#squaronna

[Venice, Italy.]

The full moon showed its mysterious beauty on that night. At an old manor, silence was absolute... Until numerous screams of agony could be heard, one after another. That luxurious place was the scenario of an inhuman massacre. Between shattered glass and broken furniture, one figure stood still. How unfortunate all of those men were... For crossing her path. Worst of all... For being her targets.

The Bloody Maiden was on the hunt. 

And even outnumbered, she managed to take down her targets, one by one, like it wasn't a big deal. It was like a beast unleashed, slicing her enemies with her Sai daggers, each strike done with outstanding precision. She wasn't there just for a mere fight. Veronna Fellin only aimed to kill. The hits of blades, bullets or whatever those bastards were throwing at her in order to stop that onslaught... Bruised her body and made her bleed. But little they knew...

If she bleeds... She becomes stronger.

"What a shame... I thought you'd stand a chance..." The redhead mocked, noticing that one of her targets was still alive, crawling on the ground in a futile way to escape. Slowly, like a predator, she walked towards that man, her daggers in hand, blood dripping from the tips. Veronna had to be sure there would be no witnesses. "Nothing personal, but I like my job well done..."

Suddenly, a loud noise echoed. A gunshot. The bullet pierced her chest and made her bleed once more, making the redhead stop, giving a spark of hope. Was she finally... Dead? There was an eerie silence for a few seconds... Until her gaze was fixed on her last target, amethyst eyes shining with ferocity, her pupils sharpening in frenzy. A devilish smirk formed on her lips painted purple, with fangs at full display.

"...It can't be... The Devil of Venezia..!"

Those were the last words the man could say, before dropping the gun and getting hit by a violent strike from Veronna's daggers, piercing his flesh and ending his misery in a matter of seconds. Withdrawing her blades with a grin, she licked the tip of one of her blades, tasting the fresh blood it was tainted with, only to get a disgusted look in her face seconds after.

"...That's horrible. The blood from this scourge is the worst." She protested, spitting the blood out of pure anger. Her job done, she decided to admire the mess she made.

Walking in slow steps, Veronna could see every single detail from the attack on that manor. Corpses scattered around the floor, most of the areas completely ransacked and tainted by numerous bloodstains. A smirk formed on her lips, taking a small bit of pride from what she did. Venice was her territory, and no one stood a chance against her. She knew how filthy those men from the Mafia were. So being on her own, as a well-known assassin... They had to think twice before even thinking of facing someone like her.

Finding a luxurious seat that pretty much looked like a throne, Veronna decided to sit, her bruised body full of bloodstains adding a creepy contrast to the delicate furniture. A bottle of wine was displayed as well, so she took a glass and poured the drink gracefully. After a deep sigh, she raised it, dedicating that lonely toast to another victory, before taking a slow sip.

"Another lovely night in Venezia... Seems like nothing can stop me..."

Suddenly, she could hear a heartbeat. One of Veronna's perks due to her blood ability. It was fast, and getting closer by the second... Something wasn't right. She was sure that every single target on that manor was killed... Until she saw a mysterious figure busting out the front door. No, that man wasn't like the weaklings she faced before…

He was way different.

Although, the redhead didn't show any kind of surprise. But looking at that vicious long-haired swordsman in front of her, eyeing her like she was some kind of prey... It was something that piqued her interest. But seeing a very familiar insignia made her lips curl into a devilish smirk.

"...Oh... The Varia..." Veronna's tone was mocking, hiding a bit of mischief.

And with that very-well known yell of his, she confirmed her suspicions.

"Seems like you had fun tonight, Devil of Venezia..." The silver-haired swordsman shouted, not even bothered by the scenario in front of him. He was sure that Veronna wasn't an ordinary assassin.

"If it isn't Squalo... Why send one of the best Varia assassins to come after me?" The redhead chuckled in disdain, not even bothering the fact he was looking at her with murderous intent. "...Am I that dangerous, so you can deal with me personally?

"You've been causing too much trouble around... So the boss wanted me to capture you." Pointing his blade at her, Squalo didn't even bother her mocking tone. "...You're coming with me."

"And what if I say no?" Veronna replied, her hand shaking the glass a little bit, the wine swirling inside, before she took another long sip. "I have no business with the Vongola."

"In that case... I won't mind taking your damn life and just cut you piece by piece, Veronna." The vicious swordsman gave his ultimatum, getting into his fighting stance, his eyes fixed on Veronna, a predatory aura emanating from him.

"...Bastardo... Know your damn place." Taking a final sip, she threw the glass violently against a wall, shattering it in numerous pieces, before standing up. "But if you want a fight so badly..."

Silence. The only sound that could be heard was from the breeze hitting the windows of the old manor, the pale moonlight reflecting on the two assassins, their gazes never leaving each other. Aside from Veronna's body being covered in bloodstains and numerous bruises, she stood still. Grabbing her Sai once more, she got into her fighting stance as well, her crimson locks cascading on her shoulders.

"...I haven't danced in a while. Entertain me."

And with enormous speed, their blades finally engaged into combat. The sound of clashing steel echoed on that manor, with each move being perfectly parried, neither of them giving a single opening. Both assassins fought with absolute dexterity, and Veronna was strangely amused to fight someone who could give her a real challenge.

It was a raw and savage clash of blades. Squalo could see the ferocity in Veronna's eyes, and the way her attacks were becoming gradually more powerful. She was like a beast, and he felt like looking at himself in the mirror. Someone as feral and vicious as he was. Taking her down wouldn't be an easy task, but he would be sure that he'd emerge victorious.

"...Seems like I'll have to play dirty with you..."

With another swing of his sword, the hidden explosives who got thrown took Veronna off-guard, causing an instant explosion. By instinct, she backed off a second before, but that wasn't enough, and she ended up being damaged. In the middle of the fog, Squalo looked around to see if she was gone for good, only to see the redhead darting towards him with insane speed, twirling her daggers and aiming for his throat.

"You're mine...!"

Then, the sound of cut and pierced flesh could be heard. In the heat of battle, a terrifying silence. When the fog from the previous explosion finally dissipated, the outcome of the battle could be finally seen.

Squalo was panting heavily, a strand of his long hair falling to the ground, and a cut on his face. But he felt his left arm heavier. And he noticed that she was still pointing the Sai at his throat, but unable to move... 

Because his sword pierced Veronna's chest, tainting it with her blood.

The redhead was paralyzed, not moving a single muscle. "Is she dead?" Squalo asked in his thoughts. The drops of blood were slowly falling on the floor, and the only thing he could see was Veronna's body impaled by his blade. Until…

A mischievous giggle escaped from her lips, which made his eyes widen in horror.

"...Got you."

Veronna's voice sounded more like a growl, smirking with a maniacal aura. Her pupils sharpened once more, and her gaze focused at the cut on his face... The redhead got into a frenzy. And seeing that he was trying to withdraw his sword, but to no avail, just made her feel even more amused. She was like the Devil. The one she was known for.

"Let's see what you can give me..." One of her daggers pierced his shoulder, to her lack of luck, because she wanted to kill him, but due to her wound, her moves were limited. But that was enough to make him bleed and cover the tip of her blade. With a rather luscious move, she licked her dagger, her fangs showing, having a taste of his own blood.

"...Diavola...You should be dead!" Squalo cursed, trying his best to get rid from Veronna's trap, but to no avail. Of course, that wound she made on him was nothing, but he was still annoyed by the fact she shouldn't be doing that like she wasn't mortally wounded.

"Oh... It tastes... Like a sin." Another giggle left her lips, before she pushed herself even more towards him, the sword impaling her almost completely, until their faces were pretty close to each other. "Why don't you take it... As a little treat?"

Veronna leaned in, her breath husky against his skin, and her tongue darting out to lick his lips in an alluring way, smudging his lips with his own blood, the metallic taste lingering. At that moment, Squalo finally realized why she was known as the Devil of Venezia. Was she... Literally seducing him?

And with a swift move, she pulled herself out of his blade, an open wound shown in her chest. Normally, any other person should be dead. But due to her ability with blood, Veronna was sturdy by nature. He wouldn't be able to kill her, no matter how much he tried. That sudden move of hers didn't help either.

"Tell your boss that I tricked death once more, Squalo... That you can't kill the Devil of Venezia." Veronna chuckled, her expression feral yet mocking. She was really amused to see her blood drenching his blade. 

Then, she could hear numerous heartbeats from the outside. Which put an end to their deadly dance. Squalo was no fool, of course he'd call reinforcements. Maybe it wasn't him at all, but judging by the Varia, that wouldn't be surprising.

"... Guess that puts an end to our battle, signore... I'm afraid our meeting is no longer private." Veronna's voice was low and mischievous, her eyes still darting around the swordsman in front of her, as she aimed for one of the windows of the upper floor, standing on the edge.

"...I'm not done with you, puttana! I'll kill you!" The silver-haired swordsman shouted, his gaze burning in anger, as he charged towards her, trying to reach his target.

"And remember my words... I'll be a living reminder of your own failure."

With that, Veronna took a leap of faith, disappearing in the shadows, nowhere to be seen, leaving an angry swordsman behind, shouting in pure hatred, and feeling like they would continue their own dance... Later.

"Arrivederci, Squalo."

.

.

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[Venice, Italy. Several nights later.]

It was a special night in the city of lovers. The streets of Venice, once more, were full of people celebrating, being on land or sharing a gondola ride through the waterways. That time of the year, the citizens could enjoy an unique celebration. Being by the music, the luxurious attires, and their faces shrouded in mystery thanks to the masks covering them. It finally arrived, the Venice Carnival. Said celebration was something that brought people from all corners of Italy, and even foreigners. Everyone was welcome that night.

And one of them, was already enjoying the celebrations.

Veronna was still recovering from her last battle, but her wounds were almost fully healed. She knew it wouldn't be a good idea to show herself, but her Venetian roots took charge. There was no way she'd miss her favorite celebration of the year. Aside from being an assassin, she was very passionate about her hometown.

"Ah, the Carnival of Venezia... My favorite time of the year." She stated to herself, looking at the crowd from a balcony of a rich manor. Her attire brought the best that Venice could offer - A velvet purple dress, layered with some of the best fabrics of the country, also adorned with raven feathers, adding a rather eerie contrast. Hiding her face, a golden mask, covered in precious gems, mostly diamonds and amethysts. The same raven feathers from her dress were also featured in her mask. If anything, Veronna was simply a deadly beauty. A commoner wouldn't tell that lady was also one of the most feared assassins from the Mafia.

The redhead was attending a Masquerade ball, being one of the guests from that manor, but for some reason, didn't partake in the celebrations just yet. With a glass of wine in hand, she took a slow sip of the beverage, before returning to her stargazing. It was a full moon night, and once more she had a lonely toast. In fact, the main reason Veronna decided to stay in solitude was due to certain thoughts that couldn't leave her mind…

Since that fatidic battle.

Touching her chest, and feeling that her skin didn't fully heal from that wound... Her thoughts were instantly drawn to him. That damned vicious swordsman. Maybe luck was by her side because she managed to flee, or knowing his stubbornness, things wouldn't end that way. But that couldn't be the focus for her. It was the beginning of the Carnival, there were better things to do... She could forget her duties for a night, that wouldn't hurt.

"What a beautiful night... Better enjoy at its fullest." She took another sip of her wine, sighing in relief. Her gaze turned to the full moon, and even if a slow music started to play in the dance hall, she chose to just enjoy a drink alone on that balcony... Until realizing she wasn't alone.

"Oh, but I couldn't agree more." A masculine voice echoed, hearing Veronna's statement. When the redhead looked back, she noticed that another masquerader was watching her. Narrowing her eyes, she knew exactly what that meant. Aside from his luxurious outfit also mirroring the Venice standards, and a silver mask covering half of his features... That long silver hair tied up in a ponytail gave the hint she needed. So it was true, Squalo didn't give up on tracking her down. "...What a lovely belladonna like you is doing alone on a night like this?"

"I just thought I could have a little drink." Veronna replied, noticing that both were following Masquerade rules. If that was the case, better play along that little game. Giving a smirk and showing a little bit of her fangs, she took another sip of her wine. "I have my ways of enjoying a Carnival night."

"Then, perhaps we could indulge in a little dance? Unless you're scared of little old me..." In a rather courteous way, Squalo took one of Veronna's hands and placed a gentle kiss on her knuckles. He also noticed that both kept a facade, due to the whole Masquerade thing. Even so, he didn't let his guard down.

"Scared? I have no idea what you are talking about." The redhead wouldn't admit it, but she was caught by surprise by that act of chivalry. Compared to the savage battle both had a few nights ago, seeing that side of him was... Odd. But since they already started this pretending game, better just go with the flow. "However... Such a lovely night deserves a last dance, signore..."

Exchanging a few glances here and there, both walked towards the dance hall, where a slow music started playing. After bowing at each other in a sign of respect - And keeping themselves hidden due to the Masquerade rules, both starting their dance. It didn't take long for them to be the center of attention and drag the attention of the other masqueraders, who looked at the mysterious couple in awe. It wasn't intended, but their moves were precise and smooth, such a graceful sight.

However, hiding behind the grace of their own dance, it was clear there was something else going on. Their gazes were fixed on each other, watching every single move, almost like devouring with the eyes, or simply waiting for the smallest of mistakes. After a twirl that made Veronna's skirt float in a delicate way, the silence was finally broken.

"Not bad... You seem to be skilled." The redhead whispered, keeping their dance along with the facade. That also was a chance to get closer to her partner, even if that could be dangerous. But in that state, it was worth a shot.

"Hey... I can tell the same about you, signora." Squalo's voice was raspy and a bit calm, an odd contrast to his loud talking. He knew pretty well that was a game, and he didn't intend to lose, not on that night. "I'm just surprised no man here invited you for a dance."

"I don't blame them. Besides... No man in this world can give me what I want." Veronna stated, her tone mischievous. She was enjoying that little banter, more than she expected. With another twirl, their faces got a bit closer, only separated by the masks covering their features. 

Their waltz kept going smoothly, and between spins and touches, both realized that they were the main attraction of that Masquerade ball. Each step was made with such finesse, that it wouldn't be hard to tell they've been rehearsing for years. Which wasn't the case, because everything was a well-made disguise. However, such a game was too fun to simply give up now.

But Veronna knew the truth behind that act, and she was sure that she wasn't the only one. As a trained assassin, it wouldn't be hard to notice when your own life is in danger. A few call it instinct, others call it skill. But his eyes... Even hidden by the mask, she could tell they were hostile. Judging by her surroundings, the redhead was already thinking about another plan. But for now, it was better to keep their twisted waltz until the very end.

"That's a bit arrogant, you know? Saying things like that..." The silver-haired swordsman couldn't help but leave a small laugh, and after another twirl, one of his hands grabbed her waist, pulling their bodies closer in a swift move after the music stopped. "Especially now that you're in my grasp..."

"Well, too bad you can't kill me in front of all of these civilians..." Veronna didn't get affected by his own mocking, and hearing the applause of the crowd, it felt like both were in fact, the stars of that night. She could hear his heartbeat increasing by the proximity, or it could be the adrenaline of the moment. Then, she realized it was finally time to drop the facade. When her fingers tangled in a strand of his long silver locks, she leaned in, and left her best words to the end of their dance, a very well-known Venetian accent leaving her lips. "...Isn't that right... Squalo?"

She gave him a smirk and with a skilled move, the redhead pulled away, managing to get free from his arms and blend with the crowd. If anything, only a raven feather that fell from her dress stayed as a memory of that mysterious masquerader who just shared a dance with a fellow assassin. Veronna knew well now, that even in the Venice Carnival, a night that was supposed to be fun, nothing more, nothing less... She was still a target. Even so, her final words reached Squalo in a way that they'd be imprinted in his mind.

"You'll never catch me."

And for Squalo, things would definitely not end like that. Veronna was his target, and he wouldn't rest until seeing her life in his hands. Failure wasn't an option now. He would hunt her to hell and back just for the fact she called herself a reminder of his failure. Leaving the dance hall, he threw his mask away, and attached his sword. Now that he was away from all the civilians, the only thing to do was to track her down. Knowing that Venice was crowded, it could be a challenging task... Except by the fact he knew Veronna pretty well at the point of knowing the route she'd follow.

"We'll see about that, Devil of Venezia."

Meanwhile, fleeing from the manor, Veronna took the Sai daggers that were hidden on the side of her thighs, ripping part of the skirt's dress. This way, it would be easier to move around. Part of her was a bit upset for ruining such a beautiful dress, but there were more urgent matters. She knew that Squalo wouldn't give up, and had to prepare herself for an eventual fight. Aside from being an assassin, she didn't want to involve others who were celebrating on the town's streets. Veronna was very passionate and respectful about her hometown, and such a special night didn't deserve to be tainted with blood. Especially hers.

Jumping through the rooftops of the old and new buildings, the masked redhead was doing a great job finding the perfect escape route. Daggers in hand, she jumped from one to another with mastery, not being noticed by the commoners. Veronna looked around and spotted a route with two unused waterways, who seemed to be rather empty. She was about to follow it, until feeling a hostile presence. There was no doubt. 

Again, hearing that yell of his... Veronna realized that Squalo managed to find her.

"Hey... Thinking you can escape from me again?" The swordsman taunted, looking at Veronna with a predatory aura. It was completely different from the Masquerade ball from a while ago. That look in his eyes was vicious, wild. There was even a hint of annoyance, considering the outcome of their first battle.

"Can't help it... You're just mad that I tainted your pride..." Veronna hissed, her mask still hiding the slight annoyance from his last words. Clenching the Sai daggers in her hands, she kept their own banter going. "Or, you actually enjoyed dancing with me?"

"Don't be full of yourself, diavola. This time I'll make sure you're gone for good." Squalo scoffed, the sour taste of their battle still lingering on his lips. "Besides... Why don't we start... A real dance, right here and now?"

No words were needed after that. In the blink of an eye, both rushed with their weapons, clashing their blades in combat. And once more, they joined a deadly dance, with the main music being the sound of steel clashing. Both were skilled fighters with their own weapons, with every single move being parried and counter-attacked with a mastery that only they could achieve. It was a raw, ferocious battle, mirroring their nature while engaging in combat. Gritting her teeth, Veronna's moves became a little faster, trying to find the perfect opening. But she also knew that she couldn't take Varia's second-in-command that easily. She might use dual weapons, but they were blades nonetheless. And if there's something the redhead knew about Squalo, is how he simply destroyed every single one.

"Hey... Looks like I struck a nerve." Squalo's grin showed how confident he was in that battle. Even if their moves and skills were evenly matched, it was clear that he could see how Veronna was annoyed. Perhaps because her words about never being caught backfired.

"Are you sure about that? Bastardo... This fight is far from over!" Once again, their blades clashed, in a deadly dance of skills and even wits. A wicked smile formed on her lips, as her Sai clutched with his sword. "I'll make sure to bleed you dry now."

"Won't fall for that trick again, bella." Finding an opening, Squalo managed to give a powerful slash, freeing his sword from Veronna's daggers and making her flinch. At first, it seemed like nothing happened... Until her mask was cut in half, and blood started to drip from her forehead, revealing her face to him. Not only that, the same slash left some cuts on her dress. "Look what we have here... A bleeding mess."

If there was something on Veronna's mind right now, it is how she was fighting to not succumb to her frenzy. It seemed like Squalo completely forgot what happened a few nights ago, probably still thinking about his defeat instead of the opponent in front of him. But making her bleed? He shouldn't have done that.

Her pupils sharpened in anger, and she darted towards her target with ludicrous speed, aiming for a direct attack. Squalo knew pretty well what that meant, the memories of their first battle still fresh on his mind. Assuming his fighting stance once more, he was ready to parry her attack... Until she disappeared from his sight.

"What the--" He didn't have time to think, since the adrenaline of the battle took over. Veronna rose from his blind spot, her amethyst eyes shining in frenzy, twirling her daggers and aiming for his throat. Not only that, some droplets of blood that were left in the air assumed the form of small blades, making sure he'd be hit by all directions. He could be a well-trained assassin, but the ferocity in her voice made him shiver. A feeling he thought was lost long ago.

"...Danza Sanguine." That was one of Veronna's signature techniques, where she can use her blood to create small blades, aiming for all directions until reaching the center, giving almost no time for reaction. Once in the range of the blood, or her daggers, it was pretty much over.

For a few seconds, there was an eerie silence. Something else happened during Veronna's attack, but she was pretty sure that she succeeded. However, the redhead underestimated Squalo's skills and how he had such a quick reaction to her attack. And in the end, his sword clenched once more with her daggers, aside from the small blood blades successfully making numerous cuts on his upper body. But that feeling... Of being stunned... It could only mean one thing.

"...Attacco di Squalo."

In the end, he had to choose between parrying Veronna and getting hit by the other blades, or simply focus on them, risking getting hit by a fatal blow. And it seemed like his instincts were right. Veronna was paralyzed. Unable to move her arms, and with her Sai clutched on his blade. But her frenzy state gave her an extra perk. Seeing that her target was bleeding, it was a perfect opportunity. Leaning in with a strength that was rather inhuman, the redhead reached for his right shoulder, her lips finding his flesh and breaking it with her fangs, drawing a bit of blood.

"Gah! You damned diavola!" Squalo cursed, not believing in the scene he was witnessing, and not to mention the pain of her bite. Veronna's body should be paralyzed, so how was she able to move? Then, he remembered. The ferocity in her eyes. The same one that defies death every time their blades clash. Now he could understand why she was known... As the Devil of Venice. Not only that, said move also made Veronna escape from his own counter-attack, licking her lips in satisfaction.

"My, my... The blood of a peccatore. Delightful." A devilish smirk formed on Veronna's lips, while the effects of drawing Squalo's blood slowly started to affect her. The redhead was able to move her arms once more, daggers in hand, ready to strike again. She seemed almost... Inhuman. No wonder why many unfortunate souls never managed to take her life. And now, she was at her full strength, taking the lead of their heated battle.

"Hey... So you're like a hellish vampira, huh? Better watch my neck, then." Even at a disadvantage, Squalo didn't lose the chance to mock Veronna once more. That was a lucky move, though. He was pretty confident in his skills, and it would be pretty satisfying to break her in the end.

"Is it because of my fangs? Rude." Veronna scoffed, not liking that comparison in the slightest. In fact, it was a mix of coincidences. She was born with natural fangs, being a child brought to this world with a curse, courtesy of the Stregheria. Her perks with blood were also part of said curse, but she managed to turn it into her own weapon in battles. Something that turned her into the assassin she is. "Let's end this stupid chase."

Once more, their blades clashed. And now, Squalo could see the ferocious features of Veronna while parrying her vicious attacks. She was wild, untamed. And now... Even more dangerous. But she wouldn't be victorious. He was the most powerful swordsman from the Mafia. Numerous blades were broken by his own. And with Veronna it would be no different. Something was clear in his mind - He'd be the winner. She was nothing but a target.

Their blades kept engaged in combat, with powerful and skilled moves from both sides. Jumping through the buildings and rooftops, and only with the full moon as their witness. Reaching a place that was surrounded by the waterways, that was the place chosen by the climax of their battle.

"You're mine!!!" The redhead shouted, before her last attack got parried. Ferocious amethyst eyes were focused on her prey, until something made her stop. She felt her body getting heavy, and her frenzied state was fading. That never happened, and Veronna was bleeding as well. What was going on?

Then, she felt her body paralyzing. Feeling her own blood flow getting slower by the second. That didn't make sense for Veronna. She was not only bleeding, but also managed to draw Squalo's blood. She was supposed to be more sturdy, instead... She felt like her own body was shutting down, unable to control herself. Not only that, even Squalo's heartbeat, that she could hear from a distance... The sound was fading away. And he took that as an opportunity. Without thinking twice, he darted towards Veronna, ready for the fatal blow.

A sound of broken flesh echoed. Veronna's hands dropped the daggers on the ground, while she was on the edge of a rooftop. And Squalo's sword, once more, impaled her, being tainted by her own blood. It felt like karma, being hit twice by the same weapon... And exactly like the first time. But now... Veronna didn't have the upper hand.

"You're done, Devil of Venezia." 

Squalo was holding Veronna's limp body using his free arm, since she was still trapped by his own blade. But now, the ferocity that she would usually show after being wounded... It simply didn't happen. She was a tough opponent, and he respected that. However, it would be a matter of time until his skills proved that he was, in fact, superior.

Veronna couldn't help but to look at his predatory silver eyes, unable to move a single muscle. She hated that feeling. Of being defeated, unable to strike back. Not only that, her senses were slowly fading. Seeing that Veronna was on the brink of death, Squalo remembered what she did when they fought for the first time - Impaled by his own blade, licking his lips tainted by his own blood. Kind of an unusual kiss worthy of the Devil she was known for. It almost felt like a dèja vu for him.

"Remember the face of the one who claimed your life when you go to hell..." He leaned in slowly, closing the distance until their faces were almost touching, and feeling Veronna's breath on his skin. Now it was time to return the favor, and the silver-haired swordsman was eager to oblige.

"I'll always be better than you."

With that ultimatum, Squalo didn't think twice and clashed his lips on Veronna's, in a rather daring kiss, the same metallic taste of blood lingering on their lips for a while. Perhaps it was a payback for what she did before, or he simply wanted to end their twisted dance in another way, which was strangely poetic. But little he knew that Veronna was still conscious. She couldn't believe it... To be humiliated in such a way. But at least, Squalo's mission was done, and he managed to take down the Devil of Venice. 

Withdrawing his sword, he let Veronna's body fall freely until she landed on one of the waterways. Looking at her daggers, Squalo thought of taking them as a trophy, but for some reason... He decided to respect Veronna as a skilled fighter in the end. If Venice was her hometown... May the waters carry her final wishes. He took the daggers and threw them on the same waterway where Veronna's body fell, leaving him with only the memories of their battles - And Veronna's blood tainting his blade.

"Arrivederci, Veronna."

Meanwhile, a mysterious figure who was watching the aftermath of the battle from the shadows, finally decided to take action. Finding Veronna's body who got carried away by the water, and by a strike of luck, finding her weapons as well, they took the wounded assassin to a secluded alley. Making a cut on their hand, they let some drops of blood fall on Veronna's mouth, hoping that trick would work. Minutes passed, and no reaction. Then, all of a sudden, the redhead gasped, searching for air. She was breathing with a little bit of effort, however... Once again, the Devil of Venice managed to trick death.

And looking at her savior, wearing a typical Carnival attire, and a Serval mask... There was no doubt. Widening her eyes in surprise, Veronna couldn't say more.