woman screamed for him to stop, and AT seven fellows from the Crushers jeered the fat man.

The man was in a rage, and refused to listen. "Cum 'ere lil fucker. No one fucks my daughter!" He drew out a switchblade and let the blade pop free. "I'll cut of yer lil fucker and ya won't trouble no one else!"

Alex studied the man and smiled. "No thanks. I like my 'lil fucker' where it is. And so does your daughter. Five or six times a night in fact."

The man screamed and lunged, but Alex had already jumped off the edge of the building. He fell silently, letting his body relax as with a crash he landed in the overstacked pile of garbage bags covering the massive dumpster beside the building. Holding his breath and closing his eyes he began to roll and soon fell into the street.

Only once standing did he open his eyes and look up at the swearing fat man and wink, then walked on to join the Crushers, who, laughing, took him to the carwash on the quarter, shoved him in, and sprayed him down and scrubbed him with the tire scrub to get rid of the stink, then used the drier blower to finish him off. They did all of this while also washing ten different cars, thus they cleaned up their leader, and also made a tidy profit for themselves.

While all this went on, a certain car had been parked on the corner, and a man with a cigar watched it all unfold, while his employees made excuses. Finally, when the boys were on their ninth car he looked at his employees who all froze. "You all owe me at least a hundred more a day. I know you've been skimming and I've let it go to let you think you're clever. Well here's the deal. I want all my money in an hour."

The men, and women, all flushed, then sensing he would say no more, fled the man's presence as he put his car into gear and rolled over to the carwash just as the other boys started the tenth and Alex ruffled his now dry hair. The man snapped his fingers to get Alex's attention and Alex whirled to say something smart, then froze, knowing all too well what the car and the man in it meant.

The man smiled. "Smarter than you look. C'mere."

Alex gulped and moved forward, but not within arm's reach or the reach of the door.

The man studied him for a long moment, then gestured at boys working. "That your idea?"

Alex shrugged.

"C'mon kid. Answering me won't hurt you."

"I'm not a kid. And yeah it was my idea. So what?"

The man nodded. "Well I'm looking for some help."

"I don't do faggot shit man."

"Who asked you too? If I wanted a gay boy I would go talk to one of the pimps. Not the local punks."

"Ain't no fucking punk man."

"Really? Why didn't you fight the fat guy then? Punk."

Alex glowered but answered anyway. "Bitch had a knife. And he's too big to fight...for now."

The man grinned. "Good answer. What would do if you had had the knife?"

"Wait until he got tired and cut his throat."

"Even better answer. Here." He held out a $100 bill. "You wash my car right and you keep that."

Alex debated. They already had twenty five bucks. The gang could live on that. Alex could keep the hundo to himself. He leaned forward and snatched the bill away. "Alright. roll in."

The man rolled up his window and pulled into the lane, still puffing his cigar and watching Alex.

Alex actually did make change, and start washing the car. He didn't half ass it or try to skip out, but rinsed, soaped, scrubbed, then waxed every inch of the big car, a very nice Jaguar. When he finished he noticed that his buddies had left him, unaware that they had been shooed away by the man in the car. He was just putting the stuff away when the garage doors on either side of the lane slammed shut and the man stepped out of the car.

Alex tried to yank on the doors but they wouldn't budge. Heart pounding he turned to face the man.

The man was very dark, even for a black man, but his eyes were eerily pale, a very light tan rather than brown, and his hair was cut into a well kept fade. his suit was perfectly tailored, and his shoes were hand crafted wingtips, with a large monogrammed "jR" on each toe. Seeing that Alex froze, then looked up at the man and gulped.

"You can have the money back Mr. Russell sir...just please..don't hurt me. I'm nobody. I never mess with your girls...or the boys who work for you."

The man, one Jerry Russell, studied him for a long while, then took another puff of his cigar and blew it out, letting the smoke waft over him. "Why shouldn't I hurt you?"

Alex's mind raced. "Well.... i could work for you. I'm no good to be sold but my boys and I could run protection for your uh...clients. Make you some more money...sir."

Russell arched an eyebrow at the sir. He took another puff and rolled his silver wedding ring thoughtfully, then reached into his jacket pocket with his right hand, smirking as Alex flinched. He drew out a roll of cash. "No. i have a better idea. You take this. Give it to your buddies and tell them to report to my club downtown tonight. But you come with me. Now."

Alex gulped again. "But why? You...You don't use boys...and I'm only good on the streets."

Russell grinned. "We'll see kid. I;m offering you a job. it's shit work but it's a job. And a place to eat and sleep."

Alex knew this was too good to be true. "Why? You don't need me."

Russell chuckled. "No.No i don't. But you could be useful in the future. Can you read and write?"

Alex nodded.

"Do math? Make change?"

Alex nodded again.

"Alright. Get in the car."

Alex slowly rose from the wall, then gestured at the money. "What about talking to my boys?"

"You will when we pass them. Get in the car."

Alex gulped but obeyed, but got into the front seat, not daring to get into the back. Russell nodded his approval and got in. The doors opened and there was no sign of who had lowered them. The car rolled out and Alex spotted his gang on a street corner eating junk food and cracking jokes.

The car pulled up and he waved them over. They started to crack more jokes despite the car when he hissed. "It's Jerry Russell assholes!" They all fell silent, then their eyes widened when he held up the large roll of money. "He wants you to come see him tonight at Mercy's." He gave them the money, then jumped as the window went up and the car took off. He whirled to look at the man driving, certain he was doomed.

Russell said nothing. Not a word. They crossed the river and went into the entertainment district, and pulled up before a very understated yet clearly popular club.

Alex waited until the man parked and got out before stepping out and gently shutting the door, then took off after the marching back of the most powerful man in the sex industry of the nation. Once inside he stared in awe. There were TVs on the walls and men and women at the bars, in large chairs and couches, drinking any number of spirits and the Cardinals were on the screens. But Alex's eyes were locked on the servers. Each was simply gorgeous, and entirely nude. Strippers of both sexes worked poles, the bars, in cages, and even on tables. The music was throbbing loud, and Alex's eyes just got wider and wider and wider. But he stayed behind his host, and followed him through the throng to the back, then up a hidden staircase to a large plush office.

A woman in a see through blue negligee and fuck me heels was sitting behind the desk, her very nice legs up on the desk when the door opened. She turned and leapt to her feet. "Mr. Russell sir. how good to see you." She gulped her tousled blond hair spilling over her massive breasts while trembled, while her blue coated lips all but disappeared. She didn't even notice Alex who could not help staring at her.

Russell smiled sweetly. "This is Blue Ivy. She manages this place for me. Ivy this is Alex."

Her eyes flicked to the boy and she blinked, very confused but nodded.

"Ivy I need your office for a bit."

She all but sprinted to the door. "Of course sir. Can I bring you anything?"

"No thank you. Alex would you like something?"

Alex, eyes still glued to the impressive breasts of the woman before him, slowly shook his head. Ivy shut the door and he jumped, looking back to Mr. Russell who went behind the desk, then gestured at the chairs before it. "Sit."

Alex rushed to obey, realizing he too was trembling.

"What's your name kid?"

"AT...I mean Alex Tate-sir."

Russell smiled. "So you do know who I am?"

Alex nodded.

"Tell me what you know.

Alex gulped. "You are Jerry Russell. The King of Sex. Every brothel in the nation either belongs to you or pays you money. You control most of the porn produced, and you have control of more escorts and hookers than anyone else...including the Mob. Who won't touch you?"

Russell arched an eyebrow. "Where did you hear all that?"

"The pimps on the streets. They talk about you like some kind of god-sir."

Russell nodded. "And the thing about the Mob?"

"Everyone heard about Chicago sir...and Baltimore. And that thing in New York..did you really-"

Russell waved this away. "Yes I did. Now would you like a job in this business?"

Alex blinked. "Well sure...sir. But why me?I'm just a punk off the streets."

Russell smiled. "A punk who turned 2 bucks into 25 dollars in the space of ten minutes. This business is about money Alex. Now you are too young to serve alcohol, and I'm not going to sell your ass. But you can learn. You can work, and you can help Ivy."

Alex blinked. "Help...her? How sir? she's done this all her life hasn't she? What good would i do?"

Russell smiled again. "I want you to work on making this place more profitable. That is your job. You'll get a salary, but your job is to keep this place safe, clean, and making money. You're clever enough to make that happen. Aren't you?"

Alex slowly nodded. "yes sir...but what about my crew?"

"They are punks. But even punks can be useful. I want them to start recruiting."

"Who? And for what sir?"

"The competition."

Alex blinked. "What?"

"They are going to work on getting the hookers, strippers, and other sex workers I don't control to come work for me. That is your other job. To get that data and sue it to get me more employees. No killing, no violence against the workers themselves. Just get them under my dollar."

Alex slowly nodded, finally seeing where this was going. "What about MLK?"

Russell grinned. "I've already paid the Zig-Zags to hold it and clean it up under the name of the Crushers."

"What?! When?! Why?"

"Because I like the idea of a bunch of kids who fight off adults. And yes I've heard about what you and your boys did. Especially to the Jamacians."

Russell leaned forward slightly. "Including that you have already killed Alex Tate. Several times."

Alex gulped but said nothing. Russell smiled. "Smart move. Now I'm offering you room, board, food and drink, and education. That's one rule. you go back to school. You work, eat, and live here for free, but only as long as you do well in school."

"But why?"

"Education is important. Don't argue.As long as you attend you have a place to live and get paid 2 grand a week."

Alex's eyes bulged at the money. He began nodding. "Yes sir."

"Good. Now go find Ivy. We have much to discuss."

Alex obeyed and while he was gone Russell made a call. Out to California where he quickly reached Claudia Russell, his wife. "How goes it on the Coast?"

She sighed. "Oakland is being troublesome again I handled it."

"How?"

"Completely."

"Very well. You still planning on going through the rest of the Bay Area?"

"Of course. Where you off to next?"

"Miami. Then a tour of the South before heading north. You'll be joining me in Atlanta?"

"Of course my love. We have that dinner to attend next week."

He nodded as he heard steps on the stairs. "See you then darling." He hung up and turned as Blue Ivy and very pale Alex entered the room.

Eight years later:

Alex studied his office carefully.

It had been his office for a full two years now, ever since his twentieth birthday when Blue Ivy, with the Russell's permission, had named him the new manager of Mercy's and it's entertainment complex and had retired a millionaire, to do her pornos and her new sex toy line.

Things had changed both for Alex, Mercy's and Saint Louis. Alex himself was now a millionaire, and had become the de factor boss of every Russell owned business or service in Missouri and two hundred miles into each state it bordered.

The first two years he had just been learning the business, the way things worked, how to mange the money going in and coming out, and working on his own schooling and education. He had had a number of ideas though. He had convinced Ivy and the Russells to install camera in all the rooms, and sold the videos of clients with the girls to porn sites until he had met a skilled computer nerd who wrote and ran a massive porn site for the Russells where the videos were uploaded, along with ads to come meet the girls in person. The girls themselves also all became webcam models, and here they made tons of money. Even the girls who just had no skill for dancing, or couldn't bear to sleep with the clients made good money for themselves and the bosses. People paid them thousands to take off their clothes and touch themselves while they watched.

And this, and the influx of new talent the Crushers, now grown to more than a hundred core members, had brought in from all over, had pushed the profit margins up for Mercy's at an astonishing rate. Mercy's had in turn bought out the entire block it sat on, as well as the block across, and turned both into entertainment plazas. More sports bars, some nightclubs, an Imax theater, shops of various kinds, video game arcades, and even a family fun place called "King's." All of this hidden the under belly. A newly expanded Mercy's, with more pole, more girls and guys, more rooms, more bars, more servers, and more options than ever before. An adult boutique and store, video arcades, an adult spa, and a very successful porn studio.

Alex himself had been behind every single one of these ideas, and he always had more incoming. Now he had retired girls and guys in management, keeping them in the family and training the newcomers, while the Crushers, still recruiting, had also been shifted over to serve as protection for all of Mercy's. They were untouchable.

But their competition not so much.

Every single strip club, brothel, titty bar, adult store, porn palace, and other sex house in the city had either been purchased by the Russells at a ghastly low price, or they had been forced out of business and replace by Russell owned business. And Alex had been the key to all of this as well. He had also managed the same thing in Kansas City, both sides, Columbia and Jeff City, and Springfield, as well as several smaller towns throughout the Show-Me State. And the money just poured in. Being so centrally located, and hosting more and more events every year, the profits had grown and grown and grown, and now Alex was not worried about losing his job, but finding more ways to increase profit.

He was still worrying when the door opened and he whirled to find the exquisitely dressed Claudia Russell before him. He moved forward and carefully helped her remove her coat, not saying a word. Mrs. Russell said she rather liked him, but she didn't allow employees to speak to her until she had spoken first.

He carefully hung the coat up and stood by the door, waiting either for her husband to arrive, or for her to speak. She went to the desk, studied it's neat surface carefully, eying the pair of computer monitors, then turned the chair and sat in it.

Alex continued to watch her, but he still turned as Mr. Russell entered the room. Mr. Russell had not aged so much as a day from when they had first met, and Alex still could not help feeling nervous around him. He was taller and even fitter than Mr. Russell now, but he knew that the man before him was only more dangerous now than he had been eight years previously.

The gorgeous and voluptuous raven haired beauty behind the desk was likely even more so, and thus Alex still held his tongue, though he moved toward his boss, helping him with his coat and hat. It was raining tonight.

Russell gave both items to Alex and nodded as the young suited man hung them up respectfully and still held his tongue. When he had first started Alex had had a rather smart tongue that had nearly earned him Mrs. Russell's anger. He had learned much since then.

Russell turned toward the desk and Alex immediately moved to it, drawing another chair up beside Mrs. Russell's. Now she smiled. "Thank you Alex."

"My pleasure Mrs. Russell. How was your flight?"

"Abysmal. So much jostling i fear it ruined my hair."

"Impossible. Your hair is perfect as always Mrs. Russell." This was flattery, but no lie, as the stacked coils were rigidly perfect, just like the rest of her flawless face and body.

She smiled. "Flattery is it Alex? Did you break something?"

"No Mrs. Russell. Just speaking the truth. May I get you something? I have your favorite chilling to your preferred temperature."

She considered him for a moment. He was being very courteous and most respectful. (no one called her ma'am. Ever) His suit looked good enough and he had obeyed the rules. She nodded. "You may."

He bowed slightly and went to a blank wall, and pressed it, opening a hidden refrigerator. He drew out a wine chiller and a flute, and filled it nearly to the brim, then brought it over, laying it on a snow white napkin before stepping back.

She studied him and the wine, then leaned forward and inhaled softly. "The cork?"

"In the chiller Mrs. Russell. Shall I get it?"

"No." She gently cradled the glass and swirled the wine a touch then smiled and sipped it. She smiled even more. "You did get my favorite. Thank you Alex."

"Truly my pleasure Mrs. Russell. May I get you anything Mr. Russell?" Jerry had taken his seat as his wife was served, and was already combing through the ledger, the accounting seats, and the other financial data. He looked up and nodded. "yes. my favorite. Both."

Alex went to the fridge and first brought out the humidor. He clipped off the tip of the cigar then gave it and the lighter to his boss, before fetching a large beer mug and a bottle of creme soda. He opened it and poured it expertly and set this on a coaster before his boss. Mr. Russell confused him. He smoked like a chimney, but only cigars, and refused to imbibe any alcohol at all. Of course Alex himself didn't drink or smoke either, but Mr. Russell always seemed an enigma to him.

Once he had served them, he stepped back, shutting the fridge and the door to his office, locking the latter, and waited to be summoned.

Mr. Russell finished with the accounting sheets and slid them to his wife, who studied them just as carefully. her eyes flicked to Alex and she coughed slightly. he stepped forward. "Yes Mrs. Russell?"

"What's this purchase of a machine from Venture?"

"That is the new sex machine Mrs. Russell. A very impressive device. I know it is more expensive than the last one, but it's guaranteed to be more durable, it has more...fixtures, and comes with a lifetime repair or replacement warranty. I did pay the extra expenses out of my own salary to alleviate the burden."

She nodded at the answer, then tapped the next entry. "And this tripled order of lubrication?"

Alex nodded. "We had no choice Mrs. Russell. The ladies shows with the new machine have been so popular we've have to quadruple them. Meaning we've used much more lubrication. I've also had to hired some...specialists to ensure the ladies aren't hurt. That's the next entry. But the entry after that is the profit purely from that machine."

She glanced down then up at him her eyes wide. He nodded. "Increase of profits by some 200% Mrs. Russell. Also if you check the next four entries you will see similar figures for the men, though not as impressive."

She did so then looked up. "And your explanation?"

He bit his lips. "Mrs. Russell may i speak frankly?"

She nodded.

He nodded as well. "It seems that our clients who prefer males enjoy the machine used on themselves rather than the men. For health reasons we have to use a special fixture for the clients and a special power setting. We can't risk anything more. The more they use it the less our men can though. thus less profits from that, but I did note the tips we are given for the use of the machine. Still not quite as impressive, but i believe it should come very close. That's in the bottom entries."

She arched and eyebrow then looked and nodded impressed. "I see. Back to these specialists..."

"Four nurses, and two doctors who specialize in such matters. All six of whom used to work here at Mercy's and were part of my future education plan. They are very skillful and have lowered workplace injuries and accidents by more than 60%."

Mr. Russell spoke now. "And the street income?"

Alex bit his lip. "That is drying up somewhat sir. If you will recall our new mayor promised to clean up the streets. And he has been. So I've doubled the escort services, and I have more secure locations for the street workers, as well as better lawyers, but there is very little more I can do sir. He refuses to meet with me, or to be influenced by any of our friends. He also claimed he would close Mercy's down if I tried to contact him again."

He gulped as both Russell's looked at each other then at him. "When did he say this?"

"Not ten minutes before you arrived Mr. and Mrs. Russell. He was most adamant. I am not sure what I should do next, so I waited for your guidance." He also made it clear that he had not dared to break the no phones rule, and more importantly that the room they were in was clear.

The Russells studied him, then looked at each other again. They did not speak, but a silent conversation took place anyway. Then Mrs. Russell spoke. "Alex."

"Yes Mrs. Russell?"

"i want you to wait until we have left the city. We will send you a message when it is safe. Then you are to go collect the mayor."

He nodded waiting and taking note every detail of his orders.

"Once you have him you are to use your own impressive skills to convince him to retract his statement. He may either become or friend, or he shall have to be removed from office. Am i clear?"

"Yes Mrs. Russell. Any restrictions."

She considered this then spoke in a voice cold as the ice of her eyes. "No."

Three hours later, after fully inspecting the entire club, the rooms, and every corner of the complex, as well as short encouraging speech to all the employees, Alex received a call from a voice he didn't know that the Russells had boarded their private plane and taken off for San Francisco.

He said nothing and hung up. He would wait another two hours for them to clear Missouri airspace, then he would set to work. He did have some ideas.

As he planned he had an odd thought. He wondered what San Francisco was like. he shrugged it off and resumed planning, his eyes on his blank computer screens, his hands on the arms of his chair, showing nothing of the thoughts coursing through his mind.

 

[Yoshie]

Five Years Ago...​

Humans, always searching, always needing something, always wanting something, humans were never satisfied. People always wanted more no matter what you gave to them, what they achieved or accomplished. What was it that she was searching for? Happiness? Something so temporary but something that everyone was seeking. They say seek and you will find but the inevitable truth was that nothing was meant to provide happiness. Nothing was easy, you’d have to try hard… but it seems that even trying hard proved that even in times of great depression almost doesn’t count.



It was already hard enough to gain respect considering that Winry was black, well Asian African American. But still with a mixed breed like she… she commanded respect, she demanded it. She lived in the footsteps of her late husband. Why because it seemed that being nice never worked. He was loud, he was rude and most of all he got what he wanted. She took note of this, she took note that people hated and despised him but for some reason when he said jump they obeyed. When he commanded they did and it never came to violence because fear guided people to respect him. It was this that she learned. She wasn’t like this… it was a facade. It was a ploy to get what she wanted. She had everything, money, power and respect but there was still that void. That empty space in her heart. Had it become cold like his?



Winry always had a soft spot for those less fortunate or those that were discriminated against. Prejudice, something that defined the world, something that could kill someone who didn’t look or sound the same as someone else. No matter where you go, you cannot escape it. It seeps through the walls, it creeps through the cracks, you can’t go anywhere without the ones that know they’re weird having to watch their backs. Temptation was in Winry’s opinion the best club, the cleanest establishment, and a place where killers and corporate could share the same table, the same drink and toast the same glass. After all, killers and corporate were the same. They both kill; they are both poisons drinking the same poison.



Winry cared not for who was white or black, feline or canine. No, in her eyes they were all the same. Why? Because they had money. Money was green, money was power, and no matter how you look at it money won’t change no matter what hand it switches from. The hands would change but money always, always, stayed the same. She employed all no matter what the background, foreground, or bloodline. As long as you brought in customers, kept the peace and brought her money she was pleased. All of that racism, prejudice, and hatred was left at the door and if there was a hint of any it would be directed back where it came from. Winry wanted to own an Empire. She wanted to show those less fortunate and those that were discriminated against that they can have the same things that she has. She was determine to show the world that you can come from nothing and still end up with everything that you could want.

San Francisco​

In northern California, is a city on the tip of a peninsula surrounded by the Pacific Ocean and San Francisco Bay. It's known for its hilly landscape, year-round fog, iconic Golden Gate Bridge, cable cars and colorful Victorian houses. Winry now owned her own Night Club near the San Francisco Golden Gate Bridge. The night life was wonderful there as was the money. Part time however; and on special days she owned Passion. Named affectionately after Winry's sister Himiko Passion. The idea came from when Himiko visited Temptation and gave an idea to Seduction about her club.


"For special patrons willing to pay top dollar you can convince some of your strippers to make extra money on the side if they choose or you can bring in a whole new clientle." Passion said.


"What would we call it? I already have Temptation.---" Himiko cut her off...


"Passion... now you have Temptation... and Passion."


The stage was set and the ball was rolling. Himiko told her all about California and how the porn industry was ran. She also informed her of the Russel's.


Himiko taught Seduction everything she needed to know to be a good Entrepreneur and a good Mistress to her girls.


"The who?" Seduction stated.


"The Russel's... if you get too big... or if you get to powerful they will come see you on their own. When that day comes you'll be prepared."

 

[Greeneyed23]

The sisters were together when their phones rang.

The one involved in the world of sex for profit already was told that her preferred production company wanted to meet with her. And that they had been purchased by the Russells.

The club owner received a call from one of her employees. "Miss... I have two visitors waiting in your office...It's the Russell's." The employee sounded absolutely terrified.

~

Alex was sitting in the bar area of the club. Temptation didn't sound like a bad name, but he was worried about how the business was to be run.

He also hoped for their sake that the current owners didn't try to fight the Russell's on it. He knew all too well where to find those foolish enough to do so. Even here in San Francisco.

The Russell's didn't just destroy their foes, but also set them to repaying the inconvenience they had caused to the couple. What had been the most fashionable club owners now sold their bodies for as little as a few pennies on street corners, and counted themselves grateful to be given such mercy.

Alex was in one of his best suits. He knew he was not here to intimidate. The Russell's did that on his own. He was here to help the club become a full part of the Russell's empire. He just hoped he could make it happen peacefully.

 

[Yoshie]

Himiko instructed Winry on what to do; how to approach and what her stance should be. Himiko knew the power that the Russel's had but her inkling told her that Winry would soon rival them. Problem was; getting Winry to see that.
"Winny; I just got a proposition... I am supposing you did too?" Himiko asked.

"Yeah; they want to talk to me. Knuckles said they are waiting in the Skybox. One is at the bar."

"The Russel's!" They both said on Que.

"Listen... These people aren't just any people. They own the sex industry and will not take no for an answer."

"Yeah; but I am not one to just hand over my company so easily. I built this from the ground up and now that Passion is thriving as well---" Seduction was cut off by Himiko speaking.

"What if that's what they want?" Himiko asked.

"I'm sure we can come to an agreement." Winry said.

"Lets not keep our guests waiting."

Seduction took a quick wardrobe change; combed her hair out applied black lipstick and pulled out her best drink. Johnny Walker Swing. Himko smiled. That was their drink.

Winry approached the bar; handing the bottle to the bartender Mikan. Mikan wasted no time cleaning the area; new glasses; new coasters and fresh ice was laid out before them. The sisters sat on both sides of Alex. Both extended their hands at the same time.

"Hello there Innocent. I am known as Seduction. Winry Seduction and I am the owner of this here fine establishment. Would you care for a drink?" She said nodding at her sister.

"I am Himiko Passion... co-owner of Temptation and Passion. It's a pleasure to meet you." Himiko did a courteous bow. When she was finished she tapped the table signaling to Mikan that she wanted a shot of the Johnny Walker Swing.

Mikan took out three glasses for each of them. Filled one with three ice cubes since Himiko was not a drinker. Two for WInry and waited for Alex to give the Que on how many he wanted.

 

[Greeneyed23]

Alex studied them both, and sighed. "No thank you."

He had met many who thought they could challenge the Russel's since he had first arrived. He had learned to smell that foolish sense of bravado. The Russels did own the sex industry, but more importantly they were protected and backed by legal and criminal means he knew few could fathom, let alone imagine.

He also didn't like it when people tried to seduce or play him. He was nobody and their rather thin ploy annoyed him.

He studied them both. "So. Why are you delaying the meeting with the Russels to see me?"

 

[Yoshie]

Himiko and Winry looked at each other. Himiko always the short tempered of the sisters started to protest but Winry nodded her head. Himiko's face turned red, but she bit her tongue.
"I was just seeing to it that Seduction here got to meet you personally. Family comes first..after-all." Himiko said eyeing Winry. She didn't want to leave her sister alone with this man. From what she knew the Russel's were just as cold and ruthless as she was. Winry was an angel compared. Winry smiled at her sister.

"It's okay... Himiko."

"But they...will take it..."

"I'll make sure they don't" Winry gave her a stern look. "Just make sure you protect what's yours too." The girl's hugged each other and Himiko took her glass and left.

"I'll pay you back..."

"Sure..." Winry said. Her smile faded as she looked back at Alex. Gripping her Johnny Walker she spoke. "Now; what is so important that my sister had to take her drink and leave? We rarely get to drink together?" She said.

 

[Greeneyed23]

"I didn't kick her out. She seemed to kick herself out."

He studied her intently. "You seem to be trying to turn this into a conflict before things even truly begin. How can I help you miss?"

 

[Yoshie]

Winry eyed him. Trying to find any signs that he was what Himiko had warned her about. However rational beats emotional any day so she rested her shoulders and looked down into her cup.

"Listen, I don't know who you are and I am not in the market for judging. I don't mean to turn this into a conflict...I just want to know what your real intentions are. I am Seduction. Winry Seduction.... but you. You can call me Mistress. This is my establishment. Is it to your liking?" She said eyeing the man carefully. Her hand tensed on her glass as she took another sip.

 

[Greeneyed23]

"First of all i call no one Mistress. Second I am not one of the Russell's. They brought me to check up on this club before they take control of it. It's not to my personal tastes, but it is well managed and prepared and should suit their desires well. But if you want to still be breathing this time tomorrow, i would advise you use up your attitude with me rather than them. And keep your sister away from them both. They would not appreciate her humor."

 

[Yoshie]

Winry eyed the man, concentrating on his eyes. His zealous nature perturbed her. Her eyebrow raised as the man seemingly boasted about what his 'higher-ups' would do to her if she would not hand over her pride and joy. The man spoke as if these Russell people were so high and mighty that no one could touch them. Seduction scoffed as she took a sip of her drink and placed the glass gently back on its cup holder. Her red eyes held a calm rage. Her voice was soft at first but as she finished the sentence her teeth would be clenched.

"I don't give a damn who you are. Your name should be Harlequin coming in here with demands such as that one. So; let me guess, I'm suppose to hand over something I've worked years to build; from the ground up to... You?! Or these so called Russell people? And if I do not comply with your demands I won't be breathing this time tomorrow...correct?" Winry repeated his threat. "Himiko was right about you corporate bastards... anything that turns a profit you want your snotty white hands in it right? Well; how's this... the Asian side of me will memorize the entire United States Constitution to make sure you don't take what is mine... and the Black side of me will tell you to kiss my ass and try!"


A smile crept across her face, but in her heart she was scared. She knew nothing of the people he spoke of and honestly she just wanted to own her little piece of paradise and be left alone. However; him being in her establishment might cause problems with the new front she would soon be opening up. Winry began to think to herself. If only she told Himiko to hold off on opening their new place then maybe; maybe they wouldn't be in this situation.

 

[Greeneyed23]

Alex winced as the doors crashed open. He stood as the Russell's, and several of their more tactile employees, all very fit people, men and women, entered the club. With Himiko bound and gagged.

Alex started to speak but fell silent at a look from Mr. Russell.

Jerry moved forward puffing his thick cigar. He pointed this at Winry. "And my black side tells you to shut the fuck up little girl."

Alex immediately moved away from her. One of the others clubbed Himiko in the back of the knees, and Mrs. Russell grabbed the fallen girl's hair and twisted it, and held a blade to the girl's throat. "I've had enough of her ego dear. Let me kill them."

Alex gulped and opened his jacket revealing an extensive recording setup.

Jerry took another puff of his cigar. "Allow me to explain what will happen. you and your sister will sign all of your properties and rights to my corporation, or my lovely wife will quite enjoy slitting your throats, and we will buy them all at auction. And no you can't go to the police. Or the Feds. or the DA."

He gestured as two officers walked in and slapped a large file onto the bar beside Winry. They nodded respectfully to Mr. Russell then left. He gestured at the file. "Within you will find pending charges of health department violations, working rights violations, human slavery charges, and numerous charges of assault, attempted murder, child molestation, and pornography, as well as a few dozen others. Each names you and your sister as responsible parties and instigators. If you don't sign within ten minutes that file, which the police, DA, and feds and several other parties are about to receive, goes active. It won't matter much to you because you will be dead, but it will ensure that I can get this property cheap. Are there any questions?"

Alex caught Winry's eye and silently pleaded with her not to push it. He knew the Russell's would happily kill both women. They had done so much worse.

 

[Yoshie]

Winry's eyes gazed on her sister. At that moment all Seduction wanted to do was run away, hide and pretend this was all a dream. However the look on Himiko's face and Winry knew... she knew that they had lost.

"What is it that you desire?" She said trying to hold back her emotions. Winry wasn't one to back down easy however; in this situation her hands were pretty much tied.

"Winny No! Don't give up... this is your baby... don't mind me..."

Winry didn't look at her sister; the pain was too great. Her heart knew what her sister was about to say.

"Take me... instead of her club, all this was my idea... I can come up with it again... I can create something way better...you don't want this...Take me in exchange...Please." Himiko pleaded with the man.

Seduction's face was unmoved. Her body was tense. She was pissed but she showed no emotion. She'd be damned to give her attackers that much joy. "Humans...vile creatures. Always wanting something that they can't have... Greed was never my favorite sin." Winry commented. She still had her drink in her hand... what could be her last. Winry looked from the police to the man who initially started all of this. No emotion; just another sip of her drink.

"These paper's, these accusation's, the police, and the D.A? They're all in on it huh?" Winy played with the glass in her hand.

"Winny please... don't make them anymore mad; they'll kill us both! You don't know these people... what they can do."

Himiko was giving them all the emotion for the both of them but still Winry was not phrased. She crossed her legs left over right. Waiting for the answer to her question.

 

[Greeneyed23]

Jerry laughed and puffed his cigar. "Of course they are. They like sex too. This doesn't have to be painful. I am happy to keep you and your sister in place. You do good work. But you will pay the dues to me and my wife."

He sucked his cigar and blew a large blast of smoke into Himiko's face. "But this deal is offered only once. And is contingent on apologizing to my wife for assuming that Alex is part of our family. He is a fine employee but nothing further."

Alex actually sighed in relief at this. He knew all too well how petty and reactive Mrs. Russell could be regarding what she saw as slights upon her reputation and against her dignity.

Jerry smirked at Winry. "And if you think your camera's mics and other recording devices will help you..." A wild feedback sounded and everything went dark, then the lights came back on. Jerry Russell had a number of devices about his person that ensured he could never be recorded, successfully photographed, or in any way surveilled. This included three powerful electromagnetic magnetrons that blocked him from satellites, and made photographing him impossible. And of course he paid many people well to ensure it didn't happen anyway.

He smiled coldly at Winry. "Now. Do we have a deal? Or do you find out if this life is all there ever was?"

 

[Yoshie]

Winry sighed, defeated. She eyed the man and then scoffed. "I don't care... take it." Was all she could muster the energy to say. Her pride was broken, her sister was broken and seemingly this was the end. Not the way she imagined going out of course. But for her sister's sake she held her tongue.


"Camera's won't help; No, I wasn't even thinking of filming my degradation." She said sarcastically. This man was indeed a menace. Himiko hung her head; her silk black hair draping over her face. If only she had warned Winry sooner... or maybe... just maybe if they had never made such a lucrative business then. Himiko shook the thought from her mind. No one should be punished for making money. Finally lifting her head to look at her sister she mumbled to Winry.


"I'm sorry...."


Winry scoffed.


"This...is far from over." Was all that escaped from the former club owners lips.

 

[Greeneyed23]

Jerry smiled and gave signals to his people, and one moved forward with the necessary documents.

Alex sighed watching the two miserable sisters. He could tell them that the Russells had not even begun to set to work on their wickedness.

He moved toward the office as the Russells followed him. "Bring both women in. We have much to discuss."

Alex made sure everything was laid out how they would like it, and pulled the chairs out behind the desk for them, then stepped back, careful to let no sign of his feelings escape his control.

 

[Yoshie]

"There aint shit to---"


Winry nudged her sister.


Himiko's face was furious. She was not angry with herself. She was angry for her sister. Winry's face was unphrased but Himiko knew... she knew that her sister was broken as well. Winry however would not give her attackers the satisfaction of seeing her cry. She would not give them what they so desperately craved.


"Just sign the stupid papers... they can have it all... we will be fine sis. We can make something better; bigger and somewhere where these bastards won't reach it!"


"Don't agitate them any further..." Was all Winry could say. She didn't want them to know of her plans. Her ideas. They could take her club; they'll never take her pride and her ideas. She was a marvel business woman. She would make money again.

 

[Greeneyed23]

Russell smirked. "The papers contain contracts. To serve as our managers here. And also a twenty year non-compete clause. They are mandatory parts of this deal."

Alex did not react visibly. No one could compete with the Russells anyway, but that twenty years business was just cruel. His face was a stone mask but he truly felt for these poor women. They were trapped and knew it.

 

[Yoshie]

Himiko looked at her sister; defeated. Once she heard the contract restraints she looked at her sister in fear. Winry didn't speak up so Himiko did it for her.

"Wait... so you ain't taking the club? You are making us work here with you?" Himiko scoffed. "It's better if you just take it and let us go. I promise we won't bother you..." Winry toyed with her nails. She had heard about merging companies but nothing like this. This was tyranny. Winry grit her teeth yet showed no emotion. Himiko hung her head waiting for an answer. "So, not only are you robbing us of our establishment but you are making us slaves...? Do you not see the skin color we are---" Winry scoffed at her and then finally spoke.

"Do not try to win these people over with empathy. They don't care." Was all she managed to say.

 

[Greeneyed23]

Jerry held out his own dark hand. "Do you not see the skin color I am? As I see it it's just fate that you are to fall under my power."

He gestured at the contracts. "Now sign it and have done."

The one who had been holding the papers held out a pen.

Alex watched silently. If these women didn't stop stalling they would be punished. Mrs. Russel was growing impatient. She was swirling her drink in a way that made him very nervous. He carefully moved out of her path and line of sight, but near at hand should she call for him.

 

[Yoshie]

Winry took the pen from the man. There was hate in her eyes. How could someone the same color as she and her sister even fathom to do this to one of their own? She could not wrap her mind around it. She needed Johnny... She craved Johnny. The moment this was all over she would open up her bottle that she had been saving... and drink it... drink it all. Hopefully the poison from the alcohol would numb the pain that she felt. And; if she was lucky she would not wake up the next morning.

The pen moved across the paper like blood cascading down the side of a teenager's wrist. She slid the paper along the desk.

"Are we done? Can we leave? It's yours... I won't even say goodbye. I'll leave this state and be out of your hair by first light." Winry said. Himiko didn't sign. She couldn't sign. Nothing in here was hers. It was just an idea given to an older sister to make real.

 

[Greeneyed23]

Jerry smirked. "Even try and you will be dragged back in handcuffs. That contract is also one of employment. If you fail to appear according to your now formally agreed too schedule or refuse to work you will be found in breach of contract and as you are now not possessed of any viable funds, as all your assets are now subject to control of this corporation, you will repay the corporation through work."

He pointed at Himiko. "You will sign as well. To protect your sister. Sign now."

Alex spoke now. "Miss Winry may I speak with you?"

 

[Yoshie]

Himiko's eyes welled up with tears. Seduction's face broke only for a moment as her eyebrows met and her fist clenched together. Winry then shrug it off; she turned up her nose to the man. She heard every word he said... everything she owned now belonged to him.

"Fine..."

Himiko couldn't imagine what was going through her sister's mind. This entire time Winry was agreeing with everything and not once showing any type of emotion about the things that she had once owned and worked tirelessly to keep. Himiko had no choice. She picked up the pen... her hand now trembling. It was as if the young girl was signing her life away. But in a sense the pain was all the more unbearable seeing as though it was her sister's life that was being taken.

Alex had called out to Winry. In that moment both of the girls looked like twins the way their red eyes shot daggers at Alex. Winry nodded and walked past Jerry. Her head held high. She would not let the likes of that man break her so easily. Winry was a strong one. Her will knew no bounds and Pride was her biggest sin.

Winry folded her arms and looked back at Himiko who was probably ear hustling the conversation anyway.

"Yes, Innocent?" She answered. Still keeping her posture.

 

[Greeneyed23]

Jerry grinned as Himiko signed. "Now sit. We have much to discuss about the pornographic industry. To begin with you are now scheduled for a number of public appearances, and you will now resume work, and you will make at least fifteen new films in the next years, as well as some other work."

Mrs. Russell nodded. "Have you been recently checked?"

Alex gently drew Winry a bit further away. "I will not ask if you are alright. But we must discuss business. As impressive as this place is you were making only a fraction of what you could have been. We have to discuss the maximizing of profit." He nodded at the others. "They will insist. If you can bear i would like to go into the club proper to discuss things."

 

[Yoshie]

Winry folded her arms; she did this as she looked at him. "You don't get it do you?" She looked around. "It isn't about the money. I know what my club could bring in. I did the numbers prior to opening. It's about the clientele, and the customers. It's about keeping them happy. Keep them happy and they'll keep coming back. Keep em coming back and now not only do you have a decent and stable income but you have a good reputation." She sighed.

Meanwhile Himiko signed the document and as Ms. Russel asked her that question. She blushed. "Recently checked for what...? I...I'm not...I've never had..." She stopped her sentence and looked away. Himiko fiddled with her hair. She was embarrassed to tell the woman that she was a virgin. Himiko was a very good business woman. Too good sometimes since she had never had the time to have a social life besides of that with her sister. Himiko just sighed. "I'm not as experienced as my sister...She's been married."

 

[Greeneyed23]

Alex rolled his eyes not impressed with her condescension. "Two of the clubs i run are half the size of yours, and boast higher numbers across the board. Including regular customers, as well as VIPs who pay extra for their special privileges. You're so busy being snooty and untouchable you've let the business end drop off." He was getting irritated with her superior attitude because no matter what she believed this wasn't his fault, this was happening, and if she didn't listen to him, the Russells would make things over their way, which would be sure to include the destruction of everything she had done, just to send a message to her.

Mrs Russell smiled. "Oh my dear that's not the point. You still must be checked. And the contract still stipulates the films. We can discuss whether you'll actually get..fucked, but that's a moot point. You are a sought after commodity, and will be sold accordingly."