He finished the portrait of Dracula just as the clock struck twelve. He stretched and glanced at his work one more time, smiling, satisfied with the portrait. So that the summer night's heat wouldn't get to him, he had left the window open to air out the room. He had been so focused on admiring the work that he had just finished that he had not heard light footsteps nearing his room; he assumed that he was the only one up at this time of night. As he looked up towards the window to admire the full moon, he about jumped out of his skin. As a man had been sitting on the edge of the window, seeming to admire the finished work.
The man then looked at the young man and asked him a single question, "Up a bit late aren't we human?" he had asked in a cocky manner. It took him a moment to register that this had been happening for real. He stared at the pale-skinned man with his mouth ajar in shock. The man had hair black as the night which reached his lower back, his eyes glowed a red color as they looked at him in almost a mocking manner. He had been unsure, but the man looked like the stereotypical vampire. The young man eyed him from head to toe as if appraising him.
As he concluded that the man was, in fact, a vampire, his eyes grew wide. All these years he had not been crazy. Vampires really existed, and there was one sitting on the edge of his window. HIS window. This was a dream come true. Despite this seeming to be a dream come true, something didn't sit right with him. Almost as if it were too good to be true. Every instinct in his gut told him he should run far from this man, this predator, but he wanted to know more about him, HAD to know more about him in fact, his boyish dreams demanded it.
He realized that he had been staring at the man for a while now. He swallowed hard and looked at the man and asked him," Excuse me, but why are you sitting on the edge of my window? Is there something that you need? If not, I am afraid I am going to have to ask you to leave as I have to finish my work here and clean up for the night," the man only smiled mischievously at the young man. Whoever this man was, he was not taking him seriously as he didn't answer him and instead stepped inside the open window. He then stood in the room, towering over the student," You are a funny one. A human, daring to order ME around. This is the funniest thing that has happened to me for centuries," with that the man laughed almost uncontrollably.
Not liking how this stranger was now laughing at him, he cleared his throat and asked," Who exactly are you?" despite trying to hide his fear, his voice shook. The man stopped laughing for a moment and frowned at the young man," I suppose I should tell you at least that much, not that it will matter much. As you will soon be my prey. My name is Vladimir, I am a Nosferatu, vampire, whatever you humans call us now," there was a trace of irritation in his voice as he answered the human's question. He sneered at him as he saw the fear kick into the human.
Several thoughts ran through his head. What had he expected? A friendly hello, let's go to a cafe? This was a predator he was looking at, now that he faced him, and as potential prey, he was unsure what to do next. He knew to outrun him was impossible, yet that is what his instincts told him to do, and run he did; out of his room, banging the door against the wall, hoping to make it outside and to the closest church. It was sacred, so he shouldn't be able to step a foot inside of it, right? He thought to himself as he ran. Vladimir rolled his eyes and muttered," They always run, why must they always run?" he muttered, agitated by the usual annoying habit of his prey. He let out a sigh and followed the now running human.
To his surprise, he had made it outside; given the speed of a vampire, he had not expected to make it that far. He continued to run despite running out of breath and growing weary. He looked to either side of him, not thinking to look up, where the vampire was hovering with a smirk across his face. To the vampire, this was a game of cat and mouse. He lazily watched the human, wondering what he would do next. Would he still run? Or stop and look around? He had always been rather fond of chasing his prey, though sometimes, like now, it became tedious."Looking for me?" Vladimir asked as he lowered himself to the ground directly in front of the young man.
The man stood there in disbelief as he lowered himself to the ground, amused by the shocked expression the young man had, Vladimir asked him in a mocking tone, "What? Did you expect me to chase you?" To the vampire's surprise, instead of a look of fear he had got a look of awe, which he had not expected and was unsure of how to react, so he snapped, "What exactly are you staring at? I thought you knew so much of my kind", the young man swallowed hard, unsure of what to say. He didn't know how he knew about his fascination with his kind, but he was pretty sure he had read his mind. All the same, he was unsure how to respond to him.
Cornered by the vampire, he looked around to find a way to once again run from him, though there didn't seem to be anywhere for him to go. The vampire would place himself in his way, regardless of which direction he tried to run. He was now breathing hard from all of his attempts at getting away from his pursuer. The vampire was steadily getting fed up with his prey trying to run from him, though he had been so focused on the human that he had not noticed another vampire in the vicinity. After a few minutes, Vladimir noticed the presence of the other vampire and looked in that direction. There he saw the one vampire he never liked, "Necros...." Vladimir sneered in disgust. Necros returned the same look of disgust as he walked into the moonlight, revealing himself.
He had his long black hair tied back with a red ribbon; he wore a cloak to conceal the rest of himself so the human could not see much of him. His movements were like fluid water. It was clear with the expression of Vladimir's face that he felt threatened by this vampire. When he walked, he didn't make a single sound, nor did he show any fear of Vladimir. He had walked until the two vampires were almost touching noses and he asked Vladimir in a hushed tone," Vladimir, isn't this human your fourth victim tonight? It is unfortunate for you it is me that has caught you; as you will not claim the life of this human as long as I draw breath. You have become a rogue and I will be the one to stop you," Necros told him in a matter-of-fact tone, as a smug grin appeared on his face he backed away from Vladimir, to give him space just so he could see what he would do.
Vladimir looked at Necros with disdain, growling low in his throat as the other vampire challenged him," Shall we duel for this prey, then?" he taunted pretending he had regained his nerve, he tilted his head to the side with an almost psychotic looking smile on his face. Necros looked at the rogue vampire emotionless, but after a short moment, he told him," the human is not my prey, but if I were you I would defend yourself," he warned Vladimir with a smirk pulling at the sides of his mouth. He then disappeared from where he stood and reappeared behind the other vampire enjoying the look of surprise on his opponent's face," it would seem that despite the amount you have hunted and fed this night, that you are so distracted by the sound of the human's heart that you have become sloppy," he whispered in Vladimir's ear. Vladimir slowly turned his head to look at Necros, but it was too late for him to defend himself as Necros had then thrust his hand through his chest, removing his heart and dropping it to the ground as if it was something dirty.
Vladimir let out a blood-curdling scream as he had his heart pulled from his chest, his body then fell forward and crumpled to the ground lifeless. Necros looked at the fallen vampire with cold eyes, then he then closed his eyes for a moment just to build energy to form a small fireball that he threw onto the body and the heart of the vampire. Not saying a word, Necros walked from the now burning corpse over to the human who had watched that entire interaction. He kneeled to the eye level of the wide-eyed human, as he was taller than him. It was as if he was trying to size him up before deciding of what to do with him. After a moment's pause, he shook his head and placed his hand over the young man's forehead, causing him to pass out. Then he picked him up and walked away from the campus with a smirk on his face, as if he had something planned for this human.
Under the cover of the night, Necros took him to his home, which turned out to be a rather large manor. Humans in the area thought it was a historical place which was off limits, so Necros was never bothered too much. This was also the safest place for the college student. As it was, a lot of vampires would often prey on humans that knew of their existence, just to keep them silent. It was decided centuries ago that they could not trust humans with their secret. Just as he slipped through the door, day overtook the night and the sun's light spread. As the door closed with a thud, an elderly human male approached Necros," Welcome home, M'lord. Who is this that you have brought with you, if I may ask? A guest perhaps?" as he asked his question, Necros handed the young man to him.
Necros regarded him carefully and slowly nodded," Yes, Ignatius, he will stay with us for the time being. He knows of our world so he would be at risk if I let him be," he explained to him as he motioned to a nearby room for Ignatius to take him to. The elderly man nodded, walking towards the room that Necros had motioned towards. As he laid the young man down, his bright blue eyes showed concern for what the future may bring.
He stood there looking over him for a moment longer before quietly leaving the room, closing the door behind him, returning to the entry hallway where Necros was waiting for him. As he reached Necros, he couldn't help but ask about the young man," Pardon me, M'lord. I know it is not my place to ask, but who is the young man you brought with you?" he asked cautiously as he did not want to overstep his bounds.
Necros smiled fondly at the elderly man," My dear friend, Ignatius, you need not be so formal with me, you have served me for just about your entire life; to answer your question, he was to be the next victim of Vladimir. However, I put an end to him before he got the chance. I have this feeling that I was meant to save him, though right now I do not understand why," as he answered his question, he patted him on the shoulder and walked past him to his chair near the elegant-looking fireplace.
A maid approached him not long after he sat down to relax. She brought him on a tray, a cup filled with a red liquid. He smiled at her, accepting the cup from her, and dismissed her soon after. As the maid left the room Ignatius approached Necros, " M'lord, I thank you for your kind words and for continuing your trust in me. I can't help but wonder though, M'Lord, with so many safe houses why bring him here instead?"
Necros let out a slight laugh and looked at his butler," I suppose you are right, I could have brought him to a human safe house, yet he intrigues me. For one that can walk among the day, he obsesses over our world instead, unaware of the dangers within it. I suppose I wish to know more about him. I expect he will wake to a shock, be as you always are Ignatius, and be there to help him whenever he needs it while he is here. I, however, must retire to my room," he told Ignatius as he stood from his chair.
He handed his cup to his butler and pulled a book from a collection of books that decorated the fireplace. Once he did, part of the wall moved to reveal a set of stairs leading towards the basement. He paused at the secret doorway," Besides, what kind of vampire would I be if I allowed him to be killed? That would make it true that vampires were horrible creatures, and that I can't allow," he smiled playfully as he said this and headed down the staircase, the bookcase from the fireplace closing behind him.
Ignatius couldn't help but smile after his master. Of all the vampires he had met Necros was the only one that has been determined to keep the myths just that, myths among humans. Ignatius saw him as a protector of humans, as the world of the night was a very dangerous place to live. A few hours had passed since Necros had left for his chambers. The maids, however, were already getting the young man's meal prepared for him. It wouldn't be long for him to wake from the sleeping spell that Necros had cast upon him. Being as he was a personal guest of Necros, they aimed to make him the best breakfast that they could muster.
Meanwhile, the young man woke from his deep sleep and looked around the room he was in. It was a rather large room with a window overlooking the ocean. He placed his feet on the floor, and not long after, Ignatius walked into the room after knocking, holding a tray with food on it. He smiled at him as he closed the door behind him," Pardon the intrusion, but I thought to bring you something to eat, I am sure you have a lot of questions, but perhaps you can wait on those questions until after you have eaten," he suggested as he placed the tray before the young man.
Unsure of what to say in response, he nodded, thanking him for the food. He looked at the elderly man from head to toe, taking in every detail, " What's your name?" he asked. Ignatius smiled at his cautious behavior, "My name is Ignatius, I am the head butler here if you have questions, ask me and I will answer what I am able. Lord Necros will not be available until the late evening. You may explore as you wish, once you finish eating I will show you where you may not go," Ignatius smiled once more.
Ignatius looked at him and paused for a moment, " Though, if I may ask young man, what is your name?" he asked, folding his hands across his torso. "Ventis, my name is Ventis," he responded after he took a small drink of his orange juice. Ignatius nodded," Well, Ventis, I will be helping the maids in the kitchen if you need my help. It is close to this room, but if you get lost find any of the staff and they will help you find me," he told him as he left the room, closing the door just as quietly as when he had entered.
Ventis ran his hand through his hair as he thought for a moment while eating his food, trying to place events in his mind. He tried to piece together how he had come to be in this room, in this strange place. The head butler had seemed like a kind person, but something about him seemed superficial, almost as if he was hiding many things. He tried to not think too much about it as he finished his meal. He then stood and looked around the room more. He figured that he should first learn of the places that were off limits before exploring the place.
On the way out of the room, he noticed a fresh set of clothes on a dresser near his bed. A pair of pants and a nice button-up shirt, not his style, he thought to himself, but it will do for now, not like he had anything else to wear. As soon as he changed clothes, he made his way towards the kitchen where the butler had said he would be. His mind kept wondering why he even was here, but he would have to wait until the vampire was awake to get some answers.
He soon found himself in the kitchen. One of the maids led him to Ignatius. Seeing that he came to seek him out instead of snooping around made Ignatius rather happy. Many humans, if they were in the situation Ventis found himself in, would have snooped around instead of coming to find him like he had asked. He smiled at the boy and asked," Did you like your meal, Ventis?" he nodded," Good, good. I am glad to see the outfit I set out for you fits. I know it is probably not something you would normally wear, but for now, it will do. I will have the maids clean the clothes you were wearing," he told him with a smile as he motioned at a nearby maid. She nodded and left for the room Ventis had been staying in.
As promised, once the maid left the kitchen, Ignatius showed Ventis around, showing him where the bathrooms were, the sitting room and then explaining which door lead where. It was almost too much to keep up with. This place was immense compared to the college campus he had been staying at. He hoped that he would be free to go once he met with the master of the castle, so to speak, but he had this sickly feeling that things would not go how he hoped. It wasn't until late evening that Ignatius had finished showing him around, though Ventis was sure that was intentional he doubted he would admit it if he were to ask.
For an elderly man, Ignatius was sly. Ignatius had taken him on the route around the manor that would finish at the living room and had been for the best as he had just heard the bookcase entryway close. As they heard it closing, Ignatius lead Ventis towards the living room and front door of the manor. As they approached the living room Necros was waiting by his armchair in front of the fireplace.
"Ah, it is good to see that you are up and about, I trust that my butler showed you a good time on the tour?" he asked with a smile. Ventis nodded, he was unsure if this man could be trusted, but with how he saw him kill that vampire, he was wasn't about to push his buttons. Necros noticed how guarded he was, though he did not blame him after what he had seen. He invited him to sit with him in the living room," Please, sit. I would like to talk to you. Tell me, what is your name, young man?" Necros smiled despite feeling the strong tension from the boy.
Ventis hesitantly followed him to the living room, taking a place on the couch close to the armchair. Instead of sitting in his chair, Necros chose another armchair, close to the couch, awaiting the response from the human. After a long pause, he decided it was best to answer his question," My name is Ventis," he told him in a rather quiet voice.
He was afraid that this encounter could turn out like the last one he had with the other vampire. He didn't want to be anyone's dinner; he had so much that he wanted to do in his life. Ventis looked Necros from head to toe, sizing him up, as if trying to determine how much danger he was in with this man. Did he run? Or should he simply wait and see what happens? These were the two thoughts racing across his mind at the moment. Sensing his anxiety, Necros laughed. " You need not be so nervous, Ventis. If I planned to hurt you, I wouldn't have brought you to my home to do it," Necros assured him as he took a small teacup that a maid had offered him.
He smiled over at Ventis as he dismissed the maid. He had barely met the human, and he was already enjoying his company, though this was because of his reactions to him. It had been so long since he had had any company in his home. The maid came around to where Ventis was sitting once Necros dismissed her; she placed a tv tray with food on it in front of him, Ventis thanked her with a nervous smile, she nodded at him returning the smile and walked off towards the kitchen.
As he ate his food, Ventis had only one question on his mind, he looked at Necros hard for a moment, then finally asked him the question he was burning to ask," You are the same as the guy that tried to kill me, aren't you?" This question didn't seem to surprise Necros," Yes, and no." He answered, pausing before finishing his response, thinking how to word it so he wouldn't confuse Ventis." We are of the same species yes, however, the one you met was what we call a rogue vampire. He lost all sense of himself, his pride and dignity, he cared only for the thrill of the hunt and the taste of his prey, he was all but dead even before I laid him to rest," Necros told him with a serious look. Ventis took this in for a moment, remembering everything that had happened," Why did you bring me here, though?" He asked him, feeling rather vulnerable now. Necros looked at him with concern in his eyes," Because you know about us, if I had left you be, you would be at risk of being attacked by another vampire to silence you," he answered him.
Ventis looked taken aback, he was unsure if he wanted to thank him or not; he was unsure if he had really saved him or just kidnapped and imprisoned him. He took a deep breath and let it out before asking his next question, a much simpler one," what is your name? You asked mine, so shouldn't you tell me your name?" Necros couldn't help but let out a laugh with the way he had phrased his question," Yes, I suppose I was rude for not telling you my name first. I apologize, it has been so long since I have had anyone to talk to aside from my butler, " he admitted with a wry smile," My name is Necros, as I am sure you heard from Vladimir," Ventis nodded to confirm what Necros had assumed.
He was curious about him, though he had not noticed he had been watching him for long. However, Necros had noticed, and flashed a smile in his direction as Ventis watched him. Feeling uncomfortable with being studied so much, Necros looked over at Ignatius as if to call him over. Ignatius rushed over to the two of them," It seems to be late, Ventis. Perhaps it is time for you to turn in for the night," he advised him, though it seemed to be more of an order than a suggestion, Ventis nodded in understanding and stood from where he sat," It was nice talking with you, Necros. Thank you for answering my questions and saving me. Though, I must ask, how long must I stay here? I can't just skip classes, you know," he told him, exasperated. Necros thought for a moment," I will have Ignatius talk to your school tomorrow, for now, do your studies here until I can be sure that there are no stragglers searching for you," he told him, not giving him any room to protest.
As he watched them head for Ventis's room, he stood and walked to the front door. He thought for a moment and looked at the two. He could only hope that he could keep the human safe here. It never took long for others of his kin to know when they were taking care of a human. He thought about warning Ventis, about ignoring the rules Ignatius set for him, but let it be for now, as he had a lot to let sink in. For the moment, he would just let him think over what they had talked about.
As they reached his room, Ventis walked right to the bed, falling on it face first. His brain felt so overloaded, he didn't know what to think about the conversation he had with Necros. Though his questions had been answered, there had been a dangerous edge to each answer. It was as if he was not answering but giving warnings with his answer. Not wanting to think more about it for the moment, he allowed himself to fall into a deep sleep. He hadn't even realized just how tired he had been. Though he partially wanted to fight it, he allowed sleep to take him.
Necros had been wandering around the rooftops, scouting for any wandering vampires in his territory. If there was one thing he didn't tolerate, that was trespassing vampires in his territory. It was a well-known fact that this was his territory. They even taught the newly made vampires that. This was because of his reputation among other vampires, few wanted to deal with him. He was known for protecting humans. Many vampires didn't see the reason for it, since they felt that humans were nothing but food. Many had in fact housed humans just for the convenience of having them nearby to feed off of whenever they wanted.
The following morning, after he had finished his breakfast, Ventis asked Ignatius if he would take him to the library he had heard about from a maid who cleaned his room. Ignatius agreed to do so. He even showed him which areas were in his language and then pointed out those that were not. He had even gone as far as picking out a book on the history of the vampires this had caused Ventis to look at him in surprise," No need for alarm, Ventis. I thought you would like to learn more about the vampires," smiling a bit Ventis nodded and thanked him. He had not expected there to be so much for him to read on in one place.
He stayed in the library reading all day. One maid had got so worried that she went to Ignatius about it. "Ventis, I hear you have been in here all day long, and it has almost been all night, don't you think you should take a break at least?" as he asked him this, Ignatius was surprised to see that he had in fact fallen asleep while reading one of the books he had recommended to him. He smiled at him and after putting the book in its rightful place, carried him to his bed to sleep. He was beginning to see why his master had taken an interest in this human, he was not like other humans, he was beginning to even intrigue him.
Two weeks had gone by since Ventis had arrived in Necros's home. He was seeing it as his home. The library and studio were his favorite places to go during the day, though he tried not to spend all the time there out of fear of a scolding from Ignatius. The last time he had done that, he had fallen asleep and a maid had retrieved Ignatius. This had taken him from his other work, and he often reminded Ventis of this. As Necros had said a while back, Ignatius had got his school work for him, the negotiations had gone well with the school. The agreement was that he would sit in on lectures broadcasted on the internet and Ignatius would bring in finished school work for the time being.
Ventis appreciated his going out of his way like this, but he still wondered how long it was that he would have to live like this. He felt like a caged bird not being allowed to venture outside for others to see. Was he possibly something that Necros wanted to keep just for himself? He was getting cabin fever, so he went outside, where he sat in a garden next to a rather larger water fountain. The fountain had a very large gargoyle at the center, its mouth ajar where the water came out of it. There seemed to be gargoyles or bats all over the courtyard for decoration. The bats he didn't mind so much but the gargoyles creeped him out, he never liked gargoyles, he always thought they were going to eat him.
While Ventis was enjoying the sunshine, Necros was in his room deep in thought. So far, there had been no sign of other vampires that had been in league with Vladimir. Instead of enjoying the fact, it concerned him more. Normally the followers were all over the place, especially after the lead vampire was killed. Necros had gained his power after he had killed him, and normally this would have angered those that followed the fallen vampire. Yet, it was silent, eerily so. Necros was sitting at his desk with his hands folded under his chin, looking at the wall.
Technically, he could release the boy, but what if they were just waiting for him to do so he wondered to himself. Though, he didn't want to release him since he enjoyed his company so much. Perhaps it was time to have another chat with Ventis. It had been a while since they had done so. He didn't want him to feel lonely while in his home, so he decided when Ventis ate his dinner he would sit in with him and talk with him.
Later that night, just as he had planned, Necros met with Ventis in the living room where he invited him for another chat. Ventis smiled as he saw Necros. It had been so long since he had seen him, almost a month. Necros smiled as he saw his happy face," I apologize for having been away for so long, Ventis. I had things to see to, vampires aren't without our own things to do," he told Ventis as he motioned for him to come and sit with him. Over time, Ventis had grown used to Necros coming and going, though he came to enjoy being around him." I was told that you wanted to talk with me tonight," Ventis got right to the point, this did not surprise Necros in the least.
He nodded at him in confirmation," That is right, it has been a while since we have been able to see each other, so I wanted to have dinner with you," Necros admitted with a small smile. Ventis was happy to hear this," Is there something you wanted to talk about in particular though? You seem rather tense," Ventis noticed that something distracted him as he spoke with him. He had forgotten how perceptive humans could be.
"You are very observant, Ventis. Yes, there is something important I wish to speak of with you. First, I want to ask you, do you like it here with me?" That question, Ventis had not been expecting as he looked at Necros wide-eyed. It took him a minute to shake off the surprise of the question. He nodded at Necros," I enjoy staying here very much, Necros though I wish I could see you more. I miss having dinners like this with you," he admitted as he ate some of his dinner.
Necros smiled at him while he ate. "I am happy to hear this, I have seen no signs of danger to you, however, I am still reluctant to release you. I don't want to take you back just for you to be placed in danger again," Necros admitted with a serious expression on his face. Ventis swallowed hard as he listened to him talk and nodded in understanding. He could tell that he cared for his wellbeing, though there still seemed like there was more to it than that, though he couldn't place his finger on what that was. Necros was a very private person, so it was hard to tell what he was feeling.
"I understand, Necros. Thank you for always looking out for me, I hope I am not causing you too much trouble," Ventis responded looking at him. Necros smiled at him wryly. This boy, innocent as he was, had no idea of the fire he played with, without his knowledge. Necros held many secrets from Ventis. For now, it was better that way. Over time, Necros realized that he was drawn to this human and would do anything to keep him safe. That was dangerous. To make him aware of that fact was even more dangerous. Ventis could not guard his mind against enemy vampires, as he could. Until he had a means to protect himself, Necros did not intend on telling him this. Ventis looked his way a few times while he was in deep thought without his realizing.
" Are you ok, Necros?" he asked him causing him to jump," Oh, yes I am fine Ventis, my apologies I seem to have gone into deep thought without meaning to," he looked at Ventis rather embarrassed at being caught so unaware. "How have your studies been going? If you need a private tutor, let Ignatius know if you cannot tell me and I will see it done," Necros told him, changing the subject. Ventis looked at him in surprise and told him," Oh, they are going well, though I am often asked when I will return to the dorm," he admitted.
Necros thought on that for a moment. That was the other problem he was facing, the term would soon end and he couldn't keep using the dorm if he was not staying there. He often forgot that Ventis had friends that worried about him, he would have to think about this later. " I will send Ignatius to talk to your headmaster about it," he told Ventis, not looking at him in the eye. This caused Ventis to raise his eyebrow at him. This was unusual for him, Necros was one to always follow social normality, yet here he was not making eye contact.
As Ventis finished his dinner Necros stood from his chair, " I apologize for being so distracted tonight, there is a lot on my mind right now. I will try to see you sooner than I did this time. Be sure to take care of yourself and follow what Ignatius tells you, I am tired so I am going to bed," he told Ventis as he patted him on the head. This often made him grunt in disapproval, but he found it rather cute. He dropped his hand from his head, moved to the fireplace opening the secret stairway, and descended to his room.
Ventis watched as he did so, a frown showing on his face. Something had to be bothering him, but there was no getting Necros to talk to him about things on his mind and this often bothered him. He looked up at Ignatius who held a concerned look," Don't worry Ventis, I will speak with him later in your behalf," Ignatius told him with a wry smile. This often made his concern move to the side for the time being.
Later that night, Ignatius met with Necros in his chambers," You grow more and more obvious to the boy, M'Lord. You must decide something and soon, it is not fair to either of you for you to act like this," Ignatius scolded. Necros looked at Ignatius," If you think it is love that I feel, then you are mistaken. I just don't want to let him go, don't think I love him though," Necros snapped. Ignatius was taken aback but chuckled and shook his head," As you order, M'Lord," he muttered in resignation. Necros rested his chin on his fist as his elbow rested on the arm of his desk chair," I feel uneasy, Ignatius. As if something is about to happen that will pull the rug from beneath my feet," he admitted to him quietly. Ignatius's eyes went wide. It was rare when his master admitted weakness like this.
"I hope for that boy's sake that nothing like that happens, remember to never forget about the one you fear the most," Ignatius prodded. Necros looked over at his butler and slowly nodded," Yes, I know. He is what has me concerned, of all Nosferatu, he is the only one that I cannot track. He never claims territory and goes where he pleases. He is very dangerous, that brother of mine, and he is the reason I keep my mind closed to all. If I release Ventis, he would be the first to know, and that is my greatest fear," he admitted.
Out there in the night was his brother, Armand. Unlike him, he was highly unpredictable and dangerous. He would do anything to destroy Necros. This was something that he was sure to always keep in mind with all he did. His mind kept tightly closed so that his brother couldn't pick up on his thoughts as they weren't just any brothers, they were twins so Armand could gain access to his mind through that twin connection.
"M'Lord, if you were to claim him..." before he could finish his sentence Necros shot up from his chair," Do not mention that very thought again! Your intentions as they may be good will only bring harm to that human. Claiming him is the same as placing a target on his back for my brother!" he shouted at his butler, furious that he would even consider such a thing as claiming him. To claim him would be to mark him as his meaning that he would be under his protection. A mark would appear on his body and this would be a way to lead Armand to Necros and tying a link between the two.
In Armand's mind, that'd be a sign of weakness, a target to attack to get to his twin. Ignatius stepped back bowing," Forgive me, M'Lord. I thought that would better protect him," his hair draped over his shoulder as he bowed. Necros shook his head, placing his thumb and forefinger at the bridge of his nose, pinching it. " Raise your head, I did not mean to shout at you, I apologize. But what you advise would cause him more harm. It would show him he and I were linked and thus making him a target for him to get to me," Necros explained now more calmly. Ignatius nodded wide-eyed, now understanding why he had lost his temper. To advise something like that was the same as telling him to kill the boy.
The following day, Ignatius was planning to leave to do some shopping, Ventis had caught wind of this and ran over to him as he got ready to leave" Please Ignatius, take me with you this time," he pleaded. Ignatius sighed as he looked at him," You know I cannot, I am not a fighter and if something were to happen to you, I'd be the one facing the wrath of Lord Necros," Ignatius informed him as he always did whenever he was to go shopping. "But, Ignatius, I am tired of being cooped up here. The garden is nice, but I want to be out around people," he whined at him.
Ignatius sighed once more. He didn't know if he could convince him to stay this time. Each time got increasingly more difficult to do so. He eventually caved," Only if you stay with me at all times and do whatever I ask you to," he told Ventis sternly. He was unsure if he had been listening as Ventis was leaping happily for being able to get out of the mansion for the first time in months. It was not like Necros did it without good reason, he just hoped that he would go unpunished for this. He had Ventis wait in the courtyard as he pulled the car around, and then the two of them left for town together. Ignatius could only pray that there were no incidents while they were out.
Once they got to town, Ignatius came to find that Ventis was much like a puppy as he went this way and that in excitement. There were several small stands selling many things, it was a little marketplace. Ventis had thought he would go to the main town, but instead was brought to a small marketplace where humans that lived with vampires sold goods. It was like a small community of human pets of vampires. Many greeted Ignatius as he walked with Ventis. He was well known here and had introduced a few people to Ventis.
Later on their trip, they visited an old friend of Ignatius's. He was an elderly man much like Ignatius, though he had short hair that looked unkempt. Many didn't take the man seriously, as he often prattled on about the brother of Necros, so no one believed him anymore. That is everyone but Ignatius. He took what he said seriously, as part of his job was to keep an ear out for any news on Armand.
"Marquis, how good to see you," Ignatius said in a cheerful tone as he and the other man greeted each other. They gave each other a firm handshake," This is Ventis, he is staying with us for the time being," he told the man as he noticed him eyeing the boy suspiciously. " I see, well Ventis, it is nice to meet you. Don't give this old oaf too much trouble, ya hear? He overworks as it is," the man told Ventis as he clapped him on the shoulder.
Unsure of what to say, Ventis nodded to show that he was listening. " Good, good. Now, Ignatius, you and the boy should come inside so we can talk without ears to listen in," he told him as his expression grew serious. Ignatius nodded and motioned for Ventis to go in and then followed in after him. That was the key phrase used when Marquis had information to give, Ignatius hoped it wasn't bad news.
Inside the building, it looked like a place between that of a Romani and fanatical occultist. It was hard to tell which started where and where the other ended. Marquis motioned for them to sit on a nearby couch. He took off his long overcoat that looked like it had seen too many winters with rips and tears through the leather of the jacket up and down it. His clothing wasn't much better, a pair of old jeans with holes through it and a torn black shirt. Ventis thought he looked like a bum you would often see on the side of the road begging for money.
Once he closed the door, he looked at Ignatius with his faded grey eyes. " After this, you shouldn't bring his pet with you anymore," he began as he jerked his head over at Ventis," I already told you, Marquis, he's not his pet-," before he could finish his protest he was cut off," Armand is here. That much I can tell you, pet or not, if he is tied to your master he is in danger. You know this, I know this. So use your head and take him home." The other man snapped.
Ignatius looked at him wide-eyed," You are sure that he is here? In town?" He asked urgently. Marquis nodded," Yes, he is here. Where I don't know, but he was always a master at blending. So do yourself a favor and get yourself back to your Master before he has to come to find your broken body," he told Ignatius with a now calmer tone. He looked at Ignatius fondly with concern," We have known each other for a long time, so do nothing that can get you killed. I don't care if you have to protect that boy." He grunted as he jerked his head over at Ventis once again.
He was wondering if he should feel offended by this or not. Ignatius thought for a moment then nodded understanding what he was saying," Thank you for the timely warning, my friend, I will let my master know of the dangers, given the circumstances as they are, we must get back. Keep yourself safe, my friend," Ignatius told Marquis as he shook his hand once again and ushered Ventis outside.
Once outside, Ignatius looked over at Ventis, " You heard him. You stick with me at all times, even more so than before. We have to make it back before he makes his move, Armand is not a vampire you trifle with," Ignatius told Ventis. A visible amount of sweat was seen showing just how nervous and panicked he was. Seeing this, Ventis nodded in understanding. He had never seen him so unsettled and frightened before. They then made their way through the town to the vehicle. Ignatius didn't bother warning the people, they never believed him if the source of information had been Marquis.
Besides, he did not have the time to stop and warn every person or make a public announcement. Both would cause delays that he could not afford his mission now was to get the two of them home safely. If anything were to happen to Ventis, it would be his head. This was precisely why he did not want to bring Ventis with him on these outings. It was a perfect setting for Armand to start something.
As they hurried towards the car, staying as close together as the two of them could manage, it felt as if they were being followed. A cold sweat went down their backs, as they felt a cold shiver down their spines. Not far behind them, cold red eyes followed them. A man that looked much like Necros followed the humans. He wore a cloak to conceal himself from the onlookers. A cold smile spread across the man's face as he had found his next prey. This would be easy pickings, the man thought to himself as he continued to stalk his prey.
Once Ignatius had finally reached the car and opened the door, the car suddenly slid across the road to the other side. This caused him to look around wide-eyed. He had hoped he was not so close to them, but there he stood at the entrance of the marketplace. A sinister grin spreading across his face as his eyes locked onto Ignatius and Ventis, though they kept returning to Ventis. Seeing this, Ignatius thrust Ventis behind him to protect him from the sinister vampire.
"Ignatius, how old you have become and yet you still plan to protect this boy?" He walked closer to the two of them, his sinister grin not moving from his face. " I don't know what you want, Armand but you know your brother doesn't want you around him nor those under his care, now if you would please excuse us we really oughta be getting back, dinner won't cook itself," Ignatius responded to him, his voice cracking as he did so. Armand let out a roar of laughter," You think dinner is all you have to worry about? Seeing how you are protecting this boy, I think it is safe to say that he is my brother's newest pet," as he looked at Ventis once again he vanished and reappeared between the two of them, separating them.
Ignatius tried to regain his grasp on Ventis but was pushed away by Armand," I think I will keep him for the time being. If my dearest brother wants him back, he will have to take him from me, he will know where to find me," Armand told Ignatius with that same sinister smile on his face. As he grabbed Ventis and pulled him into his grasp he looked him in the eyes and caused him to pass out. He then disappeared into a swirl of dark energy.
Shaking, Ignatius fell to his knees. He had failed his master in protecting that which he held dear. He would have to report this right away before Armand harmed the boy. As that thought crossed his mind, he rushed over to the car and raced back to the manor. Once he arrived, he ran inside to the chambers of his master.
Breathless, he threw the door open," I apologize M'Lord, but it is an emergency," he informed him, breathing hard at the threshold of the door. Necros snapped close the book he had been reading and looked up at Ignatius with an irritated expression, " You did something you should not have, didn't you?" he asked as he turned his chair to face Ignatius holding a dangerous expression.