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The silver haired male stared expressionless at the large mansion in front of him. It was bigger than any he had ever seen, yet it was clearly not in the best condition. The grey walls were covered with fern and moss, and weeds overran the whole place. Everything was dull and lifeless, colours on bright flags and shiny statues had long faded into the remains of dust and ruins.
"This vampire certainly doesn't like housekeeping..."
Well that was to be expected. From what he heard from the villagers, Joseph Desaulniers, the owner of the mansion, vampire count, lived alone. However, that itself seemed strange to the exorcist. Most vampires he's met before, and exorcised, all had human attendants at their beck and call. The strange chemical that vampires inject into their human victims when they bite renders them helpless with no free will, at the mercy of their vampire masters.
And that's where the Exorcist came in, though he is also known as a vigilante. He was well versed in mythical creatures, and knew several ways to exterminate them. Thus, people could hire him to exorcise these entities. No task proved too difficult to him, especially for the right price.
However, nagging suspicions tugged at the back of his mind. When he came to the village, the village chief came to talk to him about the problems that "the malicious blood sucker" has brought to them. Chickens and lambs being stolen or having their blood sucked out, people going missing, never to be found again, and a strange sickness that was passing through the village. All of which, as far as the exorcist knew, were not very vampire like traits. While some of it sounded plausible, the paranoia that showed clearly in the eyes of each of the passing villagers had made the exorcist wonder if there was truly any vampire at all.
At least, that was until he received the letter.
Dear Aesop Carl,
I have received word that you will be visiting my mansion tomorrow. Although this is quite the surprise visit, I shall welcome you with open arms. The gates will be open for you, so please enter whenever you wish. I will be waiting for you with a grand feast.
Sincerely,
Joseph Desaulniers, Count of the Desaulniers Mansion
Either this was all a huge, elaborate prank, or the exorcist was in deep trouble. No one knew his birth name except for his parents and mentor. Names were powerful things, and you didn't simply reveal it to any simple passerby, for fear that it would be used against you one day. However, this vampire not only knew his name, he was also steadfastly revealing his own.
"Joseph Desaulniers...you're an interesting one. If you're hoping to make me lower my guard, then I'm afraid you'll need to try harder than that. Just by this letter, I can sense the sheer amount of power you have. You've made a fatal mistake, and I shall punish you for it."
Aesop mumbled under his breath, voice muffled through his thick mask, trying to ignore the slight tightening of his chest and his trembling knees. It has been such a long time since he felt intimidated by his prey.
Yet, he boldly pushed open the rusty iron gates, which creaked eerily. No point trying to sneak in, Joseph was already aware of his presence, and was likely already watching him now. All Aesop could do was to hide whatever weapons he had and do his best to act natural. It was daytime, so he had the upper hand.
He continued walking down the stone pathway to the front entrance. That's when he noticed something strange happening around his feet. Young saplings were starting to sprout where ever he set foot on, and the fresh green leaves seemed to be giving him a wave.
"What in the-"
Aesop had never seen anything of the like. Could all vampires do this? Or was it something unique to this one? Either way, the exorcist found himself struggling to keep a straight face when all the newly born plants started plastering themselves on his black shoes, as if they didn't want him to leave.
Nearing the entrance, one more plant started to emerge from the soil, but it grew much taller than the rest of its sapling peers. Aesop stared in amazement as a bud formed, which swiftly bloomed into a bright yellow rose. It bowed towards the young male, as if asking him to take it.
"Is this a trap? Perhaps there is poison on the flower stalk?"
However, he sensed no malicious intent at all. Aesop hesitantly reached out and plucked the flower at its stem. Nothing happened. He shrugged and kept the yellow rose stalk in his bag. He had to keep up the act. He raised his hands to open the doors, but they swung themselves open for him, as if welcoming him in.
"Is this really supposed to be a vampire?" The exorcist wondered to himself. Even if this was a ploy, it seemed all too friendly.
He walked in with cautious footsteps, sharpening all his senses to catch even the slightest movement, or perhaps a scent of blood or death. However, only the savoury aroma of turkey flooded his nose.
That's when he heard a melodic voice echo down from the second floor, and he almost jumped in fright.
"Welcome, dear Aesop Carl. It's a pleasure to have you in my home today, I rarely get visitors~ Everyone seems much too afraid of me."
The soothing and charismatic voice of Joseph Desaulniers, owner of this run down mansion, vampire count, and apparently, quite the welcoming host, was almost relaxing to hear.
"I'm afraid I cant come down to meet you for now, the sun is a little too bright. I'm sure you understand the struggles of a vampire such as I. Please make yourself at home, I'll come meet you at sundown."
That's when the exorcist noticed that the mansion had large windows that allowed bright sunlight to wash in. Most vampires constructed their living space such that light would never enter, so this was surprising to say the least. Sure, there were blinds, but they were drawed open, almost as if to make his guest feel more at ease. Aesop was stunned. What was this vampire thinking? Furthermore, was he really just going to let a stranger roam freely around his house? Even this emotionless vigilante had to admit, he felt like he was intruding. He pondered his choices. He could wait for the vampire to make his appearance, and keep up his act for longer, make the vampire lower his guard even more. Or he could sneak up to his room now...and-
Was that really alright?
The exorcist shook his head. No, this was exactly what the vampire was aiming to achieve. If he waited, he would surely be attacked at sundown. Joseph was a powerful vampire, he surely had tons of tricks up his sleeves, and this was one of them. The young male strengthened his resolve. It was now or never.
He lit the incense hooked on his belt. It was something used to mask the scent of humans. Even if he was being tracked, it didn't hurt to be just a little bit stealthy. He made sure the holy water was ready to be taken out at a moments notice. Lastly, he ensured his Holy Sword was hidden from sight, but within reach. It was the most powerful weapon he had. A single touch could extinguish any supernatural being into dust. A gift from his mentor, it had finished the mission multiple times for him, and it would again this time.
Aesop walked silently up the stairs, every step making no sound. No reaction so far. Vampires were nocturnal, so hopefully his target was asleep. He continued walking with the utmost caution. Looking left and right, trying to locate where the voice emanated from initially. However, it wasn't difficult. Despite the hundred of rooms along every dark corridor, there was one that was much grander than the rest, with large red doors that were twice his height. Clearly, this is where the vampire count slept.
Aesop pushed the doors open gently. They were well lubricated, making no noise, and that was to his advantage. He glanced at the king sized bed in the middle of the room, and froze. Not because in amazement of how beautiful the room was. Not because of fear that seeped into his heart when he saw those large red wings that expanded to thrice his shoulder length. But because of how astoundingly beautiful the figure sleeping on the bed was.
The vampire was like a sleeping angel, albeit with large red wings rather than white, feathery ones. He had very pale skin, yet his cheeks were dusted with pale pink, breathing life into his entire form. Long, white, wavy locks flowed down like a stream, glowing like a halo. His eyelids were closed, which made his long white eyelashes all the more obvious. And those strawberry pink lips...which looked oh so soft.
Aesop had to mentally snap himself out of his daze. The beauty that laid in front of him was simply that mesmerising, yet he had a task at hand. He had been paid to do this, he couldn't stop now. Besides, this vampire was clearly extraordinarily powerful, it wouldn't be safe for such a creature to roam about freely anyway.
Gritting his teeth and with a heavy heart, the exorcist unsheathed his Holy Sword. Straight through the heart. Straight through the heart. Straight through the-
Just as he was about to stab downwards into the empire's chest, baby blue orbs met red and black ones. They were glazed and unfocused, likely due to just waking up. However, the instant they registered the object in the exorcist's hands, Aesop felt a powerful force knock him backwards.
Flying, the masked male collided with the wall, back absorbing all the impact, almost snapping his neck in the process. He was sure his spine cracked. The sound of metal falling to the ground echoed through the room. Shit, he messed up big time. Groaning, he blinked away his darkening vision in an attempt to look at the vampire, but all he could see was a blur of red and blacks.
"I invited you into my house, welcomed you with open arms, and this is the treatment I get?"
The voice sounded muffled to Aesop, and he could barely make out the words through the sharp ringing of his eardrums, yet he could clearly discern the hurt and betrayal in his tone.
He felt a movement from the vampire, footsteps getting louder, he was approaching. Aesop tensed up all his muscles, he needed to run. Somehow, somewhere. He couldn't let himself die here. However, he couldn't even twitch a finger. Was it because of the pain? Or was the count manipulating his body? Either way, the exorcist was helpless.
He could only accept his fate now.
The soft shift of metal alerted him that Joseph had picked up his sword. He felt the cool flat end of his own blade lift his chin up to face the winged creature.
"A Holy Sword, hm? I knew you had one, but I didnt think you would be foolish and heartless enough to attack me in the midst of my slumber. You are quite rude. Well, it is quite the beautiful blade. I suppose its mine now."
Aesop could only hiss faintly in response. His lungs hurt and he could barely breathe, much less make a move on the much more powerful vampire.
Joseph sighed, and made a twirling motion with his hand.
"Sleep."
And the world faded to black.
.
.
.
When the exorcist forced his heavy eyelids open, he was met with an unfamiliar surrounding. A medium sized room, although not that grand, was still quite well decorated. Red walls with gold etchings on them, a study table, and quite a large bed with the softest mattress and fluffiest blanket he had ever slept in. It would've been quite nice to stay here, lest for the fact that his hands were handcuffed together and chained loosely to the wall. It wasn't too tight such that it would cause bruising or pain, unless he struggled, and its only purpose seemed to be preventing Aesop from leaving the room. His mask had been removed too.
How did he get here in the first place? The last thing he could remember was that the vampire count of the mansion, Joseph, had taken his Holy Sword, and put him to sleep. That means he was still at the mansion, and he needed to leave. He had no idea why Joseph didn't kill him on the spot, but he wasn't about to think too much into it, he had to find a way to escape.
He heard light footsteps approaching his room, and instinctively tried to get off the bed to get into a ready stance. However, the instant he tried to do that, a sharp pain shot through his back and he fell back onto the soft bed, groaning and hissing through his teeth.
The footsteps stopped for a moment, before picking up at a faster pace. The door flew open to reveal the vampire, donning a much grander black inner shirt, pants, and a delicately made red dress coat. His eyes were back to a pale blue, widened with a hint of concern.
"Are you okay?"
Joseph sounded genuinely worried, with his eyebrows furrowed together, and a pained expression. In his hands held a shiny silver tray, a bowl of porridge balanced on top, still steaming hot.
Then, as if remembering something, he pressed his lips together, and stood even straighter.
"Well, it serves you right for trying to attack me. Maybe you will think twice before trying to kill a sleeping vampire now."
All the exorcist could do was stare in bewilderment. Just what was up with this vampire? He had never met a single one like him before, that seemed so...amiable. Even if it was all a charade, wasn't this a little too much?
"Why don't you just kill me then?"
Joseph winced at the harsh tone, and bit his own lip with his short fangs. He placed the tray down on the study table, and elegantly sat down on the wooden chair, tucking in his red and black wings. Twirling his white wavy locks, he spoke in a purposefully nonchalant tone.
"Well...I have no interest in killing. The mere thought of blood disgusts me."
A vampire that hated blood? Did this count take him for a fool? The exorcist would never fall for such a poor lie. He pulled on his handcuffs in clear frustration
"Then release me. If you do not wish to kill me, then you have no reason to keep me here."
Joseph turned his cold blue gaze towards the exorcist, eyes narrowing in a glare.
"And let loose someone who can kill me at anytime? I think not. I am much safer where I can keep my sights on you."
Aesop was just about to bark out another remark, but he couldn't open his mouth. Literally. The vampire count had shut him up with magic.
"You talk too much. You should be grateful I'm even letting you keep your pathetic life."
Grateful? This vampire had already stripped him of all his dignity. He would really rather just die at this point.
However, if he still had his life, that means he still had to complete his mission. He needed to be patient for now, and wait for an opportunity to rebel. He would turn this vampire's naivety in his favour.
He felt something like his lips and flinched back. When he snapped back to attention, the vampire count had silently slipped right in front of him and was sitting on the edge of of the bed. A spoon of porridge was right in front of his mouth, while Joseph's porcelain white face was mere inches from his own, long white locks almost going to brush against him.
"Sorry, is it too hot-"
The vampire count cut himself off when their eyes met, neither able to tear their gazes away from each other's starstruck irises.
They stayed that way for what felt like hours, before at last, Aesop blinked, and the spell was broken.
The exorcist's face felt warm. He wasn't sure why. Had the vampire enchanted him with some sort of spell? That can't be right, if it truly was a spell, Aesop surely wouldn't have been able to break out it so easily. Besides, the vampire count's cheeks also seemed a little more flushed than before.
Vampires could blush?
No, focus. Losing a clear sense of thought right now could be fatal for the exorcist. He tried opening his mouth. Apparently, the distraction had made the vampire unable to keep up the spell. That means Aesop had a chance of manipulating the vampire into freeing him.
"Why are you feeding me?"
Joseph raised an eyebrow, cocking his head to one side.
"Well, I don't think you'd be able to feed yourself like this, would you?"
He gestured to the iron handcuffs around the exorcist's wrists with a long white fingernail. Aesop rolled his eyes.
"I meant. Why are you feeding me, a prisoner?"
Blue eyes blinked slowly, with a look of confusion.
"Well, I can't have you die, can I?"
Aesop narrowed his eyes in suspicion. Despite all the hospitality he had received, ignoring the fact that his hands were immbolised, he still couldn't bring himself to trust the taller vampire count. As an exorcist, he had seen countless people being tricked by these sly creatures, and he didn't intend to become one of them.
"Come on, eat up. Don't waste anymore of my time."
Aesop looked at the bowl of steaming white chicken porridge in the vampire's hand, and the spoonful in the other, suspicion clear in his gaze.
"It's not poisoned, mind you."
Joseph was clearly irritated at the lack of trust the human had in him, but could Aesop really be blamed? He hesitantly opened his mouth, and the spoon was instantly shoved in, almost making him gag. What he didn't expect, was that the the chicken porridge was strangely delicious. He couldn't help widening his eyes in surprise. When he looked up, he met with Joseph's smug expression.
"I'm a good cook, aren't I?"
Aesop refused to say anything to that comment, and just obediently let himself be fed by the vampire count, who seemed to be quite pleased for some reason.
And for the next few days, this routine continued. The exorcist woke up every morning, and was spoonfed three meals by his mortal enemy everyday, and went back to sleep. The vampire always tried to make casual conversation, but Aesop either never gave a full reply or shut him down quickly. However, the beautiful count never seemed disheartened. If anything, Aesop would say that Joseph found amusement in his behaviour.
It has been around a week, or was it two? It was hard to keep track when the exorcist was practically bedridden. His spine had miraculously healed completely, definitely because of the vampire's magic. At this point, Aesop had no idea what to think. There had been multiple occasions where the vampire count could have easily killed him, tortured him, suck his blood or simply let him starve, yet here he was once again, patiently feeding him and blabbering on about topics of no interest.
Was Aesop wrong the whole time? Does this vampire truly just have a distaste for blood? Could he really trust someone who was biologically made to be a predator of humans?
As he was questioning himself while chewing on his food, he careless bit down on his tongue.
"Gah-"
The taste of iron filled his mouth, and he wanted to gag. It was merely a trickle of blood, so Aesop knew the wound wasn't too deep. He glared at Joseph, expecting the vampire count to tease his clumsiness, only to be met with glazed and unfocused eyes.
"Jos-"
He was forced down onto the bed, strong arms pinning him by the shoulders. He was taken by surprise, what was going on? He looked up at the vampire above him, pale lips curled back and sharp fangs bared.
Aesop knew he couldn't trust a vampire.
The exorcist smirked. "So you were lying. You're so thirsty for blood you completely lost all composure."
He stuck his tongue out.
"C'mon, you want a taste of it, don't you?"
Aesop didn't know why he was almost inviting the vampire to suck his blood, it was probably just some show of how he was right all along. Not the most logical idea, but rather an action ruled by emotion.
Saliva was rolling out of Joseph's mouth, and he was clearly trembling, yet he made no further move. His long white fingernails digging into Aesop's clothing.
"Shut...up...I don't...want it."
Joseph's voice came out with much difficulty, every word seeming like he was about to tear his own throat out. He was panting heavily, clearly suffering because of his own resistance. With much effort, he finally pried himself away from the bleeding human, and quickly flew out of the room, wooden door slamming shut.
All Aesop could do was lie there breathlessly. He pressed a finger to his tongue, observing the small droplet of ruby red blood.
He knew what to do now.
However, his plan couldn't come into fruition that quickly, for the vampire was much more cautious now. While the exorcist was asleep, Joseph had released his handcuffs, and had locked the door instead. He never entered the room anymore, only opening it occasionally to slip in a meal, which Aesop could eat by himself now.
Aesop observed patiently for a few days, memorizing when the vampire count would give him his meals, when he would be at his hungriest, when he was at his weakest state. He would wait for the perfect moment to strike.
The day came. Today, instead of immediately leaving after giving Aesop his meal, Joseph remained on the other side of the door.
His voice came soft, barely above a whisper.
"I'm sorry for keeping you here like this...I shall release you if you so wish. However, you can be sure that I will never let you in again."
Aesop sat on the other side of the door, not touching his meal, merely picking at his heavy black boot.
"Why? Are you afraid of going feral?"
No response. That was as clear an answer as any. And that meant that it was getting harder and harder for Joseph to resist the taste of human blood, namely, Aesop's blood. Even though the exorcist still didn't quite understand why the vampire was holding himself back, he would follow through with his plan no matter what. A mission was a mission.
"Then you shouldn't have kept me here in the first place, no? A powerful vampire such as yourself could easily kill me, or even kick me out and forbid me from ever entering with your magic, if you truly so wished. Why make things difficult for yourself?"
There was a few seconds of silence, before Joseph once again replied from the other side of the door.
"Perhaps...I merely wanted a companion."
Aesop took off his boot, and quietly slipped out a hidden silver dagger. It wasn't as powerful as his Holy Sword, but it would still do the work. He stared at it gleaming slightly in the dim lighting. Once again, he questioned himself if this was really alright. Joseph...he was a true blood vampire alright, and an extremely powerful one at that. However, he had never hurt him on purpose, or even sucked his blood for the matter. Could he really exorcise a vampire who has done nothing wrong thus far?
He bit his lip, breaking skin and drawing blood. This wasn't part of the plan, but the exorcist couldn't quite control his feelings. As he raised his dagger over his palm, he felt something in his heart shift.
'I don't want to kill Joseph.'
A slash across his palm, and a bright scarlet line formed across his pale skin. He grimaced in pain as more and more blood started flowing out. He pressed his hand on his neck, smearing his own blood over tender skin, hiding the dagger behind his back.
'But I must.'
"Joseph...I hurt myself..."
He heard a flurry of movement from the other side, before the door opened sharply.
"Aesop? What happ-"
Right into his trap.
Aesop swiftly grabbed the velvety red fabric and pulled, forcing Joseph to fall on top of him. He then placed a hand on the back of Joseph's head, feeling his soft white hair beneath his fingers, and pushed it towards his neck.
"You want it, don't you?"
The exorcist didn't have to look to know that the vampire was once again hypnotised by the scent of his blood. He could feel his thirst.
"Stop..."
The moment Joseph uttered that single word, the sweet aroma entered his mouth. He wanted it. He wanted to bite this human's neck and suck out all his blood. He opened his mouth.
Aesop felt quick hot breaths on his neck, which was quite distracting to be honest. But he kept a clear mind, and readied the silver dagger in his free hand. The instant Joseph bit down, would be the instant he died.
However, no matter how much time passed, those sharp fangs never broke through his soft flesh. Instead, Aesop felt some sort of liquid drip down onto his neck. Drool? No...
The exorcist looked down, only to be met with the tear filled eyes that were a swirl of red and blue. The vampire was all ready to bite down, with fangs bared and ready to pierce skin, but for some reason, Joseph just refused to do move a muscle.
"...What are you doing?"
Joseph couldn't respond. He knew that the moment he said anything, he would give in. And he did not want to hurt anyone, especially not the human underneath him.
"Why do you resist your urge for blood? Isn't it against your nature?"
More tears rolled down his pretty porcelain face. He was suffering, even Aesop could see that. And at that point, Aesop could no longer take it. There was something about this vampire, something about Joseph, that made what was left of his cold heart warm just a little. Perhaps it was the silly welcome he gave when Aesop first entered the mansion, or maybe it was all the kindness Joseph showed him, even though the exorcist was a mortal enemy. Whatever the reason, the exorcist realised, he could no longer bring himself to hurt Joseph.
After a pause, he threw the silver dagger to the side. Joseph didn't even flinch. Aesop sighed. The vampire was much too intelligent to be fooled by a simple trick, he knew it was a trap, yet the kindness in his heart still made him unable to ignore Aesop's plead for help, preventing him from hurting even a single hair on the young exorcist.
Aesop gave up, and closed his eyes.
"You just don't want to hurt anyone, do you?"
There was a soft whimpering sound that emitted from Joseph's throat, similar to a small puppy, which made Aesop's heart melt a little. What a foolish and naive vampire, he had such strong powers that everyone, humans and vampires alike, would fear, yet he still chose to never hurt anyone, even though it was hurting himself. The exorcist couldn't help but feel a flicker of admiration.
"Joseph. Drink my blood. I want you to."
No movement. This vampire truly had a strong resolve. But Aesop had already made his decision.
"Joseph...I've never met any other vampire like you, who's so sweet and selfless. But here I'm telling you, I want you to take my blood. It won't hurt me too much, more importantly, I just want you to be relieved of your pain."
He heard quiet sniffles and couldn't resist a small smile. How cute.
"Besides...you wanted a companion right? Then let this be our oath...and I swear to stay with you, forever."
"Why..."
Joseph never finished his sentence, because he finally gave in, and sank his fangs into Aesop's tender flesh. He gasped a little in pain, but he could take it. He had experienced worse before, and this time, he was doing it for someone he cared about, which he had never felt before. Aesop felt heat pulse through his entire body, surely an effect from the blood sucking. It was uncomfortable, yet strangely euphoric, and the young human almost felt like he wouldn't mind if Joseph took hit blood everyday.
At least...not as much as he was taking right now. Aesop grimaced at the thought of how long Joseph had been sucking his blood now. However, the exorcist understood he would probably be thirsty after so long of not consuming human blood, especially since he had actively resisted it a few days ago. Thus, no matter how worn out this makes Aesop, he would gladly let Joseph take all he needed.
Finally, the vampire's blood red eyes returned to their normal baby blues and he stared apologetically at the fragile human he cradled in his arms.
"I'm sorry...I-I couldn't stop myself and-"
Aesop pressed a finger to the vampire's now bloodied lips and smiled weakly.
"I told you, I'm fine....just...a little exhausted."
Joseph returned the smile with his own gentle one as he carefully picked up Aesop and carried him close to his own body, large black and red wings enveloped them in an extra layer of warmth.
"Are you sure you won't regret your decision, my dear Aesop? Forever is a very long time, especially with an immortal vampire."
Aesop shook his head slightly. "I stick by my words, Joseph. And...I trust you."
Just those simple words made the vampire's dead heart flutter a little. Is this what being with someone feels like? If so, then he never wanted to part with his precious human.
Gently, Joseph bridal carried Aesop, but to the exorcist's surprise, it was not to his guest room bed. Instead, the vampire went out the door and walked to his own grand room. All the way there, Aesop would catch Joseph often sneaking glances at him, and he would look away and pretend to idly twirl the loose white strands of Joseph's wavy hair, not quite able to meet those beautiful eyes.
When they finally reached the vampire's room, Joseph laid Aesop down on the soft bed, and tucked him in the downy blanket.
"Lie down with me, Joseph."
The vampire seemed surprised by this invitation, blue orbs widened with wonderment, but Aesop clearly wouldn't take no for an answer. Joseph quickly got in bed beside the exorcist, making sure he was a certain distance apart so as not to scare him. However, that was unnecessary, because Aesop quickly scooted over to embrace the vampire, burying his head in the taller man's chest. If Joseph had a beating heart, he was sure it would be racing now.
The vampire gently caressed the soft grey hairs pressed against his chin, rubbing small circles in Aesop's back with his other hand. With their bodies so close together, he could feel every single movement of the human's body, as well as the warmth that flowed into his own cold skin. He had never felt anything like this before, and Joseph was happy that it was Aesop who showed him such acceptance. The exorcist said he was special, but in Joseph's eyes, the human's courage and concealed kindness is what made Aesop much more unique.
Perhaps, this was the start of a whole new discovery. He gently pressed his lips on Aesop's forehead.
"Goodnight, Joseph."
"Sweet dreams, mon amour."