Author's Note: chapter 15 is finally up! It took me a while to edit it. I noticed that there aren't many stories about Joachim interacting with the monster's in Walter's castle. Since my story closely follows LoI, I wanted to explain how the new surroundings in Eternal Night would affect Joachim. Sometimes I wish I didn't suck at drawing so I could provide concept sketches of my original characters. If readers could see them, it might make them more likable. Catherine is described from Joachim's POV so I hope if you are reading, you will think his devotion to her is understandable.
Special Thanks:
If you are reading/following this story, thank you (even if you don't review/leave feedback).
LateNiteSlacker: Thank you for reviewing :) I think I've read way too much Hamlet and allowed it to influence this story. I noticed that in the game, Joachim's theme resonates with tension, sorrow, and anger. Some really bad things had to have happened for his character to be portrayed in such a dark context. As for Catherine, you will "sort of" get your wish to see her in this chapter, though I promise she will return later on. I hope you can see how Joachim's transformation is beginning to change him...and Walter certainly isn't helping. I always believed that the relationship between Joachim and Walter (if you can even call it a relationship) was characterized by constant power-struggles, turmoil, and perhaps grudging admiration for each other. I am really pleased you have kept reading and to see that you are interested in Catherine. Usually, reader reception toward original characters is "lukewarm" at best...
I'm glad that when this story gets a bit too dark (even for me) I can retreat to yours and get a few laughts out of seeing a lighter, more playful portrayal of Joachim.
Rahar Moonfire: As always, thank you for your loyal reviews! It means a lot. The tension will continue to build between Joachim and Walter from now on. Don't worry, if your looking for more "action" you'll get to read some, eventually. I like to take my time since it would be a bit OC for Joachim to suddenly sleep with Walter after his transformation. ;) (I'd bet his fans would like it anyway, though!) Poor Joachim in this chapter though...I almost considered writing a lemon between him and the Succubus but it didn't seem right since he's intelligent/perceptive enough to know her true identity. Well, if demand for it is high enough, I might reconsider... *cheeky smile* I've even 'considered' a Mathias fling but I think Mathias is too crazy/self-absorbed/in love with Elizabetha to really take an interest in Joachim.
AzariyaBelmont: Thank you for reviewing :) I am flattered you really like my story and think it is great. I wish there was more extensive fanfiction available about Walter. I think Walter is a multi-dimensional character with a basically (blank) backstory that leaves tons of room for imagination and development. There will be more between Joachim and Walter later on. I'm starting to understand why Joachim gets so irritated by Walter - despite trying to villainize him he is just too likable (sometimes). Walter has darker/violent tendencies that often (and unintentionally) overshadows his kindness...
Chapter XV
When he awoke, his eyes drifted hazily throughout the small room until they fell upon Walter. The other lord stood near the gated windowpanes, his back turned to him, whilst his gaze lingered upon the moon looming in the black night sky. The moon's red glow cast a strange light around his armored form, its reddish beams spilling across the floor around his feet like remnants of blood. The sight transfixed Joachim, his pale eyes widening until the other lord suddenly turned to face him, his ivory face gleaming. "It seems you are awake," Walter observed in a quiet voice, barely batting an eyelid when he added. "Your wounds have healed as well. I am glad." The lord flicked his cape, allowing the garment to wrap around him as he approached the stone angel. He cast a sharp glance at the object, his lips forming into a sneer before dismissing it. A satisfied look appeared upon his face as he studied the young man carefully, impressed by Joachim's pale flesh and hair.
Joachim bolted to his feet, his body trembling under the vampire lord's meticulous gaze. He felt much stronger, now. For the first time in his life, he got up without gasping for air or struggling. His body felt like it had been re-made. Everything seemed new to him, as if he had just awoken from a nightmare. A smile spread across his lips, exposing his fangs, whilst he straightened his posture and raised his head. He could tell his excitement amused the other lord. A low chuckle vibrated through Walter's throat as he watched the young creature bound across the room's small pathway and up the two steps. "Am I dead?" It seemed too good to be real. He could run without feeling like he was going to faint. Nothing inhibited him. Not even the sickness that burdened him when he was human.
"Yes." Walter answered, still chuckling, though humoring his obvious question. The vampire's dark eyes glinted. "Are you pleased with the results? As promised, you are completely cured. You have nothing to fear now."
"Except you." Joachim's eyes hardened upon the other lord. He had not forgotten what transpired before he fell asleep. Despite his elation, he remained cautious and kept his distance.
Walter seemed to gain even greater amusement from watching him back away, evidently, aware of what his new companion was implying. His voice calmed while a serious air overtook his lighthearted sentiments. "You will not have to fear me," he replied, giving the white-haired creature a deliberate glare. "If you obey me. Tis' simple, really. I have claimed you for myself – everything you are belongs to me. My castle is your sanctuary and you may go where you please, though I warn you, I will be greatly disappointed if you try to escape."
"Am I your prisoner?" Joachim sneered, hating the idea of being controlled in any way. The sound of the other lord's laughter rang through the room and echoed off the walls, nearly deafening him.
A flicker of amusement appeared in Walter's eyes, his lips forming a slight smirk before he shook his head, the tendrils of his red hair splaying across his shoulders. "No…tis' not like that," he answered enigmatically. "As I said, you are free to explore at your leisure. Though, it would be unwise to disobey me. You do not yet understand what it means to be vampire, Joachim. Human beings will try to kill you on sight. Leaving here could mark the end of your immortal life."
Joachim contemplated the other vampire's words. It was true. If he left, he was not sure what he would do or where he would go. Armster Manor was out of the question. Not even the sanctuary he had as a human could protect him now. He was at the mercy of Walter, dependent upon his lord for his very life, protection, and guidance. The idea of escaping dependency as a sickly lord, only to regain it again as a vampire incensed him to no end. An indignant scowl pressed across his lips, his voice reproaching the vampire for his over-confidence. "And what will happen to me if I stay?" He asked, testing his lord's patience with a will to defy it, if necessary. "I am no use to you. I don't even know my own powers, yet. Surely I will burden you?"
"Quite the contrary." Walter replied, a smile spreading across his face in rebuke of the young creature's skepticism. A dark glint appeared in his eyes. "I have spent many centuries alone in Eternal Night. I confess, it has been too long. Your presence here will break the monotony of immortality. At least, that is my wish." He shrugged casually.
"So I am here to amuse you, then? Like some sort of court jester?" Joachim sneered. How he loved testing Walter's patience.
Walter remained completely calm, his eyes continuing to study him carefully. A dull, red flicker appeared in his irises for a second, until he shook his head again, ignoring the young man's attempt to bait him. "No," he replied, his voice articulating every single word to prevent any possibility of misinterpretation. "It is not that simple. You are here because I hunted you, tainted you, and made your beautiful body immortal. I admit, you are the only one who is worthy of serving me."
"Of serving you?" Joachim threw his head back, allowing the sound of his loud, chilling, laugh to reverberate through the room. His eyes flashed a hint of red. As suddenly as he laughed, he calmed and withdrew a breath, his lips curling in defiance. "Oh, my dear Walter, do you think I am a fool?" He chided under his breath, his thoughts focusing on the sword he left near the statue, which was conveniently located behind his lord's imposing frame. "Don't flatter yourself! I have no intention of serving you, and I apologize in advance if the news is disappointing. Have you forgotten the fact that I am a lord? I serve only myself."
"So you think." A scowl formed across the vampire's fine lips. Before the white-haired youth had the chance to speak again, Walter's form disappeared in a black shadow, before reappearing directly in front of him. Joachim nearly fell over, his face a mask of terror and rage when the vampire's powerful hand seized him by the neck and lifted him off the floor. His eyes widened into blue spheres under the gauntlet's constraint, which squeezed his throat so hard that his vision blurred. "Please, continue," Walter smirked, his dark eyes eyeing the young man with mock-interest. The only sounds that returned his request were the dull, trembling gasps that managed to escape the young man's throat as he feebly struggled to free himself. With a huff of impatience, the red-haired lord pulled him closer until faces were inches apart. "I will not tolerate disrespect, Joachim." He growled, his teeth baring just enough to flash the tips of his razor-sharp fangs. "Perhaps, a lesson in manners would do you some good. I detest harming you but you left me no choice. If you wish to debate this matter further, by all means, do so now…if you can."
His grip upon Joachim's delicate throat tightened, giving the newly turned vampire one last jolt of pain before dropping him on the floor like a dead animal. Joachim coughed and heaved to breathe. The stiffness in his neck gave him the feeling that he had just been put through a vice. "Walter," he wheezed, gasping for air as one of his hands grasped the other vampire's boot and clung to it. "…you…enjoy…tormenting me…don't you?" He reached out, his claw-like fingernails scraping across Walter's boot as he grasped onto it desperately, his eyes widening as a surge of rage and dread overcame him.
"No, I do not." The glint of satisfaction in the vampire's dark, starlit eyes betrayed his calm response. Even then, he caught the faintest hint that some part of Walter was human enough to sympathize with his plight. In a dull murmur, the red-haired lord added under his breath. "Do not make things difficult, Joachim. I will forgive you for your impertinence this time because you are newly turned. However, it would be unwise to test my patience again." In an attempt to calm him, one of his gauntlet-covered hands grasped the young vampire by the arm and lifted him onto his feet with such strength and speed, one may have thought the young man weighed nothing at all.
So much had happened to him in such a short amount of time. The trauma of what he had endured made it hard for him to compose himself. Nevertheless, he gave the other lord a stiff bow, his white hair flowing gracefully around his ashen face. Between gritted teeth, he forced a smile and replied coldly. "Forgive me, Lord Bernhard for my sharp tongue. If you require anything – anything at all – do not hesitate to ask. Your wish is my command, oh great master of darkness."
For a second, a tint of red flashed in Walter's eyes, whilst one of his hands appeared ready to cuff the young man across the face. His hand promptly seized him by the collar of his robe and dragged him so close that their faces nearly touched. In a dark whisper, he answered. "Be careful what you offer me. I may just take it – whether by your will or not."
"There is nothing more you can do to me that has not been done already." Joachim gave the lord a serious look, his eyes returning the warning with a familiar red tint. However, next to the larger, more powerful lord, he appeared delicate and weak. Despite his powers, he did not stand a chance. He knew his new 'comrade' and 'lord' was capable of killing him as easily as a fly.
A mocking laugh escaped his throat when Walter lightly shoved him back, though even that gentle gesture made the young man slam roughly against the wall behind him. "Oh, I am certain I could think of something," He remarked as one of his hands brushed back the veil of red hair covering his left eye. His lower lip curled deliberately. "My imagination is rather extensive. Do not forget, I have lived for centuries. If I truly wanted you to submit to me, I would have already succeeded by now. You are not as hard to break as you think." He stepped forward and cast a shadow across the young man's pale figure.
There was nowhere for him to run and no escape. Joachim pressed his back against the wall as hard as he could, ignoring the scraping sound his armor made when it ground against the stone. His pale blue eyes widened again and he found himself unable to move. Walter was so close that he could crush him there like an insect. Though he was not a coward, he was fighting a battle he could not win – at least, for now. Thus, he slunk against the wall, his breath whispering his defeat. "Forgive me."
Walter paused, his dark eyes studying the youth's expressionless face as though deciding whether his apology was genuine. When the young man lowered his head, he stepped back, at last satisfied by his compliance. "Very well," his deep voice replied. "I will let you alone for a while. There are other matters I must attend to. If you decide to wander about, be mindful of the monsters, for they know not who you are and may attack without provocation."
Joachim only gave the other lord a stiff nod in reply. With a smirk still pressed upon his fine lips, Walter turned away, vanishing abruptly in a flash of white light. He waited tensely for a few minutes, his eyes and ears alert in case the other lord had not truly left. However, when the silence remained unbroken he breathed a sigh of relief. Suddenly, more than anything in the world, he wished Catherine could comfort him. But she was in Creightel, far away from him, perhaps still searching valiantly for him. She would never find him as long as he was trapped in Eternal Night. I cannot bear the thought of Catherine seeing me now, like…this. It would surely kill her. I have already caused her enough grief to last a lifetime. He was no longer a ruler over his own domain. The thought almost made him wretch inside. I am no one's slave. The thought echoed through his mind as he sulked, alone, in the small watery chamber. His eyes scanned the room and locked upon the four other swords scattered across the floor near the doorway. If he could use one, surely five would be even more dangerous.
A tiny smirk crossed his ashen lips as he focused on all of the blades simultaneously with his mind. As a human, he was a swordsman – surely, his talent would only increase as a vampire. The once heavy and awkward swords were capable of becoming effective killing mechanisms if he could master them. He focused his thoughts harder. It was much easier than before since the blood rejuvenated his body and mind. Come here. He called to the swords while extending his hand, so that his claw-like fingernails beckoned the blades forward. I require your services. I am your new master, now, and you shall obey. Rise up. The remaining four swords shifted across the floor, their metallic blades gleaming in the room's aqua blue light. Joachim's smirk broadened as he began to laugh. A strange, purple glow surrounded his body, while he slowly rose off the floor. It did not take him long to notice that he was hovering above the ground, his feet no longer requiring the floor for support whilst his telekinetic energy kept him suspended. The liberating feeling was overwhelming. He spun in mid-air and swooped around the room, delighting in the fact that he could cross the pools without rippling the surface of the water. It was almost as though his illness was a long-forgotten memory – as if everything, his entire life, never existed. Vampirism had improved him: he was perfected, stronger, faster – and hungrier. His laughter continued to build until he could contain himself no more, his voice crying out a reproachful command. "Cover me!" In response, all five swords rose off the floor and flew to their master, their massive blades pointed downward as they circled around his frail body in a clock-wise pattern. Joachim folded his arms across his chest and calmed until his eyes narrowed upon the swords. Ah, my beautiful blades, you shall never leave me nor I, you. The power of my thoughts will compensate my body's weaknesses. For, you see, Walter knows neither my mind nor my heart.
Yet, he was shocked at his own behavior. He no longer needed to walk – his own power allowed him to levitate, freeing him of the restraint that plagued him as a human. Without hesitating, he flew toward the door. The door's light blue frame admitted him beyond the safe confines of the little sanctuary. Pale red moonlight flooded through the great windows lining the left side of the corridor. The white-haired youth moved toward the door at the end of the corridor. Curiosity or perhaps more so, a desire to fight, made him quicken his levitating speed. It was as effortless for him to fly as it was to walk. Nevertheless, on several instances, he nearly lost his balance and fell. He would need more time to practice. Be still! The swords aligned themselves behind his back. Whenever he moved, the swords moved as though merged with his body, their five rusted blades completely still. A sickly greenish glow surrounded each of the swords he controlled. Never, not even in his darkest nightmares, did he imagine that he was telekinetic. As his body wasted away, his mind had become powerful and focused, his senses heightened from constant rest. Whatever the source of his powers was, he could not resist smirking to himself.
Before long, he wandered into a large, open room with a circular platform up a small flight of steps. The first thing that caught his gaze was the ominous red eyes of demon's skull carved into the stone floor. Projecting from its skull were two twisted horns like that of a ram. It was a strange, oddly chilling image, which he could not erase from his mind. The room was silent and empty, giving the impression that it was seldom visited. He flew up the steps and looked at the platform, where the sight of five circular pedestals set into the ground greeted him. Without knowing where any of them led, he randomly chose one and floated upon it. Within seconds, the room disappeared in a blinding white light and feeling of weightlessness consumed him.
Joachim found himself floating in the middle of an elaborate theatre. The eloquence of his surroundings stunned him, his pale blue eyes widening from the sights and sounds. Since he was a child, he had heard of great plays performed in some of the Europe's most prestigious theatres. Yet, none of the architecture in human theatres could compare with the one he was in. Lavish sofas and chairs were scattered throughout the entranceway. In front of him was a beautiful staircase covered by an elaborate gold carpet. He descended the stairs and took in the theatre's grand, relaxing ambiance. Candles along the walls lighted the room, illuminating the area even though his improved eyesight did not require it. His finely tipped ears twitched upon hearing strange, operatic sounds drifting faintly in the air.
He traveled through the theatre in a manner not unlike a prince. His pale skin illuminated his sallow form, whilst simultaneously, emphasizing his grandiose appearance. The young vampire's indigo colored robes, elaborate chest armor, and white hair gave the impression that he was attending an important performance – or rather –was a part of one. Although his feet never touched the beautiful carpet, he could not resist admiring the theatre's architectural design. Like the epic, the theatre's grandeur was timeless. However, like the tragedy, unmistakable sadness accompanied its splendor. Many great plays were acted out and never again performed within its walls. Sad arias drifted through the corridors, filling him with longing. The theatre was calling the souls of men and women, ghosts of a long-forgotten past, to return for a final performance. Yet, he knew the theatre would be waiting for eternity, lost in time and beyond memory itself.
He loved every moment he spent within its lonely walls, secretly desiring to comfort its sorrow with his presence. There was no doubt in his mind Walter must have loved the theatre even more than he. His lord's artistic taste astonished him. How many plays had Walter seen throughout the centuries? Mortals did not have eternity to uncover the mysteries of faith, love, and life itself. Life was spontaneous and mysterious simply because it was so brief. Now that he would live forever, he wondered if over time, he would begin to lose his fascination with life and death. Neither existed for vampires. The theatre allowed him to glimpse into Walter's mind. It marked a time that had come and gone, like many things he imagined Walter had experienced since his conception. For a vampire there was only beginning. Joachim realized that his life would be like an unfinished book – always writing in its pages, so that even when it seemed he had done everything, more blank pages would be waiting to be filled. Life without death was like a story without an ending.
His brief feeling of freedom within the theatre made him slightly relaxed, though still alert. After a while, he entered what appeared to be the main area of the theatre – the stage. Ahead, short steps led onto the wide and empty wooden platform. Surrounding the circular room were balconies decorated with red curtains matching the curtains around the stage. His thoughts immediately drifted away from grand plays and mournful arias. A gasp fled his lips upon sighting a familiar figure sitting on the edge of the stage. Though he wanted to smile, he suddenly stopped and covered his face with his hands, his nail digging into the sallow, lifeless flesh. He trembled for a moment, barely able to speak the name that made his heart ache. "Catherine!" The young woman was seated upon the edge of the stage in her amethyst dress. Her hands were placed delicately on her lap and her jade eyes glinted enthusiastically. He could not withhold the torrent of emotion that flooded through him as he looked at her beautiful, smiling face, and into her deep emerald eyes. Coils of her thick, black ringlets fell passed her smooth shoulders and down her sloping back as though she was a goddess of the night.
"Joachim! I've been waiting for you here, at last you have come!" She cupped her hands together upon sighting him, her voice light and strangely airy as she continued. "What happened to you? I was looking for you everywhere. You always make me worry…"
He felt his cheeks flush under the vibrancy of her gaze. He drifted closer to her, his eyes locked upon her, whilst the longing in his heart seemed to finally rest. Nevertheless, he tried to hide his face, masking his shame behind the curtains of his silky white hair when he replied. "Catherine! Don't look at me or approach me! Walter…he did something…terrible to me. You must not-"
"Joachim, please, everything will be alright. I am here and I do not fear you." She extended her hands, her delicate fingers reaching out for his embrace while she whispered. "I know what happened. It does not matter, now. I searched for you so we could be together again, just the way we used to be, before all of this happened." Her eyes were so pleading that, for a second, his desire to go to her overcame his hesitation. Without thinking, he flew toward her, tears brimming in his eyes as he sought the warmth of her embrace. More than anything, he wanted her to rid him of the coldness in his heart, of the feeling that he was turning into someone he no longer knew. It was so very easy for familiarity to envelope him since everything in the castle perplexed and terrified him.
His lips verged on the form of a smile until he levitated within a few feet of her. Catherine did not rise to greet him but instead, remained where she sat, grinning at him. Upon seeing him hesitate she called out again. "Joachim…I thought you missed me?" A look of dejection spread across her face while she blinked at him like a lost little lamb. "Are you not happy that I am here? I came here to take you home again. You do not belong here."
"…Home?" Joachim croaked, his breath hitching in his chest from the forbidden thought. Though his flesh was nearly white, he somehow seemed to turn a shade paler. "Catherine…I cannot go back. It is too late. I am…no longer…human…"
"Don't say such things!" She protested, her voice straining on the verge of breaking into sobs. The sight of her sadness made his heart wrench inside his chest. An intolerable pain filled his very soul as he lowered his head, casting his eyes upon the floor while she continued. "It is never too late as long as we love each other."
The truth in her words made him accept her embrace. He pressed his cheek against hers, running his fingers through her thick, ebony hair, immersing himself in her presence as if meeting her for the first time in a thousand years. She wrapped her arms around the back of his neck and pulled him closer. He felt her breath tickle his ear as he captured the sweetness of her lips upon his cold, lifeless ones. All the pain inside him seemed to disappear in the familiarity of her kiss and touch. Her hands groped through his hair as she let out a quiet moan, seeming lost in the bliss of their long-awaited reunion. Promises of starting anew, running away somewhere, to a place no one could find them. He fantasized suddenly waking up in bed with Catherine by his side, her emerald eyes shining with joy after a long night of watching him while he slept, ensuring his sickness was driven back so another day could be his, and another moment together secured. Is this all a dream? How long had it been since he last saw her? Did time truly stand still for vampires? It seemed so, for she was exactly how he remembered her before the fateful night Walter took his life, body, and soul. But there was one thing the vampire lord could not take…
He kissed her deeply, overcome by a will to smother her with the fragile emotions he had concealed for so long. A strange urge filled him the longer they embraced. A ravish desire to have her, and everything she was, for himself. The need ached through him like an open wound and compelled him to accept the gentle caresses of her roaming hands. He felt her fingers brush across his thigh to his groin; all the while she continued to kiss him, unhindered by the coldness of his touch and the silence of his heart. A low moan vibrated through his throat from the aching hardness pressing against his britches, their white color allowing her to witness his arousal and need. However, something within him screamed for him to stop even though his body demanded gratification. This was unlike him. Indeed, he remembered he had once been rather prudish when it came to physical love. Now, he was not even a human being. How could she not care about what happened to him? Why would she not want to leave right away and escape before Walter noticed? As if he had been slapped him in the face, he pulled away from her, ignoring her started cry as he looked at her directly in the eyes. A sinister chill ran through his entire body. Though the woman's eyes bore a resemblance to Catherine's, the lust and malice within them revealed a treacherous intent. With a snarl, he summoned one of his swords with his mind, sending the blade directly into the chest of the creature he held. "Who are you?" His pale form darted back as though in the presence of something vile and diseased. It disgusted him, reviled him, and made his soul scream in agony and rage. He had been deceived…so very easily.
"Well, you're very observant. It isn't often someone can see through my disguise. I had hoped to get a little more insight on you since you made me curious. However, you're equally as curious as I am, so I see no need to continue looking like this." The creature's eyes darkened and she began to change form before his eyes. Joachim watched non-blinkingly when her amethyst colored dress changed into black a black corset, exposing the protrusions of large, supple breasts. The bodice split down to her hips at the front. Shoulder length blond hair fell down her back, and her bare arms were tattooed with elaborate vine-like designs. Protruding from her back, however, was an indication that she was far from human. Leathery bat-like wings folded around her seductive figure. As she looked upon him with her dark, glimmering eyes, her lustrous ruby lips formed a slight smile. "Ah, you're quite a handsome young man. I think I'm going to enjoy this." The creature's voice was no longer Catherine's – it had taken on a bold, presumptuous tone.
"Put some clothes on." Joachim muttered, looking away. "Foul temptress! You appeal to man's lowest desires. I will not waste my breath talking to you."
Not once did she show any sign of being insulted. In fact, it seemed quite the contrary – she shook a finger at him playfully as her feet pranced across the stage's worn floorboards. For a moment, she appeared to take on the façade of an actress – and like everything else about her, he guessed that her conduct was as well. "Oh don't be so unfriendly!" She replied. "I'm impressed that you're not so easy to fool. I can tell your feelings for her are still strong, which means you must be newly turned. Walter is hardly as interesting. Time, it seems, has made him hide his heart." She flicked her hand with an obvious wink. "I didn't even bother to wait for that accursed bell to ring like Walter commands me to. I'd rather see you while you're still here, especially since I was getting bored."
"My affairs are of no concern to you, whatever you are." Joachim replied coolly, daring her to approach while his swords whirled rapidly around him. "I'm not interested in talking to a demon. I shouldn't be surprised that Walter locked you in here."
The creature's smile did not disappear, though a tone of irritation was detectable when she answered. "Walter has always been extremely moody. One moment he can't keep his hands off me, the next he rebukes me. Being with him has become tedious since he always asks me to take the same form every time we copulate. I am so weary of Walter's fantasies…my current form is far more seductive thanthat woman…"
Joachim gritted his teeth together, his hands clenching into fists. "I do not want to know Walter's intimate preferences!" He spat, his lower lip curling. "I wandered in here by mistake and I shall be leaving now. Unless you have a problem with that?"
"What if I do? You've stumbled into my domain, and since I've got nothing else to do, I might as well toy with you for a while. It's very rare for anyone make it this far inside my theatre, especially a human." She puckered her lips and cackled. Her loud voice rang through the room and resounded off the walls as she flew toward him, her wings outstretching while one of her hands pulled Joachim's embedded sword out of her chest. A thin line of blood ran down the shaft of the blade while it obediently returned to protect its master.
Joachim fixated his gaze upon her slender form, watching her movements carefully. "If you come any closer," he warned. "I will slice you to pieces. I am not a human anymore. I am…what you see before you. I will have nothing to do with you!"
"Such audacity! My, my…I know what you are – your Walter's newest pet. I don't think he's ever kept one alive long enough to be turned into a vampire, though. I know why he chose you." Her eyes glittered with amusement. It was obvious that their conversation was about to take a darker turn.
Joachim's patience was wearing thin. The pain of realizing his deception ran deep, almost to the point that he was tempted to battle her. However, he knew that a creature such as she, despite her beauty and sleek form, was more powerful than she appeared. Perhaps, regrettably, more powerful than him. "Shut up! I am not his 'pet', and it's none of your business to meddle in my affairs." He hissed through gritted teeth.
"It's not fair." She replied, deliberately ignoring his objections. "I'd like to see you again...when Walter isn't keeping such a watchful eye upon you. Who knows, perhaps you and I-"
"I would rather spend an eternity in solitude than a single night with you." Joachim sent one of his swords colliding into her chest again. His attack drew blood, but it left no mark on her skin.
"How rude!" she scolded, placing her hands on her hips as the sword dislodged itself and returned to its master. "Normally, I'd kill someone for trying that…but you are too handsome to make me angry. Of course, Walter would also not approve…"
Her voice trailed away until he huffed. "Why do you linger in this deserted theatre?"
She wound a lock of her golden hair around her finger, twisting it as she replied coyly. "You should be grateful you can go wherever you choose, whilst I sit here in this dusty old place waiting for Walter's guests."
"I'm not free to go wherever I want. Walter refuses let me leave this castle." Joachim sneered, hating the reality of his words. "If it were not for him I would have left this place already. You are a Succubus – the demon that deceives and destroys men who make love with you."
The demon winked at him again, her smiling lips confirming his suspicions. "Yes, that is true. However, the undead – like yourself – are unaffected by my powers. Oh, how I would love to disrobe you and touch your cold, naked flesh…it would be simply divine! All of your previous lovers could not match my ability to satisfy you."
Joachim looked away from the creature that sought nothing but lust. It was not human and did not possess a human heart. A succubus was incapable of providing any man with real love and compassion – only temporary satisfaction, which forced the unwary victim to return for more until only a shell of his soul remained. It was a chilling thought to behold, one that made his voice sharp with disgust. "Don't even imagine it. I know your treachery and seek no pleasure from you. Even if my soul is damned, I will not betray the woman I loved – love – so easily."
"You're quite a vampire." Succubus remarked, her eyes narrowing. "Love is a noble concept. I am sure your feelings for her will pass since men are fickle by nature, after all. I've been here for a quite some time and my entertainment is restricted to only the men who brave death by coming here. Yet, despite their proclamations of love, none have been able to resist my temptations. All the men who have come here – from the lowliest serf to the bravest knight - have died naked in my arms, their lips still pressed against my own and their bodies moist with perspiration after copulating with me. Though I disguise myself in the image of their lover, if their love was true, they would have sensed my deceit. Perhaps, as you did…" Her eyes twinkled and he folded his arms across his chest from her words, hearing her add in almost spitefully. "It's a shame Walter has not found a worthy adversary. All men are weak and seek nothing except physical pleasure." She beckoned him, licking her lips while her body drew nearer to him. "I like immortal beings; they have such a wondrous taste. Why restrict yourself by retaining the feelings you had when you were human? If she saw you as you are now, I doubt she would love you or even touch you."She tossed her golden hair, her eyes glimmering with a convincing look of sympathy and concern. "Come here…I do not fear you. Let me comfort you, embrace you, satisfy you…"
The second she tried to wrap her arms around him, Joachim recoiled from her, his eyes widening. "Don't you dare even touch me with those filthy hands!" He spat, his eyes burning with so much fury that he could barely withhold the desire to slice her head off with one of his swords. "If you speak about her again, I swear I shall cut you into pieces and serve you to Walter on a silver platter!"
"Are you so certain about refusing me? I'm the pinnacle of every man's desires, and I guess if you weren't a vampire you'd be far easier to tame…but I like challenges." She smirked persistently, bending her body forward in a mocking bow in order to expose the contours of her breasts.
Joachim covered his eyes with his hand. "I merely wandered in here, and I think I will show myself out."
"Oh don't go yet, I was just getting warmed up! Really now, for a vampire you certainly don't possess Walter's charisma. He must have seen something in you, but since I can't get the pleasure of watching you die, I'll have to let you leave." Her smile faded into a slight frown, but Joachim ignored her and levitated toward the door.
"I don't require you to let me do anything." His eyes blazed again, locking onto her when he looked over his shoulder. Succubus flapped her wings toward him, and cupped her palm to her face while her lips parted and gracefully blew a few magically conjured red rose petals in his direction. Joachim waved a hand and swatted them away, growling under his breath from her gesture.
"So brave too! Pity I have to let you go, but you're always welcome back here in case you change your mind." She winked at him again and vainly wisped back strands of her blond hair. "You don't know what you're missing. That woman who seems to be close to your heart isn't anything compared me-"
"Shut up!" Joachim sent his swords toward her with their pointed ends directly at her, piercing into her flesh until she gasped and staggered back in the air with flaps of her bat-like wings. He breathed heavily and bared his fangs when the swords returned to him and stilled around his back. His eyes narrowed and glowed red again, piercing upon her form and beckoning her to speak. The Succubus fell silent, her face a mask of bewilderment. Her words sent tremors through his body, and his fists shook until he stared at them and managed to still his body in place, where he levitated gracefully over the carpet in the hallway. "Stupid wench. I should not have come here." His words escaped through his lips in a low mumble as he dashed from the stage and hurried out of the room. The sound of the succubus' laughter followed him as he went.
In his haste, his mind lost its focus, and his body suddenly dropped onto the floor like lead. A spurt of blood escaped from his mouth when his skull smashed against the stone floor. An explosion of bright, white pain flooded his vision as he lay on his front, gasping and moaning in agony. The incident on stage distracted his once focused thoughts. Fortunately, he had injured himself in an empty hallway instead of a monster-infested room. He cursed under his breath as he channeled his powers. Within moments, his body rose into its upright position in the air. Tears brimmed in his eyes and threatened to fall. A hope, once bright, was suddenly extinguished. Never in his life had ever felt lonelier than at that moment. The demon's cruelty stung him worse than a thousand curses. For a moment, he actually believed he had found Catherine again and that the nightmare was over. The pain he felt inside his blackened heart reminded him that it was only the beginning. He carried his sorrow and grief with him in death, remembering the pain he felt when everything he loved was lost.
After some time passed, he returned to the small blue sanctuary to rest. Blood continued to trickle down the cut in his lip as he sat near one of the watery pools, gazing emotionlessly at his strange, vampiric reflection. His soft, ivory hair, curtained around his face as he wiped away the tears staining his lifeless flesh. Before he could begin to think, a started gasp escaped his lips and he leapt back when Walter's crimson reflection suddenly appeared next to him in the water. "Good evening," The vampire lord greeted him with a coy smile, his eyes lingering upon the young man as he leapt to his feet, his swords whirling around him protectively. "I was looking for you. I noticed you visited the theatre."
"Yes." He answered, his pale blue eyes refusing to look at Walter. Be still! The swords ceased their whirling and aligned themselves behind his back. He did not want to deal with the vampire lord. Without adding anything, he turned away in disinterest, his shoulders tensing as he floated beneath the stone angel, lost in his own thoughts.
Walter, however, was persistent. A twinge of concern permeated through his deep, enchanting voice. "It seems you have learned to control your powers," he added delicately. "How clever of you to make use of those swords. Centuries ago, vampires butchered humans with those very swords. Your telekinetic abilities are rather impressive. I did not expect you to master them this quickly-"
"Stop flattering me, Walter." Joachim snapped, refusing to look at the other lord as he folded his arms across his chest and lowered his head. He looked at the gated windowpanes where the red moon glowed like a demon's eye in the night, making him wish that he could see the moon's natural pure white light instead. The only thing he felt was a dull hunger and a painful throbbing in his face.
"Interesting…" Walter mused, ignoring his insolence. Joachim felt the other vampire looming behind him and flinched when one of his gauntlet-covered hands touched his shoulder. His pale blue eyes gave the other lord a wary glance, though the softness in Walter's voice was somehow comforting. Walter's dark eyes traced the young man's expression, quickly sighting the crimson blood that trickled down his chin from the deep gash in his lower lip. The red liquid contrasted against his smooth, ashen visage. "What happened?" He asked, his voice tensing.
With a sigh, Joachim glared at the red-haired lord as his fine lips formed a sarcastic sneer. "What does it look like?" A chilling silence returned his remark. He was almost certain Walter would chastise him for his impoliteness.
To his surprise, the other lord merely sighed. "I see. That wound shall heal within the hour. Vampires regenerate on a much faster scale than humans do."
"I suppose I should consider myself fortunate." Joachim replied, his eyes shooting daggers at Walter when he looked over his shoulder. Even though he was dangerously close to his lord, he did not refrain from adding. "And praise you for tainting me, Walter. Allow me to show my gratitude." Without hesitating, he whirled and backhanded the other vampire across the face. The movement was so quick and unexpected that Walter staggered back, gasping in surprise while his once dark eyes radiated bright red. Joachim summoned his swords as his eyes narrowed. In response to his mind's command, the swords flew toward the other lord until they embedded themselves into the stone floor, their tall, glinting blades surrounding Walter's great frame. His lips curled into a frown when Walter quickly regained himself.
For a moment, the demon's expression wore a look of absolute fury while the razor-sharp points of his fangs gleamed in the room's aqua glow. Although he had struck him with all his might, his attack did not even leave a mark upon Walter's visage. A low growl vibrated through the other vampire's throat during the brief silence that followed. He waited tensely in anticipation of his lord's wrath – ready and willing to receive it so that he would lose himself in the pain.
However, the rage in Walter's eyes quickly turned into delight, whilst his growls ascended into a proud laugh. The amusement on his face stunned Joachim, who could do nothing except listen to him reply. "You think you can harm me with your pathetic power? You are so very naïve, Joachim. Nevertheless…" Walter paused to compose himself while the smile he wore broadened. "I suggest that you reconsider your approach. I can tell you are growing weak again…and since you do not know how to hunt…I am the only one who can sustain you. Perhaps, I should leave you for a while and let your hunger grow. The pain you would feel then would be far worse than any punishment I can inflict."
A look of horror spread across Joachim's face and his eyes widened, transfixed upon the knowing look in Walter's eyes. Yet again, his impulsiveness had gotten the better of him. He could almost feel all the color he had left, if there was any at all, drain from his face. He clutched a hand to his chest and backed away, his body stiffening under his lord's scrutinizing gaze. "No!" His voice croaked against his desire to remain composed. "You can't leave! It is your fault I need blood in the first place! Don't…leave me…"
The pleading look he wore seemed to make the other lord even more determined to disappear as suddenly as he came. However, Joachim felt a light-headedness take hold of him, and his frail body suddenly crumpled onto the floor. One of his hands clawed against the stone, his black nails scraping against it as he tried to force himself up while reaching out to the other lord with a likeness to a child. Walter merely stood and watched, his amusement growing at the sight of Joachim's pathetic appearance. The vampire lord had an ability to predict exactly when the young man's strength would leave him. Without the nourishment of his lord's blood, Joachim realized that he was at the mercy of death. He writhed in pain, his voice crying out and echoing off the room's narrow walls. It felt like he was dying all over again, though his agony seemed unending. After a deliberate pause, Walter approached and grasped him by the jaw, forcing his head up so their eyes met. A flash of disgust and pleasure appeared upon his elegant visage. The vampire's glossy hair splayed against his high cheekbones and ashen flesh like fire, his voice a deathly whisper. "Though I should leave you here, begging on the floor, I will intervene. Does it surprise you that I pity you, Joachim? I will give you my blood if only you would remember my kindness. If I did not want you to live, you would be dead already. And…if I wanted you to suffer…" His voice trailed off into an uneasy silence. Joachim already knew the ending to that statement without needing it said.
It occurred to him, despite his agony, that Walter had simply replaced one weakness for another. Even though he was not ill, his dependency on blood was capable of killing him just the same. His fear and horror consumed him with a desire to be released from it all - and warm, thick blood, promised a temporary escape. However, a pang of guilt flooded through him at the thought of living off Walter's blood like a parasite. His hunger exceeded blood alone. Indeed, he could not resist the chance to reciprocate in his own, special way. Walter's face was so close the opportunity was evident. Without hesitating, his hands flew to Walter's neck and unhooked the clasps on his collar. For a second, Walter seemed to take the sudden gesture as an attempt to harm him. His muscular body stiffed, ready to knock the young creature away from him in an instant. However, he peeled back the fabric, hungrily seeking the pallid flesh beneath. His lips wandered to the base of Walter's sloping neck as his eyes glazed, fascinated by the other lord's beauty. Walter was truly mesmerizing whenever he was close enough to feel him, and everything he was, against his own body.
There was something wrong with what he was doing, though, and he knew it. Something inside him was forever stained by lust, pride, and envy. He wished more than anything to know the source of Walter's god-like strength and power. The fact that the vampire lord could create eternal darkness was incredible. If he could not have Walter's power, he would have Walter instead. It was a compromise with the potential to become dangerous over time. Nevertheless, he ignored his thoughts as he kissed Walter's neck and relished the sound of his lord's pleasured moans. The softness of his kiss was merely a prelude to the pain he was about to cause. Without warning, his fangs punctured through, causing a river of red to flow across the once beautiful, milky white flesh. Blood gushed down his throat and entrenched him in a sensation of bliss. Walter's form trembled, barely able to sustain the wound the white-haired youth deliberately inflicted. He knew if he did not do something to ease his lord's pain, it would be impossible for him to feed for very long. His hand slid down his lord's armored chest to the vulnerable organ between his legs. Warning thoughts encroached upon his efforts. I have betrayed her, now. If she saw me, she would not recognize me. I am not certain I would recognize myself…a slave to blood…and Walter's passions. Damn him…! His warped expression concealed the rage bubbling within his tainted soul. A hardness pushed against the silky black fabric in response to his caressing hand. Somewhere, deep inside himself, he retained his stubbornness and pride. Though you may derive pleasure from using me, be careful, Walter, not to become the one who is being used…be very careful, indeed…
He could feel his lord's neck tensing under the pressure of his fangs, threatening to make him release his hold. Joachim's stroking hand became more forceful, while his desire to quench his thirst drove him to continue pleasuring the other lord until he was satisfied. The vampire's dark eyes glinted, fighting back the urge to let the white-haired youth bring him to a climax. He felt Walter's hand seize him forcefully by the hair and yank his head back, ripping the fangs out of the skin with the swiftness of a viper. He gasped in pain and surprise, his pale eyes widening under Walter's powerful grip, while his scalp felt like it would detach from his skull. The red-haired lord's lips curled as he rasped, his voice hoarse with pain and rage. "Enough!" As though he was a rag doll, Walter tossed the young man across the room. Before Joachim could even consider what was happening, his back hit the wall, the impact winding him so that he slumped against it. Walter rose off the floor, his elegant face warped by fury. "You have pushed me too far, Joachim. Your greed for blood exceeds your necessity. Do not ever do that again, or I swear to you, it will be the last time you do."
In Joachim's disoriented haze, he could not comprehend what Walter meant entirely. However, it shocked him to realize that, somehow, the other lord was aware that his passion was far from genuine. A faint, though audible hint of dejection was detectible in Walter's voice. He could barely believe it until his gaze met Walter's starlit eyes. Despite Walter's attempt to keep him unaware, a terrifying storm raged beneath his calm, dark gaze. As though aware of his perceptiveness, Walter's eyes turned a shade of red. Within moments, he was consumed by a desire to sleep, his mind lulling his thoughts into blackness. The last thing he saw before his eyes closed was Walter standing over him, looking down at him, a gentle smirk pressed across his lips. Victory was his – this time.