Author's Note: Well, here it is the lemon. I am not even going to pretend I'm good at writing these things. I hope I don't disappoint you, though this lemon does have a purpose and isn't here just because I felt like putting one in. You'll know what I mean if/when you read to the end paragraph. If you aren't a fan of yaoi or simply don't like lemons, read the beginning half and the last paragraph. However, from now on, the story WILL take a darker turn. I am starting to wonder if this is even the same Joachim I wrote about 20 chapters ago... :(

Special thanks go to my beta readers for checking this prior to its public release (Rahar Moonfire and LateNiteSlacker) :D I want to know what the public thinks of this major chapter so feel free to review!

Special Thanks

Thank you to everyone who is following this story. I love it when people review (and I will be responding to them shortly). It means a lot and I hope you will continue reading. :D I'm going to try using that individual "review response" option thing to cut down on the page length of my posted chapters (ha!)

Extra special thanks go to the people who took the time to leave me reviews: Suikorin, LateNiteSlacker, Rahar Moonfire, TheGhostisReal

thank you :)

Chapter XXI

Joachim's ears pricked at the subtle tone of Walter's voice as the vampire ushered to a chair near the head of the long banquet table that had been set up in room. "Welcome, Joachim." He stared at Walter's tall armored form, feeling the cold dark eyes upon him as he stood just beyond the threshold of the door. Walter calmly seated himself in the chair at the head of the table, ushering for Joachim to join him, his dark eyes glinting. "Your food is getting cold. Please, sit down and have a glass of wine."

Joachim reciprocated without complaint. Despite Walter's unpredictability, his lord's calm disposition intrigued him. He floated into the room and seated himself in one of the velvet chairs, his eyes locking with Walter's as the lord politely poured two glasses of wine. Walter placed an elbow on the table and rested his chin in his palm, his ashen skin glistening in the torchlight. "Those swords are unnecessary," he added, fully aware of the youth's distrustful nature. Before he could object, Walter sent his five swords to rest against the furthest wall in the room – deliberately out of reach. "I assure you, I have no intention of harming you. You appear distressed…tell me what troubles you."

"It's none of your business." Joachim folded his arms across his chest as wavelets of his ivory hair rippled around his smooth face. His eyes bore into the red-haired lord's before he looked away, attempting to avoid the creature's penetrating gaze. In spite of his insistence, he could tell that his lie was as transparent as glass.

"I see." Walter replied, though he was undaunted by the young vampire's resistance. "I was hoping we could have an enjoyable evening together. I do not wish to argue with you."

A loud huff was all he gave in reply. It wasn't until he felt the smooth curvatures of Walter's hand touch his chin and tilt his face upward, so that he looked into the other vampire's dark eyes. Despite loathing him, he could not resist his touch. He realized that deep within himself, he wanted Walter to touch him. He hesitated a moment, lost in thought. If his heart still beat, he was certain it would have been pounding against his chest from the intensity in Walter's eyes. Then, before he could stop himself, the hunger within him escaped through his lips in barely a whisper. "I…need you, Walter…"

Why he said it he did not know, except that he remembered the fateful night of their first kiss. Since that moment, he was at the mercy of the vampire's whim, for his heart was unable to forget when he had returned Walter's affections. At times, Walter had been kind and generous toward him, while at others his cruelty and violence paralleled that of his father. Joachim lowered his head in shame, knowing that his desire was, in part, a product of his own self-loathing and loneliness. Nevertheless, the longing in his eyes betrayed his attempt to ignore his feelings for the other man. Walter's eyes widened slightly and his face became serious. The vampire's fine lips formed a slight frown whilst his starlit eyes studied Joachim intently. Then, as though delighted with the white-haired vampire's statement, he replied softly. "It seems you are full of surprises tonight, Joachim."

He was tempted to free his face from his lord's hold but decided against it out of fear of contradicting himself. Nevertheless, Walter's careful gaze was beginning to grate upon his patience. Despite the other lord's gentle touch, he could not resist the opportunity to start another argument. An unforgiving sneer spread across his face when he chided. "Though you may think you know my feelings, I assure you, you do not."

The other lord's hand began to stroke his cheek, his fingers carefully touching the flesh as though it were made of porcelain. "So you think I fail to understand you…" Walter whispered, leaning closer to the young man until Joachim felt his lips nibble playfully at the tip of his ear. "Perhaps, you could enlighten me?" The vampire's thick, blood red hair tickled Joachim's cheeks. For the first time, he was conscious of how close Walter was to him, since their last 'encounter' had occurred when he was hungry and exhausted. Now, his gaze was alert, his eyes focused upon Walter's muscular form. Despite being heavily armored, Joachim could see the sinews of the creature's arms ripple when he moved.

"Perhaps." He replied. However, he knew that the time was not quite right – it was better to bait the other lord for a while to increase his desirability. It was easier to give in to his feelings than to control them. His pale eyes hardened when he shifted away from Walter's touch. "I am no fool. You cannot manipulate me that easily. I thought you wished to speak with me?"

After a moment of silence, Walter's lips curved into a frown as he huffed under his breath. "I see you enjoy testing me, Joachim." The dangerous look in his eyes seemed to hint his temptation to strike him for his cheek. However, determined to maintain his composure, Walter leaned back in his chair and picked up his wine glass. "I love a good challenge." After draining his glass, a low chuckle vibrated through his throat, his eyes looking upon the youth with growing interest. He brushed away a few strands of his fiery hair, revealing the part of face once veiled behind a curtain of red. "Answer me this: what exactly would bring you happiness? I ask you this honestly. By no means am I implying you will receive it. Depending upon what it is, of course…"

Joachim diverted his gaze, his lips curving into a scowl as he hissed. "I want freedom."

The statement caused another long silence to ensue, which was partially filled by Walter when his hand reached for his wine glass. For a moment he kept the glass pressed to his lips, his eyes staring at the pale being seated next to him. "How unsurprising." Joachim noticed the other vampire was torn over whether to take it seriously or to laugh. Then, after noticing the scathing look upon the young man's face, Walter continued firmly. "You are aware that is an impossible wish for me to grant you."

"Damn you, Walter!" In the blink of an eye, he bolted from his chair and levitated upright, his eyes melting the cold ice once preserving his calm state. His hands balled into fists so tight he felt the sharp tips of his fingernails dig into his palms. "I deserve to do as I please! You never watch your other creatures as much as me!"

Walter's hand clenched around his wine glass. "Sit down!" The words penetrated into the depths of his soul, for they were so unusually calm and dark Joachim slumped back down into his chair. After he regained his composure, the red-haired lord ushered to the plates and helped himself to the food. "Such tantrums will get you nothing."

"Vampires don't need to eat." Joachim mumbled back as his lord took a few bites from a loaf of bread. "What is the purpose of this? Eating is so…human, after all."

Walter held out piece of bread to him. "A little variety will do us no harm, Joachim."

Joachim took the bread from his hand and stared at it, noting that it was as fresh as the bread often made especially for him by the Creightel baker. The sight of human food caused memories to flood through his mind. He held the bread closer to his nose so he could take in its delicious scent.

Walter quickly swiped the bottle of wine off the table, replenishing his empty glass.

"Well," The vampire began again after setting the bottle aside. "Since its clear freedom is out of the question, what else do you desire?"

Joachim could no longer prevent himself from flashing an irritated glare, his eyes retuning to their ice crystal state that matched his forceful reply. "Why does it matter to you, anyway? Are you trying to mock me?"

Walter ignored the young man's reluctance. "I am curious to know what it is you desire in your changed state, what your heart longs to have…" his voice trailed away into silence. The sight of the vampire's dark eyes lingering upon him sent Joachim into another state of turmoil. "You are too delicate to be a swordsman."

"It seems your glass is in need of filling, allow me to do you that service." A slight smile crossed Joachim's lips when he picked up the bottle and refilled Walter's glass. His unexpected courtesy prompted the other lord to give him a skeptical look. "I have been ungrateful. I am afraid that a life of privilege has made me rather proud."

"Indeed it has." Walter smirked, though his flattery had an undertone of truthfulness. In the torchlight, Joachim's indigo colored robes and gleaming chest armor made him seem even colder, or perhaps nobler, than usual. The young man's icy blue eyes gazed back at Walter unblinkingly, his fine lips parting from his lord's observation. "Your arrogance is beyond measure." Walter added, his smirk broadening. "Despite your ability to find fault in others, you are blind to your own. Had you not been so determined to prove vampires legendary, perhaps you would have accepted your fate. It is rather ironic that you have become the very thing you tried to deny. It seems…your hunger for control exceeds blood itself."

"That is not all I hunger for." A small, coy grin pressed across the youth's pale lips. Though he was tempted to elaborate, he kept them pressed together, almost teasingly. He noticed Walter's interest in their little game was growing. The red-haired vampire leaned forward, his dark eyes unblinking, attempting to see through him. When the youth revealed no more, he huffed, resting his elbow upon the arm of his chair. One of his gauntlet-covered hands cupped his face as tendrils of fiery hair curtained over his right eye, veiling it from sight. The half-shrouded look made him unreadable. Joachim could only guess at what his lord was thinking during the brief silence that fell between them. A growing curiosity began to build inside him the longer his icy blue eyes clashed against Walter's dark, starlit ones. Barely realizing it, his voice softened, and he was the first to speak. "Walter…do you feel anything?" The red-haired lord blinked at him uncertainly, for the question was rather odd, which prompted him to clarify. "You have existed so long. Everything must be monotonous to you now. Perhaps, someday, you will lose interest in me."

A slow, knowing smile spread across Walter's lips as he replied calmly, his dark eyes flickering in the dim candlelight. "I will never grow bored with you, as long as you do not displease me." He paused, allowing the young man to absorb his meaning. When Joachim said nothing and glanced away, he added carefully. "Even though I have existed for centuries, I still find beauty in the world. I find beauty in you, as well. Our excursion tonight merely proved your worthiness of eternity…and me."

"Yet more compliments," Joachim folded his arms across his chest, his eyes glaring upon the demon. Despite the irritation he attempted to show, he felt his cheeks growing hot and bowed his head, curtaining his face behind the pearly white locks of his hair. "I wonder if you are capable of expressing genuine emotions, Walter. Centuries of life has taught you how to flatter almost anyone-"

Walter's eyes abruptly narrowed. The fine points of his fangs flashed into view as he parted his lips. The vampire's muscular arms tensed as he lifted his head away from his hand. "What I said was genuine, Joachim." His lord's expression had never been more serious until Joachim felt his eyes penetrating into him. He could not discern whether Walter was angry, offended, or simply eager to prove him wrong. Nevertheless, the twinge of frustration within his voice revealed he had struck a nerve. "Never have I lavished so much attention upon someone I turned. Even vampires can feel love, despite misconceptions of our kind as unfeeling, cold-hearted beings." With a graceful flick of the hand, he took another drink from his wine glass and added. "Do you consider yourself romantic?"

Joachim couldn't help but raise his eyebrows at the sudden question. "I never had much fortune in courtship." He placed the opening of the bottle against the rim of the wine glass and filled it so much the liquid skimmed the very brim of it. "Have you ever loved before?" For a moment, their eyes locked wordlessly, and Joachim could not ignore the noticeable flicker reflecting in the other vampire's eyes.

"Perhaps. You could say I am familiar with the meaning of love." The vampire leaned closer. "Eternity has taught me that love, despite its virtues, is damning."

Joachim saw through the glitter of delight in Walter's eyes, and beneath the glassy glazed mirrors beginning to shroud over them the longer they sat together. He reached for the bottle on the table. "Would you care for another glass of wine?" His lips curved into a slight smirk upon noticing that his submissiveness pleased him.

"Yes…more wine would do me good tonight."

"Of course." Joachim waited as Walter drained the last of his wine before lifting up the and refilling his glass. As he poured the claret colored liquid, his pale eyes bore into Walter's, and his voice became soft. "Really,Walter? You want me?" His words flowed from his lips far more easily than he expected. "I did not think you would ever desire a sickly thing like me." Despite taunting the other lord, something inside him urged him to continue playing their little game. He felt his heart quicken when Walter got up and approached him. Before he could get out of his chair, Walter loomed over him, his great frame casting a shadow across the young man's pale figure.

Walter's left hand wrapped around his jaw and raised his head. "I will never forget the night I tasted you. Even in your suffering you were beautiful, the way your body buckled within my grasp…" His whispering drove a wedge of anguish through Joachim's heart, and a loud gasp escaped him upon feeling Walter's left hand skim through the silken locks of his pearly white hair. Though he tried to look away, his pale eyes remained locked upon the demon, transfixed by his grace and beauty. Something about Walter was impossible to resist. Even though he knew he had countless reasons to despise him, his body felt numb and helpless in his presence. Walter's eyes penetrated through him, the dark, starlit optics gazing into his soul as if it were made of glass.

Joachim gasped upon feeling Walter's lips smother him in a luscious kiss. At first, he wanted to shove his lord away, his revulsion nearly overcoming his attraction. When they parted, a cold laugh escaped the youth as he threw his head back, allowing strands of his ivory hair to curtain his face and neck. "I know what you are trying to do, Walter," A slight smirk crossed his lips as he eyed the other vampire playfully, though the look he gave implied something far more serious. Next to Walter, his body was delicate and frail. If the other vampire wanted to, he could crush him in his fist like a bug. Yet, Joachim was determined to bait him again, taking his chances in spite of Walter's growing impatience. The other vampire's eyes glinted dangerously as he waved a hand, hissing under his breath. "Am I merely a toy to you? Something you can play with on a whim like a marionette on a string?"

Walter stared at him for a long time. To his surprise, the red-haired lord grimaced from the accusation. For a moment, Joachim regretted what he had said. Perhaps he had been too harsh. It was in his nature, after all, to criticize Walter whenever it suited him. "Must you always think the worst of me?" Walter whispered, his voice struggling to remain calm despite the air of offence permeating through his confident expression. "It seems you are not the only one who is misunderstood, Joachim. Pity, the world does not revolve around you."

The comment caught Joachim off guard. His pale eyes widened whilst his breath hitched in his chest, unable to respond to his lord's observation. In an attempt to hide his sheepishness, a tiny smirk appeared across his lips until he smiled, revealing the points of his razor-sharp fangs. Joachim ran his tongue across the pointed incisors, moistening his lips like a hungry cat. The provocative gesture was more effective than he expected. Walter's eyes immediately froze upon him as he replied silkily. "If only it did. Then, perhaps, I could have whatever I wanted. I suppose I shall have to cope with living in servitude, one way, or another."

"And what would the 'other' way be?" Walter asked, his eyes glinting. Coils of his lush hair fell around the curves of his elegant face, whilst he leaned closer to the pale youth, his attention completely absorbed by the creature before him. Coyness appeared within his eyes as his lips formed a slight smirk, silently urging his white-haired companion to continue.

Joachim's smirk broadened. He looked up at Walter confidently, feeling his lord's hot breath upon his face. "If you want to know, come closer."

Walter returned the invitation with a knowing smile, his black irises darting to the swords on the other side of the room. The blades had drifted dangerously close to the vampire lord's backside. Knowing he was caught, Joachim swallowed hard, his confident expression wavering. He expected Walter to strike him then, perhaps even to crush his throat in his grip. However, to his amazement, the demon simply leaned back and laughed. The vampire's laughter was audacious and loud, echoing off the walls as he raised his index finger and shook it at him condescendingly. "Ah Joachim," A loud, purposeful sigh parted through his lips. "Did you really think I would be so naive? I sensed what you wanted to do before you even tried. Nevertheless, your efforts to defy me are amusing. At least turning you into a vampire did not break your spirit."

Joachim hissed, his nails grinding into the arms of his chair. He preferred being struck to mocked. No matter how much his mind desired to hurtle his five swords through Walter's chest, the other vampire's powers were greater than his. Walter broke his telekinetic connection to his swords almost instantly, rendering the blades beyond his command. He could not fathom how the vampire managed to do it. Despite his skills, his telekinetic powers were still underdeveloped. The situation seemed all the more unfair in his eyes, since Walter had centuries to perfect powers that he was merely beginning to understand. "I hate you!" Joachim snapped, bearing his fangs at his lord with fierceness not unlike that of an angry wolf.

"I know." Walter's cunning smile broadened.

The resentment within the white-haired vampire's icy eyes intensified. If he could, he would have killed the other vampire without a second thought. However, his lord's calm expression made him doubt his resolve. Walter was just as capable of doing the same – if not more so – than he was. Many times, his lord used his powers to immobilize him and thrash him about like a doll. When he remembered the agony and humiliation, he bit his lower lip and his eyes narrowed, stinging the other vampire with a thousand curses. He wondered why he was not being punished for his defiance. Perhaps, Walter did not think he was worth the effort. Joachim gnashed his teeth, barely able to retain his composure as the other lord remarked in an attempt to berate him. "I was hoping you would be a better dinner companion than this."

"I don't care if I disappoint you." Even if I tried to kill you now, I…do not think I could. I would rather have you – everything you are – for myself. No one on this Earth…loves you more than I. If you need me to prove it to you…I would do anything…for you… Although he was disgusted with himself, his harshness relented. "I suppose it would be unwise for me to kill the one who made me what I am. At least, for now…" A soft smile appeared upon his lips and his pale blue eyes glinted. "I envy you. You could have found a willing companion, someone stronger and more worthy of this life. I was a sick, weak, and hated lord. I can hardly see why you found me appealing."

Walter gave him an empathetic look, his deep voice dying to a low whisper in response. "I have my reasons. The more you resisted me, the more I desired you. That is all you need to know, for now."

"And what if I want to know more?" Joachim asked, eyeing the other lord, his lips parting slightly when their eyes locked. He felt the tension between them growing until at last, Walter broke their gaze.

"You are testing my patience, Joachim. Do not make this unpleasant again."

"That was not my intention." He rose from his chair, his levitating abilities providing him an eye-level view of the other lord that he had lacked when he was human. They were so close to each other that their bodies almost touched. Joachim felt Walter's eyes penetrating into him, trying to discern what he was about to do, or perhaps what he was thinking at that moment. The confident, yet subtly perplexed look upon Walter's face proved that he had failed to come up with an adequate response. Are you unable to understand that I need you, now? I wish that were untrue…

Walter's smile vanished, his dark eyes entranced by Joachim's serious expression and the soft curvatures of his ashen face. "Despite your efforts to subdue me, you shall always be mine, Joachim. Never forget that." His gauntlet-covered hand skimmed through the creature's ashen hair. The young man's hand flew over his lord's hand and grasped onto it tightly. Despite his aggressiveness, Walter fell still, unable or perhaps unwilling to strike him. He did not allow his lord the opportunity to reconsider. Without waiting for consent – and not caring if he received it or not – he smothered the vampire's cold lips with his own. For a moment, Walter seemed too stunned by the gesture to move. His great frame fell still, succumbing to the young man's passion and desire. Joachim's hot, slippery tongue combed the inside of Walter's mouth, delighting in the subtle taste of blood and wine. His hands flew to his lord's beautiful red hair, his fingers raking through the silky locks as Walter pulled him into a gentle embrace. Despite his pale, sickly appearance, he leaned into the other vampire until he succeeded in lowering Walter's impressive form over the floor.

Walter broke their kiss, his dark eyes glittering as he gazed up at the young man's transfixed expression. His lips formed a slight smile whilst his calm, blue eyes surveyed the red-haired lord intently. Everything within him told him to rebuke him and drive him away. I love you…as much as I hate you…and myself. He felt Walter's hands roam to the back of his chest armor, untying the leather trusses securing it one by one. Walter lifted the heavy armor away from his chest, his cold hands parting back his indigo robes, allowing the garment's beautiful fabric to slide away from the pale flesh until it fell upon the floor. The gleaming whiteness of Joachim's naked upper-body made a subtle gasp part through the fine curves of his master's lips. Walter's hand reached up and touched his face. His fingers skimmed across the smooth delicate curves of his cheeks.

Though frail, Joachim's lithesome figure possessed a dignified grace. The contrast between his lord's built frame and his own was telling. The young man resembled the statue of the Greek god, Apollo, his perfection and elegance rivaled only by the red-haired lord whose lips met his in a fervent kiss. Joachim felt the vampire's hot breath lick at his face as wanton desire within him escaladed. It was no longer enough to simply feel Walter's lips against his own. A soft moan parted whilst he pressed himself harder against his lord, demanding gratification. Walter's motions were meticulous, calm, and precise. His eyes, however, remained transfixed upon the white-haired youth. Like a fallen angel casting off its wings, Walter freed himself of his armor, at last exposing his sculpted and naked figure. It was hard to believe frail beauty existed beneath such a cold, metallic shield. Walter's skin was untouched by the ravages of time. Powerful muscles rippled beneath the snow-white flesh, its beauty matched only by its terrifying strength. Coils of shimmering red hair floated against his sculpted shoulder blades like fire. Everything about Walter entranced the youth completely. Joachim could not take his eyes off the other vampire's beautiful, muscular frame, which moved with mesmerizing grace and power. Walter's well-built form was capable of crushing him on a whim, yet now, embraced him tenderly, lovingly, and without regret. Though immensely strong, fragility appeared within Walter's eyes during that moment, as if the youth's power was capable of breaking him into shards.

Joachim's fingertips glided across Walter's chest, memorizing his lord's form as though he were a piece of art. His hands almost trembled; for he could barely withhold his excitement from realizing that something so perfect was his. He stared into Walter's unblinking eyes, feeling his lover's intensity engulfing him like a raging tide. He fled from Walter's face to his neck, caressing the flesh with the soft, cold touch of his lips and the heat of his breath. His lord's chest rose and fell, his breaths hitching when his wandering lips hesitated near his torso. He eyed Walter's lower half, his pale blue irises lingering upon the jutting organ between his legs. Like everything else about his lord, even his most sensitive region allured him. Coils of dark, red hair covered the tender, ashen flesh. His hand slid across, feeling its coarse hair against his fingertips. As a human…I never imagined pleasuring another man, let alone myself. I admit, there were nights when I lay in bed, tormented by the temptation. Sometimes I would give in, though the shame I felt made it impossible for me to climax. Why do you want something that reviled most humans? You find me worthy of you. Of being taken by you…and pleasuring you…as long as you desire.

He pulled Walter closer, tightening his hold around his waist. A gasp escaped his lord's throat when his hand gently touched the erect member. Walter's hardness made his eyes glaze, whilst he delicately traced his index finger over the tip, feeling the slippery wetness of his lord's arousal against his cold, pale fingers. A dull ache began to fill him as he massaged the vulnerable area. For a moment he was uncertain of himself, until the sound of Walter's voice encouraged him. "Do not stop…" his lover's voice was soft, matching rapture of pleasure appearing within his dark eyes. A low hiss escaped Walter's throat as the young man's delicate fingers wound around the shaft and began to pump. His inexperience seemed to amuse his lover, for the guttural vibration within his moans exposed his need for more. Joachim tightened his hold upon the swollen organ, allowing his intuition to guide him, his increasing friction rewarded by euphoric moans. He was determined to drive Walter to the brink. His hand pumped even harder, whilst he lowered his head and combed the tip with his tongue. He could feel Walter's frame buckle beneath him and threaten to break under the escalating pleasure. He refused to relent until at last, Walter gritted his enamels and came, spilling his gratification over his hand. Joachim felt the hot, sticky wetness between his fingers and upon his lips as he released his hold. The young man brought his hand to his face, tasting Walter's seed upon his tongue. The salty sweetness made his eyes widen hungrily.

Despite prompting his lord to ejaculate, he knew their tumble had only just begun.

There were so many things he wanted to do to his lord – though, for the moment, killing him was not among them. A steady smirk crossed his lips whilst he lowered his face and ran his slippery tongue across the smooth, white flesh of his lover's torso. Walter groaned from his touch, his great frame shuddering as the young man's wandering lips kissed every visible part of his body, as if worshipping a god. Joachim ran his hands across his master's powerfully built thighs, relishing in the fact that, for the first time, Walter was at his mercy. "How does it feel?" He breathed against his lover's ashen flesh. Walter's head lifted and fell back, the coils of his crimson hair splaying recklessly against his damp cheeks. Joachim's gaze intensified when his lips touched his lord's muscled shoulder, delicately dancing across the sculpted flesh until settling upon the base of his neck. He felt Walter's body tense, expecting him to bite hard, perhaps even preparing to throw him off if he dared. As if he were touching porcelain, his fangs lightly pierced the skin, careful to avoid causing unnecessary pain.

His body was growing weak, for he had not fed since their last encounter. If he hoped to drink a morsel of his lord's blood, he needed to be cautious and precise. He licked the shallow wound, whilst he lapped up the stream of blood freely flowing into his mouth. Streams flowed across his lord's flawless chest, its bright red color contrasting against the smooth, ice-cold flesh. After a moment, he released his fangs, and gently kissed the wound with his sallow lips. The taste of his lord's blood was intoxicating. Thin red lines streamed down the corners of his lips, whilst he glided his tongue across the wound, attempting to ease his lord's pain.

For a moment, a soft smile played across Walter's lips, until he seized the pale creature, pulling him forward until smothering him with his kiss. The possessiveness in the other lord's kiss irked him. Yet, he could not deny it, no matter how much his soul screamed for him to, for he was at last held. He could feel Walter's intensity, longing, loneliness, and pain during the union of their lips. Nevertheless, when it became too much for him to tolerate, he broke the kiss with a sigh. Curtains of his silky, white hair tumbled against his face when his head lowered, attempting to hide his resentment. Though he was physically weaker, as if he suddenly possessed the strength of a lion, he sat up and pulled Walter against him. Walter smirked and wrapped his muscled arms around Joachim's back in a tender embrace. Whilst he was subdued in his lord's arms, the youth's hand wandered to Walter's buttocks, feeling the soft, curvy flesh until settling across the tight orifice they concealed. Uncertain of whether or not to continue, his body tensed whilst his index finger stroked the circular opening.

Walter's voice was heavy and breathless, encouraging his hesitant companion to persist. "Give yourself to me, Joachim…you need not restrain your desires…whilst we are together. I will deny you nothing in this world, not even the pleasures of my body, for at last you are mine as much as I am yours." The youth hesitated, feeling his cheeks grow suddenly hot, whilst his hand began trembling. With a quiet sigh, he lowered his head, veiling his face behind his pearly white hair. To his relief, Walter was swift to detect his growing anxiety. The sound of his lord's low, gentle voice eased his pale companion's tension. "Do not doubt yourself…" he urged. "It is in fact quite pleasurable, despite the initial pain. Most things between lovers are; you will soon discover…"

Despite Joachim's uncertainty, he gave in to his lord's need when his delicate finger slid inside his lord's entrance. "Yes…" He heard his red-haired lover breathe. "Be gentle…use only one finger…to begin with." The muscles surrounding it tightened around him, though his insides were soft and warm, eager to accept the youth's intruding finger. Walter writhed, his head falling back and spilling his blood-red hair across his broad, muscled shoulders. "More," he heard his lord add, his increasing pleasure making his words almost incoherent. "You…must …add …another…." Joachim felt the other lord's nails dig into his back as his probing finger moved deeper, soon joined by another as he sought to loosen his lord's narrow channel. Fortunately, his fingers were moist from Walter's ejaculation, allowing for a smooth, gentle descent. I was not expecting it to be this…enjoyable…?

It was quite possibly the most erotic thing he had ever done. He heard Walter moan and gasp, watching his lord's organ begin to leak whitish fluid as he continued. "Deeper," his lord rasped, his voice breathless with elation. "Continue…and…do not stop..." Whilst he rubbed the tender area, he pressed his lips upon Walter's shoulder. Ever the opportunist, he knew his lover's ecstasy would permit him another taste of blood. Walter moaned, tightening his hold upon the frail young man whilst his body surrendered to the pleasure of his touch. Joachim rubbed his insides harder, forcing his lover to respond as he pierced his shoulder with his fangs and began suckling upon the flesh like a babe to its mother's breast. He rubbed the area harder and faster, for his lover's rapturous moans confirmed he had discovered the most pleasurable region. Perhaps, I shall make you endure this a little longer…tis' so very easy, now that I know what makes you sing. Let me hear you groan and beg… With a smirk, he continued to stroke his lord's insides, applying various amounts of friction to prolong the experience. His pale eyes glinted as he felt his lord writhe under his touch, succumbing completely as his fingers played him like an instrument. The white-haired youth did not stop drinking until his rubbing fingers unexpectedly drew Walter to a climax. Walter's dark, mysterious eyes widened as he spilled his milky white seed upon the young man. With a gasp, the red-haired lord's heavy frame fell backward against the floor, his chest heaving as beads of perspiration slipped down his face and neck. Joachim had managed to satisfy his hunger just enough before his lord collapsed. Blood trickled down the young man's lips, mouth, and neck whilst he returned his lover's elation with a greedy smile. Joachim laid down beside him and stroked the damp locks of his lover's blood-red hair. A haze seemed to appear within the demon's eyes, as he lay next to his fragile companion, panting and exhausted.

"You learn quickly." Walter breathed with a coy smile.

At least my inexperience amuses you. Despite the interval of rest, he sensed that his lord was not finished. Walter sat up upon his knees behind Joachim, pushing the young man onto his front and covering him with his heavier frame. Joachim felt his lover's cold body against his own, at last eliminating the distance between their blackened hearts and souls. Walter sought to consummate the union between their blood and flesh, like lovers on their wedding night. Walter's icy flesh pressed against him, making his swollen organ ache as his heavy frame covered his smooth backside. Take the last of my innocence away…if that means serving you. Joachim raised himself upon his hands and knees and stared at the floor, not caring if the submissive display increased Walter's power. He felt Walter press his face into his silky white hair, taking in his scent until his cold, velvety lips kissed the sloping curvatures of his neck. The vampire's hand combed through his hair, brushing it aside whilst his lips wandered across his scar. Walter's lips kissed the faded bite mark in an almost tender, and gentle manner, for it was significant to them both. Joachim smiled as he felt his lord's lips trail to his shoulder, kissing and licking his ashen skin, silently adoring the pale creature subdued beneath him. Claim me, Walter, for no one else would. They called me the pale demon…but you call me…beautiful.

Despite the fact the other lord was heavier, the vampire took great care not to injure him. He felt Walter's erection pause near his opening, ready and willing to take him – hard, fast, and even painfully. Joachim withdrew a heavy breath, closing his eyes as he felt the head of his lord's member begin to force its way inside. The demon's great frame pressed harder, so that Joachim had to use most of his strength to support the sheer bulk on top of him. Walter's hips rolled forward – unwilling to yield to the tight orifice until the tender flesh gave way, his fiery passion melting the iciness within his companion's pale eyes as their bodies converged. A low, euphoric moan escaped Joachim's throat upon feeling his lord's organ roughly impale his insides. The pain was so great that he cried out, his nails digging into the marble floor as the merciless, swollen member filled him. Breathless gasps escaped his mouth as Walter began to thrust, his great frame rocking with such force that he cried out. You did not tell me it would hurt this much! Pain filled every fiber of his being until white spots clouded his vision. His entire body tensed until, with a feral snarl, he hissed under his breath. "Damn, you…you….bast-" The youth's pale, widening eyes flitted to his thigh, noticing that streams of dark, red blood flowed freely down the ashen flesh. It frightened him when he saw it, for it was his own. He looked up at Walter's face, his wide eyes boring into his lord's until he felt the intruding organ retreat. The fluid covering the tip of Walter's erection dripped upon his thighs, mingling with the youth's blood and sweat.

Joachim gasped in pain, threatening to crumple beneath his red-haired companion, turned tormentor, as bolts shot through his insides. "Just what the hell is this supposed to feel like?" He gritted his enamels, nearly gnashing them, whilst he struggled to regain his composure.

"Pain is a natural part of this act," Walter breathed, before he sheathed himself inside the trembling creature beneath him once again. "Especially since you are unaccustomed to it. I will teach you …the meaning of true pleasure…"

Joachim's unconvinced scowl was not enough to make his lover ease the force in which he re-entered. At first, Joachim fell still, feeling his lover's rhythmic movements inside his body. Walter's hard, fast rhythm created shockwaves of delight. He moaned again, gasping as his lord's icy flesh slapped against him, the sounds of his lover's breathless groans encouraging him to move. Joachim's pale eyes widened, attempting to break through the pleasure long enough to memorize his lord's rhythm. He tried to speak but the words were caged inside his throat, lost within his heightening moans as he bucked against Walter's heavy frame. Finally, Joachim allowed himself to follow as his lover's thrusts increased. The red-haired lord's member was hard and unrelenting, driving the youth to the brink of his restraint.

A tint of red flickered in his eyes when the Joachim rasped, almost mockingly. "Is that all?"

Joachim looked over his shoulder, his gleaming eyes gazing up at Walter's sweat-streaked face and gaping mouth. For a moment, he wondered if his master would cuff him for his impertinent remark.

Yet, Walter merely smiled, whispering softly. "It seems you are tiring, Joachim…but…if you insist…"

Without waiting for him to speak again, Walter began to thrust, harder and faster to the point that the young man could barely keep his position. The dull ache – the need to be filled, was fading away under the force of his lord's erection. Walter seemed to gain great pleasure out of the act. He felt his lord's hands gasp him by the hips, holding him as he continued to thrust, his red hair flinging around his ashen visage alongside the forward and backward rolling of his hips. Joachim gasped, closing his eyes, whilst he writhed and bucked, eager to meet Walter's pace. As he moved against him, his throat vibrated, unabashedly rasping the sound of his lover's name as if it were music to his ears. Walter…! Excited pants escaped Joachim's lips as he heard his lover respond, speaking his name in a loud, throaty voice, over and over into his ear. Joachim bucked harder, shuddering with pleasure as Walter's hand slid around his hips and grasped his throbbing erection around its shaft, pumping it ravenously. Raptures of pleasure filled the pale youth, his pale blue eyes wide and glazed as Walter's fingers rubbed his vulnerable tip. It did not take long for Joachim to bend to his will until he finally broke, gasping, and panting in gratification beneath his lover's heavy frame. Centuries of experience have made you more resilient than I thought, Walter. As always, you are trying to best me… now, in the most intimate way possible…

The youth lay exhausted upon the cold floor, unable to move, his eyes wide and glazed from the euphoria. He felt his lord's pale, smooth hand slide across his cheek and cup his face. Without hesitating, he turned upon his back and planted a kiss upon Walter's cold, hungry lips until he pressed his chest against his lord's, pushing him down beneath him. Walter's dark eyes widened, tracing his naked form in silent acceptance. He ran his hands across the curves of his lover's arms, feeling powerful muscles rippling beneath flawless, white flesh. Walter merely sighed as the youth slid his hands across his thighs and parted his legs. He wanted to know the forbidden pleasures of love, and to shed the shame it wrought within him. A smile creased the corners of Walter's lips whilst his pale lover straddled himself upon his muscular form. Joachim found himself gazing down into Walter's face, his lush white hair falling untidily against his shoulders and cheeks. The red-haired lord's breath hitched, whilst his hand wandered to his face and caressed his cheek. The moment he felt Walter's fingers slide across his bloodied lips, he nibbled upon them until he caught the delicate flesh between his thumb and index finger. A tint of red flashed through his gleaming optics. He was prepared to give himself in exchange for the warm, satisfying tang of his lord's blood. As gently as he could, he bit down upon the soft, fleshy tissue, his eyes locking upon Walter's pained expression. He wanted to laugh at the sight, for such a powerful devil had finally shown weakness.

Yet, as much as he wished to relish Walter's pain, his hips made a slow motion forward and shattered it like glass. With a subtle gasp, he slid himself inside, exchanging pain for pleasure. Though he did not know exactly how to move, he swiveled his hips forward until he felt his lover shudder beneath him. Rapturous moans fled from Walter's throat as he began to thrust against Joachim a bit harder whilst he moved, feeling Walter's warm insides tightening around him. His inexperience was telling, however, for his pace was slow and uneven. The youth's colorless cheeks tinted a shade of crimson and he withdrew his fangs, watching the blood slide down his lover's bleeding hand. Despite it, he did not withdraw himself, even though a smile threatened to crease the corners of Walter's lips. Without allowing his lord the opportunity, he continued to move, impaling his lord with his swollen member. His red-haired lover moved against him, his heavy frame gracefully dancing with his young lover's gentle rhythm. Though Joachim knew his companion had done the same for others, he was different. Walter needed him and wanted him. The powerful, magnetic force that drew them together had at last united them, body and soul.

Walter gasped and moaned, shuddering under the tender pleasures, for the youth did not need to be forceful in order to obtain gratification. Joachim closed his eyes, biting his lip, feeling his fangs pierce through his own tissue as pleasure encompassed him. Yet again, he began to gasp his lover's name as he rocked against his lord's fervent bucks like a ship upon a tide. Joachim's delicate fingernails grasped Walter by the hips, using his companion's well-built frame to steady his movements. He felt Walter's hand slide down his back, his nails digging gently into his skin. Explosions of pleasure continued to shoot through his body as he quickened his pace, losing himself in the warmth of Walter's insides and the sounds of flesh slapping together as he continued to thrust. Finally, he could withhold the urge no more, and ejaculated inside his lord's bucking frame. Walter cried out, his loud, deep voice filling the entire room as the pale creature collapsed on top of him, heaving from the exertion. Although it was pleasurable, he climaxed earlier than he anticipated. Joachim's eyes narrowed, hating his inexperienced body, which had been unable to make his lord climax along with him. Nevertheless, to his surprise, his lover did not complain. A mutual understanding passed between them as they lay together, panting and exhausted upon the cold marble floor.

Walter's lips covered his in a heavy kiss, whilst his fingers raked through his companion's damp, white hair. "You…have done well…" The red-haired lord purred in his ear as Joachim's pale, trembling form fell next to him on the floor. Despite his exhaustion, he smiled to himself, and was content to lie in his lover's strong embrace.

With a gentle sigh, Joachim buried his face in his lord's neck and whispered in his ear. "Don't ever leave me. I…need you…" The admission frightened him. He could not believe he said it until it was too late. His glassy eyes stared up at his lord's face, waiting for a cruel word or insult to follow.

Walter's hand stroked his hair as a soft smile pressed across his ashen lips. The red-haired lord's dark eyes lingered upon the pale creature beside him as he replied, with an unusual tone of gentleness. "I will never leave you. You belong to me, now, Joachim."

Joachim said nothing in response, except to remain in his lover's arms, his pale eyes burning. Even though Walter's protecting arms comforted him, they were somehow suffocating at the same time. He could not understand why, but the possessiveness in his lord's dark gaze was unbearable. Walter did not only want to love him – he wanted to own him. Everything he was – body and soul. Yet, he smiled to himself in spite of it all, for it felt so very right to lie there, protected and adored. Why must this be so difficult? Tears threatened to build in his eyes as he turned his face away, overcome with both shame and contentment.

This feels so very…right. I belong with you, even though I hate myself for it. You mend my brokenness with your words and your body. Yet, why does something inside me still resist? Perhaps, it is because by giving so much to me, you took just as much away. My heart belonged to someone else, yet you claimed it anyway, like you always do. Human memories mean nothing to you. How can you understand what it means to live when all you know is death? Yes, you understand pleasure, even love, but not life. The only thing I have now is you. Whereas you rule over this castle, this forest, and the night, I own nothing. Tis' so very easy for you, to choose what to give and what to take – and when the time is right for both. Everything is easy for you when you are the one in control. Though I love you, I will surely be damned for it.

And you know it.

While his lord lay sleeping, he broke their embrace and crept toward the tangle of clothes scattered across the floor. He glanced over his shoulder, noting the fact that his lord did not stir. Though you gave me what I wanted, there is something I want even more than you. Centuries of lovemaking with you might have compensated for servitude, but alas…He searched through Walter's armor. Amidst the red steel, black undergarments, boots, and gauntlets, he found what he sought at the bottom of the pile. Joachim picked the Stone up, gazing at its glittering black surface whilst admiring its craftsmanship. He did not leave until he clothed himself, for he was unwilling to sacrifice his pride for the sake of time. Since he could not reach the leather trusses on his armor, he focused his mind and his powers to quickly retie them until they were secure. He stuffed his feet into his boots while checking to ensure that Walter was still asleep. His lover was sprawled across the floor, his arms lazily outstretched as if taking an afternoon nap. Walter's fiery red hair fell untidily around his smooth, ashen face. If only things did not have to be this way… A dark scowl crept across the youth's pale lips as he left the throne room, clutching the Ebony Stone tightly in his fist.

I have served you for the last time, Walter.