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 Posted: Sun May 05, 2013 4:59 pm
Roleplay done over AIM by Biki and Vamps.
Location :: Makai. Marcus' Castle.
Akemi's word count :: 4915
Marcus' word count :: 5230
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Posted: Sun May 05, 2013 5:27 pm
Akemi was beyond pleased with herself, she had come across supper! It was sunrise when the she-b***h left the city, sent on a mission to explore the Rift and bring back the head of one of the creatures that lurked within. Honestly, she was getting sick of this s**t. The Blackhearts had her doing all kinds of pointless tasks, justifying them as tests of her ability. They did not take her seriously yet and she knew this most recent mission was just another ploy to get rid of her for a few days. She would show them.
She sighed, taking another bite out of the apple she was currently munching. She had come across a girl in the woods; one of those pretty ones all dressed in lace and ruffles, curves in all the right places, long flowing locks.... totally uninteresting. On looking a little closer she noticed she was carrying a basket, filled with freshly picked fruit and herbs. Akemi's constant hunger had gotten the best of her. She had scared off the girl, stolen her basket and in a flash climbed the closest tree for some privacy. She had been indulging in the spoils for the past quarter of hour. It was getting dark, maybe she should start thinking about finding shelter for the night.
Then again... Maybe a nocturnal hunt would be better?
Marcus sat back in his throne, a stolen ornate chair that sat in the reception hall, a self styled king over shadows- yet he’d never let such a name pass his lips. Neither a fool nor a king, he was a lord at best, commanding what he had, reaching out to gather more. Marcus was a creature of habit, and his more recent one had been lounging in his styled throne, musing over what he might do next to expand his little majin forces. But he didn’t get to muse for long, spinning an old quill in had his first guest of the night had the honor, the privilege of a private audience. So young, so supple and ripe- trembling like a leaf before him, begging his forgiveness for her fear, that she fled in the face of a wild woman.
Marcus just smiled, drawing her close, asking where the little fawn had been when she encountered this wild woman, the ‘she-wolf’ as they were described. The edge of his lands, she was one of his own servants, just a modest gardener, she was hired by the grounds keeper, really there was no need to fuss over her- but he did- setting her to be his personal little maid in the castle for the next few days. How long she remained chaste.. hard to say, he doubted he could hold back from such a sweet thing for so long. Blood and magic was far too sweet a thing.
Not bothering with company, the spiritus made his way to the location is question. A wild woman, a ‘she-wolf’ the vampire chose to cross his domain on four legs, the feeling of playing the part of beast always a thrill. Shifting back as he arrived to the location in question, he dusted off his coat, eyes scanning the darkness. “Come out, come out, where ever you all. It’s no fun if I have to track you down.”
Before long, she once again had company; her fluffy red ears twitched at the sound of the others voice. “Hmm?” A small humming noise escaped her throat curiously, her head tilting to one side in an almost lazy manor. With another bite the apple was down to its core, she threw it in the others direction in order to indicate her own. “Don’t act as if I am hiding if you are too lazy to look.” She stated, leaning forward and falling until her feet landed firmly on the ground.
She threw the basket towards the man before she rested a hand on her hip. “I am guessing that belongs to your friend.” She stated with quite a devilish smirk. The women of this country, so easy to scare, so dependent on their males...
Only one or two had come to surprise her, the rest seemed like a docile race. She loved scaring them, many a maiden she had threatened to drag into the forest, take them for her own and then eat them. Monsters, people saw them everywhere these days. The red orb visible through her mask glowed deeper, on closer inspection, this was no ordinary witch. He had an interesting look about him, maybe she would have moved on if that was the case, alas her curiosity spiked. “That is a rather interesting set of ears you have.” She stated, raising a hand to point to her own.
The apple core rolled to his feet, and Marcus’s lip twitched up into almost a smirk. A tiny prod with his boot, the spiritus folded his hands behind his back, watching her with a curious stare. What an interesting little thing come traipsing into his domain, cute, almost, if she would be less mouthy. “Why look when it’s so much easier to have you signal where you are?” The smirk was fully formed as the basket was tossed to his feet, reaching down to pick it up then toss it behind him. He had no use for it. Not like one could carry blood in a basket after all.
Running his eyes over her, appraising, a tiny nod of approval had him bowing just slightly. “Marcus. The resident… lord of these lands. If the lands were to have a lord.” He was the next best thing really. An idle shrug, he motioned her to follow him, walk with him. “I have a distinct lack of friends. Pets, wards, playthings. Friend is not a word I use lightly. Actually, I don’t really use it at all.” A low chuckle, he looked to her, stalking a bit closer to inspect her gaze. “But perhaps you will change that? As for my ears-“ he reached up to touch her own. “May I? I don’t think I have any like you in my… collection.”
“A Lord huh?” She cocked her head to the side, slightly amused by his comment. She looked down at her short kimono, picking up the sides and giving... the best curtsey she could giving the material she was working with, though it was more of a joke than a genuine act. “Akemi.... No title. No lands - Nothing.” She shrugged before she took the hint and started to follow, arms resting behind her head casually.
“I see. That is a rather odd set-up you have going on there. Though, each to their own. You are clearly doing fine without.” She stated. Playthings? Something told her he was not talking about chess. Was he some kind of brothel owner or Dominant? She raised her eyebrow at his suggestion; she has asked if the other girl was his friend, not if she could become one. “Really? Why would I change that if you have lived up to now without? I doubt you have been waiting around all these years for me to come and make a break-through that nobody else has managed.”
Then his hands came towards her and she found herself stopping and standing back slightly, her own hands reaching up to flatten them against her head. “N-no. You don’t just meet a girl and ask to touch her ears! No wonder you don’t have any friends! I mean you have not even offered me cake or anything.” He decided to leave out the fact about it being rather pleasurable. There was nothing like a good tickle behind your ears from time to time.
“Oh but sweet thing, you do have something.” Marcus purred, motioning down her body. “Your beauty for one. Blood for another. But-“ He pulled away from her, clearly amused. “That all depends on what you’re willing to give, barter, trade. Body and blood- such precious things- they often deserve something in equal and fair value.” The grass underfoot gave way to small wildflowers, the colors muted in the dark- crushed under Marcus’s boot without a single care in the world. This was his land. He cared not for such small things. They were his to kill, his to let live. His dominion- it was a warming thought to the vampire.
She was interesting, the faces she made, and those ears- he wasn’t sure how he felt about the ears other than he wanted to touch them, stroke them, see what they would make her do. A new little mystery to unravel. “Things change, and I do try to never miss an opportunity when it presents itself. Such as now. Who is to say that you will… Sway my thinking? Most women do not try to become friends. They always want more, such needy little things they are. I adore them, but they ask what I lack.” A hand over his chest, the blessed silence of being without the constant pounding of a heartbeat.
A wide Cheshire grin, Marcus leaned down. “I’ll let you touch mine if I can touch your own? If I had any cake on hand I’d offer it, but, that would wait until we got home.”
“You sound like an experienced trader when it comes to such things. Tell me, how much does beauty and blood go for these days?” Akemi asked rather curiously. What an interesting concept. She did not know either was worth very much at all. Maybe she had been overlooking some grand opportunity all this time, maybe he had some leverage that came free to her.
What a strange man. Never the less, his comments on women shamed her. The people of this country, they were always keen to disappoint. Were the females of this land so weak? “I don’t know. What if I do not want to say your thinking? Your life is none of my business, and wanting to change the views of a man I know nothing about.... well, it does not sound right to me. I mean, I do not have many -if any- friends myself, it would seem almost hypocritical.” She shrugged. Ruria was the closest thing she had to a friend, and she barely knew her. Loneliness had never bothered the she-wolf before, she did not see solitude and disconnection as the huge heartache that others did.
It was character building, if anything.
“It is every creature’s nature to want more. Though, I am curious, what is it that you lack?” She stated, stopping to converse with the man some more, only to have his taller frame looming over her. “Well then, I suppose that is only fair.” She mumbled to herself, what was the worst that could happen? Truthfully, she did not want to touch his ears as much as she wanted the promise of cake when they got to his home. She went to reach up to his face, but then stopped. Home? “Is that where we are going?”
He laughed, though mirth was devoid in his eyes. “Depends on how much you offer. A night of company has made me lenient enough to grant clemency and shelter for a few people for a few days. A few drops of blood for a lavish meal- Beauty and blood fetch a high price from me, but then I tend to value such things highly and covet them.” He spoke of such things casually, as if it meant nothing at all, mostly as to him it was everyday business. Not like he’d get in trouble with anyone. The worst he faced… angry brothers and fathers and husbands. Not his fault. He did on occasion get the angry wife, mother or sister- those were always the fun ones. A break from the norm.
“For a few drops of blood- name you price. You scare a woman of my lands for her fruits? Perhaps A four course meal? A nice warm bed? A day’s rest? All I want is a few drops of that sweet red is all. As for my thinking… well then so be it. I will be as I ever have been.” Fangs glinted in the light of the moon, “It is a rather enjoyable… life I live. If you’d not be a friend then would the offer of companion, of ally, entice? I am always looking to bolster my forces, gather those who feel that this world is in need of a little change. A bit on a more.. wild side. A side where one might be free from the bonds of mankind. The little lies they tell, their false claims of this and that. So… contradictory, humans. Delightful specimens.”
“…Hmm.. It is still a small way’s until my castle. I might carry you, to speed the process, but, perhaps you would like a run better? Oh-“ He reached out, pulling her hand and placing it to his chest, cold as the night air. “I lack a still beating heart.” His fingers went to the tip of her ear, quickly trailing it down her fur and hair until cupping her chin. “My place or your’s. Either works for me.”
“I see. Interesting.” Akemi rested a hand on her chin, her eyes serious, consumed by thought. It seemed there was a price for everything these days. Still, it was worth knowing the value of all your assets. You never know when such information might come in use.
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She rested a hand on her hip, smirking at his offer. Name her price? He would regret that. “I am afraid I am a little tougher to bargain with. The meal, bath and bed will be donated by you generously in order to open negotiations. Though I assure you, if you can provide me what I want, then you will receive more than a few drops.” Her eyes glistened mischievously, there was only one thing in this world Akemi wanted, and to be quite blunt she would allow this creature to drain her to an inch of her life if he could grant her it. Was he some kind of genie? She wondered. No, but he was powerful. She could sense that.
.
“If you are such a business man, that small show of good faith would well be worth the profit that could await you, yes?”
,
She caught sight of his fangs, she was right, he was no normal witch. So what was he? The question enticed her somewhat. “It seems like our ambitions are already somewhat interlinked.” She let out a light chuckle, she was always weary of making bonds with others, at the end of the day she was a woman who acted out of her own interest. Never the less, he seemed to be fighting for the same tomorrow she was. A word far more feral than the one she was trapped in.
In that moment she was dragged towards him, her hand resting on his chest. He was cold. Her eyes widened slightly, he was right! There was no heartbeat! Her head snapped up to look at him; she had never met this kind of creature before! Was he a demon? Demons could grant great wished! Or so she was told.
She paused as his finger touched her ear, her body shuddering and her breath hitching in her throat. Her ears were a new addition; the sensation was still so new and raw. She stepped closer to him, an excited look painted on her face. “Well then. Your place it is, M’lord. We have things to discuss, it seems.” She was not going to miss this chance. It was not every day you got to dance with the devil.
He wondered how much she saw. Did she see how the stars flickered like little reflections of life, little human souls fighting in this world trying to survive, fighting fate and for love and lies of freedom. Magnificent. He wondered his she saw the birds of the night, hiding in trees, waiting for mice to scamper here and there gathering their seeds and such only to be snatched up? Life was so vivid to him, night or no.
“A bed, meal and bath, just to open negotiations?” Blue eyes narrowed just slightly as he grinned. She knew what she wanted and would carve it out for all to see. How very refreshing from his typical guests. “A hard bargain, but fair. You have no reason to trust me or that what I offer is of quality. A bed, bath, and meal. I would offer myself as company, but I think I have other matters to deal with...” He bit his thumb in thought before shrugging. “You’ll have what you desire, as I will have mine in due time. The wait will make your blood taste all the more sweeter. Once gained, hard to say if you might raise my bloodlust and hunger, I was quite addicted to this one young man once upon a time. Sadly, he didn’t like my way of negotiations, and demanded his blood back. Tricky business. When I returned it.. poor man died. Alas, while I might drink freely, others are not so fortunate.”
Her shock had him smiling, very clearly amused. Yes, he liked her decided. Reactive, willing to ask, demand for what she wanted. And her ears were still a mystery to him. “You look almost like you’re surprised. Never met a dead man before or rather… never met a Spiritus before?” He kissed the back of her knuckles before pulling away. “Does that change your mind of me and my offer? For some it does other… it just makes my offer all the more enticing.”
“Indeed.” She nodded, refusing to budge on the basics, she had a minimum requirement and that was nonnegotiable. Luckily for her, he seemed to take said news rather well. “I am willing to take a chance, if your services are not of a quality I fully intend to walk away from our arrangements.” She nodded firmly. She was never one to show weakness, especially when she was playing a game. She was determined to come out of this situation with the best possible deal!
He had other matters to deal with? That was fine, she never asked for his company and a little bit of peace and quiet would get her in the right mindset, let her collect her thoughts and come up with a battle strategy for when their wits collided. She listened to his story, listened to his words, was he trying to intimidate her? No, he was playing a game also. “I am a woman of my word, when something is taken I will not be wanting it back, only idiots come to regret their actions. I assure you I am no idiot. Besides... who said you would like the way -I- negotiate, hmm?” She winked.
“I have never seen a dead man talk.” She replied. “I have met a Spiritus, briefly. He felt very much alive, unlike you. You are full of surprises it seems.” She stated, looking away rather awkwardly as he kissed her knuckles, not used to such gentle shows of affection. Her eyes snapped back over to him quickly though, that playful smirk arising on her lips. “This changes nothing. I will not be distracted by what you are; my eyes are firmly set on what you have to offer. Everything else... variables, at best.”
Akemi stepped forward. "So, shall we get going? The sooner I am in the tub, the sooner you can go about your.... things."
He drew back, mockingly acting at having been struck in the heart by her words. His services? Anything but quality? Marcus would never stand for such. He would sooner bit his tongue out of his own mouth than allow such things under his command. His guests were to be treated with the upmost care, the tenderest of touches and catered to… until they ran out their usefulness or bored him. His toys did live such fragile, precarious lives. “Chance is what makes this world interesting. Its part of why I stay while so many others have gone. That and, no king well, it just means I have more things I can do. I do hope however that you will stay with us, if just for a day or so.”
Good company was so hard to find. At least the exciting an non-mundane kind. “I doubt you are a foolish one. Those who wander often are not. Their lot is one of survival, and fool’s actions would meet them with a fool’s end. As for your style of negotiations… I will look forward to it. Will it have a taste test to check for quality.. on both ends?” He licked his lips. A few drops to wet his appetite, he could go for that. Keeping stride, the castle was just into view, and for a while he remained silent, walking, hands behind his back, enjoying the cold night air and wind chilling him further. All the better, he could have an excuse to wrap himself in furs later. “Death is an interesting thing.” He said after a while, keeping his gaze on his home. “I’ve never met him, yet I’m told I am dead. Yet this life is all I have known. Some would call me a devil, a monster, yet am I to be blamed for merely being what I am? Humans fear what they cannot understand. So, I am to understand them better, perhaps educate them. Spiritus and Human- they are not so different. We might both love and loss… some more than others. Some choose nothing, others choose all. I did not choose this, yet I accept it as who I am. Their persecution is a strange thing. My actions are my own, but I cannot change what I am…” He looked down to her. “You understand?”
Perhaps she did, perhaps she did not.
“A bath first for you, furs for me- then was can open negotiations hrm?”
“We shall see. I do not promise anything just yet, but the offer is considered... and appreciated.” Stay for a few days? Well, it was not like she had anything better to do. It depended on the quality of his food, the softness of his bed and the deal they would strike. Anything could happen at the moment. It was exciting; it was hard for her to control her heartbeat or the spark that could be seen in her eyes.
Before long his home came into view, she stopped a moment, took back by its grandeur. Yet she soon snapped herself out of it and continued to follow after the Spiritus. “Of course, a sample will be provided. Patience M’Lord. The night is still young!” She shook her finger, almost in a motion to scold him. She was not giving away any free samples; the longer he waited the sweeter she would taste - the better deal he might be willing to make.
Akemi listened to him as they walked. Monsters? Devils? They rang a familiar tone. It brought back memories of pitch folks, the smell of smoke, howls of abuse and vile words. “Yes. I understand.” She stated rather bitterly. Destiny was something that had plagued her existence for far too long, she too had suffered under the circumstances of her birth. “It seems you have a mission ahead of you. Me on the other hand, I am quite content with being a monster. Maybe if I showed them how horrifying their kin can be, they will stop looking at you in such a light? They are always more reluctant, to see the evil in their own kind. It is easy to blame a monster.” She shrugged.
Wanting to lighten the mood he ran ahead into the entrance, the girl from before stepped back slightly, shocked to see her by the looks of things. “Sounds like a plan. I am sure you will seek me out when your business is done?” She asked, resting a hand on her hip before turning to the girl. “Your Lord has offered me a bath and a room, would you be so kind?” Akemi winked at the girl, who nervously looked her masters way before walking ahead to act as a guide.
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Akemi looked at Marcus, tilting her head to the side and making a small peace sign. “Do not be too long. You will not have as much fun if you leave me to get tired and grouchy!”
An eye brow raised, Marcus shrugged thinking back on his furs. Would it be fun to gather them all and toss them on his ‘throne’ and lounge? Maybe. He would try it sooner or later. It was worth a short. “Hrm?” He caught her staring, looking at his home with a squint. It was just a larger house made with more stone. Really, it wasn’t that special. Not to him anyway. Then again he hadn’t changed from it in a long time. Maybe he could go for a tiny hovel one day. Just to see what it was like… even if he didn’t think he could fit his things in it, it would be worth a shot. Nothing ventured, nothing gained.
What were they discussing again?
Oh right. Their arraignment. While it might have been fun to discuss how the night was forever young, the sun more a thing forever aging and dying, he bit it back. It was a boring conversation, and mostly, tedious. He disliked the sun, no need to remind himself just how much he hated it’s harsh rays that blinded him. Her offer- “Kin? Oh sweet one, I am… I suppose I am not alone. I have watched humans turn against their own children, run them out into the streets just for being born different. Men and women scorn children born of lover over their ideal of honor and virtue. Humans and monsters- they are really one in the same depending on how you view them. Race, less so, but in the mind? I have met majin far above all their kin, yet still treated like they might be feral and bestial. My mission starts from the ground up. With me at it’s head, I can see things getting better… in time. But then time is something I have in spades. Something the humans have not.”
He looked to her from the corner of his eye. “I would like to see just how monsterous you could be. Try not to get too much blood on anything though. Waste not want not as they say.” Watching her go, the vampire made his way back to his throne, a snap of his fingers and furs started to get piled on the chair. As the piled up he stopped them mid-way, attempting to sit.
It was not as nice as he imagined. It poked him and made it more uncomfortable. A heavy sigh it was worth a try, instead opting for wrapping himself in a blanket, enjoying the feel of it on his skin. But- a few minutes of that and he grew bored with it, draping it over his arm before seeking out his guest, and her guide. Such a pretty little thing, so thankful for his kindness, his generosity. All he did was smile and tell her she could show her appreciation by making a small donation… and having a nice meal brought to Akemi’s chambers.
When he arrived at her room, Marcus didn’t bother knocking simply letting himself in and standing by the door, silent, fur draped over his arm.
Akemi looked at him rather confused. Time? She did not understand the meaning of his words, still unaware of the unnatural life of a Spiritus. She thought for a moment, was it because he was dead? What is dead can never die, yes, she presumed that must be it. Akemi rather disliked this conversation about humans, it was hitting far too close to home for her liking. The she-b***h clenched her fist, nails making an imprint in her palm. Her past might not be the reason why she fought, however the anger she still held towards her family was often called for in the heat of battle. It had made her who she was. In the end she looked away, taking in a deep breath and counting to ten slowly in her head.
“Do not worry, I would never think of making a mess of someone else’s home, or the people that reside in it.” Akemi smirked and looked at the girl, she caught her staring, but her eyes soon flickered away. The wolf girl let out a small chuckle, and followed behind in silence, leaving the Lord to his business.
They arrived at the room in which she would be staying the night. Akemi was not very picky when it came to accommodation, but she could appreciate a nice room, and to her this was a nice room. Then again, she was used to sleeping rough, any room for a nice room to her at this point. With a small bow of her head the girl left, she could not wait to get away it seemed. Akemi smirked; maybe she intimidated her a little? Never the less, when the wolf girl found herself alone she started to go about her own business.
First things first, only one candle was lit in the room, which was far too little light for Akemi’s tastes. The red head opened the curtains to show the moon, and then went about lighting every candle she could find in the room and attached bathroom. When the room was illuminated to her liking she started to draw herself a bath, making sure the water was painfully hot to touch, the girl liked her baths HOT: the kind of baths that made your skin red and steamy whilst causing dizziness. If you could walk in a straight line afterwards she counted the bath as unsatisfying!
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Posted: Sun May 05, 2013 5:28 pm
Marcus was not gone very long at all. Akemi had just had enough time to get changed into a dressing gown that she had found hidden away in the bathroom cupboard (it seemed he took female guests in often). As the door opened she pulled the material over her back and secured the front, turning to face the lord of the castle. “Well, you were not gone very long at all.” She stated, stepping out of the attached bathroom, not before turning off the tap through, she had the feeling she would not be taking the bath for some time now the master had arrived
Akemi wandered over to the bed that had been provided, sitting on the edge rather casually, as if she had already made herself at home. “Does this mean you could not wait any longer for your sample?” She asked with a smirk painted across her face, her fingers made their way to her neck, flicking her hair out of the way rather playfully. “Or have you come to join me in the bath to warm your... body.” The word corpse was on her tongue, but she bit it back. “I can assure you, light headedness will not affect my judgement if that is your plan.”
He stared at her, though it was more through her if anything. “I found my plans did not provide the results I wanted. Too many furs made my chair uncomfortable. So I abandoned that plan.” And his duty to go and hear this and that from those under his protection. He didn’t care, someone would find him if it was a truly important matter. Otherwise one of his various retainers or advisors would tend to the matter. Holding up the fur he frowned. “I forgot- ah wait.” He wrapped himself in the fur before moving to a nearby chair.
“This is much better. Ten furs were nine too many. And no, I am shamed you think so poorly of me… even if it is true.” His grin was an honest one, fangs showing or not. “I don’t like waiting very long for things. Things I want I typically get. I’ve requested a fine meal brought up.” His eyes went to her neck, flicking back to her face. “How curious. You didn’t hesitate when speaking before, yet just now.” He ran his hand down his chin in false contemplation. “Do you fear I will hold what you say against you? That I might revoke my offer over truth? Or do you fear that which I am?” His eyes darkened, tugging off a glove and placing it in one of his pockets.
“I would love to join you, though for a less modest reason.” He didn’t hide his gaze of smile from her. “But that is, all up to you. Our deal is a deal, anything extra will gain you extra in turn. Freely given will be freely taken, as a fair warning.” The other glove pulled off he looked to his nails, almost bored.
“I must admit, you’re a bold woman, that interests me. You had odd ears. This too interests me. Who, or rather what are you little Akemi? What is it that makes you so interesting? Why is you cling to the wild?” Leaning back, his legs crossed. Watching her, he was unsure and his own uncertainty excited him. New and unknown- such a treat of treats.
“Or would you rather I just ignore it, and focus on more obvious things?”
“Sounds good, don’t worry, we will both have full stomachs before long” She nodded, a meal sounded nice, not as nice as that bath though. For once hunger was over-powered by her lust for hot water. Akemi shook her head. “No. I just do not know what the mortally-challenged liked to be called, is it a body, or a corpse? I hear ones wording is very important to you civilized sorts. Besides, I do not scare easily, especially not men wearing ruffles.” She smirked, resting her chin on the palm of her hand, he was so amusing.
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For a less modest reason? How bold. “I have not given myself to any man; that is one thing that will not be freely given. However if you can behave, I see there no reason why we should not bathe and... if it is pleasure you are after, arrangements can be made. As you said, the more you offer, the more you gain.” She stood up from the bed, looking over at the man who was wrapped up in quilts. Did he feel the cold? Did his skin still feel all the sensations of her own? Akemi moved over to the bathroom, turning the tap back on to continue filling the tub, steam was rising. “Well, you have shown me your generosity. I suppose I could provide you with some information in return.”
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She sat on the edge of the bath, wondering where to start. Her story was not one she shared very often. “I do not want to bore you; so I will tell you the short version. I am a Barghest Malificarum, a witch, but one with a technique that is special to my family. I guess you can think of me a little like a werewolf, a little like a ghost. My family was a savage one, we hunted young boys, we stole maidens, terrorized a nearby village for generations, they feared us an d sacrificed many children so our wrath would not fall on them. I was born the Maiden of Baskeville, the heir to the throne, a pure-blood. My line was never tainted by the stolen girls, my line always bred with family members, outside a certain number of generations of course, in order to keep the bloodline pure and our powers strong. Anyway, for various reasons I was seen as an unfit ruler, my father instructed me to die – to take my shame to the grave. I have been defying that order ever since.” She looked away from him for a moment, letting out a small sigh before composing herself once more.
She crossed her legs, she had to remember, this was all still a game and she was still marketing what she had to offer. She let her bath robe fall of her shoulders slightly, arms keeping the material secure to her chest. Akemi might have been a maid, but the idea of flirting and foreplay was not something unknown to her. “So you see. My blood, it’s special, I am a virgin maid and never in my ancestry has of pure-bred laid with anyone other than another one of their kind. As you can imagine, my price will be high, depending on how much of me you want. Everything before you can be bought.”
He tugged at the ruffles with a smile, “I am a man who likes what I like, what can I say? Ruffles are just one of things. And body. Corpses decay. I have not, nor do I expect to in the future. If you scared easily, I think things would have gone very differently. It is very cute when people run. But yes, wording matters. Usually, but I’m not the usual type of ‘upper crust’.” He even used air quotes over the words. “I prefer to think of myself as a free agent, working towards my own goals. No demon king, no king at all really, just a simple man, caring for the lands, the people in them.” Curling into the fur, finger slaced together as she spoke, waiting for a pause.
Maiden still. All the sweeter. Like a rare red wine. “All things have a price.” It came out from habit. “Pardon, habit, I don’t typically hear that a woman is both a maiden and… intending to remain such. Many come to me offering all they have for one reason or another. Usually freedom to make their own choices. Or marry who they want. At which point it’s fun to play with the intended groom. They get so huffy about such a thing, yet it’s not like they are virgins either. Hypocrisy at it’s finest.” The twitch of his lip he thought on her offer. “I can behave. My control is just that control. I might solicit, but nothing beyond what you’d offer.”
Following her to the tub, the steam had him breathing deeply, filling himself with stolen warmth. Watching her, like one cat to another, her story had his attention, eyes widening as she said she was a witch. Licking his lips he was enthralled now. That little bit of information made him reconsider just what he wanted. Blood was good, but magic was just as sweet. “A wild woman indeed. A ‘b***h’.” He held up a hand. “Literally in some ways. I am sorry though, that you have lost such a title. A witch that might become a wolf… No wonder your ears are as they are. As for ghost I’ve never met one. But werewolf… and myself a vampire. An excellent match. Perhaps fate as conspired to bring us together.” He laughed. “It sounds so poetic does it not?”
Watching her move Marcus stroked his chin in contemplation. “A little wandering wolf, a family who cast her aside, feral and untamed. Pure of blood, a maiden, witch- All very desirable. You market your assests well.” Eyes ran to her legs. “All assets. I admit, that entices me more than I had originally though. It also makes you of high value. Not just for me, but many others no doubt. Now it is just a matter of getting to you before they. Obtaining what you can offer me before I might be outbid as it were.”
Eyes moved back to her neck, Marcus was calm in his tone, almost diplomatic even, yet his eyes were nothing but dark and wanting, greedy. “And if I want everything?” He took only one step closer. “What boon would you ask of me then?”
“Call yourself what you will. It is your caste. Your title is your own to choose.” Akemi shrugged, her eyes watching him closely as he approached. All things have a price, true, however some things were more expensive than others. “Don’t worry about it. It is a good line to live by.”
.
Akemi listened to his story, so many traditions, and so many odd ways of going about thinks. In her own opinion, everyone should be allowed to bed who they wanted and the word marriage should be stuck from the world altogether. It seemed to cause so much trouble, surly it was never worth it? “I do not intent to remain such; I just do not think the promise of pleasure is enough to justify ruining me.”
.
She noticed he licked his lips. He was interested it seemed? She smirked. Negotiating was a rather pleasurable experience; it had been a while since she found someone so willing to play her games. No. It had been a while since she found someone to be such a pleasant opponent. “I am a b***h. The word has never held any offense to me.” Though he was wrong, she could not change into a wolf, it was half the reason the pack turned its back on her. “If you say so Marcus, I know very little Poetry. Though I have to admit, it feels like SOMETHING brought us together.” Today was her lucky day it seemed, if he could provide all she thought him capable of.
“Thank you. I shall make note to thank my father for my genes.” Or she would, if she had not killed him all those years ago.
It looks like it was his turn to make an offer. “I live for battle Marcus. I love to fight. I love to kill. I am a weapon and my purpose in life is to get stronger. I want the world to tremble before me. To have spirited young fighters seek me out to prove themselves. To have stories of my victories past down till the end of time. I want Power.” She stated, leaning over to turn off the tap. The bath almost overflowing.
“And I want answers. I know very little of your kind, I want to know more. I want to pick your brain. Learn from you.” She stood up from the tub, resting a hand on her hip. “If you can provide me with both these things, then I will consider giving you everything I have to offer. I will let you bleed me to an inch of my life; let you into my bed to ravish me however you desire, like a good little pet. Though if you wish to share it again at a later time, it will cost you extra.” She winked. He was buying the milk, not the cow.
Akemi raised her finger to her mouth, biting down onto her skin with her fangs until it tore. She held it out to the man, a droplet of blood staining her lips and forming around the open cut. “Your sample.”
Caste. He had not heard that term used in a while. A low hum of approval, Marcus took another deep breath of the warm air, brushing a strand of hair from his face, only for it to fall back where it had been. “I hope you intend to grant me the pleasure of your release from the title. I disagree with it being a factor to one’s ruin. It only is if you let it be. Innocence is meant to be lost. Why punish what is only natural? Why punish ourselves for what we desire? So… backwards. Did you not wish for freedom?” He was trying to make it sound allering, but really, he guessed at this point he just sounded hungry.
Reaching out to brush hair from her neck, the spiritus traced the veins in her neck down, going to wrist, her hands. “I am a fan of many poems. Perhaps you might let me recite some to you. Poetry, wine, a soft bed- such things are one of the most enjoyable experiences I’ve found. One that is best shared with company.” He didn’t bother hide the implication in his tone. “You say you will not give up what you have, that only makes me want it all the more. But even I have my limits Akemi. I cannot do some things I admit. Like bring back the dead. Or give you my heart.” He laughed. They had gone over that hadn’t they? It was such a strange thing to think of twice in one night.
Looming over her, Marcus stared down and drank in as much of her as he could with his gaze. He wanted, and he wouldn’t be denied. Part, but not all. He would have something before the night had ended. In that respect, he would not yield. “You want blood, but from another way.” He pulled back, coving his mouth as he fought back a barking laughter. “Oh Akemi, I can give you that. Night after night, a steady stream of fighters at your disposal. But they will not be human. They will be majin, maybe a witch or two, but I do not make a habit of keeping humans to fight for me. No- my men are the forsaken ones. They are majin.” He held back the fact many were his children, direct or descended from him.
“I have people I need to set examples of, invaders to fight off, criminals to put to justice. I can give you power, teach you what lurks in the dark, what sleeps in the shadows where so few walk without fear. I can teach you how to suck a soul from a man’s eyes, how to swallow light, the way to use the very blood in your body as a weapon.” He reached out to her offered hand, his own hovering slightly before drawing back, a few drops of blood floating in the air.
“This is but one of my powers. I am a creature of the night, of darkness. A root of many shadows that branch out, blocking the light in this world. One day, I will have blot it out, and I do hole when I do… you might not think too poorly of me for it.” One drop to his lips, a visible shudder ran through him as he moaned in pleasure. She was a rare treat indeed. A sweet thing worth savoring.
Another drop and the rest quickly followed, a smile of the cat with cream on his lips. “My knowledge is at your disposal; do not consider it, give, and you will have, consider, I will leave nothing but bread crumbs. Give me what you have to offer Akemi, and I will give you what I can offer.” He reached down, cupping her chin as he pressed his lips to her own. Tongue darting into her mouth, tasting the lingering blood, tasting her. Wild and sweet- he wanted her.
“The dead are dead because they were too weak to live. As for your heart, I do not want it. I do not seek to be loved, I never have. I might ask you for impossible things from time to time, but I will never ask for that. It is probably black and shrivelled anyway.” She rested a hand on her chest. She could feel her heartbeat but knew it should be still, it had been broken, abused, torn out and spat on before today - It might be just as cracked and rotten as his for all she knew. No, Akemi did not want love, she would never accept a normal life, and she would never settle down and find happiness with someone else. She would rather live for the moment, drain happiness and pleasure were she found it... and become strong. The strongest that ever lived.
Her eyes glistened with excitement. He was promising her death, a steady flow of death. He wanted to see her monstrous side? She would show it to him. “I will destroy everything you send my way. Tell them defeating me will allow them to live freely, make them fight me with everything they have; with hatred and desperation. Make them want to break my bones, spill my blood and I will put one after the other in the ground. Turn me into a demon, I live for killing, Marcus. You can destroy the sun for all I care; I will just feast in the dark.” There was a wicked smile on her face, one that could only belong to a mad woman. She was excited, he could promise her power, he could provide it. In truth, she did not care what he thought of her or her goals, it was not his opinions she desired.
.
The noise that he made caused her to blush, though in her mind she blamed it on the heat from the bath. Akemi was never one to fear much, the thought of death made her laugh and the promise of pain tended to excite her. However, this was different; this was not a battle but an act of.... She did not even know. Maybe she had avoided it all these years because the thought of a man dominating her body scared her slightly, maybe because the whole act made her feel rather awkward and nervous. She inhaled, she had braved the lion’s den before, this was nothing, she could do this.... She could do this for power and despite it all, she was actually quite curious, maybe even excited in an odd way. She had always wondered what it would feel like.
“I am a woman of my word.” She assured him, fair is fair and a bargain had been struck. “But Marcus, if you do not provide what you have promised. I will rip you apart any way I can... until you are deader than you are now. I can promise you that also.” She felt his hand on her chin and the next she knew his lips were on her own and his tongue was in her mouth. He was passionate; she would give him that, her joints stiffened as she closed her eyes, resting her hands on his chest. After a moment she broke away from his lips, her face burning. So, this was it.
.
She looked over his shoulder just in time to catch the girl from before, dinner was served and she was staring into the bathroom shocked. When their eyes locked she moved out as quickly and silently as she could, closing the door behind her. Akemi smirked and looked up at Marcus. “Everything I am is yours. Take it from me and seal our agreement.”
The warm air was helping warm his skin, his lungs- it was warming him inside and out, and the sweet taste of coppery blood in his mouth had his hunger risen. If one lust was met the others fell, and now he had all rising, none yet filled. “You make a man want to do things Akemi, terrible, dark things.” He whispered, looking up at the ceiling. “Good thing I am such a terrible dark man as to do them already. I will turn you into what you desire, a demon, a true beast. I will guide your hand and feed you a steady stream of flesh and blood. You will have your name plastered across the lands, and in time, your name will be the one the whisper of, even in the dark. Each fight will be it’s own reward, and I will grant it again and again until you fall. When you fall then I will catch you…” A flash of possession, of a desire for a power of his own glowed in Marcus’s eyes. “I might keep you if you break. If just for a time.”
If just for a time; time, a thing that the spiritus never really counted for nor cared about. He watched each movement of her body, each pulse of blood pumping under her skin as Akemi reacted to his words, his offers and promises. She was living, he was not. Not conventionally at the very least. Yet her life was interesting, made of rare events and circumstances. It would be worth some of his investments to have her around. If anything having her around would keep the villagers off of what he might be doing, their focus shifting to one with a more volatile nature.
“It’s… cute.” He murmured, looking at her face. “How you react to my claims. To me. I never tire of such things. I never have. They make me want such… things. To draw them out more, to be the cause of distress and desire. Tell me your fears, tell me your fantasies. I will deliver; I am not so cruel to not have what will be to give only me pleasure.” His hand brushed a stray lock of hair from her face, a mask of affection put in place. “As you are a woman of your word, so am I. All you have asked for you will receive and more. When the first ray of sunlight fills your room is when it will begin. You will have your blood and battle. I will have-“ a small tug of her robe further down her shoulder, “-well I will have my own rewards.”
He didn’t mind the woman delivering the meal. She would be his sooner or later. For now he had his hands full with Akemi and he was liking it that way. A small genuine smile as the woman fled, Akemi being the one to give an order without saying a single word. “You already have an effect on my staff.” He cupped her chin again. “Already an effect on me.” His movement was fast and demanding, the pull of her into his body, no mind paid to her robe. Lips pressed to her own once more, one hand on the small of her back, the other holding a wrist, thumb running over her pulse. He pulled back, whispering into her ear, pressing his body to her own. “Always remember, I have only taken what was offered.” Small feather light kisses down her jaw, reaching her neck where tongue swirled over her pulse, fangs running along skin, teasing.
Slowly he sank his fangs into her, thumb rubbing on that pulse, body grinding into her own as Marcus moaned, the sweet taste of blood filling his mouth. Sex was it’s own bargain, but blood was just as valued by the vampire. Tiny sips, little gulps of copper tinged red and his fangs pulled free, tongue lapping at the drops of blood that welled to the surface. His moan was deep as he held her to him, ending as he kissed the wound. “How sweet you are, hot and burning down my throat. I do not know if I can behave myself any longer if I were to warm my body in the water with you.” Gentle, if he were even capable of such a thing, Marcus relaxed his hold on her, a contented look on his face.
“Is that what you want Marcus, to be able to tame a beast?” She asked him, tilting her head to one side curiously, and her red hair fell to stroke her shoulder. “Does the thought of having one in your bed excite you?” The red eye shining through her mask cast a slightly brighter glow, highlighting the features on her face. “I do not easily break Marcus.” She whispered, her hands resting on his shoulders, thumbs running along his collar bones gently. “But if I do, it is good to know you will put me back together, even if it is for your own interests in the end.”
“I have never been called cute before, you must have a twisted concept of the word.” The wolf girl smirked slightly at the statement. “Good, this means there might be room for many more bargains to be stuck. But forever is a long time, one day you will get bored of me, so enjoy me whilst you can. We have a lot of time to discuss our fears and desires; we will even drink wine and read some of that poetry of yours, if you wish it.” Her head leaned into his hand as he brushed her hair out of her face, the action almost feline. “You will be pleasured Marcus, in every way I can provide.” Her eyes drifted to the side to see her robe fall down further, the material falling until it was caught in the crease of her elbows.
He had such a dominate presence. In a flash his hand was on her back, his mouth upon hers once more. His movements caught her off-balance. Her chest pressed against his, her wrist firmly in his grasp. “I told you, only fools regret their choices.” Her voice was quiet, her mind at piece with the pact she had made. She turned her head away from him, biting he lip softly s he kissed down her jaw, another blush came to her face, yet this one she did not blame on the heat. She could feel her pulse raising, the sound of her heartbeat... This effect he seemed to have on her. She let out a small gasp as he licked her skin, her body clenching in preparation for what she knew was coming.
She remembered when Fol had bit her, his canine fangs tearing into her skin in such a rough manner. Marcus’ bite was very different, his fangs cut through her skin easily. Akemi moaned, pushing herself closer into him, her free hand made its way to his hair, clutching it firmly. It stung for a moment, but after that she could feel her body relaxing, her grip on him becoming gentler. He kissed the wound he had made, still she felt the blood pool and drip down her front, in-between the fold of her bust. “You do not have to behave.” The wolf-girl shook her head, her hand making its way from his hair to the side of his face. “Marcus.” She uttered softly. She had made her deal with the devil; she leaned forward, planting a gentle kiss on his lips. She never went into anything half hearted, and knew it would not be fair if she laid back and let him do all the work. Despite her inexperience she was ready to play and commit to the act she had promised.
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