Chapter 2: Journey's Beginning

They did not spend a second longer at the abandoned mansion.

Staying the night was not an option. Richard was anxious to leave, and Asbel disliked the gloomy aura in the place. They would do much better at an inn, even if it took them an hour or so of walking. Thankfully, Richard had no need to pack - his only belongings were the clothes on his body and a hooded cloak. It would be helpful in concealing his red eyes once they arrived at the village.

"We'll get you new clothes tomorrow," Asbel said as he chewed on some dried meat, taken from his backpack. After losing much of his blood, he couldn't wait to eat at the village. "Something simple and good for traveling. You would draw too much attention in those fancy clothes you're wearing. I bet the people around here have never seen a noble in their lives."

Richard nodded, his expression sharp and attentive. It was amazing how different he was from before; he had so much more energy now, as if new life had been instilled within him. And it had, in a way - in the form of Asbel's blood.

The thought sent a shiver down his spine.

They walked for the better part of an hour, making little conversation. Asbel tried asking about Richard's past, but his answers were either vague or absent. Despite his recovery, Richard was still on the quieter side - and a bit too gloomy for Asbel's taste. Well, maybe that was something they could work on during their travels together.

By the time they arrived on the village, it was well past midnight. All the houses were dark, with every single door and window closed - the way it always went in the outskirts of the kingdom. Here, the night held too many dangers for anyone to be out and about.

The inn was easy to spot, being the only two-story building in the tiny village. It was as dark and silent as everything else. Asbel knew every door and window would be bolted.

They approached, and Asbel knocked heavily on the front door, shouting, "Hunter! Hunter here!"

It took a few moments of knocking and shouting before he heard hurried footsteps, and a deep, tense voice sounded from inside, "Badge!"

Asbel reached into his shirt, fishing out a medallion he wore on a chain around his neck. "Here."

The innkeeper opened his peephole, revealing an oil lamp and a pair of narrow, hard eyes. Asbel held out the medallion, a metallic disk with the Hunter's Order crest engraved on the front. The innkeeper blinked. "Press it against your forehead."

Asbel frowned. "I'm already touching it with my fingers. If I was a vampire, the adamantine metal would burn my skin just the same."

"But everyone says hunters are supposed to press their badges against their foreheads!"

Annoying superstitions, Asbel thought, and brought the medallion to his forehead. If anyone from the Order saw him doing this, they'd laugh for sure. "Is that enough?"

"Yes," the innkeeper beamed, "A hunter! Finally, a hunter has come to our poor old village!"

Asbel saw the innkeeper bend down, and heard the sound of locks opening and bolts being removed. Moments later, the door came ajar, revealing a large middle-aged man. Behind him, a middle-aged woman, likely his wife, was holding a battle staff. She relaxed when she saw Asbel.

"Welcome to our humble inn, Master Hunter," the woman said, smiling. "I'm Sonia, and this is my husband, Warrick. We apologize for our wariness, but out here, we have to be careful." She paused, furrowing her brows. "Is that your companion?"

Asbel had almost forgotten about Richard; his hunger must've been slowing his brain. Thankfully, Richard's hood was pulled down, covering his eyes. "Yes," Asbel replied, smiling awkwardly. "His name is Richard, and I am Asbel. We're looking for a room to spend the night."

"One room?" She raised her eyebrows, gaze fixed on Richard.

Asbel's pulse quickened. He knew there was no way for any normal human to know what Richard was - at least not without looking at his eyes. But what if the innkeepers thought his hood was suspicious?

"Just one," Asbel muttered, feeling cold sweat on his brow.

Sonia's eyes narrowed, her gaze never leaving Richard. Finally, she leaned down, and whispered in Asbel's ear, "Is your companion…"

Asbel's heart almost stopped.

"…Your secret lover?"

Asbel choked on the vehement No! he had been about to say. Instead, his jaw dropped and he sputtered, "M-My what?"

Sonia smirked, nudging Asbel's ribcage with her elbow. "I guess a hunter isn't allowed to get caught up in love, eh? But don't worry, we'll keep your secret, as long as you promise not to slack off in order to get cozy with your 'friend'!" Another nudge, so strong Asbel gasped. "Killing vampires first, hanky panky second, you hear me?"

Shocked as he was, Asbel could only nod absently, wide-eyed.

"Good boy," she added, winking. "My husband will show you both to your room now."

Still unable to believe their conversation, Asbel followed the massive innkeeper up a flight of stairs. He could only hope Richard hadn't overheard Sonia's words.

They were led to a room on the far end of the second floor. Warrick unlocked the door, and with a proud smile, presented what must've been the inn's best room. It was spacious and well-decorated, with a single large bed and a private bathing chamber. Far more luxury than Asbel had expected to find in such a small village.

"Would you like your bath prepared now or in the morning?" Warrick asked after showing them the room.

"In the morning is fine. It's pretty late now." He glanced at Richard, who nodded in agreement. "Though… if there's anything to eat, I'd appreciate that."

"Of course! I'd be happy to prepare you a meal, master hunter. Any preference on the menu?"

"I wouldn't ask you to cook at this hour," Asbel said, surprised at the innkeeper's enthusiasm. Either he was very glad to finally have a hunter in town, or he was a little crazy. "I'll just eat whatever leftovers you have in the kitchen."

"Well, if you're eager to go to bed, I can heat up what's left of supper's stew for you. Would you like me to bring it up?"

"I'll eat in the kitchen, if that's fine."

Warrick bowed. "It should be ready in a few minutes, master hunter." With that, he left, closing the door after him.

Asbel sighed, walking over to a nearby chair to unload his backpack, traveling cloak, and sword. "Sorry for that."

"For what?" Richard replied, finally pushing back his hood. His eyes still shone red.

"You didn't hear…? Um, never mind then. I mean… I hope you don't mind sharing a bed."

"I don't mind."

"Okay." Asbel scratched the back of his head, unsure of what to say. "I'll go downstairs now. You can make yourself comfortable, or… do you want to eat with me?"

Gaze falling, Richard shook his head. "Food has lost its taste since I became this."

His tone made Asbel's chest tighten. "I… I see. I'm sorry."

Richard smiled softly in reply, though his eyes remained sorrowful. Without another word, Asbel turned, opened the door, and left.

By the time he stepped into the kitchen, the room was already filled with the pleasant fragrance of spices. Warrick stood by an oven, stirring a large pot. "Right on time. It's almost ready."

Bowl and spoon had been laid on a table, and Asbel took a seat. "It smells delicious," he remarked, feeling hunger tug at his stomach. "Where's Sonia?"

"I'm the one who cooks," Warrick stated proudly.

"I mean, I wanted to ask her about something. I need some clothes."

Warrick glanced at him over his shoulder, raising an eyebrow.

"For my friend, I mean. He needs new traveling clothes. Nothing fancy, but comfortable and durable. And by tomorrow, if possible."

"Of course. We'll get new clothes for your… friend." He chuckled, taking Asbel's bowl and serving him a generous portion of the steaming dish. As Warrick placed the full bowl back in front of Asbel, he leaned forward, whispering suggestively, "By the way, if you and your friend need anything else for tonight… I can also give you a nice bottle of oil for your needs."

Asbel almost choked on his first spoonful. "That's… very kind of you," he sputtered, trying not to grow too flustered. "I don't think it will be necessary, though."

"So you already have some, eh?" He laughed heartily. "Ah, the joys of being young. Always ready for a round, even in the midst of hunting vampires."

Asbel forced a laugh, trying not to dwell on the mental image of him and Richard… 'ready for a round'. It left his face feeling warm, and he tried to blame it on the stew.

When he returned to his room, Richard was already in bed, lying on his side and facing away from the door. As Asbel stepped inside, Richard turned to glance at him from over his shoulder, giving one of his soft smiles when he saw who it was. Asbel returned it, and Richard turned again, resettling himself on the bed.

Richard seemed to be wearing a night robe, and Asbel found a similar one under his pillow. Bless those innkeepers. Stripping quickly - and hoping Richard wouldn't turn right in that moment to find him naked - he dropped his clothes on a chair and donned the robe. It was simple, but well-made and comfortable. The same could be said of the mattress, blankets, and pillows. A far better inn than Asbel had expected to find in this desolate place.

The bed was big enough for both of them, but sometimes, when Asbel shifted around, he accidentally brushed against Richard's back or legs. He muttered flushed apologies every time, to which Richard replied with sleepy reassurances that it was fine. After a while, Richard stopped replying. His soft, steady breathing showed he was asleep.

Asbel fell asleep soon after, his knee gently touching the back of Richard's thigh.

Came morning, Asbel awakened to the sound of knocking. He opened his eyes quickly, alertness coming to him immediately; even in the safety of an inn, his hunter instincts remained. By his side, Richard was shifting among the blankets, making the occasional sleepy 'mmm'. For a vampire, it was hard to wake while the sun was still high.

Letting Richard get some more rest, Asbel quietly slipped out of bed and opened the door. Sonia was outside, holding a bag and grinning.

"So you're the couple's morning guy?" she asked in hushed tones, elbowing Asbel's ribs. "Your honey's still drained after a night of action?"

Asbel forced a laugh, knowing his cheeks must've been reddening again. "Good morning, Mrs. Sonia."

"Good morning, lovebird hunter." She handed him the bag. "Here's what you asked for last night. Traveling clothes for your companion."

"Already? That's surprisingly fast. Thank you."

"Don't mention it. The tailor was happy to work for a hunter. Said he'd make any necessary adjustments, too, though they should fit well without any."

Asbel nodded, taking a step away from the door to reach for his bag.

"If you're thinking of paying, forget it. No one in their right mind would charge a hunter. Your service is worth more than any coin."

Asbel, bowing his head, smiled. "Thank you. I only do my job."

"And we do ours," she replied with a smile of her own. "Should we bring up the hot water for your bath? Or would you like breakfast first?"

Asbel's stomach rumbled. "Breakfast, please."

"My husband will bring up a tray in a moment. I'll have the bath ready when you two are done eating." Smiling again, she left.

Asbel waited, yawning. There was no point in waking Richard now, given he had no interest in food. When Warrick arrived with the tray, Asbel thanked him, closed the door, and sat down to gobble up both portions.

Once he was done, he climbed back on the bed, intent on rousing Richard. He was already half-awake, looking up at Asbel through long fluttering lashes. The scarlet in his eyes was no longer as glaring, but the color was still vivid. "Good morning," he said softly, voice slurred by sleepiness.

Asbel felt a warmth in his chest. "Good morning." Unconsciously, he reached out, with the intention of brushing a golden lock from Richard's face; he caught himself mid-motion, his fingers almost touching Richard's cheek. What was he doing? They weren't actually lovers. In fact, they barely knew each other.

Richard watched his hand curiously. Embarrassed, Asbel withdrew it. "The innkeeper said she'll have baths ready soon. If you want to, I mean."

"I'd love to," he replied, slowly sitting up. His night robe had opened a little during the night, revealing part of his chest. Pale skin, unnaturally so, but somehow… it suited him. On Richard, it was beautiful.

Asbel wondered why he felt so drawn to this man. Was it because Richard drank his blood? Surviving a vampire's bite was uncommon; surviving a vampire's bite and allowing said vampire to live was unheard of. Was Asbel suffering side-effects? Could that explain the reason he felt the way he did?

"…Asbel?"

Almost jumping in surprise, Asbel's gaze flew from Richard's chest - he had been staring! - to his face. "S-Sorry, I spaced out. What did you say?"

Richard smiled, but it didn't reach his eyes. "Don't worry. It wasn't important."

"Please. I want to hear it." Above all, he didn't want Richard to think he was uninterested in him.

"I was just rambling about how glad I was to bathe in an actual tub, and in hot water. For the past months, I could only wash myself in a freezing river."

"Oh." Well, Richard was surprisingly clean given that. "Wait… sorry to ask, but can you feel cold?"

For a moment, Richard looked away. "I do. But… it's different. I don't shiver, and I know I cannot die of hypothermia. However, I always feel cold, like my body no longer warms itself. It's… not very pleasant." He paused. "Until last night."

Asbel swallowed. "Drinking my blood helped?"

"Yes. It… it made me feel very warm." Richard's cheeks reddened slightly. "Even now, I'm still… I believe it's because we shared a bed. Your body warmth kept me…" He paused, the color in his cheeks deepening. Straightening himself, he continued in a steadier voice, "I'm sure taking a hot bath will help keep the cold at bay, as well."

Asbel found himself nodding. He certainly wouldn't mind sleeping on the same bed as Richard again in order to keep him warm. His mind started trailing off once more, but before it could go far, a knock on the door brought him back.

It was Warrick, announcing that their bath was ready. Two tubs filled with hot water waited them in the bathing chamber. Blushing, Asbel insisted for Richard to go first, lest him offer for them to bathe together. That would be too much to handle.

"Are you sure, Asbel?" Richard asked in reply. "The water will be cold by then."

"It's fine. I just don't want to make you uncomfortable by… um… you know."

Richard's eyes widened a fraction, his cheeks coloring slightly. After a pause, he said, "There are two tubs, so it won't be a problem. I'd rather we bathe together than have one of us be forced to wash with cold water."

Not knowing what else he could say, Asbel nodded awkwardly, and followed Richard into the bathing chamber.

The air inside was warm and heavy with moisture. Other than the tubs, which were uncomfortably close to each other, the room had two long wooden benches. Richard walked to one of them and began stripping; it took Asbel a moment before he managed to force his gaze elsewhere. He all but flung his night robe at the other bench and immediately hopped into one of the tubs, splashing enough water to make Richard gasp in surprise.

Automatically, Asbel turned towards the sound, and found Richard fully naked, about to enter the other tub. Asbel couldn't help but notice Richard's slender body, smooth pale skin covering subtle lines of muscle, a nice contrast with his reddening face–

Asbel realized he had been staring. Again. And this time, Richard caught him doing it.

Feeling his own face flush, Asbel turned away, almost submerging his head in the water out of embarrassment. He considered stuttering an apology, but that would only make it worse. Better to let it go, and hope Richard would forget it soon. Even though Asbel definitely wouldn't.

To keep his mind busy, he took a bar of soap and began scrubbing himself. From the sound coming from Richard's direction, he seemed to be doing the same. Silence dragged on, until it became too much for Asbel to bear.

"This soap smells nice, right?" It was the first thing that came to his mind.

Richard took a moment to answer, which almost made Asbel panic. But finally, he said, "It smells very pleasant. Lavender, I believe, but different from any kind I've ever seen. Maybe it only grows around this area."

Asbel breathed in relief. "So you know a lot about soaps?"

"Not in particular. But I enjoy fragrances."

"Fragrances, eh? What's your favorite one?"

"Roses," he replied cheerfully.

Asbel tried to imagine Richard smelling like roses. It would suit him, he thought. But then again, even without any fragrance, Richard smelled pretty good.

"Are there any fragrances you enjoy, Asbel?"

Once more, Asbel automatically turned towards him. Richard was looking at his direction, smiling softly. The tub was deep enough that only his head, neck and shoulders could be seen.

"I… I kinda like the smell of apples," Asbel said, scratching his cheek. "I guess it's not exactly a fragrance, but it reminds me of home."

"There are fragrances made from apples. They're sweet and refreshing… I think they would suit you, Asbel."

Looking at Richard's smile, Asbel couldn't help but be thankful they were bathing together. However awkward it had been at first, this short conversation made it more than worth it.

Richard placed his elbow on the edge of his tub, resting his chin on the back of his hand. "You said apples remind you of home… are you from Lhant, Asbel?"

The question took him unaware. "You know Lhant?"

"I have never been there, but I've heard it produces most of Windor's supply of apples."

"Really? Most of Windor's supply? I had no idea, and I was born there. You're well informed." He leaned his head back against the edge of the tub. "Where are you from?"

Richard hesitated before answering, "Barona."

"You're from the capital?" Asbel blurted, jaw dropping. "But it's right next to the Order! How the hell did you get Turned?" No vampire would ever manage to get anywhere close to the capital without getting shot down by an army of hunters!

Richard looked away, sliding deeper into the water. "I wasn't in the capital when it happened."

Asbel's eyes widened. "But why would you leave Barona? It has everything, and it's the safest city in the entire continent." He was sure Richard had been nobility, yet nobles from the capital rarely traveled.

Richard was silent, looking down at the water. Moments later, he muttered, "I'm sorry. I'd rather not talk about this."

Asbel froze. He had been a fool; of course Richard wouldn't want to talk about the circumstances involved in his Turning. "No, I'm… I'm the one to blame. It was insensitive of me to ask. I'm sorry, Richard."

Richard turned towards him, wearing a smile that was belied by the sorrow in his eyes. "It's fine, Asbel. Don't worry."

But Asbel did worry, and he kept worrying as he went back to scrubbing himself with soap. He realized he really wanted to know how Richard had become a vampire, not out of curiosity, but in order to be able to comfort him. Maybe one day Richard would trust him enough to tell.

They continued to bathe in silence. Asbel was done first, and he went back to the bedroom to change while Richard finished washing his hair. He was already fully clothed when Richard stepped in, wrapped in a towel.

"Y-Your new clothes are on the bed," he blurted, trying not to let his eyes wander; Richard had very nice legs. "I hope they'll fit."

Asbel stared at the wall while he waited for Richard to get changed. In the end, the clothes turned out to suit Richard far better than Asbel had expected. The pants were a bit loose, but tucked into Richard's high boots, they looked rather good. The long-sleeved shirt was a near-perfect fit, made better by a belt around the waist. Despite their simple design, they were obviously well-made.

"They look great on you, Richard."

Richard smiled. "Thank you. They're rather comfortable."

"Your old stuff isn't too bulky, so we can keep it if you want. I'll get you a backpack, too." Hopping off the bed, Asbel took his own bag, and handed Richard his cloak. "But first, we'll go out and get you a sword. I think I saw a blacksmith's shop when we got here last night."

The morning was bright, bright enough that Richard could barely see through the sun's glare. He had to pull his hood low and cling to Asbel's arm as they walked through the village. To avoid questions, Asbel wore his hunter's badge in plain sight; it drew far more attention than the hooded figure walking by his side. Thankfully, despite the stares, no one would ever bother a hunter going about on his business.

There indeed was a blacksmith's shop, not very far from the inn. Though then again, nothing was very far when it came to a small village. They heard the sound of pounding metal from outside, and were greeted by a teenage boy - likely an apprentice - when they entered. As soon as he saw the medallion hanging from Asbel's neck, he ran to call his master.

The blacksmith was a tall woman who must've been in her early forties, powerfully built from years of working her craft. "Master hunter," she declared formally, bowing, "How may we help you?"

"I would like to take a look at your finished swords, if you have any for sale."

"Oh, we certainly do," she replied, smiling. "Our supply can never run out. Here in the border villages, every adult owns a weapon, even farmers and innkeepers. Please come with me."

She showed them to an impressive display of many different kinds of swords. "Are you buying a blade for yourself, master hunter?"

"For my companion," Asbel said, gesturing towards Richard. He was still wearing his hood, but he had pushed it back a bit so he could look at the swords. Asbel had to admit the blades were remarkable, both in number and quality. "Do people in your village attempt to fight vampires?"

"Fight vampires?" She laughed. "We could only wish. No, master hunter, our weapons just make us slightly harder to kill. If we're going to die either way, better to do it with dignity."

Asbel wasn't surprised. A normal blade could injury a vampire, but the wound would heal almost immediately. Only weapons made from adamantine could inflict lasting - or killing - wounds. Richard's sword could help slow down a foe, but it would mostly be for self-defense.

"Asbel, I believe I have made my choice," Richard muttered beside him.

He was holding a long, slender blade, with an elaborate hilt that could've earned approving nods even back in the Order.

"Your companion made a good choice," the blacksmith said, "That's one of the best rapiers I've ever made. Light, fast, and precise."

"It truly is marvelous," Richard murmured, thrusting the blade in the air, "I never thought I would find such impeccable handiwork this far from Barona."

The blacksmith's eyes widened. "You're from the capital?"

"Um, that's the Order's business," Asbel intervened, nudging Richard with his elbow. "We'll take the rapier." He reached into his bag for his coin purse.

"Please, there is no need to pay. I would never take gald from a hunter." She bowed, more deeply than before. "Is there anything else you require? Sharpening for your sword?"

"My sword doesn't need sharpening, but thank you. I believe this is all we need."

"Our humble shop is honored to serve the Order. Travel swiftly, master hunter." She gave a final bow, and gestured to her apprentice, who led Asbel and Richard outside.

Once they were alone, Richard inched closer, whispering, "I'm sorry for my blunder. I was distracted."

"What? Oh, you mean when you mentioned Barona?" He took Richard's arm and began walking, lest they draw even more attention by standing still. "Don't worry about it. No one would question a hunter, or a hunter's companion. But people from all over the kingdom are fascinated by the capital, so if you even mention it, they're sure to bombard you with questions."

"Really? I wasn't aware. Barona is beautiful, but it's just a city."

"Just a city?" Asbel laughed. "I guess if you've lived there all your life, you end up taking it for granted."

Richard's shoulders sagged and he looked away. He did not reply.

"Wait, Richard, I'm… I'm sorry. I didn't mean to–"

"No, Asbel. It's true. Those who live in the capital do take it for granted."

Richard said no more. Unconsciously, Asbel pulled him closer, holding him tightly as they kept on walking.

After a while, they were back at the inn. "We'll get you a backpack and I'll restock my provisions. Then we travel east."

"East?"

Asbel nodded. "I can feel a vampire's presence in that direction. It's far, but I hadn't felt it last night, so it might be coming towards this village. It will likely turn back when it detects me, but we can get some ground on it while it's still daytime."

The innkeepers were happy to provide them with a backpack and supplies, all fetched from local villagers who had jumped at the opportunity to help a hunter. In less than an hour, they were on the road, the village dwindling in size behind them.

The day was bright and sunny. It lifted Asbel's spirits, but also drained Richard's strength. While he was able to keep up with Asbel's pace at first, he began to struggle as the sun rose higher.

"We should stop and rest," Asbel said, placing a hand on Richard's shoulder. "Get off the road and wait under a tree for an hour or so."

"I'm sorry," Richard muttered between pants, "I'm getting in your way."

"Don't worry about it. It's only for a bit, and I can use the opportunity to have lunch."

Taking Richard's arm, Asbel led him towards a particularly large tree. They both sat under the shade, leaning against the trunk. Richard pulled back his hood, squinting his eyes at the sunlight.

"You can keep the hood if you want," Asbel said, "Today must be too bright for you."

"It is rather bright, but the hood was getting stuffy."

"Really? So you're actually feeling warm for once?"

Richard smiled. "For the first time in months."

Asbel returned Richard's smile, feeling a different kind of warmth in his chest. "If it's too bright, you can keep your eyes closed. Maybe napping could help you recover your strength? Or…" He paused, hesitating. Tonight, they might be fighting a vampire. If Richard drank his blood and he became too weak…

No, it would be fine if it was only a little.

"Asbel?"

He swallowed. "I was wondering if some of my blood could help you."

Richard's eyes widened despite the sun, his gaze fixing on Asbel's neck. For a moment, his lips parted, revealing small canines that seemed to be growing in size. But then he shook his head and looked away. "Thank you, Asbel, but what you gave me yesterday should be enough to last a while. I… I don't want to be a burden on you."

"It's fine, Richard. It wouldn't be a burden." Asbel's heart raced as he spoke. "I can spare a little if you think it might help."

Richard hesitated. "It might, but… I could barely control myself last time. It's true I was starving, and yet… I'm afraid that even if I'm not hungry, I would end up drinking too much, and leave you exhausted."

"I see," Asbel muttered, trying not to think about his disappointment. "Well, maybe you could try napping while I eat, then? I'll watch over you."

"It might help. I do tend to feel quite sleepy during the day," he said, smiling. "Thank you, Asbel."

Richard leaned his head against the trunk, closing his eyes. His expression was relaxed and peaceful; it brought a smile to Asbel's lips. Quietly, Asbel took some food from his bag, and ate while listening to the soft sound of Richard's breath.

Hopefully, Richard would have good dreams.