Archive of Our Own ^beta

Chapter Text

1820, Philadelphia

The night belonged to the vampires. It was their day, the time when the world was theirs to roam, hidden beneath the cloak of darkness. The streets lay quiet, abandoned by humans who preferred the warmth of their homes over the cold, creeping air of the season. The city, bathed in the pale glow of the moon, became a stage for creatures who thrived in the absence of light.

Seth, an aristocratic vampire of refined taste, had long prepared for this night. Unlike others of his kind, he held a peculiar sympathy for humans, an empathy that made feeding directly from them a task he could not bear. Instead, he relied on hunters – vampires who hunted for blood and sold it to those in need. That night, as he had arranged, he collected a bottle of blood, carefully stored in an old wine bottle, from one such associate.

Dressed impeccably, as always, Seth wore a white, ruffled shirt beneath a fitted black vest, his sleeves elegantly exposed. His tailored trousers and heeled boots gave him an air of sophistication, and the long leather coat that draped over his frame only added to his noble demeanor. The cold, though biting at a mere seven degrees, was nothing to him. He enjoyed the solitude of the deserted streets, relishing the tranquility that the night provided. As he walked, he idly hummed a melody he had been practicing on the violin, his mind drifting between the tune and the intricate details of his latest marble sculpture.

Elsewhere in the city, another vampire stirred – a far cry from Seth’s composed elegance. 

He was hungry.

The kind of hunger that gnawed at his very core, that sent sharp pangs through his being, demanding to be sated. It had been days since his last proper meal, and he had grown desperate. The animals of the town had long become a poor substitute, and he had no desire to repeat past mistakes – he would not drain the local wildlife to extinction again. But humans had grown scarce at night. Whether it was the creeping cold or an unspoken fear of the darkness, fewer and fewer wandered the streets after sunset.

Leaning against a tall, weathered streetlamp, he allowed his eyes to scan his surroundings. The only sources of light were the dim glow of the moon, peeking through the shifting clouds, and the weak flickers of dying flames in the street lanterns. Then – he caught it.

A scent.

Rich. Thick. Undeniable.

Blood.

His senses sharpened, his instincts flaring to life. His eyes darted around, seeking the source. The rhythmic tapping of heels against the moss-covered cobblestones grew steadily louder, and with it, the intoxicating scent of fresh blood. His pulse – had he still possessed one – would have quickened. This was it. A fortunate night at last.

He adjusted the lapels of his black coat, letting it settle over his equally dark, loose-fitting shirt, its ruffled edges cascading like waves. His high-waisted trousers elongated his already tall frame, his attire starkly contrasting with the blonde colour of his shoulder-length hair. As the figure approached, he stepped forward, emerging from the shadows with the grace of a predator.

And there – standing beneath the faint glow of the lantern – was his prey.

A delicate frame. Long, flowing black curls. An air of elegance.

A woman, surely.

A smirk curled on his lips as he took a step closer, his voice smooth, laced with seductive charm.

— What is a beauty like yourself doing alone at such a late hour? — His eyes, sharp and gleaming with intent, roamed over his newfound prize. But then, his gaze landed on the bottle clutched in delicate hands. His smirk deepened. — Perhaps we should take that wine to my place. — he murmured, stepping closer, his breath brushing against the figure’s ear as he leaned in slightly. — Share a drink. Get to know each other a little better, ma chère.

Seth had sensed him long before he spoke.

There was something… off about him. Not quite human, not quite vampire. A transformed one. A fledgling who had once been mortal but now existed in the liminal space between life and undeath. The scent was strange – both sweet and bitter, a contradiction in itself.

Seth had hoped to be ignored, to be left to his musings. But, of course, that was not to be.

He stopped, listening as the stranger’s footsteps approached. The scent of blood from the bottle hidden within his coat must have drawn him in. That much was clear. Yet, even as the other vampire neared, Seth remained composed. Until–

Until the man mistook him for a woman.

A quiet chuckle threatened to escape him. It was not the first time, nor would it be the last. His long, curly hair often led to such confusion, especially from behind.

Rather than correct him immediately, Seth decided to play along.

— A lady, I am not… — he began, his voice smooth, deep – undeniably masculine. He turned, letting the dim light illuminate his face, revealing sharp, refined features, a strong jawline, and the faintest trace of stubble. — But — he continued, his lips curving into an amused smile — I would be delighted to get better acquainted with you, sir. And I assure you, the wine is of the finest quality. I believe you will find it… exquisite.

His tone, now carrying a subtle, teasing lilt, mirrored the stranger’s own flirtation, turning the game back on him.

The night had suddenly become far more interesting.

Chapter Text

For the briefest moment, a flicker of surprise flashed across the stranger’s face before he swiftly masked it with a sharper, more confident expression. His smirk widened, his eyes glinting with something dark – something dangerous.

— Even better, mon cher. — he murmured, his voice smooth, effortlessly low. He straightened, pulling away slightly, yet his gaze remained locked onto Seth, drinking in his features with an intensity that bordered on hunger. A pale hand swept through blonde strands before extending outward in invitation. — Then allow me to take you to my place. We’ll enjoy this wine in peace. — There was calm in his voice, but something primal lurked beneath it – something that lurked just beneath the surface, waiting. It didn’t matter to him whether Seth took the offered hand or not. He focused elsewhere. His thoughts were clouded by the anticipation of sinking his fangs into that invitingly pale throat. He could already feel the surge of vitality flooding his being, the warmth of fresh blood driving away the sluggishness that plagued his nights.

Seth, however, ignored the gesture entirely, slipping his own hand into the pocket of his coat in slight disgust.

He had already pieced together the situation.

This vampire – this transformed vampire – had no "special" abilities. That much was clear. Which meant he likely assumed Seth was human.

Or… perhaps not.

Perhaps he knew exactly what Seth was and simply didn’t care.

That alone was intriguing.

Seth studied the man before him, noting the telltale signs of hunger – the slight hollowness of his features, the way his skin seemed a shade too ashen even under the dim glow of the lanterns. He was starving. Desperate. And desperation often led to recklessness. That was why he had approached so boldly, so suddenly.

But Seth was unbothered.

The blood in his possession was of the highest quality, rich and untouched by the impurities of fear or struggle. And in the end, blood was blood.

A single nod was all the agreement Seth gave before following alongside his newfound companion, moving in tandem through the silent streets. From the corner of his eye, the vampire beside him stole glances, his gaze sharp, calculating, as if sizing him up.

— If you are no lady... — the stranger finally broke the silence — ...then tell me, what is a handsome gentleman such as yourself doing alone at this hour? — his voice was smooth, carefully controlled, yet Seth could sense the restraint beneath it.

He was being watched. Studied.

It was a curious thing. Most vampires who suffered extended hunger became impatient, aggressive. Yet this one still held onto his composure – barely.

He was circling his prey, savoring the moment.

— I went out for wine. — he said simply, shifting the bottle ever so slightly within his coat pocket. — As I’m sure you’ve already noticed. — a harmless enough answer on the surface, yet Seth wondered how much the man would question it. After all, who wandered out in the dead of night, in the biting cold, for the sake of wine?

Then again, he was certain his companion was far more interested in his blood than the one in the bottle.

Above them, the sky was unusually clear for the time of year, the stars sparkling like scattered diamonds in a velvety expanse of black. It was rare to witness such clarity this time of year, and Seth secretly appreciated it. These were the moments he treasured the most – the solitude, the silence, the peace of the world around him.

Well...maybe except for the company of a stranger, but the situation was interesting enough to be amusing.

He turned his gaze back to the stranger beside him, his eyes sparkling with quiet curiosity.

— May I know your name, sir? — The question was delivered with polite charm, as natural as any other conversation he might have had. Yet there was an edge of intrigue to it. The man walking beside him held a certain… human beauty to him. Perhaps that was why Seth found him oddly fascinating. He had never seen a transformed vampire before, so there was something about this one that unsettled him in a way he could not quite place.

His companion seemed to hesitate for only a fraction of a second before answering.

— Carmen Chauvet. — he said, his tone clipped yet smooth. Then, with a smirk that was nearly predatory, he continued: — Tell me, does your name match your beauty?

Seth only let out a soft, forced chuckle, shaking his head slightly.

— Seth Cruorem.

Short. Simple.

Seth cast another glance at Carmen, subtle yet searching.

Something about this man was off.

Not just hunger.

Not just the fact that he was a transformed vampire.

Something else.

And that… intrigued him.

— So I was not mistaken. — he murmured. 

— How much farther, if I may ask, Mr. Chauvet? — Seth inquired, his voice smooth, pleasant even.

Carmen’s eyes flicked toward him, an amused glint sparking in their depths. Then, his voice dropped slightly as he gestured ahead.

— Not much now. We’ll take a shorter path. — Without waiting for a response, he veered off, leading Seth into a more secluded side street.

It was not entirely dark – enough light from distant lanterns reached its entrance – but it was undeniably isolated.

Perfect.

Carmen moved ahead, his steps light yet purposeful. His mind raced.

Should he do it here?

The hunger was clawing at him, demanding release.

But no – too risky. He needed discretion.

Patience.

At least until they reached the safety of his home.

He reached the end of the alleyway before turning slightly, glancing over his shoulder to ensure Seth had followed. Then, with a smile that was both encouraging and wicked, he nodded toward a nearby door.

— Just here. — he murmured, his voice dripping with promise.

His home.

His territory.

And soon – if all went as planned – his long-awaited feast.

Chapter Text

The cold night air clung to Seth’s skin like a second layer, though it didn’t truly bother him. He let out a quiet sigh, picking up his pace ever so slightly as they neared the door.

— Let’s hurry. I’m starting to freeze . — He lied effortlessly, casting a glance over his shoulder at Carmen.

If he played this right, there wouldn’t be a problem. The blood in the bottle should be enough. Still, an unease lingered at the edges of his thoughts. Carmen had taken him for a human – Seth was sure of that. The way he moved, the way he spoke, all of it fit too well into the predator-prey dynamic of a vampire who had yet to recognize his own kind. He only hoped Carmen wouldn’t catch on too soon.

— Of course, mon cher.

Carmen’s voice was smooth as he pulled open the door, stepping aside to let Seth enter first. He followed close behind, his presence an unshakable shadow. Even without turning around, Seth could feel him – close enough that if he so wished, he could reach out and…

No. Not yet.

The apartment was small, but not poor. It was well-kept, comfortably aged in the way old buildings often were. There was a quiet charm to it, an echo of decades past. Seth liked that. He had always had an appreciation for places with history.

Carmen moved with effortless grace, sliding Seth’s coat from his shoulders before he could protest. He placed it neatly on the rack, then gestured toward the modest wooden table with two chairs.

— Sit down, please.

Seth hesitated only for a moment before complying, placing the bottle on the table as he did. Carmen disappeared into the kitchen, leaving him alone with his thoughts. A restless energy settled into his fingers, and before he could stop himself, he was drumming his nails against the wooden surface. He needed the blood – soon. The scent was already teasing at his senses, hidden beneath the glass. He barely noticed when Carmen returned, though the clink of delicate glass against the table drew his attention.

The glasses were exquisite, clearly antique. The glass bore intricate leaf-like engravings, while the rim and base shimmered with silver embellishments. A refined choice. Seth allowed himself a small smile.

— May I ask what vintage this wine is from? — Carmen’s voice was steady, but Seth caught the way his gaze flickered toward the bottle. Curious, but not yet suspicious.

Seth let out a soft chuckle, shrugging.

— Oh! I have no idea, honestly. The seller assured me it was good. I’ve been buying from him for years, and, well… I never really paid attention to the details. —  it was a seamless lie. Or at least, he hoped it was. He couldn’t exactly tell Carmen that the bottle contained blood, carefully harvested from a thirty-four-year-old man.

The bottle lacked the typical cork of fine wine, another detail that might have raised questions if Carmen had been paying attention. Seth twisted off the cap with ease. Immediately, the rich, unmistakable scent of blood filled the space between them. It was thick, far too thick to be wine, but Seth moved with the same practiced grace as always. He reached for Carmen’s glass first.

— Allow me.

The deep red liquid poured smoothly, coating the inside of the glass like velvet. He handed it to Carmen before filling his own, then leaned back, crossing one leg over the other. His gaze never left Carmen’s face. He was waiting. Watching.

Carmen, to his credit, did not react immediately. But Seth saw the way his pupils dilated, the way his grip on the glass tightened ever so slightly. The scent had reached him. The realization had set in.

Slowly, Carmen brought the glass to his nose, inhaling deeply. There was no mistaking it now. It was blood.

The pieces clicked into place.

For centuries, Carmen had searched. And when he had finally stopped looking, convinced he was the last of his kind… Seth appeared.

His expression shifted, subtle but unmistakable. The warmth, the charm – gone. In its place, something sharper. Colder. This was Carmen stripped of performance, stripped of flirtation. The predator, staring at something – or someone – he had never expected to find.

— You know… — he mused, almost absently, as if testing the words aloud. — You’re the first vampire I’ve ever encountered. I searched for centuries. And the moment I stopped… you appeared.

Seth studied him in return, taking in the shift. Carmen was not one to dance around the truth, it seemed. Now that the illusion had cracked, he had no reason to continue the play. But Seth still didn’t know – was Carmen older? Stronger? Wiser? Or was he simply another relic, lost in time, unsure of what to do now that he was no longer alone?

He exchanged glances with Carmen, his subtle smile shifting into an expression of surprise. The first vampire he had ever met? It sounded absurd, the most ridiculous thing he had ever heard. He couldn’t quite believe it. But as the thought settled in, he began to wonder – just how long had Carmen lived in ignorance of others like him? A year? Two? Five? A decade? A century? Or even longer?

— Mr. Chauvet, let’s not be dramatic. Just how old are you that you take such a desperate tone? It’s not that difficult to meet another vampire – especially in this city. — Seth’s voice held a trace of amusement as he took his glass between his pale, elegant fingers, raising it slightly toward Carmen. — Shall we drink? I assume hunger is not doing you any favors either. Conversations are always dreadful and unpleasant on an empty stomach.

Carmen narrowed his eyes slightly, exhaling in irritation at Seth’s apparent amusement. Still, he gave a small nod – Seth had a point. Hunger rarely makes for good conversation. He brought the glass to his lips, taking a deep sip before subtly licking away the remnants and sighing in relief. He had begun to think he would never get this chance.

— With all due respect, Monsieur Cruorem… — he let out a humorless chuckle before finally locking eyes with the other vampire. — I dare say I have been waiting for this moment for over four hundred years. — His voice grew more serious as he spoke, making it clear that he was not joking. With that, he took another deep drink, emptying the glass entirely.

Seth followed suit, savoring the thick, rich sweetness of the blood. It was intoxicatingly fresh—one of the finest he had tasted in ages. He quickly finished the rest and set the glass down with care before leaning back in his chair, exhaling contentedly. His gaze flickered back to Carmen, studying him with renewed interest.

— Four hundred, you say? — Seth raised an eyebrow, intrigued. That meant Carmen was older than him. He nodded in understanding, his finger tracing the rim of his glass. Fascinating . He took a moment to truly observe the other man – platinum blond hair, eyes that shimmered like emeralds in the dim light, features so flawlessly human yet belonging to a creature of the night. Carmen was undeniably beautiful. Seth had so many questions but held his tongue for now, not wanting to overwhelm his newfound acquaintance. Instead, he simply smiled, his near-black eyes shifting to a deep crimson as he regarded Carmen with something akin to admiration, as if gazing upon a rare painting he might never see again. — If you have lived among mortals for so long, why did you search so desperately for another vampire? Is life among humans truly so unbearable?

Carmen met Seth’s gaze, carefully studying the younger vampire’s expression. He could sense the curiosity, the hunger for knowledge. Slowly, he refilled his glass, lifting it to his lips before answering.

— Knowing that you are not alone in this world is… a comfort. — he admitted. — Humans, despite what they may seem at first, become more lost as the centuries pass. Their attitudes shift with every generation, yet never toward understanding.

Seth hummed thoughtfully.

— Unusual… Had I known such a meeting would occur, I would have brought my journal. What a shame. — he chuckled lightly, shaking his head. — Your scent is unlike any other vampire I have encountered. It is not quite human either. Judging by your striking appearance, I suspect you weren’t born a vampire, but you are one now. I have never seen a case like yours before. That's... fascinating. — there was an undeniable passion in his voice, as if he had been waiting centuries for such an encounter as well. He absentmindedly adjusted his dark curls. Carmen would make an excellent model for a new sculpture, he mused, memorizing every detail of the older vampire’s face, knowing he would not be able to sketch it later. He licked the remaining blood from his lips before speaking again. — But I cannot comprehend your thinking. Lost mortals? Changing attitudes? Absurd! Humans are such sweet creatures. There is a woman who works at a market near my apartment – she is the kindest person I have ever met. I refuse to believe that humans are as cruel as you say.

Carmen let out a low, humorless chuckle, setting his glass down as he leaned forward slightly, his voice dropping to a lower, almost menacing tone.

— ‘Sweet creatures’? — he repeated, the words tasting bitter on his tongue. — Those sweet creatures you speak of would burn you at the stake the moment they had the chance. — He leaned back again, taking another slow sip of his drink. — As if that would somehow save them from the ‘evil’ in this world. — A smirk tugged at the corner of his lips before he licked away the last trace of blood.

Carmen had always imagined that if he ever met another vampire, they would be ruthless, brutal, indifferent to humanity – just like him. He never expected to find one who spoke of mortals with fascination. It was almost amusing.

Now, it was Carmen’s turn to study Seth. The younger vampire had spoken of his ‘unusual’ beauty, yet Carmen found Seth’s own appearance rather striking. There was something otherworldly about him, though it wasn’t immediately obvious that he was a vampire. His deep, dark eyes – darker than any he had ever seen – stood out the most, framed by impossibly long lashes. He carried himself with a refined elegance, from the way he cared for his hands to the perfect styling of his jet-black curls. Carmen could only imagine how much time he spent tending to them.

— Once, long ago, I was a human too. — he continued, his voice calmer now. — But after centuries of offering them endless chances, I can no longer see them as you do.

Seth’s enthusiasm vanished in an instant. Despite that, he maintained a friendly expression, narrowing his eyes as he leaned back into a more relaxed position. Had his years of research, his endless interviews, all been a grand illusion? His dark eyes, framed by long lashes, studied every visible inch of the other vampire’s body. His attention flickered to Carmen’s shirt, noticing its detailing – so similar to his own. Then to his lean, well-defined physique, built like a sculpture itself. For a brief moment, he found himself wondering: would it be better to sculpt him clothed or naked? But he quickly pushed the thought aside, returning to their conversation.

— I could never harm a human on purpose… I simply don’t have it in me. The very thought of taking someone’s life – someone who might have a family, a home, dreams – fills me with disgust toward what I am. — his voice carried a certain sorrow.

— For decades, I searched for vampires… and this is what I find. — Carmen’s brow furrowed slightly, though he should have been pleased to have met another of his kind at all. — In all my years as a vampire, I’ve learned to accept that it’s either them or me. No matter how far back I search my memory, not a single human who tried to burn me alive ever stopped to wonder if I had a family. You should come to terms with that, too. There’s a reason we were given this so-called ‘gift.’ We are like the reapers of fate, deciding who lives and who dies each night. I don’t see that as something to be ashamed of – but something to take pride in. You were granted incredible power, and yet you choose to waste it. — he looked at the glass in his hand, then slowly shifted his gaze back to the vampire seated across from him. Tilting his head slightly to the side, he continued in a calmer tone. — Eventually, the ‘wine’ will run out. And then you’ll have to feed another way. — Draining his glass, he leaned back into his chair, locking eyes with Seth. He waited patiently, expecting some kind of response from the dark-haired vampire.

Seth rose to his feet, planting his hands firmly on the table. He didn’t shout, but his tone made it clear that he was frustrated.

— You can’t treat humans so callously, as if they were mere animals. Pride? Power that I’m wasting? I would rather have been born human than live with the guilt I carry now! To step outside during the day, to watch the sunrise and sunset, to feel the warmth of the sun on my skin… To shop for food in a market instead of drinking blood. There are so many things that limit me from living a normal life, and yet you tell me I should be proud of this? — Flustered and indignant, Seth didn’t even realize how aggressively he had reacted. He remained standing, his gaze now cold as he glared at Carmen.

— Easy for you to say when you’ve been surrounded by wealth your entire life. You’d sing a different tune if you had lived in filth, forced to eat scraps. If the only clean place you could find wasn’t even somewhere you could afford to look at. — His green eyes flicked up toward the vampire standing before him, a man who failed to appreciate the privilege he had. And yet… something about Seth intrigued him. A vampire protecting humans as if he were one himself – it was amusing, and at the same time, fascinating. — You amuse me. And yet, you intrigue me as well, I’ll admit. 

Seth's icy gaze lingered on Carmen, his fists clenched tight, though he realized that anger would get him nowhere.

— Wealth, you say? — His voice was calmer now. — I don’t recall ever mentioning my status, Mr. Chauvet.

Of course, Seth had never mentioned his wealth outright. But Carmen had lived long enough to recognize a man of status simply by the way he spoke, by the quality of his attire, by the effortless grace with which he carried himself. Instead of arguing, he simply gave a small nod. There was no point in debating with someone so enamored with humanity.

— Now, sit down. Anger doesn’t suit such a handsome face. — he added with a smirk. He remained still, watching and waiting for the younger vampire to comply, unwilling to let this escalate into unnecessary theatrics.

Seth inhaled deeply before sitting back down, tense. He sighed heavily, still unable to understand Carmen’s amusement. Why did his perspective entertain him so much? The vampire sitting before him was nothing like those he had encountered before. Perhaps it was because Carmen had been transformed rather than born a vampire. He had lived through something different – something Seth could not yet grasp.

— From the moment I was a child, I’ve been fascinated by the lives of mortals. Their daily routines, their fleeting joys – it always seemed… captivating to me. I often wonder what my life would have been like if I had been born as one of them.

Even so, Carmen was… disappointed. The more he saw of humanity, the less he believed in it. The cruelty, the hypocrisy — he had long since stopped looking at them as anything more than prey. Perhaps Seth had simply not lived long enough to see the world for what it truly was.

Noticing the lack of a response, Seth exhaled once more and rose from his seat. He picked up the bottle of blood, pouring the remaining liquid into Carmen’s glass. He knew the other vampire needed it more than he did – after all, he still had a few reserves at home. Then, from his pocket, he retrieved a small, stiff card and flicked it toward Carmen, letting it land just beneath his nose. It was a business card, simple yet elegant. On it, the words read:

Seth Cruorem - Sculptor, Musician, and Artist.

And beneath it, his address.

An artist? A sculptor and musician? A vampire of many talents, Carmen thought. The carefully designed card intrigued him. It was rare to meet someone so deeply immersed in the arts. Carmen himself played the piano, but his reasons for learning had been far different. He had done so out of sheer boredom, knowing he had an eternity to master it.

— If you ever need blood… or someone to talk to, you are welcome anytime, Mr. Chauvet. My doors are open to everyone . — Seth offered the older vampire a friendly smile before heading toward the door. The sharp click of his heeled boots echoed through the apartment as he walked. His dark curls bounced slightly with each step. Reaching for his coat, he attempted to slip it on – but for some reason, he struggled with it.

Carmen’s gaze lifted from the card, observing the younger vampire as he wrestled with his coat. He remained silent for a moment, then finally stepped forward, stopping just behind him.

— If you’ll allow me… — with careful hands, he adjusted the fabric, helping Seth slip it on with ease. Then, stepping back, he reached for the door and pulled it open.

Seth dipped his head slightly in gratitude, then bowed to Carmen.

— Thank you kindly for your hospitality. — Straightening up, he added: — The rest of the ‘wine’ is yours.

Flashing the older vampire one last smile, Seth turned and stepped out into the night. His pace was slow, unhurried, as he admired the beauty of the world cloaked in darkness.

Chapter Text

"I don’t know what day it is. I stopped counting after mother stopped humming.

I'm hiding from the sun under the frame of a long-unused bed.

I found this almost empty notebook. It probably originally belonged to my father, because I see tax records on the first page. My fingers hurt from scraping the walls. I'll start writing so the days don't pass me by. My days aren't very interesting, so sometimes I'll write about things that happen to me. Mother does this too. ◡̈  In fact, don't really know what she's writing. Honestly, we don't even talk. But I guess it's similar to what I'm doing now.

I think I was eight when the windows stopped opening.

Mother nailed them shut one morning. Said it was to “keep the wind out,” but I think she meant the screaming.

Not ours. We learned to be silent."

"I used to think if I stood still enough, I could disappear.

He hated movement. Said fidgeting was for weaklings.

So I stopped.

I stood at the edge of the room, just behind the wardrobe. He never looked there. Or maybe he did — and didn’t care."

"There was a day I asked what love felt like.

She ᏪຊᝰᏪຊ me, hard.

I remember the sound more than the sting.

“Don’t say that word,” she whispered afterward, like it summoned something evil."

"That night I carved my name into the floorboard beneath my bed.

Se ຊ h. Just S Ꮺ th.

Like if I left proof I existed, it might matter.

I watched the blood bead up from the splinter.

I liked how quiet it was.

At least then."

1422, November or December. I'm not sure.

Transylvania

Chapter Text

Carmen never thought he would actually end up standing in front of that vampire’s door. Normally, he ignored invitations – especially those offered by humans. But this was different. This was another vampire. More than that, a potential source of blood should hunger ever seize him as mercilessly as it had four nights ago.

He held the small, stiff business card between his fingers, glancing between the address written on it and the metal plaque beside the door, ensuring he had the right place. It was already well past six, the sun long gone, giving him the freedom to hunt if he so pleased. And yet, instead of slipping into the streets in search of an easy meal, he knocked.

Seth had been awake for just about an hour. The smell of black tea still lingered in the air, a half-finished cup resting beside him in the dimly lit studio. His focus was entirely consumed by the sculpture beneath his hands – delicate features of a woman he had once glimpsed at a carnival, frozen in marble. He was carefully carving the curve of her eye when a knock at the door startled him, nearly ruining the piece. With a quiet sigh, he set down his tools and stood, already assuming it was an unscheduled client. But when he opened the door, he was met with an unexpected sight.

— Ah... — Seth blinked before offering a warm smile, casually leaning against the doorframe. — Good evening, Mr. Chauvet. I must say, I wasn’t really expecting you.

Carmen, who had been leaning lazily against the wall beside the door, straightened. He was dressed much as before – an airy black shirt with ruffled edges, though this time layered beneath a sleeveless navy vest.

— Good evening, Monsieur Cruorem. — His tone was as direct as ever. — A few nights ago, you extended an invitation – whether it be for blood or simple company. — A pause. — Regardless of how our last conversation went, it would be unwise for me to ignore such an opportunity.

Seth tilted his head. He had expected to never see this man again. But here he was.

— Of course. Be my guest. — He stepped aside, allowing Carmen to enter.

Seth’s apartment was as grand as it was intimate. Dark furniture contrasted against pale beige walls, the entire space curated with an artist’s eye for detail. Paintings and sculptures – many of them his own – were carefully placed around the room, their shadows cast in the golden glow of the wall sconces. A bookshelf, stuffed with novels, poetry collections, and leather-bound journals, loomed near a modest yet elegant seating area.

Carmen took in the space with quiet scrutiny. His gaze flickered toward a slightly open door leading into what he presumed was Seth’s studio – easily the least orderly part of the home. His assumption had been correct. The man was well-off, his surroundings evidence of wealth and refinement.

— Would you like something to drink? — Seth asked, moving toward the kitchen. His tone was casual, yet laced with subtle joy. — Coffee, tea, wine… or maybe blood?

— Blood. — Carmen answered immediately, unbothered by pleasantries.

With a small nod, Seth retrieved a bottle of thick, crimson liquid from a cabinet. He poured two glasses – made of thin, delicate glass – and carried them to the table. Setting one before Carmen, he took the seat opposite him, fingers loosely resting around the stem of his own glass.

— So... — he began smoothly, eyes settling on the other vampire. — Are you only here for the blood, or is there something more?

Carmen lifted the glass, swirling the liquid inside before taking a slow sip. He savored it, though his expression remained unreadable.

— To be honest — He mused — I couldn’t simply ignore the fact that you are the first vampire I’ve ever encountered. Wouldn’t you be just as curious? — He leaned back slightly. — Tell me, how is it that our paths have never crossed before? I assume you’ve lived here for at least a decade?

Seth blinked a few times and looked at Carmen questioningly, as if he hadn’t heard the question properly.

— I’ve lived here for over 30 years. — he said with a slight smile on his face. — This city has its own charm and atmosphere. Besides, frequent relocations would be a problem for me, considering my… — he glanced furtively at the slightly open door to his studio. — …studio, which is quite rich in various pieces.

— Understandable. So you’re an artist? Over the years, I’ve rarely come across any. Could I have seen your works somewhere before?

By saying this, Carmen was really asking whether Seth had ever exhibited his works. He was more of an observer when it came to art. He attended various art exhibitions, evening concerts, and had read countless books over the decades – a dream of his from his mortal years, when obtaining any book was nearly impossible, especially given his former wealth. He did play the piano himself, but never for anyone, except for his past friend.

— Yes, I am an artist. Although, not as good as one might assume. I could always be better. — he replied, addressing the first question. — And I don’t think so. I’ve never put my work up for auction, never held exhibitions, and never wanted to donate them to museums. I create everything privately. Occasionally, I take commissions if someone asks – at a reasonable price, of course. — Seth chuckled softly. He had always wanted to be recognized for his art, but he never had the motivation to pursue it further. Besides, if his art were to be exposed to the public, he would have to be as well. And that would mean being discovered… and death – something he obviously wished to avoid.

— Everything could always be better. But sometimes, it’s good to set humility aside and admit that one is good at what they do. — Saying this, he took a sip of blood from his delicate glass. — Judging by the decor of your home, I assume that humans – or vampires – appreciate your work and eagerly commission it. From what I can see, you must be quite skilled at what you do. 

— Well… how should I put it… Despite living in one of the wealthier districts of the city, I rarely receive commissions or even have regular clients. Maybe it’s due to the high prices, but of course, art is meant to be valued highly. — he said before taking a sip of blood from his glass. — Although, you are right. My clients are always extremely satisfied with my work. Some come only once, while others have been regular patrons for years. Honestly, I’m proud of how things are going. — He offered Carmen a faint smile before crossing one leg over the other.

Carmen didn’t return the smile but nodded instead.

— I assume you’re younger than me, but I never got any specifics. How long have you been a vampire? — He asked directly, changing the subject. He saw no reason to continue discussing the previous topic. — ‘How long have you been’ – actually, it’s better to ask when you were born as a vampire. — he corrected himself.

He tilted his head slightly, thoughtful.

— So, you’re asking about my age… I’ll be 412 soon. I was born in 1409. — He allowed himself to share more about his ‘childhood.’ — I lived with my parents until I was thirty, somewhere in what is now Transylvania, in Hungary. Once I saved enough money, I moved here. It’s been 382 years since I last saw them. It’s as if all family ties were severed the moment I relocated. No letters, no visits – nothing. — He finished his blood, placing the empty glass back on the table with a soft clink. He sighed at the mere thought of his past.

— So, vampire families aren’t much different from human ones. 

Seth chuckled awkwardly.

— Can human families be just as cruel as the vampire ones? — he asked, not realizing the weight of the words ‘just as’ in his sentence.

— From my experience, and from what I’ve seen and heard – yes. They leave without a word, and their traces disappear. — He drank the last drop, not wanting to dwell on such things. What was, was, and one must move forward. He tried to live by that, but some nights, his mind wandered back to those peaceful years. Years he missed more with each passing decade. Even if he wanted to erase them, some part of those memories would always remain. But why wish to forget good memories? Perhaps the thought of never reliving them was more painful than suppressing them. Carmen would never admit it, but he would do anything to return to the peace he felt by ᏪຊᝰᏪຊ side.

Seth looked at Carmen, trying to read some emotion from his expression, but there was nothing to read.

— Recalling the past isn’t easy, I know. Perhaps I could offer you a refill of blood? Or maybe wine? — He asked with a slight smile, though the atmosphere had become unexpectedly tense.

— Wine? Of course. I don’t think I’ve had wine in a year. — He smiled subtly at the mention of wine, gently setting his empty glass on the table and observing Seth.

Seth nodded, stood up, and took both glasses to the small kitchen. He pulled a bottle of red wine from the upper cabinet.

— Would you mind if I poured it into your glass, or would you prefer a fresh one? — He adjusted his hair before turning his head toward Carmen. He didn’t want to do anything against his guest’s wishes, so he preferred to ask first.

— The same glass is fine. — If it had been another drink, he would have asked for a fresh one, but he didn’t mind a hint of blood in his wine. As Seth stood in the kitchen, Carmen took a moment to scan him. He noticed how well-kept his hair was, how his eyes, along with his lashes, stood out against his face. He rarely met men who took care of such aspects of their appearance.

— Of course. — He smiled warmly at Carmen before pouring the wine into both glasses. He didn’t mind a trace of blood in his drink as well. Taking both glasses back to the table, he placed one in front of Carmen and the other in front of himself before sitting down and stretching slightly. His guest nodded in thanks, raising the glass of red wine. He brought it close to his nose to take in its characteristic aroma before setting it back down, letting it breathe while loosely holding the stem.

They sat in an awkward silence for a few long moments. Finally, Seth decided to break it:

— So, if I may ask – do you have a lovely lady?

— A lovely lady? No. As a vampire, it’s difficult to form any deeper bonds with another person. I can’t even recall the last time I spent an evening with a lady – without draining them dry. — He lifted his glass and took a small sip, savoring the dry taste, the subtle hint of blood lingering on his tongue. — And you? Do you have a lovely lady by your side?

— No. I never had one. I’m a loner who hasn’t felt any deep emotions toward another person in centuries. — He took a small sip of wine. He had danced with women at various events, sometimes meeting them outside those occasions. But he had never fallen in love. 

Perhaps deep down, he feared it – feared letting emotions in, only to be hurt in the end. Love is unstable and treacherous. Also understanding feelings has always been a challenge for Seth. He had never quite grasped them.

Carmen responded with a simple nod and another sip of wine.

— Why did you choose to move here?

— This city has its charms. I really enjoy its architecture. The streets at night are incredibly inviting for a walk. The people and vampires who live here are exceptionally kind and helpful. At first, I didn’t like it much, but over time, I began to love this city as if it were my hometown. It contrasts greatly with Transylvania, which helps keep unwanted memories at bay. — He smiled sincerely at the other vampire. — And you, Mr. Chauvet? What brought you to these parts?

— I used to travel a lot, but recently I decided that it’s good to take a break from it and have a place to call my own. This city just happened to be the closest. I must agree with you – the architecture here is stunning. You can still feel the old spirit of this place, which I deeply appreciate. Hunts usually end successfully, which is also to my advantage.

— Ah, traveling can be quite the hassle. Prices for apartments or houses vary everywhere, and you never know if someone will ask you to move out the next day. — He took a sip from his glass. — I’ve always preferred staying in one place. Traveling just isn’t for me. Though, there are so many beautiful places I’d love to visit one day. — His thoughts drifted to gardens, mountains, seas, and lakes – places still out of his reach for now.

— If you ever change your mind, you have centuries ahead of you to travel. — Indeed, Carmen had been to many places – both beautiful and dreadful. He had wandered from city to city, sometimes from state to state, and once even from country to country. But that was decades ago.

— I know. Centuries are a long time. But traveling alone seems boring. Maybe one day I’ll meet someone who’d want to accompany me, listen to me along the way, and not just ignore my presence. — He murmured, then ran a fingernail along the rim of his glass, lost in the many scenarios of what his future might hold. Seth had always been a dreamer. Ambitious, yes, but he didn’t always pursue his goals. More often than not, his ideas remained just that – never started, never realized.

Carmen nodded slightly, then raised an eyebrow. His gaze lowered to his half-empty wine glass.

— I have nothing planned in the coming weeks – perhaps even months. If you ever decide that I am that ‘someone you might meet one day,’ I could take you to a few places. The city won’t panic if it sees its favorite vampire has vanished somewhere. — He finished with a slight smile. The last sentence could have sounded like a threat, though, to be fair, almost anything could sound like a threat coming from him – especially considering the way his gaze could pierce through people.

Noticing – perhaps for the first time – Carmen’s smile, Seth felt a strange warmth in his chest. Even though the last sentence did indeed sound like a threat, he wasn’t particularly bothered by it. Excitedly, he began tapping his fingers lightly against his glass.

— Ah, please don’t call me ‘the city’s favorite vampire.’ I have many acquaintances, but I’m not particularly liked around here. And of course, I’d love to go somewhere with you, whether in the near future or sometime later – provided I can be sure you don’t intend to kill me, Mr. Chauvet. God knows whether you lean toward cannibalism or not. — He chuckled lightly. He wasn’t even sure if he was joking or not. Deep down, he did feel some unease about the vampire sitting across from him. Almost instinctively, he quickly adjusted his hair and took a small sip from his glass.

— Cannibalism? Not at all! I will admit – you do have an attractive scent. But I would never stoop to cannibalism. Not in any case. Yes, I have killed many humans in my lifetime, but I would never kill a vampire. — He spoke calmly before letting out a subtle chuckle to himself. — I didn’t think I gave off the impression of a vampire with a taste for his own kind. — He took a sip of wine, the faint smile on his lips revealing his fangs.

— Attractive, you say? — Seth burst into uncontrolled laughter. — I know I have an overly feminine appearance that some might find attractive, but an attractive scent? Pffft... — He laughed again, unable to stop himself. Once he calmed down a little, he added: — Well, in the first few minutes of our time together, I seriously wondered whether or not you were a cannibal. I wasn’t sure if you knew I was a vampire or not. Honestly, I was genuinely afraid for my life around you. And yet, it turns out you are quite… charming, considering your aura.

— ‘Overly’? I wouldn’t go that far. And scent – yes, it can be attractive. As a vampire, my senses are heightened. I thought yours were too. Am I mistaken? — Carmen partially agreed with Seth about his appearance but didn’t think it was overly feminine. Yes, some of his facial features could suggest that, but to Carmen, Seth’s features were still masculine. His hair might cause confusion when viewed from behind – it had even deceived Carmen at the beginning of their acquaintance. He suspected he wasn’t the only one. But long hair didn’t make Seth any less masculine. At least, that’s how Carmen saw it. — You laugh a lot. — Although it might have sounded like a criticism or something that bothered him, it wasn’t. He had no problem with it. He couldn’t even remember how many years had passed since he had last been in the presence of someone who felt at least somewhat comfortable around him.

— Oh, is that bad? — Seth’s expression immediately turned serious, and he covered his mouth with his hand, as if not wanting Carmen to see or hear his laughter. Seth was an optimist – people often told him his laughter was contagious. He had held onto those words, believing them to be true. And they were. He was always able to find a reason to smile or laugh in any situation. Yet, his enthusiasm instantly dropped at Carmen’s ‘observation.’

— Not at all. I simply can’t remember the last time someone laughed around me. — It sounded odd, but it was the truth. Carmen furrowed his brows slightly, noticing the sudden change in Seth’s expression. He should have phrased it differently. And at the same time, Seth shouldn’t have taken it so seriously. Carmen averted his gaze for a moment before looking back at Seth.

Seth met Carmen’s gaze and slowly removed his hand from his face. He repeated the vampire’s words in his mind before smiling again. Resting his chin on his wrist, he looked at the other vampire as if he were admiring a painting.

— Ah, well, you see! I guarantee you’ll hear plenty of laughter from me. I’m a very positive person. — His smile widened even more. He picked up his glass with his free hand and took another sip.

Following Seth’s lead, Carmen also took a sip of wine, nodding in response to his words. Despite the time they had spent together, it still felt strange to him that Seth kept looking at him as if he were a landscape painting.

In the meanwhile, Seth fell into thought. His mind drifted to the sculpture project of Carmen he had started recently. His expression grew a bit more serious before he cleared his throat and looked directly into the other man’s eyes.

— Mr. Chauvet. This might sound absurd, but… would you allow me to draw you without your… upper clothing? — Seth was extremely curious to see if Carmen’s physique was as he had imagined it. Of course, he could sculpt him with clothes on, but ruffles and fabric details required a great deal of work and focus. He was genuinely worried that his question might startle Carmen. But as the saying went – ‘No risk, no champagne.’

His guest raised an eyebrow as if he hadn’t heard Seth correctly. He truly hadn’t expected such a request from the other man. Before responding, he smiled slightly to himself.

— Monsieur, before making such requests, shouldn’t you at least invite me for a drink first? — As he continued, his smile gradually faded into a more neutral expression. — I don’t think we know each other well enough for me to agree to that – please don’t take it personally. — He tilted his head slightly and took another sip of wine, subtly licking the lingering droplets from his lips.

— A real shame. If you ever change your mind, please do let me know. — He said with a slight smile, masking his disappointment. Well, his sculpture would have to wait. The only question was – how long? 

He still had a few projects to finish, so it wasn't a big deal anyway.

— Why do you care so much? — Carmen tried to read something from Seth’s expression but failed.

— I’m a sculptor. My passion is preserving things that fascinate me. Since you’re the only transformed vampire I’ve ever met, it’s obvious that I’m fixated on you, Mr. Chauvet. — He said, realizing that his words sounded like he had developed an obsession with the other vampire at first sight.

'Fixated?' Carmen repeated the man’s words in his mind and lowered his gaze to the glass set before him.

— Ah, I see. — He turned his eyes back to the vampire.

Seth gazed deeply, almost intensely, into Carmen’s eyes. The man truly intrigued him. Those stunning green yet eerie and chilling eyes that he would love to capture on a painting someday, that uninviting expression yet warm smile that seemed to appear so rarely, and that beautiful, long blonde hair. The vampire wasn’t sure if the man was forcing himself to spend time with him or if he was simply tolerating his presence and chatter. Asking outright wasn’t an option – he’d sound like an overthinker worried about being annoying.

He sighed silently. Carmen was such an incredibly fascinating yet mysterious person. He wondered if their acquaintance would end after just a few meetings or if it would last longer. His gaze drifted to the remnants of wine at the bottom of his glass.

Carmen frowned slightly at the sight of Seth staring so intensely at him. He’d be lying if he said it didn’t bother him. He was used to people looking at him like that only when they intended to harm him. Apparently, artists just had that kind of gaze. He tried to ignore it. He picked up the wine bottle and poured some for both Seth and himself.

Seth got snapped out of his trance by the act of Carmen pouring him wine, he simply nodded in gratitude and took a sip. He glanced briefly at the other vampire before attempting to resume their conversation.

— You mentioned that you’ve traveled a lot. Where, for example, have you been or lived? — He wanted to learn more about the enigmatic man sitting across from him

— There were a few times when I had a place to stay for a longer period. Occasionally, I spent nights in the homes of the people I fed on. On ferries, if I needed to cross a river or another body of water. In the beginning, right after my transformation, I traveled only on horseback. — He took a sip of wine before continuing. — Where have I been? I traveled through France for a few years before. Feeling compelled, I decided to board the first ship heading north. That’s how I ended up in England. I roamed across Europe, and later, I heard about the situation in America. At first, I stayed along the Virginia coastline, but eventually, my journey led me to the northeast, and finally, Pennsylvania. Of course, that’s a very brief summary – I wouldn’t want to ramble on about it.

Seth listened carefully, not wanting to miss a single detail. His head rested on his wrist while his other hand held the glass, from which he occasionally took a sip.

— You’re also from Europe? — He asked, intrigued.

Carmen nodded.

— Yes. Isn’t that obvious? At least from my accent. 

— Honestly, you don’t look like it. I mean, I've noticed this European beauty now. A good friend of mine is also from Europe. Now that I look at it, you two look alike. Except he's from Lithuania, not France. — He chuckled lightly. — You’ve traveled a lot, I see. Europe is beautiful. Spain, Germany… I dream of visiting all those places, exploring, seeing everything with my own eyes…

— Yes, Europe is beautiful. You’re right. — He took another sip of wine before continuing. — What’s stopping you from traveling?

Seth looked down at his hand, resting loosely on the table.

— Distance, cost, language, transportation, and climate. — He sighed heavily.

— Cost? That doesn’t seem to be a problem for you. Honestly, I think you’re making excuses because you’re afraid to leave. If you really wanted to, you’d visit those places you dream of. If you were human, I’d understand why you might not go. — Now, Carmen was staring at Seth. — But you’re a vampire, and with that comes more opportunities. It would be a waste not to take advantage of it – I see nothing wrong with it.

— Maybe you’re right, maybe I am afraid. But that’s because I have no idea what the current situation in Europe is like in terms of vampires – if there are any at all – how aggressive humans might be, or any potential dangers, like wars. These days, a war can break out anywhere at any moment. If I had to choose between my current peaceful life and living in a completely different place and climate with the risk of death, I’d definitely choose my routine. — He lifted his gaze to the other vampire, squinting slightly.

— Fair enough. — He accepted Seth’s response without trying to convince him otherwise. His concerns were understandable. — Still, you said you wanted to travel with someone who would listen to you and enjoy your company. What you’re saying now doesn’t quite match what you said before. We can always blame it on the wine.

He finished his sentence and drank the rest of his glass.

— Ah… maybe it is the alcohol talking. — Seth laughed as if what he had just heard was the funniest thing ever. The vampire indeed had a low tolerance for alcohol, but to be honest, he didn’t feel tipsy. — You know, traveling with someone and traveling alone are two very different things. When you’re with someone, you have a sense of security, you don’t feel lonely, and you know you won’t die alone. — He leaned back in his chair, resting his hands on the back of his neck in a relaxed posture.

— You know, I could be your assurance that you won’t die alone. — He smiled softly to himself.

Seth certainly hadn’t expected that response. He blinked a few times before smiling sincerely at the other man.

— It would be wonderful to have such a handsome gentleman by my side on my deathbed.

— However you want to call it. — He chuckled quietly. — Besides, you’d take the opportunity to visit the places you wanted to see.

Seth grinned widely. He took a rather large sip of his wine and sighed with satisfaction.

— Who would have thought I’d ever get the chance to meet someone like you? — He suddenly remarked.

Carmen picked up the almost-empty bottle of wine and poured the remaining drops into Seth’s glass. It had been a long time since he’d had wine this good—it must have been an excellent vintage.

— Who would have thought I’d meet another vampire? People come into your life in the most unexpected moments.

While pouring wine into Seth’s glass, he looked at him.

— By the way, what year is this? Exquisite depth of flavor.

— Oh… I have no idea, Mr. Chauvet… — He laughed for no apparent reason. He lifted his glass and downed the remaining wine in one go. Satisfied, he placed the empty glass back on the table, a quiet smile playing on his lips. — It really is delicious. —  he admitted.

Carmen turned the wine bottle in his hand, checking the label for the year. There was no marking, so he assumed Seth had gotten it from a private winery.

— Do you source it from a private supplier?

Seth practically sprawled across the table.

— Yes, I get it from a good friend – the one I mentioned before. I think he owns a vineyard. He’s doing pretty well, I have to say… — He stretched his arms, and a few strands of hair slipped from his tied-up style, falling over his face. He ignored them, letting them drift into his eyes if they wished.

— You’re lucky to have such connections. — Saying this, he calmly stood from the table and walked toward the kitchen, his goal being to find another bottle of wine. On instinct, he opened the first cabinet he remembered seeing Seth use earlier. Of course – there they were. He took one out and closed the cabinet. He leaned briefly against the counter, looking from the kitchen at the slightly tipsy Seth. He chuckled quietly to himself; such a sight was rare. Returning to the table, he poured another round, filling Seth’s glass first, then his own.

Seth eyed the newly filled glass and smirked to himself.

— You have a good taste. — he remarked before attempting to sit up straight – though, truth be told, the table felt rather comfortable at the moment. He took the glass and sipped from it.

— I do. — ‘Does he have a weakness for alcohol?’ Carmen wondered as he sat across from him. Not once had he declined a drink – perhaps he was right. — Do you entertain guests often?

— Hmm… — Seth had to think about that. — Well, I don’t often have guests who come by simply for wine, like you. It’s usually clients – either picking up orders or placing new ones. I’m the one who usually goes out, attending carnivals or similar events, though I rarely leave home. Unless things get dire and I desperately need blood. Then, I go to my contacts without hesitation. — He traced a finger along the delicate rim of his glass.

— I assume that means you have good control over your vampire instincts? — Carmen, in turn, traced a fingertip around the edge of his wine glass, as if needing to keep his hands occupied.

— You mean hunger? — He clarified, though he decided to elaborate anyway, not waiting for a response. — Hunting repulses me, to be honest. I do get irritable when I’m hungry, but I can’t attack unless provoked. Certainly not for blood. Since childhood I have learned to live without the need to hunt, so after all these centuries, I’m remarkably disciplined when it comes to – let’s say – ‘vampiric instincts.’

— You were raised that way? — Carmen asked, interested.

Seth chuckled sarcastically, but left Carmen without an answer. He had known him too short to suddenly tell him about his past. He didn't want to put him off at their second meeting. And Carmen could tell that Seth had more to say but chose not to push. If he wanted to continue, he would. Carmen took out his pocket watch and glanced at it – he hadn’t realized how much time had passed since he arrived. He turned his gaze back to the slightly intoxicated Seth, whose loose strands of hair framed his face. While Carmen was looking at his watch, Seth reached out to the bottle to pour his guest another glass.

— I think it’ll be enough for tonight. — Carmen stopped him. — If I had another glass, you’d have to pick me up from off the floor. I should probably head back to my place.

— What a shame… I really enjoyed your company.

Carmen stood, leaning against the table. Moving to the door, he grabbed his coat from the hanger and swung it over his shoulders. His head turned towards Seth, who was still sitting at the table.

— Thank you for your hospitality, Monsieur Cruorem. I’ve enjoyed your company as well. — he admitted, as he nodded to Seth in goodbyes. — Farewell.

— No problem at all. If you ever need anything, you know where to find me. — he smiled slightly, as he stood up from the table to close the door behind his guest. — Take care.

After that, Carmen left the apartment and went home, leaving Seth behind him, alone. He was absolutely delighted with their meeting. He looked at the table, and more specifically at his glass, still filled with wine. His alcoholic soul made him smile against his will.

But he didn't enjoy it for long, because he still had something to do today.

He sighed and began tidying up. He washed the glasses and put away the bottles. With a steady pace, he made his way to his studio and sat at his desk. He wanted to take advantage of the moment while everything was still “fresh” in his mind – he needed to sketch, capturing every detail of Carmen’s figure and face with precision.

Hunched over in a position resembling a crooked question mark, he worked tirelessly to perfect the sketch, ensuring no detail was overlooked.

After a solid two hours of intense focus – more accurately, working on multiple sketches – he finally straightened up, satisfied. Smiling, he admired the drawings of the man as if they were the greatest achievement of his life. Once he’d had his fill of looking at them, he returned to the living room. He cracked open the nearest window, letting some fresh air into his "den." Then, he headed to the bathroom to wash up.

He spent a good hour there, indulging in his haircare and skincare routine while enjoying the warmth and comfort of the bath. But when he glanced at the clock and realized how little time remained before sunrise, he hurried to finish up – meaning, he reluctantly left the tub and changed into loose, comfortable clothing.

After stepping out of the bathroom, he shut the window and drew the curtains, ensuring not a single ray of sunlight – God forbid – would slip into the room. Stealthily, he took a couple of sips of blood before collapsing onto the couch, exhausted, and quickly falling asleep.

Chapter Text

The day after their last meeting, Carmen penned a short letter to Seth. In it, he took the opportunity to thank him properly for the wine and blood, something he hadn’t managed to do at the time. The letter was written with meticulous care, as if it were addressed to a king – his handwriting resembling cursive, yet far more ornate while still maintaining perfect readability.

This small gesture on Carmen’s part sparked a short-lived exchange of letters between the two vampires, lasting just under a week. Their correspondence was both about everything and nothing at all. Carmen recounted some of his past travels – what he had seen, his impressions, the places that left a mark on him. In his final letter, he added a short postscript: 

“P.S. Wake up early on Friday. I want to take you somewhere.” 

And that was the last message he sent before Friday arrived. That evening, as soon as the sun had set, a knock echoed against Seth’s door.

Carmen remembered their past conversation – how Seth had longed to travel but never took the first step, waiting for someone to accompany him. Carmen figured that if he didn’t take the initiative, Seth would do nothing but dream about leaving. This wouldn’t be a grand expedition, just a brief trip – two, maybe three days at most, depending on how long the journey would take. He also knew that if he had warned Seth in advance, the vampire would have surely come up with fifty different excuses not to go. Besides, the place he had in mind was peaceful and, most importantly, safe.

Seth approached the door and swung it open, his lips immediately curling into a wide smile at the sight of Carmen. He greeted him warmly.

— Ah, good evening, Mr. Chauvet! I had a feeling it was you. — He absentmindedly brushed his curls back over his shoulders. — So? Should I bring anything for this mystery destination of yours? — He remained standing in the doorway, uncertain whether Carmen intended to come inside or if he expected them to leave immediately.

— Anything you think you’ll need… for, let’s say, three days. — With that, he turned on his heel and started walking down the hallway, making his way outside. — I’ll be waiting outside.

Seth nodded and quickly retreated inside. He packed the essentials – his skincare and haircare products, a few changes of clothes, and two bottles of blood. Before leaving, he stopped by his studio and grabbed his favorite set of oil paints along with a small easel. Within minutes, he returned to Carmen, a bag slung over one shoulder and the easel tucked under his arm. As Seth stepped outside, his gaze landed on Carmen, who was already seated atop a sleek black horse, a small wagon hitched to its side. Inside the wagon, a crate of ‘wine’ bottles was carefully stored, along with the few belongings Carmen had packed for himself. He hadn’t brought much, keeping everything light and tucked away in the saddlebags. Beaming, Seth announced:

— Alright! So, where exactly are we going?

When Carmen's eyes fell on the easel in Seth’s hands, he raised a single brow, barely suppressing a laugh.

— …You’re joking.

— No, I’m not joking. As an artist, I cannot afford to let a single day pass without honing my craft.

Carmen shook his head and sighed.

— Well, put the heavier stuff in the wagon and get on behind me – unless you’d prefer to sit in the back.

Seth glanced at the wagon’s contents before carefully placing his supplies inside, ensuring nothing would be damaged during the journey. Then, he reconsidered his seating options. If he sat in the wagon, there was a very real chance his curls and outfit would get utterly ruined. That was simply unacceptable. He waited for Carmen to settle properly on the horse before climbing up behind him.

As soon as he felt Seth climb on, he gave the reins a slight flick, urging the horse forward. The city streets began to blur past them.

— You could’ve just brought a sketchbook and a pencil… but a whole easel? — He exhaled in mild amusement. — You’re lucky I brought the wagon.

He instinctively wrapped his arms around Carmen’s waist, ensuring he wouldn’t – God forbid – fall off the horse.

— And you’re lucky I didn’t bring a bigger easel. I actually considered it. — He quipped, his gaze drifting over the familiar streets as they rode on.

— Hm... Are you planning to paint landscapes?

— Ah… that too, I suppose. — He hadn’t initially planned on it, but now that Carmen mentioned it, the idea seemed worth considering. — I imagine the scenery will be worth capturing. That is… if there is any scenery at all. Because, Mr. Chauvet, you still haven’t told me where exactly we’re going.

— The mountains. — He answered simply as they finally began leaving the city behind. Reaching down, he briefly patted the horse’s neck before returning to his original posture, guiding them further into the night.

— The mountains?! — Seth asked, excitement evident in his voice. — I’ve always wanted to see the mountains with my own eyes! — A wide, almost childish grin spread across his face. Taking advantage of the moment, he squeezed Carmen tighter in an impromptu hug, unable to contain his excitement. He knew that under normal circumstances, this kind of gesture would likely earn him a slap. But now? Now, Carmen couldn’t do a thing about it – and that only made Seth more delighted.

But the moment Seth tightened his grip around him, Carmen’s entire body tensed.

— Stop it. — His voice was low, nearly a whisper, as he subtly urged the horse to pick up speed now that they had left the city behind.

— Ah... my apologies. — Seth quickly loosened his hold – at least as much as he dared, considering he wasn’t particularly keen on the idea of falling off a moving horse.

— I can’t believe you’ve never been to the mountains before.

— Yes, I’ve never been there. Is it really that hard to believe?

— For a moment, yes. — He briefly turned his head, checking the wagon behind them to make sure everything was secure. His gaze flickered toward Seth as well, ensuring he was still seated properly before shifting his focus back to the road ahead. — A few years ago, when I was traveling near these mountains – the ones we’re headed to now – I came across a small house by the lake. That’s where we’ll be staying.

What he didn’t mention, of course, was the little detail about killing the cabin’s original owner. He wasn’t in the mood for another moral lecture from Seth.

— An abandoned house? — he asked, skeptical. It didn’t sit right with him that they could just walk into someone’s home as if it were their own.

— I never said it was abandoned. — he turned his head slightly, glancing at Seth from the corner of his eye.

For a brief moment, their eyes met.

— …You killed the people living there, didn’t you, Mr. Chauvet? — His tone was serious, almost accusatory.

— They would have died one way or another. — he shrugged, completely unbothered.

— Excuse you?! — Seth’s frustration boiled over. He knew lecturing him was pointless – he had tried before, and it never got through. With a sharp sigh, he ran a hand through his hair, trying to push down the lingering irritation.

A smirk played at the edges of Carmen's lips when he noticed Seth’s exasperation.

— At least you’ll be sleeping in a house by the lake, with a beautiful view of the mountains.

— Mhm. A house where people once lived, people who were murdered by the very man I’m holding onto right now. — He could feel the guilt creeping in, pressing against his conscience. Those people – whoever they were – had lives, families, memories. And Carmen had stolen all of it away without a second thought. The thought made his stomach twist uncomfortably.

— They would’ve died in a few years anyway, I don’t see the issue. — his voice was dismissive, as if the matter was barely worth discussing. — Besides, I didn’t bring you all this way just to listen to you complain about people who are long gone. Enjoy the scenery. — his tone left no room for argument. He had no intention of spending the entire journey listening to another one of Seth’s morality debates.

Frustrated, Seth rolled his eyes. He didn’t say another word, but he did loosen his grip on Carmen even further, knowing the vampire wasn’t riding particularly fast. In his mind, he cursed Carmen a hundred different ways. Sometimes, he truly couldn’t believe how utterly ruthless vampires could be.

Silence fell between them as Carmen kept his focus on the road ahead. Occasionally, he glanced to the side, his sharp gaze shifting between the landscape and Seth. Given that they had left just after sunset, the sky was painted in a range of colors beyond just deep blue or midnight black. For a while, he simply observed as those vibrant hues slowly faded, giving way to the deep navy of the night.

Meanwhile, Seth let himself take in the view. It wasn’t anything extraordinary, not yet, but it was still something to appreciate. He watched the trees pass by, the stars gradually appearing in the sky, the gentle rise and fall of the hills. Even though he was still irritated with Carmen, he couldn’t deny that the trip itself felt… nice. That being said, the thought of staying in a house that had once belonged to murdered people unsettled him more than he cared to admit.

For a brief moment, he considered completely detaching himself from Carmen – letting go of him entirely – but the idea lasted only a few seconds before he realized it wasn’t the best idea. Instead, he shifted his grip, no longer holding him in a firm embrace but instead resting his hands lightly against his waist. He tried to ignore Carmen’s presence altogether, choosing instead to lose himself in the passing scenery, letting his thoughts drift elsewhere.

Before long, the outline of the mountains appeared in the distance, rising against the darkening sky – their destination finally in sight.

Seth leaned out and looked over the other vampire’s shoulder. His eyes seemed to light up at the mere sight of the mountains – still far away, but he already felt immense excitement. For a moment, he even forgot what he had been thinking about just a short while ago. He focused entirely on the view before him. He sighed in amazement.

— So the mountains are even more beautiful in real life than in paintings… — he said.

— Of course, no painting can truly capture the beauty of what the eye sees. And we vampires see this world even more vividly and beautifully than humans do. — Carmen also gazed at the mountainous landscape they were now heading toward. A wave of nostalgia for his past travels washed over him. On one hand, he longed to return to them, but on the other, he liked where he had settled. The fact that he had met Seth also kept him from leaving.

Seth stared at the landscape, mesmerized. He was at a loss for words. They hadn’t been traveling for that long – at least, it didn’t feel that way. And yet, all of this had been so close, right under his nose. This natural beauty, now within reach. Carmen had likely seen countless views like this, but Seth had only been able to imagine them through art and paintings he had come across. Now, he had the chance to witness it with his own eyes. He was in awe, struck by the scenery before him, the circumstances he was in, and the new experiences. A wide smile spread across his face. He forgot about the whole situation from earlier – about Carmen and his killings. He didn’t even care how his hair looked anymore. He just kept staring at the mountains, completely losing himself in the moment, shutting out all the horrors of the world.

Carmen decided to let the other vampire enjoy the views in peace and continued riding in silence. He kept his focus on the road, making sure not to take a wrong turn. From what he remembered, it was easy to get lost in these areas, and he wasn’t going to make the same mistake twice. For a moment, his thoughts drifted to Seth’s perception of him. He assumed that to Seth, he was just as much of a killer as he had been from the moment they started talking about vampire habits. Honestly, if that was the case, he wouldn’t be surprised. He didn’t try to hide it – this was simply his way of surviving. If he had asked his past self, centuries ago, whether he enjoyed feeding on humans, the answer would have been ‘no.’ Now, Carmen wasn’t sure what he would say if asked the same question. Deep down, he was probably still the little boy who couldn’t look his mother in the eyes when he had done something ‘wrong.’ Just as he said he enjoyed the power he had over humans – like a grim reaper choosing whose time had come that night. He wasn’t lying – that was how he felt now. But back then, it had been just a way to make it easier for himself to get through the centuries.

After a while, Seth ‘came back to reality’ and ‘returned to earth.’ He glanced over Carmen’s shoulder. However, despite his efforts, he couldn’t quite catch sight of his face, so he leaned back to his previous position. After a brief silence, he suddenly asked:

— Mr. Chauvet… What do vampires see in killing humans? — Uncertain of his own question, he still chose to push forward. — I’ve asked many vampires about this, and their answers have been completely different from one another. But I want to hear your opinion.

The vampire snapped out of his thoughts and glanced at Seth out of the corner of his eye.

— I used to kill to survive. Now, it happens to be my entertainment for the evening. I’m aware of how ‘immoral’ that is, as you call it. But that word is so damn subjective, so I’d rather not dwell on it.

Seth just frowned at the vampire before shifting his gaze elsewhere and mumbling something resembling ‘mhm.’ He didn’t say anything more. He couldn’t hide his disappointment in the other man. In truth, he had expected this answer, but he had sincerely hoped that Carmen would respond differently – maybe in a softer way, not so bluntly.

— What kind of answer were you expecting? — Noticing Seth’s visible disappointment, Carmen threw out the question. — I assume I’m no better than your other vampire acquaintances.

— You’re all the same. — He said coldly, with disappointment. He truly felt different. He really did feel like he didn’t belong in this society he lived in. A society where he barely fit in, where he barely managed. Sure, it was all his choice, but at the same time, Seth couldn’t ignore his habits. He never had. Despite the poor treatment from his family and peers. He clenched his hands lightly around Carmen’s clothing, careful not to grip his waist too tightly – he didn’t want the vampire to get the wrong idea.

— You sound like a human. — He scoffed, amused. He figured Seth saw him the same way all humans had ‘before him.’ A pureblood vampire with a human soul? He hadn’t met another like him, but from Seth’s stories, the others were similar to him.

Seth remained silent for a long while. ‘Like a human’ ? That had to be a joke. He had never thought he was anything close to human. At least, he never considered himself that way. After a brief moment of thought, he suddenly said in a serious tone:

— Stop the horse.

Carmen stopped the horse.

— Hm? — He turned toward Seth, frowning slightly. — If this isn’t anything serious, we’re moving on. I don’t plan on burning up in the sun.

Though, in truth, there was still plenty of time before sunrise. Even if they stopped for an hour, they would still reach their destination before dawn.

Seth only shot a cold glare at Carmen before dismounting the horse. Just moments ago, he had decided he would walk back home on foot. He didn’t feel like spending any more time with someone like Carmen. But in the end, he reluctantly decided to endure it. He walked over to the wagon and, after struggling to climb into it he settled into the least cluttered spot and lay down as comfortably as possible. He didn’t want to be near Carmen – at least not in a way that required touching him. Now, he felt disgusted by the very thought of it, even though just moments ago, he had wanted to hug him out of joy. That feeling was now long gone. He decided he would endure whatever discomfort came with sitting in the wagon for the rest of the journey. Without a word, he turned his head away from Carmen, refusing to make eye contact with him. He simply waved his hand dismissively, signaling him to keep moving.

Carmen raised an eyebrow and looked back at Seth, now lying in the wagon.

— So, you’re just going to sit there and sulk at me, huh? — He remained standing with the horse, still staring at the other vampire. He had no intention of dragging a sulking Seth along for the entire trip.

— What’s your problem? — He said icily, crossing one leg over the other and resting his hands behind his head. He closed his eyes, listening for a moment to the sounds around them. — I refuse to touch or even sit near a man who kills people ‘for fun.’ — He muttered coldly.

Carmen sighed and dismounted his horse, walking over to the wagon and leaning against it.

— My problem? — He raised his voice at first, then continued more calmly. — For too many years, I’ve seen nothing human in people. This ‘fun’ has helped me survive decades without wandering the streets chasing rats. — By that, he meant that the more he killed ‘for fun,’ the easier it was for him to look into the eyes of the corpses he fed on. — Now, get up. — He hesitated, then softened his tone. — Please, calm down and get back on the horse. — Despite his tone seeming unchanging, it returned to normal. — I won’t let your damn bad mood ruin the trip you’ve dreamed of for centuries.

Seth held Carmen’s gaze coldly for a moment before his expression softened. Carmen was… asking him for something? Did he actually care about how Seth felt? Conflicted emotions stirred in him. The vampire’s cold demeanor had suddenly shifted to something almost… apologetic. Seth was a good person, so he couldn’t help but feel a bit of sympathy for the other man. Finally, he sighed and stood up from the wagon.

— Fine, but only if you help me get out of here and back onto the horse. If I’d known your trip would take this long and in these conditions, I would’ve worn different shoes. — He gave Carmen a warm, genuine smile.

Carmen extended a hand toward the other man, steady and wordless, offering support as he helped him rise. With practiced ease, he guided him out of the wagon and assisted him onto the horse's saddle, before mounting behind him. A soft nudge with his heel signaled the steed to move. For a brief moment, Carmen glanced over his shoulder at Seth – but then, without a word, turned his eyes forward to the road ahead.

— Do you have any other shoes? — he asked, his voice loud enough to be heard over the quiet rhythm of hooves on the ground.

Seth let out a nervous laugh and instinctively grabbed hold of Carmen again, afraid he might fall.

— I don’t... I didn’t think this through. — he admitted with a sigh. – If only you had shared with me more details about this so-called trip , I might have considered packing more appropriate footwear.

— I thought so. — Carmen replied, nudging his horse to accelerate and giving him a gentle pat. — If I told you, you’d start thinking of reasons not to go.

— Well… — Seth trailed off, then chuckled. — You’re probably right. — He tilted his head, curiosity flashing in his eyes. — How long have you been riding horses? Or – maybe a better question – when did you learn to ride?

Carmen fell into a moment of contemplation, his brow furrowing slightly. It had been so long ago that the memory felt like a distant fog. He let the silence stretch before whispering, almost to himself:

— When was that...? Ah, yes. My father taught me. I must’ve been around eleven.

— Did it take you long? — Seth asked, genuinely intrigued. In truth, a faint shadow of jealousy crept into his chest. His father had never taught him anything – except, perhaps, how to mask pain with violence. No one in his family had shown him how to defend himself, how to prepare bloody meals, how to ride a horse. Everything he knew, he had learned on his own – through attempts and mistakes and too many bruises.

His expression turned distant, hollow. The memories dug into him like thorns, and without even realizing it, he clutched Carmen more tightly. It had been centuries since he’d been this physically close to someone. Carnivals, fleeting dances, meaningless touches – that was all he’d known. But this... this was different. And he didn’t know if Carmen would ever allow it again, so he wanted to take advantage of the opportunity.

Carmen’s muscles tensed slightly beneath the sudden grip – but this time, he said nothing. He turned his head slightly, just enough to see Seth out of the corner of his eye.

— A few weeks. — he answered — It took a bit of time to get the basics down. But week by week, it became easier. — he added while giving the horse another reassuring pat along its neck. — Maybe someday I’ll teach you.

Seth's eyes flashed. He ignored Carmen's brief stiffening. Maybe the man just wasn't used to physical contact. After all, he guessed the vampire hadn't shared real space with anyone in years – unless, of course, he was about to be eaten. Seth, on the other hand, was hungry for contact, and for once he was glad that Carmen hadn't objected to the closeness. 

— You practiced every day? — he asked, excitement creeping into his voice.

— Not every day. — Carmen replied with a quiet smile. — But often enough to learn quickly. As I said, it takes time. The ability to ride a horse is useful. If you are traveling – or simply need to get somewhere – it is not always possible to walk or stop a carriage. — He glanced sideways at Seth, noting every flicker of emotion that passed over his face. After pausing for a moment he added: — We’re nearly there. — as he gave the horse a gentle signal to speed up.

Chapter Text

Seth nodded silently, and the moment the horse beneath them picked up speed, the vampire instinctively tightened his grip around Carmen. At this point, he wasn’t quite sure whether riding horseback was thrilling or utterly dreadful. His only real concern, however, was his hair. Inwardly devastated, he prayed that the house would offer him a chance to carry out his painstaking hundred-step skin and hair care routine – and that the conditions would at least be decent.

— You’re awfully tense. — Carmen remarked without turning. — You’re not going to fall. — He scanned the path ahead, eyes flicking from shadow to shadow, ensuring he wouldn’t lose their way. Carmen had a feeling it would take quite some effort to get Seth back on a horse again anytime soon. — You better get used to it. — he added with a smirk. — I wouldn’t recommend riding in the cart on our way back to the city.

— Why not? It looks far more… comfortable. — Seth muttered, glancing wistfully at the wagon behind them. — At least, it seems that way.

Despite Carmen’s comments, Seth didn’t loosen his grip. He was, quite plainly, terrified that his immaculate heels might snap, his shirt might soil, or – God forbid – his hair might catch on a stray branch.

— It only seems that way. — Carmen replied curtly, tone hinting at unfortunate past experiences.

— It looks good enough to nap in. If there were a blanket, maybe. — Seth murmured, glancing back again. For some reason, a nap suddenly sounded very appealing. He sincerely hoped the journey wouldn’t drag on much longer.

— Maybe. — Carmen admitted effortlessly.

The rest of the ride passed mostly in silence as they began to climb into more mountainous terrain. It was a sign they were drawing near. After about half an hour, a small valley nestled between peaks came into view – an expanse of calm with a lake shimmering at its center. Closer still, a rustic wooden cabin emerged beside the water.

Seth’s gaze locked onto the scenery around them. He had never seen anything quite like it. The starlit sky reflected on the gentle ripples of the lake, painting the night in breathtaking serenity. He never imagined he would live to witness something so beautiful, so utterly still and awe-inspiring. Perhaps… the world wasn’t as terrible as it had always seemed to him. A rare smile bloomed across his face, and for once, he was eager to reach their destination.

Carmen, catching sight of Seth’s expression, allowed the corners of his lips to curl upward ever so slightly. He brought the horse to a halt near the cabin and dismounted smoothly. Turning, he extended a hand to help Seth down.

Seth accepted the gesture with a near-invisible nod of thanks, then stood frozen in place, wholly taken by the sight before him. His heart – though still and ancient – gave a quiet thump. For a moment, words failed him. The view was extraordinary. He’d only ever imagined landscapes like this, and now, seeing it with his own eyes… he felt the full weight of centuries spent in self-imposed stillness. Stars danced in his eyes as the wind gently tousled his hair. It was a sensation he could only describe as foreign – and uniquely precious.

Carmen left him to the moment, stepping into the cabin to light a few candles. The space was modest but warm: a stone hearth, a couch, a soft rug beneath it. After checking the bedroom, he returned outside and began unloading the wagon. Once Seth had soaked in enough of the view, Carmen stepped up beside him.

— Well? — he asked quietly. — What do you think?

Startled, Seth turned, blinking as if awakening from a dream. 

— Ah– sorry. — he laughed softly. — I lost track of time. — A wide, sincere smile followed. — It’s incredible. Peaceful. Stunning.

Carmen tilted his head slightly. 

— And to think, you were so against traveling. You almost missed all this.

Seth let out a quiet chuckle. 

— You’re right. I have to admit it. — He stood for a moment longer before remembering his manners. — Actually… — He looked back at Carmen, his voice tender: — Thank you, Mr. Chauvet, for bringing me here. This place is… truly beautiful.

— Yes, well... — he muttered. — It is beautiful. — He lifted his head toward the sky, taking in the moonlight, as if to distract from the weight of Seth’s words.

The warmth drained from Seth’s face. He no longer smiled. A soft sigh escaped his lips as reality settled back in. Of course, a few pleasant hours wouldn’t change Carmen’s guarded nature – not all at once. Not in one night.

Without another word, Seth turned sharply on his heel and walked toward the cabin, not bothering to check if Carmen followed.

Carmen lingered outside, eyes fixed on the night sky. He had always been the kind of man to pause and admire the moon, regardless of circumstance. Its shifting face, the visible craters, the mystery of it all – it had always fascinated him. He often lost nights at his telescope, watching it in silence. Eventually, he looked back toward the now-closed cabin door, and with a quiet breath, stepped after Seth into the warmth of the house.

Seth looked around the cabin. It was rather cozy and well-furnished. One could even say it looked lived-in – at least, that would’ve been the impression, were it not for the reality of what had happened within these walls – or rather, what had happened to the people who once lived here. That very fact stirred a deep sense of discomfort within him.

He sank onto the couch. He’d be lying if he said the horseback ride they’d just finished had been in any way pleasant – his legs ached terribly. Removing his heeled boots to give his feet some rest, he stretched out across the length of the sofa, resting his head on one armrest and his legs over the other. He was relieved they’d finally arrived. Part of him wondered whether Carmen had a specific purpose for this trip, or whether it was simply an escape from the city. Then his mind drifted back to the desperate tone in Carmen’s voice, pleading with him to calm down and get back on the horse. Was he worried about him? Or was he merely keeping Seth around for convenience – resources, perhaps?

A storm of questions churned in Seth’s mind, questions he didn’t dare ask. He feared Carmen’s response would be even colder than his current demeanor. With a heavy sigh, he slipped into his own thoughts.

Carmen leaned over the backrest of the couch, bracing himself with his hands as he peered down at the brooding vampire.

— Tired? —  Carmen had a hunch that Seth’s thoughts were still lingering on the fate of the former inhabitants of the cabin. He wanted to pull him out of that spiral, to help him enjoy the escape – rather than mourn a few long-dead humans.

Seth looked up at him.

— A little, but I’m not sleepy. — he replied, glancing out the window. Dawn was still a few hours away. Though his body felt leaden with fatigue from the waist down, he had no true need for sleep. — And you, Mr. Chauvet?

Carmen gave a light shrug. 

— No, I’m full of energy. I’ll likely go for a walk before dawn. Views like these aren’t easy to come by in the city. — He straightened up slightly and cast a look over his shoulder at the easel he’d recently set up inside. — Do you plan to paint soon?

Seth followed his gaze briefly, then folded his arms behind his head and crossed one leg over the other. 

— If I feel like it, yes. Maybe in half an hour… or I’ll just reach for my sketchbook and draw from here. Lying down has its charms.

Carmen simply nodded and stepped away from the couch, heading toward the table where several wine bottles – now filled with blood – rested. He hadn’t thought to bring his favorite wine glasses along. The mere idea of one of them cracking or, God forbid, getting scratched, was enough to send him into a coma. So, he made do with what he found in the kitchen: a dusty glass, which he promptly cleaned and filled halfway with blood. Leaning against the table, he took a long sip, something he’d been craving for the entirety of their journey.

Seth, catching the rich scent of blood in the air, bolted upright almost instantly. He hadn’t realized just how hungry he was – after all, he hadn’t fed in three days. His eyes flushed a deep crimson as he stared at Carmen with an eerie, unsettling smile.

— Ah… Mr. Chauvet… The blood you’re sipping has an incredibly sweet aroma… — His voice was unsteady, almost breathless with desperation. He was clearly hinting – begging, even – for Carmen to pour him a glass or two as well.

Carmen smiled faintly as he poured another.

— Of course. It’s from a young virgin. — He spoke the words casually as he filled a second glass he’d prepared in advance. He mentioned the origin of the blood on purpose, curious to see how Seth would react under hunger’s grip. Carmen had no doubt the aroma would stir something primal in the other vampire. As he finished pouring, he extended the glass toward Seth.

Seth reached for it, his hand trembling, then froze. He replayed Carmen’s words in his mind. From a young virgin.

How young? Had she even reached maturity? Did Carmen kill her – or just take a portion of her blood? Had he played with her first?

An image flashed in his mind – her lifeless body, limp and pale – and his stomach turned. He had nothing in him to vomit, yet he instinctively brought a hand to cover his mouth. He was on the verge of refusing, waiting for more information about the girl’s fate… but his instincts were screaming louder.

If he went the whole trip without a single drop, he risked spiraling into bloodlust. Losing control. Especially with Carmen casually drinking around him.

With a sharp motion, Seth snatched the glass from Carmen’s hand and drained it in one breath. Then he braced himself against the table, the same hand that had just shielded his mouth now pressed against the wood, as he tried to still the trembling in both his arms and legs. He’d never thought mere scent alone could push him this far.

Carmen’s grin widened as the glass vanished from his hand. He was just as delighted by the reaction as by Seth’s failed attempts at restraint. As the other vampire downed the blood in one gulp, he refilled the glass without a word.

Did he lie about the origin of the blood, just to provoke a reaction?

Of course he did. That was obvious.

Blood from a true virgin would’ve been far sweeter, far richer than what he’d just served.

— I see you were starving, Monsieur. — Carmen said with a smirk.

Seth was silent for a moment. He needed to process the taste of the blood he’d just consumed. Truth be told, its origin didn’t matter much to him anymore. Once he gathered himself, a faint smile tugged at his lips, and he let out a quiet chuckle. There was nothing quite like blood after days of starvation.

— Maybe just a little. — he admitted with a satisfied hum, his crimson eyes glinting softly in the light as he turned his gaze toward the other man.

Carmen set his own glass aside. He took a few deliberate, sharp steps toward the younger vampire and stopped just in front of him – close enough to study the subtle details of Seth’s irises. His eyes narrowed ever so slightly. From the side, one might’ve compared him to a curious dog – only his expression was far colder, more analytical. He’d never witnessed such a sudden shift in someone’s appearance before. Then again, he’d never had the chance to study himself in a mirror. He had no way of knowing whether his own eyes changed the same way… or whether this phenomenon was unique to Seth.

Seth met his gaze with a questioning look, a little thrown by the whole situation. He almost took a step back, suddenly aware of how little space separated them – but something held him in place. While Carmen examined his eyes, Seth found himself with the perfect opportunity to look into his.

That sharp, piercing stare… a brilliant emerald green, framed by lashes that seemed only longer with his narrowed lids. Seth had to admit – Carmen was an undeniably handsome man. His cold demeanor might not be the most inviting, but his appearance certainly drew attention – or at least, it had Seth’s.

He couldn’t help but wonder how many lovers Carmen had had. If he’d had any. But, at the end, Seth pushed those thoughts aside, reminding himself that it was none of his business.

— Is something wrong, Mr. Chauvet? — he asked calmly, not breaking eye contact.

Carmen stepped back slightly, leaning away from him as he answered.

— Do all vampires experience such a change in their eye color? — His tone had softened, the tension in his face fading into something more contemplative. Even at that distance, his eyes lingered on Seth’s. That deep, vivid red reminded him of something – of the crimson velvet that once adorned the rooms of a distant castle he’d seen as a child. Why that memory surfaced now, he wasn’t sure… but he let it drift away. He was more interested in understanding how the younger vampire’s eyes worked.

Seth was momentarily surprised by the question – it had such a simple answer. Then he remembered: Carmen had never really been around other vampires. His lips curled into a warm smile.

— I haven’t met a vampire whose eyes don’t change. The reasons vary. For me, it’s triggered by hunger – the intensity of the red reflects how starved I am, how much I crave blood. For some, the shift happens even while feeding, regardless of need. And there are those born with crimson eyes from the start. — he explained calmly. — You experienced it yourself the night I met you the moment I opened the bottle of blood, Mr. Chauvet. I could tell – not just from your unique scent, but from your eyes. That was how I knew what was really going on.

Carmen tilted his head slightly, clearly intrigued.

— Truly? — he whispered the word as if it fascinated him. He hadn’t seen his own reflection in years—had no idea if his appearance changed at all. Learning such a detail was unexpectedly riveting. — I didn’t think it would be that… noticeable.

Seth gave him a gentle smile.

— Well, there you go. — He leaned back against the table and took a sip from his glass. — Your lack of knowledge amuses me, but I’m also genuinely glad I get to be the one to explain these things to you. — he said, his voice rich with satisfaction.

— ‘Amuses’? — he echoed the word as he picked up his glass of blood. Leaning casually against the table beside Seth, he couldn’t quite grasp what about something so fundamentally inaccessible to him could be funny.

— Well, you see… it’s not every day you meet a vampire who knows absolutely nothing about vampire habits. — he said, clearly amused.

Carmen’s brow furrowed at that.

— I had to learn everything on my own. No one told me what I was, what I was supposed to do, or what these so-called ‘habits’ even are. 

— Well then, you’ve learned a lot by yourself. I’m proud of you. — he replied sincerely before taking another sip of blood. The red glow in his eyes gradually began to fade back to a neutral tone.

Carmen raised an eyebrow at the remark. He couldn’t quite tell if it was genuine or sarcastic. Either way, hearing words of approval – directed at him of all people – felt strange. He tightened his grip around the glass slightly, then finished off what little blood remained.

Seth stared down at the glass in his hand, his thoughts drifting. He tried to imagine what the beginning of Carmen’s vampiric life must’ve looked like. He didn’t know his past or his story, but one thing was certain – adjusting to this kind of existence alone had to have been hell.

— It must’ve been hard… right? — he asked, not even looking up. — And don’t give me the ‘tough guy’ act. I want the truth.

— Anyone would’ve struggled in that situation. — he replied simply. — But I had to act quickly. I didn’t have time to sit around worrying. — He had no intention of making himself out to be some tragic victim of fate. What happened, happened – he just moved on.

Seth glanced at him sideways. Carmen was always so cold, so emotionally distant. He couldn’t help but wonder if there was a reason behind it.

— Have you always been like this? — he asked, then clarified: — I mean… this cold. Detached. Defeated.

Carmen poured more blood into his glass, filling it halfway before taking another drink. Could he say he’d always been this way? He wasn’t sure. Time had a way of changing people – situations even more so. Maybe the endless repetition of human cruelty, or the countless lives he’d taken over the years, had made him into something harder, darker. The sudden need to strip away his humanity just to survive in a new body, in a new world – it left its mark.

— I don’t think so. I’m not even sure anymore. — Carmen said quietly. — Maybe time changed me.

Seth thought: “ So… he used to be kind? ”

He gave a small nod, signaling that he understood. He didn’t ask anything else, even though there were still so many questions swimming in his mind. Instead, he finished the last of his blood, set the glass by the sink, and walked over to his bag.

From it, he pulled out a sketchbook and a pencil. He made his way to the couch and laid down like he had before. Brushing his hair away from his face, he flipped through the pages, looking for a blank one. Once he found it, he began sketching – Carmen’s face, just as he’d seen it moments ago, close-up, while the details were still fresh in his memory.

He figured Carmen might be tired after their journey and didn’t want to push the conversation to a place that could become uncomfortable.

Carmen, meanwhile, stepped out of the cabin. He had planned to go for a walk – and now seemed like the perfect time.

He walked along the edge of the lake, observing the nature surrounding him. As he wandered, his mind returned to the question Seth had asked earlier. He sifted through memories of his past, wondering if there had been any ‘defining’ moments that had shaped him this way. Maybe, in truth, it wasn’t just events – but time itself – that had changed him.

* * *

After a while, once Seth was satisfied with the progress on his sketch, Seth set the sketchbook aside and stood up. He walked back over to his bag and pulled out a pair of loose black trousers and the items for his usual skincare and haircare routine. Taking advantage of the solitude, he headed to the small bathroom and washed up thoroughly, including his hair. Once done, he cracked the door open slightly to let the steam out and began his routine at the sink – applying various ointments, masks, gels, and creams.

When Carmen returned from his walk, he took off his coat and tossed it over the back of a nearby chair. His brow furrowed as he noticed the lingering steam wafting from the bathroom, like someone had recently taken a long, hot shower. The scent in the air was intense – overpowering even, to a vampire like him. Dozens of grooming products, their chemical fragrances stinging his nostrils. He unbuttoned the top of his shirt – it was stiflingly warm inside the small cabin, and exhaustion from the long night was settling in. He needed a moment to breathe. Opening a window to air out the space, he made his way toward the bathroom. Since the door was already ajar, he leaned casually against the frame, waiting for the other vampire to notice him.

Wet, long curls clung to Seth’s pale, bare shoulders, and he wore nothing but the black pants. He was in the middle of rubbing cream into his hands when he caught Carmen’s scent among the medley of products. Without pausing, he turned his head slightly toward him.

— You’re back. — he said softly, then returned to what he was doing. — How was it outside? 

Carmen's gaze swept down the other vampire’s body, skeptical. He couldn’t imagine how anyone could need that many products for just their hair. Of course, he had some idea that grooming took time – but this much?

— Peaceful. Dawn’s coming soon. I’d like this place to be aired out before we sleep. I don’t exactly dream of suffocating on your chemical fumes. — he said, pushing off the doorframe and walking to the bedroom to open the window there as well.

Seth merely murmured an acknowledging sound as he quickly wrapped up the rest of his routine. He left the hair mask in, gathered all his tools, and exited the bathroom. After packing them away, he sprawled out on the couch. The bath had made him drowsy – a good sign. He picked up the sketchbook again and returned to his drawing of that ever-handsome man he’d been spending time with.

Once the cabin had aired out properly, Carmen closed each window one by one. Then came his usual nightly routine of covering the windows completely. He double-checked each one – he wasn’t about to risk going up in flames due to carelessness. He gave the main room a final glance, as if sensing he might have forgotten something – but there was nothing. He walked over to the couch and rested one hand on it, looking down at the other vampire.

— You’ll be sleeping on the couch, I assume?

— Oh… is there a bed option? — he asked, not lifting his eyes from the increasingly detailed sketch. He crossed one leg over the other.

Carmen frowned when he noticed Seth wasn’t even looking at him while being spoken to. He had been raised to always look at someone during a conversation. He didn’t need full eye contact – but he also didn’t want to feel like he was talking to a wall.

— Yes, there is a bed option.

— Would it bother you if I took the bed? — he asked, glancing up at Carmen for only a second or two before going right back to sketching. It was nearly finished. Nearly . And nearly made all the difference.

— You have no idea. — he muttered, still looking down at the vampire, who remained buried in his sketchbook – without the decency to look at him for more than a fleeting moment.

— Oh, come on. It’s comfortable. — he mumbled under his breath, his focus entirely absorbed in the drawing he was bringing to life.

— Maybe for you . I usually sleep in a coffin, so a regular bed doesn’t exactly do it for me – let alone a couch. —  He sighed under his breath, clearly displeased. If Seth found the couch so comfortable, Carmen saw no issue letting him have it – he’d take the bed.

Seth stayed quiet for a moment, trying to focus on his sketch. Eventually, he spoke:

— It’s beneath an aristocrat to sleep in such miserable conditions. —  he flipped the sketchbook upside down to add something more.

— There’s no one here to judge whether it’s beneath you or not. — he replied, still leaning on the couch.

— You are here. — he answered sharply, brushing a few damp strands of hair behind his ear.

Carmen let out a dry chuckle.

— You flatter me. But right now, I couldn’t care less whether some aristocrat sleeps on the couch or not. What matters is that he sleeps at all.

— Well, I care. — he replied curtly, his attention already returning to his drawing.

— You’ll be sleeping on the couch tonight. If Your Majesty has no objections, we can switch tomorrow. —

He attempted a compromise, too drained to keep arguing over sleeping arrangements. He could negotiate the rest another time.

— Mhm, sounds good. — Seth agreed absentmindedly, completely absorbed in his work and not even realizing what he’d just committed to. 

— Excellent. — He smirked to himself and walked off toward the bedroom. Before stepping inside, he turned back toward Seth. — When you’re ready to lie down, blow out the candles on the table. — Closing the door behind him, he removed his shirt, folded it neatly, and set it aside. He double-checked the curtains to make sure the window was fully covered. Only once he was absolutely confident in the room’s safety did he lie down. Hands behind his head, he stared at the ceiling in silence.

Seth lingered over his sketch a while longer before Carmen’s words finally caught up to him. Confused, he mentally retraced the conversation. Then it hit him. He stood abruptly and stormed into the bedroom.

— Let’s talk this over, alright? — his voice carried a note of desperation. The idea of sleeping on a couch in a place where he didn’t feel at ease was less than ideal.

He shifted his gaze to Seth, unmoving from his relaxed position on the bed. He didn’t look like he planned to get up anytime soon.

— What’s there to talk about? I thought we had it settled. — he smirked faintly.

— Let me have the bed tonight. Just this first night. I don’t feel comfortable here. Blood, money – whatever you want in return, I’ll give it. Just don’t make me sleep on that couch. — in the end, he went with a simple plea. He had nothing better to bargain with.

— There’s no way. We agreed – I get the bed tonight, you get it tomorrow. End of discussion. Now go, I’m tired. — His voice was firm, resolute. No room left for negotiation.

Seth muttered something under his breath – likely unflattering – then threw out a quick:

— Fine. Good night. 

With a curt turn, he left the room and made his way back to the main room, dragging his feet just a little as he headed for the couch, grumbling inwardly at the injustice of it all.

Carmen stretched out on the bed, turning from side to side, trying to find a comfortable position. In his coffin, all he had to do was lie down, close his eyes, and it would instantly be the best sleep of his life. But this bed… Well, it was just for tonight and the couch for the next – then he could finally return to his good old coffin.

He found himself wondering what Seth was doing alone in the other room. Had he gone to sleep already? Was he still busy with something? Still working on that ever-so-important sketch? The answers remained a mystery.

It wasn’t until about fifteen minutes of staring up at the ceiling that he finally drifted off to sleep.

* * *

    A ball, a huge carnival. Everywhere you could look, there were multi-coloured decorations, floral ornaments filling the big ballroom. It was full of people in elegant costumes. Beautiful ladies in extensive floral dresses, turning and waving with the rhythm of their dance moves as they do the Merchandise Dance. Their hats decorated with flowers as well as huge feathers that protrude above the crowd, rotating around the room to the rhythm of the music played in the background by the orchestra. 

    Among this crowd, Carmen danced along with another person.  His wavy blonde hair was tied up in a loose ponytail that fell down his back, leaping with every turn. He and the others danced to the rhythm of the music, changing the pair every now and then, however still returning to his original one at the end of the lap. 

   After a while, the orchestra, which was playing in the background started to play out of tune, creating a terribly chaotic and yet staying in a good tone melody. Thus exchanging in the dance from person to person and then returning to their original pair, his partner seemed to get paler as well as thinner with each “lap”.

    The colours slowly disappeared from their faces. After another lap, Carmen held what looked like a living corpse, dancing with it as it was something ordinary. The music with every step was playing a higher and higher note, sounding almost disturbing, chaotic and yet still at the same time well-matched. With a blink of an eye, they were already at the last lap, when the finale of the song was rushing them to end the dance. Carmen embraced the decomposed body at its finest stage, ‘handed over’ by another pair during the exchange. It was still dressed in an elegant costume, covering the already exposed entrails, and bones torn from the muscles and skin. 

    The second he took the stone-cold hand of his partner, he woke up, taking a sharp breath. His eyes looking around nervously, his heart felt like it was about to burst out of his chest any moment. It was only after a while, that it dawned on him – it was just a nasty dream. His eyes returned to the same spot on the ceiling, which he had been piercing through with his stare, before falling asleep. He felt drops of cold sweat running down his temple and some strands of his hair sticking to his forehead. He felt disgusting. He wished he could remove any sensation from his body, erase every thought from his mind and just be for a moment, without everything. Just be.

    The vampire got up and quietly made his way to the bathroom. Once inside, he leaned over the sink and splashed cold water onto his face, trying to shake off the remnants of a nightmare that had felt all too real – far too real for his frayed nerves.

    While he was at it, he also ran water through the damp strands of hair stuck to his forehead with sweat, then combed them back with his fingers.

    He looked into the mirror – only to be met with nothing. He stood there for a good minute, staring at the void, until he snapped out of it and rubbed his temples with his fingers.

    Then, he returned to the bed, lying down again with a heavy sense of dread that the dream might come back.

    Reluctantly, but too exhausted to fight it, he drifted off to sleep once more, no longer caring about the slight discomfort of the bed.