Chapter 4 – The Fight
Reita, leaning against a nearby tree, watched everything with an amused smile on his face. Beside him, Kai appeared silently, arms crossed, observing the scene with a critical gaze.
— So, is it him? — Kai asked, his voice calm but filled with curiosity. — The vampire you're trying to capture with your provocations?
— Trying? — Reita repeated, feigning offense as he smiled. — My dear wolf Kai, I never try anything. I get what I want, but the vampire in question… well, he likes to play hard to get. And look at that, your beloved Uruha is spoiling my fun.
Kai shot a quick glance at Uruha, whose posture showed he was focused on finishing off Aoi. Kai sighed, as if used to dealing with the hunter's exaggerations.
— He won't stop until he gets what he wants — Kai said. — You know that, right?
— Oh! I know... — replied Reita, his eyes gleaming with mischief. — After all, it was a fair deal. I gave him the power and fame he desired. In exchange, for a favor. It's not my fault he decided to use them to be a vampire hunter.
Kai frowned but said nothing. His gaze returned to the fight, where Aoi now lay on the ground, trying to dodge another blow from Uruha's stake.
— Come on, Aoi! — Reita shouted, laughing. — Is that all you've got? Don't disappoint me now!
Aoi glared daggers at the Djinn, but it cost him dearly. Uruha seized the moment of distraction and struck the vampire's shoulder, the tip of the stake scratching his flesh and drawing blood.
— Looks like he's having trouble — Kai commented, his voice laced with disguised concern. — Uruha just hit him with the stake.
— Just temporary difficulties, I assure you — Reita replied with a smile. — But if Uruha hurts him too much, perhaps I'll have to intervene. After all, I have a very particular interest in that vampire.
While they conversed, Aoi managed to rise with a low growl, his eyes burning intensely. He grabbed Uruha's arm, spun him around, and hurled the hunter against one of the nearby trees. The impact sent leaves cascading down, yet Uruha remained unfazed. He quickly got to his feet with a predatory smile on his face.
— Impressive — Uruha remarked, his voice dripping with irony. — You fight well, vampire. But not well enough to escape fate…
Tension hung in the air like a taut string, as if a moment of greatness was about to be revealed—something that could change the dynamic of this encounter.
Before Aoi could respond, his intense gaze fixed on Uruha—with muscles still tensed and the stake gripped in his right hand, preparing for a new strike—he swiftly swept the vampire's legs, leaving him vulnerable and ready to be struck with a stake straight to the heart.
Seeing the possible death of the vampire, Reita stepped away from the tree, his footsteps echoing softly through the area. The sound of his boots on the ground resembled a drumbeat, marking the rhythm of a symphony that only he could hear.
— That's enough, Uruha, the game is over — he said, his voice now colder yet imbued with undeniable authority, like a king issuing orders to his subjects. — It's time to stop this.
Uruha froze for a moment, looking at Reita in surprise. The brightness of his determination faltered, and he hesitated—as if deciding whether or not to obey the Djinn. The moment stretched on, each second dragging like an endless echo.
— Remember, Uruha — Reita continued, his tone now sharper, like a finely honed blade. — You still owe me a favor.
Uruha weighed his options, his heart racing as he considered what was at stake. He could continue defying Reita, risking not only the favor he was owed but also the alliance they shared, or he could back down, acknowledging the Djinn's strength and the need to respect the rules governing their world.
He knew he had crossed a thin line—a territory where consequences were inevitable and Reita's patience was limited. Slowly, Uruha stepped away, casting one last conspiratorial glance at Aoi still on the ground. He took a moment to dust off his clothes, as if preparing for an elegant fashion show.
After all, who needs catastrophe when you can exit with style? He then joined Kai, who, with a relieved sigh, seemed to have escaped a low-budget horror film.
— You're playing with fire, Reita — Uruha warned, though there was a note of respect in his voice, perhaps even a touch of admiration. — This vampire will be your downfall.
— Perhaps — Reita replied, a sarcastic smile dancing on his lips. — But let's be honest, wouldn't it be less fun if there wasn't a little danger involved?
Uruha shook his head, as if trying to convince a friend of the imprudence of his wardrobe choice, and pulled Kai by the hand as they left the clearing. And so, they left Aoi and Reita alone—as if leaving two children in a playground.
The Djinn, watching the vampire on the ground—now visibly exhausted and injured, a true piece of modern art—stepped forward as if about to make a grand revelation.
— You should be thanking me, you know? — Reita said, extending his hand with a tone that mixed irony and disdain. — I saved your life...
Aoi, in a moment of pure decorum, merely growled in response, wiping the blood from his shoulder with the elegance of an offended aristocrat, while casting the Djinn a look that could melt ice.
— I didn't ask for your help — Aoi snapped, rejecting his hand as he rose, as if it were the most obvious thing in the world.
— You didn't ask, but you needed it — Reita replied. — And, to be honest, I'm having so much fun that I can't allow you to meet such a tragic fate.
Reita tilted his head, his eyes sparkling with an intriguing blend of amusement and a deeper, almost mysterious emotion.
— Now, Aoi, how about considering my proposal? What would you say to an exchange of favors?
The atmosphere between them seemed to vibrate with the suggestion, as if Reita's words opened the door to a game full of possibilities.
Aoi slowly rose, his eyes shining with a mixture of frustration and wounded pride. Blood streamed from his shoulder, staining his shirt, yet he ignored the physical pain. His attention was fixed on Reita, who watched him with a smile that exuded self-confidence.
— A favor exchange? — Aoi repeated, his voice laden with sarcasm. — As if I had any choice.
Reita shrugged and took a step closer. The night breeze tousled his hair as he maintained his unwavering gaze on the vampire.
— You always have a choice, dear Aoi — said the Djinn in a provocative yet slightly condescending tone. — The question is: what are you willing to sacrifice? Pride? Freedom? Or perhaps... control?
Aoi narrowed his eyes, feeling Reita's words penetrate deep into his thoughts. He wanted to reject the Djinn, to send him away, but the reality was undeniable. He owed his life to Reita, and the price of that debt loomed over him like a shadow.
— I don't trust you — Aoi finally declared, striving to sound firm.
Reita let out a low laugh, leaning slightly toward the vampire.
— Who said you need to trust? This is the game, Aoi. You simply have to play and accept the rules. Besides... — he paused, his smile sharpening — you know that running from me won't do any good. I will always find you.
Aoi clenched his fists, anger boiling in his chest. He hated the vulnerability that Reita stirred in him; he despised the fact that his hunger and pride had made him careless, leaving him dependent on the Djinn.
— So tell me, Reita — he spat the name with disdain. — What favor do you want? Because clearly, you never do anything without a price.
Reita tilted his head, his eyes sparkling with mischievous malice.
— Ah, dear Aoi, haven't you learned yet? I don't want you to pay now. That would be so... predictable. No, I prefer to let you drown in uncertainty, constantly wondering when I'll collect. It's all part of the fun, don't you think?
Aoi huffed, clearly irritated.
— You're insufferable.
— And you're irresistible — Reita retorted quickly with a provocative smile. — It's a perfect balance, wouldn't you agree?
For a moment, Aoi fell silent, his eyes locked on Reita's. He wanted to say something, anything to end the conversation and reclaim the little dignity he had left, but he couldn't find the right words. Finally, he stepped back, maintaining the distance between them.
— I'm not going to play your game — he said in a lower yet determined voice. — And you're not going to break me.
Reita simply smiled as he watched Aoi walk away, the vampire's silhouette fading into the night. He didn't try to stop him; after all, he knew the game was only just beginning.
Once Aoi was out of sight, Reita crossed his arms and chuckled softly.
— Oh, my dear vampire... You are already playing, even if you don't realize it.
Kai allowed Uruha to head toward the bar ahead and silently watched the scene between the Djinn and the vampire. Finally, he approached. His golden eyes reflected the moonlight—after all, he was still a werewolf, marked by the curse that Uruha, his amorous partner, had failed to eliminate. Despite everything, Kai loved him, and his connection with Uruha was undeniable.
— He'll come back to you, won't he? — Kai asked, crossing his arms and casting a suspicious glance at the Djinn.
— Without a doubt — Reita replied, his smile full of confidence. — They always come back. Especially when they can't escape themselves.
Kai sighed, clearly uneasy. He wanted to ask about his own situation—the desire he kept hidden: to rid himself of the werewolf curse. But he knew Reita well enough to know that the Djinn wouldn't do that without something grand in return.
— You know you could help me, right? — Kai finally said in a cautious voice.
Reita looked at him with an ironic smile.
— I know, but where's the benefit for me? Do you have anything to offer that's more interesting than that? — He gestured in the direction where Aoi had disappeared.
Kai's face fell in frustration. When he made his plea, he had wanted to rid himself of the curse and stay alive, but Reita had placed Uruha in his path to fulfill a desire that remained uncompleted. Reita claimed that he wasn't specific, so Kai continued being a werewolf—now strangely fond of a hunter. Reita was having fun, as always, playing with the desires and despair of others. The Djinn turned his gaze back to the horizon, a playful glimmer in his eyes.
— Don't worry, dear Kai. Your beloved hunter doesn't need to know you want to rid yourself of the curse. After all, secrets are what make these relationships so... delicious.
The following night, beneath the golden lights of the Eiffel Tower, Aoi returned. He walked with steady steps, yet his gaze revealed the restlessness he felt. The Parisian air was heavy with unspoken promises, and anticipation crackled like electricity in the wind.
Reita was already waiting for him. Dressed in a perfectly tailored Armani suit, the Djinn exuded charm and power. His smile was enigmatic, and his eyes sparkled when he saw the vampire approaching.
— It was a surprise to see you tonight. Your presence has brought a renewed energy to this place. — Reita said, pleased, as if he had never doubted it.
Aoi stopped just a few paces away, his lips curving into an ironic, subtle smile.
— I had no other choice. You made it clear that I owe you a favor for saving me from the hunter.
— I know desires, Aoi. And yours are more transparent than you imagine. — Reita replied.
The vampire crossed his arms, trying to ignore the impact Reita's presence had on his self-control.
— So, why are we here? Are you finally going to reveal the favor you want from me?
Reita stepped forward, closing the distance between them. His voice was a seductive whisper.
— All in good time, mon cher. First, I want to enjoy the night. Let's toast to that… peculiar agreement we made.
Aoi raised an eyebrow.
— And if I refuse?
Reita chuckled softly, his eyes full of mystery.
— You won't. Deep down, you're as curious as I am to see how far this can go.
Aoi fell silent for a moment before letting out a resigned sigh.
— Just one glass of wine. And then, you say what you want.
Reita extended his arm toward him, like a gentleman inviting him to dance.
— Ah, my dear impatient vampire, has eternity not taught you patience yet? Remember that the taste of victory is sweeter when well awaited.
Reita's chosen restaurant was one of the most refined in Paris, perched atop a building that provided a panoramic view of the radiant city.
The dining room boasted shimmering crystal chandeliers, tables arranged with sophistication, adorned with immaculate linen tablecloths and subtle floral arrangements.
The clientele was exclusive—aristocrats, business moguls, and celebrities, all absorbed in discreet conversation. Impeccably dressed waiters served high-priced wines and artfully prepared dishes.
Reita selected a private table near the window, where the lights of the Eiffel Tower twinkled like a jewel on the horizon. As soon as they were seated, a waiter appeared to take their orders.
— The finest red wine in the house for my dear Aoi — Reita said, an insinuating smile playing on his lips. — And for me, the chef's selection. I want to start with an amuse-bouche of foie gras and truffles, followed by fresh oysters. For the main course, filet mignon in a Bordeaux wine sauce with grilled vegetables.
He paused before looking at Aoi.
— For you, mon cher… a beautiful rare steak, served with a special blood reduction, prepared in the chef's style.
Aoi raised an eyebrow, recognizing Reita's game. The Djinn aimed to impress him, to win him over with grand gestures and a false sense of control. But Aoi would not surrender so easily.
— Do you always have to make everything so theatrical? — he teased, accepting the glass of wine the waiter served him.
Reita laughed softly, bringing his own glass to his lips.
— Only when I'm in front of an audience that's worth it. And you, Aoi, are worth every cent of the spectacle.
As the courses were delayed, the atmosphere brimmed with expectation. Reita tried to make small talk with feigned casualness, though his attentive gaze betrayed that he was studying every reaction of the vampire.
— The wine is interesting, don't you think? — Reita asked, observing Aoi with an almost hypnotic intensity. — It has a fruity note that makes it special.
Aoi looked into the depths of his glass, contemplating the true nature of the wine compared to what was about to happen.
— I agree, but I prefer drinks with a bit more… complexity. Perhaps, like life.
— Ah, and what would that complexity be like? — Reita inquired, his curiosity evident. — A mix of sweet and bitter, perhaps?
— Something like that. — Aoi replied, a slight smile appearing on his lips. — Life is full of subtleties, and what seems sweet can turn bitter over time.
Reita leaned forward slightly, clearly enchanted.
— You have such a poetic way of viewing the world, Aoi. That intrigues me.
Aoi paused, evaluating the sincerity in Reita's words.
— Intrigue can be a dangerous game, Djinn.
In the midst of a fluid conversation, Reita casually slid his hand across the table until it touched Aoi's. The touch was light, almost imperceptible, yet its impact on the vampire was immediate. A surge of energy coursed through his body, and he found himself torn between keeping his distance and succumbing to the temptation of exploring this unexpected connection.
— What is it that you truly seek, Reita? — Aoi challenged, fixing his gaze on the Djinn's eyes, daring him to reveal himself.
— You seem tense — murmured Reita, leaning in slightly. — Is that because you're in the company of someone dangerous, or is there another reason?
Aoi tried to withdraw, but hesitated, and that fraction of a second was all Reita needed to sense his vulnerability.
— Don't delude yourself, Djinn — Aoi replied, his voice firmer than he felt inside. — I don't fall for your games that easily.
Reita smiled from the corner of his mouth, his fingers lightly brushing Aoi's cool skin before retracting with a satisfied look.
— I never said it would be easy, — he said, taking his glass to his lips. — But where would the fun be if it were?
Reita tilted his head, maintaining eye contact, and smiled slyly, as if he had already read the secrets behind that look.
— Ah, mon cher, it is that mystery that fascinates me. You try to pull away, but every time my fingers touch yours, it seems you want to come closer — he said insinuatingly, his challenging gaze making Aoi feel exposed.
The conversation had become a chess game, with each word a strategic move. And while the food was yet to arrive, Aoi realized that even in such a mundane setting, what was at stake was far more than just a dinner.