welcome to the Manor

"are you okay?”

[dark lowers himself in front of enzo slowly, taking in his appearance. he is no longer as worried about enzo as he has once been, having nursed enzo back to health frequently in the time he has gotten used to enzo’s lifestyle. however, his tone is still careful as he asked,]

Enzo shakes his head, now mildly confused. He decides to look down at his leg, his eyebrows raising as he simply hums in acknowledgement of the wound. A little over half the blade is stuck in his leg and it's uncomfortable to move.

[dark gives enzo his reserved soft smile, seeking to put enzo in an easy mood, although he doubts enzo will be prone to panic in his disoriented state]

The amount of blood he's lost actually starts to effect Enzo now, a wave of dizziness hitting him all at once and he has to blink a few times to see somewhat straight again.

[dark watches enzo, fondly and carefully]

Enzo thinks about the suggestion for a moment, glancing between his blood-soaked thigh and Dark. Then he nods.

[dark places a small kiss to enzo’s forehead] “Of course, darling.”

Enzo barely flinches as Dark pulls the knife out, the only thing eliciting any reaction from him being the speed at which it's removed.

[dark places the knife to the side carefully, intending to collect it afterwards, intending to hunt down its owners]

[dark catches sight of enzo’s glazed expression, and his concern is expressed in the slight pause in his actions. he is not sure if enzo ought to be loosing consciousness, but he is certain to ensure enzo will not be in danger from his wounds]

“Talk to me, darling.”

He nods slowly, his eyes closing once more. He's pale, very pale, almost concerningly pale. He's also colder than usual, his heartbeat considerably slower than usual as well.

[dark runs his thumb absentmindedly on enzo’s cheek, contemplating taking enzo back to the manor, where he can keep an eye on enzo. he does not want to let enzo out of sight. he will always be able to watch over enzo in the manor. he will be able to ensure enzo’s life force does not fade]

Enzo simply nods again, almost entirely unconscious now, forcing himself to stay awake just a little longer. He leans against Dark's hand.

[dark lets enzo nuzzle into his hand for a moment before withdrawing, noting enzo’s statement]

Enzo just about registers that he's been moved, slumping against Dark when he picks him up. It takes him a moment to even register the question but when he does, his head barely moves as he nods.

[dark picks up enzo’s answer]

[dark sits by enzo’s side, tucked into his bed, watching over him as he sleeps. there is warmth from the burning fireplace in the room that has not been there before]

[dark checks on enzo periodically throughout the night, careful with his powers, reluctant to touch enzo with his eternally cold hands. he does not let enzo cross over into any zone of endangerment with his life force]

After nearly 14 hours, Enzo wakes up, eyes just barely opening as he shifts from his previous position in bed. He doesn't seem to realise where he is yet, nor will he for a while.

[dark appears by enzo’s side, settling close to him. the fire burns throughout the night, kept alive by dark, now casting him into slight shadow]

Enzo gives him a fond smile, reaching over to hold his hand. He's glad that Dark's there — wherever he is feels much safer now.

[dark hesitates an imperceptible moment before returning the hold on enzo’s hand. he only smiles in response to enzo’s thanks; he has no need of it, but he will allow enzo to express his gratitude]

Enzo's tempted try to drag Dark into his arms, though he's still recovering; that would take a lot of energy and would probably result in him being unable to do anything else. But he does want Dark closer to him.

“You can stay here,” [dark offers, almost absently tracing circles onto the back of enzo’s hand with his thumb] “As long as you require to heal, darling.”

Enzo nods in acknowledgement, smile growing ever so slightly. "Thank you."

(Slash) @murderinthemaking

It’s another hired hit, cheap enough that he only has to kill the guy. Following him into an office building, and easily pinning him to the wall and pushing the knife between his ribs. Not close enough to the heart, but it should at least pierce through the lungs.

[dark simply glances down at the wound in his chest, and the rapidly staining shirt over it. he has quite forgotten how much one bleeds from an open wound, and is vaguely intrigued be the reminder]

The lack of a scream is unnerving, and the smile is something he tries to ignore. His victim hasn’t even faltered, just watching the blood pour from the wound. There’s not even an attempt to stop the bleeding, so Murdock tries to relax.

[dark’s interest is caught by the indication that he is a paid job. he does not think he has been in that reality long enough to be noticed by anyone, let alone marked a target. he is less concerned than irritated, now having to track down a new troublemaker]

His back was turned for a few seconds, checking to make sure that no one had followed them. At the sound of something moving, and the lack of knife in his hand, Murdock turns in shock. Trying to convince himself it’s just another episode, and he’s seeing things again.

“I’m afraid not, little one,” [says dark, approaching murdock. he does not bother suppressing a little smile, wondering what reactions he can pull out of murdock, wondering how he will figure out the way murdock works…]

While it’s annoying Dark has his knife, Murdock has another five strapped to his body. Pulling one out from his thigh to defend himself with. A little bit of panic hits him when he notices the lack of blood or a wound. All that means is that he’ll have to work a bit harder.

[dark does not falter in his steps as he approaches murdock, showing no acknowledgement of the new knife murdock has pulled out. he ignores as well murdock’s protests]

“What of him? He hired a hitman, what’s he going to do when I don’t kill you, call the cops?” As Dark steps towards him, he keeps trying to see where the wound was. There had been a distortion of sorts around him, but nothing he can say that could’ve taken away the bleeding.

[dark allows him an amused smile. a condescending acknowledgment of a child’s tricks]

“That’s all? Alright, your funeral I suppose. But don’t get a fucking step closer. Give me my knife, and we can be on our way. How does that sound?” While he does his best to sound genuine, Murdock is ready to bolt out of there in a heartbeat. Besides, what harm could Dark actually do?

[dark does not believe murdock either way, jumpy little fawn that he is. he also does not believe that murdock is aware of the gravity of his situation. he will need little encouragement to remind murdock of that]

“Oh fuck you, you little bastard! That knife is more important than you’ll ever be! I’ll take you to him now, but I’ll be carrying you in a god damn body bag.” Spinning his knife a few more times, Murdock moves to pin Dark to the nearest wall. Knife ready to start slicing over whatever flesh he can find.

[dark is done humouring murdock. he has murdock shoved up against the wall before the human can register the change, his entire body paralysed, pinned in place by invisible forces he will not be able to see. the knife in murdock’s hand will be rendered useless and obsolete]

“Hey-“ Murdocks voice disappears as he’s shoved against the wall, almost growling as he finds himself unable to move despite nothing physically keeping him there. As the knife is placed against his neck, he tries to spit at Dark. Finding his mouth suddenly dry, he bares his teeth instead.

[dark only continues to smile at murdock lashing out like the cornered animal that he is]

“You just want to meet the contractor? Done and dusted. I hate doing hit work anyways, I’m only in that for the money. I prefer my personal work, and I don’t think you fit my usual.”

“Yes.” [but dark doesn’t move, simply stares at murdock silently, contemplatively, for a moment]

As soon as he’s released, Murdock makes a beeline to try and grab his knife. “I’m meant to be meeting him in twenty minutes for lunch and for proof. Don’t know why he wanted you dead, just know he paid well enough.”

[dark merely watches murdock, seeming to be entertained by his mannerisms. almost as though he is aware of murdock’s thoughts, and find them amusing]

“Alright. Fine. Don’t try anything, or I’m finishing the contract.” He marches out of the office at a quick pace, silently hoping that he loses Dark on the way through the building. The restaurant he was supposed to meet at is only a short walk, and he keeps checking over his shoulder for a sign of him following.

[dark does not follow him out of the office, watching murdock march out. however, murdock is always able to catch a glimpse of him among the crowd whenever he looks over his shoulders. to enforce his point, dark sends murdock a message]

Just outside the restaurant, he hears the voice in his head. That’s something very new, not like his other delusions. Slowly turning to try and spot Dark in the crowds, he whispers. “What are you?”

“Not human, clearly.”

[dark drops into the seat the contractor just evacuated, across murdock. he notes the blood on murdock’s hand, and his distracted appearance. mostly for his own amusement, he tells murdock,]

Murdock blinks a few times, trying to register how Dark just started to exist in that chair. Wiping the blood off of his hand, he tries not to appear so horrified.

[dark is watching murdock with that peculiar gaze again. he wonders what he might do with murdock. he liked the little human. Perhaps even enough to have an interest in his meddlings]

“Like it wouldn’t be the first time. I’ll handle him fine, and beat you to your kill. So unfortunate for you.” Taking another bite of his pasta, he grins his usual devilish grin. A gold tooth that’s cracking apart shown in his smile.

[dark doubts murdock, or anyone, for that matter, will be finding their contractor again in a short while. dark thinks he might even leave the human’s body in his reality, not bothering with its state]

“We best not. I’d hate to actually have to kill you. You seem too pesky a challenge.” Murdock pushes his plate to the side, trying to avoid the eyes of anyone in the restaurant. There’s not money to cover dinner in his pocket, so it’ll have to be a mad dash to the door.

“You did try to kill me, little one,” [says dark quietly, though without any real heat. nothing in his posture speaks of threat or aggression, but his eyes are, as usual, naturally unnerving to the average person; the only possible sign of his being supernatural] “I know when you’re scared. When you work so hard to survive in your bleak conditions.”

“I try to kill a lot of people. I usually succeed in most, so congratulations on being an outlier.” A rock has found its way to comfortably rest in his stomach, shifting as he tries to break eye contact with Dark. Whatever he is, it’s plainly not human. Perhaps Murdock could run, never get caught by the beast.

[dark does not comment on that, but the look he gives murdock conveys enough: he doubts either of them believe in what murdock has claimed]

Face draining of blood, he grips tightly onto the cutlery. A terrible weapon, but necessary in case Dark decides to lunge for him. While the crowd in the streets could protect him for a bit, eventually it would clear out entirely.

“I have given you your decency — more than you deserve, especially after you tried to kill me. I doubt that was very decent of you.”

“I have decency when I kill. I aimed for a stab to the heart, and you would’ve died within minutes. Some bastards take four or five to kill. Really, it was mercy. And it’s not like I wanted to, but I was going to be paid decent money. Thanks to you, I’m short of three grand.”

“All the money in the world wouldn’t make a difference to your penury if you were dead,” [dark reminds murdock pleasantly, a hint of threat underlying. he’d so far not made mention of murdock’s obvious jitteriness in the diner]

“I value it more, but you need money for a decent life. I’d like to afford an exterminator for my house so I can live without the fear of dying of some rat borne disease.” Letting out a huff, Murdock needs to keep up his apperance. Collected entirely, even as his knee begins to shake under the table. Surely, this is all madness. A beast of some sorts his mind created out of guilt. Someone who could never die, and followed him wherever; a perfect nightmare.

[dark smiles, inwardly bemused. here is someone who has already created and casted him as role of the omnipotent monster; a prey who built and crawled into his own cage]

(Slash) @murderinthemaking

It’s another hired hit, cheap enough that he only has to kill the guy. Following him into an office building, and easily pinning him to the wall and pushing the knife between his ribs. Not close enough to the heart, but it should at least pierce through the lungs.

[dark simply glances down at the wound in his chest, and the rapidly staining shirt over it. he has quite forgotten how much one bleeds from an open wound, and is vaguely intrigued be the reminder]

The lack of a scream is unnerving, and the smile is something he tries to ignore. His victim hasn’t even faltered, just watching the blood pour from the wound. There’s not even an attempt to stop the bleeding, so Murdock tries to relax.

[dark’s interest is caught by the indication that he is a paid job. he does not think he has been in that reality long enough to be noticed by anyone, let alone marked a target. he is less concerned than irritated, now having to track down a new troublemaker]

His back was turned for a few seconds, checking to make sure that no one had followed them. At the sound of something moving, and the lack of knife in his hand, Murdock turns in shock. Trying to convince himself it’s just another episode, and he’s seeing things again.

“I’m afraid not, little one,” [says dark, approaching murdock. he does not bother suppressing a little smile, wondering what reactions he can pull out of murdock, wondering how he will figure out the way murdock works…]

While it’s annoying Dark has his knife, Murdock has another five strapped to his body. Pulling one out from his thigh to defend himself with. A little bit of panic hits him when he notices the lack of blood or a wound. All that means is that he’ll have to work a bit harder.

[dark does not falter in his steps as he approaches murdock, showing no acknowledgement of the new knife murdock has pulled out. he ignores as well murdock’s protests]

“What of him? He hired a hitman, what’s he going to do when I don’t kill you, call the cops?” As Dark steps towards him, he keeps trying to see where the wound was. There had been a distortion of sorts around him, but nothing he can say that could’ve taken away the bleeding.

[dark allows him an amused smile. a condescending acknowledgment of a child’s tricks]

“That’s all? Alright, your funeral I suppose. But don’t get a fucking step closer. Give me my knife, and we can be on our way. How does that sound?” While he does his best to sound genuine, Murdock is ready to bolt out of there in a heartbeat. Besides, what harm could Dark actually do?

[dark does not believe murdock either way, jumpy little fawn that he is. he also does not believe that murdock is aware of the gravity of his situation. he will need little encouragement to remind murdock of that]

“Oh fuck you, you little bastard! That knife is more important than you’ll ever be! I’ll take you to him now, but I’ll be carrying you in a god damn body bag.” Spinning his knife a few more times, Murdock moves to pin Dark to the nearest wall. Knife ready to start slicing over whatever flesh he can find.

[dark is done humouring murdock. he has murdock shoved up against the wall before the human can register the change, his entire body paralysed, pinned in place by invisible forces he will not be able to see. the knife in murdock’s hand will be rendered useless and obsolete]

“Hey-“ Murdocks voice disappears as he’s shoved against the wall, almost growling as he finds himself unable to move despite nothing physically keeping him there. As the knife is placed against his neck, he tries to spit at Dark. Finding his mouth suddenly dry, he bares his teeth instead.

[dark only continues to smile at murdock lashing out like the cornered animal that he is]

“You just want to meet the contractor? Done and dusted. I hate doing hit work anyways, I’m only in that for the money. I prefer my personal work, and I don’t think you fit my usual.”

“Yes.” [but dark doesn’t move, simply stares at murdock silently, contemplatively, for a moment]

As soon as he’s released, Murdock makes a beeline to try and grab his knife. “I’m meant to be meeting him in twenty minutes for lunch and for proof. Don’t know why he wanted you dead, just know he paid well enough.”

[dark merely watches murdock, seeming to be entertained by his mannerisms. almost as though he is aware of murdock’s thoughts, and find them amusing]

“Alright. Fine. Don’t try anything, or I’m finishing the contract.” He marches out of the office at a quick pace, silently hoping that he loses Dark on the way through the building. The restaurant he was supposed to meet at is only a short walk, and he keeps checking over his shoulder for a sign of him following.

[dark does not follow him out of the office, watching murdock march out. however, murdock is always able to catch a glimpse of him among the crowd whenever he looks over his shoulders. to enforce his point, dark sends murdock a message]

Just outside the restaurant, he hears the voice in his head. That’s something very new, not like his other delusions. Slowly turning to try and spot Dark in the crowds, he whispers. “What are you?”

“Not human, clearly.”

[dark drops into the seat the contractor just evacuated, across murdock. he notes the blood on murdock’s hand, and his distracted appearance. mostly for his own amusement, he tells murdock,]

Murdock blinks a few times, trying to register how Dark just started to exist in that chair. Wiping the blood off of his hand, he tries not to appear so horrified.

[dark is watching murdock with that peculiar gaze again. he wonders what he might do with murdock. he liked the little human. Perhaps even enough to have an interest in his meddlings]

“Like it wouldn’t be the first time. I’ll handle him fine, and beat you to your kill. So unfortunate for you.” Taking another bite of his pasta, he grins his usual devilish grin. A gold tooth that’s cracking apart shown in his smile.

[dark doubts murdock, or anyone, for that matter, will be finding their contractor again in a short while. dark thinks he might even leave the human’s body in his reality, not bothering with its state]

“We best not. I’d hate to actually have to kill you. You seem too pesky a challenge.” Murdock pushes his plate to the side, trying to avoid the eyes of anyone in the restaurant. There’s not money to cover dinner in his pocket, so it’ll have to be a mad dash to the door.

“You did try to kill me, little one,” [says dark quietly, though without any real heat. nothing in his posture speaks of threat or aggression, but his eyes are, as usual, naturally unnerving to the average person; the only possible sign of his being supernatural] “I know when you’re scared. When you work so hard to survive in your bleak conditions.”

“I try to kill a lot of people. I usually succeed in most, so congratulations on being an outlier.” A rock has found its way to comfortably rest in his stomach, shifting as he tries to break eye contact with Dark. Whatever he is, it’s plainly not human. Perhaps Murdock could run, never get caught by the beast.

[dark does not comment on that, but the look he gives murdock conveys enough: he doubts either of them believe in what murdock has claimed]

Face draining of blood, he grips tightly onto the cutlery. A terrible weapon, but necessary in case Dark decides to lunge for him. While the crowd in the streets could protect him for a bit, eventually it would clear out entirely.

“I have given you your decency — more than you deserve, especially after you tried to kill me. I doubt that was very decent of you.”

“I have decency when I kill. I aimed for a stab to the heart, and you would’ve died within minutes. Some bastards take four or five to kill. Really, it was mercy. And it’s not like I wanted to, but I was going to be paid decent money. Thanks to you, I’m short of three grand.”

“All the money in the world wouldn’t make a difference to your penury if you were dead,” [dark reminds murdock pleasantly, a hint of threat underlying. he’d so far not made mention of murdock’s obvious jitteriness in the diner]

"are you okay?”

[dark lowers himself in front of enzo slowly, taking in his appearance. he is no longer as worried about enzo as he has once been, having nursed enzo back to health frequently in the time he has gotten used to enzo’s lifestyle. however, his tone is still careful as he asked,]

Enzo shakes his head, now mildly confused. He decides to look down at his leg, his eyebrows raising as he simply hums in acknowledgement of the wound. A little over half the blade is stuck in his leg and it's uncomfortable to move.

[dark gives enzo his reserved soft smile, seeking to put enzo in an easy mood, although he doubts enzo will be prone to panic in his disoriented state]

The amount of blood he's lost actually starts to effect Enzo now, a wave of dizziness hitting him all at once and he has to blink a few times to see somewhat straight again.

[dark watches enzo, fondly and carefully]

Enzo thinks about the suggestion for a moment, glancing between his blood-soaked thigh and Dark. Then he nods.

[dark places a small kiss to enzo’s forehead] “Of course, darling.”

Enzo barely flinches as Dark pulls the knife out, the only thing eliciting any reaction from him being the speed at which it's removed.

[dark places the knife to the side carefully, intending to collect it afterwards, intending to hunt down its owners]

[dark catches sight of enzo’s glazed expression, and his concern is expressed in the slight pause in his actions. he is not sure if enzo ought to be loosing consciousness, but he is certain to ensure enzo will not be in danger from his wounds]

“Talk to me, darling.”

He nods slowly, his eyes closing once more. He's pale, very pale, almost concerningly pale. He's also colder than usual, his heartbeat considerably slower than usual as well.

[dark runs his thumb absentmindedly on enzo’s cheek, contemplating taking enzo back to the manor, where he can keep an eye on enzo. he does not want to let enzo out of sight. he will always be able to watch over enzo in the manor. he will be able to ensure enzo’s life force does not fade]

Enzo simply nods again, almost entirely unconscious now, forcing himself to stay awake just a little longer. He leans against Dark's hand.

[dark lets enzo nuzzle into his hand for a moment before withdrawing, noting enzo’s statement]

Enzo just about registers that he's been moved, slumping against Dark when he picks him up. It takes him a moment to even register the question but when he does, his head barely moves as he nods.

[dark picks up enzo’s answer]

[dark sits by enzo’s side, tucked into his bed, watching over him as he sleeps. there is warmth from the burning fireplace in the room that has not been there before]

[dark checks on enzo periodically throughout the night, careful with his powers, reluctant to touch enzo with his eternally cold hands. he does not let enzo cross over into any zone of endangerment with his life force]

After nearly 14 hours, Enzo wakes up, eyes just barely opening as he shifts from his previous position in bed. He doesn't seem to realise where he is yet, nor will he for a while.

[dark appears by enzo’s side, settling close to him. the fire burns throughout the night, kept alive by dark, now casting him into slight shadow]

Enzo gives him a fond smile, reaching over to hold his hand. He's glad that Dark's there — wherever he is feels much safer now.

[dark hesitates an imperceptible moment before returning the hold on enzo’s hand. he only smiles in response to enzo’s thanks; he has no need of it, but he will allow enzo to express his gratitude]

Enzo's tempted try to drag Dark into his arms, though he's still recovering; that would take a lot of energy and would probably result in him being unable to do anything else. But he does want Dark closer to him.

“You can stay here,” [dark offers, almost absently tracing circles onto the back of enzo’s hand with his thumb] “As long as you require to heal, darling.”

(Slash) @murderinthemaking

It’s another hired hit, cheap enough that he only has to kill the guy. Following him into an office building, and easily pinning him to the wall and pushing the knife between his ribs. Not close enough to the heart, but it should at least pierce through the lungs.

[dark simply glances down at the wound in his chest, and the rapidly staining shirt over it. he has quite forgotten how much one bleeds from an open wound, and is vaguely intrigued be the reminder]

The lack of a scream is unnerving, and the smile is something he tries to ignore. His victim hasn’t even faltered, just watching the blood pour from the wound. There’s not even an attempt to stop the bleeding, so Murdock tries to relax.

[dark’s interest is caught by the indication that he is a paid job. he does not think he has been in that reality long enough to be noticed by anyone, let alone marked a target. he is less concerned than irritated, now having to track down a new troublemaker]

His back was turned for a few seconds, checking to make sure that no one had followed them. At the sound of something moving, and the lack of knife in his hand, Murdock turns in shock. Trying to convince himself it’s just another episode, and he’s seeing things again.

“I’m afraid not, little one,” [says dark, approaching murdock. he does not bother suppressing a little smile, wondering what reactions he can pull out of murdock, wondering how he will figure out the way murdock works…]

While it’s annoying Dark has his knife, Murdock has another five strapped to his body. Pulling one out from his thigh to defend himself with. A little bit of panic hits him when he notices the lack of blood or a wound. All that means is that he’ll have to work a bit harder.

[dark does not falter in his steps as he approaches murdock, showing no acknowledgement of the new knife murdock has pulled out. he ignores as well murdock’s protests]

“What of him? He hired a hitman, what’s he going to do when I don’t kill you, call the cops?” As Dark steps towards him, he keeps trying to see where the wound was. There had been a distortion of sorts around him, but nothing he can say that could’ve taken away the bleeding.

[dark allows him an amused smile. a condescending acknowledgment of a child’s tricks]

“That’s all? Alright, your funeral I suppose. But don’t get a fucking step closer. Give me my knife, and we can be on our way. How does that sound?” While he does his best to sound genuine, Murdock is ready to bolt out of there in a heartbeat. Besides, what harm could Dark actually do?

[dark does not believe murdock either way, jumpy little fawn that he is. he also does not believe that murdock is aware of the gravity of his situation. he will need little encouragement to remind murdock of that]

“Oh fuck you, you little bastard! That knife is more important than you’ll ever be! I’ll take you to him now, but I’ll be carrying you in a god damn body bag.” Spinning his knife a few more times, Murdock moves to pin Dark to the nearest wall. Knife ready to start slicing over whatever flesh he can find.

[dark is done humouring murdock. he has murdock shoved up against the wall before the human can register the change, his entire body paralysed, pinned in place by invisible forces he will not be able to see. the knife in murdock’s hand will be rendered useless and obsolete]

“Hey-“ Murdocks voice disappears as he’s shoved against the wall, almost growling as he finds himself unable to move despite nothing physically keeping him there. As the knife is placed against his neck, he tries to spit at Dark. Finding his mouth suddenly dry, he bares his teeth instead.

[dark only continues to smile at murdock lashing out like the cornered animal that he is]

“You just want to meet the contractor? Done and dusted. I hate doing hit work anyways, I’m only in that for the money. I prefer my personal work, and I don’t think you fit my usual.”

“Yes.” [but dark doesn’t move, simply stares at murdock silently, contemplatively, for a moment]

As soon as he’s released, Murdock makes a beeline to try and grab his knife. “I’m meant to be meeting him in twenty minutes for lunch and for proof. Don’t know why he wanted you dead, just know he paid well enough.”

[dark merely watches murdock, seeming to be entertained by his mannerisms. almost as though he is aware of murdock’s thoughts, and find them amusing]

“Alright. Fine. Don’t try anything, or I’m finishing the contract.” He marches out of the office at a quick pace, silently hoping that he loses Dark on the way through the building. The restaurant he was supposed to meet at is only a short walk, and he keeps checking over his shoulder for a sign of him following.

[dark does not follow him out of the office, watching murdock march out. however, murdock is always able to catch a glimpse of him among the crowd whenever he looks over his shoulders. to enforce his point, dark sends murdock a message]

Just outside the restaurant, he hears the voice in his head. That’s something very new, not like his other delusions. Slowly turning to try and spot Dark in the crowds, he whispers. “What are you?”

“Not human, clearly.”

[dark drops into the seat the contractor just evacuated, across murdock. he notes the blood on murdock’s hand, and his distracted appearance. mostly for his own amusement, he tells murdock,]

Murdock blinks a few times, trying to register how Dark just started to exist in that chair. Wiping the blood off of his hand, he tries not to appear so horrified.

[dark is watching murdock with that peculiar gaze again. he wonders what he might do with murdock. he liked the little human. Perhaps even enough to have an interest in his meddlings]

“Like it wouldn’t be the first time. I’ll handle him fine, and beat you to your kill. So unfortunate for you.” Taking another bite of his pasta, he grins his usual devilish grin. A gold tooth that’s cracking apart shown in his smile.

[dark doubts murdock, or anyone, for that matter, will be finding their contractor again in a short while. dark thinks he might even leave the human’s body in his reality, not bothering with its state]

“We best not. I’d hate to actually have to kill you. You seem too pesky a challenge.” Murdock pushes his plate to the side, trying to avoid the eyes of anyone in the restaurant. There’s not money to cover dinner in his pocket, so it’ll have to be a mad dash to the door.

“You did try to kill me, little one,” [says dark quietly, though without any real heat. nothing in his posture speaks of threat or aggression, but his eyes are, as usual, naturally unnerving to the average person; the only possible sign of his being supernatural] “I know when you’re scared. When you work so hard to survive in your bleak conditions.”

“I try to kill a lot of people. I usually succeed in most, so congratulations on being an outlier.” A rock has found its way to comfortably rest in his stomach, shifting as he tries to break eye contact with Dark. Whatever he is, it’s plainly not human. Perhaps Murdock could run, never get caught by the beast.

[dark does not comment on that, but the look he gives murdock conveys enough: he doubts either of them believe in what murdock has claimed]

Face draining of blood, he grips tightly onto the cutlery. A terrible weapon, but necessary in case Dark decides to lunge for him. While the crowd in the streets could protect him for a bit, eventually it would clear out entirely.

“I have given you your decency — more than you deserve, especially after you tried to kill me. I doubt that was very decent of you.”

(Slash) @murderinthemaking

It’s another hired hit, cheap enough that he only has to kill the guy. Following him into an office building, and easily pinning him to the wall and pushing the knife between his ribs. Not close enough to the heart, but it should at least pierce through the lungs.

[dark simply glances down at the wound in his chest, and the rapidly staining shirt over it. he has quite forgotten how much one bleeds from an open wound, and is vaguely intrigued be the reminder]

The lack of a scream is unnerving, and the smile is something he tries to ignore. His victim hasn’t even faltered, just watching the blood pour from the wound. There’s not even an attempt to stop the bleeding, so Murdock tries to relax.

[dark’s interest is caught by the indication that he is a paid job. he does not think he has been in that reality long enough to be noticed by anyone, let alone marked a target. he is less concerned than irritated, now having to track down a new troublemaker]

His back was turned for a few seconds, checking to make sure that no one had followed them. At the sound of something moving, and the lack of knife in his hand, Murdock turns in shock. Trying to convince himself it’s just another episode, and he’s seeing things again.

“I’m afraid not, little one,” [says dark, approaching murdock. he does not bother suppressing a little smile, wondering what reactions he can pull out of murdock, wondering how he will figure out the way murdock works…]

While it’s annoying Dark has his knife, Murdock has another five strapped to his body. Pulling one out from his thigh to defend himself with. A little bit of panic hits him when he notices the lack of blood or a wound. All that means is that he’ll have to work a bit harder.

[dark does not falter in his steps as he approaches murdock, showing no acknowledgement of the new knife murdock has pulled out. he ignores as well murdock’s protests]

“What of him? He hired a hitman, what’s he going to do when I don’t kill you, call the cops?” As Dark steps towards him, he keeps trying to see where the wound was. There had been a distortion of sorts around him, but nothing he can say that could’ve taken away the bleeding.

[dark allows him an amused smile. a condescending acknowledgment of a child’s tricks]

“That’s all? Alright, your funeral I suppose. But don’t get a fucking step closer. Give me my knife, and we can be on our way. How does that sound?” While he does his best to sound genuine, Murdock is ready to bolt out of there in a heartbeat. Besides, what harm could Dark actually do?

[dark does not believe murdock either way, jumpy little fawn that he is. he also does not believe that murdock is aware of the gravity of his situation. he will need little encouragement to remind murdock of that]

“Oh fuck you, you little bastard! That knife is more important than you’ll ever be! I’ll take you to him now, but I’ll be carrying you in a god damn body bag.” Spinning his knife a few more times, Murdock moves to pin Dark to the nearest wall. Knife ready to start slicing over whatever flesh he can find.

[dark is done humouring murdock. he has murdock shoved up against the wall before the human can register the change, his entire body paralysed, pinned in place by invisible forces he will not be able to see. the knife in murdock’s hand will be rendered useless and obsolete]

“Hey-“ Murdocks voice disappears as he’s shoved against the wall, almost growling as he finds himself unable to move despite nothing physically keeping him there. As the knife is placed against his neck, he tries to spit at Dark. Finding his mouth suddenly dry, he bares his teeth instead.

[dark only continues to smile at murdock lashing out like the cornered animal that he is]

“You just want to meet the contractor? Done and dusted. I hate doing hit work anyways, I’m only in that for the money. I prefer my personal work, and I don’t think you fit my usual.”

“Yes.” [but dark doesn’t move, simply stares at murdock silently, contemplatively, for a moment]

As soon as he’s released, Murdock makes a beeline to try and grab his knife. “I’m meant to be meeting him in twenty minutes for lunch and for proof. Don’t know why he wanted you dead, just know he paid well enough.”

[dark merely watches murdock, seeming to be entertained by his mannerisms. almost as though he is aware of murdock’s thoughts, and find them amusing]

“Alright. Fine. Don’t try anything, or I’m finishing the contract.” He marches out of the office at a quick pace, silently hoping that he loses Dark on the way through the building. The restaurant he was supposed to meet at is only a short walk, and he keeps checking over his shoulder for a sign of him following.

[dark does not follow him out of the office, watching murdock march out. however, murdock is always able to catch a glimpse of him among the crowd whenever he looks over his shoulders. to enforce his point, dark sends murdock a message]

Just outside the restaurant, he hears the voice in his head. That’s something very new, not like his other delusions. Slowly turning to try and spot Dark in the crowds, he whispers. “What are you?”

“Not human, clearly.”

[dark drops into the seat the contractor just evacuated, across murdock. he notes the blood on murdock’s hand, and his distracted appearance. mostly for his own amusement, he tells murdock,]

Murdock blinks a few times, trying to register how Dark just started to exist in that chair. Wiping the blood off of his hand, he tries not to appear so horrified.

[dark is watching murdock with that peculiar gaze again. he wonders what he might do with murdock. he liked the little human. Perhaps even enough to have an interest in his meddlings]

“Like it wouldn’t be the first time. I’ll handle him fine, and beat you to your kill. So unfortunate for you.” Taking another bite of his pasta, he grins his usual devilish grin. A gold tooth that’s cracking apart shown in his smile.

[dark doubts murdock, or anyone, for that matter, will be finding their contractor again in a short while. dark thinks he might even leave the human’s body in his reality, not bothering with its state]

“We best not. I’d hate to actually have to kill you. You seem too pesky a challenge.” Murdock pushes his plate to the side, trying to avoid the eyes of anyone in the restaurant. There’s not money to cover dinner in his pocket, so it’ll have to be a mad dash to the door.

“You did try to kill me, little one,” [says dark quietly, though without any real heat. nothing in his posture speaks of threat or aggression, but his eyes are, as usual, naturally unnerving to the average person; the only possible sign of his being supernatural] “I know when you’re scared. When you work so hard to survive in your bleak conditions.”

“I try to kill a lot of people. I usually succeed in most, so congratulations on being an outlier.” A rock has found its way to comfortably rest in his stomach, shifting as he tries to break eye contact with Dark. Whatever he is, it’s plainly not human. Perhaps Murdock could run, never get caught by the beast.

[dark does not comment on that, but the look he gives murdock conveys enough: he doubts either of them believe in what murdock has claimed]

(Slash) @murderinthemaking

It’s another hired hit, cheap enough that he only has to kill the guy. Following him into an office building, and easily pinning him to the wall and pushing the knife between his ribs. Not close enough to the heart, but it should at least pierce through the lungs.

[dark simply glances down at the wound in his chest, and the rapidly staining shirt over it. he has quite forgotten how much one bleeds from an open wound, and is vaguely intrigued be the reminder]

The lack of a scream is unnerving, and the smile is something he tries to ignore. His victim hasn’t even faltered, just watching the blood pour from the wound. There’s not even an attempt to stop the bleeding, so Murdock tries to relax.

[dark’s interest is caught by the indication that he is a paid job. he does not think he has been in that reality long enough to be noticed by anyone, let alone marked a target. he is less concerned than irritated, now having to track down a new troublemaker]

His back was turned for a few seconds, checking to make sure that no one had followed them. At the sound of something moving, and the lack of knife in his hand, Murdock turns in shock. Trying to convince himself it’s just another episode, and he’s seeing things again.

“I’m afraid not, little one,” [says dark, approaching murdock. he does not bother suppressing a little smile, wondering what reactions he can pull out of murdock, wondering how he will figure out the way murdock works…]

While it’s annoying Dark has his knife, Murdock has another five strapped to his body. Pulling one out from his thigh to defend himself with. A little bit of panic hits him when he notices the lack of blood or a wound. All that means is that he’ll have to work a bit harder.

[dark does not falter in his steps as he approaches murdock, showing no acknowledgement of the new knife murdock has pulled out. he ignores as well murdock’s protests]

“What of him? He hired a hitman, what’s he going to do when I don’t kill you, call the cops?” As Dark steps towards him, he keeps trying to see where the wound was. There had been a distortion of sorts around him, but nothing he can say that could’ve taken away the bleeding.

[dark allows him an amused smile. a condescending acknowledgment of a child’s tricks]

“That’s all? Alright, your funeral I suppose. But don’t get a fucking step closer. Give me my knife, and we can be on our way. How does that sound?” While he does his best to sound genuine, Murdock is ready to bolt out of there in a heartbeat. Besides, what harm could Dark actually do?

[dark does not believe murdock either way, jumpy little fawn that he is. he also does not believe that murdock is aware of the gravity of his situation. he will need little encouragement to remind murdock of that]

“Oh fuck you, you little bastard! That knife is more important than you’ll ever be! I’ll take you to him now, but I’ll be carrying you in a god damn body bag.” Spinning his knife a few more times, Murdock moves to pin Dark to the nearest wall. Knife ready to start slicing over whatever flesh he can find.

[dark is done humouring murdock. he has murdock shoved up against the wall before the human can register the change, his entire body paralysed, pinned in place by invisible forces he will not be able to see. the knife in murdock’s hand will be rendered useless and obsolete]

“Hey-“ Murdocks voice disappears as he’s shoved against the wall, almost growling as he finds himself unable to move despite nothing physically keeping him there. As the knife is placed against his neck, he tries to spit at Dark. Finding his mouth suddenly dry, he bares his teeth instead.

[dark only continues to smile at murdock lashing out like the cornered animal that he is]

“You just want to meet the contractor? Done and dusted. I hate doing hit work anyways, I’m only in that for the money. I prefer my personal work, and I don’t think you fit my usual.”

“Yes.” [but dark doesn’t move, simply stares at murdock silently, contemplatively, for a moment]

As soon as he’s released, Murdock makes a beeline to try and grab his knife. “I’m meant to be meeting him in twenty minutes for lunch and for proof. Don’t know why he wanted you dead, just know he paid well enough.”

[dark merely watches murdock, seeming to be entertained by his mannerisms. almost as though he is aware of murdock’s thoughts, and find them amusing]

“Alright. Fine. Don’t try anything, or I’m finishing the contract.” He marches out of the office at a quick pace, silently hoping that he loses Dark on the way through the building. The restaurant he was supposed to meet at is only a short walk, and he keeps checking over his shoulder for a sign of him following.

[dark does not follow him out of the office, watching murdock march out. however, murdock is always able to catch a glimpse of him among the crowd whenever he looks over his shoulders. to enforce his point, dark sends murdock a message]

Just outside the restaurant, he hears the voice in his head. That’s something very new, not like his other delusions. Slowly turning to try and spot Dark in the crowds, he whispers. “What are you?”

“Not human, clearly.”

[dark drops into the seat the contractor just evacuated, across murdock. he notes the blood on murdock’s hand, and his distracted appearance. mostly for his own amusement, he tells murdock,]

Murdock blinks a few times, trying to register how Dark just started to exist in that chair. Wiping the blood off of his hand, he tries not to appear so horrified.

[dark is watching murdock with that peculiar gaze again. he wonders what he might do with murdock. he liked the little human. Perhaps even enough to have an interest in his meddlings]

“Like it wouldn’t be the first time. I’ll handle him fine, and beat you to your kill. So unfortunate for you.” Taking another bite of his pasta, he grins his usual devilish grin. A gold tooth that’s cracking apart shown in his smile.

[dark doubts murdock, or anyone, for that matter, will be finding their contractor again in a short while. dark thinks he might even leave the human’s body in his reality, not bothering with its state]

“We best not. I’d hate to actually have to kill you. You seem too pesky a challenge.” Murdock pushes his plate to the side, trying to avoid the eyes of anyone in the restaurant. There’s not money to cover dinner in his pocket, so it’ll have to be a mad dash to the door.

“You did try to kill me, little one,” [says dark quietly, though without any real heat. nothing in his posture speaks of threat or aggression, but his eyes are, as usual, naturally unnerving to the average person; the only possible sign of his being supernatural] “I know when you’re scared. When you work so hard to survive in your bleak conditions.”

What are you?!

Eric is frozen to the spot like a deer in headlights. Something horrifying had just been in front of him, probably worse still that he watched someone..something kill it. When he steps closer, Eric cowers away, still unable to move.

[dark stops in front of eric, close, and leans down with a slight tilt of his head, observing the delightful specimen in front of him. vaguely he thinks that eric might be spooked by the intensity and alienness of his glare. eric reeks of that lovely fear that plagues his kind, one which he is most acquainted with]

“I-I’ve..I’ve died a lot..survived it a-all too..” So badly he wants to be brave, be worthy of something. Slowly, he steps back away, ready to run. He can survive this, he has to.

[eric will not know the implications of his words, but dark laughs inwardly at his little self assurance. if only eric knew]

“Wh-what for?” Swallowing hard, Eric tries to figure where he is anymore. He’d been walking home from work, because Derek had taken his car. The noises he’d heard had frightened him, and he’d peaked around to see the beast being killed.

[dark only smiles. for such an abrupt and unexpected intruder, eric is proving far more fascinating than dark has initially believed]

He knows it’s going to be bad, and all he can think of his moving. Running out into the now dark street, trying to stay out of the light. Reaching into his bag for something to defend himself with, only finding a lacrosse ball he uses for his stretches.

[there is neither sound nor movement down the dark alley, but after a painful minute that seems to last a lifetime, eric’s lacrosse ball is rolling across the ground, straight back towards him. it taps into his shoe and stops]

As he feels the ball hit his foot again, he gives up on hiding. He’s already been found, hasn’t he? As quietly as he can, he stands up, and tries to run where he thought the exit to the alley way was.

[the dead end wall comes up before eric, mercilessly solid and immovable beneath his fingers: he’s walked right into the wrong end of the alley]

Panicked, he turns around to face Dark. Completely trapped within the alley. The only exit is the one blocked by him, so he comes up with a rash decision. He knows he’s strong, and decides to try and barrel through Dark.

[eric has barely reached dark when dark catches him effortlessly and has eric shoved and pinned against the alley wall. his little prey will not even have the reflexes to register such sudden change. his hand finds eric throat, tipping his head back to look into his eyes]

“Le-let go of me!” Struggling against the wall, he almost whimpers when he’s forced to look up into Darks eyes. Almost soulless, and definitely not human. Swallowing hard under his hand, Eric tries anything to escape. Kicking out his legs to try and knock him over.

[eric’s persistence and preservation impress dark, and for a moment he simply watches as eric struggles against him, barely feeling his desperate attempts at freedom]

Panting for air, he tries to escape in the few seconds that Dark lets go of his throat. Fruitless, when he’s pinned to the wall with his hair. Yelling out as it stings his scalp. “I-I..Yo-you’re not going to ki-kill me…”

[eric will soon find himself immobile, frozen to the spot, with his arms falling back to his sides as his ability to move is stolen by dark, who chuckles softly at eric’s faltering declaration]

Mind racing, he tries to move. Desperately trying to escape, but his body feels like it’s made of lead. So heavy, and almost tiring just by thinking of moving. All he can do is swallow in fear, trying to avoid eye contact.

“Now, now...”

Whimpering, Eric tries to avoid looking at the finger just poking at his socket. So easily it could dig in and twist, leaving him like his brother Merrick. There’s a little relief when the hand leaves l, but it forces him to look into Darks eyes.

“Whatever I want?”

“Wa-wait no! No, I-I ca-can’t ju-just give..give you t-that. Do-don’t know ho-how to…do-don’t want to…” Squeezing his eyes shut, Eric does whatever he can to avoid his gaze. If he can escape those empty eyes, it feels like he can escape his fate.

[dark tsks disapprovingly, though his is enjoying himself far to much to be much serious]

Still trying to pull against his hold, Eric refuses to open his eyes again. If anything happens, he’d rather not watch the gore. “No! Pl-please, I’m n-not! Please….” Sobbing out, his frozen body trembles in place.

[dark simply smiles]

Swallowing hard, he still tries to kick Dark. Not wanting to owe a favour of any sort to a being like that. With no avail, he slumps against the wall in exhaustion.

“Did I now? After you walked in yourself?”

“Yo-you could’ve ju-just left me!” Blood drains from his face, blinking hard as he forces himself to stay conscious. Almost at the point of passing out, wasting energy on trying to escape whatever is keeping him still.

[dark only continues to smile]

“No! N-no I don’t! Wh-what do you wa-want from me? I..I don’t understand plea-please!” Writhing in the hold against the wall, Eric keeps trying to move in anyway. Vision swimming as he tries to look around.

“So much noise…”

“I-I don’t want to d-die! I-I think I’m allowed to fu-fucking fight back! I..I wa-want to go home..” He keeps trying to move his head, trying to smash it against Darks to stun him. No matter what he does, he’s pinned to the wall, completely paralyzed

“I’m going to let you go,” [says dark, bemused, in a tone so genuine and truthful sounding] “and you’re going to live… if that’s what you want Eric.”

“Th-thank you..thank you! I..thank you..” Still trying to move out of the invisible force surrounding him, he’s trying to look relieved. Like he won’t be hurt. “Ca-can you..can you release that uh..th-that thing keeping me here?”

“Whatever I think you can offer.” [is the cryptic answer] “You will simply owe me, Eric.”

“Ok..ju-just please..do-don’t hurt my da-dad.” Pulling his handkerchief out, Eric tries to breathe normally. Heart pounding in his chest, and trembling like a leaf.

[dark doesn’t show the smile he feels, at successfully trapping eric into his agreement. he will be pleased with his catch]

He goes pale, probably looking like a corpse with how clammy he’s become. Trying to pace back and forth, but his legs feel too weak. Leaning against the wall as his hand tremble.

[dark only laughs softly, finally releasing the force holding eric pinned in place and stepping away. he does not need to restrain eric any longer. he already has eric trapped, more than he can be, with his promise]

Finally free to move again, he’s pacing around the alley. Pulling out his handkerchief, trying to breathe in the familiar smell to steady himself. Unsure of what he’s signed himself up for. “Wh-what do you want? I..I ca-can’t give you an—anything!”

“You do not have to worry, Eric,” [says dark, with a misleadingly comforting smile] “You will have your uses.”

"are you okay?”

[dark lowers himself in front of enzo slowly, taking in his appearance. he is no longer as worried about enzo as he has once been, having nursed enzo back to health frequently in the time he has gotten used to enzo’s lifestyle. however, his tone is still careful as he asked,]

Enzo shakes his head, now mildly confused. He decides to look down at his leg, his eyebrows raising as he simply hums in acknowledgement of the wound. A little over half the blade is stuck in his leg and it's uncomfortable to move.

[dark gives enzo his reserved soft smile, seeking to put enzo in an easy mood, although he doubts enzo will be prone to panic in his disoriented state]

The amount of blood he's lost actually starts to effect Enzo now, a wave of dizziness hitting him all at once and he has to blink a few times to see somewhat straight again.

[dark watches enzo, fondly and carefully]

Enzo thinks about the suggestion for a moment, glancing between his blood-soaked thigh and Dark. Then he nods.

[dark places a small kiss to enzo’s forehead] “Of course, darling.”

Enzo barely flinches as Dark pulls the knife out, the only thing eliciting any reaction from him being the speed at which it's removed.

[dark places the knife to the side carefully, intending to collect it afterwards, intending to hunt down its owners]

[dark catches sight of enzo’s glazed expression, and his concern is expressed in the slight pause in his actions. he is not sure if enzo ought to be loosing consciousness, but he is certain to ensure enzo will not be in danger from his wounds]

“Talk to me, darling.”

He nods slowly, his eyes closing once more. He's pale, very pale, almost concerningly pale. He's also colder than usual, his heartbeat considerably slower than usual as well.

[dark runs his thumb absentmindedly on enzo’s cheek, contemplating taking enzo back to the manor, where he can keep an eye on enzo. he does not want to let enzo out of sight. he will always be able to watch over enzo in the manor. he will be able to ensure enzo’s life force does not fade]

Enzo simply nods again, almost entirely unconscious now, forcing himself to stay awake just a little longer. He leans against Dark's hand.

[dark lets enzo nuzzle into his hand for a moment before withdrawing, noting enzo’s statement]

Enzo just about registers that he's been moved, slumping against Dark when he picks him up. It takes him a moment to even register the question but when he does, his head barely moves as he nods.

[dark picks up enzo’s answer]

[dark sits by enzo’s side, tucked into his bed, watching over him as he sleeps. there is warmth from the burning fireplace in the room that has not been there before]

[dark checks on enzo periodically throughout the night, careful with his powers, reluctant to touch enzo with his eternally cold hands. he does not let enzo cross over into any zone of endangerment with his life force]

After nearly 14 hours, Enzo wakes up, eyes just barely opening as he shifts from his previous position in bed. He doesn't seem to realise where he is yet, nor will he for a while.

[dark appears by enzo’s side, settling close to him. the fire burns throughout the night, kept alive by dark, now casting him into slight shadow]

Enzo gives him a fond smile, reaching over to hold his hand. He's glad that Dark's there — wherever he is feels much safer now.

[dark hesitates an imperceptible moment before returning the hold on enzo’s hand. he only smiles in response to enzo’s thanks; he has no need of it, but he will allow enzo to express his gratitude]

"are you okay?”

[dark lowers himself in front of enzo slowly, taking in his appearance. he is no longer as worried about enzo as he has once been, having nursed enzo back to health frequently in the time he has gotten used to enzo’s lifestyle. however, his tone is still careful as he asked,]

Enzo shakes his head, now mildly confused. He decides to look down at his leg, his eyebrows raising as he simply hums in acknowledgement of the wound. A little over half the blade is stuck in his leg and it's uncomfortable to move.

[dark gives enzo his reserved soft smile, seeking to put enzo in an easy mood, although he doubts enzo will be prone to panic in his disoriented state]

The amount of blood he's lost actually starts to effect Enzo now, a wave of dizziness hitting him all at once and he has to blink a few times to see somewhat straight again.

[dark watches enzo, fondly and carefully]

Enzo thinks about the suggestion for a moment, glancing between his blood-soaked thigh and Dark. Then he nods.

[dark places a small kiss to enzo’s forehead] “Of course, darling.”

Enzo barely flinches as Dark pulls the knife out, the only thing eliciting any reaction from him being the speed at which it's removed.

[dark places the knife to the side carefully, intending to collect it afterwards, intending to hunt down its owners]

[dark catches sight of enzo’s glazed expression, and his concern is expressed in the slight pause in his actions. he is not sure if enzo ought to be loosing consciousness, but he is certain to ensure enzo will not be in danger from his wounds]

“Talk to me, darling.”

He nods slowly, his eyes closing once more. He's pale, very pale, almost concerningly pale. He's also colder than usual, his heartbeat considerably slower than usual as well.

[dark runs his thumb absentmindedly on enzo’s cheek, contemplating taking enzo back to the manor, where he can keep an eye on enzo. he does not want to let enzo out of sight. he will always be able to watch over enzo in the manor. he will be able to ensure enzo’s life force does not fade]

Enzo simply nods again, almost entirely unconscious now, forcing himself to stay awake just a little longer. He leans against Dark's hand.

[dark lets enzo nuzzle into his hand for a moment before withdrawing, noting enzo’s statement]

Enzo just about registers that he's been moved, slumping against Dark when he picks him up. It takes him a moment to even register the question but when he does, his head barely moves as he nods.

[dark picks up enzo’s answer]

[dark sits by enzo’s side, tucked into his bed, watching over him as he sleeps. there is warmth from the burning fireplace in the room that has not been there before]

[dark checks on enzo periodically throughout the night, careful with his powers, reluctant to touch enzo with his eternally cold hands. he does not let enzo cross over into any zone of endangerment with his life force]

After nearly 14 hours, Enzo wakes up, eyes just barely opening as he shifts from his previous position in bed. He doesn't seem to realise where he is yet, nor will he for a while.

[dark appears by enzo’s side, settling close to him. the fire burns throughout the night, kept alive by dark, now casting him into slight shadow]

"are you okay?”

[dark lowers himself in front of enzo slowly, taking in his appearance. he is no longer as worried about enzo as he has once been, having nursed enzo back to health frequently in the time he has gotten used to enzo’s lifestyle. however, his tone is still careful as he asked,]

Enzo shakes his head, now mildly confused. He decides to look down at his leg, his eyebrows raising as he simply hums in acknowledgement of the wound. A little over half the blade is stuck in his leg and it's uncomfortable to move.

[dark gives enzo his reserved soft smile, seeking to put enzo in an easy mood, although he doubts enzo will be prone to panic in his disoriented state]

The amount of blood he's lost actually starts to effect Enzo now, a wave of dizziness hitting him all at once and he has to blink a few times to see somewhat straight again.

[dark watches enzo, fondly and carefully]

Enzo thinks about the suggestion for a moment, glancing between his blood-soaked thigh and Dark. Then he nods.

[dark places a small kiss to enzo’s forehead] “Of course, darling.”

Enzo barely flinches as Dark pulls the knife out, the only thing eliciting any reaction from him being the speed at which it's removed.

[dark places the knife to the side carefully, intending to collect it afterwards, intending to hunt down its owners]

[dark catches sight of enzo’s glazed expression, and his concern is expressed in the slight pause in his actions. he is not sure if enzo ought to be loosing consciousness, but he is certain to ensure enzo will not be in danger from his wounds]

“Talk to me, darling.”

He nods slowly, his eyes closing once more. He's pale, very pale, almost concerningly pale. He's also colder than usual, his heartbeat considerably slower than usual as well.

[dark runs his thumb absentmindedly on enzo’s cheek, contemplating taking enzo back to the manor, where he can keep an eye on enzo. he does not want to let enzo out of sight. he will always be able to watch over enzo in the manor. he will be able to ensure enzo’s life force does not fade]

Enzo simply nods again, almost entirely unconscious now, forcing himself to stay awake just a little longer. He leans against Dark's hand.

[dark lets enzo nuzzle into his hand for a moment before withdrawing, noting enzo’s statement]

Enzo just about registers that he's been moved, slumping against Dark when he picks him up. It takes him a moment to even register the question but when he does, his head barely moves as he nods.

[dark picks up enzo’s answer]

[dark sits by enzo’s side, tucked into his bed, watching over him as he sleeps. there is warmth from the burning fireplace in the room that has not been there before]

[dark checks on enzo periodically throughout the night, careful with his powers, reluctant to touch enzo with his eternally cold hands. he does not let enzo cross over into any zone of endangerment with his life force]

What are you?!

Eric is frozen to the spot like a deer in headlights. Something horrifying had just been in front of him, probably worse still that he watched someone..something kill it. When he steps closer, Eric cowers away, still unable to move.

[dark stops in front of eric, close, and leans down with a slight tilt of his head, observing the delightful specimen in front of him. vaguely he thinks that eric might be spooked by the intensity and alienness of his glare. eric reeks of that lovely fear that plagues his kind, one which he is most acquainted with]

“I-I’ve..I’ve died a lot..survived it a-all too..” So badly he wants to be brave, be worthy of something. Slowly, he steps back away, ready to run. He can survive this, he has to.

[eric will not know the implications of his words, but dark laughs inwardly at his little self assurance. if only eric knew]

“Wh-what for?” Swallowing hard, Eric tries to figure where he is anymore. He’d been walking home from work, because Derek had taken his car. The noises he’d heard had frightened him, and he’d peaked around to see the beast being killed.

[dark only smiles. for such an abrupt and unexpected intruder, eric is proving far more fascinating than dark has initially believed]

He knows it’s going to be bad, and all he can think of his moving. Running out into the now dark street, trying to stay out of the light. Reaching into his bag for something to defend himself with, only finding a lacrosse ball he uses for his stretches.

[there is neither sound nor movement down the dark alley, but after a painful minute that seems to last a lifetime, eric’s lacrosse ball is rolling across the ground, straight back towards him. it taps into his shoe and stops]

As he feels the ball hit his foot again, he gives up on hiding. He’s already been found, hasn’t he? As quietly as he can, he stands up, and tries to run where he thought the exit to the alley way was.

[the dead end wall comes up before eric, mercilessly solid and immovable beneath his fingers: he’s walked right into the wrong end of the alley]

Panicked, he turns around to face Dark. Completely trapped within the alley. The only exit is the one blocked by him, so he comes up with a rash decision. He knows he’s strong, and decides to try and barrel through Dark.

[eric has barely reached dark when dark catches him effortlessly and has eric shoved and pinned against the alley wall. his little prey will not even have the reflexes to register such sudden change. his hand finds eric throat, tipping his head back to look into his eyes]

“Le-let go of me!” Struggling against the wall, he almost whimpers when he’s forced to look up into Darks eyes. Almost soulless, and definitely not human. Swallowing hard under his hand, Eric tries anything to escape. Kicking out his legs to try and knock him over.

[eric’s persistence and preservation impress dark, and for a moment he simply watches as eric struggles against him, barely feeling his desperate attempts at freedom]

Panting for air, he tries to escape in the few seconds that Dark lets go of his throat. Fruitless, when he’s pinned to the wall with his hair. Yelling out as it stings his scalp. “I-I..Yo-you’re not going to ki-kill me…”

[eric will soon find himself immobile, frozen to the spot, with his arms falling back to his sides as his ability to move is stolen by dark, who chuckles softly at eric’s faltering declaration]

Mind racing, he tries to move. Desperately trying to escape, but his body feels like it’s made of lead. So heavy, and almost tiring just by thinking of moving. All he can do is swallow in fear, trying to avoid eye contact.

“Now, now...”

Whimpering, Eric tries to avoid looking at the finger just poking at his socket. So easily it could dig in and twist, leaving him like his brother Merrick. There’s a little relief when the hand leaves l, but it forces him to look into Darks eyes.

“Whatever I want?”

“Wa-wait no! No, I-I ca-can’t ju-just give..give you t-that. Do-don’t know ho-how to…do-don’t want to…” Squeezing his eyes shut, Eric does whatever he can to avoid his gaze. If he can escape those empty eyes, it feels like he can escape his fate.

[dark tsks disapprovingly, though his is enjoying himself far to much to be much serious]

Still trying to pull against his hold, Eric refuses to open his eyes again. If anything happens, he’d rather not watch the gore. “No! Pl-please, I’m n-not! Please….” Sobbing out, his frozen body trembles in place.

[dark simply smiles]

Swallowing hard, he still tries to kick Dark. Not wanting to owe a favour of any sort to a being like that. With no avail, he slumps against the wall in exhaustion.

“Did I now? After you walked in yourself?”

“Yo-you could’ve ju-just left me!” Blood drains from his face, blinking hard as he forces himself to stay conscious. Almost at the point of passing out, wasting energy on trying to escape whatever is keeping him still.

[dark only continues to smile]

“No! N-no I don’t! Wh-what do you wa-want from me? I..I don’t understand plea-please!” Writhing in the hold against the wall, Eric keeps trying to move in anyway. Vision swimming as he tries to look around.