Archive of Our Own

Part 1: Conflict

It was indeed the scent of a human being that froze him in his tracks, sending a chill through his otherwise benumbed body which no longer suffered the ailments of lesser beings. How long had it been since he last grew so disconcertedly aware of the physical self? Like a piece of sculpted marble gifted life by the gentle touch of a benevolent creator his heart came to life as blood came rushing through it, pulsating against his temples and heightening his senses until the distant scratches of mice inside the walls reached his ears. Their frightened, thumping little hearts only served to twist the sudden, sharp stab of hunger now urgently demanding to be sated.

Lovino cast an irresolute glance at the wall, apprehensive. Had he not vowed to steer clear of the living? No good would come of this encounter. And that sacred vow, witnessed by stern, unforgiving saints made of stone in a chapel on a night many years past…Yet this scent could only mean one thing; His sacred refuge, a deteriorating, unfinished project of ambition initiated by a wealthy man and then promptly abandoned when castles fell out of fashion, had been infiltrated by a foolish adventurer hoping to glimpse the rumored vampire the townspeople spoke of in hushed voices, and only in broad daylight. What a thrill it must be to brave the once magnificent road now overgrown with thorny bushes and high grass, and without a hint of unease crawl in through one of the cellar windows. In the bowels of the dreaded lair! How the villagers would shudder when they imagined the crunching of bones, and then gasp as the lantern revealed not one human skull, but a dozen or even more! 

Except this would not be the case, and the egregious tale a mere vision of what could be. Lovino had heard enough of their superstitions and was not inclined to feed their frenzy. This place provided him with all he stood in need of. Braving better judgment he turned back, moving down the hallways without a sound in pursuit of the intruder. This threat had to be dealt with. Lovino could stay true to his promise and overcome the temptation. Not once had he allowed instinct to overwhelm rationality. Few were those of his kind who resisted the urge, but they remained steadfast in their convictions and turned to the lesser, non-sentient beings of the wild for sustenance. It could be done. He had kept true, he remained untainted. 

He paused, sensitive ears picking up on the startlingly loud stomps of the intruder, realizing they were about to cross paths. Every breath he took, and Lovino could indeed discern he was a man from his scent up close, would scarcely have made a sound in the ears of his kindred. The stranger held his breath and took great effort not to alert Lovino by making any sudden noise. This was, of course, a laughable waste of time and effort. Aiming to catch a glimpse of his opponent he disappeared down a narrow doorway designed for servants to move unseen through the castle, following hidden paths and emerging at the beginning of a grand entry hallway, still contemplating what to do, unable to reach a satisfying answer before their inevitable confrontation. 

Not too far up ahead the stranger dropped something and cursed under his breath as it clattered across the marble tiles. A deaf man would have been woken by it, and Lovino could not resist a thin smile. Was he no longer enjoying his little adventure? Perhaps a hint of dread had begun to creep up his spine? A sour undertone of sweat could be felt mixed in with the other chemicals creating his unique smell, one neither pleasant nor repugnant but rather just distinct and difficult, if not impossible, to replicate. Now able to locate the intruder with flawless precision Lovino rounded the corner and, approaching the grand doorway, peeked into the great hall. 

And there he was! 

Moonlight sifted through tall windows and stained glass painted the room in pale, dull shades of red, orange and yellow. This led Lovino to mistake the stranger to be blond, until he knelt to pick his crossbow up from the floor. His short, messy hair lost all its pigmentation when shadows enveloped his lean frame and shrouded them in mystery, even to his sharp eyes. White? That raised more questions than it answered. As the stranger rose Lovino observed his youthful appearance, how moved with ease and showed not a hint of that weariness time etched into men as they aged. He wore a long coat and a belt with various religious artefacts and small bottles, and the boots ending just below his knees creaked of leather. One of the pouches attached to the belt reeked of silver. Lovino felt his nose wrinkle in disgust. At once the purpose of his visit became abundantly clear. A vampire hunter, and a lousy one at that! Provoked by this revelation he decided to reveal himself. With a twitch of surprise the stranger turned as Lovino put more force into his steps and a faint, clacking echo emerged from the heels of his shoes. He only did it once, pausing when satisfied that his presence had been noticed. 

“Who’s there?” The stranger’s eyes seemed to possess a curious color as they swept right over him and across the room. “Show yourself!”

Lovino stepped out from the darkness. “I would ask you the same thing, intruder.” 

His hands fumbled with the lock. How pitiful. In a fraction of the time it took for him to secure an arrow and ready the crossbow to fire Lovino could have dashed across the room, seized him and brought his fragile life to a swift end. “So the rumors bear weight. There is indeed a vampire dwelling within these ruins.” Aiming right between Lovino’s eyes he struggled to hold still. One had to admire the steeled determination in those eyes, fighting to remain courageous even as he stared into the jaws of death. “The time has come for you to answer for your wicked crimes. No longer shall you prey upon the innocent and spread fear among good people!”

It astonished Lovino to discover this, but he felt pity for the man. What a shame to throw away one’s life so blindly. “You are mistaken. I have never hurt other people, not even to keep myself alive.” His voice grew bitter. “I wish you hadn’t forced my hand by coming here. Must I break my oath in order to deal with you?”

“Hah! Obvious lies! Like the Devil you speak with a forked tongue!” 

A thrumming noise reverberated through the air as the arrow tore through the air. And so it began. Lovino moved faster than he’d ever done before, merging with the shadows to confuse his opponent. Astonishingly the fool charged straight ahead, readying another projectile and holding the crossbow more like a battering ram than a weapon. Caught off guard Lovino was not quick enough to act, and a shoulder bumped into his own as they narrowly avoided a collision. A gust of air lifted the hair framing his face and the next arrow clattered against the stone walls down to the floor below. With a shout the hunter whirled around, intent on challenging him. Lovino was given no choice in the matter. Easily parrying a strike with his elbow he prepared to do the unforgivable, the one thing that still seemed too vile to even consider…And his hesitance opened up for his enemy to attack yet again, more fervently this time, swinging the crossbow like a mace and desperately tugging at a knife caught in its sheath. Lovino was hit with the cold, metallic and blood-like scent of silver and panicked. He pushed the man, and he stumbled in the dark before losing balance and falling backwards, hitting the ground with a loud thud. 

For a moment Lovino stood motionless, all senses intently focused on the vague outline. When he sensed no movement he cautiously approached, quiet as a whisper, fearing a trap had been laid. A small, faint groan left the man’s lips as he sluggishly and weakly attempted to move, only to end up in the very same position. Lovino kicked the crossbow out of reach then quickly snatched the knife from his feeble hands and threw it across the hall before kneeling down to assess the situation. The stranger could not have been older than he was at the moment of his turning, his features defined as befitting of a man in his twenties. Fascinated, Lovino observed that his unruly hair was indeed a pure white, and that his eyelashes matched. Was it due to some kind of mutation? And the pair of eyes dazenly and unseeingly squinting up to the ceiling struggling to stay open were a pure a red as a royal cape or tapestries hung in a throne room. 

Curious. How curious indeed. Whoever he may be this man was a unique specimen mankind rarely showcased, cursed with an appearance more befitting of a vampire than one who seeks to destroy them. Instead of killing him, why not grant him a new life? But as soon as that idea crossed his mind Lovino dismissed it. How he would loathe me for it. How I would loathe myself! This must be resolved another way. But if I let him go, will he bring others here? And if I don’t, then what will become of him? 

Before Lovino could ponder these troubling issues he…froze. An aroma sweeter than golden threads of silk filled his nostrils, overwhelmingly alluring as it clouded his mind and threatened to unravel restraint. It was no longer a pang of hunger, but a wicked and curved blade cutting through flesh and bone to inflict the most wicked and urgent sense of starvation upon him. Such glorious relief…His breath hitched. It became an excruciating struggle to focus on anything but this rich, sharp scent invading every inch of his being, filling the air and dissolving the borders of reality. And that sound…! Deep within the stranger’s chest the muscles of a strong, youthful heart contracted with a low, humming thud, repeated twice in quick succession before it relaxed, fresh blood swiftly coursing out to the body, veins and capillaries thumping, pulsating and-

His hand. Fresh blood formed deep red pearls shimmering with abundance, clinging desperately to the inside of his fingers despite brimming over as the steady flow continued to feed them, every heartbeat spilling out through the thin gash. Lovino was spellbound. He could not bring himself to look away, and when one of those magnificent and breathtaking beads swam over the ridge of his fingers in a slow, small stream he yearned to lap its sweet richness up with his tongue and indulge without a trace of guilt, enveloped in sweet passion tasting life itself, nourishing his neglected, depraved needs…

Lovino blinked and found his own fingertips brushing against the warm skin of the stranger’s wrist, carefully edging forward. Panicked he tore it away and crawled backwards, chest heaving as he began to breathe again. Too close. Far too close! I almost…Beads of sweat formed on his forehead and underneath his clothes, damp, vivid and unpleasant. As Lovino wiped them away his mind raced along with his previously rigid and muted heart. He could not recall when he last experienced such distress. It annoyed him. Releasing a quick, tense sigh Lovino closed his eyes and retreated inward until his own pulse faded into oblivion. Settle your nerves. He is nothing to you, not even a fleeting temptation. Reason overcomes nature. Intellect outlasts instinct. 

Soon his breathing ceased to make a sound, though oddly enough he felt tempted to mimic the steady rise and fall of the stranger’s chest. It certainly would make his body seem more lively. Lovino had all but forgotten what that was like, and he began to ache without understanding why. A lingering trace of his initial bewitchment, maybe. 

Could one human being nurture such powerful desires? 

Fool. This was a waste of time. Although the stranger’s appearance raised some critical questions, especially in regards to what would transpire next and whether they could reach an understanding, Lovino ought not to remain in such a vast, open space with plenty of escape routes leading out into the unfinished maze and down into dark, sprawling crypts. His gaze fixed upon the man attempting and subsequently failing to sit upright. That prayer reverberated through his being, silky white robes of purity tainted crimson, seeping deep into and tainting what had once been done with such ease. There is only one room which might be repurposed as a holding cell. One door, one window and not a shred of hope to escape. Lovino ceased to take in even the smallest of breaths and approached the man, carefully gathering him up in his arms. There was another groan, and perhaps a mumbled plea, but his foe lacked the strength to protest any further. His injured hand hung limp as if those pale, stained fingers wished to linger on the floor, making a final, motionless attempt to reach it. Lovino was plagued by the proximity, how enticingly clear and defined his animated heart raced as he, the sworn enemy, effortlessly lifted him like a monster clutching his bride unconscious with fear. 

Was he silently praying for mercy? What kind of thoughts might plague his innermost depths, capturing and freezing all hope? Without taking a single breath and through grueling effort Lovino brought him to the top of the tower and to the lord’s chambers.

Part 2: Negotiations

As soon as the stranger’s head sank into a pillow on the bed Lovino turned and gasped for air, head foggy with bitter, dark want even when he resisted breathing through his nose. It was too much to bear. In a daze he staggered back to the door and bolted it shut before leaning back against it, staring up at the ceiling waiting for the foul urges to subside. His jaw clenched. This dreadful greed ruined my brother. I must remember this. His fate is a cautionary tale I’d be wise to follow. Even so the pressing issue remained in the form of a stupefied man slowly regaining his wits, eyes nervously peering around the lavish room as clarity returned to him. Lovino inwardly cursed himself for not confiscating his belt. Was it truly so unbearable to be near this man that he skimmed over such important details? There could be a second, smaller dagger hidden inside the package of silver bullets. His otherwise chilled blood boiled hot. 

Groaning, the vampire hunter weakly and ungracefully attempted to raise himself up into a half-sitting position. He must have hit his head harder than Lovino originally assumed. A slow, uncoordinated hand found its way to the back of his head, absentmindedly rubbing it as if to assess the damage. He winced, but did not appear to be alarmed. Then their gazes met and red eyes widened, staring frozen at the threat he had all but forgotten, forced to wait in merciless uncertainty. 

“Your wound.” Lovino forced out, voice tense between the sickening flashes of hunger. “See to it. Now.”

“Why have you brought me here? And why should I have to listen to-”

“If you don't stop the bleeding I might do something I’ll regret! Please...”

The man seemed just as taken aback by the desperation in his voice as Lovino. They continued to regard one another for a moment that seemed to go on for far too long before he bashfully and rather rigidly turned, digging through a pouch and quietly retrieving a cotton bandage whilst casting Lovino tense and suspicious glances. He hardly paid it any mind, closing his eyes and soaking in relief when the wound was wrapped and out of sight. His body untensed, no longer primed to fulfill its ungodly purpose. The scent lingered still, but he felt more in control of himself than moments before and relished in this small, yet significant victory over the instincts.

“...It’s done.” The uncertain voice brought him back to the present, to a rather subdued sight. “What are you going to do to me?” 

Lovino studied his expression and was yet again fascinated by the depth of those red eyes. "I haven't decided." He is indeed courageous. A fool would not have the wits about him to remain guarded. 

“Well, I will not stand to be kept locked up as your prisoner!” He bristled in an attempt to sound brave. The two of them were painfully aware of his vulnerability, however, and it fell rather flat.

“Then what else can I do? You might run to the village and bring back an angry mob to cast me out of my home. Even if you swore not to oust me, how could I trust the word of a vampire hunter?” 

“I was not asking your permission.”

Lovino bitterly laughed. “Well then, let us see who is the superior fighter. I am unarmed, spare my fangs. Are you so eager to let your life spill out in the sand? And for what? For the approval of some feebleminded peasants?”

“It is my sworn duty to protect them from creatures like you, who take the innocent away in the night to…feed on them, like livestock.” His voice teemed with righteousness, and in his passionate outburst he found enough energy to sit upright and gesture angrily. "Monsters are what you are, and it is my duty to bring an end to your reign of terror!"

Disappointment writhed like a fierce snake within him. Yet again Lovino stood accused of a crime he had not committed. His white cloak seemed to be sullied no matter how well he tended to it. Disheartened, he did not immediately answer, instead moving away from the door to look out the window at the peaceful forests, hills and fields out in the distance. The soft carpet made his steps completely silent even to his own ears. All kinds of creatures would be traversing the heavy undergrowth in search of only the most basic of needs; sustenance, shelter, warmth…How unfair it felt to ponder their simplistic lives, to consider the ways in which mankind retained only the most aggravating traits of beasthood. Animals did not pass any judgment upon death, they did not hold the capability of vengeance or guilt. 

“How many lives have sated your thirst?” The man insisted behind his back. “How many families were torn apart as a result of your ill deeds? You can deny it all you want, but deep down you know I am fighting for what is right."

“You are mistaken.” Lovino quietly began. It was a waste of time, but he realized he had need for conversation. It had been years, perhaps a decade, since he last spoke at such length. “I am not my brother, nor am I anything like the rest of my kin. I have never felled a human being.”

"You’re a vampire, a predator, and yet you claim to have never taken a life?” He huffed. “Please, I am not gullible. You must eat something.”

Lovino turned to face him, regarding him with frustration melting away to freshly stirred determination. "Tell me; what kind of bones did you find in the dungeons? I assume you found your entry through the cellars." A waste of time, yet he was curious to see how he reacted to this revelation. To finally be understood, seen…How gratifying wouldn’t that be?

"Animal bones from prey and predators alike: deer, wolves, rats, foxes..." He trailed off. "What of it?"

“You did not see any human skulls?”

“I…I may have overlooked them…” 

“Is that so?” Lovino took a step closer as the man’s pale forehead furrowed with doubt and confusion, his gaze lowering as if to conceal this internal struggle. "What you saw in the cellars was evidence enough to prove my innocence. Your ambitious quest to slay me was one made in haste and in vain. I am not the killer you seek." He cocked his head, a small smile forming on his lips. “Lest we account for the suffering of woodland creatures. Do you mourn them as well, vampire hunter?”

The strange man sank back down onto the bed, mulling over the new information as he contemplated what to say in return. Moonlight filtered in from the window, making his features look sharper. Lovino was reminded of the paintings depicting brooding generals or philosophers. “I…don’t understand.” He finally said, his voice tinged with unease. “If this is true, then why did the townsfolk- You must be deceiving me, yes, that is what you are doing…” This conclusion did not seem to bring him any confidence, however.

“Why wouldn't they? To them we are all the same. I am plagued by the crimes of my kin, sentenced alongside them though our lives are different. They would not listen to the words of a monster.”

A silence fraught with tension settled between them. If only they had been able to stay true to their given roles. But in that scenario only one would have remained, the other dealt with and discarded. What about this man made him hesitate? Lovino had not anticipated his feelings to be so convoluted. They were different species, even if he could recall the less vivid experience of being mortal, and utterly incompatible. Lovino feigned disinterest and stared out of the window once more, but his fingers anxiously tapped against the ledge. I cannot keep him here. A decision must be made, and soon. 

“Your life sounds…punishing.”

"It is." He admitted. It was not an easy thing to do.

“But, why do this? Why not revel in strength and be as cruel as desire dictates? I never stood a chance of stopping you, did I?” He nervously laughed. “All you needed to do was give me a light shove, and our skirmish was at a quick end…”

Lovino ignored the question and approached the bed, kneeling down to stare at him over the edge of the mattress.  He shouldn’t have. That ever present, distracting heartbeat quickened as the peculiar man looked into his eyes, horrified yet unable to look away. "Who are you, unsuccessful vampire hunter? What is your name? How did a man with such a capability for empathy end up hunting my kind?"

At first he recoiled, but their eye contact froze him in place. He swallowed, and Lovino saw thoughts racing as little specks of light, movements so small they hardly registered. “We’re doing friendly introductions now?” His lips tightened as if fearing they might reveal too much. “Why don’t you go first?”

“Have you confused me with the fae? Those devious little elves that bind their victims to eternal servitude?” He found it amusing. “Even a child could tell you that they’re not real.”

“I know that, obviously. I only meant…Since you are the master of this keep, the host if you will…”

What an eccentric man. He nearly made me smile again. Lovino decided against it, as he might flash his fangs and frighten him into a coma. “Lovino Vargas. My family is rather…notorious, in your circles.” He felt a twinge of unease. Would Feli’s cruel exploits create additional tension between them? 

“To put it mildly.” His eyes tensed for a moment. “Though it is your twin brother I fear the most.”

“Your turn, stranger. Do the polite thing and introduce yourself, as you humans like to do.”

“Gilbert.” He averted his gaze, anxiously fiddling his hands and scratching at the bandage. “Gilbert Beilschmidt…”

"Don’t be so bashful now. It would seem we both herald from widely recognized families. I’ve heard all about your brother.” Before he could stop himself Lovino reached out, carefully allowing his fingers to brush against his white hair. Each and every movement was slow and cautious, prepared for any reaction. "But that is not the only thing that is unique about you…Never before have I seen a mortal with such eyes, and not even vampires have hair white as moonlight. When I first observed you I suspected you of being a half-breed, or something dangerous and nameless I have yet to encounter...You are human, are you not?"

"It-It is a genetic mutation...Not a very common one..." Gilbert stuttered, his voice quieter than usual as he tried his best not to flinch away from the touch. Lovino sensed blood rushing to his face. 

“It would be a pity to harm someone so fascinating.” And he truly meant it. 

“I fascinate you? Why?”

"You were willing to listen. No one else did, until now." His eyes travelled down to the bloody bandage. Too close. I can feel it. Lovino wanted to pull away, but a red haze settled over his mind and began to smother that urge. "You cut your hand on that dangerous blade of yours. It must have been quite sharp..." His hand encroached on the source of his aching, sensing the pulse that still pumped out fresh blood.

A small shiver went through Gilbert as their skin brushed together. “Even now, despite all those sweet words, you crave it?” 

Something about the tone in his voice unexpectedly stung Lovino. He withdrew his hand rather harshly. “I cannot help it. I may abstain as much as I please with no one around to tempt me. At this moment, however, I am beset with desire.” 

“And what will you do about this desire, this...temptation you feel?” Although Gilbert made an effort to keep his voice calm it came out rather unsteady, almost shaken. He did not dare look away this time, his expression difficult to read.

“I swore a sacred vow.” Lovino was reprimanding himself as much as he was conveying his principles to Gilbert. “The saints of the chapel will hold me true to my word. If I indulge in my wicked nature I am lost.”

"...And if you were to break it? What would it take for you to satisfy your desires?"

His eyes narrowed. “What are you suggesting?”

“I-I don't know.” He admitted, swallowing nervously as his gaze flickered, looking anywhere but directly at Lovino. “All I’m suggesting is that maybe…maybe there is a way for you to...indulge, without hurting anyone. Without killing.”

Lovino did not answer, instead retreating to the door and sinking down against it. This was as far away as he could get without leaving the room. His unconventional prisoner did not dare disturb him, merely sinking down into the bed with a sigh and staring up at the canopy. Why would Gilbert feel compelled to help him? What was there to gain from this supposed act of kindness? It could be a clever plot, a way to compel Lovino to lower his guard and forget about any hidden blades. Suspicion soured his mood, and he elected to think of something else, anything that wasn’t a reminder of their differences. His heart gained life as he dwelled upon their brief physical contact, terrified yet completely helpless to it. By the sounds of it he was not alone in feeling this way. What a subtle yet intrusive rhythm, repeating in perpetuity…

“So…have you decided my fate?”

Lovino was startled out of his ruminations, and was all the better for it. They had not given him a shred of clarity. If he approached a solution, justifying and providing a good reason for this particular course of action, it all fell apart when recalling that incessant little seed that had been planted at the back of his mind. For whatever reason Lovino struggled to dismiss the thought. Ridiculous! Yet he made the offer, He glanced up at Gilbert, considering him more thoroughly. and I’m clearly willing to hear him out. Why not apply some pressure, see whether he truly means it? “I would prefer it if you stayed,” Oh, how selfish and irrational! All too aware of his erratic behavior Lovino began to feel self conscious. Of all sensations to experience, this was the worst by far. “and by the sounds of it you wouldn’t mind it if I kept you here.”

“And what’s that supposed to imply?” Try as he might to hide it, Gilbert’s face still flushed rather revealingly.

"Do you take me for a fool? You asked me about my limits and whether it was possible to overcome them. The insinuation is glaringly obvious, I regret to inform you. What a strange man you are, offering yourself so readily and so willingly."

“That’s not- I never said anything of the sort!” 

He suddenly grew restless. How endearing. "Maybe you are more of an outcast than you let on." Lovino rose, stalking closer. "Someone enthralled by the thought of adventure, which you hope to find in my presence. And perhaps there is something else to it, something you seem unwilling to speak of."

"You think you know me so well?" 

Lovino knew his heart was practically leaping out of his chest. And wasn’t it curious how diligently Gilbert refused to give any clear answers? Their ridiculous tug of war irked him in a most delightful way. Why not? Neither of them were going anywhere anytime soon. "If you are a hunter as you claim," His gaze turned to Gilbert’s hand, and for a third time his fingers seemed unable to resist stroking it. "you must know all about companions."

"Companions?" His voice was soft, and fragile. When Lovino noticed his shiver he softly smiled, and relished in watching him fight to maintain a long since discarded composure. "You...you think of me as- That I would-"

"Well? Would you be interested?" He leaned in closer, studying Gilbert’s face. It was not unpleasant to look at. He wouldn’t mind keeping it around. "A heroic sacrifice. They might even make you a martyr in the village. For whatever reason the lost are always the most cherished. I could take care of you. Never again should you want for anything. Doesn’t it sound appealing? Neither of us have to suffer, the both of us would benefit in some way…" 

In truth he hardly had any idea what he was doing. Feli was the one with an extensive history of keeping “pets”, as he sometimes mockingly called them. There was no pre-established etiquette to follow, no rules to determine their fate, only hesitant, hopeful prodding. Already Lovino began to regret his proposal, and he thought of rescinding it before Gilbert could answer. The moonlight illuminated the dust dancing through the room, glimmering like stars in a microcosmos. How many hours until dusk? His internal clock gave no hint of alarm. Before dawn he must determine the fate of this man, else it would be too late to release him. Gilbert was taking too long. Being made to wait like this, to endure the agonizing seconds before the dreaded culmination, he could not still his heart. Like always Lovino refused to let it show, but it must have been visible on his face somehow: as tension, irritation, something intense and demanding or possibly frightening. Though he’d already rectrated his hand Gilbert absentmindedly traced the invisible patterns he’d left, brow furrowing as if troubled by something. With Lovino so close he hardly dared to breathe. It was to be expected. Even so he loathed how his very being seemed to pull away. 

“I’ve…heard of this deal before. But what would you stand to gain?” When their eyes at last met his burned with…Lovino could not decide what, though it certainly gave him pause. Gilbert nervously inhaled. “Is it my blood you ask for, or is there more to it?”

“You. And all that you entail.” He breathed. The admission took him by surprise. It’s been so long. I thought myself devoid of such longing and here he is, a being of long lost potential. It must be the red haze. Without intending to, he had breathed in the dwindling, singing metallic scent through his nostrils. 

“Oh.” He had to pause. “That's not a small request.”

In contrast to his earlier hot denial, this voice was subdued, hesitant. Did Lovino dare to assume it contained a subtle tremor of curiosity? “You could of course take up arms against me, one final time.” He detested the idea, yet felt it was only fair. “I would of course rather keep you around." His hand gently caressed his face, urging Gilbert to look at him. “I cannot say why, but something about you intrigues me…If we had one another I suspect we would never be beset by boredom.” It was madness. 

"I would be reduced to your-to your..." He meekly protested.

"Do you object to it?" Lovino's judgment was darkened by a concern he had forgotten to address. "Is it because we are both men? Or perhaps I am not to your liking?"

Gilbert’s breath caught in his throat, and he quickly shook his head. “No, it's not that-”

“Are you a religious man?” Lovino fished up a cross necklace hidden underneath his shirt. “Hunters tend to be devout, pious followers of the Lord. And you already suspect I am leading you astray, are you not?”

"It's just...I've never considered it. I’ve never…not with another man. You ask a great deal of a stranger..." 

It was not like Lovino didn’t comprehend how abrupt and forthcoming he was being. At certain moments, this one in particular, he was a prisoner to a force that disregarded all social boundaries and greedily pressed on without a shred of dignity. He, too, was inexperienced. These decades had been terribly isolating, regardless of whether this isolation was self imposed or not. As for companions? It would demand a self restraint he did not possess to share such intimate moments without giving in to the only true desire. Why did he draw me in with such sweet promises, knowing how I ache for it, only to hesitate when I reciprocate his interest?

Gilbert Beilschmidt. What a perplexing and infuriating man. No, this was not a satisfying answer. 

“If you continue to be undecided, I might make the decision for you. I only have so much patience.” A sweet little smile tugged on his lips. “Do not play games with me. I am not at all fond of waiting.”

Gilbert drew in a shaky breath, sinking into the bedsheets. It was at that moment Lovino noticed the smell of his sweat, or rather noticed a prominent change in its chemistry. The scent was no longer as sharp as it had been when he dropped his crossbow. Something in its very chemistry had changed, introducing a sweeter, muskier undertone. 

Could it be…? He sought eye contact and found a promising answer in the form of gleaming, warm and aching emotions stirred to the surface. There was guilt without a doubt, and the unmistakable tension of wariness, but it was not all. Listening to the flow of blood Lovino glanced down, to Gilbert’s visible embarrassment. It was enough. He did not need to see it for himself. 

“Don’t tell me you, of all people, are shy.” He smirked. “You came to this place to kill me. That was not very timid, was it?”

“That is exactly why I feel the way I do...” He looked appetizing like this, caught with no way out and flustered like a maiden. Perhaps this was what drove authors of horror novels to repeat the same story again and again. “I have failed, and that alone wounds me, but that much I could be forgiven for. Despite being defeated I could still be admired, a hero-that-never-was. What you ask of me, however…”

Lovino chuckled. “You are easy to manipulate when you believe in such ideals. Well, allow me to teach you a lesson. Beyond the narrow scope of ambitions crafted by humans in a narcissistic attempt of appeasing the ego there exists a world you could not begin to imagine. Seeking the approval of the common man is a waste of time. And that is why you came to me; like me you are different, which means you may never succeed in your endeavors. You sought the highest of triumphs in the vain hopes of redeeming your existence to shortsighed, simpleminded creatures. With me you would not need to exert such effort.” 

It struck deep, just as he had anticipated. Lovino simply looked on as Gilbert first denied it, then slowly came to realize the truth, all played out in those intense and mesmerizing eyes. Longing, painful and aching just like his own, filled them. “You’re telling me to give in to depravity?”

“I’m telling you to do as you please.” 

He let out a bitter laugh. “How convenient it seems that my ‘freedom’ aligns with your selfish interests.”

“Judging by your blood flow our interests do seem to align, regardless of my intentions.”

Gilbert met his gaze and held it for a drawn out moment before looking down, softly cursing as he slowly tilted his head back, exposing the soft skin of his neck, trembling as he offered himself to the monster he had strived to put down, torn between fear and a primal need that must have felt rather contradictory to his cause. Lovino looked on in silent admiration. He had not truly expected this outcome, and knew he had pushed too hard. Set free and driven by his true, despicable nature he got on the bed, straddling his hips, eyes fixed on the captivating offer. One hand settled on Gilbert’s chest, pinning him down. And how sweet weren’t his quiet, held back reactions? Breath held, a stifled gasp that never quite slipped out, heart palpitating so invitingly as he rather unconvincingly squirmed…He was lost to the pulsating rhythm. 

“I-I have one condition.” Lovino blinked as if snapped out of a trance. Gilbert somehow managed to find his voice, airy with anticipation. “You can't claim anyone else. While you have me.”

“Is that all?” He presents it as if it would be an issue. Why would I need anyone else?

“That’s all.” His gaze flickered. “That, and your word that you will not go too far...”

Lovino stroked his face. It was almost loving. How strange this all felt. Could one grow so fond of a total stranger in such a limited timespan? And by the looks of it, he was not alone in feeling that way. Now that the initial humiliation began to subside he could follow a growing intrigue in his companion-to-be, one that was only hinted when he first made the offer leading them down this path. Whatever else, Gilbert certainly found him physically appealing. 

“Consider it done.”

And then he leaned down until their bodies almost pressed together, baring his teeth and sinking them into the soft, warm flesh of his neck.

Part 3: Resolution

Thoughts dissolved into euphoric nothingness. Lovino might have groaned against his neck. He could not recall. Past and present fell apart and faded into obscurity and everything was red, rich and warm and so unimaginably sweet…All he heard was the sound of two hearts beating frantically as one in a subdued, rumbling beat. The orchestra of life, its conductor a wet, glimmering ensemble of muscle stiffening and releasing, filling to the brim with singing blood and promptly sending it all back out in a wonderous, soundless explosion. He could envision it so clearly. In that ethereal haze, physical boundaries blurred and gave way to an intimacy unlike any other, two bodies for a moment connected via one bloodstream, one pulse, one heart…Though soon he became keenly aware of the frantic hammering slowly but surely being drained, terrified yet rendered completely naked and exposed. Give in to me. You’re mine. Give me your life. I want it all. Die. Die…! Somewhere in a distant dream he pulled a shivering, feeble body tightly against his own. The saints seemed to be watching with disdain, grey stone splattered red. Somehow, Lovino could not find it within him to care.

It would be so easy. Would it even matter at this point? Hot and delirious he felt the life source of another wash over him, through him, burning and prickling in ways he hadn’t believed possible. Some of it spilled on his tongue as he drank greedily, allowing hedonism to rinse out the stomach dropping sensation of a promise made for all of eternity shattered into dust. Those grim, unblinking stares could not begin to appeal to him the way life did. He felt its essence kicking wildly, that source of joy dwindling even as it shivered uncontrollably and violently. It did not matter. He would devour it until nothing remained, until it grew still and rang out demise, a life smothered in perpetuity…

Then Lovino tore free with a sudden jolt as a panicked, uncoordinated hand pressed against his chest with all its might. Even then, head spinning with glory and panting, he struggled to fully let go, noticing the small, dark stream forming at the fresh bite marks. He almost drunkenly lapped at Gilbert’s neck and smiled against it when he heard him let out a wordless, faint and breathy little cry. This man was completely at his mercy, so weak and defenceless and lost in his own cloud of blissful sensations. Even the sudden, sharp spike of adrenaline that began to fade out into exhaustion was appealing, more so than anticipated. 

“Have I worn you out already?” As his volatile urges settled down Lovino begrudgingly pulled away from his throat, though not very far, watching him with glee. 

Gilbert could only muster a small, shaky nod as a response, too out of breath to form words. He looked completely drained, his body limp and astonishingly pale. However, despite the pain and confusion Lovino noticed how he appeared to be strangely comfortable, blinking slowly and letting out a soft sigh. With his most urgent need met Lovino took the opportunity to appreciate the sight of him, how his unruly hair clung to his damp forehead and the way his skin seemed to shimmer where the light reached him.

"You poor thing." He murmured, laying down next to Gilbert and pulling an arm around his waist. This time he was gentle, guided by a need that did not contain a trace of brutality. Lovino placed a soft kiss on the already bruising marks, relishing in the taste of blood on his lips. Roused from some distant lands Gilbert exhaled softly and leaned against him, finding comfort in their embrace. He was too weakened to truly reciprocate it, but that only made Lovino all the more pleased. 

"I've never felt anything like that before…"

"Did you enjoy it as much as I did?" Lovino softly asked, stroking his fingertips over his dark, sinking eyelids and over the high cheekbones that retained a flushed, pink hue. 

“It felt…Maybe. I think I…” Gilbert’s eyes fluttered open, almost immediately darting towards his bloodstained lips. 

It felt almost shameful to relish in his disheveled and incoherent state. Lovino mirrored him and let his eyes trail those slightly parted lips, and then glance back up at him through his dark eyelashes. “And how do you feel regarding the other part of our agreement? Would you trust yourself to fulfill it for me in this sorry state of mind? That might not be so wise.” Oh, he was shameless. Ever since their hearts joined he’d forgotten the essence behind words like ‘modesty’ or ‘temperance’. Meaningless. How had he shaped his life around such uninteresting, inflated concepts?

“Are you…are you suggesting I couldn’t do it? Nonsense. I’m in good shape…No problem at all, I tell you…” 

“You must have grown quite fond of me, to insist so vehemently.” Gilbert looked like he was going to waste precious energy arguing otherwise, so Lovino quickly continued. “Fine. Then I cannot let you bleed out. Lean forward for me.” 

He reached down and unclasped his belt, retrieving more bandages from the pouch and unfurling one of them. Upon a quick peek it seemed this action had its intended effect on Gilbert, who watched him almost unblinkly, eyes at last open. Care to deny it? He wordlessly challenged him. The wine red bed curtains suddenly seemed fascinating to Gilbert. Lovino smiled at the sight of his flustered scowl, thriving from it as if it were oxygen. 

Despite growing impatient, Lovino carefully leaned forward and wrapped the bandage around his throat, tying a secure knot at the back of the neck. Whilst doing this he kept glancing up at Gilbert, unable to let him out of sight for too long, and desire sparked between the two of them like a small, crackling flame. Was it normal to feel this way, or was it another sensation human beings stood to offer him?  Lovino certainly felt his blood flowing, distinctly alive as it throbbed in his veins. Perhaps all mortals felt this way, and he had merely forgotten what it was like. It did little to explain why this rush of warmth concentrated in his head, thighs and groin, though.

And he was not the only one faced by this strange reality. Inspecting his work Lovino placed his hands on Gilbert’s shoulders, leaning in to make sure the bandage was applied correctly and secured at the back. As he pulled back, however, Gilbert surprised him by taking him in his arms, pulling them both down into the bed with clear intent. He could easily have gotten out of this embrace and resumed control. They both understood how glaringly unbalanced their dynamic by nature had to be. If Gilbert wished to cling to some sense of autonomy, superficial as it may be, then why not? Lovino would simply reaffirm the unspoken truth by letting him. 

For the first time that night their lips brushed together, his own stained by blood. Lovino closed his eyes and wondered whether Gilbert would find the taste as thrilling as he had. Their senses were not even close to comparable, and that thought was somewhat saddening. That didn’t stop his companion from letting out a soft moan against the kiss, however, and he did not seem bothered by any traces of their actual affair. Lovino felt very pleased with him and spoiled him with another, more urgent kiss, and then another where their tongues briefly met. Teasing him like this was half of the fun. They momentarily broke apart, but only to catch breath. It struck him that Gilbert was more winded than he ought to be, so Lovino decided to extend the pause by focusing on his clothes, unbuttoning the coat he wore and toying with the laces to the undershirt. He froze when Gilbert attempted to do the same to him, suddenly growing uneasy. 

“You- you don’t want me to touch you?” His sour disappointment couldn’t be entirely contained. 

For whatever reason he struggled to answer. “I don’t mind it.”

“But something clearly troubles you.”

Lovino considered him, forced to admit it was true. “I promised to take care of you, didn’t I? That is my end of the deal; to make sure you’re not in any way troubled by our arrangement, and that your pain is compensated.”

He blinked. “I don’t follow…”

“I robbed you of your vitality.” He began to unlace the shirt, avoiding looking elsewhere. “That was greedy of me. Therefore you must allow me to compensate you. All I need from you is obedience, indefinite and unyielding regardless of what I ask of you.”

“I-I see.” 

“Can you trust me with your body?” Lovino’s voice was uncertain, oppressed by the prospect of being told the one thing he could not stand to hear. “If I asked it of you, would you save your strength and submit to my care?”

As he spoke Gilbert’s breathing tenuously changed, growing more restrained and shallow. For some time he stared at Lovino, incredulous, thoughts flickering at a rapid pace as he attempted to gather his thoughts. “I would.” He averted his gaze, perhaps hoping it would hide how strikingly red his blush appeared on his much paler face. “However, I do have to ask…Does that mean I cannot touch you at all?”

Ah. So that was what sparked this concern. Lovino yet again smiled, reaching out to affectionately touch his face. “You may, but tonight you must ask my permission. Someone has to tend to your needs and keep you conscious, and you seem hopelessly forgetful in my presence.”

“Not at all.” He pathetically insisted. “I’m feeling better already. The room is no longer spinning.” Gilbert attempted to sit up, and promptly laid back down. “Well, maybe it still is…it could be much worse, though…”

Lovino did not grace this admittedly amusing performance with a response. Instead, adjusting himself until their breaths intermingled, he leaned in for another kiss. And another. Showcasing a bit of a playful side or perhaps sarcastic one, Gilbert placed his hands by his head in a mock surrender. I’ll need to correct that sort of behavior. He moved down, leaving a trail of kisses that eventually paused by his ear. There Lovino softly bit down, not hard enough to break through the skin, but the response was just what he had hoped for; An involuntary shiver went through Gilbert who was caught off guard. And that noise he let out…It was very much intriguing. Did he truly wish for him to lay idle and subservient, then? Lovino could not deny it was thrilling to measure out punishments for this nonchalant and arrogant behavior, which he saw as an implicit challenge to his earlier declaration. He wanted control, and Gilbert was clearly exploring what this meant. 

“Careful now.” He murmured in his ear in a treacherously soft voice, clutching one of Gilbert’s hands and entangling their fingers together. “I know what you’re doing. You wouldn’t want to provoke me.”

“That might be precisely what I hope to achieve.” He flashed an arrogant smile that Lovino did not see, but rather felt.

“I won’t be gentle with you, if that is what you believe.”

That gave him pause. “Gentle? You mean that-” And then it struck him, perhaps for the first time. Lovino watched on, drinking in the sight of it, feeling both malicious and accomplished for the effect it had on him. “But, I mean, I assumed that when two men…You are, um, you are more…”

“Smaller, is that what you’re trying to say? That your shoulders are broader than mine, and your arms and chest toned? So?” Lovino playfully ran his free hand over each area as he mentioned them, noting that Gilbert was still far too dressed for his liking. 

The tips of his ears had turned red. “I see.” That seemed to be his default answer when faced with difficulty. “And you…know how to, I mean, how it works…?”

“I’ll give you a demonstration.”

“A demonstration.” Gilbert repeated in a lighter voice while Lovino kissed his neck just above the bandage. “That’s…I mean, I suppose- If that’s what you desire of me.” 

Evidently he did not have the experience Lovino had quietly, unbeckomst to him, assumed. How strange. He was a rather attractive man, with an appearance that surely must capture the attention of many. It meant that they ventured into this arrangement as equals. Only in that regard, though. Their lips found their way back together once more, and now there was an underlying tension fueling their movements, pressing together body against body, caught up in the hazy warmth taking hold of them. As it progressed to something more intimate than the almost innocent yet exciting first contact, a small strand of saliva connecting them in a brief pause that could have belonged to either, Lovino noticed with satisfaction how Gilbert was indeed yielding; He laid back down, allowing Lovino to take the lead, doing nothing until given a cue. When he placed Gilbert’s hand against his chest, wordlessly instructing him to help Lovino undress, he got to work rather shyly. Perhaps it was a struggle to keep track of two things at once.

Then at last that pesky coat and undershirt had been dealt with and promptly tossed aside. As hesitance gave way to passion Gilbert’s efforts increased, more successful than they had been before. Even then Lovino decided to take matters into his own hands, recalling his weakened state of being and what it might entail to push too far. He shrugged off his undershirt, then paused to enjoy the sight of the other. He hadn’t been far off; While Gilbert was somewhat thinner than one might assume he still had some quite flattering shoulders, and arms that, while fair like the rest of him, conveyed strength hidden just beneath the surface. It was not obvious at first glance, but when he moved Lovino observed that he was in good shape. The same seemed to be true for his chest, rapidly rising and falling from their intimate exchange. His perplexion caused his thoughts to stray yet again. This was a man who would blend in well amongst vampires, if only he didn’t reek of human. Lovino did not mind it much, though, gracefully sinking down on top of him to enjoy the warmth of the living. As soon as they touched without any layers between them Gilbert shivered, and goosebumps appeared on his arms. That was to be expected. They would get accustomed to one another soon enough, though not in an instant. Lovino traced the outlines, dips and curves of his chest with one hand whilst stroking through his hair with another, nestling his face in under that marked jaw. 

“Do you still intend on…what we spoke of earlier…?” Gilbert asked as that tactile hand traced lower, causing the muscles in his stomach to tense ever so slightly.

Lovino did not answer immediately. He enjoyed the sensation of his voice vibrating through his throat, and how tantalizing it still felt to his long since sated thirst. “It only seems appropriate, all things considered.” 

An arm that felt pleasantly warm wrapped around his back, stroking down his spine and then up to the shoulders. “You really wish to make me yours. I must be some significant find to you.” 

“How so? Would I not have done the same thing with someone else?”

“You tell me.” 

Lovino moved his hand up again, placing it over his heart and carefully teased a nipple hardened and eager from all which had preceded this touch. “And to think you seemed so reluctant before. When did my intentions become a source of pride to you? Nothing has changed.”

“Well, I gave it some thought…” His voice seemed breathy, a bit distant. Enjoying my touch? Lovino couldn’t help but feel pleased with himself. “I suppose I arrived at a…different conclusion than I originally-” He paused when Lovino began to undo the laces of his breeches. “Than I originally did…”

“I’m only going to touch you.” He mumbled when he noticed that expectant glimmer in his eyes. “With this much blood flowing in such a concentrated area? Who knows what I might be driven to do.” 

“You do have a sense of humor.”

“I am being very serious. At best it would feel uncomfortable with my teeth, at worst…Well, I have never asked my kin what might go wrong.” And with that said Lovino had his breeches undone, bringing his focus to what came next. If Gilbert had been about to reply he quickly forgot all about it as suddenly he lay completely exposed before him, vulnerable and at Lovino’s mercy. “You’ve been enjoying yourself, I see.” He could not help but observe. 

In response he let out a scoff, but it hardly resonated with what Lovino saw. For a man of such adamantly acclaimed chivalry he was restless beneath him, painfully conscious under the scrutiny of his unlikely lover. Inexplicably, this open display of defencelessness was attractive to Lovino. How obvious hadn’t it been from the very beginning when he first raised that crossbow? A capable fighter, no doubt about it, but in all other regards he was uncertain and awkward. 

This time it was unwarranted, however; He was of a decent size, not too small and not too large, and had been cut. The tip had a shape to it that made it pleasant to gaze at, but before long Lovino was distracted by the veins. A few were visible through the skin, others he could sense with his enhanced hearing. At that moment his remark about the dangers of getting too close rang loudly like bells in his ears, and though the hunger surely should have been quelled it pounded inside his head and guts once more, stirring like some beast that could never be relieved of its needs. Drawing a hand over his face Lovino sighed, at odds with two different versions of himself whose desires seemed to cross borders and blend into one another. It was however less demanding to resist this time, though the urge remained there pulsating like an evil, darkened being sent into hiding, watching and waiting. 

“M-May I…?”

Brought out of the inner turmoil Lovino saw that Gilbert had hoisted himself up to a half sitting position, hands hesitantly lingering by the hem of his own trousers. That sweet expression, made to look up at him as if in adoration, revealed a sense of due regard mixed with nervousness, one that could easily be attributed to more than one thing. Pleading, was the general summary of his actions. 

“You may.” 

This suits him well. Lovino considered the possibilities and what he may instruct him to do next, but ultimately decided against it. His breathing, steady as it were, was not strong enough. Some other time, perhaps. As he watched Gilbert begin to undo the lacing and felt the brief, intimate touch that for now consisted only of his knuckles and fingertips, excitement pooling, it occurred to him that none of this would have happened had Lovino not drunk from him. There simply was not enough blood to go around with the rather unfulfilling alternatives he’d sustained himself on. Gilbert paused to look at him. It was of course flattering, particularly in light of their various differences where Lovino without a doubt found him more appealing. It was, however, not bound to go on forever, and they had more interesting passions to explore. He therefore finished taking his breeches and undergarments off while Gilbert watched on, no doubt savouring the view. As soon as this final obstacle was dealt with they continued to observe one another for a minute. Lovino, despite how bizarre it seemed to have ended up here as total strangers, discovered to his surprise that he felt not a hint of unease in his presence. This was right, a harmony he seldom felt in any context, be it in someone’s arms or elsewhere. 

Soon his interests moved on from the visual and to the physical aspects of his companion. Lovino gently pressed Gilbert back down, following him in the movement until he laid flush against his chest, among other things. Letting go and allowing deeply rooted urges to control what happened next he brought him close for another delightful, indulgent kiss. No dithering this time around; they had grown almost familiar with one another, with the way the other answered and how the tongue tended to move, leaving them both with precious little patience. 

Lovino kept it at a slow, almost maddeningly promising pace, and then, assured that Gilbert had relaxed into the blissful sensation, let his hand wander down past the navel, over the shape of the groin and then further. Feeling Gilbert let out a small moan against lips was a glorious reward, but even better was the sensation of blood thumping against his fingertips. Lovino took his time running them up and down the erection, gently squeezing and stroking as he familiarized himself. To his great gratification Gilbert turned out to be rather sensitive, too. Trying as he may to hold back he soon had to break free from their kiss, breathing heavily and at times letting out some sweet noises. When Lovino pressed them closer together using a hand on the small of his back he took it as a cue, eager to get to know Lovino’s body and give back. It certainly taught Lovino a thing or two about his own preferences; He enjoyed the brief, light touch of his firm hands brushing over his nipples, how they grasped his waist and then, in a move that left him nearly breathless, the oh so pleasant, excited tingling of a hand moving down the back of his thigh, teasingly close to the inner part. 

Even now Lovino was spellbound by his heartbeat and pulse. As they grew more entangled, perspiration taking shape as a thin, glistening coat where the body was the hottest and sticking to the bedsheets, breath stolen away by the disoriented, lengthy kisses and by being so intimately close, he found himself stirred by the racing heart beating away so clearly it transferred over to his palm, discovering the larger arteries in Gilbert’s neck, wrists and even legs. And indeed, just as Lovino feared, his attraction to it was no longer limited to the relief of nourishment; his carnal arousal flourished most intensively when his thoughts lingered there, and when he momentarily picked up on the dampened, resonating thrumming so achingly far out of reach. A beastly part of him longed to tear Gilbert’s chest open and clutch his still beating heart in his hands, maybe even lick it and feel it tremble against the touch. How would that taste? Fortunately he was not a prisoner to these straying, sinister thoughts, with Gilbert’s distracting noises keeping them at bay. But although they were influencing him in different ways they both worked to fuel his desire. It was time. Lovino felt they had fooled along long enough, and he was no longer held back by whatever reservations he may have had in the beginning. He paused and placed a hand on Gilbert’s chest, imploring him to do the same. 

“What is it-” He paused, noticing how Lovino was staring at him. “Ah…You want to…”

“By any chance, did you happen to bring anything of use? That crossbow surely needs some greasing from time to time.”

“Petroleum jelly.” He sank into bed, wiping his forehead. “I suppose that might work…”

It must, else you are in for something rather painful. Lovino had not planned for any of this to take place, and would rather not wander too far and risk wasting the precious moments he was granted full use of his body. He could only guess how long Gilbert’s blood would continue to burn in his veins. It did not take long to find it and for Lovino to drop the belt back down on the floor…or almost do so. An interesting thought had suddenly occurred to him, one he found himself much unwilling to just let go of. Like with most belts the various additional elements were easily removable, added after the fact. He quickly got to work. 

“Can’t this wait?” Gilbert whined. 

“Patience. You’ll get what you both want and dread soon enough.” He soon procured a clean belt, perfect for what he had in mind, and crawled back to his companion. “This is it.” He mumbled against his neck, kissing it. “After this you will be mine.”

He shivered. It could easily have been a tremble of excitement, though. “I’ve heard that vampires can sway the minds of mortal men before, but this…What kind of creature are you?”

“There is nothing special about me. You just find me desirable.” Lovino nudged him to move, and enjoyed how quickly he obeyed despite his fearfully racing heart. With his broad back now facing him, Lovino took hold of his wrists and pulled them together behind it. “Hold still. This will not hurt…not yet, at least. And why are you peeking over your shoulder? I promised not to hurt you.”

“You only promised not to kill me…” 

Lovino wrapped the belt around his wrists and somehow got it to stick in place. He tugged on it to make sure it would not come undone, and when his creation held he felt satisfied enough to run a hand through Gilbert’s hair and lean in, breath hot against his ear. “So you won’t go anywhere. And because it looks good on you.”

“I cannot be the only one you’ve done this to.” 

“Oh, but you are.” Lovino tilted his chin back so he could get a better look at him, their bodies pressed close together. “You want to feel special, don't you? How does it feel to get exactly what you wanted?”

It seemed impossible for his face to flush any redder, yet it did. “I wouldn’t know, since you haven’t gotten started yet-” 

“Beg for it.”

“Excuse me?”

“I believe you heard me the first time.” Lovino reached a hand out and began to feel him up, taunting and giving only just enough pleasure to make him restless and wanting for more. “You seem like a proud man. I’d love to break you down in that regard.”

“Alright…um, please, if you would…”

“You do not sound very convincing.” Lovino dipped two fingers in the salve, coating them. 

He took a deep, shaky breath. Lovino’s caressing was achieving its purpose. “Please. I want you.”

“Want me in what way?” 

“I-I want-” He was interrupted by Lovino carefully pushing two fingers against his opening, first inserting only one and then the other, inch by inch. “Ah…I want…”

“Speak up. I can barely hear you.” He murmured and kissed his shoulder, purposely moving in so that he would feel his erection press against his behind.

“Y-You’re not exactly- ngh…making it easy…”

“I’m sure you’ll manage.” Lovino somewhat absentmindedly answered. He felt his pulse beat inside of him, and it was a prominent sensation given how tight he felt around his fingers. 

“You’re full of surprises…”

In response he spread them apart by a few inches, stretching his rectum as he moved the fingers back and forth. “That is not what I asked you to do. Focus.”

Lovino realized that Gilbert might be into this, though whether he was aware of this himself remained uncertain. He decided to give him some time. Eventually he would have his answer, and it would probably not take very long by the looks and sounds of it. He marked him with treacherous kisses, holding him close by his waist, all the while moving at a slow and steady pace. He did indeed not last under the pressure, growing agitated and suppressing some moans until he finally, at long last, having wasted precious stamina resisting for the sake of his pride, gave in. 

“Please! I want you to- to…” He stammered all over his words. “I want- need you to fuck me, please, I beg you! Is that good enough? I can’t keep doing this, please…”

Lovino retracted his fingers, glistening still from the coating. Oh, he certainly had pushed him hard. The way he struggled to catch his breath, the glimmering threat of tears in his eyes, how hard his erection was in the pale moonlight…Lovino wiped away some of the wet bangs from his forehead. “I’ll allow it. You did well enough, considering what a pitiful condition you’re in.” 

“Thank you. Thank you…please…” 

As Lovino coated himself with the lubricant he felt rather arrogant, having noticed a certain gleam in his eyes that revealed just how much pleasure he took from being spoken down to. As soon as the words were spoken he’d worried for a moment that it would be too far, and his companion would suddenly withdraw before they were able to fully enjoy one another. A needless concern, it seemed. Gilbert was meeting all his needs without being left wanting. 

Then, finally, their bodies joined together. Pushing into him Lovino groaned, experiencing an almost uncomfortable tightness all around him. But though it seemed overwhelming at first he quickly found it to be pleasant, penetrating him deeper. This time he didn’t just hear him cry out, he felt it. That was almost as glorious as the throbbing pulse hugging his cock. Pleasure and hunger were one and the same, the borders broken down. This would not last very long, he dazenly thought, leaning in over Gilbert’s shoulder to kiss his neck. Oh, he would not last very long, the way he was breathing. To think something so crucial to the human condition could sound so sinful…

Making certain Gilbert looked strong enough to endure this he began to move again, finding a pace that at first was about as slow as his fingers had been. This had to be done with care. Humans were such fragile beings…Feeling his body submit to the warmth of pleasure and shortly relaxing, adjusting to the new sensation of being penetrated, Lovino too lost himself to the rhythm of a heart beating quickly and eagerly, desire palpable. When he thrust into him it felt as if his body sought it out, wanting to feel those warm, soft muscles filled to the brim with blood around him…It was not possible, but he could not stop thinking about it. In this haze he pressed between Gilbert’s shoulder blades, pressing his upper body forward so he could get a better angle. He did not utter a single word of resistance, and not a part of him seemed able to defy him. Lovino was certain he was speechless from being treated this way. To discover how good it felt to give in, to be used in this way, made to submit body and soul…His mind must have been spinning, if he were able to think at all. What could be ascertained, however, was that clenched muscles in his lower stomach, the heat practically surging from his body and the delicate, far too distracting sounds condemned him. God, he felt good. Lovino ought to have guessed this, he understood the effect men had on him, but this? Could it truly be narrowed down to his mortality, the fresh blood streaming through every inch of his body? Companions were a rare thing. Hardly anyone spoke of having them, at least. That had to be a lie, he thought. If sex with a mortal felt this good then surely no one would be able to abstain from it. As he pushed into him more vigorously than before he thought only of keeping him. They could keep doing this, get lost in one another and forget about the world. His senses were pleasantly overcome by it all and he, too, was made to gasp as his body surged with an almost electric feeling. 

He wanted him to hear it. This would be his reward. Lovino brought Gilbert close, so close as they possibly could be, but even then it did not seem enough. 

“I’m going to make you mine.” He panted against his ear, then let out a sigh. 

It was enough to make him cry out and  shudder, body clenching around him as he was sent over the edge. Lovino placed a hand on his chest right over his heart and felt it, not just below his palm but around him. His entire being trembled as he came inside of him and all else ceased to exist. Your heart belongs to me. Yes, mine…I need no one else. You’re perfect, you’re everything I’ve wanted. 

Pure bliss.

Part 4: Peace

They ended up nestling together, limbs intertwined to the point where it was impossible to tell where the other began and where the self ended. At least until Lovino’s body lost some of its warmth. It may have taken hours. He did not care to observe himself, far too enchanted by the man asleep in his arms. He would need to eat so that his strength would be replenished. Rats were not an option, though Lovino briefly contemplated leaving him to hunt some down and find out whether it was possible to turn them into a less distinguishable meal. Had Gilbert brought anything with him? 

Despite these concerns Lovino refused to rise, not until the skies outside began to brighten to a muted grey mixed with watered shades of red, orange and yellow. It began to rain while Gilbert got some well needed rest, and the clouds hung threateningly overhead still. Far down below the window a fresh, clean smell of petrichor, wet leaves and grass mixed together, reaching his sensitive nose. Lovino did not “sleep”, not like Gilbert did, but he nevertheless closed his eyes and allowed his other senses to be at the forefront. What did a person smell like in the rain? He might find out soon, if Gilbert decided to return home that evening. Yes, he could trust him now. That was only fair. Just for a day or two…

Lovino clutched him tighter and Gilbert softly groaned in his sleep, head resting on his shoulder. He may not want me to see him off. What happened between us was spontaneous, a spur of the moment. How discomforting. Lovino could not keep him confined to this room forever, though, and must at some point give him permission to leave. If the townsfolk believed the vampire hunter to be missing they knew where to look for him, armed with silver bullets and with wooden stakes. No one would consider Gilbert a free man making independent decisions: they would say he was under a spell, hypnotized, led astray, held hostage, poisoned by the venom from his fangs. And God forbid they believed him if he told them the truth…

Moving tenderly, Lovino undid the bandage around his neck to some muted, sleep drunken protests, inspecting the bruising mark that stood out like acral necrosis on a plague victim against his pale skin. I’ll lend him a scarf. Even if he pulled his collar up it would not entirely cover this up. He made a mental note to bite further down the next time they crossed paths. If they did. 

Yet despite his tendency to assume the worst in all situations Lovino could dismiss this concern as he watched Gilbert sleep peacefully in his presence. No, when they did. He ran a hand through his short, white hair.

Lovino, already wistful, wished for it to be very soon.