Dimitri Mikhailov

> “Go on little one, there is nothing to be afraid of.”
>
> Dimitri to Matthew, Venom & Blood

**Dimitri Mikhailov**, was born to Victor and Polina Mikhailov on May 7th, 1898 (7:27pm) just outside of Moscow, Russia. He is a protagonist in *Venom & Blood* and the eventual romantic interest of Matthew Kinley.

## Biography

### Early Life

Dimitri Mikhailov was born on May 7th, 1898, on a farm just outside Moscow, Russia, to Victor and Polina Mikhailov. He grew up with his two younger twin sisters, Anna and Angelina, born in 1911 when Dimitri was 13. While little is known about his childhood, it is assumed he led a typical life, helping his family with their farm.

### Adolescence & Adulthood

By the age of 17, Dimitri had outgrown his family in height. He joined the forestry industry as a lumberjack, utilizing his impressive stature and robust build to excel at his job. He consistently sent his earnings to support his beloved family, whom he cherished above all else.

### Transformation

One fateful day, upon returning home, Dimitri discovered his entire family brutally slaughtered by a vampire named Stefan, who was feasting on their blood. Overwhelmed by rage and vengeance, Dimitri confronted Stefan, attempting to kill the vampire. However, Stefan's supernatural speed and strength made it impossible for Dimitri to prevail, despite his imposing size.

Surprisingly, Stefan saw potential in Dimitri and decided to transform him into a vampire instead of ending his life. After rendering him unconscious and biting him, Stefan carried Dimitri to his secret hideaway, where the transformation would continue to take place. Dimitri awoke without any recollection of his previous human existence or the recent events. Stefan chose to withhold the truth, opting instead to educate Dimitri about his new vampiric nature.

### Vampire Life

For around forty years, Dimitri and Stefan roamed Russia and parts of Europe together. Stefan served as Dimitri's mentor, imparting extensive knowledge about the life of a vampire, with very few restrictions. However, he imposed one rule: never reveal their true nature to humans unless intending to kill them. Dimitri adhered to this directive and admired Stefan as his leader.

Over time, Dimitri experienced sporadic flashbacks of his human life, initially minor and insignificant. But one day, his memories resurfaced, revealing the gruesome murder of his family by Stefan. Confronting Stefan, Dimitri insisted on the truth, leading to a violent altercation. Due to Dimitri's superior strength, he emerged victorious, prompting Stefan to confess his guilt in the murders. He claimed that he had transformed Dimitri to offer him a better life. Furious, Dimitri killed Stefan in retribution for his family's injustice.

Dimitri spent nearly a decade as a solitary vampire in Russia, disenchanted with the Soviet state's policies and mistreatment of its citizens. In 1972, he made the life-altering decision to relocate to the United States, specifically New York City. There, he stumbled upon the Merlot Coven, joining them for protection. Dimitri shared little about his past with the coven, leading to suspicion. Nevertheless, his imposing size and strength were valued by the group.

## Venom & Blood

At the commencement of the novel, Dimitri's whereabouts are unknown. We first meet Dimitri when he discovers a newborn Matthew Kinley. Dimitri becomes the first to introduce him to the Merlot Coven and their nightclub, "*The* *Vault*."