#⋆♱⋅⟡⋅♱⋆ Always The Hunter Never The Hunted {Valentine x Evangeline}

[sanctified-sanctuary]

⋆♱⋅⟡⋅♱⋆ @hopeharmed ⋆♱⋅⟡⋅♱⋆ 〝Do I have something on my face or why do you keep looking at me like that?〞||〝Yeah, but you should see the other guy.〞{Salvatore 🙴 Valentine 🙴 Evangeline}

The match was brutal, much more a challenge than passing nights and it was electrifying. The crowd was still jumping with energy after the spectacle, hell Valentine could hardly push their way through the crowd leaving the makeshift ring - a dirt floor cage meant for underground fights.

〝God they need to get more talent like that in here,〞 a deep throaty chuckle following as Valentine wiped sweat and another's blood from their brow and claimed a table on the outskirts of the warehouse to kick their feet up. The stocky fighter being trailed by their most loyal companion like a ghost given form, in all white and a head above half the gathered audience ever at their side.

〝Maybe they would have more talent if you weren't so rough on them, Valya. They're not like us, humans are deceptively fragile.〞 Her own laughter being drowned out by the aforementioned throng of mortal men. It was a full house, the air thick with sweat blood and smoke- all of which Valya was contributing to tonight.

〝Though I can't help but agree, even my instincts were kicking in from outside the cage- a good hunt is in order after this.〞 Her ember orange eyes were practically alight with desire upon the suggestion, there was nothing quite like the both of them on the prowl at night- a deadly duo.

[sanctified-sanctuary]

Evangeline gives a small excited clap, clasping her fingers together and bringing her hands just under her chin. 〝Assuming all goes to plan, you won't see me at all~〞

The two are more than enough to bring about a crowd when they desire and to disperse it even faster. Boredom is never a consideration when they're in the company of others, there is always a game to play or information to trade on the table.

A slightly toothy- or rather fanged- smile is Valya's response, their eyes wrinkling with the action. 〝Well now, perhaps our esteemed doctor has more in his history than meets the eye? Should you require our presence more immediately just say the word, we have a talent for being conveniently close by.〞

Their clawed hand disappears into one of the inner folds of the still unworn fur on the table, reappearing with a pair of blood red stained glasses. The lenses are a semi-opaque ruby red shaped in a cat-eye frame, they disguise Valentine's unique ocular condition well enough as Salvatore quickly learns.

〝You've no need to worry however- if you don't call out for us I have a hunch our paths will cross eventually.〞 With their gaze disguised it is easy to miss the acute sense of finality that their words carry, Sal has not seen the last of this duo regardless of his own thoughts on the matter.

At this time Eve finally spares a glance about the warehouse again, noting that while there are still fights occurring the spectators are thinning slowly but surely. A quick glance to a dainty watch around her wrist explains why as the night creeps ever onward toward another dawn, 〝I don't mean to cut our time short, though I know we will have plenty of it to make up for it, but I believe preparations for the day are soon to be made. I do hope we haven't kept you so distracted that your work here tonight suffers in quality- if not quantity.〞

    he feels it , and he is not wholly against it , either . his interest is more of a . . . curiosity ; a willingness to allow it , should it suit them . ( though there is a hesitancy about it . as if he is aware of the complications that came with immortality and it's . . . impact upon relationships , fleeting or otherwise . )

    ❝ with the work i do , i very much doubt i will be startled . though i am eager to see just how fast you are , ❞ he smiles , a twinkle of excitment in his eye , too .

    a sharp nod . salvatore is not ignorant to the longing that valya seems to display , though he is unsure as to what the source is . ( perhaps it is a thirst for more than just blood ; as they had suggested before . an ally in thought . )

    ❝ i am sure i will find excuse soon enough to request your company , in that case . ❞ he catches on immediately — and does not find himself surprised , either . it makes sense . why would one follow the law when there is a far simpler way to exist ? salvatore merely dabbled , but his expertise in the field burnt him out far too easily to adhere to whatever mortal society dictated of him .

    it eased the boredom . ❝ there are many avenues i am sure i will be able to assist you both in , ❞ salvatore hums . ❝ should you have need of me . . . you need only request it . ❞

[sanctified-sanctuary]

Evangeline accepts the card and pockets it inside her furs, smoothing the ruffled fibers to the best of her ability. She allows her hand to brush against Salvatore's in taking his information, not flirting but perhaps simply inviting more in the future.

〝I do hope you're not too easily startled, and that you're able to keep up~〞 Her excitement at the prospect is evident, to hunt with someone new and all together a stranger is a rare treat.

Valentine regards them both with a reverent longing, for Eve it is the pride they feel knowing she is of their creation and for Sal it is the prospect of the yet unknown that is sure to be their undoing.

〝Suppose it's only fair we exchange information as well, though with our less than permanent accommodations you'll have to forgive us for not having cards prepared. If you leave word with the gambling house matron on the South End, you'll know it when you see it, it will reach my ears by dawn rise.〞

The gambling house they speak of is a well known underground establishment, it's ties to organized crime plentiful and it's patrons just the same. The fact that the matron of the business has frequent enough contact with Valya is tell-tale of their profession, and perhaps their importance within it.

their words startle him . something settles in his chest ; something heavy , but understood . he would have to mull over those ruminations later , though — even if he doubts that either of them would so easily be able to distinguish the two . instead salvatore smiles , defeated , though it isn't with any outright signs of protest .

it is probably the kindest thing he'd heard in his long , exhausting existence , but it wasn't one that'd be easily accepted . ( but if he gave the two of them the chance to prove that , perhaps . . . )

❝ you both flatter me . ❞ salvatore finally relents , gaze averting and smile still tugging at his lips .

their next words make salvatore ponder further as to valya's intentions , but he nods all the same in agreement . he would hate to turn down such an invitation and find himself regretting it later , especially with how intrigued he was about their situation . ❝ then in that case , i would be most pleased to venture forth into such a partnership , should it suit our desires . ❞

( he's pleased he doesn't have to introduce them , at least . she was a terrible conversationalist at the best of times , and salvatore isn't too sure how well they'd mesh , even with how polite both evangeline and valentine were . )

at her invitation however salvatore nods . it isn't often at all he'd really . . . hunted , unless one counted stalking through his wards during the quieter hours of the hospitals he residented at . salvatore finds it funny she'd say such a thing though , about time , a private amusement . ❝ i would enjoy that very much , ❞ he purrs , reaching into his inner coat pocket . ❝ in that case , i will leave you with my card ; so you'll know where to find me . ❞

cold fingertips reach out and offer it in her direction , eyes drifting between the two , though he cannot deny that . . . pull that he also felt toward valya .

[sanctified-sanctuary]

Valentine lets out their own pleased hum, giving Salvatore a good and proper once over, not bothering to hide it as their eyes comb his person head to toe and back once more. 〝Though you may share a fate and, as you say, a face- I don't think there is a single reasonable soul out there that would be able to confuse your presence for another's. You've an air about you, an energy in how you carry yourself, I've seen very few with it and none with quite the ease you hold yourself.〞

A small smile spreads across their face, their eyes wrinkling slightly as they speak an almost whisper soft tone. 〝No, there would be- could be no mistaking you for another regardless of how similar you may appear at a glance. Wouldn't you agree Eve?〞 The trance Valya has caught themself in breaking as they remember their uncharacteristically quiet shadow.

While the two creatures have been speaking business, Evangeline slipped away to a far corner of the dilapidated warehouse and returned unseen with two large furs in hand. A large sleek white one, surely her own based on her present dress, and a slightly shorter taupe coat with long vertical stripes of dark brown and greys and a textured pattern to the fibers. 〝Surely not, anyone worth their salt would be able to spot the good doctor from leagues away without a moment's hesitation.〞

Valya nods in both a motion of agreeance and direction, silently asking her to place their fur on the table since they have no desire to don it yet. 〝Population control? As much as the offer sounds appealing I promise you I am more than capable of such a thing, I can't say if I would find much pleasure in a deal with someone of her calling if what you say is true. I would certainly be remiss to pass over the opportunity to speak with you at greater lengths however, it could turn out to be a great partnership if you wish it.��

And how they wish he would, since Sal first made himself known there's been a tug from Valentine's very core pulling them to him, their urge to know- to understand- being stoked to incredible heights. The way he speaks, the timbre of his voice, his posture and musculature, and his eyes above all else- combined it is drawing upon the core of Valya's being in ways they have only experienced in dreams and it is their driving intent to know everything there is to uncover about Salvatore.

〝You spoke of limiting yourself of our indulgences, perhaps we could persuade you to join us one night- your lands or ours. I see no need to limit our dealings to strict formalities. We have all the time in the world after all.〞 Eve chiming in again, an open invitation to join them on the hunt, somewhat unusual though not unheard of. While some choose to see hunting as a solitary activity, for others of a more social disposition it can be quite the bonding experience provided none in attendance mind sharing.

❝ well if that is the case , i suppose my clients can tend to their wounds without my assistance . ❞ a hand pushes through his hair , an idle action — far more relaxed and unguarded than he might've seemed before . ❝ i understand the sentiment . it is not often i allow myself to indulge , but , ah . medical work has it's advantages . no one ever really notices a few litres missing when you're in a position of care . ❞

it is somewhat of a dark statement , and whether he means he bites those who are too far gone to react to treatment or whether he took blood from donation banks wasn't clear . though , perhaps this is enough to express salvatore's cunning ; and the greys of his moral .

his eyes flit to the side at valya's next question , a pinch to the eye that suggests an unpleasant feeling . ❝ yes . . . i suppose i was quite fortunate . i merely wished to let you know in advance — lest there be any confusion . he and i are reflections of one another ; we share the same face and fate , so to speak . ❞ then , salvatore smiles , the pinch vanishing . whether or not he felt pleased about his predicament is not clear either , though perhaps with time this information would come to light . ❝ though i still find it quite amusing when he is addressed as though he were myself . ❞

a nod of understanding follows next , and salvatore hums , musing . ❝ an ally in thought . . . ah , well . you will not find that in her . though if you're ever in need of population . . . control , i can attempt to put a good word in for you . ❞ though he recognises the olive branch , and metaphorically does he decide to grasp it . ❝ myself , however ? i could certainly try to offer my thoughts should it please you . i'll admit with the little company i keep , it is difficult not to be tempted by your request . ❞

[sanctified-sanctuary]

A breathy laugh leaves Valentine, their eyes closing and head tilting down at the hidden compliment. 〝I think I've had my fill of this crowd for the night, I would hate to injure all of the entertaining competition in one go. Though all the same- I can only hold back for so long, wouldn't do any of us any good to cause that kind of scene.〞

They take a deep, unnecessary breath as they learn about the territory Evangeline and Valya have chosen to take reprieve in while their own region is under temporary supervision of another they've sired. 〝You've a brother? In this walk of life family born of the sun don't tend to last- ah unless he's more the blood of the covenant type. Family is what keeps you sane though I suppose,〞 receiving a knowing look from Eve as they speak- not betraying the nature of their bond simply their close proximity throughout the ages.

Putting that line of questioning aside, if Salvatore's brother is of genetic relation as well as blood affliction is something they can delve into at a later time, Valya considers his warning with no small amount of caution.

〝I do appreciate your candor about the inhabitants of the dark here. While what I get up to in these derelict spaces may lead you to conclude that of my daily persona, I guarantee it is anything but. Simply put my intention here is to hopefully find an ally, not in arms but in thought, my craft is expanding back East and with it the expectations of my clientele.〞 Valentine is offering up much as an olive branch in the hopes that this intoxicating stranger will stick around after tonight- else they need to hunt down information on Sal by their own means.

. . . interesting . he's not sure he's ever been described as interesting before , but salvatore had been a walking identity crisis ever since he'd been turned ; and had avoided most if not all unnecessary . . . attachments . his smile wavers for a moment , doubt blossoming in his chest — because what does he do but sulk and better his medical understanding ? his twin was clearly far more interesting but — — but now wasn't the time to have another internal crisis . ( he just wonders what exactly it is he can offer , but he's sure he'll . . . figure it out . )

❝ i think i can certainly slot you into my schedule , ❞ salvatore agrees . showing them around wouldn't be so terrible , and there came certain perks when treating patients most doctors wouldn't . ( he supposes that must be what's useful ; and relief floods over the doubt instead . ) ❝ given you are both busy for the rest of the evening , and undoubtably myself too , if you are to continue dominating over the ring . ❞ though that last part is said playfully , with a mischievious smile tugging upon usually stern features .

❝ i will tell you now though , ❞ upon hearing valya's comment about territory ; a polite warning ( though not for his own benefit , for theirs , really , ) ❝ this territory is , ah , shared . for the most part , neither my brother or i will mind what happens here , but do take care not to stray too far — there is a woman whose wrath i believe would not be . . . wise to cross . that is really all i ask of you , conditions wise . i think it beneficial for all parties involved if her attentions are kept . . . elsewhere . ❞

he looks perturbed for a moment , before shrugging . ❝ though i suppose that is up to you . ❞

[sanctified-sanctuary]

Eve gladly takes the attention away from the spark she sees between the two, committing as much of it to memory as she can before having to respond once more.

〝A deal is surely something we can strike up! You seem like quite the interesting type, it would be a shame to put any of your precious time to waste- still though. I'm sure neither of us would pass up the opportunity to pick your thoughts.〞 She's slipped into business mode, jovial none the less.

〝Perhaps we can form our first exchange tonight? The both of us are only recently come into town, truth be told this wasn't our first choice but seems to have been the correct one regardless.〞 A small laugh following her meaning, 〝what I aim to say is, would you be ever so kind as to show us around? I do believe it'll be rather early by the time we finish here but if you've the time in the following nights I, at the very least, wouldn't scoff at your company.〞

Valya has been letting Evangeline lead the conversation, and he's impressed as always with her ease at building connections among would be strangers. 〝You can count me in on that as well, of course that also comes with the stipulation that you have conditions to be met and we should strive to meet them. We are nothing if not most gracious guests in another's territory.〞

They always have been the one of the duo to care more about what another could want before what they can gain, for in the long run it pays to corner the market early and build a wealth of knowledge to leverage.

it takes him aback to have been kissed so brazenly like that ; and yet he still accepts it , an eyebrow raised and bemused half smile crossing his features . it did not only feel right for just valya , however , and salvatore cannot help but notice the feeling it invokes . ( like it was familiar , perhaps . )

❝ i see . i am pleased i did not butcher your name all the same , i would be mortified at such a faux pas . ❞ the laughter that leaves him is friendly , rather than self depreciative . nodding as valya comments on his . . . past time .

❝ bloodied pursuits have become somewhat of a . . . natural calling , though it is only until fairly recently that i thought to engage in something such as this . ❞ though he finds himself trailing off , watching in silent fascination . supernatural allure indeed . it had been too long since he'd last seen someone like himself ; just too uncannily pretty , just too uncannily perfect .

a throat is cleared ; and his attention is drawn away from them again , pleased that evangeline had continued his prior trail of conversation . mischief dances within his irises ; the smile rife with diablerie . ❝ i shall keep that in mind , miss evangeline . ❞ he hums back , storing away his own tidbits of information . ❝ though i would not request such a thing without offering something of my own in return . ❞

everyone wants something , after all , and salvatore is all too happy to oblige . ❝ i'd be pleased to find mutual terms with you , you need only ask and i will deliver . ❞

[sanctified-sanctuary]

Just before Salvatore can withdraw his hand something overcomes Valentine and they lean forward, boots settling back on the ground, pulling their interlocked limbs closer to them to press a chaste, swift kiss to his knuckles before releasing him. If you were to ask what was running their mind in their moment they truly wouldn't have an answer, it just felt right.

〝Close, but not quite. Slavic actually, я говорю по-русски. Russian, though it isn't my mother tongue. I do applaud the effort, your accent isn't half bad.〞 Without skipping a beat, as though that didn't occur, Valya ashes the now burnt out cigarette into the beaten wood of the table as many have before. 〝I'm almost surprised to hear a doctor who willingly engages in bloodied exploits- though perhaps I shouldn't be given your persuasions.〞 Free hands now combing back the ebony and shock white hair that didn't stay pulled away from their face during the fight, allowing a better look at Valya's features.

There's an almost supernatural allure, though just under the surface of the mortal consciousness draw is the subconscious urge to stay far, far away. Their presence itself not a threat but to the most base instinct of a prey creature it ignites the warnings of danger, of a wolf amongst the sheep biding it's time. Bone structures that teeter on the edge of too pronounced to be human, expressions just uncanny enough to cause discomfort if observed for long enough, and skin that lacks the blush of life revealed upon contact.

In adjusting their hair Valentine also reveals black ink peaking out from the long sleeved blouse they wear loose and open starting at the back of the hand and disappearing up either forearm, choosing not to roll the cuffs when fighting for one reason or another.

Eve catches the kiss, swift though it was, and makes note of it for later when she will inevitably hold it against them- though that's not a conversation for the now.

〝My secret? You know not what you're asking Salvatore, I don't just give freely things others desire. You seem an intelligent man, so I won't hold it against you this once,〞 teasing truly, though a secret it shall remain for even if Eve were to reveal it he could hardly hope to replicate her methods. 〝Perhaps we could find mutual terms to exchange such things upon?〞

her laughter is certainly infectious ; and salvatore finds himself smiling alongside her as she giggles away . he takes note of her teeth , too — fascinated by the fact . they must've enjoyed the hunt , as it were , and he supposes he cannot blame them for that either . ( for it was exhilarating , no matter his personal feelings on the matter . )

❝ evangeline . . . what a pleasure it is to finally put a name to the face . ❞ he hopes too , that in time they might become friends . it was terribly boring , dealing with mortals all the time , what with their fragile bodies and fearful natures toward the unknown . ❝ i find it postively astounding you are able to keep such a pure white . . . white , in a place such as this . perhaps we ought to trade secrets , for i loathe replacing these coats so often . ❞

saccharine is drawn toward her companion next , as the two bicker amongst themselves . he finds himself captivated by them ; entranced by their familiarity , their bright energy towards each other . even as calm valya seemed ; they still played along — not too unlike himself .

he takes their hand , ice gracing ice ; and he nods his head in understanding . ❝ i see . l'italiano è la mia lingua madre , so valya it is . if i am correct , it is of latin origin , is it not ? ❞ salvatore pronounces it closely enough to valentine ; though his own native accent ( muted , for he had spoken english for many , many decades by now ; ) takes it's turn to shine through when he speaks their name .

at their question and elaboration , salvatore draws his hand back , head turning toward the crowd . ❝ i am here often enough . it depends , really , on how bored i am . treating people for tummy troubles and headaches day in and day out doesn't particularly sound . . . interesting , does it ? ❞ it pays well , too — but salvatore isn't in it for the money .

❝ something with a little more blood involved is much more satisfying , i find . ❞

[sanctified-sanctuary]

Salvatore has successfully eased any would be tension with his slight bow, earning a genuine laugh from the taller of the mysterious pair. With her eyes closed and mouth open, lips pulled back by her smile, her own fangs are on display- only further affirming what Sal has come to know of them. Similarly to Valya her teeth seem to consist primarily of fangs or otherwise unnaturally pointed morphology save for her front most incisors.

Her laugh is infectious, she's more than amused enough to give their new friend a chance- though that's all it is for now, a chance.

〝How could you ever forgive us for not introducing ourselves sooner? I'm Evangeline, Eve to friends of which I feel we shall soon become.〞 Punctuating her introduction with a shallow mock curtsy, her left hand gathering a bunch of her ghastly white skirt while the other sweeps across her person and outward in a welcoming manner. The position doesn't last long as she's consumed by giggles at the ridiculous way in which she's behaving, she's not made for the upper crust never has been, though it's delightful to play pretend.

In contrasting, though still complementary, fashion Valya shuts their eyes with a bemused huff at their counterpart's actions. This earns a swift smack to the calf from Eve's still outstretched arm as she stands back to full height, choosing to place her weight against the worn table that still supports Valentine's boots.

〝Don't be rude, you asked him his name first- I'm simply doing him the curtesy of replying in kind.〞 Her razor sharp focus finally falling away from their white coat companion and to her most trusted ally.

〝I'm not being rude, I'm simply waiting my turn since you volunteered yourself.〞 A smirk playing across Valya's lips as Salvatore is held a captive audience to the vampiric couple's banter. Though they do reach a clawed hand out for Sal to take, being sure to switch the quickly cooling cigarette to the other away from him- polite in their own way.

〝Valentine, or Valya depending on what languages you speak. I take it you're something of a regular here?〞 They have an indiscernible accent when they're talking but upon saying their short-name a near native Russian accent presents itself. 〝I would hate to impose on your already quite busy schedule here, though it pays to have friends in low places when acquainting oneself with a new region I suppose.〞

salvatore on the other hand , was acquainted with two — though given that one of them was wrath on legs and the other a mirror of himself ; his twin . . . it was intriguing to run into others who shared the same . . . damnation . it gave him a new sense of vigour , like at least there were others to share eternity with .

his eyes are fixed upon valya now , observing the razor sharp fangs they display so languidly ; practically fascinated .

❝ yes . i do believe my curiosity has given me the answer i was looking for . ❞ he smiles , politely — seemingly pleased with the outcome . salvatore wonders if now their secret is made plain to him , whether or not they'd stick around . it'd be a shame , otherwise . salvatore was getting terribly bored , after all .

the likelihood seemed slim , at the very least .

❝ i likely have seen the other guy , you know . you leave quite the mark on them . ❞ though it's said with laughter behind his voice ; bemused . ❝ ah , that's right . i haven't introduced myself , yet . ❞

he smiles a little more honestly this time , a hand pressed to his chest as he mocks a small bow — a betrayal of just how old he is , perhaps . ❝ salvatore . i don't think i ever caught either of your names , either . would you be so kind ? i should like to know who i'm treating , should it ever come to that . ❞

[sanctified-sanctuary]

Valya is silently watching the good doctor, hanging on every word. It's been some time since another of their immortal affliction has approached either of the duo and to say they're intrigued is an understatement. Another long, painfully slow drag from their cigarette happens before they simply slack their jaw to let the smoke billow out, in the process revealing exactly what it is Salvatore desires to know.

Fangs- long, sharp, and plentiful fill Valentine's mouth, the only flat teeth being the two front most incisors on top and bottom. Everything about them is unnaturally sharp, keen, deadly, though they are clearly able to show restraint since their match up in the cage is still walking about. 〝Well aren't you just a saint? But I think we all know the answer to that pesky little question you're stepping around.〞

Vampires, all three of them.

At this point Evangeline has let Valya lead the conversation since their guest seemed to be all eyes on them, though she's still standing tall at eye level with their new conversation partner. Her eyes glancing over Valya's face and hands taking note of the aforementioned observations- knowing full well even if the wounds are theirs the blood is not.

Silvery white eyes open a hair more, seemingly unaware of the injuries they've sustained themself, as they lift a hand to their face and touch their brow, their lips, bruising and cuts evident. 〝Suppose it has been a rather challenging night, I haven't been with this crowd very long it's refreshing. Though it's as they say, you really should've seen the other guy.〞  A deep, guttural chuckle leaving their lips at the old adage.

〝Well now doctor, suppose I do seek you out- who would I be asking for?〞

to have those sets of eyes upon him as though he were simply a slab of meat would've made him nervous , once . though , despite their greeting — he appears amicable , smiling politely at the two with no traces of fear . the only thing dangerous to a vampire ; in his eyes ; was another vampire — but he doubts either would make a move against him in a place like this .

curiosity had gotten the better of him ; ever greedy for knowledge , however . he couldn't leave them as though he hadn't noticed either of them — because it was difficult not to . he shifts in place , straightening his back ; body language remaining open and personable . ❝ i suppose you have a point , though from my observations , ❞ his gaze pulls away from theirs ; the intensity of valentine and evangeline's stare finally causing him to do so , — anyone would need a doctor at this point . are you certain the blood on your brow isn't yours ? ❞

salvatore certainly does feel read , however . like every aspect of his person had been taken and observed — and his suspicions seemed to be correct . ( for not everyone had a presence like that . ) so when he's adressed next by eve — his returning smile is bright , knowing .

❝ poor taste ? ❞ salvatore repeats , his tone matching hers . ❝ i suppose my actions could be considered as such , though . . . ah . it is often not the criminal's fault for being in a position such as this . it would be cruel not to provide my expertise , in any case . there are few people willing , and i certainly have more than enough time on my hands to . . . lurk , as you put it . ❞

❝ though if your companion is . . . well , perhaps it best i wait for you to approach me next time , hm ? ❞

[sanctified-sanctuary]

With his presence known two sets of predatory eyes focus on the newcomer at once. Evangeline's bright, sharp fiery eyes taking all of him in at once, sizing up the doctor to tell if he's friend or foe. Valentine's eyes however are heavily lidded, though their gaze is no less lethal as they give Salvatore a once over. 〝Pray tell, why would I need medical attention if I've the overwhelming prowess in the cage?〞 Their voice holding a less than hidden bestial quality as they take a drag from their cigarette.

Valya, who is still sitting with their feet crossed and resting on the unsteady table, tilts their head in the direction of the doctor deigning to give him more attention. Would be blind eyes have Salvatore in their sights, to many it is their most eerie quality the ability to see with an aptitude so acute as to make one feel as though all aspects of their person have been perceived and known.

Eve is dressing him down with her gaze, taking stock of any potential weaponry and body language ticks. Ever the one to be wary, though she never lets it show.

〝I've seen you lurking around the back areas, truly the suspicions would be upon you Doctor, would they not? A bit poor taste to condone the actions of criminals by providing them aide.〞 Her tone feather light, intrigued and almost cheery despite her intense stare.

and what a show it had been !! salvatore hadn't been one for watching the cage fights at all ; rarely ever seen amongst the crowds but rather , backstage — much to his brother's dismay , tending to the wounds of those foolish enough to fight . ( and more often than not , they were mortal , too high on adrenaline to notice just how cold the doctor's hands really were . )

though he couldn't have helped but notice that one person in particular had been dominating over all others ; never once in need of his . . . services .

it would be foolish of salvatore to have approached the duo if he too , were human — though such bravery could only be attributed to his own immortality . ❝ say , ❞ he seems to have come from nowhere ; though the pristine white coat he wears is telling of what his role is here . ❝ you hold up remarkably well . in all the time i have attended to the fighters here . . . you have not approached me once . ❞

the air about him is casual , and his gaze is not fixed upon the two , but rather elsewhere — though it's almost certain he's addressing them . ❝ if i were anyone else , i'd have found it suspicious . ❞