Finally, the third chapter is here! Sadly I have had some computer problems which will soon be fixed hopefully, and also lost all inspiration for my XemSai fic... on the other hand I am having too many ideas for this fic. I can only say it will be long. Very long. I am trying not to make the storry seem so hurried, as I know I have a tendency to do. I have run out of what I wrote before posting the first part, and the last 1000 words or so are fresh. Hopefully from there on it will be a bit more collected.
Thanks to everyone who reviewed! I can't say how happy it makes me to see that there are people on this page able to give such wonderful feedback! Keep it up, and I will do all I can to make this fic perfect. It's special to me, and I need proper concrit (constructive critisism) to make it unforgettable.
Much thanks to my lovely beta, Zexion. If you find any typos it's his fault. -shot-
Marluxia still couldn't help but worry about Vexen as he went to bed that night. What if Vexen merely pretended not to be angry with him any longer? Why were there no words of affection from him today?
Marluxia lay awake thinking for a long while, but eventually fell into a light slumber, troubled in his sleep by thoughts of Vexen. It didn't last long however as he woke up by the rustling of sheets around him.
"Are you a light-sleeper, my love?"
Once again those intense, frosty green eyes greeted him.
"V-Vexen! What are you doing?" Marluxia asked, realizing he couldn't move his arms.
"I was merely curious whether your shoelaces could hold you tied down for long," Vexen sniggered, tugging lightly at the leather band around the other's wrists that locked his arms to the headboard. Marluxia gave a sigh, though an amused smile appeared on his face.
"Shoelaces… How intriguing…"
"Not nearly as intriguing as what I am planning on doing with you."
Marluxia wriggled somewhat, trying to hide his discomfort.
"Will it hurt as much as last time?" he asked quietly.
"That depends," Vexen murmured, tracing a fingertip over the younger one's collarbone. "Whether I decide to be gentle or not."
"Vexen!!"
A confident smirk spread across said one's face as he pulled the covers away and began unbuttoning Marluxia's nightshirt. His smile faltered somewhat as he revealed the red marks his fangs had left on Marluxia's chest and stomach under their last encounter. Marluxia squirmed again, now in impatience. Vexen returned to his shirt, opening the last buttons and pulling it up over his head so it rested at his wrists as an additional restraint. Hungry eyes roamed Marluxia's features once again. Marluxia felt himself hardening under his gaze. Sharp fingernails slid ghostly over his chest, bidding Marluxia to arch up for Vexen's touch. It was pure torture.
"Stop teasing!!"
"Now what have I told you about patience?" Vexen lectured.
"Gh… please… more…"
That devilish smirk flashed over his face again before Vexen's lips closed around a nipple, licking, sucking, biting and piercing through the sensitive flesh with his fangs having Marluxia scream in pain and then moan in delight as the tongue returned, carefully and soothingly over the wounded skin. Marluxia realized that tonight would probably be much worse as Vexen hungrily took in every little drop of blood. His eyes widened in horror as he noticed that the other's nails were razor-sharp. Those were supposed to go inside him?? He was close to fainting by the mere thought.
"No worries, my love. We will of course do something about that," Vexen murmured, his eyes flashing red. This didn't exactly calm him. Vexen leaned over him, one arm snaking under Marluxia's neck, the other taking a firm grip around his left elbow. A groan left Marluxia's lips, and Vexen's weight against his own was far from the problem. It was those lethal fangs gracing his biceps.
Pain.
Two needle-like canines boring into his upper arm held no other description. A loud moan escaped his already sore throat as Vexen began draining him. He felt every drop that was taken from him, he felt the other's body pulsate stronger against his own and he could see every vein in Vexen's being as he fed. Colour returned to his skin, his claws shrinking and dulling, thank goodness. Panic was the only sensation. Marluxia writhed, bucking at the pain and discomfort, feeling the fangs press deeper into him as Vexen's lust for blood was about to go out of control and there was nothing he could do.
And then it stopped. Vexen pulled away.
He couldn't have taken too much, just enough to replenish himself, as Marluxia weren't even feeling dizzy, only a bit nauseous because of the pain.
"You have filled me," Vexen said, his voice much smoother now. "And now it is your time to be filled."
Marluxia arched up and tugged at the restraints, his whole being screaming for the other's touch, and still shaking from the bite..
"Hng… Vexen…"
Said one trailed a finger teasingly over his chest, one fingernail scraping ghostly at the soft skin leaving a red line, seeing it was still extraordinarily sharp for what was human.
Another yank at the restraints. Vexen merely leered at him.
"I know what you want," he murmured. "But I still want to hear you beg."
Marluxia glared at him before realizing the other was too good with knots for him to object.
"Vexen… please… your shirt," he pleaded.
"This?" Vexen asked, pulling lightly at his collar, a conniving smirk on his lips. Suddenly he yelped as Marluxia locked his legs around him, forcing him down flat against his chest.
"You simply do not take no for an answer, do you?" he whispered, obviously amused. A tearing noise sounded through the room as he pushed himself back to a sitting position, half of his shirt left between Marluxia's teeth.
"Oh, you crafty little beast," Vexen chuckled, discarding what was left of the linen fabric on the floor. "I think tying you up was a good idea after all."
"V-Vexen!" Marluxia cried impatiently. That wonderful, hot mouth returned to his chest, licking, nipping and teasing, down his stomach, sucking at his left hipbone and down, finding the sensitive flesh of his thighs before five fingers followed the same route, kneading, clawing, ripping and having small streams of blood seep down his torso which were arching up as he panted and gasped. He felt the fingers prodding at his entrance, one entering, pushing in, in, in, too sharp, pain, pain, yes, yes, yes. Marluxia screamed out loudly as the second joined in, too sharp yet so goddamn delightful!! He howled in agony as he felt those fangs penetrate his skin again, at the inside of his thigh, digging in and sucking, draining, feeding on his life, that horrific pulse running through Vexen once again, a third finger entering him, though completely dull now, the blood having it slide in easily, all three fingers jabbing up against his prostate, multicoloured lights exploding in front of his vision, and too much of everything, yes, yes, yes!! The difference between pleasure and pain was far-gone, impossible to tell which one he felt. He had almost forgotten the fangs buried in his flesh before Vexen removed both them and the fingers. He was… dizzy, to say the least, panting heavily.
Pure ecstasy hit Marluxia that night as he for the second time felt Vexen thrust into him, completing him, more bestial and ravenous than he ever could have imagined a monster even in his worst nightmares. But this was different. This was love… their love with nothing to compare it to. Vexen was his monster, completing him, fulfilling him, filling him with his seed.
X
"Marluxia, I want you to follow me," Vexen said with a secretive smile when the younger had finished his breakfast.
"Oh? What is it?"
"It is a surprise, come."
Vexen seized his hand and pulled him up from his seat, leading him out of the dinning hall with a quick pace, down the many stairs until they reached the ground floor. Through a small door and down a narrow corridor, halting outside another door, heavier than the first but just as small.
"Close your eyes," Vexen bid.
"What is going on, Vexen?"
Marluxia looked at him with a suspicious glance.
"It is a surprise I told you!"
"…Okay…"
Marluxia did as he was told and heard the sound of a key in a lock, thereafter the squeaking of a door swinging open on rusty latches. A light tug at his wrist had him follow through. Judging by the red light displayed inside his eyelids he was probably in a very brightly lit room, a change from the rest of the castle. Then again, the floor seemed a bit strange, almost like earth.
"Open them," he heard Vexen's voice say. So he did.
What greeted him was the largest greenhouse he had ever seen, bathed in the golden rays of the morning sun. He was sure his eyes were shining just as bright as he took in his surroundings. Three-meter high walls of glass, most of it covered up by climbing plants. Other than those, the greenhouse was fairly empty, though there were patches of moist soil. The air was damp and thick, more like in the spring than any winter he had ever experienced, a great contrast to the snow-covered ground outside. The room spelled nothing but opportunities.
"Do you like it?" Vexen asked. Marluxia could nothing but nod, his voice completely lost.
"Good. I hoped you would, for I am giving it to you."
"Y-you really mean that?"
"Of course. The room has been empty for so long. It is a fine place to start now that you do not have the pharmacy. I suppose it could have been taken better care of but- ow…"
A half choked sound escaped him as Marluxia tackled him, hugging him.
"Vexen, this is more than I could ever dream of!! Thank you, thank you!!"
"Now, I need you to do one thing in return," Vexen said, petting the Marluxia's hair.
"Oh…?"
"I want you to practice your English," he said. Marluxia gave him a confused look.
"Well, I'm talking English with you every day even though I don't see any reason to…"
"I want you to read and improve yourself. It will be most useful when we return to London."
"W-we're still going??" Marluxia asked, not quite believing the other.
"I rarely stay more than two years in one place. It would wake suspicion if people were to notice I do not age."
"Will we go to other countries too…?"
"Well, I have travelled great parts of the world… I doubt I would stop just yet. I am sorry to uproot you from your homeland."
There was a long silence. Marluxia rested his cheek against Vexen's chest. The older smelled of blood and fresh grave soil.
"I will let you decide where we go after England," Vexen said. "It is the least I can do in return."
"Thanks, Vexen…"
X
Marluxia sat alone in his bedroom, at loss of what to do. Vexen had been gone for two days, the only explanation had been a note left for him at the breakfast table:
'I have business outside town that I need to attend to. I trust you to manage well on your own during my absence. Do not expect me home for some time.
Yours truly, Vexen.'
Marluxia clutched the note in his hand. How long did he mean by 'some time'? For one who had lived for two hundred years, two days was probably very little… At least he had Claudia to keep him company. Then again, the thought of what Vexen had planned for the poor servant girl made him uneasy any time he saw her. The world truly was… cruel…
He had spent most of the first day in the greenhouse and the evening in the library. He had not been too concerned. Vexen was a vampire; he could take care of himself. He had been a bit uneasy when he didn't turn up around supper though, seeing that was what he usually did. Now it was about two hours after supper the second day, and Marluxia was downright worried. Apprehension was one of his least favourite feelings and he couldn't help being a bit annoyed too, seeing Vexen hadn't told him where he was going.
He decided he would take a walk down in the greenhouse again to see whether he could get his mind on something else, and clear his thoughts. It didn't help worrying…
It was when walking down a narrow corridor at the ground level that he heard the sound of a heavy door creek open on worn latches. He peeked around a corner and found himself in the entrance hall, and he could hear voices. Seconds later Vexen entered, his long black coat covered in sleet. It was snowing pretty heavy outside. Marluxia grinned, relieved at the sight of the other and was about to run over to him as he noticed that there was someone accompanying Vexen.
A young woman with black hair and expensive looking clothes. And Vexen smiled at her, warm and affectionate as he helped her off with her coat before he discarded his own.
"What a terrible weather," the woman said, giving Vexen an equal smile. The two seemed oblivious to Marluxia who was hiding in the other end of the hall, frozen in place.
"Not at all, my love," Vexen murmured. "Would you ever dared to stay at such a place if you did not have to?"
"You don't suppose I am afraid of ghosts?" she inquired with a slight laugh.
"I truly hope not," Vexen replied with a smirk. "You know how I enjoy your company more than anything."
Marluxia felt his left eye give a violent twitch as his Vexen gently moved one hand to her waist, another caressing her cheek having her blush. There was something too seductive in those green eyes for what was good. Marluxia clenched his fists. How could Vexen look at someone else like that? He could almost hear his heart scream in pain as the older advanced on her, claiming her lips more tenderly than he had ever handled Marluxia.
How could he…? How could he?
Marluxia felt tears trailing down his cheeks. Now that he finally had confessed his feeling, Vexen had found someone else…
A muffled scream had him look back up at them. Blood seeped out from between their lips, and no matter how much she struggled Vexen would not let her go. His veins started pulsating again as he bore his mouth into hers. Marluxia stared in terror as Vexen pushed her up against the wall, draining her last lifeblood in one draught and breaking up, her body limp in his arms as he took one final glance into her lifeless eyes and at her lips, marred to the unspeakable from their blood kiss.
"You can announce your presence now," he said, letting the woman fall dead to the floor before turning to face Marluxia, his arms open to welcome him. Marluxia ran into his embrace and buried his face in his shirt to hide that he had been crying.
"How could you?" he whimpered.
"That kiss was simply to feed, nothing else," Vexen murmured, trying to sooth him.
"You have never been so loving towards me!" Marluxia sobbed.
"I… did not wish to be… clingy," Vexen said quietly.
"Clingy?? You hardly even care to be with me!!"
"That is not true!" Vexen growled. "I spend all the time I can manage together with you!"
"Is it that crucial to hang out with whores??" Marluxia yelled and tore out of the embrace. Vexen gave him a saddened look, receiving a death glare in return.
"I've had enough! This just won't work… Vexen… You can't force me into this! I am leaving!" Marluxia exclaimed and covered his face as he rushed to the entrance door. As he was to push down the handle however he heard a faint click, like from a lock even though there were no keys in sight.
"Open up again," Marluxia snarled. Vexen gave him a cold gaze before he turned to face the stairs.
"I advice you to get some sleep. It is late."
"You're not leaving me locked up here for another night!!"
"It would be wise to make up your mind as whether you actually want to stay or not… Things will get difficult between us if you cannot tell whether you love me or not. Believe me, a centuries long argument is nothing pleasant."
X
Marluxia woke up late the next day and looked around him groggily to see whether Vexen was anywhere near.
Then he remembered the fight they had. He had acted like… a complete idiot. Perhaps the shock had gotten to his head… If this kept on then perhaps it was for the best if he simply ran away, promise or no promise he thought, as he got to his feet and started dressing. Well… simple and simple… The closest he had ever come to outside the castle had been the greenhouse… Perhaps he could say he wanted to go back to town to get some things from home…
"What the…?"
His bedroom door was locked securely.
"Going somewhere?"
"Let me out of here," Marluxia snarled without turning to face the familiar voice.
"You think I would lock you up simply to let you go?"
"Then why are you here?"
"Simply to get this," Vexen said. The younger turned to see him remove an envelope with red wax seal from the floor underneath the chair. "The wind must have made it fall off after I left and you did not notice it… Perhaps it was for the better that you did not see its contents after all…"
"What is that?" Marluxia asked as Vexen made a move to put the envelope in his pocket. Vexen halted. His eyes had an odd, slightly glazy red colour. He did not meet the other's eyes.
"Something I thought was of great importance… Obviously it is not."
"Wait, what is it?"
Vexen gave him a measuring look, and then scowled.
"Your mind changes too often for me to entrust you this," he growled quietly. There was a look of utter annoyance on his face. Marluxia glared at him, though he knew very well that it was true… at least that's how it appeared. But… Vexen had kissed someone else… True, he had also fed on that someone killing her instantly but the way he did it… So… tenderly… As if it was someone he had loved for a long time but knew he could never have… thus taking her life for no one else to have it.
"If that was all, please just leave," Marluxia said quietly.
"Blunt as always," Vexen murmured with a vague smirk. "Dulled by your surroundings… I am almost regretting my choice of someone so naïve… Then again… your immaturity is entertaining, it makes up for your inexperience and portrays it… sweet…"
"V-Vexen, what are you…?"
Marluxia stared at him with confusion in his eyes. Regret? Was that really it…? No… He didn't want to believe it.
Vexen merely stood there, waiting for him to finish speaking.
"Vexen, what are you saying?" he asked, shocked at the other's words. Vexen was supposed to love him, always, never go back on his word...
"I am saying that perhaps I should have chosen someone more capable of controlling their own emotions," Vexen said coldly. But then he let the annoyed mask drop again, a devious smirk taking its place.
"I believed you would not bother if I told you. Then again, do not all fear rejection?"
"I…"
He gave a yelp as Vexen advanced on him and effortlessly pushed him facedown on the bed.
"I am gone for less than two days… And you betray me yet again," Vexen whispered before he settled over Marluxia and began tearing his clothes off.
"V-Vexen! Please!!" the younger cried, clutching his shirt.
"I know I love you, Marluxia. And I am content with that. Even if it means I have to hurt you to get what I need. I already told you," Vexen murmured, breaking up his fists so he was free to throw his shirt to the floor. "You also know, that I came to seek the perfect remedy. The perfect remedy against loneliness, and that I am not returning home empty handed."
Marluxia stared at him in utter disbelief as the truth washed in over him. He should have known all the time… he had known all the time…
"I want you to listen carefully," Vexen said as he had stripped the younger completely. "Tonight I am going to make you bleed, to regret, and most of all know this… When the full moon shines over Paris it is your last hours as a mortal."
Marluxia shifted uncomfortably underneath him. He felt panic. Unrestrained panic.
"Usually I am not one to punish… not for what others have done to me," Vexen whispered and began undoing his pants, his voice shaking in sadness as he spoke again. "But… But I believed that… you actually loved me… and I…"
He let out a sharp sob.
"I have never been so happy…and then… you ruin it all…"
Marluxia clenched his fists in the sheets before him, tears of both pain and sorrow in his eyes running down his cheeks. And then he screamed.
He screamed so it could be heard through half of the castle as Vexen pressed into him from behind, without any preparations.
And he tore, and he bled, and he cried knowing it was all intended. Vexen intended to hurt him.
But worst of all… Vexen believed that he didn't love him. He wanted to tell him he was wrong, that he loved him more than anything, that he would rather die than be without him, but his voice was lost as Vexen thrust into him with all his might having him scream of pain and grief, only able to mouth the words between gasps of pain.
The words he had always meant to say but never had gotten right.
I love you…But Vexen couldn't see as his vision was obscured in tears of blood.
And Marluxia did regret. If he could ask for forgiveness only once again it would be to Vexen, even if god could forgive all his sins.
It seemed to go hours before Vexen violently thrust into him one last time, releasing in a loud groan before quickly pulling out, leaving the younger in a heap on the edge of the bed after mercilessly being turned to lie face up, tremors of strain running through his body.
Vexen sat by his side, patting his hair affectionately, watching his chest heaving in time with his panting.
"It is sickening," Vexen whispered. "The way you have become… So lustful, yet still naïve, with no control over your own desires."
His hand travelled down to the younger one's crotch, his member surprisingly hard.
Marluxia hissed as he felt the other's fingers closing around him, whimpering as Vexen slowly began to pump him.
"If this pleasure is the sole reason why you tell me lies, please stop it," Vexen continued. "I will provide it… Out of love… Even if it is not mutual… I can always… close my eyes… and pretend…"
"B-but, gh… I…. Hnn… I do- Gah…!"
Marluxia was unable to form coherent words as he felt his climax closing in. Vexen was right… he was a brat with no control over his desires…
Two nights ago everything had seemed so perfect… Why was this bound to happen…? Why could they not just live together… without these fights…
A loud scream left his lips as he bucked up against the other and cum in his hand.
"Get up," Vexen ordered. The younger stared at him pleadingly but was forced up on shaking legs. Then he was bent over, his hands on his knees.
Cum and blood seeped down the inside of his thighs as Vexen entered him again, standing this time, the fluids letting him slide in easier now.
"Hng… Vexen… Please… have pity…"
"I was never one to give in to cries of mercy," Vexen replied and began rocking into him with sharp, steady trusts.
"Gh… hng… uuh…!"
"By the sound of it… you are truly enjoying yourself," Vexen panted, pulling the younger onto him to meet his thrusts having him moan like a girl at every movement.
"Hnn… oh… Vexen!"
"Is it… the absolute… subservience… that turns… you on?" Vexen breathed.
"Oh… Gods… Mercy!!"
But Vexen ignored him once again, except his movement turning even more brutal. Marluxia dug his nails into his knees, begging for the pain to go away. But the gods would not hear his pleas… He could only hope that Vexen would…
Why did everything have to be so difficult?
It took shorter time for Vexen to reach his peak now, Marluxia joining him, both groaning as one.
But that delightfully freeing sensation of heaven was far away as they collapsed over the bed.
They remained silent for a while, Vexen still buried inside him as they lay there breathless.
It was… revolting… Nausea welled up inside him as hands travelled up his thighs and he felt the other harden. He was moved over to his side, Vexen lifted his leg so he could enter him sideways.
"Vexen… don't… please…"
Yet again his pleas were disregarded.
Screams… moans… His throat was raw from the strain, his body quaking uncontrollably as his being was claimed for the third time that night.
Something had to be done… If Vexen kept going like this… every night… His body simply wouldn't handle it.
He lay there half unconscious in blood soaked sheets, Vexen mercilessly pumping into him, slower now, ignoring the fact that the younger gave no objections or any sound at all.
It felt like an eternity went by before he released, alone this time. Marluxia was simply too strained to respond in any way.
"Why is the world so cruel…?" he whispered hoarsely, sobbing quietly as Vexen collapsed at his side after unsheathing himself.
"You keep asking about that…" Vexen said, pulling his pants back on before rising to his feet. "You should know… I feel guilty…"
Marluxia gave him a blank stare. Vexen sighed before turning towards the door.
"It pains me… that anytime you speak those words it is I who have been cruel to you…"
"I…"
Marluxia smiled vaguely. He felt… relieved… Everything else was going blurred…
"I thought you didn't care… thank you…"
"Marluxia!"
Said one did not know why Vexen called his name with such worry in his voice, he didn't truly register it either as darkness consumed him, that smile around his lips faltering as he passed out.
X
Marluxia had no idea how many days had gone. He had lost count as his only window had been barred up from the outside, blocking out all sunlight. He had been restricted to his bedroom, the bathroom, the small dinning hall and the hallway between these. Everything else had been securely locked, keeping him from any additional movements. There had been no further visits from Vexen and he was slightly concerned. Though exactly what his worries were about he did not know.
Definitely not Vexen. He knew all too well how the other could manage on his own. All this times of worries had been for naught.
Vexen had said it was sweet… but never actually cared…
Words… they were nothing but hurtful. Perhaps… if silence could be retained, then everything would be fine again…
Everything could be perfect again…
Marluxia found himself in the dinning hall. A silver tray with a small lunch had been left behind for him as he slept, with it a petty dagger for parting fruit.
Perhaps it was a solution… Maybe the best of all… If anything went wrong, death was really not a significant matter, Vexen made sure of that, right?
Shaking fingers closed around the blade.
If the other had been there now, would he even have cared to object?
X
Marluxia's eyes fluttered open. He was rather surprised to see he was back in bed. His throat was raw, and newly removed bandages lay at the bedside. His fingers reached up to touch the recently mended skin, finding the texture of a large scar running just below his Adam's apple.
A warm hand stroked his forehead and he looked up into glazed frosty green eyes.
"What have you done to yourself…?" Vexen whispered. His voice was so pained, so full of grief it was horrendous.
"Seeing you like this… it is insufferable," he continued. Marluxia opened his mouth to speak, but no sound would escape him, so he simply closed it again, a light smile perching his lips.
"I am so sorry," Vexen said, pulling the younger over in his lap, embracing him a bit too tight and clutching his nightshirt. "Please forgive me," he pleaded, burying his face in Marluxia's neck, hugging him tight as if he was his lifeline.
"I had no idea I would impel you to this… That you… that you rather die than be with me…"
So Vexen thought it had been an attempt at suicide…
He could believe what ever he wished… everything would be perfect now, Marluxia thought, wrapping his arms around him.
Vexen quaked at the contact and soon he was sobbing silently into the Marluxia's shoulder.
"What have I done…?"
Marluxia wanted to say something, anything to soothe him, tell him that it was all right. It had been an act of love; he was forgiven, for everything, that he would never, had never been able to hold his anger for long.
He wanted Vexen to know that he had no reason to be sad, no reason to regret… since Marluxia loved him. He loved him more than life itself and absolved off all his cruelties…
But he couldn't…
Those hurtful words were gone, possibly forever… He had lost his voice…
And he smiled there he lay in Vexen's arms. Never were those words going to break them apart again.
X
"Gh! What the…"
Vexen tuned in his tracks to find a fairly too innocent looking Marluxia behind him, his gloves covered in snow.
"Snowball ambush? Oh, you cheating little…! You know what I told you about that!"
Marluxia merely grinned childishly having Vexen break up into a smile.
"Have it your way then," he smirked, his eyes flashing red as he summoned up several snowballs from the ground having them chase Marluxia all over the castle courtyard. Vexen watched in mellow amusement as Marluxia tried to escape with a panicky expression on his face, tripping, receiving three snowballs in the back of his head before pointing accusingly at the older.
"Are you alright?" he asked, chuckling as he kneeled down beside Marluxia only to be forced headfirst into a large heap of snow.
Marluxia grinned sheepishly, knowing he would pay severely for that.
The last days had been… wonderful…Vexen talked a lot more now, and he stayed with Marluxia as often as possible, guaranteeing himself that the younger was doing well at any time. He had ensured the other that his voice would probably return is some days, though Marluxia was still glad it hadn't done it yet. He knew Vexen missed to hear his voice, but he needed more time. It didn't seem as the older read his thoughts any longer either. Perhaps he had understood and accepted the younger one's wish of silence, Marluxia was not sure but he was ever thankful.
As dusk came they decided on returning to the castle, both soaked by sleet as they settled in a small study for themselves in front of a large fireplace. Marluxia sat down on the rug and motioned for Vexen to join him. The older gave him a hesitant glance as he tugged at his wet shirt. They yet hadn't been intimate since the rather unwilling séance a while back. Marluxia had a feeling the other was still troubled by it, but he still needed to get the wet clothes off so carefully Vexen folded his own aside before helping Marluxia with his.
The hearth crackled peacefully, casting an orange glow over the two naked forms snuggled up in each other's arms. Marluxia carefully played with some strands of Vexen's hair, letting it slide through his fingers. It seemed almost like silk at touch. Vexen looked so calm resting in the soft rug, his eyes closed, a hand stroking the back of the young man lying atop him. He didn't seem to have one care in the world.
"Sacrifice," he suddenly murmured. "It was the one thing needed, yet I cannot help but wonder… Could we have managed without it…?"
He was met by silence, as always these days.
"I should be able to hear your voice… without fearing a rejection. At least when I know we can live together… I miss your voice so awfully much… Marluxia… Marluxia, what are you doing…?"
His eyes snapped open as a leather band was tightened around his wrists, locking them together over his head. He stared at the younger in confusion as he realized his hands were tied to a leg of the heavy wooden table next to them.
Marluxia only grinned before mouthing the word 'shoelaces'.
"My, are we not clever? Intriguing, if I remember correctly? Then again I, unlike you actually have the power to break free."
Marluxia made a small pout. If he had been in Vexen's position right now he would probably have broken free at once but considering he had already been through one round of bounding then surely the other should too.
"Aw, fine… Let us see what you have in store," Vexen yielded, smirking as he shifted himself into a more comfortable position.
Marluxia leaned back to get a proper view of the other's naked form. It was the first time he actually got the opportunity of studying Vexen's features. He had seen him in the diffuse light of the midnight hours and his curves revealed under wet clothing. Here in the eerie glow from the fire he loved them even more, and he could see Vexen harden visibly as he drank upon the sight of his unveiled being, strong, yet slender though with unusually broad hips for a man. Marluxia found himself taking a liking to them immediately.
He was in charge this time, and yet… cruelty didn't really appeal to him. It was kind and tenderly that his hands ventured over the other, feeling his curves, Vexen willingly arching up to let him caress his rear, kneading, squeezing gently having him moan and squirm in his arms, that red sheen returning so quickly to his skin as he began sweating.
Never had he been allowed to touch… Any time he had wanted to he had simply been pushed away…
Marluxia's hands elegantly slid down his chest and stomach before resting on his hipbones, a slight hesitation before they closed around the other's stone hard member. Vexen hissed at the contact, bucking up against him as the hands began to move.
"Gh… M-Marluxia… y-you don't have… to do this," he panted, receiving a sharp look in return. This was exactly what Marluxia wanted to.
"Hng…"
Triumph flashed through Marluxia's eyes as Vexen kept bucking up against him at the same speed as his hand moved.
Slow, steady… the warmth radiating from the two about to strangle them.
"P-please… take it… in your mouth," Vexen begged, missing the other's bewildered look seeing his eyes were pressed tightly shut. "Uhn… please…"
Marluxia took a deep breath, trying not to panic as his hand let go. The mere thought was... should disgust him... and yet it was oddly arousing...
Slowly his mouth descended on the erect manhood, his lips closing around the head, tasting.
"Nh… more…"
Marluxia took him in a bit further, entranced by the fact that he had Vexen squirming and begging on the floor underneath him. The younger slid further down, hearing Vexen moan loudly but he couldn't help but halt as he felt the tip of his erection poke him in the back of his throat and it was seconds before he choked.
He slowly began pulling out again, frowning slightly at the sweet taste of pre-cum.
"Gh… M-Marluxia…!"
Said one braced himself for Vexen's climax, taking in his length again, as far as he managed, trying his best to relax. Vexen bucked up with a soft scream as he cum, Marluxia close to gagging in surprise but swallowed as best as he could. It took a second for him to clear his mind enough to let go of Vexen who was panting heavily.
"I am sorry… I forgot it was your first," Vexen said breathlessly. "I should not have pushed you… But it was not too bad for a first either…"
He gave a short laugh as Marluxia put up an affronted look.
"No worries… I would teach you if it was not for these shoelaces," Vexen murmured, chuckling lightly. "You have all the time in the world at-"
Vexen was silenced as Marluxia pushed three fingers into his mouth. He was disappointed, as Vexen didn't seem to mind at all. He had hoped he would be at least the tiniest unnerved. It did after all look like he was planning on taking him. A pleasant shudder ran through him. Vexen knew how to work his tongue.
He would show Vexen he could drive him wild.
"No need to be gentle with me," Vexen said as he pulled out his fingers. "I can take a little rough treatment."
Marluxia only grinned and shifted his position. Pose. Vexen's mouth fell open as the younger pressed a finger into himself.
"Gods…"
Marluxia's eyes flashed triumphantly as he began moving the finger, Vexen completely dumbfound, staring, hardening.
In, out, in, out… frosty green eyes locked to his actions.
Sultry smirk… Another finger pressing in, Vexen writhing in tension as Marluxia began stretching himself. He would have Vexen scream for him to untie him. He had been in that situation himself but seeing he was the submissive one the needs hadn't been as intense. Marluxia was getting painfully hard, his body glistening in sweat, his skin coloured like bronze by the dancing flames of the hearth. Seeing Vexen squirm without even the slightest touch was magical. He did his best to ignore his own needs, trying to focus on his fingers, pushing deeper inside, a small sound escaping him, not exactly a moan for his damaged throat wouldn't allow it.
"Damned tease," Vexen breathed, his hips arching the slightest, the warmth, the tension and the goddamn show Marluxia was displaying were suffocating him.
The younger one's tongue snaked out from between supple lips, licking the fingers of his free hand as he pushed a third finger into himself. Vexen gave a small, out-of-breath laugh.
"Are you going through all this trouble, simply to please me?"
Marluxia's eyes narrowed, a seductive smirk perching his lips.
Yes… simply to hear your moans and screams of pleasure…He pulled out his fingers, slowly, making sure Vexen followed his every move before he shifted, hovering over him, their bodies centimetres apart.
"Untie me… and I will bring you to heaven," Vexen murmured, leaning closer to steal a kiss, but Marluxia drew back, just out of reach. He frowned at the younger one's smug grin and shuddered as he felt a hand running up the inside of his thigh, almost touching his erection. He arched his hips, green eyes filled with need, desperate lust.
"Please… Let me… feel you…"
Soft lips descended on his heaving chest, closing around a nipple. Gasps escaping him, as hot, wet tongue tortured the sensitive flesh.
"Hng… please… untie me…"
Vexen had wanted to go along with Marluxia's little game. Then he should by all means follow the rules.
"Please…I need…"
Marluxia paid no attention to the other's pleas but settled over his crotch, readying for penetration. He couldn't help but wonder whether he had waited too long. Would the preparations be a waste…?
"M-Marluxia… s-stop…!"
He hadn't thought his damaged throat would allow him to scream, but he did, the sound hoarse and low, and even so he pressed further down, soon settled on Vexen's broad hips with his full length sheathed in himself.
"Marluxia!! Are you hurt??"
Painful…
Yet he had felt worse.
Vexen stared at him as in shock, tugging at his restraints, his eyes… glazy… but his concentration was far-gone, rendering him just as helpless as any mortal.
"It is… odd," he whispered shakily, a drop of blood sliding down from his left eye. "Whenever you hurt yourself I only want to hold you in my arms and take away the pain… Yet never did I care when it was I who caused it…"
Marluxia only shook his head and gave him a sharp look. Of course Vexen had to dig forth his own faults at a time like this. The younger didn't want to remember.
They gave a united groan as Marluxia hoisted himself up before slamming back down onto Vexen.
"Hng… Marluxia… You are going to hurt yourself…"
Marluxia shook his head before rocking back down on the other again, much more gentle though forceful. He gave a soft, hoarse moan as Vexen arched up to meet him, increasing their pace, thrusting up with all the strength he could gather in his current position.
"Mmmmmh, yes… you truly have… learned a lot," Vexen panted, beads of blood red sweat on his forehead. Marluxia was breathing heavily himself, not sure of how much longer he could go on.
"Do not strain yourself for too long," Vexen breathed, tugging at his binds as he bucked up, seeing how hard the other was, already leaking heavily. Marluxia gave a half choked moan, feeling Vexen begin to pre-cum within him. That show he made with the preparations had brought them both so close.
"Hnn… Marluxiaaa!"
Said one gave a hoarse scream as he cum, moaning loudly as he felt Vexen coming within him, joining in his scream. He swayed, falling against Vexen's heaving chest, panting sharply.
"Uuhh… V-Ve…."
But his voice wouldn't hold more, the rest of his words choking in his damaged throat. Vexen inhaled deeply, then exhaled slowly, trying to calm himself, shaking slightly after his orgasm. He blinked, staring at Marluxia.
"You almost said…"
Marluxia only lay there, smirking somewhat at his own achievement, panting like an exhausted dog. Vexen let his head fall back, slowly regaining his breath. It didn't take long time however, and soon he was able to break through the shoelaces keeping him tied up with a harsh tug. He wrapped his stiff arms around Marluxia, holding him to his chest. He failed at keeping back a low chuckle as Marluxia made a disappointed pout.
"You knew I was able to break loose," he said, ruffling the other's hair. Marluxia only stuck out his tongue, Vexen, in response licked it. The younger blushed slightly, resting his cheek against Vexen's chest. "It was simply a matter of concentration."
He sat up, hugging Marluxia tightly.
"Are you alright? You were not hurt in any way?" he asked softly, nuzzling the top of the other's hair. Marluxia shook his head, leaning onto him. For once this wouldn't end in a fight…
X
"I want you to join me for a walk outside the grounds."
Marluxia looked up from the book he was reading, blinking at Vexen. Slowly he nodded and got up from his chair, taking the hand that was offered him. They left the library in silence, hand in hand. After a ten-minute walk or so they were out in the entrance hall. Marluxia couldn't help wincing a little as he saw a dark spot reminding awfully much about old, dried blood on the wall. His grip on Vexen's hand tightened a little and even if he knew it was Vexen's doing he felt more secure being close to him… he was so warm… so full of life that day…
They reached the front doors, which slowly swung open by themselves as they approached them. Carefully they walked down the large stone steps not to slip, as there was a thin layer of ice covering them. Marluxia squinted as he was met by clear, blue sky. Not a cloud in sight. The afternoon sun was gleaming in the snow, everything seemed so bright… so pure…
Vexen shot him a concerned look, guiding them down the old stone path that crossed the castle grounds. Marluxia shook his head, smiling. Yet a part of him was sad… he had been in the darkness for so long his eyes took long time to adjust to the sun nowadays… He had almost forgotten what the clear sky looked like… Now that he saw it again… he found himself missing it so much… Working in the small garden at the backside of his house in the late spring, taking long strolls only to watch the flowers bloom… He had always lived for the sun, not the darkness, yet even the light was rejecting him now. Soon he wouldn't be able to be out in the sun at all… unless he fed… Killing to see the sun? It sounded pathetic… He wondered how long it was till the moon was full, or whether Vexen really was planning on waiting that long. In reality he had a hard time imagining himself as a vampire. It seemed so unreal, unthinkable... He was no murderer... not like Vexen. But what would it help saying it?
Eventually they reached a huge iron gate, statues of winged monsters guarding its sides. Vexen put a hand on the lock and it fell open as if it had been taken apart in seconds. Then the gate slowly creaked open, letting them out on a broad road leading down from the hill where the castle lay. Marluxia heard the gate swinging shut and the lock reassembling behind him, all by itself. He kept wondering how Vexen did that, but it surely explained how he had managed to get into the shop without any effort. He halted, looking back at the castle. It seemed even larger from the outside as he hadn't yet been in all the places inside. He gave up counting the towers, but quickly concluded that the one reaching over all the others had to be the northern one where Vexen resided. It was funny… up until now they had only slept in the same bed once. He didn't know if Vexen had even slept that night... Or if he had been there all the time.
"Are you coming?"
Marluxia turned back to Vexen, quickly moving over to him. Vexen took his hand, guiding them down the wide path. The road was old, made for carriages and trolleys, probably. There wasn't too much snow in the way, so it was an easy walk. The path snaked down the hill about three hundred meters before it parted in two different directions at the edge of a cliff. The road to the left was wider and seemed to be the one in most use. It went straight down the sleek hill and into a large forest of pines. Marluxia guessed that was the road leading to the city. The path to the right was narrow, about half of the other. It followed the edge of the cliff, a few willows scattered here and there. The snow lay thick in every direction, the sky darkening.
Vexen led them to the right. Marluxia became aware of a strange rumbling sound and unconsciously kept closer to the other. They walked on in silence. Marluxia wished he had his voice back, or for Vexen to say something. The rumbling sound just kept getting stronger the longer they walked, and it was getting dark too. Slowly the sun sank down in the horizon, colouring the sky in red, pink and warm violet. It was odd, finally being outside again… not just in the courtyard. If he were to escape, this would be it… The thought hit Marluxia hard. He wanted to be with Vexen. Surely he shouldn't have such ideas now, not after all he had gone through for him, with him… Now that they had finally found peace together he shouldn't think like that at all. They were happy now… together…
Vexen walked around him, wrapping and arm over his shoulders.
"I want to show you something… Something I believe you have never seen before," he said. Marluxia looked up at him in near confusion, not knowing how to react. Vexen only smiled, pulling him up towards the edge of the cliff. Marluxia gave something reminding of a surprised squeak, jumping back as he realized what the rumbling sound was. There below the cliffs lay the ocean, giant waves surging and crashing against the cliff. Vexen chuckled, hugging him close before pulling him further down the road which was now getting steep, winding around and down, in between two large gate-like stones and they were out on a small beach. The sand that wasn't covered in ice or snow lay white all the way from the foot of the hill to a pile of boulders, a quarter of a kilometre away. Marluxia blinked, taking in his surroundings with awe. Never had he seen the ocean before… then again, this meant the castle lay far away from Paris… probably closer to Cherbourg or Le Havre, seeing Vexen came from London... He sighed, inhaling deeply. The smell of salt wasn't so strong at wintertime, but he still felt it, and it was wonderful.
"In that direction," Vexen said, pointing towards the northeast. "Lies England. More correctly Portsmouth from where we will travel to London."
Marluxia nodded, following his gaze, before once again looking over the ocean, then glancing at Vexen. The older gave him an approving smile and he shot down towards where the waves crashed against the sand.
"Try not to get yourself wet," Vexen said, following after at a normal pace. Marluxia looked back waving a hand and pouting slightly then removed his shoes.
"Marluxia, you will get a cold…"
Marluxia only stuck out his tongue and pulled up his pants to his knees, wading out in the icy cold water. Vexen rolled his eyes, sitting down on a boulder with crossed arms, watching with an amused expression. Marluxia looked back at him, frowning as to say, 'you better join or I'll make you'.
"No, not in a million," Vexen said, snickering. Yes, Vexen you would know everything about that, Marluxia thought, rolling his eyes. He bent down, shivering as his hands made contact with the icy water, then smirked, squirting water towards Vexen, who yelped, covering himself with his arms getting his shirt wet and cold. Marluxia gave a hoarse laugh but immediately stopped as Vexen snatched his shoes, waving them in front of him.
"It might be cold getting home without these," he said, smirking. Marluxia gave him a slightly exasperated look, throwing himself after Vexen, missing of course as Vexen was much too fast and agile. He didn't even have to move his feet to get out of reach. Marluxia made a feverish sound, lunging after him through the sand and it was cold!! Vexen only chuckled, running in the opposite direction of where they came from, up some narrow stone steps that zigzagged up a steeper side of the hill, towards the castle. Marluxia was shivering now but tailed on, annoyed by how Vexen went slow enough for him to keep up but always scooting out of his reach at the last second. He snarled furiously, cat and mousing the other half way up the steps before Vexen took off, sprinting out in the snow to the left. The sun was almost set now, and the sky was coloured in dark violet, a faint red glow in the horizon.
Vexen turned abruptly, catching Marluxia in his arms as he came flying onto him. Marluxia growled quietly, shivering and clinging to him.
"Oh, cheer up," Vexen murmured, pulling him into a cold kiss, trusting his shoes back to him.
"…C…c… co…"
Marluxia swallowed hard, trying to force forth the word. Vexen stared at him, seemingly holding his breath. They both turned however as a shrill howl tore through the cold night air. Vexen looked towards the direction they came from with a soft smile.
"Listen to them – the children of the night. What music they make!"
Marluxia looked up at him, confused.
"Wolves, my love," Vexen explained. "The woods are full of them. They wake at night time, their voices greeting the moon as it rises."
An amused smile spread at Marluxia's lips as he watched Vexen staring at the moon. It was almost full… reminding him of his own fate, but he pushed that away for now. Seeing Vexen like this was… strange…
"Come… we should go back before the hill is full of them," Vexen said, purring passionately before he turned, waiting for Marluxia to get his shoes back on then strolled back down the stone steps. Marluxia couldn't help jumping as he heard another howl, closer now; answered by one coming from the direction they just left. He latched onto one of Vexen's arms, hugging it tightly as he looked around for the source of the sounds. More wolves joined in the howling, some from behind them but most seemed to come from the direction they were heading. Marluxia bit his bottom lip, clutching Vexen's arm with both of his own.
"Do not fear. These are merely wolves, I can effortlessly take care of them," Vexen said, patting Marluxia's head. Marluxia frowned, still not liking the thought of being surrounded by a pack of wolves. He was still cold too, and it really wasn't pleasant. It was quite the long road back… What if they got attacked and then separated…? Without Vexen he was defenceless…
They walked on in silence; Marluxia half wishing Vexen would say anything to drown out the howls, which were getting closer by the second. He clenched his jaw, swearing he had seen yellow eyes glittering somewhere in the darkness. Vexen had sped up a little now making it difficult for Marluxia to keep up and not just hang onto his arm like a rag doll, panting slightly, his breath coming out with puffs of white mist.
"Come," Vexen said, picking Marluxia up.
Vexen seemed to hover, or glide more than running, for his feet didn't move. Marluxia's eyes went wide and he clung to Vexen as they, he concluded, flew over the landscape. The howls kept getting closer, though Marluxia wasn't as scared now, whether it was because of the speed or the closeness. Having Vexen hold him like that was… comforting, even given the situation.
"Hold on tight," Vexen murmured into his ear, and seconds later Marluxia thought he would fall, a loud squeak leaving him as he clung to Vexen's neck for his bare life.
Underneath them the ground was getting more and more distant, and darker. He could see black spots on the otherwise white ground that could have been the wolves, now the size of a matchbox, a stamp, very soon not more than tiny ants far, far beneath them. The rush of cold night air around them whistled sharply around their ears, truly refreshing. They were flying, Marluxia mentally screamed, his insides whooping in pure joy as he realized. He was flying! What all humans dreamed of! But how...?
He twisted around in Vexen's arms, still holding his arms in an iron grip on his neck, to look over his shoulder. Large, leathery wings –or his cape, Marluxia couldn't decide- were joined from Vexen's back, beating steadily as they rose higher and higher. It got colder too, not good considering Marluxia's feet were already wet, but that problem lay far from his mind now. Vexen had wings, he thought, quite stunned.
Gracefully they soared towards the castle, and Marluxia spotted a small settlement on the other side of the forest. The lights from the many windows were shining like stars in the ocean of dark fields and trees. They were probably just a small spot of black against the starry sky themselves to anyone who would look up while out on a nightly walk... anyone with a normal life... Marluxia shuddered, for a moment longing back to his days in Paris, as if it was a life long, long ago.
They had reached the top of the hill now, and with one forceful beat of those massive wings they rose above the tall castle walls and across the courtyard.
All too soon they began to descend towards a large balcony with no railing. Marluxia pulled his knees to his chest as well as he managed in Vexen's embrace, expecting a hard impact. Vexen however landed as soft as a cat, his wings falling limp, again just an ordinary black, long coat.
Carefully he let Marluxia down on the stone floor, as if afraid he would fall, and with good reason. Marluxia was shaking all over, hugging himself, eyes wide as saucers. And yet he looked marvelled, caught in a brilliant bliss after the short flight. Vexen could not help but smile a little. He slipped one arm around Marluxia's waist, pulling him close to place a tender kiss on his cheek.
"I will have to leave you for a while," he whispered softly. "The wolves were acting strangely."
Marluxia tilted his head to the side, looking curiously at him.
"Usually they would not chase me. I can only suppose there is something disturbing them."
Marluxia nodded, though he did not fully understand. He had heard once that vampires could control animals like wolves and rats, but he had never believed it. Well, to be frank he had never believed in vampires before he met Vexen, and even now it all seemed so unreal.
He watched in his usual silence as Vexen strode over to the edge of the balcony, turning back only to wave farewell. And then he fell into the dark nothing below. Marluxia was a little frightened at first, but he quickly calmed down again as he heard the faint beating of wings. He stood still, scouting for any sign of Vexen, but everything was dark. The balcony itself was barely lit by some chandeliers that shone through the tall glass doors leading out to it. There was a fairly small amount of light coming from the castle overall. If he had been a bit more courageous he would have peeked over the edge of the balcony to see how far it was to the ground.
And then, in the far distance he could see him, a black silhouette clearly visible against the moon, large wings spread out like a giant bat, or bird of some sorts. Marluxia could feel the joy rushing up inside of him just knowing that high, high up there his Vexen flew through the night, the light of the moon and the stars caressing him together with the cold air.
Just watching was magical, and knowing he had been up there too made it all so much more real. He savoured the sight for the few seconds –though it felt like hours- it lasted, until Vexen disappeared outside of the moon's outline, towards the forest. Still a little dazed, he went for the balcony doors. Just as he closed the door behind him he sneezed loudly. He groaned, knowing he must have caught a cold. He could always take a warm bath. Maybe he could find some herbs in the kitchen that would work nicely.
He sat course for the kitchen, full of thoughts about curling up in front of a fireplace with a good book and something warm to drink as he heard a soft sob. Brows furrowing in confusion he looked around to locate the source of the sound.
At another sob, he turned to face a table propped against the wall of the dim hallway. Huddled underneath it sat Claudia. Quickly he kneeled next to her, gently placing a hand on her shoulder. She made a low squeaking sound, shuddering visibly. Slowly she turned to look at him, relaxing a little as she saw who it was. But even then she was shaking like a leaf, looking utterly traumatized.
Marluxia wriggled in discomfort from the intense, horrified eyes, wishing he had his voice back with every fiber in his body so he could assure himself she was alright.
Then he noticed the blood on her hands and knees. The black in his eyes contracted in fear.
"C-Clau..."
His voice would bear no more, and he could feel the frustration and agony welling up inside himself. Staring at the terrified girl, unable to do anything, he felt nauseous with worry. He grabbed her shoulders firmly, begging she would understand and tell.
"B-basement," she hiccupped, squirming in his arms to try and get free, large tears streaming down her cheeks.
Basement...
Marluxia stared back at her. Basement. She had gone down there?
He recalled Vexen telling him not to go there... What ever had Claudia seen?
What ever had happened to her, where did the blood come from??
At loss of what else to do he began looking the girl over for any injuries. She was scared and rather unwilling, but strangely enough she appeared not to be harmed physically in any way.
Thank gods, Marluxia thought, hugging her to his chest, She whined, trying to push herself free of the embrace. Surprised, Marluxia let go of her. She gave a tiny cry and scrambled back under the table. He felt a sting of pain at the reject. Claudia had looked up to him, been so kind to him... What ever was down in that basement had really scared her.
He got up, taking a step backwards from her. She kept whimpering and crying, rocking back and forth on the spot as she hugged herself.
Well then... There was only one thing to do. Go down to the basement and see what ever it was down there.
Hopefully there will be more horror in the next part, more things happening... and drama. There will be drama.
Thanks to everyone who reviewed! I can't say how happy it makes me to see that there are people on this page able to give such wonderful feedback! Keep it up, and I will do all I can to make this fic perfect. It's special to me, and I need proper concrit (constructive critisism) to make it unforgettable.
