Gazing up at the night sky as the rain started coming down, the streak of blood washing from his cheek as his eyes returned to their normal emerald colour- at the same time, the katana at his side simply faded away. Turning his attention to Vendetta as they cane to a stop, Toshiro's brow raised as he saw the grin spread across her face. 'Already trying to lure me to your place? Surely... another date or two... is in order first!'
"Surely I've earned some points on boldness alone!" Joining her in the laughter that echoed throughout, hearing her laugh did wonders melting away his concern.
"In seriousness- your place... is closer. I live on the mainland... over an hour away. I could make it... but I'd rather recover." That caught his attention- only the elite lived on the mainland. Toshiro wasn't completely surprised to hear this, his mind going over the properties that she might call home. Almost instantly one stood out from the rest- Italy's own Obsidian Castle, Black Phoenix Estate. There had been countless rumours about the place- and its mysterious owner, some even wondering if it might be a place of operations for a secret society.
Vendetta shivered, the pain replaced with cold aching, numbness from the icy October torrent falling upon them. "Apologies... I'm sure this... ruined your night. But I'm grateful you came..." Layered beneath her words, the emotional message was there- until she saved his life, she owed a great debt to him; a debt that would transcend this lifetime, if need be. Gratitude, in words she could not find. Lingering concern, that she couldn't repay all his kindness- in essence, she well and truly belonged to him... Buried emotional pain, something Toshiro could sense... All things to be addressed another time, however.
"It's not as though I was doing something of great importance. Besides, even if our relationship has just begun, I'll always be there for you in your time of need." His words sincere and pure, a smile graced his features. Icy rain and blood loss caused her to fall into a cold, depressive silence- especially with what transpired. It reminded her too much, of a life far away- a life she kept trying to kill, but refused to die... Just like before, time seemed to float by in her presence- before he knew it, they arrived. Eager to step out of the rain, Toshiro produced his keys and let them inside.
His apartment was no doubt smaller than Vendetta was used to, but Toshiro found that it suited his needs just fine. Bookcases flanking the entryway were filled to the brim with books covering a plethora of subjects- from the occult, to biographies of historic significance. Vendetta's eyes glanced over the titles- many of them she owned as well. What caught her eyes, a half-finished easel; a swordsman looking into the distance... It held a disturbing familiarity... Toshiro guided Vendetta to the couch, easing her down- as no doubt their walk had taken its toll on her. "I'm certain you're famished so I'll be right back- feel free to make yourself at home." With a quick bow, Toshiro disappeared into the kitchen. She shivered once more, pain and cold making themselves known.
Pain, cold and uncertainty pulled her mind into the distant past, blending it with the present. Much as she loved what she knew of him... the serious imbalance would be problematic. And she knew going down that particular path again was dangerous, but she made the offer. In a way, it made sense- that was the life Vendetta lived, before coming to this place... She was accustomed to it, being bound to another...
~
Returning a few minutes later, IV bags in one hand while the other carried two wine glasses also filled with blood, Toshiro returned. "I thought you might like something you could actually taste as well." The glasses set down on the table, Toshiro's focus was on the infusion. Taking her arm, he was careful as possible- instinct made her freeze, silent and marionette-like, while he set the infusion up for her. It had been quite a while since he last had to complete such a task... Breathing a sigh of relief, he took a seat next to her on the couch, picking up his glass and taking a sip as he finally relaxed. Toshiro half-expected conversation to start once again, but instead they sat in eerie silence.
Looking over, Vendetta seemed to be lost in thought, concern taking his face. "If you'd like, I could start the water, so you can take a shower to warm and wash yourself off once the infusion is done." He wasn't sure if his words would fall upon deaf ears, but if nothing else, it broke the silence. Taking her glass in hand, Toshiro slowly brought it to her lips. She was still death-cold, and devoid of colour. "I'm sure you must be parched after the night's events."
Much to his relief, Vendetta snapped back into the moment- the strong scent of blood catching her attention. "I- yes, thank you... Forgive me..." Taking the glass in hand, her hands trembled a little as she let the familiar taste wash over her tongue. We get our supplies from the same supplier, she mused. Smooth, decadent, lightly tinted with metallic bite... it was perfect. By now colour started to come back- and her wounds finally healed.
"The idea of warming up... getting clean, would be lovely... Yet I don't wish to intrude, more than I already have. Already I've gotten water and blood all over- not to speak of what happened, I feel terrible. Your kindness has been more than enough..." She looked down into the dark liquid. "The choice is yours, yet if you insist I remain- than I shall. I just... I think I've caused enough trouble for one night."
She must have been in shock- to be expected, given all that occurred. "You're fine, it's been quite a long and exhausting night. I can't blame you for fading out like that. I just hope my supply is to your liking." Giving her a quick look as she drank, then spoke, his mind thought back on the events. Wondering just how far the lycans followed Vendetta before they passed by his shoppe.
At her concerns, he shook his head- droplets getting everywhere. "It's fine- considering the circumstances, you couldn't help it and I don't mind. My concern was with getting you healed up, over all else. As for the blood, consider it a repayment for that night at Ambrosia." Reaching over he took her hand in his, his thumb gently rubbing the back of her still-icy hand. "We are in a courtship together, I'm here to help you in any way I can. I want you to know that you can rely on me."
"I know we are, but-" Leaning in, he placed a soft kiss upon her lips, silencing her protest. Toshiro smiled once more, as he rose from the couch.
"It would honestly put my mind at ease if you stayed. The water should be nice and warm for you by now. The bathroom is down the hall, to the left- and across the hall is my bedroom. When you're finished, feel free to browse through my closet something to wear." Before Vendetta could say anything, Toshiro left the room.
Instinctively, Vendetta's fingers brushed her lips. Quick to reassure her, Toshiro's reaction only serve to perplex Vendetta farther. But to confess this, would invite conversation she wasn't quite ready to have. A sigh escaped her, then a smile crept over her face. Vendetta's mind drifted to the two of them wrapped around one another, entwined in loving embrace as they fell asleep... But it also thought of more... wicked things, and she bit her lip. Somehow, those kinds of thoughts seemed... improper? Or maybe that was just cultural upbringing, among other things.
Toshiro returned to her biting her lip, thinking again. He went to say something, but her glance caught his. "I appreciate this... thank you." Vendetta finished the glass, and removed the needle from her arm.
"You're very welcome. I just hope you'll be alright smelling like me for the time being." Sipping from his glass, Toshiro watched Vendetta finish her glass and remove the needle. "Have a good shower."
With a silent, elegant yet stiff bow, she glided away- deciding to take the offer. Toshiro's gaze was glued to her as she made her way down the hall, wet dress hugging her curves nicely... Have some self-control. Has it really been so long that you've forgotten how to be a gentleman? You're acting like a teenage boy who has just discovered the fairer sex. Finishing his glass, he took them both to the kitchen, and left them in the sink.
Left alone to his thoughts, his mind went back to the alleyway- the weight of the katana in his hands, the feeling of the blade sinking into the lycan's flesh, drops of blood spraying onto his face as its head departed its shoulders. It was an exhilarating experience, one he hadn't encountered in so long. In the back of his mind, a voice called to him- crying out for him to go back out, turn the tables, make the predators the prey... Physically, Toshiro ended up shaking himself from the thoughts and the rabbit hole he had fallen into.
Shaky legs carrying him back into the living room, he took a seat on the stool in front of the easel- keeping his mind busy in an attempt to not fall back into those thoughts...
~
Meanwhile, Vendetta found herself in a small, dark bathroom, steam rolling over her. Dark, hot showers were something she adored... Stripping, she rinsed her clothes and left them to dry, before stepping inside, hissing in agony. Heat seared her nerves, but she had to endure it in order to warm up. Slowly, surely, she did... Vendetta washed off- grateful he had decent things in his shower. Truly, they shared similar taste for the finer things.
Once she finally peeled herself from the shower, Vendetta dried off. Leaving everything to dry, she took a moment to tidy. Gliding across the hall, Vendetta perused Toshiro's closet. Interesting, she thought as she looked. Traditional and modern- a real mix... I approve~
Eventually, Vendetta pulled put a silken black button-up shirt, and slipped into it. She unbuttoned it daringly low, mostly from a wish not to damage it. Coming back down the hall, Vendetta stood in the door frame. Hearing footsteps from down the hall, he put down his brush and turned around- a blood moon now joining the swordsman in the painting. Fitting, yet just a touch disconcerting... Vendetta was recalling things she'd rather forget...
Demure yet beautiful, her hair fell in waves; the colour returned- rosiness flushed her skin, ruby red filling her irises once more. Her lips lost the deathly-blue tone, replaced with a rosy pink. Toshiro's cheeks burned vivid red as Vendetta came fully into view, his black shirt just making it down to mid-thigh, and the buttons she had left undone giving way to her cleavage. "I can't thank you enough, that was exactly what I needed... I feel much better, finally."
"...I must say, you wear that shirt so much better than I ever have..." Getting up form the stool he walked over to her, taking her hand in his- feeling for himself the warmth that had once again returned to her. Bringing her hands to his lips, he kissed the back of her hand, taking her natural scent mixed in with his soaps. She smiled, trying not to show how much that gesture made her weak in the knees.
She grinned, giving in to a wicked impulse. Vendetta's fingers found their way into Toshiro's hair- gripping it firm, yet gentle- forcing him to look down at her. He got a good glance of the glimmer in her eyes- and her cleavage prominently on display... "Continue to charm me like that, and you might just end up seeing how it looks on your floor~" With a very quick brushing of his lips, she stepped back, smiling innocent and sweet.
Toshiro's cheeks turned even darker. If he hadn't already been off guard, her words- along with the briefest of kisses- had sent him over the edge.
"...I- I'll take this opportunity, to wash up as well... It''ll be nice to change out of these wet things, and into something more comfortable. As I said before... make yourself at home..." Barely finding his words, he made his way toward the bathroom. Vendetta barely repressed a laugh, watching hin run off.
"Don't worry, I shall~" Immediately, Vendetta took a quick look around. She found some supplies, cleaning the blood and water left everywhere. The rain rolled on, thick and icy, while Vendetta washed and the glasses aside. Looking around his kitchen, she got an idea...
~
Undressing, Toshiro took the opportunity to rinse the blood off his clothes before tossing them into the hamper. After setting a clean towel out for himself, he stepped into the hot shower, letting out a sigh of relief as the water washed over him. Just standing underneath the hot water for a few minutes allowed him to relax, before beginning to was off.
As he stood under the water, her words replayed in his mind- biting his lip, he imagined laying in bed with her, the shirt on the floor, his eyes slowly taking in the beautiful sight before him... Taking longer in the shower to make sure he was calmed down, Toshiro couldn't help but wonder where the rest of the night would take them.
Turning off the water, he dried off, wrapping the towel around his waist as he crossed the hall to get dressed in his bedroom. A few minutes later, he walked down the hall- wearing only a pair of black silk shorts. His long black hair that was usually tied back was free, bouncing around as he walked. "It's so much better to be out of those wet things."
Toshiro's voice drifted to where she was, in the kitchen. "I concur- there's nothing quite like being warm and dry after a solid drenching." Astringent tea, and a vanilla tint, filled the air. Vendetta appeared in the living room once more, having found Toshiro's tea supplies. She set down the tray, having taken the time to prepare matcha. Kneeling on the floor beside the table, in the Geisha style- there was that persona again- Vendetta poured him a cup- and slid it over with an elegant little bow. "I hope you don't take offence... I thought some tea would be good. Nothing quite warms the soul like matcha- even if I did tweak it a little."
Joining her at the table, Toshiro bowed his head as she slid the cup in front of him. "I can't think of a better way to unwind on such a cold, rainy night than with a cup of matcha and the company of a beauty."
The situation reminded him of his life in Japan. One of his greatest pleasures having been spending an evening with a geisha. Just like the night before, it always seemed like time would slip away from him before he knew it. Taking the warm cup into his hands, he slowly brought it to his lips, taking in the lovely aroma before sipping. The rich, earthy flavour of matcha at the forefront, with just a hint of vanilla- followed by the lingering sweet aftertaste. It reminded Toshiro of Vendetta herself, traditional with a twist. "I shouldn't be surprised that you so expertly prepared the matcha, but still- it warms my heart to have a glimpse of Japan here in Venice."
Vendetta could only give off her enigmatic smile in response to his words- and when she spoke next, it was not just in Japanese, but a soft-spoken tone. "It shouldn't surprise you, and yet it does. Comforting touches of home, set in a world away... Surprising what will come, in due time- is it not?"
Toshiro and Vendetta spent the entire night in conversation. Among the things she spoke of when she led, touches of her life. Unlike many of the vampyres in Venice, Vendetta was born as such- not turned. She travelled far to arrive here, in order to pursue a natural talent. At one point, she mentioned two sisters and a brother- Alistana, Krisaga and Vrael. Their whereabouts were not elaborated upon.
In addition to painting, Vendetta held capability for the western art of violin, writing, and the Japanese art of dance. Given her status as a revered artisan, this made perfect sense. Dipping into discussion of bloodlines, Vendetta's carried strong elemental, healing and shadow magick- interestingly enough, she had not any fledglings. Nor would she tell him who was in her bloodline. Toshiro got the sense she was hiding many things...
It felt like forever since Toshiro last held a conversation in his native tongue, but easily found himself falling into his archaic Kinai dialect. Eager to learn more about the mysterious Vendetta, he hung onto her every word, committing everything she told him of herself to memory. While there seemed to be things she was hiding, Toshiro did not wish to pry- assuring himself that she would tell him in time, when she felt she was comfortable.
Adding to the conversation Toshiro spoke of his own life. Just as Vendetta was, Toshiro had also been born. His bloodline had blessed him with strong transmutation and conjuration magicks. Briefly mentioning an older brother, Tetsuo, stirred similar feelings in the Lady. Just from the way he spoke of his brother, it was plain to see that they weren't exactly on good terms with one another. There was no mention of fledglings- Toshiro instead elaborated on his past, before his journey to Venice.
In his early years, the idea of becoming an artist couldn't have been any farther from Toshiro's mind. He set upon a much different path, then would find himself on this path later in life. Instead of creating works of art, he revelled in the chance to test his swordsmanship against those who would cross blades with him- not caring if it meant ending another life. Brash and eager, he would take any opportunity for a fight- whether the odds were stacked against him or not. The concept of right and wrong was lost on the aspiring master swordsman, taking up jobs from anyone of he thought it would give him a test of his skills. Toshiro quickly found himself with the moniker of the Crimson Swordsman- for both the colour of the kimono he wore, and how his eyes seemed to glow in the midst of battle.
Vendetta listened, entranced by Toshiro's story- her lacquered smile never left her lips... But if he was observant, he could tell Vendetta hid unease. She knew of the Crimson Swordsman... It took her a spell, but she remembered the name. Biting her tongue, Vendetta listened- the perfect guest, as he elaborated. Brash, eager, reckless, immoral... The exact sort Vendetta held a strong dislike for. She recalled the crimson glow to his eyes, the he way he nearly drew his sword back in the alley- when all she'd done was gingerly touch him, in the name of healing... Vendetta barely repressed a shiver. It reminded her of times she'd rather not think about...
For them, it was like being in the twilight world of the tea houses. True, there was less formality- and less painted, silken beauty- but the spirit remained strong. All night, Vendetta ensured Toshiro was cared for- tea tea flowed free, conversation brilliant, she attentive and charming. It almost felt like she knew something about... Eventually the skies lightened- but the rain persisted still. Vendetta repressed a yawn, but he could tell she was spent. "Sunrise already... where does time escape to?"
"I always seem to lose grasp of time in your presence. It's bittersweet, that time seems to flow so freely in good company." As Vendetta took the tea implements away, she was thinking about where she could escape the light of day. Immediately her mind went to his room, but she shook her head. That's his place, I'm sure he wants his privacy... I'm sure I can find somewhere dark to hide for the day. Vendetta wasn't sure how to approach that delicate subject, as she returned to the living room. She decided it was best to let him decide.
Toshiro rose as she returned to the living room. His familiar smile danced across his lips, as he held his hand out to her. "I'm sure that we could both use some well-deserved sleep. Shall we retire to the bedroom? The sunlight cannot hope to reach us there." Trying to stay calm as he spoke, a light blush graced his cheeks, thinking about sharing his bed with the beauty before him. In this moment, Toshiro was thankful he didn't really have a heartbeat.
Readily accepting the proffered hand and following along, Vendetta took in the minimalist elegance of his room- contrasted with works she'd love to add to her collection. I think he would hate my opulence... Easily sliding the blanket back, her body slid fluidly into the bed- she smiled as he joined her.
The smile on Toshiro's face grew as his gaze focused entirely on Vendetta. Leaning over, he placed a gentle kiss on her soft lips, resting a hand on the back of her head as he let the moment linger on. Despite their encounter earlier in the evening, he couldn't have hoped to have a better night than the one they shared. Reminders of home and learning more about his Lady was more than he could have hoped for. Quiet moans came from the Lady, as she closed her eyes, surrendering to his embrace- and sleep- immediately...
Pulling Vendetta close to himself, it took Toshiro no time at all to drift off to sleep, the night's events having wore him down, her scent soothing him. A smile spread across his face as he slept peacefully throughout the day...
~
Nightfall came once more- and with it, smoke filled the night sky, a blood moon hanging high above as Toshiro crested the hill. His eyes widened as they fell upon the burning village before him. Moving as fast as his legs would take him, he was greeted by a familiar figure casually walking out of the inferno, a wicked grin spread across his face. Without a word, both men drew their swords- the clanging of blades echoed throughout the night, joined by roaring flames. Toshiro fell to his knees, the blade at his throat being the only thing keeping him up at this point. Multitudes of deep cuts rendered both his arms unusable, as a puddle of blood formed underneath him. His katana laid on the ground, blade broken into pieces...
Meanwhile, Vendetta ran through a twisted, dark forest. Battling icy rain, trying to desperately escape whoever killed them all... Father, the servants... Vrael, Alie... Krissie... Ending up on a cliff side, trapped by torrential ocean- death or surrender, her only choices. Disoriented, Vendetta was caught in a bloody fight, invisible opponent whittling her away. She knew not who, or why. At one point, her weapon was lost- tossed over the cliff. Dropping to her knees, a silhouette stepped forth- Vendetta could only see crimson eyes, the glint of a blade as lightning flashed, going for her throat...
She gasped, sitting straight up- wide-eyed in shock as the nightmare abruptly ended. Gripping the sheets, Vendetta had to steady herself- that was a nightmare she'd not had in a long time. Last night, the way Toshiro reacted- he would never try to kill her, like they had... would he? Still, her body trembled as adrenaline surged, feeling tears stinging her eyes... Looking at him in unrest, her mind started exploring- intuition pulling her to a conclusion she didn't like...
Waking in a cold sweat shortly after her, Toshiro sat up- hand immediately going to his throat. He swore he could still feel the blade cutting into him. Slowly calming down, he realized Vendetta was awake as well; something seemed off with her. Wiping the sweat from his face, he moved over to her, slowly reaching for her hand. "Is everything alright?"
When Toshiro's hand touched Vendetta's, he couldn't have expected her reaction. Yanking it away, she leapt out of the bed, facing him- silver eyes stared at him, tears threatening to spill over. One of her hands was on her own throat, a phantom blade cutting it- not unlike himself. It took her a moment, to recall her surroundings.
Toshiro's eyes widened. Whatever nightmare had plagued her seemed to have shaken her profoundly. Her ruby eyes turned silver, a sight he had yet to see. He was left to wonder what exactly it meant. With her hand on her throat like his, another question filled Toshiro's mind- wondering if their nightmares were somehow connected.
Vendetta sighed softly. "Nightmare..." The word barely whispered, she kept her eyes intently on him. A moment of relief washed over him, when she spoke.
"It seems I was not... the only one, then." For some reason, she refused to get closer. Though she watched his every move...
"Tell me yours... and then, I will decide if I wish to share mine."
He hoped it would mark her beginning to relax, but the situation seemed quite the opposite. His every movement tracked carefully, he noted how her fangs and nails instinctively extended. He wondered what could have happened in her dream, to put her so on edge. Sitting up, he slowly exhaled.
"...It was the middle of night- smoke filled the air, a blood moon hung high in the sky. I crested a hill to see the village below engulfed in roaring flames. I ran down the hill towards the village, and there I was confronted by my own brother, Tetsuo. A fight broke out, that ended with me on my knees, in a pool of my own blood... A blade at my throat, and my katana laying before me in pieces..." Phantom pain wracked each wound he suffered in the nightmare, as he recalled it out loud.
Vendetta listened, silent- taking careful note. His nightmares had been plagued with fire, pain, betrayal... she could picture it all, as he spoke- though his brother in her mind's eye, mere silhouette. Sadness painted her features in her eyes, amber swirling in the silver.
She nodded gently. Definitely, her eyes displayed emotions- but he couldn't tell which ones. Vendetta tipped her head to one side, sapphire taking over now. "For your brother's sake... I sincerely hope he's no longer alive. Trust me when I say, whatever happened before will be a Heaven... compared to the Hell I'll put him through, for what he's done. Then again..."
In that moment, as she spoke, Vendetta returned to the bed. Easily she slid between the sheets... Her body settled, straddling him- pinning him to the bed. Blush crept along Toshiro's cheeks. She knew how the situation had to look- but it was intentional misguidance, so she could get close enough to have him where she needed. She twisted his hands behind his back and held them fast with one of her own, nails digging in. The other gripped his jaw- painful, at that. "...he might not be the only one."
Wincing as her nails dug into him, he was confused by the situation changing in an instant. One moment she seemed to be fearing for her life, and the next it seemed they would be sharing an intimate moment. Both the blush and his thoughts faded, as the gravity of the situation hit him. Being forced to meet her sapphiric gaze, he could feel the intense emotions radiating from her. The way she held his face in place, it felt like she could break his jaw at any moment.
Impulse, wicked and sadistic, washed over her. She wanted to feel him shatter at her hands, without yet knowing why... Vendetta let the words sink in, before speaking on. "I was running through a dark forest in a terrible storm... running from my life. My entire family was cut down- Father, our servants. Vrael and Alie. Even Krissie... I was the only one left. Eventually, ensnared by a cliffside, I could either face my assailant, or jump. It ended the same yours did- with me on my knees, coated in blood and rain... a blade at my throat... and crimson eyes, right before I was killed. Familiar crimson eyes, at that...
And this is where you come in, dear Toshiro... I am going to ask you a question. Think about it, before you answer. Do you ever, at any point when you were a swordsman, remember hunting down a family- with the last name Shadowsteel?"