#a castle servant Link and vampire Link

[kate-m-art]

Was trying to decide whether to post these here or not but ajsjdk why not ig

Link OCs in Breath of the Wild armor sets just For The Vibes

[onestepbackwards]

Love That Bites Pt. 9

Hiiii! Welcome to part 9 of my Dracula x Reader fic! I hope you enjoy this chapter, though I apologize if it feels kinda wonky. I finally got a new pc built during writing, and a bunch of other stuff has happened. It was hard to piece it all together with so much happening in my life. I hope you all enjoy it though! Just in time for Nocturne to release :D Summary: After arriving in Dracula's castle, you can't help but feel you are in a dream, though you certainly wish it was to avoid the awkward air. Meanwhile, Dracula contemplates his next moves. After all, he's sure he's bound to be the center of the world's gossip mill when they find out he's caring for a Belmont.

CW: Anxiety, references to bad home life, injuries mentioned, blood drinking

Word Count: 4216 words! Like my work? Come check me out here: Link Likes and reblogs appreciated!

Tag List: @Onewiththebeanbag @starrlo0ver @sleepyendymion @dame-sunflowers @sapphicsfordracula @ursamajor17 @maorizon @marshmelloe Wanna be on the taglist, let me know in the comments!

First: Here Last: Here Next: Here! --

Sorting his affairs turned out to be a much more annoying endeavor than Dracula originally intended.

Despite this, he wasn’t all too surprised.

For the past few centuries, despite being the King of the Night, he has had very little presence in paranormal societies.

Every time he had been revived since this cursed cycle began, he had barely been alive long before a Belmont or some other hero would come and battle him to the death.

Even if for all intents and purposes he was the King of Vampires, he has had little or no time to rule.

He absentmindedly swirled his glass, before taking another sip.

There were two probable scenarios because of this.

Vampire covens and supernatural communities were in chaos.

Or-

They were in various communities across the globe, staking territory. He doubted any of them would be happy he was back to rule.

No one liked their own power to be threatened, after all.

Even when he was actively King, vampire covens and paranormal communities weren’t always happy to serve him. Many just did for his power, or the safety he offered.

Some felt the call of power from him and Castlevania itself. Others are uniquely tied to him and his castle. Those ones he hardly had to worry about.

No, he had a feeling his return wouldn’t be as happily accepted outside his usual circles. Most would probably only lend him an ear since he was Death’s master, and Chaos’ champion.

Did not mean they would be cooperative or happy.

He let out an agitated sigh. No doubt being killed over and over made him appear weak. Dracula suspected many would be aiming for his throat and his throne.

Nevermind the fact he was almost always slain just after being revived, before his powers ever had a chance to settle.

And he was sure many underestimated the power of the Belmonts. He may have always just woken up around each battle, but each Belmont still had power beyond belief.

“What a nuisance.” He muttered, downing more blood.

While normally he would handle this himself, he couldn’t afford to sit idly and wait for such pathetic attempts on his life and power from want-to-be rulers.

Dracula had a guest this time. He had you.

Back when his precious Lisa had still been alive, he had been alive for several centuries at that point. Almost every underling knew she was off limits, lest they desire something more painful than death itself.

Even those he knew wanted his head knew better than to go for his wife.

Lisa had been left alone by his servants and other creatures of the night. Ironic how it was the humans that took her from him.

The gall and irony humans had to call him and his own monsters after that. Bah.

The glass in his hand cracked, and he looked at it in annoyance.

Banishing it, another drink was brought to him as he continued to think.

Things were different this time. At least back then, no one dared to lay a finger on his wife. But now?

He had no doubts a target would be on both his head, and the Little Belmont’s.

Dracula was sure word was already spreading across the castle, and no doubt would soon do so to other communities nearby.

‘The Dracula? Taking in another human?’

He can already imagine the gossip.

The scowl on his face darkened.

It would only be a matter of time before word reached across the globe.

He knew you could take care of yourself, sure. You had told him several stories of hunts you had when he had been imprisoned, usually involving the death of a beast hunting innocents.

However, there was no way in hell you would survive in your current state. Whatever had happened, had intended to either permanently harm, or to kill you.

Dracula’s free hand gripped his throne tight, and he felt the arm of it splinter slightly.

How you received those injuries was a whole different issue that he would have to investigate later on. An issue he planned on thoroughly going over.

So for now, you were under his official protection while you healed.

Unless of course, you decided to go against your word. Though, Dracula heavily doubted you would do so.

You really were different then those who came before you.

This would not be easy, but when had it ever been? He was just thankful you knew how to defend yourself, and had the means to do so.

Once word got out, and you were healed, he also had suspicions you would be hunted. Either as a Belmont, Dracula’s human, or a ‘traitor’.

He may not have been privy to any sort of personal information regarding hunters and their circles, but he knew back a few centuries ago, helping out a ‘monster’ was a death sentence. It did not matter if they didn’t wish to harm humans, simply helping a beast was an act against god and humanity itself.

Hunters and the church considered such a person no better than the very beasts they hunted at that point.

Dracula doubted that sentiment was completely gone, even now in more modern times.

Reaching up, Dracula pinched the bridge of his nose in thought.

He had someone making potions for you at least. Hopefully you wouldn’t be badly injured for too long.

After that, he wondered if you would be opposed to staying here at his castle? You didn’t seem disgusted by it, nor did the castle seem to try and push you away like it did other intruders.

Those who were not welcome usually felt such pushes on their mind and body. Only the strong willed could push onwards past it.

Even his castle seemed to see you as a guest.

The castle bent to his will, sure, but it was still a being of Chaos. This small revelation also intrigued him, how such a being seemed not to mind your presence.

Perhaps it was that it also didn’t consider you a threat? It was obvious you currently had no intentions to fight him.

Dracula’s eyes narrowed, a presence pulling him out of his thoughts.

The room grew darker, and a familiar figure rose from the shadows. It flew around his throne, before giving a bow in front of him.

“Good to see you back, Master.”

Death.

Dracula looked over the divine being that had worked under him for centuries. His second in command, his devout lieutenant.

Dracula gave the being a brief nod of acknowledgment, and Death rose.

Even after all the deaths Dracula had endured, Death itself still remained loyal after all these years. He supposed he should count it as a blessing now.

“Report?” Dracula then idly asked, drinking from his glass.

“Things are running smoothly. Everyone is settling in quickly, as usual my lord.”

Dracula hummed.

“Good. Good.” He mumbled, mind still partially elsewhere.

A moment passed, and Death gripped his scythe.

“Master, if I may be so bold…”

Dracula held back a sigh, already having an inkling to what he was going to say.

“Do you think it is wise to have a hunter, let alone a Belmont residing in the castle?”

There it was. He knew his subordinates would be asking sooner or later. He wasn’t particularly surprised Death was the first to make an inquiry.

“They pose no threat. This Belmont is… different from the others. I would like to speak with them properly about our standing with one another as soon as they are recovered.”

He then looked Death in the face.

“They are not to be harmed while under my care. Do I make myself clear?”

Death studied him for a moment, probably wondering if he had a few screws loose, before nodding his head.

“As you wish, milord.”

Death was silent, and a beat passed. Dracula hoped his warning managed to sink into the other entity’s skull.

He was no stranger to the fact Death was his most avid supporter. Although Death had always followed his orders, the entity didn’t shy away from making its own decisions if he felt it was best for his master.

Staying within Dracula’s orders, but bending the rules just enough to do his own thing if he could get away with it.

Typically Dracula didn’t mind. Death was his most trusted lieutenant for a reason.

However, he couldn’t help but feel Death may try and get around this one rule if it felt it was best.

As much as he hated it, he would have to keep an eye on all his close subordinates.

Dracula tried not to focus on the growing migraine building in his head.

“Now, what of the vampire covens across the earth?”

Death gave him a subtle crooked grin, and Dracula had a sinking feeling he would need another drink before returning to see you.

—

Dracula’s castle was far more pleasant than you would like to admit.

Your brain was in and out of a fog, but even then you could appreciate just how nice the guest room and washroom alone were.

You almost felt like royalty with how classy and intricate the rooms were, and how they had convenient modern touches.

Never had you stayed somewhere so elaborate and fancy. All the hotels you have been in couldn’t even come close to compare.

Even now as you laid in the giant bed with its soft, velvet sheets, you couldn’t help but be amazed.

Kinda ironic, the home of your ‘enemy’ was way better than any place you had ever stayed at.

Besides maybe your own home before your step family took over, you supposed, though that was a long time ago.

Slowly rolling onto your back, you winced as your wounds flared and your stomach churned. You continued to admire your setting.

The bed had a beautiful silk canopy around it, and you still couldn’t help but be enamored by it.

Or by it all, really. Even if it was a bit overwhelming.

…Just how long has it been?

You had been in and out of sleep, occasionally slipping into a doze before startling awake. The time was lost to you.

In retrospect, you couldn’t help it. Your instincts were going haywire from… well, everything.

The bed and sheets were nice at least. Almost too nice.

You were used to your old sheets, or stiff bed sheets you’d find in cheap hotels.

Not soft satin sheets and pillows that were as fluffy as a cloud.

There was also the glaring fact you were in monster territory. Despite how nice the decor was, it was something on the back of your mind also keeping you up.

Yes, Dracula said you were a guest, but it was hard to lower your guard when you knew just outside the door were monsters roaming up and down the halls. That this whole castle was filled to the brim with the paranormal and monster kind.

You were also a hunter, and a notorious one from a notorious family at that.

It wasn’t hard to imagine some monsters may go ahead and take a shot at you, regardless of Dracula’s orders.

To some, it may be worth it to suffer Dracula’s wrath or ire if it meant eradicating you from existence. It wasn’t exactly a secret that a lot of the paranormal hated you.

You carefully laid on your side, and looked out the window.

A small comfort. Originally, the window had been covered by thick curtains. However, you had pulled them aside to attempt to relieve your anxiety.

The clouds were dark. You couldn’t tell if it was night or day at this point. Perhaps that was the point.

But you were so tired. Exhausted.

You really couldn’t even sleep if you wanted to, knowing Dracula, or at least a servant, would be bringing you a meal sometime soon.

The hunter in your soul didn’t wish to be taken off guard, even if it was to be fed.

A small part of you wondered if you should even eat. Your instincts whispered in your mind about poisons, warning you of incoming death.

But that was ridiculous. Imagine it, you, a hunter, dying from poison.

No, if Dracula wanted you dead, he would have killed you by now. By his own hand no less, you were sure.

Still, that didn’t stop your instincts from making things difficult.

You curled in on yourself a bit tighter, wincing when some of the stitches tugged. Reluctantly, you adjusted to keep them from stretching.

You reached over, and grabbed the nearby pillow, and hugged it close to your body for some comfort.

It smelled nice.

That was another issue. You were so sleep deprived and struggling with blood loss, your brain liked to bring up such things, no matter how much you were trying to shut them out.

Gripping the pillow tighter, you felt your face form into a sour look.

“What am I going to do…” You mumbled, closing your eyes again.

At least if you didn’t sleep, lying here would be some rest. Better than none.

Though you hated to admit how much you jumped when you heard a brief, but loud knocking against the door. Talk about acting like a cat in a room full of rocking chairs…

You sat up in bed with a wince, and you noticed that no one seemed to enter. Another knock followed the previous one. Your heart pounded in your chest.

“Uh… Come in…?” you called out, uncertain. Were they waiting to see if you were awake, or what?

The doorknob slowly turned, and you felt like the breath was punched out of you when Dracula stepped through.

Right. He had mentioned he would return.

He looked different though. Better, if you had to put a word to it. He wasn’t particularly disheveled to begin with, but now he didn’t look as… Hungry? Irritated? It was hard to figure out the words.

The Lord of the Night had also changed. Similar style, dark cloak and all, though he had on a vest with a dark red dress shirt underneath, and some sort of fancy slacks.

You imagined you probably would have wanted to change too if you had been wearing the same clothes as a stone statue for however many years.

But seeing Dracula again? You hated to admit how he practically took your breath away.

His power and presence were just as intimidating as before, and he wasn’t even angry. How did your ancestors handle him before, when he felt this powerful without seemingly intending to harm you?

Dracula looked you over briefly as he walked into the room, shutting the door behind him. Even if there were no traces of malice on his face, a shiver still ran down your spine, instincts still screaming to run or fight.

You swallowed your nerves down as he walked closer.

He stopped at the side of your bed, and once again, you had to crane your neck just to see him at his full height.

That is, until with the wave of his hand, a chair nearby in the room came scooting forward. It came to a stop behind him, and he sat down without a glance.

Internally, you hoped your awe wasn’t blatantly on your face.

When he sat, he crossed his legs, before holding a tray with some sort of bowl on it. He held it forward, and you blinked at it slowly.

“I hope you are resting well, Little Belmont. I had some servants make you some soup. I fear eating solids may upset your stomach, which would aggravate your injuries if you were to grow sick.” He spoke, his voice low and deep. Even if he wasn’t loud, his voice still seemed to vibrate in your chest.

It took his words a few moments to register, and you looked between him, and the tray. He took in your expression for a moment, before speaking once more.

“If you fear it has been tampered with, I assure you my servants-”

“Oh, no… It’s fine. Sorry, I’m…” You spoke, cutting him off, ignoring how your pulse spiked when you realized you did so.

“S-Sorry… My head is a bit foggy, is all…” You then explained, before shakily reaching for the tray.

Dracula was quick, or perhaps, your brain really was slow. He held out a hand, and quite gently might you add, set the tray down on your lap.

“Of course. You must not exert yourself, and you must eat. I do not know how long it has been since you last ate, but you need something in your stomach.”

As if hearing the conversation, your stomach loudly growled, and you felt your face flush in embarrassment. When was the last time you ate? This morning? Night before last? You couldn’t exactly remember…

It was brief, but you swore you could have seen Dracula’s lips twitch upward seeing you grow flustered. It must have been your foggy mind and imagination. Or not, he could be internally laughing at you. Who knows?

Meanwhile, Dracula knew he had been right to bring you soup. He just hoped you could hold it down.

Though he didn’t want to admit how… endearing it was seeing you grow flustered like that. For a Belmont, you were quite the adorable human.

He would never admit it of course, but hell save him if Death ever found out he had such thoughts. Dracula would never hear the end of it.

Especially considering such thoughts were about a Belmont. Someone he should be wasting no time slaying.

But he wouldn’t.

He couldn’t.

There was something so different about you, even now, as he watched you pick up the spoon and attempt to eat.

You didn’t stare at him with burning hate in your eyes, but curiosity. There was a sharp mind behind those eyes that asked questions. Someone who didn’t just jump to conclusions.

Was it so wrong he wanted to see more of that, especially in the family of his enemies, who had blindly ran and fought? Killing innocents of his kind?

He was no saint, far from it. But he knew of many others the Belmont clan had killed.

But you… You were so different. He didn’t wish to say it outloud, but he wished to push forward that way of thinking. Perhaps he could even find a middle ground with you.

You weren’t just some ‘scary hunter’. The Little Belmont in front of him showed so much more, showing the better qualities of humanity.

His face almost soured at the thought, but even he could admit every one in a million, perhaps one good human was born. You seemed to be that one in a million exception so far.

Just like Lisa had been.

He decided not to think too much on what that could mean, though he hoped it promised good things in the near future.

It was quiet for a while, and Dracula couldn’t help but study you as you ate. First and foremost, it was to watch and make sure your body could handle it.

But he had his own selfish reasons for doing so.

He could move again. React to you. Speak to you. Touch you.

However, he found it hard to speak. There were many things he wanted to talk about with you, and half of them he intended on waiting until you were a little bit healthier.

Anything he thought of before now though, was suddenly caught on his tongue as he observed.

Perhaps it would be better this way. Dracula prided himself on being charismatic and influential, but that was amongst the supernatural. This was a Belmont, and he knew things were… shaky at best.

However, as he watched you try and consume more of the soup, he found himself managing to say something.

“Are you feeling alright? Adjusting well?”

Briefly, you tensed when he spoke, before you seemed to force yourself to relax. He made a mental note of that reaction, wondering if it was because of him, or if it was a natural response.

Dracula could understand it if it was from him, given the circumstances, but even he could tell there was something off about it. He didn’t like the feeling settling in his gut over the bigger picture.

“It hurts a lot, but I’ll live.” You spoke, your voice still rough, but sounding leagues better than before. For a moment, it looked as if you wanted to say more, but held your tongue.

Interesting.

You were still for a moment, struggling to look at him. No doubt you were still having trouble thinking clearly, and struggling with everything that had happened. Have you even slept?

He had his doubts you’ve even rested. You may not look as manic like before, but you looked completely exhausted.

For a moment, he briefly thought about using his abilities to make you sleep. It was something Lisa would request on occasion if she hadn’t felt well or couldn’t settle.

However, he stomped that idea down. The last thing you needed was him using his powers like that on you, unless explicitly agreed upon. Even though you were… receptive of him taking care of you at the moment, he didn’t want to shatter that small bit of trust.

Given that he had suspicions about your home life, he imagined just the small bit of trust you had given him at all was momentous. Dracula couldn’t afford to lose that. Not now.

Though Dracula hated the odd pain in his chest as he stared at you. He was worried. Something he didn’t think he would ever feel again.

“Thank you, by the way.”

His eyes were on your face in an instant as you spoke.

“I… You didn’t have to take care of me. I do appreciate it.” You spoke, your eyes still on the bowl in your lap.

Your voice was small, and quiet. Dracula could tell though, saying that must have taken strength.

You didn’t see his eyes soften ever so slightly.

“You are welcome. As my guest, I will do my best to make sure you are taken care of.”

Internally you wanted to scream. You hated how much you liked the sound of that. When was the last time anyone cared enough to take care of you? Your mother before she had died all those years ago?

It had been way too long, and it was Dracula who was seemingly wanting to take care of you.

Damn your foggy mind.

A few moments of silence passed.

“I… Um…” You began, unsure on how to word this.

“About when you were a statue…”

You had so many questions, but didn’t know where to begin. Was it even a good idea to ask in the state you were in?

“You could hear and see everything, right?” you asked tentatively.

Dracula was silent for a moment, red eyes staring into you. It seemed he was contemplating what to say, and you tried not to get nervous as the seconds awkwardly ticked onward.

“Indeed I was. I was aware the moment you stepped foot in my castle the first time, though I was not aware it was a Belmont, not at first.”

His voice was still like velvet. No wonder vampires were such good hunters if they could talk like him.

You really needed to force yourself to sleep. Maybe if you smacked your head hard enough on the table, you could knock yourself out before you did or thought anything weirder.

Clenching your fist, you attempted to figure out what to say next.

“Um…”

Internally you cursed yourself for making this awkward. Why did you have to bring this up?

“Then… What now?” You asked, trying to find some semblance of what comes next. Just because he was taking care of you didn’t make everything all happy and cheery.

You couldn’t wash away centuries of history and bloodshed out of nowhere.

Dracula shifted, then reached over to the bedside table, and grabbed a glass of water. You looked at it confused.

When had he brought that in?

Before you could ask, he was gently holding it out to you.

“We can discuss that after you have rested. We have much to go over, but worrying about that and discussing it while you are injured won’t help your healing.”

He looked away a moment, as if contemplating what to say, before his eyes met your own once again.

“You have gained my interest and respect, enough to hear you out and discuss everything. When you are in a state to do so, of course.”

A part of you opened your mouth to speak, as if to say you could do it now, but you froze. Your eyes landed on the glass he still held out.

After a moment, you closed your mouth, and took the glass.

In that moment, you couldn’t help but feel like some sort of agreement or contract was formed, as if your fate was sealed.

As you sipped the refreshing water though, and looked over at Dracula himself, who seemed pleased you accepted the drink…

…You wondered if this would really be that bad?

Perhaps your future wouldn’t be as bleak as you thought.

[danikamariewrites]

Turning

Vampire!Eris x reader

Summary: Eris Vanserra, King of vampires in Prythian, and his bride-to-be celebrate her decision to truly spend forever together. @erisweek2023

A/n: I give you king vampire Eris and his very devoted queen! Eris week has been so much fun, I’ve loved reading everyone’s fics/hc/posts/blurbs, edits, and art! This fandom is so freakin talented and I’m so happy to be on here with you guys❤️ I decided to add links to pictures from Pinterest that I pictured while writing this so don’t forget to click on those besties

Warnings: blood, drinking blood, murder, and I wanna say suggestive

Walking through the garden the skirts of my night black gown dragged over the gravel, my hand outstretched to graze over the soft leaves of the maze of rose bushes I'm following. Reaching the center of the garden I take in the vivid colors of the flowers in the sun.

Closing my eyes I lift my head to take in the comforting embrace of the sun one last time. Tonight is my Turning Ceremony. When Eris proposed last month he gave me the choice of joining him for true eternity as a Vampire, or staying as just Fae until I faded into the After World.

I didn’t think Eris would be able to handle my passing after only a thousand years together. And I couldn’t let my love be heartbroken forever.

Deciding to take a reprieve from the sun I head further into the garden where the roses reside. The white roses are my favorite. Along with the white marble and stone gazebo Eris had built for me when I first moved to the castle.

He took me in when my village kicked me out after accusing me of my fathers murder. I wanted to go somewhere that no one would follow. There had been rumors about the castle on the edge of the dark wood. People were terrified of the place, not even looking in its direction if they could help it. But not me. I had come up with my own stories about the dark castle as a girl. So that’s where I went.

Mine and Eris’s relationship took time. But it was well worth the wait. The King shows me nothing but love and kindness.

I stop and smell the roses. They look so lovely, reflecting the sun's bright rays. I suppose the next time I see them they will look more gray. I have no problem giving up the day time. I was always more of a night owl anyways. My parents constantly struggled to get me to go to sleep at a proper time.

Sitting, I close my eyes again and listen to the creatures of the day. I smile to myself at the buzz of the bees, the rabbits rushing through the brush, and the birds calling to each other. Letting my unbound hair rest behind my shoulders, letting the warm breeze wash over me. Days feel busy but peaceful. It’ll be nice to sit out here at night with Eris. In a quieter peace.

A male behind me clears his throat, one of the Fae day servants. I turn to look at the male over my shoulder with a small smile, “Francis, how are you?” He returns your smile, “Well my lady. And you? Your big evening is coming up.”

“Excited. I just want it to go well. For Eris’s sake.” Francis nods in agreement. “Speaking of the King, he requests your presence in his study.” I stand and let Francis lead me back through the garden and through the iron gate back to the castle grounds.

—

When we reach the doors to Eris’s study Francis stands to the side, letting me take it from here. Knocking on the door I hear Eris’s gruff voice tell me to come in. He must be concentrating on something.

I gently swing the door open and close it quickly. The grand chandelier and candles are the only light source in the room. I notice Eris has the heavy, dark velvet curtains pulled tight against the windows, not wanting to let a sliver of daylight in.

Eris’s study is one of my favorite rooms in the whole castle. It just feels so…him. He has items from things he is interested in scattered amongst the shelves, maps from ages ago, books that look like they would turn to dust if you held them.

The sofas were quite comfortable as well. When I first started getting to know Eris, and was comfortable being around him alone, we spent many nights here just talking. Enjoying a drink or two until one of us would call it a night. Or a day in his case. Mine soon.

I step up the raised platform where his desk sits and stand next to him, laying a gentle hand on his shoulder. Eris perks up and smiles at me. He takes my hand from its resting place and places soft kisses all over the back of it. “My sweet, how are you feeling today?”

“Happy, my love.” Eris’s smile widens at my words. He was overjoyed when I told him I would turn for him. I don’t think I had seen that much emotion from him. Eris hadn’t stopped showing me that joy.

Eris pushed his chair back, patting one of his muscular thighs for me to sit on. I drape my arms around his shoulders and sit, resting my head on his chest. “Are you nervous at all?” I adjust my neck to look up at him and start to play with the ends of his long auburn hair that’s tied back today. “A little. I just want everything to be perfect is all.”

Eris hums. “It will be my sweet. I will be there with you every step of the way.” Eris brings his hand to cup the back of my neck. His thumb brushed over the small puncture scars from his fangs when he marked me as his. I shiver at the touch.

“Thank you, Eris.” He kisses the top of my head and stands, placing me on the ground as well.

Cupping my face with both hands he stares deeply into my eyes. “I love you so much, y/n. I don’t say this enough, but you have made me the happiest male in the whole world. And I’m so happy it is you who will be by my side forever.”

I feel tears prick at my eyes as Eris rests his forehead against mine. “Oh Eris, you make me so happy too.” I rise up on my toes and connect my lips to his in a short but passionate kiss. It pained me to pull apart from him but I must get ready for tonight. The party will start immediately after sundown and the other lords are already on their way.

“I have to go, my love. I’ll see you later.” Eris gives me one last parting kiss after walking me to the doors. As I walk down the hall towards my chambers I wring my hands to get out my nerves. Tonight would be perfect. And everything will be fine.

—

Ophelia finished pinning my hair up in a soft, romantic bun with a few strands of hair left loose in my face. When she moved away I turned to check my dress one last time. Staring straight at my reflection I smooth down my red silky dress.

“It’s time my lady.” Ophelia said in a sing-song voice. She holds my door open for me and I float out into the hall.

As I get closer to the ballroom the chattering of our guests gets louder and louder. I stop behind the closed double doors and wait to announced.

I take one last deep breath before putting a stoic look on my face. To show that I’m ready and willing to take this next step.

Eris’s lead advisor announces my arrival and the doors open. Revealing the crowd parted down the middle of the room. Eris’s throne has been moved in here for the occasion. He sits at the end of the makeshift aisle. A long blood-red carpet separating us.

He looks otherworldly in his white suit. The gold embellishments glinting in the candle light that surrounds him. Eris smiles at me, beckoning me forward. Giving me a look that says, you don’t need to worry my sweet it’s just you and me.

I take a step, then another and another. Remembering to pace myself. To not look too eager or too hesitant.

I finally reach Eris with a stupid grin plastered on my face. All stoicism melting away. Before I could kneel at his feet and expose my neck to him he stood.

There were scattered murmurs among the crowd. I couldn’t be bothered to worry about what anyone was saying. Not when Eris is holding my chin between his fingers and looking at me like I’m the only person in the room. “Remember,” he whispers, “I’m here every step of the way.”

I give him a small smile and nod. “Ready?” “Ready.”

Eris turns me to the crowd. As he gives his speech about this being the first Turning Ceremony in two hundred years and he’s glad to give the lords and his subjects to celebrate, I look around the room. I take in the vampire lords for the first time. They’re all so different. I’ll have to ask Eris more about the different courts if I’m to be his queen soon.

As Eris finishes his speech and my attention is brought back to him. He leans down to whisper in my ear. “You smell divine, my sweet. Sinking my fangs into you this evening will be even better than before.” Eris noses down my neck, taking in my scent.

He stops right at my puncture scar and licks. I start getting impatient and push my neck subtly at his mouth. He lets out a breathy chuckle that tickles my skin. “Someone’s eager.” You tsk at him. “Close your eyes and breathe.”

I do as he says in anticipation of the feeling of his fangs sinking into me. After a few more seconds that euphoric pain spreads through me. The intimate scene taking place in front of everyone causing my cheeks to have a pink tint. I bite my lip to hold my moans back.

Eris sucks and sucks and I feel something else. This pain is different than when Eris usually feeds on me. This was the venom Eris prepared me for. It was excruciating. My skin feels tight and clammy. My brain going fuzzy. I feel my canines expand and become sharper.

Eris releases me, wiping at the blood still trickling from my neck.

I can already feel the venom affecting me. Changing my needs and instincts. My mouth feels dry and my tongue heavy. Like a lump of sand I can’t swallow in the middle of my mouth. The mingling of different scents overwhelms me.

Before I know it Eris is sitting me on his throne and snapping at two guards off to the side of the room.

They bring in a Fae female dressed in simple dark robes and force her to her knees at my feet. She looks up at me, closes her eyes, and tilts her neck for me. She must be one of the many Children of the Blessed who sacrifice themselves for these rare rituals.

“For you, my sweet.” Eris says, his voice echoing around the still silent room. I can practically hear everyone holding their breath in anticipation. “Drain her and complete your Turning.” Eris backs away to stand with the court Lords.

I don’t need to be told twice. I grab the female on both sides of her face. I yank her towards me with my new found strength and lean down to sniff her neck. Just like Eris did to me. Her blood is the best thing I’ve smelt in my whole life. Better than any dessert or meal. Better than my favorite white roses.

Without a second thought I bite down into her supple skin and drink like I’m new to the world. The nameless female I drink from occasionally screams from the pain I’m inflicting on her. In the haze of my feeding I’m sure I tried to tell her to be quiet.

Once I feel her go limp I don’t stop. I can’t stop. Not until she’s dry. Not until I’m satisfied.

I can taste the last of her blood coming up. It reminds me of the last of the liquid left in a teapot. I detach myself from her, letting her body fall to the floor. Blood dribbles down my chin and onto my exposed chest. Looking up I search for Eris.

Eris was staring at me with piercing, wild eyes. The corners of his pale lips upturned in a wicked grin. He was looking at me like he had never seen something so beautiful. The sight of me covered in blood, committing myself even further to him brought him joy.

I started to wipe the female's blood from my chin, smearing it on my hands. Eris was before me in an instant. His pale slender hand wrapped around my wrist bringing my hand to his mouth to lick. To taste what my first drink tasted like.

A low growl came from his chest as his eyes closed. I fell forward, still a little weak from the venom and feeding for the first time. My bloody hands leave marks on his crisp white jacket.

Cheers erupt around us. Our guests ecstatic to have a new vampire in their midst. I smile up at my stunning fiancé. The love of my life. My King. I feel like I’m seeing him in a whole new light. Like he’s brighter, more clear.

My smile shows off my fangs and the blood coating my teeth. “Hi.” I whisper at him. The party was in full swing now. Our guests back to chatting and enjoying the music.

“Hello, my sweet.” Eris thumbs at the sharpness of one of my fangs. “You are the most beautiful thing I’ve ever seen.” His voice smooth and deep.

“Shall we join the party?” He shakes his head a little, “Not yet. I want to admire you like this for a bit longer.”

[magicalsniper]

A Vampire Resides in Camelot

4,118 words | Teen | Part 2 of 12 Author's AO3: MagicalSniper Story Link: A Vampire Resides in Camelot Part One

Summary: In the kingdom where the Pendragons reign supreme as ruthless vampire hunters, Arthur Pendragon stands as the most feared and skilled of them all. His loyal servant, Merlin, appears to be a clumsy, scrawny, and goofy young man, but secretly, he is a pureblood vampire—the rarest and most powerful kind. As Arthur travels the land, slaying vampires and declaring them dangerous monsters, Merlin remains by his side, hiding his true nature. Initially, Merlin's need for blood is minimal, allowing him to pass as a human with ease by claiming the vials of blood from Gaius are medicinal. However, as Merlin's strength grows, so does his thirst, and he becomes increasingly desperate to avoid drinking human blood, fearing he will become the very monster Arthur hunts. When the charade unravels, and Arthur discovers Merlin's true identity, their world is thrown into chaos. Faced with losing his friend, Arthur makes the ultimate sacrifice: offering his own blood to keep Merlin alive.

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The One Where Merlin Struggles with Puberty

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Arthur strode into the great hall, his boots echoing against the stone floor, with a determined glint in his steely blue eyes. His father, King Uther Pendragon, sat upon his throne, a figure of imposing authority. His scrutinising gaze fell upon his son like his very presence disappointed him. 

"Father," Arthur began, his voice resonant within the chamber, "the villages at our borders are succumbing to vampire attacks. The people live in constant fear; their lives are being destroyed."

Uther's gaze remained unyielding as he replied curtly, "Those are outlying territories, Arthur. There is no immediate threat to the castle’s safety."

"Then, at what point does their suffering become our concern?" Arthur's tone rose, laced with frustration. "When they are but half a day's walk from our walls? When the terror is upon our doorstep and half our people have already been turned?"

"Exactly," Uther said, his voice cold. "That is when it becomes a matter for the crown."

Arthur's jaw clenched; he knew that waiting was not an option. The problem would only get worse if they allowed it to continue. With a curt nod, more to himself than to his father, he turned on his heel and departed, his mind set on a quest to rid the kingdom of its lurking shadows.

Meanwhile, Merlin paced in Gaius' candlelit chambers, the flickering light casting long shadows on the stone walls. Dusty shelves, crammed with vials, herbs, and ancient texts surrounded him. A large wooden table in the centre held various alchemical instruments and an open book, which Gaius stood before with a deep frown. He turned from the book and watched with weary eyes as Merlin paced back and forth, his dark hair tousled, his usually mischievous blue eyes now clouded with angst.

"Merlin, you must calm yourself," Gaius urged.

"Easy for you to say, Gaius," Merlin replied, a wry smile flickering across his pale features. "You don't have fangs threatening to sprout whenever you smell a fresh pie."

"Indeed, I have other ailments to worry about at my age," Gaius quipped, but his expression soon softened. "What happened?"

“I felt bloodlust,” Merlin stopped pacing, his shoulders slumping. "Stronger than ever. My senses and strength intensified, and I could barely hold back... If this continues, I will lose control."

"In those times, you have to try to remember who you are, Merlin—a young man with a kind heart, no matter what runs in your veins," Gaius assured him, placing a comforting hand on the young vampire's shoulder.

"Kind heart, maybe," Merlin mused, a spark of his usual levity returning. "But if you ever see me eyeing your neck, feel free to whack me with your walking stick."

"Rest assured, I'll do so without hesitation," Gaius replied, his lips twitching in amusement.

He motioned for Merlin to sit at the table before sitting opposite him. “Has your mother told you anything about pureblood puberty?”

Merlin scrunched up his nose. “Another puberty?” He barely just left the last one!

“Pureblood vampires, Merlin, experience puberty quite unlike humans. It's a critical and turbulent time for them. Their abilities and instincts are heightened to extreme levels. Their senses become razor-sharp, and their strength can be overwhelming.”

Merlin leaned forward, his eyebrows drawn low on his face. “That sounds… dangerous.”

“It is. You will have to learn how to control your new powers and urges. Without proper guidance, you could be a threat to yourself or those around you.” Giaus pushed the book between them towards Merlin, pointing to a faded picture on the page. “During this period, your emotions will be intensified. You will be more volatile and more aggressive. This is why many vampire clans have strict rites of passage to help their young navigate this phase.”

Merlin frowned, “But I don’t have a clan… what are these rites of passage?”

“Rites and trials designed to teach control and responsibility. Normally, those going through puberty are often secluded from society until they have mastered their abilities.”

“What!?” Merlin cried, jumping up. “Secluded? I can’t seclude myself. What am I going to do?”

“We could send you to your father’s old clan.”

“Absolutely not,” Merlin growled, slamming down his fist. He winced as the sound of cracking wood met his ears. “What… what happens if one doesn’t master their abilities?”

Gaius sighed, closing the book softly. “If a vampire going through puberty fails to gain control, they risk becoming feral, driven by their primal instincts rather than reason. They become a danger to everyone around them.”

Merlin sighed heavily and sank back into his seat, burying his face in his hands. 'What am I going to do, Gaius?' he whispered, fear lacing his voice.

Gaius stood and reached for a small chest on his cluttered bookshelf behind him. He placed it carefully on the table and flipped the lid open to reveal an assortment of glass vials, each filled with a murky red liquid.

“Listen carefully,” he began, his tone shifting to one of utmost seriousness. “We can try something. I created these for Balinor during the tail end of his puberty.”

Merlin took one of the vials and held it up to the light, studying the contents with a frown. “What’s in it?”

“Each contains a single drop of human blood, diluted with herbs and other...less conventional ingredients.”

Merlin eyed the vials warily. “Blood vials?”

"An interim solution," Gaius explained, meeting Merlin's gaze. "They will sate you temporarily, but they are not a replacement for sustenance. You must seek out alternative sources—animals, perhaps."

"Animals," Merlin repeated, the word leaving a bitter taste in his mouth. "Well, at least the blood from the poor creatures Arthur insists on hunting won’t go to waste… And when these vials no longer suffice?"

"That is a bridge we shall cross when we come to it," Gaius said with a resigned sigh. "For now, they will help keep your secret—and your wits about you."

"Thank you, Gaius," Merlin muttered, pocketing several of the vials as the sound of clanking armor approached.

“Merlin!” Arthur's commanding voice rang through the corridor. The door swung open, revealing the future king, eyes blazing angrily. “We haven't much time. Gather our provisions; we leave by the next candle mark.”

"Right away, sire," Merlin replied, slipping another vial discreetly into his pocket.

As Merlin ran around to gather the necessary supplies, Arthur inspected an array of weapons on the table before him. He reached for an ornate dagger, its blade engraved with his initials and a dragon head, which his father had gifted him when he turned thirteen. Arthur's hand slipped in his haste, and a thin line of red blossomed across his palm.

Arthur cursed under his breath, his blue eyes narrowing at the sight of his blood.

Merlin's head snapped up at the scent, his fangs aching beneath his lips. He squeezed his eyes shut and pulled out a vial from his pocket. With trembling hands, he uncorked it, the concoction's pungent aroma masking the tantalising smell of Arthur's wound.

He chugged it down and corked the vial back up, shoving it in his pocket before turning to Arthur and sidling up to his side. “Here, let me.” He took Arthur’s injured hand in his, his movements deliberately awkward to distract from his trembling. With his free hand, he reached into the bag on the bed and pulled out a bandage roll.

"I guess even future kings aren’t immune to the sting of their own blades," Merlin jested, trying and failing to hold his breath to keep the smell of blood out of his system, already reaching for a second vial as he pulled away from Arthur. It was going to be a long journey.

Twilight reached across the kingdom, casting a pinkish hue over the dew-laden fields. Arthur and Merlin set forth on their steeds with solemn looks on their faces.

"Remember, keep vigilant. We don’t need you falling off your horse because a rabbit scared you." Arthur teased, even as his eyes scanned the horizon as if he could already see the shadows that skulked in the night.

"That was a vampire rabbit, and you know it," Merlin muttered. “Next time a furry little fanged monster comes at you, I’ll just let it happen.” A pang of unease twisted within him, and he scanned the area for anything hiding in the wood.

As they traversed the cobblestone roads towards a small village, villagers emerged from their homes like wary spectres, their eyes hollow with fear. An old woman approached, her hands gnarled as the branches of the ancient oaks lined the village square.

"Milord," she croaked, her voice carrying the tremble of witnessed horrors. "Our kin vanish, and nothing is left but shadows and blood."

Arthur dismounted, his hand resting upon the hilt of his sword. "Tell us what you have seen," he urged, the furrow of his brow deepening.

Merlin followed suit, the frown on his face deepening. Something didn’t feel right, but he couldn’t quite put his finger on it. He sniffed the area subtly but found nothing of interest.

"The creatures... they come with the moon," another villager chimed in, his words tumbling out in a frantic cascade. "Like death itself, they are—silent and swift."

Merlin half-listened to the stories. Between the treacherous whispers that taunted him and the feeling of unease that he felt from the area, he was struggling to concentrate. It was usually the same story—someone, or multiple someones, went missing in the middle of the night, only to turn up several days later with red eyes ready to destroy them all. 

It was late into the evening when Arthur and Merlin were about to find solace beneath the boughs of an ancient grove.

"We need a good strategy," Arthur said, unsheathing his blade and inspecting the edge with a critical eye. "We should seek them out under the cover of night. We'll strike swiftly, using the element of surprise."

"Surprise is good, but caution is better," Merlin countered, the image of Gaius's vials flashing in his mind. "These creatures are cunning. We must not underestimate them or risk becoming prey to overconfidence."

"Afraid, Merlin?" Arthur teased.

"You can’t win everything with stupidity and a sword," Merlin quipped, his humour a thin veil over his gnawing anxiety.

Arthur reached over and cuffed him over the back of the head. “Shut up.”

Several hours later, a sombre view unfolded before Arthur and Merlin as they crested the low hillock. The village below lay in disarray, homes ransacked, timbers charred, and an eerie silence hanging over the desolation like a shroud.

Arthur swore under his breath, his jaw set with a grim determination as he surveyed the wreckage.

Merlin followed close behind, his gaze darting about nervously. The scent of blood hung thick in the air, coppery and sweet, and he was forced to hold his breath. He reached into his cloak and clasped a vial. With a furtive glance at Arthur, he uncorked it and took a swift draught, feeling the potion's immediate, albeit fleeting, relief.

"Stay vigilant, Merlin," Arthur said, oblivious to the inner turmoil of his companion.

"No, I’ll walk about with my eyes closed," Merlin snarked.

They stepped through the crumbling gate, each footfall stirring up the ashes of the once fertile lands. Around them, remnants of life stood still—dolls abandoned mid-play, pots overturned, their contents seeping into the earth.

"Such destruction…" Merlin's words trailed off as he knelt beside a fallen beam, his fingers tracing the scorched wood. He froze as his skin began to tighten and his senses sharpen. Desperately, he consumed another vial, the concoction bitter on his tongue.

"What’s wrong with you?" Arthur eyed him with a hint of concern.

"Headache," Merlin lied smoothly, averting his eyes so Arthur wouldn’t see the change in his eye colour.

"Come, let’s see if any evidence was left behind."

Together, they moved deeper into the devastated village, passing by splintered doors and ripped animal carcasses. Arthur's hand rested on the hilt of his sword as they scanned the area.

"Look," Merlin pointed toward the well, where dark stains marred the stones. He held his breath again, feeling his fangs fall. The scent of fear and blood was too delicious to his senses for his body not to react. He pushed his trembling hands into his pockets to hide them from view. His next vial would need to wait, but for how long, he could not say. As the shadows grew long, so too did the thin line he walked between loyalty and the beast within.

A cold gust of wind signalled their foes' approach. Vampires emerged from the obsidian shadows, silent as death, their eyes gleaming with feral hunger. Arthur's sword was out instantly, its blade reflecting the scant moonlight with deadly promise.

As steel met undead flesh, Merlin wrestled with the tumultuous storm inside him. His blood sang with the call of his kindred, yet his heart belonged to the realm of men. With a silent invocation, he summoned the arcane winds, his hands weaving incantations that sparked with eldritch energy.

Merlin snapped his fingers, and a surge of mystical force burst forth, striking the vampires with stunning light.

Together, they fought—a symphony of blade and magic. Arthur's courage never wavered, and his every strike was a testament to his resolve to protect his kingdom. Merlin's spells danced between the trees, their radiance illuminating the battlefield with flashes of spectral light.

"Your aim improves by the day, Merlin!" Arthur called out amidst the fray, a grin on his face even as he dispatched another foe. “Then again, anything is an improvement from nothing.”

"Learning from the best," Merlin shot back, throwing back his head in a laugh as Arthur tripped over a conveniently placed rock.

Finally, as the last vampire fell to the ground, silence descended upon them once more. Arthur wiped his brow, his chest heaving from exertion, but his eyes shone with the fire of victory.

"Another battle won," he declared, sheathing his sword.

Merlin nodded, exhaustion clawing at his limbs. He took a deep breath, wincing at the taste of acrid blood in the air. "Yes," Merlin agreed, his voice steady despite the weakness he felt.

The ground was cold and unforgiving, swallowed by the creeping tendrils of evening fog. Arthur's armoured boots struck the ground confidently, while Merlin moved with less certainty, his thoughts as scattered as the mist veiling the area.

"Are you sure we're headed in the right direction?" Merlin asked as he glanced over at Arthur, a teasing smile on his lips. "You know, you tend to struggle with reading the stars."

Arthur didn't stop, but a half-smile formed on his lips at Merlin's jest. "No, Merlin, the stars are aligned for us, not against us," he replied, firm yet with a touch of mirth. "Stay sharp. We're close."

Merlin snorted if only Arthur had any idea. 

As they delved deeper into the labyrinthine forest, an unsettling prickle danced along Merlin's neck. His senses whispered of something lurking in the shadows. He strained his ears, trying to catch the soft footfalls of the unseen follower. The air was still, too still, and carried a scent both unfamiliar yet oddly recognisable.

"Arthur," Merlin murmured, drawing closer to the prince. "We're not alone."

Arthur's hand instinctively gripped the hilt of his sword, his heart pounding as his eyes scanned the darkened surroundings. "Reveal yourself!" he commanded, his voice echoing off the stone walls. Only silence answered his call.

"Maybe it's just a stray cat," Merlin chuckled, though his heart hammered in his chest.

“Leave it to you to be frightened by a kitten,” Arthur scoffed. Despite his words, he remained tense and squinted into the darkness.

“They’re coming,” Merlin murmured, his eyes flashing gold. “They’re using something to shield themselves from me. I can only tell that we’ve met them before.”

“Friend or foe?”

“We’re about to find out.” Merlin tensed as her gaze lingered on them from the embrace of darkness— a pair of emerald eyes glaring out from the trees at them.

The figure stepped forward, the moonlight revealing her face. Morgana emerged from her concealment, her long dark hair cascading like a raven's wing and her piercing green eyes fixed on her half-brother with an intensity that could cut through steel. 

"Arthur," she said, her voice melodious.

Startled, Arthur almost dropped his sword at the sight of her disarming him. “Morgana!” Shock and relief battled on his face as he stared at the sister he thought he had lost. “Where have you been?”

"Six months, dear brother, and nary a sign of you," Morgana stated, her tone both accusatory and playful. "And here I thought you'd forgotten me."

Merlin watched her warily but closed the gap and joined Arthur in a heartfelt embrace that enveloped Morgana. "We feared the worst," Merlin confessed, his eyes still taking her in, a frown on his face. He subtly leaned closer and sniffed at her neck. It was Morgana, that much he was certain of, but she definitely had a scent on her he had sensed on her before. The look she gave him as he pulled away did not go unnoticed. 

“Yet here I am,” was her simple reply. “I am afraid I come with dire news.”

"What do you mean?" Arthur urged, his brows knitting together. "Have you heard about what has been happening?"

“You’re chasing the fodder when it is the puppeteer you should seek,” Morgana stated plainly, her eyes flicking to Merlin’s before returning to Arthur’s.

It was just as Merlin had feared then. He cleared his throat, “Armies are being created then? To what end?”

“Is it not obvious?”

Unfortunately.

Merlin scowled, “Just what we needed.”

“Enough of this nonsense,” Arthur commanded. "Six months vanished without a trace," he muttered, more to himself than to the enigma before him. "And now you return with tales of darkness? It ill suits you to play the seer, Morgana."

Merlin snorted and rolled his eyes at the heavens.

"Does it?" Morgana's voice was silk over steel. "Or does it simply displease you that I might know something you do not?"

"You’re making no sense," Arthur retorted. "You speak of vampires as if they’re capable of taking over a kingdom! Their mindless creatures, nothing more."

Morgana’s eyes bored into Arthur’s before turning to Merlin. “Is that what you believe?” Merlin’s heart dropped to his stomach. She knew.

“I—” Merlin was saved from answering by a bloodcurdling scream piercing the night air.

The abruptness of the scream tore through them, and their heads snapped towards the direction of the disturbance. Merlin sniffed the air and froze, “Oh no.” 

"Arthur," Merlin warned his voice barely above a whisper yet carrying an edge of urgency. That scream hadn’t been human— it was primal, guttural, and filled with a rage that sent your blood cold.

As the echoes of the scream died down, a massive shadow lunged from the trees, its form grotesque in the moonlight. A werewolf, its fur matted with blood and filth, bore its fangs— a snarl ripping from its throat as it set its sights on them.

"Merlin, do something!" Arthur shouted, stepping protectively in front of Morgana with his sword extended.

Merlin extended his hands, murmuring incantations under his breath as his eyes burned gold. These spells should have calmed the beast or turned it away, but the words dissolved into the night, powerless. His magic, usually so potent against creatures of the night, fizzled into nothingness. He stared, mouth agape, unable to comprehend what was happening.

“What is wrong with your magic?”Arthur grunted, dodging the werewolf’s swipe, his blade meeting the creature’s hide with a clang.

"I—I don’t know!" Merlin replied, panic lacing his voice. He racked his brain for any alternative, but his thoughts were chaotic. How could this be happening? Werewolves were susceptible to magic—it was one of the few advantages they had against such monsters.

"Vampire magic doesn't work on them," Arthur said between breaths, dodging another attack. "But yours should!"

“Oh, should it, Arthur. Should it? I had no idea,” Merlin snarked. His gaze darted around, searching for anything that could be used as a weapon or distraction. He grabbed a fallen branch, hardly a match for claws and teeth, but he couldn't stand idle while Arthur fought alone.

"Focus, Merlin!" Arthur commanded, narrowly avoiding a particularly vicious lunge from the werewolf. "We need to drive it back!"

"Right," Merlin said, forcing confidence into his tone. He feinted at the werewolf with the branch, hoping to draw its attention long enough for Arthur to find an opening.

“Behind you!” A strong voice from behind them called.

Arthur spun, his blade glinting in the pale light as he managed to slice across the beast's flank. The werewolf howled, the sound mingling with the clashing of metal and the thundering of their hearts.

A man with dark wavy hair and a strong athletic build got between Arthur and the werewolf. His sword gleaming under the moon’s pale light, he met the creature mid-leap and turned its ferocity aside with a well-placed blow.

"Stay behind me!"  The man shouted, parrying another swipe of the werewolf's deadly claws.

"Behind you? You'll find I'm quite capable of standing at your side," Arthur retorted grimly, joining the fray.

The two men’s movements were synchronised as if they had trained together for years. The man was precise, finding weak spots in the beast's defenses, while Arthur's strength drove the creature back, step by torturous step.

Who is this man? Merlin wondered silently, clutching the useless branch against his chest. He felt a pang of guilt for his inaction, but there wasn’t much left he could do. To engage would mean to reveal, and revelation was a luxury he could ill afford.

"Merlin! A little help here!" Arthur's voice cut through his reverie, tinged with urgency. Arthur's blade sang a metallic song as it cleaved through the air, narrowly missing the werewolf's snapping jaws. The beast was a maelstrom of claws and fury, each blow from its massive paws sending sparks flying from Arthur's armour. The prince's face was set in grim determination, blue eyes tracking every move with predatory precision.

"Right," Merlin muttered to himself. "Help. Without magic." The irony was not lost on him. He was a vampire who couldn't fight a werewolf with strength lest he reveal himself, and a wizard who couldn’t fight the werewolf because of a magic that should have worked but didn't. The absurdity of it all would have been laughable under different circumstances.

He watched the man move, throwing himself into the fray with a ferocity that matched the beast they fought. There was something inherently noble about him, an aura that spoke of chivalry and honour—the very ideals Arthur so cherished in his knights. It was no wonder they fought well together.

"What are you doing, Merlin!?" Arthur grunted, sidestepping a vicious pounce and driving his sword into the werewolf's flank.

With a howl that seemed to shake the very stones beneath their feet, the creature stumbled, its form shimmering as it tried to flee—but in a moment of quick thinking, Merlin shot out his hand, “Fyr!”

A line of fire blocked off the werewolf’s escape. “Fire, they hate fire!”

Arthur and the man seized the opportunity. The man harried the beast, keeping it engaged and enraged, while Arthur readied himself for the killing blow.

"Keep it steady, Merlin.” The man called, “Just a little longer..."

With a mighty roar, Arthur lunged forward, his sword glinting in the torchlight. The werewolf, caught off guard by the sudden assault, had no time to evade. The silver blade, guided by Arthur's unwavering hand, found its mark, plunging deep into the creature's chest. A howl of agony split the night as the werewolf's form shuddered and then stilled, its body reverting to the twisted shape of a man.

"Good thinking with the fire, Merlin," Arthur said, clapping him on the shoulder with a grin that belied the seriousness of their situation.

"Yeah," Merlin replied distractedly, a frown on his face as his mind was elsewhere. Why did his magic not work on werewolves all of a sudden? Did it have to do with his ‘vampire puberty’? And if so, what was he going to tell Arthur? “Hey, Mor— where did Morgana go?”

Morgana's second disappearance left them with more questions than answers, and Merlin knew they were far from unravelling the mysteries that ensnared them.

As they gathered, ready to continue their quest into the night, Merlin cast one last glance at the fallen foe. The battle was won, yet the war was far from over.

[gremlin-writes-angst]

The Kings Blood

Chapter one of my Royal Vampiric Redacted AU

I posted " The King Precious" a small piece of this story, this is the beginning of the story. You don't need to read "The King Precious" for this story to make sense but if you'd like to it is linked

This story is about the servants so there are uncomfortable bits of unconceual stuff, I will label the chapters as specifically as I can.

Words: 1.5 k

Characters: William, Quinn, Tank, Vincent, Sam, Porter and Treasure

Tw: Servitude, mention of character death ( non-descriptive), vague threats, Quinn, Unconsensual smelling ( vampires smelling human blood), nonconsensual control ( pushing and pulling a person around) Vampires speaking down about the human race ( sees them as meat and servants.)

They were gathered at the entrance chattering among themselves

The king didn't leave often and when he did he made it a point to update his people on his journey 

Except for this time

Which put everyone on edge

They were all ready for answers from their king

The chattering halted when the grand doors opened 

Revealing a vampire that no one could name

The people began to talk again

Watching and judging the man as he just stood there

The sound of heavy metal hitting the floor rang through the castle 

King William's cane rolled across the floor

The room filled with fearful silence

The man who through the cane spoke

“Perfect.”

Everyone was confused, but too afraid to talk or look away

“ Servants of Dahlia castle. I, Quinn Fox, have killed your king.”

The people stayed quiet but a chill ran through everyone

“ Compared to King William's power, you servants are nothing so I exp-

“ Residents.”

Vincent, the adopted prince of Dahlia, steps out from the crowd.

He moves without fear approaching the vampire

“ They are not servants.”

Vincent is too distracted by his rage to notice the vampire wave for protection, but the crowd stays silent.

Vincent steps closer

“They are the residents of King William.”

Before he can take another step, a knight blocks his way, a sword dangerously close to his chest.

The sword isn't what stops Vincent.

It is the face of the knight

“ Good Porter. Let's be a little faster next time.”

Porter moves forward forcing Vincent back into the crowd.

“ Like I said William is dead, making him no longer king. So I will call my servants what I want.”

“YOUR SERV-”

Porter's sword moves closer, shutting Vincent up

“ I dearly hope the rest of you aren't this idiotic. Yes, MY servants. I killed your king and have come here for the throne. So make way.”

Porter releases his sword and makes his way towards the throne

A few people whisper ‘traitor’ as he makes his way through

He ignores them

Many people notice a frail-looking person following behind their new ruler.

The person is shackled, bites liter their body, and their head stays pointed to the ground.

The people know what this is, it wasn't uncommon for powerful vampires to keep specific humans as constant food.

It made the people uncomfortable because they realized that could be their future

King William was described as strange by many powerful vampires, because of the way he treated humans.

Most vampires saw them as cattle, servants they could feed off and sell.

William saw something else. 

He treated the act of feeding as a trade, humans sacrifice their blood and in return, they would be given extra rest from their other duties, or if they preferred extra resources.

The people began to realize that their luck had run out.

William's killer took a seat on the throne.

He was pleased, his arrogance was palpable

As Quinn sat in the throne his eye scanned through the crowd.

Everyone saw as his pupils blew open and his eyes landed on someone.

“Delicious.”

His grin grew, as the person he spotted looked into his eyes

“Porter, retrieve that one for me.”

Porter took a step before stopping as the person stepped forward their self

“I do not need to be assisted.”

The person boldly strutted up to the throne

Stopping a mear foot away from the new king

“ What is it you want from me.”

Quinn laughed

“ You are quite bold for a human.”

He waited for a reaction from the human, disappointed to only receive an emotionless glare

“Tell me precious, what's your family name?”

“ Why does it matter?”

The room got tenser every time they spoke

“Testing a theory.”

“ I never knew my family.”

“Ohh how sad. Now I'll never know for sure.”

“Know what?”

He ignored their question

“Anyone ever tell you how amazing you smell?”

In retaliation to his avoidance, they stayed quiet.

“Well, you smell divine. Quite literally in fact. You see, some families have blood that is more enticing to certain vampire clans. Cost us vampires a pretty penny. And your blood, my precious.”

He takes their hand, pressing his nose into it as he breathes in the scent of their blood.

“ Was made for me.”

He looks at them, his eyes have turned red. 

He watches as the human still doesn't react.

“ You don't believe me?”

The human doesn't reply

He is starting to like this challenge

“I shall prove it.”

He stands up from the throne

He makes his way to the edge of the crowd.

Investigating the servants closer than before.

When catches a hint of what he is looking for he motions his hands

The people move out of his way. 

He smiles when he locks eyes with the vamp.

He motions for the vampire servants to approach. 

He obeys

“You are a vampire, correct?”

The man replies call a steady.

“Not compared to you sir, but yes.”

“Oh, I can tell.”

The king scuffed at the lower vampire 

“Come”

The two make it out of the crowd and back to the throne, where the person remained

The king took rest in his throne, before instructing the other vampire.

“ Smell their blood, and describe it to me.”

The two servants faced each other.

The vampire's jaw tightened as he looked at his close friend

He hadn't done anything yet but his eyes could only be described as apologetic

“ Word of advice for the future, I am not a patient king, nor am I merciful. So, smell them.”

Sam peered through the corner of his eyes at his new supposed king.

He knew this man was dangerous

He peered back at Vincent

The only one in the castle who understood the torment this brought Sam.

Sam respected and cared for this person too much to act without permission.

This isn't how he wanted this to go.

Not to mention that he didn't need to get close to describe their scent

He knew it better than he knew his family

It was best to keep that hidden from the king

To Sam, the best choice was to defy the king.

He was ready for the punishment.

Vincent could tell exactly what he was thinking

He cursed him silently, feeling powerless

Then they lifted their hand

Sams's eyes widened

This situation was unique

But he never expected them to play this man's game.

Sam looked into their eyes.

He had never seen that look in their eyes

A little watery

So bright

With fear

With need

Their eyes were the definition of pleading

And he couldn't deny them

So as gently as he could, his hand met theirs

Taking the weight for himself

He stepped closer

He looked into their eyes again

His eyes red

Yet still full of apologies

He held this eye contact as he leaned down to their wrist

Their pulse was strong, almost racing

He noted it as fear as he took a moment to smell for their blood

Instinctively closing his eyes as he took it in

Fresh rain

Pine trees

The smell of a forest path on a dewy morning

The smell makes Sam dream of the world outside of this castle

Outside in the free, empty land that he used to call home.

He rises away from their hand, softly dropping it back to them

His eyes still closed as he takes a deep breath, cleansing his senses.

He opens his eyes

They've returned to dark silver

He gives them a comforting smile before turning to Quinn

“They smell of pine, sir.”

Quinn's smile grows

“ And what do most of the humans you feed off smell like?”

He is taken aback

“I don't feed often sir”

Quinn rolls his eyes

“Well of course, not with your weak blood. Still, answer my question."

Sam felt humiliated in front of his human friends. 

Though he answered

“Meat sir.”

“Exactly, you can return to the crowd.”

Sam wants to risk a look at them but he's smarter than that. 

He returns the crowd

Once he is there and Quinn knows everyone is watching he grabs the servant

The smallest gasp escapes their mouth as he pulls them closer to him by their wrist

They land on his lap

“ You see precious. Most humans smell like meat, then there's some that smell of fruit, those aren't too rare to find, just rare to find unclaimed. Now you…”

He takes a sniff from their collarbone to their ear

“ You smell like a forest. Seems unappetizing to now vampires but it's a true treat. You were made for vampires. Your family is a line of breed humans the vampire desired. Unfortunately, they weren't pleased with that life and many did everything they could to escape, even ending their own lives…but you are here, by some miracle, just for me.”

No one could see

Even if they could they were too busy watching the king

But sams mouth was filling with his blood

His fingernails made gashes in his hand

Holding himself back

Refusing to make this worse 

Vincent noticed as his friend blew hot air from his nose

He was ready to step in himself to stop this from going any further

But someone else had the same idea.

“Sir, are you ready to be shown the rest of the castle?”

Porter announced 

Quinn's eyes brightened ready for more royal pleasures

“Of course.”

THANKS FOR READING!!!!

Tell me if you see a grammatical mistake or if I missed a trigger warning

(Secret tip if you want more of this story then leave a like or reblog, it's my biggest motivator.)

If you want to see more of my work here is my masterlist

[sapphicfanficrecs]

LottieNat: "Pressure" by peanutbutterswirl (Chapters 1/1 / Mature/ 5k)

AO3 LINK

Author Summary: Lottie has spent her whole life in a castle, tending to the royal duties that a princess must do. She knows what is expected of her, she knows that soon, she will inherit the kingdom, and serve for the rest of her life. But there's a place inside of her that yearns for freedom, and when her personal servant Natalie gets into some trouble, it's up to Lottie to make a decision that will change her life forever.

or

lottie and her vampire gf take an extended road trip and meet a group of supernatural freaks that want nothing more than to watch the world burn

[llamamamarisen92]

The Wolf and the Lion

Chapter 2 - The Devil’s Impatient Fiddle

Chapter 1 Link:

https://www.tumblr.com/llamamamarisen92/760358991851290624/the-wolf-and-the-lion?source=share

Chapter 3 Link:

https://www.tumblr.com/llamamamarisen92/760459094954065920/the-wolf-and-the-lion-chapter-3-a-bottle-of-wine?source=share

Named Dark Urge

Pre-BG3 Dark Urge/Gortash Head Canon

Warning: Threats of violence

Characters: Johim (Durge), Gortash, Cazador

Word Count: 1,100ish

By: Jesh Llamas

A few weeks went by without a response from Gortash. He was growing tired of waiting around. Today he had some business to conduct with the Szarr family. Their lord was a tiresome fellow and he would rather chop off his own ear than sit listening to Cazador ranting about whoever wronged him this time. He knew what Cazador was and it suited him for the most part to filter some of the temple's victims to him for a steep price. The vampires underlings were also very good at getting valuable information. Not that his spawn was ever around when Johim showed up at the castle.

He put on a brightly colored tunic with billowing pants. Tying the outfit together with a tasseled linen waist wrap. Deciding whether he should bring his fiddle or not? When he was out in public he usually acted the bard. Finally deciding to grab it he headed out for his meeting. He enjoyed walking through the streets. A group of young women giggled as he walked by. He grinned flirtatiously and winked before continuing on his journey. Cazador's castle loomed ahead and he snapped his fingers to ensure he was invisible on his approach. Walking up the castle stairs undetected. Before he opened the door he made sure he was transformed into the form Cazador and other collaborators knew. A towering white dragon born. A picture of might and power. The sun was out and so he knew he wasn't in any danger from any of Cazador's tricks. Not that he ever was. If it ever came down to it he could put him in his place easy enough.

"Come in Lord Ba'elwyn, the master is waiting for you in his receiving room."

Barely glancing down he walked past the servant with his head held high. This was the dragon. Where the bard was fun and flirtatious among the crowds, the dragon was serious and never lowered himself enough to address servants directly. Cazador sat upon a chair that tastelessly mimicked a throne. The entire castle's decor was tasteless. The overdone design of a delusional maniac with the overpowering scent of perfume wafting in the air.

"Welcome Lord Ba'elwyn to my home." Cazador watched him with impertinence. It vexed him that Johim refused to bow or show deference.

Johim sat across from him. Not so much as allowing his chin to dip an inch towards him. He sat there silently waiting with an air of dangerous boredom.

Cazador cleared his throat. After a few more minutes he sighed with frustration and came out with his request.

"I am struggling to... locate my staff."

Johim's eyebrow raised, taking on an impatient tone. "You called on me to locate a missing trinket?" He leaned back into the chair, the tip of his illusory tail swaying back and forth.

"It's not just any trinket! You fo-."

Cazador was smart enough to stop himself before ending up in a situation where he was skewered on Bhaal's altar. He breathed, pinching the bridge of his nose in frustration before continuing.

"The staff is an heirloom and I need it to conduct certain business."

"And what makes your trinket worth my time?"

"Ah, it is a gift passed to my ancestors by Mephistopheles himself. Trust me when I say this trinket is worth your precious time."

He loved to brag. It was what made him such a fount of information. So sure in his power that he was careless with his words. Perhaps there was an opportunity for him to take advantage of this man's careless tongue.

"I can have some men of mine locate your trinket. But only if you have good answers to some of my questions."

Cazador nodded.

"What do you know about a man named Enver Gortash?"

Cazador smirked. "He's a minor player. An artificer who's been trying to work his way up the ranks with our city's grand players." He examined his nails before continuing. "I've heard he studied under the Gondians and is quite promising in his talents at the Steel Foundry."

"He seems to have come out of nowhere. I don't recall a Gortash family amongst the sword coast." 

"He's not from a great family." Cazador pointed the toe of his boot in his direction. An ornate boot decorated with crimson bats. "But he does know how to design a marvelous shoe."

"He's a cobbler?" Johim was expecting him to be something a bit more... scholarly. Not a shoe maker.

"Yes. Flymm's cobbler. It's how he was able to gain a foothold with the upper class in the first place. One fashionable boot turns up at court and suddenly everyone needs a pair."

Clever wolf indeed. He was almost tempted to chuckle at the ridiculousness of it. But his composure never broke. He rose from the chair.

"Fine, I will make sure to locate your trinket. You can drop off your payment at the usual spot. Oh, and if you tell anyone about our discussion I'll destroy you." His voice still remained in that bored, neutral tone. Cazador nodded, still steaming at the lack of deference.

He made his way out of the castle invisibly. When he was a good ways away he reappeared in his normal form. Walking until he found the cobblers shop. He perched himself on a fountain across from it with his fiddle out. Watching the shop as he played a crowd drawing melody. Something soft and playful with a dangerous undertone. He glanced up at a window two stories high. Grinning wildly when he found a face smiling right back at him.

[oldtvandcomics]

Happy Queer Media Monday!

Today: Carmilla

(One of the many covers of the novella “Carmilla”, this one featuring Carmilla (sitting) and Laura (standing) next to each other. It was one of the two original illustrations when the story was first published.)

Carmilla is a novella by Joseph Sheridan Le Fanu, first published in 1872. It is one of the early vampire stories, pre-dating Dracula by 26 years. It is a gothic horror novella, but from what I’ve seen, all the lesbians read it as a love story, in which case it is of course incredibly tragic.

The story is told from the point of view of Laura, a young girl who grew up and is living a very isolated life in a secluded castle in what is today Austria, with only her father and a few servants as a company most of the time. She had been planning to spend some time with a friend, but said friend unexpectedly died. Lucky for Laura, a mysterious girl and her mother have a carriage accident just before their door, and as the mother is in a hurry and can’t wait for her daughter to recover, Laura’s father offers to look after her for a while. The girl, called Carmilla, is about Laura’s age, and the two very quickly develop a very close and very homoerotic bond. Laura falls ill with a mysterious illness, which definitely has nothing to do with Carmilla being the 17th century countess Mircalla Karnstein turned vampire, who recently killed Laura’s friend and is currently murdering the peasant women around the castle, while also feeding on Laura. Definitely not.

Carmilla has reached a cult status by being both a female vampire and a lesbian, and at the origin of the lesbian vampire subgenre. Her name keeps popping up in vampire stories, and the story is still widly loved.

There is a very beloved YouTube webseries based on this story, that leans more into the romance aspect. Other interesting links I have are the novella, Le Fanu’s novella collection that it is part of, an audiobook of the novella, a video essay about lesbian vampires (most of whom are Carmilla), and my lesbian vampire masterpost, which is very incomplete, but features at least a few adaptations of this story. My personal favorite so far is The Crypt of the Vampire (1964).

Queer Media Monday is an action I started to talk about some important and/or interesting parts of our queer heritage, that people, especially young people who are only just beginning to discover the wealth of stories out there, should be aware of. Please feel free to join in on the fun and make your own posts about things you personally find important!

[multiverse-0f-madness]

Link: Dracco now and when he was first transformed

• Parents - Camille and Gaius (biological parents) and Dracula (adoptive dad)

• Full Name - Dracco

• Age - 20 (in human years) and 2000 (in vampire years)

• Birthday - June 12th

• Gender - male, cis

• Nationality - Székely

• Birthplace - Romania

• Languages Spoken / Read - Too many to count (I mean, the guy’s been alive for 2000 years)

• Sexual Orientation - pansexual

• Hair Color - black hair

• Eye Color - pale purple eyes

• Physical Description - he has pale pink skin, pale purple eyes, short black hair, has pointed ears and fangs. His pale skin with a pink tint is especially sensitive to the sun, he’s quite tall (1,85 m), has some muscles, a sharp jawline and dimples. He has an excellent eyesight, hearing and smell 

• Personality - he is sarcastic, kinda mean with others but very sweet with his little sister Draculaura, is mysterious, smart, tough, loyal, has some  lack of empathy for others, and is very secretive with his personal life. People describe him as scary but he is an amazing person/vampire/older brother and he's also known for being a flirt

• Favorite Food - blood AB negative

• Least Favorite Food - meatloaf 

• Favorite Drink - human blood

• Least Favorite Drink - tea

• Favorite Color - black

• Favorite Sound - the snow hitting the ground on a snowy day

• Favorite Time of Year – winter

• Favorite Animal – black cats

• Favorite Song – In The Hall Of The Mountain King

• Favorite Movie – Scott Pilgrim vs. The World

• Best Activity – reading a book under a tree at the park

• Mother – Camille (biological mother/human)

• Father – Gaius (biological father/human) and Dracula (adoptive father/vampire)

• Sibling – younger sister Draculaura

Dracco is the biological son of Camille and Gaius, human residents in Romania. It so happens that Gaius, a Roman soldier, is the great-great-grandson of Trajan, one of Dracula's servants and friends. However, after he impregnates Camille with Draculaura he is killed in a battle, leaving the widow alone and with no means to support the soon-to-be-born child and little Dracco. In a move of compassion and honor of his old friend, Dracula gives aid to Camille and receives them in his castle. Dracco’s name is an honor to his father’s friend, Dracula. The family decides to move to the Dacia province, actually known as Romania, to offer the kids the environment they need. They both grow to be happy kids, and so did Camilla's and Dracula's relationship, as the vampire promotes her to head of the house and soon falls in love with her. However, as Dracula leaves Dacia to attend an old business in Rome, a plague invades the province, killing many of the inhabitants, in which Camilla is included. Dracula arrives home to find that the love of his life is dead and that Draculaura and Dracco are sick too, so to prevent their death, he adopts them and converts them into vampires, giving them immortality and immunity to the plague. From that moment on, they were solely raised by Dracula in the Vampire Court, where they spent most of their days being pampered or attending fabulous balls. Eventually, he started attending high school, in Transylvania, the Monster High.

[goth-catte]

What a fantastic night at Pandemonio tonight. The place was packed, and everybody seemed to be vibing the whole night. Thank you all for your support, thank you for coming and hanging with me while I shared some music. This week I'll be at Club Valkyrie on Wednesday night and the Anti-Social Club on Friday, both at 11pm US Central. And, of course, you can find me at my Pandemonio home every Sunday for the mega-set of goth & industrial.

Dead Can Dance - Children of the Sun Fee Lion - Blood Sisters (Kontravoid Remix) GoodBooks - Leni (vs Crystal Castles) Grey Gallows - Dying Light (Actors Remix) Korine - Train to Harlem She Wants Revenge - What I Want Front 242 - Welcome to Paradise Incubite - Hell Instructor Bigod 20 - Like a Prayer Night Club - Cities in Dust Mechanical Moth - Black Queen Style Ayria - Headhunter Accessory - She Says It Feels Good And One - Metalhammer Front Line Assembly - Mindphaser Ministry - Effigy (I’m Not An) Switchblade Symphony - Dissolve Diary of Dreams - You (-das) Plastique Noir - Asleep in the Night Train Occults - Hot Crucible Christian Death vs Creux Lies - Spiritual Cramp Twin Tribes - Portal to the Void Drab Majesty - Ellipsis HEALTH - Feel Nothing Covenant - Bullet Haujobb - Speed of Pain NIN - Down In It

Depeche Mode - Master & Servant^ Eurythmics - Sweet Dreams (Are Made of This) Gunship & Kat Von D - Black Blood Red Kiss Sisters of Mercy - First and Last and Always Rosetta Stone - Nothing IKON - She’s In Parties Necessary Response - Spilling Blood^ Frozen Plasma - Warmongers Covenant - Der Leiermann Gossamer - Run (Wayne Hussey Mix) Leathers - Missing Scene Ulver - Machine Guns and Peacock Feathers Oscillian - Activate HEALTH - Cyberpunk 2.0.2.0 Accessory - Elektrik Project Pitchfork - Acid Ocean Night Club - Vampires Corlyx - My Body Is Wrong Rein - Dystopia Trevor Something - Enjoy the Silence Hante. - Light//Lies Male Tears - Hit Me Drab Majesty - Dot in the Sky Pixel Grip - ALPHAPUSSY Sad January - Until the End of the World Perturbator ft. Greta Link - Venger Apoptygma Berzerk - Kathy’s Song (Victoria Mix by VNV Nation) Qntal - Veni (Filthy Floor Mix) In Strict Confidence - Promised Land (Club Mix) The Cruxshadows - Helios (Solar Night Mix) Pixel Grip - Club Mania Ministry - Jesus Built My Hotrod Alien Sex Fiend - Ignore the Machine The Chameleons - Second Skin Joy Division - A Means to an End Love Like Blood - Lucretia, My Reflection The Cure - One Hundred Years Black Angel - Serene Only Fire - Double Penetration

[headcanonrepository]

what headcanons do you have so far about the ravenwatch members? also do you have any published fics? i'd love to read them :)

I want to apologise. Because when I got this ask, my intention was to do something like this:

Post at least the first chapter of the fic I had already written

Answer this ask with a link to that fic

Post some headcanons relevant to the fic/that came up while writing

What actually happened:

Put off posting the first chapter of the fic because the last fic in the series wasn't finished (pro tip, if it starts as 'a oneshot' and winds up as a 160k word series, just admit to yourself that it's never going to actually finish)

Type up many headcanon posts and keep them in drafts until the fic is posted, which it wasn't (see point one)

Also convinced myself that I needed to update all my existing fics in different fandoms with a link to both this Tumblr and my main blog, so readers could find me over here

Also needed to update both blogs with a pinned post to get my online life in some semblance of order

Put off all the AO3 and Tumblr maintenance work until I had 'enough time/energy' to do it

Blinked

Time passed. A lot. Not entirely sure how much, but it's definitely a number of months to a year? Or maybe a little bit more?

Finally did the AO3 and Tumblr maintenance on my holiday

Posted the fic

Answered this ask (and will queue the headcanon posts immediately afterwards)

So many many apologies, anon. I truly didn't mean to put this off for quite so long. I have no idea who you are, whether you are still on Tumblr or even still into the Ravenwatch, but I never forgot you. I hope that wherever you are, whatever you are doing, you're having a great time.

And to answer the question, my fic can be found here:

(I have got this fic and the next four fully written, just posting chapters on a weekly basis now. There is a fifth and sixth fic planned in the series, partly written but I'm not going to make promises about when those might ever emerge!) It's an exploration of that one line of Gwendis' about wild Ravenwatch parties, with all the smut that implies. I intended it to be a oneshot, and it ran away with me. Alongside the smut, there's a lot of character development/exploration of the whole Ravenwatch family and the nature of vampirism in Tamriel, so while it is f!Vestige/Verandis/Gwendis centric, pretty much everyone in the Ravenwatch family gets some onscreen time. (including Kallin and Estelle, eventually, because I really wanted to flesh out everyday life at the castle and it always rubbed me up the wrong way that we are told the servants are treated well and have full agency but then nothing ingame actually supports that - this is one of those things I really wanted to be shown, not told)

[amischiefofdeets]

LOUP

>--------------------------------------<

CHARACTER SUMMARY

>--------------------------------------<

Loup is a werewolf and a servant to Lazarus, he considers Lazarus a 'father figure' despite how terribly he's treated and wants to believe the vampire cares for him like a son - or will do so one day. Though he's a werewolf, Loup is a meek creature and avoids confrontation, only putting up a fight if necessary or if ordered to do so by his master. He was purchased from the black market as a young pup originally intended to be an experiment for Lazarus - so he could see if it was possible to turn a werewolf into a vampire also. It failed but he kept the boy since he survived and uses him to maintain his castle, grounds and run errands for him. You'll find Loup around the castle grounds usually hunting for his own food since Lazarus provides him with nothing, he is friendly to others but will try to deter them from heading to the castle for their own safety.

>--------------------------------------<

MUSE DETAILS

>--------------------------------------<

Name: Loup Nicknames: None Race: Born werewolf Born: [UNKNOWN] Age: 170-ish years Height: 6'4 when fully upright Gender: Male Sexuality: No idea Location: The Devil's Woods/The Fae Circle - Formerly Hemlocke Keep Occupation: Formerly a servant, currently none Abilities: Heightened strength, can change forms at will but never utilizes it, heightened speed, agility and sense of smell.

Scars: Many scars hidden beneath his fur. Tattoos: None Alignment: Neutral Good Goals: Hobbies: Likes: Positive affirmations, cooked meats, helping people Dislikes: Being told off or hurt, being left by himself for long amounts of time, talking about Lazarus. Mental state: Fragile, he is quiet is withdrawn after years of abuse, still learning how to be a person more than a tool for others to use. Disabilities: Reputation: Family: Morior - Adoptive father Lazarus - Former 'father' Elias - Adoptive brother Imperium - Adoptive brother Shmichael - Adoptive brother Shmeffry - Adoptive brother Toyhou.se: [LINK] Characterhub: [LINK]

>--------------------------------------<

HISTORY

>--------------------------------------<

Nothing is known of how Loup ended up on the black market or where his parents went, he was far too young to recall any of that and doesn't know that's how he ended up in Lazarus' hands. The vampire bought him to sate his own curiosity, raising him like one would a dog until he decided he was old enough to test a theory. What would happen if a pureblooded vampire tried to turn a werewolf? Would he get a powerful halfling thrall? Unfortunately for Lazarus it didn't work, the two were not compatible and with that any interest Lazarus had in the wolf boy was gone. Loup blamed himself for that, for 'not being good enough' and thus strived for Lazarus' approval by running any errand for him that he asks. Even letting Lazarus drink from him if supplies were running low. Most of his time was spent on the grounds of Hemlocke Keep, hunting for his own food as he knew not to expect Lazarus to feed him. That was until he got close to Elias, the thrall of his master, and escaped with him when urged to do so. He fought about it a decent amount but came to accept his new life, ready to protect Elias from his former master. The two ended up in the circle and got 'adopted' by Mori. Now he's free to wander as he pleases, food is easy to get and he isn't dressed in scraps. He's not entirely sure it's all real but he's learning to trust. A lot of his time is spent painting but he's trying to learn how to read and write, having never been given the opportunity while living with Lazarus.

>--------------------------------------<

TAGS

>--------------------------------------<

Main tag - Headcanons - Ask tag Likes - Aesthetics - Musings - Wardrobe

RELATIONSHIP TAGS

TBA

[kessielrg]

Kingdom Hearts AU: Lay In The Fire: Part 1

Summary: In which Ventus presents Aqua a traveler to feed on, with the promise that she will keep her alive. Things get messy from there.

Notes: Another thing based on luxmoogle’s vampire AU. Sponsored by Tove Lo’s Come Undone from her studio album, Sunshine Kitty. Much longer this time and with 60% of my usual shenanigans. 😘

Word Count: 2,813 words

Series: Stupid Kids: 1. Drink Deep: [1], 2, 3, 4

AO3 Link: here

-

A lone snowy owl sat on a turret from the old, abandoned castle. Small for its type, but no less sharp, it was waiting for something. The vantage point from the turret was excellent to get a sense of the world surrounding. Nothing could escape the eyes of a keen owl from here.

In the village, many were asleep. Those who were not still lingered around the tavern, or kept a candle burning for the chores that couldn’t be done during the day. Servants for a local lord were also out and about. Many were off duty, others were likely gathering secrets to report to their master later.

The owl could even see the outskirts of the traveler camp. An odd troupe, those. Their presence led to crowding of the market streets and the rise of noise complaints. Many were unfounded, some were very rarely justified. The travelers did what they could to survive (it was why they traveled to begin with), and being a momentary nuisance simply came with that. They had made camp there barely a week ago. They would likely leave in a month’s time. When they would be back was determined by many factors, but the current rate seemed to be every year and a half if the weather worked in their favor- or if better land was found.

A small fleck of white in the woods caught the owl’s attention. Coming through the trees was a pure white horse. It moved through with practiced dexterity; almost becoming a phantom in its speed. On it was a maiden with a long velvet cape and wavy hair pulled into a bun, partially kept in place by several meticulously placed braids. The owl sat a bit straighter now.

This was who it was waiting for.

Horse and maiden made their way closer to the castle. The owl left its post as the duo were almost to the castle’s gates. It reached the gates the same moment the other two did.

Seeing the owl and blocked gates caused the maiden to pull on her horse's reins.

“Whoa, Nightmare.” the maiden commanded. The horse did as it was instructed.

The owl descended to the ground. In a flash, the owl disappeared and in its place was a young man -perhaps not much older than the maiden- with wispy blonde hair and gentle blue eyes.

“You’re late.” the young man told the maiden- a small smirk etched on his lips.

“Don’t even start.” came the short response back. “And never have children, by the way. Gotta wait for those sneaky brats to sleep before you can sneak out.”

The young man smiled. “I’d like to think they take after you, Sabrina.”

“Shut up.”

He couldn’t help it, the young man let out a chuckle at her expense.

The maiden, Sabrina, made a disgusted face as she dismounted from her horse. She gave her beloved companions a few pats, and even an apple she had pulled from a side bag attached to the horse’s saddle.

“You treat that horse better than most men, you know.”

Sabrina looked to him, cocking an eyebrow.

“Jealous, Ventus?”

Ventus -who usually went by Ven in more informal settings- scrunched his nose.

“No way.” he denied.

Now it was Sabrina’s turn to give a bemused snort.

With their odd greetings exchanged, Ventus opened the gates for Sabrina and Nightmare to enter. He didn’t need to tell Sabrina were the stables were- she already knew. This wasn’t her first time inside the castle’s walls. Inside the castle itself was a different story.

“You don’t have to do this.” Ven said to Sabrina as the went through the castle’s foyer. He hadn’t quite meant to say it outloud. A part of him that he couldn’t name was nervous. This was a big moment- for him, for her, for their relationship as a whole…

“And yet, here I am.” came the rather dismissive answer. “Is she waiting in the parlor or the library?”

“Parlor.”

Sometimes Sabrina scared Ventus. Fearless and stubborn, it sometimes gave the impression that she simply didn’t care for her own wellbeing. Sabrina knew better than anyone who Ventus was tied to. This same person she wanted to meet in their own home for once. It felt far too personal. So few have been so close to these walls, let alone want to. And then there was Sabrina. She either really valued the time she was able to share with Ventus, or she secretly had a death wish. 

He hoped for the former- his conscience knew the latter had to be true too.Why else would she do this to herself?

Ventus opened the grand doors to the parlor and let Sabrina enter first. Waiting for them there, standing in the middle of the room with their silhouette highlighted by the roaring fire behind them, was the lady of the castle.

“You’re entering the den of a vampire, child.” the blue-haired beauty told Sabrina. “Once that door closes, there will be no turning back.”

“I see greetings used as thinly veiled warnings are absolutely normal here.” Sabrina smirked. “I’m aware of the risks, Aqua. Ventus and I have been talking about it for months through our letters.”

Ven’s face flushed a bright pink at being reminded of the letters. What had started as curiosity had become a regular routine. There were more than a few things Ven had confessed to in their letters together- ones that he had Aqua read over just to make sure he had her permission to say them. Today’s meeting was because of him, and as a joke no less. But now it was real. Now it was no longer a joke.

Aqua was going to drink from Sabrina’s blood in return for spending time with her familiar. A small trade for taking the vampire’s most valuable and beloved possession on excursions away from the safety of home. Not for long or too far away, of course, however a similar trade should still be employed. Nothing ever came for free.

Aqua gave a nod.

“Come,” she bid the young woman. By her own freewill, Sabrina came closer.

“Know that you are safe here, for what it’s worth.” Aqua then told Sabrina. “I promised Ven I would let you live. However, there is always a chance for instinct to take over. Do you accept this risk?”

“A small pain for having a friend, madam.”

Aqua smiled. For what it was worth, she liked Sabrina. Not completely, but enough.

“Ventus, prepare a damp cloth for cleanup.” the vampire then told her familiar.

“Yes ma’am.” Ven  agreed with a bow. He took one last glance at Sabrina, his eyes flicking with excitement, before leaving.

“He’ll be back shortly,” Aqua assured Sabrina. “For now, we can begin.”

“Alright,” Sabrina agreed with a nod. “Which arm do you prefer?”

“That is entirely your choice. I wouldn’t recommend your writing arm- the puncture will sting for quite awhile, so I’m told. Are you familiar with bloodletting? Particularly with leeches?”

“I’m familiar with leeches, but I’d never purposely have those things on me.”

Aqua gave her a nod. “I see. Well, for the times those leeches crept up on you, this will feel similar. It may even be done just as quickly.”

“I enjoy how simple you make this seem,” Sabrina smirked as she raised an arm.

“It can be.” Aqua mused with an equally impish smile. “Especially when the other party is more than willing to comply.”

With that, Aqua took a gentle hold of Sabrina’s arm. She could feel the traveler’s blood flow from underneath her fingers. A strong pulse- always a good sign. Aqua’s fangs bore on their own from instinct. Without any further warning, she bit into the soft skin of the traveler.

The initial bite sent a sting up Sabrina’s arm. She flinched at the pain by reaction- being kicked by a horse (which has happened multiple times in her life so far) felt a lot worse. The part that felt the weirdest was Aqua’s gentle sucking and precise tongue gliding over the puncture wound. Not a single drop of blood escaped Aqua’s mouth. In order to distract herself from what she assumed would take only a few moments, Sabrina likened the vampire’s drink to a cat. The concentration, the precise movements, even the not-quite-human texture of the tongue. It was the best she could think of.

Aqua drank in the blood slowly. Blood never tasted the same way twice in her experience. There was something in Sabrina’s blood. Something that stood out. However, Aqua couldn’t quite place it. It certainly wasn’t the blood of another occult- that tended to have a bit of bubbliness to it, like champagne. No.. Sabrina’s blood was… sweet? No, sour. No… Was it possible for the taste to change? Aqua started to drink a bit deeper, to further pin what made this blood so different.

Something was wrong. Sabrina was starting to feel lightheaded. She tried to take calm breaths in and out, figuring that Aqua would let up eventually. The vampire did not. It didn’t even look like she would let up.

“Aqua, I think that’s enough.” Sabrina said. “Some of that still belongs to me.”

Aqua didn’t even slow down.

“Aqua!” Sabrina snapped. “Aqua, stop!”

The young woman tried to pull her arm free, but Aqua’s grip was firm. If anything, she dug her nails in even deeper to keep Sabrina still. It wasn’t going to stop Sabrina. She pulled and tugged with every force she had. Everything was proving to be useless- from the elbow down, Sabrina’s arm might as well had been in rigor mortis. She had no control or agency over it.

And that was rather concerning, to say the least.

“Aqua! Aqua stop, that’s enough!” Sabrina continued to demand. Now she was attempting to use her other hand to force Aqua’s off. Just a bit of leverage, just a little bit of catching her off guard…

“Aqua! Aqua, I’ve lost too much. I’m so dizzy, I can’t stand up much longer. Stop. Stop!”

Panic was the worst thing Sabrina could do, yet it was the only option. Her heart pumping faster only allowed Aqua to drink deeper. That mysterious taste coming in even faster, and becoming even more mystical.

Ventus had no idea how close his timing was. He took one look at the scene and knew exactly what was happening.

“Aqua! Get off of her!” Ventus called out, dropping the wet cloth to get his master off of his friend.

He never needed to touch her. At the sound of her familiar’s voice, Aqua finally let go of the traveler’s arm. But it was too little too late. Sabrina’s sight had already grown dark, and the world cold. Her body hit the ground in a crumpled heap, no longer able to get back up.

-

You might as well had filled her body with steel. Ironic, considering the lack of iron actually in her body right now.

Her hearing came back first. Someone was near her, scratching some wooden surface and clinking chinaware every so often. The noise grated on her ears. Opening her eyes was more of an annoyance. She could have been lifting weights with the struggle it took. Her eyes recognized light first, then color, and then shapes.

So she was in someone’s bedroom, and it sure as hell was not hers. It was pretty spacious though. The canopy bed she was laying on was as soft as a cloud, while also boosting enough space to fit five other people comfortably. The color of the canopy curtains were faded from age, but constructed from a durable linen- just heavy enough to keep the cold out, while also being light enough to allow a regular airflow. Across the room was a fireplace. The fire inside was burning strong, but not enough to overwhelm the room with smoke. Sabrina lazily considered for a moment that she had fallen into a picture book she had been read as a child- one where the princess took a vow of silence to save her six brothers from being swans forever…

Sabrina lulled her head to the side. Her bedside had a washstand with a moderate space beside the basin for towels and such. It quickly became clear on what had been making the sounds from earlier.

“Scheisse.” she ended up slurring.

Ven, who had been preparing food on the washstand’s open space, didn’t even look over to her. There was a rather bemused grin on his face, however.

“Disappointed?” he playfully asked, pouring water from a pitcher into a tall stoneware cup.

“I’m not dead.” she snapped back- her tone making it hard to tell if she was truly annoyed at the fact, or relieved.

“Are you able to lift your arms yet?” Ven asked as he carefully brought the cup over to her.

Immediately, Sabrina tried to lift the arm Aqua had drank from. A sudden shock of pain coursed through her arm. The hurt escaped as a sharp gasp from the traveler. Ven also gave a flinch in sympathy. Making a disgusted face at herself, Sabrina then worked to raise her other arm. The effort nearly wore her out again- the little lift she had accomplished fell right back onto the bed like a stone.

Sabrina glared at Ven with as much venomosity she could muster.

“Even spiders have the decency to paralyze their victims.” she spat at him.

“You were the one who decided not to go under.” he reminded her.

“And I’d be dead if I had, now wouldn’t I?”

All Ven could do was offer a shrug and bring the cup closer to her lips. Sabrina leaned forward as far as she could, trying not to look desperate for something her body really needed right now. After making sure she had taken several sips, Ven brought the cup back down.

From there, the two were silent.

“Sabrina, I-“

“Don’t apologize for Aqua.”

“But what she did-“

“Is nothing you need to apologize for.” she sharply insisted. “My hands and feet feel like they’re dunked in a bucket of pins. My head is pounding so hard, it’s a double edged sword knowing my heart is still beating at all. You didn’t cause that. If the vampire was truly sorry she broke a promise, she’d be here and not her proxy.”

Ventus stood a bit taller.

“I asked to take care of you.” he informed her.

“Why?”

“Because I wanted to.”

“Because you felt guilty.”

Ventus recoiled, refusing to look at Sabrina. His grip on the cup had tightened. So much for asking for a bit of gratitude. Not that he had wanted her to die. He didn’t want that at all. She was safe now in one of the castle’s guest rooms. He brought her a pretty decent meal and plenty of water. Sure, the marks where Aqua had drank looked pretty bad right now, but with a bit of care and medicine, it would clear up in a day or two. Sabrina could return home in four day’s time and no one would suspect a thing.

“Ventus. I’m not mad at you.”

Ven looked up at Sabrina again. She looked so weak- so oddly child-like in vulnerability. His heart clenched the longer they kept eye contact. He diverted his eyes for a moment when he realized he might have been staring a bit too long.

“So… you know German?” he carefully asked. He even absently rubbed the back of his neck for a moment.

“Only the words that matter.” she claimed with a shrug.

“Any other languages you know?”

“Only with the words that matter.” she repeated with a cunning grin. “Wanna know what ‘figa’ means?”

“No thank you,” Ven decided, spinning on his heel to quickly go back to the washstand. Sabrina watched his hustle with an even broader grin. He was kinda cute in his hopeless naivety. Just a little.

“By the way,” Sabrina mused with a click of her tongue. “Are you going to feed me, or is the smell of chicken liver and baked bread just there for torture?”

“Oh! Right!” Ven remembered. “There’s also lentil soup and dandelion tea. What do you want to start with first?”

“Which one would be the least awkward for an invalid such as I?”

“Probably the bread.”

“To feed me like a baby bird?”

“Look, it’s your choice.”

“Fine, fine. Beggars can’t be choosers and all that. Baby bird me, vampire proxy. On the double.”

“Some attitude you have. Guess I'll just hold back on sharing that dark chocolate lava cake Aqua and I were going to have for dinner…”

“You wouldn’t dare!”

“Well if you’re going to be mean, you’re gonna have to face the consequences.”

“You’re terrible. Horrible. The worst human-like thing on the planet.”

Ven couldn't help but laugh.

[the-goth-catte]

BLACK MASS @ PANDEMONIO || 0 7 . 2 3 . 2 3

Dead Can Dance - Children of the Sun Fee Lion - Blood Sisters (Kontravoid Remix) GoodBooks - Leni (vs Crystal Castles) Grey Gallows - Dying Light (Actors Remix) Korine - Train to Harlem She Wants Revenge - What I Want Front 242 - Welcome to Paradise Incubite - Hell Instructor Bigod 20 - Like a Prayer Night Club - Cities in Dust Mechanical Moth - Black Queen Style Ayria - Headhunter Accessory - She Says It Feels Good And One - Metalhammer Front Line Assembly - Mindphaser Ministry - Effigy (I’m Not An) Switchblade Symphony - Dissolve Diary of Dreams - You (-das) Plastique Noir - Asleep in the Night Train Occults - Hot Crucible Christian Death vs Creux Lies - Spiritual Cramp Twin Tribes - Portal to the Void Drab Majesty - Ellipsis HEALTH - Feel Nothing Covenant - Bullet Haujobb - Speed of Pain NIN - Down In It Depeche Mode - Master & Servant Eurythmics - Sweet Dreams (Are Made of This) Gunship & Kat Von D - Black Blood Red Kiss Sisters of Mercy - First and Last and Always Rosetta Stone - Nothing IKON - She’s In Parties Necessary Response - Spilling Blood Frozen Plasma - Warmongers Covenant - Der Leiermann Gossamer - Run (Wayne Hussey Mix) Leathers - Missing Scene Ulver - Machine Guns and Peacock Feathers Oscillian - Activate HEALTH - Cyberpunk 2.0.2.0 Accessory - Elektrik Project Pitchfork - Acid Ocean Night Club - Vampires Corlyx - My Body Is Wrong Rein - Dystopia Trevor Something - Enjoy the Silence Hante. - Light//Lies Male Tears - Hit Me Drab Majesty - Dot in the Sky Pixel Grip - ALPHAPUSSY Sad January - Until the End of the World Perturbator ft. Greta Link - Venger Apoptygma Berzerk - Kathy’s Song (Victoria Mix by VNV Nation) Qntal - Veni (Filthy Floor Mix) In Strict Confidence - Promised Land (Club Mix) The Cruxshadows - Helios (Solar Night Mix) Pixel Grip - Club Mania Ministry - Jesus Built My Hotrod Alien Sex Fiend - Ignore the Machine The Chameleons - Second Skin Joy Division - A Means to an End Love Like Blood - Lucretia, My Reflection The Cure - One Hundred Years Black Angel - Serene Only Fire - Double Penetration

[teecupangel]

From @zero-saito

This sounds awesome! Also, poor Desmond got bathed in the vampire glitter. It would be really funny if the ancestor gets caught and then immediately thrown into a dungeon, but he’s mostly been taken care of by the various servants under Desmond. And the ancestor is waiting to be tortured for information, but it keeps not happening other than him being kind of locked up. But the being locked up part is mostly, so Desmond can’t get to him. lol

From @thedragonqueen1998

Yes, Desmond is a human disco ball and is so happy no one in this time knows what it, so they can't ask to see his "disco balls". XD I'm biased towards Ezio and him being a former noble really adds to the more dracula themeing. ^^ Just Desmond hosts a ball and Ezio joins it and dances with Desmond. Ezio sees he has no reflection when he dips Desmond and Desmond is desperate to not tear out Ezio's throat.

From @zero-saito

@thedragonqueen1998 Desmond trying really hard to at anything but ezio and trying to make sure the collars are up as high as possible. Local fashion all have high collars to try and help. Ezio thinks Desmond is being very shy and maybe there is some POE bs going on that has cursed this man.

From @thedragonqueen1998

@zero-saito oo, yes!

From @zero-saito

But also!! What would Desmond’s bs vampire power be? On top of the usual ones, twilight vamps have an extra.

Let’s be honest. The ancestor would be put on a very wonderful well kept room as a ‘prisoner’ but he can escape any time he wants. The problem is every route to Desmond is locked instead. All the castle servants are polite to him. Desmond’s three ‘sisters’ like getting close and personal to him but he could sense they’re not attracted to him. They’re fishing for information but ‘what do you eat’ and ‘which part of your body is most sensitive’ are not exactly the kind of questions that would give information that can be dangerous to the Brotherhood.

The truth is Desmond wants him to leave and expected him to leave when he ‘imprisoned’ him. The servants are the ones trying to keep him from leaving because it was clear that Desmond was ‘attracted’ to his blood.

As for vampire powers… Desmond would lie and say it’s lie detection but his enhanced hearing just make it easier for him to hear any changes in his target’s heartbeat. The truth is… he’s sure his vampire powers is more akin to the power of suggestions that an Apple has. He hasn’t experimented on it but it only works on humans. He would probably guess it later on but his power of suggestions are actually directly linked to how much Isu genes a human has. The more Isu genes they have (ex: his ancestor), the less likely it would be for him to control them. If he can master his powers enough, his power of suggestion would turn into the power to command humans.

And that scares Desmond most of all…

Desmond as one of the sparkle-pires from 'Twilight'.

Desmond wakes up in a cave, thirsty and rock hard. Literally, his skin is diamond solid and when he walks out into the sun he glitters...

So obviously he waltzes into an old rundown town, realises he's time traveled, accidentally seduces three wenches, two widows, a beggar and a cat. Walks right back out because half the people in that town smelt DELICIOUS and the other half had STDs and wanted to share.

It's hard going anywhere during the day when you're in a constant state of bedazzlement...

Obviously Desmond becomes a little despondent when he realizes the only thing he can ingest is blood, he can't stand to be in the company of humans without going feral and 'again' he glitters.

Well at least he doesn't have the ability to change other assassin's into sparkly vampiric creatures.

Cause that would be terrible.

It’s me so I’m going to add more problem to Desmond by making the blood of his ancestor smells divine. It’s much harder to keep himself ‘human’ when they’re near so he deliberately stays away, takes over a small piece of land with a trash lord no one would miss. He takes care of the people in his land, gives jobs to the three wenches, two widows and one beggar that followed him, made them promise never to call him ‘god’ ever again. Simply because he sparkles doesn’t mean he’s a divine being.

This sort of thing reeks of Isu bullshit but he can’t even research freely because of his ‘conditions’.

He’s reminded of the Twilight movie he watched back in New York when he had been so bored on a day off that he didn’t even want to have (his boss insisted after he went without any day off for a while, switching with other people just to get more money for that motorcycle he was eyeing).

Of all the possible truths hidden in this world by the Templars, sparkling vampires were not even in his list of ‘possible conspiracy theories that Shaun would say could be true’.

Did it mean then that the author of Twilight had Templar connections???

Was a Templar herself?

Or worse…

Had some kind of Isu-related device or item???

Desmond would just have to make do with what he has right now.

The three wenches wanted to offer their blood to him. A rotating shift of some sort to make sure none of them would feel any severe side effect. The beggar turned out to be a doctor who lost everything after a battle between the armies of two men with too much power and money and little care for the life of those ‘beneath’ them incinerated his village and left him without a money to his name. Desmond made him the castle’s physician and he took that to mean that he could assist the wenches (ladies of the castle, there are rumors of them either being Desmond’s ‘mistresses’ or sisters) in trying to make Desmond understand that they wish only to help. The two widows stay away from all of these, taking care of the orphans in the orphanage Desmond created when he became a lord.

The cat, of course, did what cat did.

Realized they are the true master of the castle and demanded to be treated as such.

It was a peaceful life, all things considered.

Desmond could survive on animal blood. It takes bland and Desmond is reminded by the idea of eating cardboard every month when he drinks from an animal he had hunted himself before bringing back to the castle so the cook may use it for dinner.

Human food taste like nothing but he can swallow it, pretend to be normal while eating with his court.

His ‘sisters’ and the court physician.

The townspeople under his rule see him as benevolent and understanding.

They also believe that he suffers from an ailment that leaves him weak under the sun’s light.

Some joke that he is a demon but the pain and suffering they went through with the previous lord made them loyal to Lord Desmond.

If he turns out to be a demon, then they will become devil worshipers. The Church turned a blind eye on the previous lord because of the ‘donations’ he had given, after all.

The Church doesn’t like him though but they ignore him, his land being of no political or strategic value to them.

Then…

A hooded man appeared in the castle, hiding in the shadows to observe the strange lord who held no power to change the political strife plaguing across the land but having rumored to be strange.

Maybe strange enough to be hiding something of grave importance…

The Assassin believed that he had hid well, that they would not be seen.

But then…

The lord’s head immediately turned to his direction.

And his light brown eyes glowed gold with surprise, dread and…

… hunger.

.

(Desmond has been trying to find info about why he’s sparkling and if vampires are ‘real’ or if he’s an anomaly. This, in turn, gets the Brotherhood’s attention. Who the Assassin is is up to you guys. The main point is he has to be an ancestor of Desmond. It would be easy to make it Altaïr or Ezio but Ratonhnhaké:ton is also an option and he traveled somewhere where religion still has a high hold on politicians. Hell, it can be Edward or even Giovanni, tbf XD)

[descendantofthesparrow]

Once Upon a December - The Invitation - Walter x Reader - P13

outfit

Witch of Carfax castle/Lady Deville

=

Hahaha, this is about you

Beware, beware, be skeptical Of their smiles, their smiles of plated gold Deceit so natural But a wolf in sheep's clothing is more than a warning -

You stared at yourself in the mirror, hands in your pockets as Harrison paced behind you, adjusting his cufflinks every few moments as he muttered to himself. You took one last glance at your outfit, smirking at the elegant pattern that covered the jacket you had stolen from Harrison to really give that-witch of Carfax Castle vibe.

“Darling” you cooed, stopping him in his tracks as he turned to you, his brows furrowed in immense worry. He was scared. Not for himself, but for you-what if Viktoria got a hit in, and you got hurt? What if you were taken from him again? “I’ll be okay, we have a plan; it ends tonight, with us.”

Harrison slowly nodded, taking your outstretched hands and bringing them to his lips, lingering on your ring “As soon as I can” Harrison muttered into your skin, his ocean-blue eyes staring into yours “I’m going to marry you again, I want everyone to know you are my wife, in this life and the last.”

You felt your face flush, shaking your head as you chuckled, “Sap,” you muttered, stepping closer to him and bumping your forehead into his “you would really go through all that trouble, just for us to be legally married in this century?” Harrison smirked, his fangs out and ready.

“I would go through brimstone and fire; just to yell to the world that I’m your boyfriend, let alone your husband.” you snorted at his words, shaking your head, kissing him softly and shortly; rolling your eyes as you pulled away “And they say girls are the sentimental ones of a relationship” you teased, giggling as Harrison rolled his eyes, grabbing your cheeks and pecking your nose. “Okay okay, now go, you have an act to sell.”

Harrison groaned, not super happy to be ‘Walter’ again; having to act as if you didn’t exist and he was an emotionless monster. But he nodded, pecking your lips once more and walking out of the room.

You took a deep breath, turning to the mirror once more.

You could do this; you were going to do this.

-

She was actually doing this-she was actually going to go through with this. Yeah-there was a plan, Harrison knew she was going to say ‘I don’t’, and you were going to take care of Viktoria the moment shit started going down.

But still-the entire idea was terrifying! What if someone caught you before you could come to the rescue? what if Harrison was tricking the both of you? What if you were in on it?

The last one was just a panicked idea, and she knew you wouldn’t hurt her like that. But still-she had been shoved into a goddamn horror movie, so please forgive her mind for spiraling.

Evie swallowed harshly as a gold tiara was set into her hair, her fists clenched at her sides as several maids finished getting her ready. “There you go ma’am” one maid whispered, resting the veil over Evie’s face. “Five minutes,” another maid said, opening the door to the Alexander suite, Great uncle Alfred stepping through.

“You look wonderful my dear,” he said with a smile, but it only made Evie shiver in disgust. How could this man, her great uncle-just so easily hand her over to a vampire? Easy, he was a privileged white man. Evie kept her eyes on the floor as Alfred took her arm, slowly leading her out of the suite and down towards the chapel.

Evie glanced down the hallway towards the master-suites; yours and Harrison’s rooms. She blinked at the small flash of red within the darkness, a hand suddenly resting on her back. Evie subtly pressed back into it, feeling much better knowing you had her back; figuratively and literally.

Your hand stayed on her back as she and Alfred descended the stairs and went into the servant's tunnels that linked into the hidden chapel; Evie’s shoulders tensed and her breathing picked up as the dark room surrounded her, her vision impaired by the veil on her face. Your hand moved from her back to her shoulder “You’re not alone Eve, I’m right behind you” you whispered, so quietly Evie wasn’t sure you even talked.

As the attending crowd stood, and the very creepy music played, your hand left her-leaving her alone. But she knew you would be there, making sure she got home safe, and Harrison would too. She would be okay, she just had to sell the act.

Which wasn’t hard, her breath was nearly panicked, cheeks warm and painted with tears. Evie spotted the old couple that had ended up sending her right back into this hell hole, her cousin, the man who had basically invited her to her doom; standing behind them.

Evie wondered for a moment; if she could ask Harrison to take care of him, as an apology. He probably would. Evie heard Viktoria tell Lucy to stop smiling, and Evie swallowed harshly, Lucy had helped Harrison free you, and helped her escape-she hoped Lucy wouldn’t be hurt in what was to come.

Evie was thrown back into reality as she and Alfred came to a stop in front of the alter, Alfred tossed up her veil and planted a gross kiss on her cheek; attempting to make it seem like it was a normal wedding. But this was far from a normal wedding, she didn’t love the groom one bit, and the woman he loved was at the back; cloaked by the darkness of the chapel.

‘keep it together, you’ll be home free soon, you got this’ Evie told herself, kneeling next to Harrison, who sneakily reached out and squeezed her hand. She squeezed back. ‘you got this’

“We are gathered here this evening,” Evie finally noticed the large black-cloaked man that stood before her and Harrison, swallowing harshly as he continued to speak in a dark-low tone. This was some-fucking culty ass shit. If she was terrified now, she couldn’t imagine how she would feel if you didn’t exist and Harrison was still planning on turning her and forcing her to marry him. “To sanctify the union, between our benevolent master, and his new bride; from the Alexander bloodline.”

Evie knew she would be back in New York in only a few days, she knew about the plan, and she knew you wouldn’t let anything happen to her. But gods the panic that set in at those words, she reached up, clutching her necklace as a new flood of tears streamed down her cheeks. She could see Diya chained off to the side, marked to be Evie’s first meal as a vampire; she looked terrified. Harrison glanced at her, licking his lips almost nervously before looking back at the officiant/cult member. “Long may they flourish”

“May the bridesmaidens, rejoice,” the crowd said behind Evie, all speaking in unison. Evie swallowed, she hated this, all of it. “Master,” the man in black said, turning to Harrison “Do you take this woman to be your bride?” Harrison glanced at Evie, then subtly behind him; seeing a small red flare within the darkness. He looked back at the officiant. “I do” he said calmly, easily keeping his act of Walter up as he heard Viktoria take a sharp breath; she didn’t approve of Evie, but she didn’t approve of not being at full power even more.

Too bad her little power trip would be ended in a few minutes. Harrison smirked at the thought. “And do you,” the officiant turned to Evie, who was practically zoning out; her body practically shaking at the fear that was gripping her heart “Evelyn Alexander, take the master to love, honor, serve and obey, for all the days of your eternal life?”

Evie took a shaking breath, seeing Harrison look at her through the corner of her eye, she could feel your presence at the back of the chapel. You were there, Harrison wouldn’t hurt her; Viktoria wouldn’t get the chance.

She could do this.

She could do this.

“No.” Evie muttered, but everything was quiet enough to where it echoed through the dark chapel. Everyone gasped, and she could easily imagine Oliver’s eyes widening in fear as Viktoria got to her feet. “No?” Viktoria hissed, her eyes blazing and her fangs barred, Harrison kept his eyes on Evie; trying to tell her he wouldn’t let her get hurt-while also trying to keep up his act.

Everyone was silent, knowing not to speak when the (2nd) oldest bride of Deville was speaking “No?” Viktoria said again, as if she couldn’t believe Evie would throw away the ‘gift’ of eternal life. “How-selfish of you. Just like your great grandmother; a filthy nig-“ she didn’t get the chance to finish that sentence, a red gleam appearing from the darkness with the coldness of your voice.

“Watch your mouth” you hissed, blasting the woman back into the alter, sending the banners crashing to the floor as the crowd gasped in fear; many frozen in shock as you appeared out of the darkness, your body glowing with the red marks of your magic. “It’s the twenty-first century Viktoria, get with the times. That language ain’t in style anymore” you said calmly, standing in the middle of the aisle as Viktoria stumbled out of the rubble that was once the altar-the officiant standing off to the side.

“What is the meaning of this?” Oliver asked, getting to his feet, squeaking as you and Harrison met him with glowing red eyes. “I’ll take care of you later, rat” you muttered, making him shut up and sit down; very much realizing he was in deep shit for tricking Evie, the other families, and the guests-realized this as well.

They were fucked.

Viktoria hissed, glaring at Lucy as she started to stand-her eyes wide. “Sit back down” Lucy just stared at her, blinking; gasping as Viktoria suddenly appeared in front of you, using her inhuman speed to slash at your cheek. You yelped in pain, Harrison quickly getting to his feet and grabbing Viktoria’s arm, practically growling as he threw her back and into the alter stairs; Evie quickly got to her feet and rushed over to Diya, she did not need to be in the middle of all that. “Get the fuck away from my wife you bitch” he hissed, standing in front of you protectively, the wedding crowd began to stand and get out of the chapel; they didn’t want to be thrown in the middle of this fight.

But they were all confused about ‘Walter’s’ words.

Wife?

“Wife?” Viktoria hissed, a look of near betrayal on her face. Her fangs and claws were fully out, her eyes flaring with rage “WIFE?!” Harrison just bared his fangs right back “Yes. Wife. We’ve been married since my first year as a vampire. And I’ll be damned if I let you hurt her.” Viktoria and Harrison held a small staring contest as everyone ran out of the chapel, Lucy standing to the side-unsure of what to do; Evie was trying to free Diya.

“Oh no you don’t” Viktoria hissed as she noticed Evie, turning and reaching towards her, Diya about to scream when a red mist-like magic curled around Viktoria’s wrist, once again throwing her back into the wall. “Get Evie out of here,” you told Harrison, stepping in front of him, keeping your eyes on Viktoria; who stumbled to her feet-this being her third time being thrown into something. “I’ll handle the bitch”

Harrison looked concerned, but he knew you could handle her. So he kissed the back of your head, telling you to be careful; he rushed over to Evie and broke Diya’s chains, leading them out of the chapel. “Lucy!” Evie yelled, the youngest bride snapping back to reality and about to follow-stopping when Viktoria hissed “You fall back in line” she spat out-glaring Lucy down.

Lucy just stared, then took a step, then another. Then she ran, picking up her skirt and leaving. Viktoria screamed, enraged; all of her control was slipping through her fingers. All because of “you” she snarled, her eyes nearly black as she clenched her hand, you mirrored her movement, your magic curling in your palm; the marks on your body pulsing with a red glow. “Me” you teased, smirking.

You caught her first swing, holding her firm with your magic as she screamed. You dodged the second, releasing her other arm as she whirled around and kept trying to slash at your throat with her claws. You were silent as she screamed and growled with each swing, insults pouring from her lips like water “insolent-little witch-home wrecker-peasant-You just had to come in-and ruin-EVERYTHING!“

You caught her arms, holding her there as she panted heavily, glaring right into your eyes. You smirked “You did it first, bitch.” was all you said before you muttered the incantation under your breath. “Necronom Hezberek Mortix” you could feel the power, gifted to her by Harrison-to which was gifted from you-draining from her, flowing back into you from your grip on her wrists. She gasped in pain, her body shaking as she felt her strength leave her.

“No-No!” she screeched, planting her foot on your chest and pushing you back; holding her hands to her chest as you released her and hit the floor. you coughed a bit, shaking your head as you sat up. “How-how in the hell-“ Viktoria whispered to herself, looking down at her shortened nails, they were still sharp and black-but she could see they weren’t as long, no longer claws. Her fangs were nearly gone as well. Just her canines now.

“How-“ she whispered again, glaring as you got to your feet, smirking at her “I gave Harrison his powers,” you said with a knowing smirk, dusting off your knees and tilting your head to the side “You really thought I couldn’t take them back?” The fear that went through her entire face was all too delicious. “Now that you have something to lose, why don’t you fight me for real; that was a cute warm up but” you cracked your neck, your eyes flashing red.

“I’m hungry for a real fight. Now give me your best shot.”

She just stared at you for a moment, then bared what was left of her fangs, snarling as she ran at you-she wasn’t as fast as she was before-but she was still faster than a human, once again swinging at you with her claws. Like before, you dodged and weaved between the swings, catching a few and redirecting her attacks. Soon enough she had backed you out of the chapel and into the servant's pathways; you knew you couldn’t fight in such an enclosed space-so you rushed for the main hallway-yelping as she slashed into your back just as you reached it.

You hit the floor, turning over to avoid her downward swings, glaring up at you as she snarled and huffed like a wild animal; fighting for its survival. Which she was, you had the power to take her down too easily, she wasn’t losing it all to some-girl-from Harrison’s past.

You caught a swing aimed at your face, and pushed it to the floor, your leg pulsing with red energy as you kicked her back. She hit one of the pillars with a crash, the stone crumbling behind her weight. “Fuck” she crushed, shaking her head as she got to her feet, she wasn’t as durable as she used to be; all thanks to that draining spell.

“That all you got?” you chuckled, getting to your feet and holding your hands out, red energy gathering in your palms. She screamed, leaping at you, slamming her fists into the shield you had created, you let out a huff, feeling the strain of using your magic so much in such a little time after-practically never using it.

Her foot found your stomach, sending you to the floor. you groaned, rolling quickly to avoid her heel and getting up as quickly as you could, blocking another one of her swings as she screamed out “I’LL KILL YOU!”

“You kill me, you kill yourself!” you yelled back, blocking her hard swing with your forearm as she aimed for your head. She wouldn’t listen, completely fueled by rage and hate. You called up shields and redirected her attacks, breathing heavily as you felt that strain increase; this was going on for far too long. You needed help, you needed Harrison-besides, he deserved to get his hits in, considering Viktoria hadn't just hurt you, she had hurt him through you.

Just as that thought ran through your mind, Viktoria was struck in the face and thrown to the floor; Harrison standing above her, fangs bared and snarling, before he quickly ran to your side. He curled his arms around you; furrowing his brows at your near-exhausted state. “love?” he whispered, tensing as Viktoria hissed as she slowly got to her feet.

“Do you trust me?” you asked, looking into his eyes; glancing at the dragon statue at the bottom of the stairs, just to your left. He followed your gaze, then back at Viktoria; nodding. “Always”

“Cute” Viktoria grumbled, blood running from her nose, Harrison had broken it. “I can't wait to see the look on your face when I rip her heart out.” Harrison just smirked, curling his arms further around you, as you whispered something into his ear; almost as if it was a secret between star-crossed lovers.

“What are you two…doing” Viktoria’s words faded out as a black smoke surrounded Harrison, his eyes glowing brightly as you both disappeared within the swirling smoke. She stumbled back as it grew in size, doubling-tripling-until the ceiling crumbled; screams of terror and panic echoed from just outside the manor-the families and guests running for their lives as the walls of the manor crumbled at the force of a set of-gigantic-black wings spread; black-scaled claws hitting the marble floor-cracking it with its weight and power.

“He’s-no-that’s not” Viktoria whispered, completely enveloped by fear as the dust began to clear-two large, glowing, blue and sharpened eyes staring back down at her, a figure sitting on the arch of its spiked neck.

“HE CAN TURN INTO A FUCKING DRAGON?!” Evie screamed from outside, her and Diya holding each other as Lucy stared. Harrison had turned into a dragon, the form he rarely took-a form he only took to protect you.

The son of the dragon.

The protector of the witch of Carfax Castle.

Harrison let out a low grumble from his chest, smoke spilling from his fang-lined mouth; his eyes tracking Viktoria as she began to head for the manor doors-stopping as she saw they were completely blocked “please-mercy” she whimpered, feeling pure fear-something she hadn’t felt since she was human. She looked into your eyes, searching for something-anything-that would allow her to live.

You stared back, feeling every bit of your usual kindness…missing. “No,” you said, voice echoing across the grounds as everything went silent, Harrison waited on your words with a satisfied purr. “…Dracarys”

With that one word, Harrison released a torrent of fire directly at Viktoria, her screams echoing through the night as she was burnt to a crisp. By the time Harrison pulled off at the gentle pat of your hand, Viktoria was nothing but ashes, and fire began to spread through the manor.

You waved your hand, summoning everyone's stuff to sit in the unharmed gardens; not wanting anything important to burn. Harrison huffed, glad to leave this part of his life behind as he gave one heavy flap of his dark wings. He took to the air and landed gently next to the garden, turning to black smoke as he hit the soft grass, his arms protectively wrapped around you as he returned to human form; the two of you staring at the burning mansion.

“That was the scariest, and coolest thing I’ve ever seen!” Evie yelled as she ran up to the both of you, Diya staying back as Lucy ran after Evie, her eyes wide with a new sense of freedom. You chuckled, Harrison releasing your shoulders as Evie slammed into you, squeezing you tightly. “Is it over?” Evie asked, and you nodded, hugging her back and pushing your cheek into her head.

“yeah, it’s over” you muttered, looking at the burning manor, everything within being swallowed by the flames. “so,” Lucy said quietly, sliding off her gold ring and letting it drop to the grass, intertwining her fingers afterward-unsure of what to do with her hands “what now?”

You blinked, turning to Harrison, who just gave you a tired smile “I’ll follow you anywhere my love” he whispered, and you smiled back. You knew exactly what you were going to do now.

-end of part 13-

Well-this is the 2nd draft of p13, the first version was about-five pages shorter and paced horribly, so hopefully, this version was much better for not only my eyes, but for yalls eyes-and I hope yall liked p13!!! I think the next part is gonna be the epilogue, which probably won’t be short at all lolololol

See yall next time~!

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