Author's Note: After a long absence, I have finally found time to upload another chapter for this story. I apologize for not updating Melancholia for a while. School has been pretty hectic but I have no intention of leaving this story unfinished. Hopefully, this chapter will keep you interested. This is Sara'a first appearance and I plan to flesh out her character a bit more in the next few chapters, though don't expect me to portray her necessarily as a helpless 'damsel in distress' even though she is kind and gentle. If you wondered what happened at Eternal Night while Sara was imprisoned and how I will tie Joachim into the LoI plotline, you will find out, eventually. :)
This chapter contains some sex, violence, and gore (this is an M rated story, after all)
Special Thanks
As always, thank you for reading this story if you are still following it and I really appreciate it when people take time to review my work. I know it is long but I intended it to be the length of a novel in order to develop the plot and characters. Very special thanks go to the people who have reviewed this story and patiently waited for another update. I will try to update a bit faster next time. :D Reviews help me keep this story going since the comments I receive let me know people are still reading it.
Chapter XXVIII
It was not long before he returned to the path beyond the border of the forest. The pale demon floated along it, his robes fanning around him as he went. The last two copulations made his thirst stronger. The full moon was high in the sky and the night was especially cold. His breaths escaped into the crisp air in thick, swirling puffs as his pale eyes searched through the darkness.
Suddenly, a noise startled him and made him hesitate. The creature's eyes drifted to the trees, a twinge of fear reflecting through their glassy pools upon noticing that something was watching him. A gasp fled his lips when a large black bird perched in a tree branch above his head. The bird's tiny dark eyes blinked at him. The pale moonlight reflected off its glossy feathered form as it opened its beak and released a loud, haunting cry.
"No! Impossible!" Joachim cried out and covered his face with his hands, nearly stumbling backward as the bird cocked its head and stared down at him. "Get away from me!" To his growing dismay, the bird's cold, merciless eyes continued to stare at him until he turned to flee. "Get away!" Despite his demand, he could hear it pursing him, its large, black wings blocking out the moonlight and casting an eerie shadow across the road. "Stop! I'm not a monster...!"
Its feathered body quickly landed upon his shoulder, the talon-like grip of its feet digging through his robes and flesh as it cawed in his ear. The pale creature nearly fell during his attempt to swat the beast away with his hand. Yet, the bird's powerful, hard beak snapped and pecked at his fingers until blood covered his hands. "Leave me alone!" He screamed into the darkness as the bird's snapping beak began to attack his face, tearing out his left eye from its socket with a single, swift prod. Blood flowed down his face as his hands flew to protect his other eye whilst pains seared through him like fire. "Leave me alone! I am not a monster, I am not dead!"
The nightscape around him began to spin, distorting his vision as the bird unfurled its wings and flapped against his face. With a feral roar, he regained his composure enough to summon his swords. The five glowing blades lifted away from their alignment behind his back, their metallic steel forms shooting past him to stab at the animal perched on his shoulder. Before the blades could reach it, the bird released a series of loud, unearthly cries and dove into the trees. "You can't escape!" Rage bubbled inside him like a volcano whilst he sent his swords into the trees after it, watching them pursue the fiend's feathered form when it flew amidst the branches and disappeared. "Where are you?" Joachim screamed after it, bearing his fangs as the aura surrounding his levitating body intensified. The creature's pale eyes scanned the trees, desperately trying to locate the feathered brute but finding nothing. Only the silence of the night returned his confrontation. Panting, he pressed his hand upon his wounded eye – and withdrew it to find it completely clean. His fingers raked across his face, feeling for the warm sensation of his own blood and his missing eye. Yet, his vision was uninhibited and his eye was undamaged. What is happening to me? I saw it! I saw that crow, wings of death, fighting to drag me into hell! It was there watching me! Perhaps it still is...toying with me...waiting to feast upon my lifeless body...
But there was nothing. The bird had vanished completely. The pale youth glanced over his shoulder, his wide eyes searching for a sign of the feathered beast whilst his finely tipped ears listened for its cries. There was only silence. More than anything in the world he feared crows. He hated the sight of them, their feathered bodies, obnoxious cries, and scavenging habits. They are waiting to devour me...! I can feel it watching me. The hellish crow...shall not have me, for I am not dead...not dead...not a monster...not inhuman...
The sounds of hoof beats and carts echoed ahead of him up the road, interrupting his whirling thoughts. A tiny smirk flashed across his ashen lips as he dove into the nearby trees for cover. After a few minutes, a large procession of carts, carriages and footmen appeared upon the path. Several serfs hurried along beside the carriages carrying blankets and weapons. The sheer number of them was telling enough that they were escorting someone of great importance, perhaps a cardinal or a lord between domains. Yet, it mattered little to the creature hiding in the trees. Blood was blood, no matter whose it was. There were at least ten serfs and fifteen guards surrounding the carriage and two supply carts. It was common for lords to travel. Some spent so much time as guests in other manors that they rarely saw their own.
Time to play the sickly lord once again. Tis' pathetic how well it works. He lowered his levitation and pretended to limp across the pathway in front of the approaching soldiers. When their eyes fell upon on him, he deliberately allowed his feet to give way until he collapsed onto his side across the dirt. "Who goes there?" One of the guards abruptly motioned for the carriage and carts to halt. The man's metallic armour gleamed in moonlight as he approached, his voice firming at the sight of the pale, blood-covered youth sprawled across the ground. "You there! What are you doing?" The guard withdrew his sword and signalled for the others to follow.
Feigning a grimace, the creature raised his head and held his hand out in front of him as if to shield himself from their weapons. "I am Lord Armster…" he rasped, delighting in the astonishment that flooded across the guard's moustached face when he added. "I was hunting in this forest…when a group of bandits attacked and robbed me…."
"Bandits?" The guard dumbly repeated the word whilst the others remained silent, too shocked by the sight of the bloody nobleman to speak. "The matters in this region are none of our concern, milord."
"How dare you refuse to assist me!" Joachim snarled, his eyes blazing, though with a twinge of delight rather than fury. The gruesome look upon his face was enough to make the soldiers hesitate. A wounded young lord was nothing to scoff at. Refusing to obey one, even though it was not theirs, was capable of instigating political conflict. "Are you all cowards? I require your services!"
"We have none to give!" The guard retorted with a hint of repugnance in his voice. The pale creature was uncertain of whether or not the man suspected him of being dead. Thankfully, the darkness made it difficult for the guard to see him clearly. The only sign of his unnatural condition was his colorless flesh. "We are traveling through this region, milord. Our obligations are to Lady Raynberde."
Its too bad. I thought this would be fun… A scowl swept across the pale youth's face as he glared up at the guard, stabbing him with his dagger-like eyes. The youth forced himself to his feet and lifted his hand, preparing to summon his swords from within the trees until the door of the carriage swung open. A thin young woman stepped out into the darkness. Her long, elaborate dark blue dress swept with her quick, bold steps as she approached the scene, startling the guards with her terse inquiry. "What is the meaning of this?" She placed her hands upon her hips as her fine, ruby painted lips curled into a frown. "Tis' the middle of the night and I am quite tired! I ordered you not to stop-" She was halfway through her lecture when she paused, her dark brown eyes falling upon the pale creature.
"We found this young man lying upon the road," The moustached guard made a point of ushering to the creature as if fearing that the lady, in her anger, would doubt him. "He claims to be of the Armster clan, and informed us that he was attacked by bandits while hunting. I doubt the validity of his story, milady. Let us continue onward and leave him be-"
"Absolutely not!" The woman's sharp eyes scrutinized the pale youth carefully. The sight of his long, beautiful robes and armour indicated his important social position. Joachim looked up at her face, hungrily noting to himself that the young woman standing before him was quite lovely. I am going to enjoy drinking from you, especially. Without hesitating, the woman snapped. "You fool! He is most certainly an Armster. Lord Zaeviean appeared in my court two years ago. I could never forget his unusual ivory hair and skin. This young lord is most certainly his son, for any other could not have inherited such a rare condition." A smile creased the corners of her lips as she turned her attention upon him. Joachim felt her eyes scan him until she dropped her head and made a low, courteous bow. "Lord Armster, please forgive my attendant's ridiculous indiscretion. Are you injured?"
Joachim knew what that smile meant. I am certain you could never forget 'other' things about my father, as well… "I will be all right," he replied, pretending to struggle to stand as he continued. "I am surprised you knew my father, though that matter can wait. Those brutes stole my hunting bow and horse. When I discover who t'was, I shall punish them severely!"
"Tis' dreadful, milord!" The woman exclaimed, shaking her head. "Such Godless men deserve to be hanged! Unlike my attendant, I shall not leave a nobleman at the mercy of thieves and scoundrels. I am travelling northward to the estate of Lord Trantoul, who shall be able to assist you in this matter. Do you know his family?"
"No, I do not, though I am grateful for your assistance." He lied. The name was familiar to him in many ways. His timing could not have been more ideal. It pleased him when he realized he could enjoy a meal before kidnapping the lady chosen by fate. He suspected the procession was due in part to the fact that the lord's betrothed daughter would marry within a week. It seems, Lord Trantoul will be short a few guests at the wedding…and a bride as well…
The woman motioned for the soldiers to escort him into the carriage, her eyes giving an extra sharp glance at the moustached solider that had refused to aid him. "Lord Armster shall accompany me in my carriage."
"But, milady-" The guard attempted to interject, however the woman's insistence made him fall silent.
"You will do as I say!" She snapped, ruffling the long skirt of her dress as one of her attendants took her hand and helped her into the carriage. "Insolent fool, do not question me again."
For whatever reason, the pale demon could not help but admire her resolve. Tis' almost a shame I have to kill such a presumptuous lady. Though I know her kind, for my father rather enjoyed her type in his bedchambers. Perhaps, I shall receive a little more than blood, tonight…
The youth brushed aside a few strands of his silky ivory hair whilst he limped toward the carriage, barely managing to stand since walking was no longer a regular habit. The moment the moustached guard attempted to grasp him by the arm to assist him, he violently shoved the man away and hissed like an angry serpent. "Don't ever touch me, wretch!" The guard bowed his head, attempting to apologize as the pale moved by him without a backward glance. I will deal with you, later. He allowed one of the woman's servants to hold the carriage door for him as he climbed inside, making a show of his injured state by gasping for breath.
To his delight, the lady seated inside the carriage got up and took him by the arm, allowing him to sit next to her as she drew the privacy curtains across the carriage's windows. "Are you certain you are all right, Lord Armster?" She asked, her brown eyes blinking at him in the dark compartment. The benches were lined with expensive blue velvet only someone with immense wealth could afford.
With a gentle, though somewhat chilling smile, the youth nodded and crossed his legs. The loftiness he displayed seemed to ease her concern, for she returned his smile as he replied coolly. "I am fine, now that I am in the presence of respectable company, such as yourself, lady…?" Though he knew he was capable of killing her any time he wanted, he was interested in seeing just how 'respectable' the woman truly was. In another life, which seemed so distant, he remembered mingling with women of her class. Parties…tapestries…delicacies…despite their familiarity, such things were trivial to him, now.
The woman bowed her head, her voice filling with confidence when she answered his question. "I am Lady Gertrude Raynberde. Pleased to make your acquaintance, Lord…?"
"Joachim. Joachim Armster." His pale blue eyes glinted with relief when his name rolled smoothly off his tongue.
He noticed the woman's eyes widen in response whilst she leaned back in her seat. At that moment, he took a bit of time to observe her. The woman's long, auburn hair was secured into an elaborate bun held in place by several gold pins. Her face was thin, and her skin pale, a typical fashion for most women of her class. The woman had most certainly never worked a day in her life, for her hands were soft and free of calluses and scars. The long, shimmering fabric of her dark blue dress fanned around her like waves in a sea. Though beautiful, there was a kind of deadliness in her mannerisms, not unlike a python ready to lash out at any moment – though restricting her bite to other ladies of similar calibre. A gossip, undoubtedly, though the most dangerous kind. She was a woman who preferred to light the match and allow another to use it to start a fire. Without the slightest hesitation, she began. "I knew your father. Lord Armster was quite possibly the most fearsome man I have ever met. If his eyes could kill, no heathen would be left alive, and the church would have made him a Saint!"
"It seems everyone knew my father." Joachim muttered under his breath. It did not surprise him to realize that the man's memory followed him like a plague.
"Of course they did." She exclaimed, her eyes brightening the longer they admired at his pale face and ashen hair. "I believe Lord Armster's fighting abilities saved him from the pyre. The church does not take kindly to men with white hair and pale skin. Your resemblance to your father is astonishing."
"I wish that were not so." He nearly snarled, though managed to hold his tone of politeness whilst he elaborated quickly. "I inherited all of my father's assets and land recently, though I regret, I have not yet decided what shall be done with them."
"Perhaps your wife can advise you?" The woman raised an eyebrow.
"I am unmarried." Joachim replied, ensuring that there was a twinge of sadness present in his voice. Like a fisherman casting his net, he watched the woman's eyes widen.
The smile pressed across her ruby lips broadened whilst she slid closer to him, looking up at him with a regretful sigh, which he knew she had practiced. "Tis' a shame. Do you not get lonely, Lord Joachim Armster?"
As if surprised by her question, he shook his head uncertainly, feeling her hand cover his while the words dripped off his lips. "Occasionally, though I am afraid my appearance has made finding a wife quite difficult. I inherited my father's albinism and am chronically ill."
"How tragic, milord." He noticed her move closer to him, unconcerned by the fact that his hand was cold and his skin was as white as snow. The youth's gleaming eyes watched her hand lift and gently touch his cheek, her face reddening from her bold gesture. When he did not pull away she looked at him directly in the eyes. Despite his air of indifference, he could hear her heartbeat quickening and detected the blood in her veins flowing faster beneath her skin when she touched him. The warmth of her hand contrasted with his icy eyes and flesh. Nevertheless, unhindered by it, she continued quietly. "Tis' a long journey to Brendelham. Perhaps, you will be bored. All conversations between lords and ladies are the same, after a time. The same petty introductions, wit, and candour – though enjoyable it is hardly sustaining, Lord Armster."
"What an interesting sentiment." He replied, half interested and half bored. She must have used the same clever line several times before, for her ease in speaking it was revealing. Despite the luxurious benches adorning the inside of the carriage, the cramped quarters merely enhanced his hunger. With a proud flick of his hand, he allowed his lips to form a smirk. "Though tis' late, I am not tired."
"Whatever shall we do, then?" The lady returned his smirk. He felt her draw nearer to him still, until her face was within inches of his. The woman's regal visage was smooth and graceful, her ruby lips like the petals of a rose, and her voice like a soft wind in his ear. "Your father was a very skilled man...with many talents. I wonder if you are like him in that aspect, Lord Armster. I would not mind discovering if my intuition is correct."
"If you want to know, come closer." The pale creature placed his arms on either side of her shoulders while turning to face her. Curtains of pearly white locks cascaded against his smooth, elegant visage as he pressed himself against her and covered her lips with his own. The woman attempted to gasp in surprise, though it was lost in the powerful, forceful touch of his lips. The youth's claw-like fingernails raked through her auburn hair, loosening the pins until it tumbled across her sloping neck and shoulder blades. He wound his tongue into her mouth, tasting her depths before he broke their kiss. The woman's brown eyes were wide, her moist lips parting as he lowered his face to her neck and kissed the warm, tender flesh.
He felt her pulse thumping rapidly against his cold, sallow lips as she let out a soft, appreciative moan. "We…do not have much time, milord. Let us not be discovered."
"I understand, milady." He smiled at her again, knowing her wish would be granted far sooner than she expected. In accordance with her whim, he grasped the flowing, blue skirt of her dress and hiked it up to her hips, exposing her undergarments as she lifted her legs and allowed him to remove them. His hands snaked across the woman's warm, curving thighs and hips, feeling the life he was prepared to drain away. As his icy hands explored her legs, she grasped his britches and slid them down to his ankles. How I love playing with my food! This one definitely cares not for lady-like expectations. If it is this easy to obtain her, tis' no wonder why my father chose her company. Joachim's lips returned to steal another kiss as his fingers wandered to her entrance, feeling the slippery wetness of her arousal. Whilst her lips locked with his, he buried his fingers inside her opening, taking little consideration if his nails caught and ripped the tender flesh. Any pain she may have experienced disappeared as he began to rub her soft moist warmth, listening to her gasp and moan in his ear while he pleasured her. The moment he discovered her sweet spot, he pressed his hand across her mouth to stifle her moans. He was not gentle with her, for he felt no need to be, as she would soon experience even worse pain.
After subduing her with his fingers, he straddled himself above her, pressing her into the carriage's narrow seat. The woman's hand glided to his erection, about to massage it until he lifted her hips and felt her legs wrap around his lower back. Although the long, flowing fabric of her skirt threatened to inhibit him, he pushed it back as the hard, throbbing organ between his legs found her entrance. The woman's head fell back, her auburn hair cascading across her shoulders and back. Her flowing dress prevented him from seeing himself enter her, though he knew he had when warmth of her body stretched to accommodate his embedded organ. A gasp escaped through the woman's ruby lips, which for a moment, resembled the color of blood as he moved his hips forward and back in a rocking motion. The jostling carriage did not inhibit his actions in the least, though he kept his hand across her mouth to stifle her moans as he began to thrust. There was no tenderness when he took her, despite the soft, ferventness of her lips when she kissed him. The young nobleman barely let out a gasp of pleasure as he pounded against her with his frail, ashen body, feeling a deadness consume him when he could not climax. The woman seemed to suspect it, for the youth's hard, fast, rhythm lasted for nearly half an hour without relenting. Beads of perspiration slid down the side of the lady's face, matting her auburn hair and tinting her fair cheeks a rosy pink. Though she was tiring, he continued to thrust himself inside her rapidly, barely conscious of the force in which he moved until he saw her wince in pain. "You're…hurting me…!" She gasped, though her words were muffled beneath his hand.
Without looking at her, he slid his lips across her chest until he listened to her heart pounding against her ribcage. The creature lifted his face away and parted his lips, allowing her to glimpse at his gleaming fangs as he continued to grind against her, thrusting forcefully until streams of blood begin trickling down her legs. The woman's eyes pooled with tears as her voice fought through the sounds of his panting and gasping breaths. "What…are you? Stop…!" Joachim felt her writhe beneath him as her hands pushed against his armored chest, unsuccessfully attempting to knock him away. However, his superior strength and power easily overcame her. With a sardonic smirk, he pushed his offending organ deeper inside her. The fierce, unbridled force of his thrusts increased until her hand lifted to strike him across the face. He caught her wrist in his hand and snapped it like a twig, hearing the bones crack and give way under his vice-like grip. The woman's eyes widened into saucers, her voice stolen away when he replaced her pleasure with agony. The creature's nails dug into her hips until they bled, his eyes glazing with delight as he thrust inside her without care.
His mind was in haze from which he could not find an escape, for nothing was clear to him except the blood rushing beneath the woman's fair flesh. The pale creature continued to impale her as he lowered his face to her neck, pressing his lips upon it, and ignoring her tossing head as she sought to free herself from his entrapment. With a feral snarl, his merciless fangs punctured through her flesh, rewarding his effort with blood. The crimson liquid flowed from the wound with terrifying ease until lapped it up like a savage beast. A red tint appeared within his once pale blue eyes while her blood gushed down his throat. The sensation of it made him gasp as the euphoria it created within his pale, thrusting body finally drove him to a climax. Loud, rapturous moans fled his throat, gurgled slightly by blood as he ejaculated and suffocated her against his cold, lifeless body. The woman's form fell limp beneath him when he slid out. Only when he noticed that her eyes were glassy and still did he realize she was dead. I hope killing them during the act will not become habitual….
With a huff, he grabbed his britches and pulled them up, casting his eyes away from the woman's lifeless form. The jostling carriage halted - alerted by the noise and scuffling within it. Within moments, a guard flung the door open, his face a mask of horror at the sight of the woman's shriveled, half-naked corpse slumped against the seat. "Dear God!" The guard's hand flew to unsheathe his sword. Yet, the vampire he discovered was much faster by far. Joachim's claw-like hand quickly snatched the man by the throat and pulled him inside the compartment.
"Good evening!" Loud, unbridled laughter escaped his throat as he pulled the guard toward him and ripped off his helmet. "It was kind of the lady to give me ride, though unfortunately, she could not make it all the way."
"You vicious bastard!" The guard rasped, in spite of the youth's talon-like grip upon his throat.
"Shut up!" The creature hissed, knowing his time was running out. Footsteps sounded across the road, followed by shouts and screams of alarm. Blood trickled down the corners of his lips as he dragged the man's neck forward and bit down upon the flesh. Streams of blood flowed down his throat but he knew he could not feed for long. After only a moment, he withdrew his fangs and dropped the dead guard on the bench next to the woman. The fact the corpses were sitting upright made it appear as if the guard had fallen asleep against the woman next to him. The sight made Joachim burst into laughter, whilst his eyes wildly flew to the carriage door, seeking an escape. With the speed of a falcon, he swept out of the compartment and emerged into the darkness beyond. The moment his pale, bloody form appeared in full view, serfs, servants, and guards ran in all directions. In an effort to defend himself, he summoned his swords from within the trees, for they had been following the carriage under the power of his mind. The sheer number of people made a solo assault difficult. He concentrated his powers and began to let them build. Two guards lunged at him, brandishing their swords, ready to cut his head off until he ducked to avoid their swinging blades. He snatched one of the guards with his hand, burying his fangs into his jugular and, with a snarl, ripped out the man's esophagus. Blood poured down his face, neck, and chest armor as he carelessly tossed the body away.
Blood dripped down his chin whilst Joachim focused his thoughts, feeling his power strengthen and form around him into circular shapes. With a swift wave of his hand, he sent the three glowing blue spheres across the pathway far apart from each other. Then, to his growing amazement, his five, whirling swords reunited with him and floated slowly around his body – shielding him behind an invisible barrier. It was his only means of defense against so many humans. Guards ran toward him to attack, swinging their swords, until the metallic edge of the blades bounced off his telekinetic shield. "Humans!" He sneered, and his eyes narrowed in disgust. His mind was focused to the point that he only had to picture how to attack. The thoughtless, rage inside him had a will to stab his assailants to death. In accordance, massive glowing yellow blades suddenly projected upward from the ground, stabbing some of the guards so suddenly they did not realize what happened before they died. The merciless blades sliced through three men and severed them completely in half. Their remains crumpled to the ground in a spray of blood, barely even recognizable amidst the sight of entrails and bone. Intestines lay over the dirt like tangled ropes. The stench of blood almost overpowered him as he floated through the scene of death.
Most humans tried to flee and hide. Even the remaining guards turned away and sought to escape the glowing yellow blades projecting erratically from the ground. A few humans attempted to hide themselves in the supply carts, hoping the pale demon would not notice them. He drifted toward the doors of the first cart he came across and flung it open with the violence of a devil, his voice calling to them mockingly. "You can't hide from me, lowly humans. Come out, come out, wherever you are! I look forward to stabbing your pathetic bodies to death…!" As he expected, most remained in their hiding places like rats trapped in a cage. Many serfs tried hiding behind wine casks and barrels stacked upon each other in the cart. Without hesitating, he eyed the wooden objects and sent his blades forth. Find them, and kill them! Kill every single one of them! The blades stabbed through the barrels, impaling the humans hiding behind them through their chests and heads. The wooden barrels gave way when the swords rammed completely through. Blood pooled around the base, mixing with the wine until neither were distinguishable. When his swords removed themselves and returned to their slow, casual encirclement around him, at least ten bodies fell into a mangled heap behind the broken casks.
Carnage surrounded him everywhere he looked. Blood flowed across the pathway in rivers, for no one had escaped the powerful, cruel edge of his swords. The only things he left alive were the horses still secured to their carriages and carts, until he broke their fastenings and watched them gallop madly into the trees. Adrenaline pumped through him like bolts of lighting as he hovered, surveying the bloody scene with his unblinking, icy gaze. Bodies were strewn everywhere to the point that the path beneath them was barely visible amidst their blood and remains. The full moon haunting the night sky above made the pools of crimson shine under its sad, pale light. With a contented sigh, he broke his concentration and watched as the three glowing blue orbs dissipated into nothing. Although he still craved blood, there was no one left to fight or kill. The youth gave a last repugnant sneer before he turned away and blew a whistling song into the air. The sound drifted across the lonely nightscape, echoing far into the distance like a demon's serenade.
In response, a faint, whinny cry echoed through the enclosing darkness. Within moments, the glowing form of his silver stallion bounded through the trees, its transparent body solidifying under the touch of its master's blood-covered hand upon its back. "Cojiro." The equine raised its head upon hearing its master speak its name, catching the scent of blood upon his breath. The beast's dainty ears flattened upon its head as Joachim mounted its back. He was still adjusting to the fact that his horse was a vampire. It seemed absurd, yet his gaze caught sight of the beast's pointed fangs. Despite the animal's innocent appearance, if anyone tried approaching it, their throats would be torn out by its gnashing incisors. A strange white film covered the horse's once black eyes. The ironclad silver heels of his boots urged it into a gallop. Its hooves flew across the ground as it galloped down the road and carried him toward a small settlement of houses in the distance. The night wind whipped at his face, lashing against his ashen cheeks as the once wet blood covering him began to cake and dry.
In the middle of small, rundown homes, was a manor so large it rivaled his own. The manor was constructed from stone and donned with numerous large windows, the largest of which surrounded the top floor to reveal the structure's great hall. A wide rounded archway lined the entrance to the large building, and the greenery of ivy grew up the length of the building's walls and window frames. He guided his horse toward the back of the manor and hid himself in the trees.
The young woman belonged to a wealthy family. Indeed, it did not take him much to realize it, for the manor was grand in design. If he wanted to, he could have broken the fine wooden doors securing the entrance and killed any humans he encountered. Far too many times, he had pillaged and murdered anyone in his way. A quiet seizure was necessary, despite his thirst for blood. The more attention he drew to himself, the greater danger he created for his master. Dalwood and Creightel had already fallen. If a third cleansing occurred, it was only a matter of time before the Church got involved.
On the second level of the manor was a large, round balcony. The balcony was constructed from the finest marble. Beyond its elaborate railing was a large doorframe covered with thin, white curtains. The shadow was of a young woman, and despite the wary shame in his gaze, he witnessed her naked silhouette moving within. Joachim's gaze darted toward the vague image of her slender form for brief intervals, gazing at the supple inviting curvatures of her breasts while she changed her attire. It's too bad I have to keep her alive. Betrothed to a knight! A virgin, to be sure, for a husband of such caliber would expect no less.
Within a moment, the young creature of interest emerged into view. The young woman approached the balcony and stood there for his eyes to feast upon, and not even the shadows of the night could conceal her delicate form and the gentle smile upon her lips. Locks the color of deep chocolate brown fell against her shoulders, part of her hair was styled up to form small ornate buns on either side of her head, kept in place with fine pearls wrapping them in their circular shapes. The woman wore clothing so fine he could tell it was custom made, for covering her was a beautiful light blue vest trimmed with white down the middle and along the collar, which complimented the fine ebony buttons securing it. Beneath the vest she wore a dress that hid her modest feet from view beneath a sea of ripping snow white. Light sky blue ribbon matching the color of her vest formed a crisscrossing design down the sleeves of her dress, and as if to complete it, a gold circlet encrusted with rubies adorned her forehead.
She was the angelical, and unearthly innocence his tainted soul aspired to obtain. By all accounts she appeared incapable of harming even the smallest creature on earth, and as gentle as a fawn still exploring the world with an innocent and new outlook on the virtues of life. Joachim watched her stand near the railing of the balcony and survey the nightscape. She whirled at the sound of a voice calling to her from the other side of the curtained door.
"Lady Sara! It well passed the hour of which a lady should be resting. I have laid your garments out for the next morn, do you wish to see them now?" The voice sounded so familiar he froze from the tone the second it filled his ears. He stepped forward within the trees until the young maiden's reply was made. Her voice sounded so sweet it would have rivaled even that of sirens, enchanting him to the point that he fell completely still.
"I am grateful; however, I wish to look at the stars for a few more moments. I would be pleased if you joined me."
"As you wish, milady."
Before Joachim could collect his thoughts, the face that matched the voice emerged into view and stepped behind the young lady's frame. He stared without a word to meet his whirling thoughts, which increased from listening to the sound of the young lady's voice. "Tis' such a pleasant evening. Why, it invokes much thought in what God created in this universe. Perhaps Isis sailed through the sky on a starry night like this, for if the Egyptians believe their Gods were capable, I wonder if Jesus could have done so as well."
He noted the curious tone within her sweetness, as he did both the appearance and the sound of the woman standing at her side. The woman was older, at least middle aged, with thick carrot colored hair tied back in a long elegant braid, and wore a simple, gray dress compared to the young maiden.
Her voice was soft, and nothing in the world could mistaken her as he remembered from his past. "Of course Jesus sailed through the stars, our lord is capable of infinite abilities – if he could walk on water then nothing was out of his reach." A soft smile met her reply while she continued to address the young lady dotingly.
"I am afraid that may not be so." The sweet voice of the lady Sara had quickly fallen into a slight damper that left Joachim even more stunned than he was since he arrived. He watched the maiden turn, and noticed her gentle smile feigned. "If God gave me the gift of choice, I am still awaiting an answer to why I feel I have none. It is too soon, Anneliese. I have my doubts regarding my union with Leon. I have only spoken with him three times, and already I am to become his wife." Her frame seemed to strain with her doubt, though the servant woman rested a hand on her shoulder in reassurance, while the other stroked the fine contours of the lady's cheeks like a mother comforting a lost child.
"My lady," the servant replied. "Believe in him for he is an honorable young man and an ideal suitor."
"Yes, indeed he is. My father insists I comply with his wishes, especially since nothing would give me reason to doubt the Baron." She gave a soft sigh that barely parted from her dainty lips, and her eyes closed to linger upon her words. "…I must appease my father, for he has been good to me, and it is clear I must not disappoint him by refusing a man worthy of my hand."
"My lady, you shall never disappoint anyone. I have known you since you were a child. I was able to watch you become a fine young lady. It makes me wonder what became of the one whom I raised before you. Ah, he must have faced much in his life without me…" the servant's voice trailed, and made Joachim intake a deep breath despite not needing to. His memory became clear regarding whom she spoke of, and he was all too familiar with the servant separated from him before he could fulfill her wonderment. At least fate had been somewhat kind to her, and to find her at that particular estate when she could have been sent to numerous other ones was more than he expected to discover.
"What do you mean?" The young lady's inquisitive tone heightened from her servant's cryptic words. "Tell me, Anneliese, for you have rarely spoken of your previous household."
The servant gave a weak smile. "Well milady, it has been ten years since I laid eyes upon the child. Though he was an ill boy, he was much stronger than even he imagined possible."
Joachim's eyes were locked on her expression, which remained fixated in a sort of saddened gaze directed outward into the night. Her appearance was so pensive he felt like she was looking in his direction as if knowing he was listening; however such a notion was one created by wishful thinking.
"I am grateful for all you have done during your services here, and I assure you I think highly of you despite my mother's criticisms. No matter what the circumstance, I shall persevere. Perhaps I do not have much faith in marriage." The young woman continued to smile, and it broadened the moment the servant gave another affectionate stroke over her cheek.
"Lady Sara, you are wise."
"You flatter me too much." Her delicate reply lightened once again while the servant turned toward the door and brushed back the curtains. The young maiden paused as if to accompany the servant, though added in a softer voice he could barely hear from where he stood. "Today I received a letter from Baron Belmont. Leon has vowed to come for me as soon as he can; however, he is currently on his way to visit Lord Cronqvist, who lost his wife only a year ago."
She paused for a moment, and appeared to be collecting her thoughts in watch of the servant's brief departure inside, but not without continuing in a more serious tone that still retained the unmistakable sweetness in her voice. "Lord Cronqvist is a respectable man but he is unwell. Baron Belmont informed me in his letter that he is concerned. Though, it would be unreasonable of me to delay the wedding. I know Leon needs me now, more than ever…"
The servant appeared once again from within the curtains carrying a beautiful long white wedding gown that trailed well onto the floor and was lined with gold fabric around the low scooping collar and delicate puffed white sleeves that were so subtly created they did not overwhelm the garment itself. "What do you think of your wedding dress, milady? Have you grown fond of it yet?"
The young woman turned away and gazed out into the night in silence. She closed the delicate lids of her eyes and revealed the thick but fine darkness of her eyelashes. For a moment, she remained as still as a porcelain doll, until her eyes glanced passively at the flowing white dress. "It is beautiful." The woman's lips trembled whilst she turned her head away, her sleek brown hair rippling against her delicate cheeks. A gentle sigh parted through her lips as a dim, though visible, sadness reflected within her eyes.
"For your wedding day, I will make you a wreath of red carnations and have a priest bless them.
If you do not have love, at least retain your hope and faith in God."
"I shall always have love, not just for the man I marry, but for all people no matter what their status is. The world must always have love above every other virtue, even that of purity, for without love life is meaningless. Perhaps my feelings for Leon will grow in time. I know the Baron loves me dearly. Since the day we met, he spoke of how much he appreciated my company. I understand, for he has fought bravely and endured death and hardship. Leon was swift to ask my father for my hand; for he told me he wished to spend his life with none other than the woman dearest to his heart. War has not destroyed Leon's kind and selfless heart. Marrying him…is the least I can do after he gave me his love and devotion. I…apologize for burdening you with my childishness and uncertainties, Anneliese…" The soft smile once again spread across her graceful ruby lips, and her eyes darted away from the night to linger upon the doorframe. The servant disappeared inside, however before she moved to follow she hesitated in place and stood still once again, lowering her head so the two fine strands of her chocolate colored locks curtained around her cheeks in a rippling array. Joachim watched her unblinkingly until she parted back the curtains and disappeared within.
He levitated forward to leave his hiding place in the trees but paused to press a hand against his chin. The youthful curvatures of his face darkened whilst he floated in solitude, brooding within himself and engraining the image of the lady within his mind's eye. Even if he attempted to erase it from his thoughts, he could not cease picturing her gentle smile. The silver lining his armor shimmered under the moonlight, and with his purple aura it was clear the time he spent in concealment would be limited before someone was bound to notice his presence on the grounds of the estate. Such an innocent little lamb, perfect for slaughter. My master shall enjoy spoiling this one. Unless, of course, I take her first. I bet I could make her moan louder than Walter…
He slinked out of the trees and drifted toward the large manor. When he reached building's wall he hid himself between the large windows lining the base of the structure directly below the balcony. Joachim tilted his head and looked upward toward the night sky. Within moments, his pale eyes locked upon the growth of ivy climbing high up the wall beside him.
A steady smirk wielded its way across his dried lips, and with yet another soft swish he flew toward the ivy and began his ascent. The architecture of the manor appeared hundreds of years old, and the ivy growing up its walls appeared similar in age. With slow motions, his hands gripped onto the various ivy branches that he used as support for climbing higher. The branches were thick enough that they supported what little weight he provided, since even as he climbed, he barely let his weight sit atop the foliage. Once he was within a foot from the railing he let go of the ivy, and when it appeared he would tumble down to a horrid fate, he doubled his inner power to send himself hurtling overtop the railing. He made not a sound when he descended onto the cold marble surface. He reached out and ran his hand lightly across, his long claw-like black fingernails dancing across the fluttering fabric curtaining the doorway. With the full moon as his backdrop, his silhouette darkened the pure, white veils concealing the lady's chamber.
The room was no less elaborate than the house itself, with numerous fine furnishings and paintings upon the walls. His main focus was at the opposite side of the room where the bed was situated, as well as the young woman laying upon it as she slept beneath the covers with an open book draped across her lap. A small candle burned on the nightstand and flickered a dim orangey glow, casting strange shadows across the walls. Joachim paused to gaze at her sleeping figure, her chest rising and falling to create an effortless motion with every exhale. She appeared unreachable and distant, though he did not realize just how close he was to her until he glided higher above the floor and drew nearer to her.
He floated above her in the air, moving sideways until he was parallel above her and could look down upon her sleeping figure. As he stared down at her, his posture looked no different than it would if he were standing upright. Joachim received the most ideal view from the position he remained in, and his gazing orbs never dared to blink out of fear she would vanish. The loveliness of the young maiden was almost beyond his comprehension. His eyes darted to the candle interrupting the darkness. He wished to see her enveloped in the moon's glowing light flooding through the drawn curtains, and with a glance upon it from his flickering red irises, the wick of the candle curled inward and the tiny flame extinguished. A small stream of smoke floated into the air, its scent mixing with the perfume.
He narrowed the gap between himself and his mortal of interest, and glided his body closer over the bedspread. His narrowed eyes remained locked upon her, and the scent of her perfume amplified the moment his face drew close - so close he felt the soft huff of her sweet breath skim across his cheeks. The young vampire's flowing white hair curtained around his face when he drew nearer to her. His eyes focused away from the soft relaxed expression she wore to probe the collar of her vest that tantalized his interest. The creature's delicate hand extended until his sharp fingernails touched the soft fabric buttoning the high collar in place. His fingers toyed with one of the buttons briefly, their sharp points prying the first button away and uncovering a portion of flesh. For a moment, he hesitated and gazed at her face. The lady's serene expression remained unchanged. Once he was certain she was still asleep, he pried away the next button down from the first, slowly revealing more of her fair skin, which was the color of milk in the moonlight. He focused upon the majestic curvatures of her neck and collarbone, whilst he lowered his lips over the tender flesh, parting them to expose his fangs.
Although her sloping neck enticed him, he clamped his mouth shut and touched the most tender region with his index finger, feeling the calm rhythm of her pulse thumping against his cold skin. A rush of crimson red flowed when his nail broke through the skin as if it were paper. The liquid was rich and thick like cream, tantalizing him with its scent. The corners of his lips formed a smirk whilst he pressed his finger upon his thirsting tongue. Her blood was sweeter than anything he had tasted before, for it was the blood of a virgin - innocent, pure, divine, and ready for the taking. After pausing to absorb its taste, he leaned over her and unbuttoned the rest of her vest. His cold, delicate hands gently parted the fabric, taking in the sight of her smooth, contoured breasts veiled under her slip.
He watched her eyes slowly flutter open. The lady's deep, glistening pools froze upon him. A short gasp parted from her dainty lips, and as if thinking to be in a nightmare, she blinked several times and stiffened beneath him. For the first time, he looked into her glittering sapphire eyes. Her hand flew to the fresh cut made on the side of her neck and clamped across it as her trembling lips fought to speak. "Who are you?" She gasped and clutched her hand tighter over her neck.
The creature's pale optics followed the steam of blood trickling down her collarbone. Despite the fear emanating from her, she dare not move. "You must be the Lady Sara Trantoul. My master is looking forward to meeting you. Apparently, you are a lady to die for."
Before she could open her mouth to scream, he covered it with his cold, white hand. She attempted to struggle and clawed at his armor in an attempt to push him away. With a low, mocking chuckle, he lowered himself against her, pressing her frail form into the mattress. Though she tried to kick him, his superior power and strength subdued her with little effort. Her struggles merely made him press harder against her and his grip over her mouth tighten. "I want to know why the Baron loves you so," he whispered into her ear, before pressing his lips against her neck. "I am surprised he was willing to restrain himself until the wedding night. It would be a shame if he discovered his bride deflowered…would it not?" He snaked his tongue across her neck as she writhed against his touch. How he loved it when they struggled! It took great effort for him to avoid laughing. He settled himself against her, whilst his free hand slid up her dress and forced her legs apart. His claw-like fingernails dug into her thigh, nearly hard enough to make her bleed; until he remembered she was to be unharmed. An aching hardness pressed against his britches that urged him to take the gentle creature. He felt her teeth clamp onto his finger and bite down. Blood trailed across his palm. The red liquid slid down to his wrist and dripped upon her chest, staining her porcelain flesh red. Though she bit hard, it was nothing compared to his if he punctured her with his fangs. The pale demon barely even felt the pain. His aching hardness, the warmth of her body, and the scent of her blood overcame everything else. He pressed himself against her as his hand returned to his britches and began to slide them down. Keep struggling, little lamb. Once I break your veil of chastity, I am certain your betrothed will love you no more. You are mine, now.
The lady reminded him of someone he knew… but whose memory he suppressed. Vivid green eyes filtered through his thoughts. Completely different from the chestnut-haired woman struggling against him, yet the bright, gentleness within them was the same. For a moment, he considered pulling away when he pictured her face. Catherine? He remembered the coarse touch of her blood-soaked hair…her cold, pale skin…and felt a tiny voice inside his heard cry out for mercy. Somewhere, deep inside his thoughts, he remembered gazing at the mirror-like pool of blood surrounding her unmoving form. The lamb he had slain with his cruelty and lust. Tears welled in his eyes and threatened to fall but he held them back. Without realizing it, his pressure across the young woman's mouth increased until she fell limp. Forgive me…Catherine…All at once, the painful memories in his mind disappeared. He observed her for a moment, his cold, pale eyes scanning her beautiful, peaceful face.
For a moment…and only a moment…I could have sworn…you looked like her. Catherine. Even now, in your sleep, you torment me with her memory. Somehow, tis'…tragic you must suffer like this. Walter will bleed you, little lamb…and perchance I will drink from you, as I did from her. Surely, there must be a way… I can atone for her death…somehow…there must be way...
Footsteps thumped toward the door until the sound of concerned voices filled the silence. The creature withdrew from the lady with an annoyed huff. Joachim slid one hand beneath her knees and the other around shoulders. It took not an ounce of his strength to lift her into his arms. The pale creature turned, and with a soft swish from his fluttering robes, descended with his captive into the night.