#tmhm

Chapter 10 - Sweet dreams

 As the sun slowly started to go down, Regis gave out a heavy sigh, recalling the previous events. When he and the godling found the other woman still alive, they knew they couldn’t leave her there alone. The vampire forced to act quickly, left both women with Percy and hunted down the remaining members of the Black Hand, securing the nearby area. Then he moved the women to the nearest camp and with godling’s help, took care of them. Morrigan’s case was the worst, because it turned out the arrow she was shot with, was poisoned. He smelled it in her blood as soon as he examined her wound. Although the poison wasn’t too strong, it took all his knowledge and almost whole herb supply to save her. Luckily, he had just enough samples with him. Also Percy was a great help. As the vampire was taking care of the brunette, the godling searched the camp and brought some essential supplies as clean water, few relatively clean blankets and a sheet, which he tore up and prepared make-shift bandages. Then he started to carefully clean the other woman’s wounds. Regis couldn’t help but be impressed by how skilful the godling turned out to be. When he managed to fight off the poison and lower Morrigan’s fever, he finished godling’s task, mended the biggest wounds on the other woman’s body and applied quickly prepared ointment, where it was needed. After that, all wounds were covered up with bandages and the work was done.

 The vampire looked at two figures lying on the ground - both sleeping peacefully now, thanks to their effort - and he felt the fatigue finally caught up with him, pushing him to the brink of collapse. It was a long day and he felt himself drained in an unfamiliar way. Not only from the physical exertion but from the emotional overload. He sat down and focused on Morrigan’s face. He looked at her like he had never dared before, absorbing every detail like it was the air he needed to breathe. His heart gave him a painful ache when he realized how close he had come to losing her again. She had become so important to him, that he couldn’t even imagine his life without her anymore. When was the last time he had felt like this? Had it ever been that bad? He felt helpless, unable to control his own thoughts, feelings and body anymore. His situation, his behaviour, it could easily be compared to an addict. He knew the symptoms all too well. And he needed his fix - her voice, her smile, her skin on his... But the more he got, the more he needed, and it was driving him insane. Didn’t she know, she was unravelling him? Couldn’t she see, she was taking him apart piece by piece, so agonizingly slowly yet too fast for him to possibly cope? That moment when she smiled at him happily and kissed him, his mind went blank. Not thinking straight he clung to her and deepened the kiss and not only she didn’t push him away but also moaned in his arms. Remembering it, he felt a spark of hope suddenly grow exponentially, almost exploding into massive size and this time he didn’t even try to keep it contained. The vampire was under no illusions now. He fell head over heels in love with that woman. What he was feeling to her, frightened and delighted him all the same. He never felt something like that in his entire life. And it all made him feel like a complete idiot...

For once Regis let his inner vampire speak his thoughts - to logically regard the whole situation. Why on earth an ancient monster like him would fall in love with what he clearly sees as a lesser species? Perhaps, his strive to live like a person had something to do with it? He clearly ceased to feel good among his own kind, so maybe he was seeking solace among the races he vouched to respect and protect. After all, his unquenchable desire for penance, for the horrific blood binges of his youth was one of the reasons he was now calling himself a humanist. But when did he become so familiar with the lesser species? Living for so long, he made a lot of friends but that wasn’t the case. The truth dawned on him like a sudden slap in the face. Because none of those friendships were as strong as the one he shared with Geralt and his companions. A shared experience and weeks spent together, cemented their friendship. After meeting them, for the first time in his life he didn’t feel so alone and isolated because he was a part of something bigger. But in the end that friendship forced him into much more suffering. He almost lost his own life, defending his precious friends back at the Stygga castle and if that wasn’t hard enough, after he was nurtured back to life, again his loyalty to the witcher was tested, when he was forced to choose between his lifesaver and the monster slayer. And being cursed with a moral compass that his race mostly lacks, he broke the sacred law. He chose to protect the human and killed his own kin. And as if his existence wasn’t tormented enough, he was now declared a traitor and was forced to live far from the members of his race. When he thought about it, humans were the very reason of his constant torment. So why was he increasing his suffering by falling in love with one of them? There were so much differences between their races. She was nothing but a frail, mortal creature, doomed with a short existence and he was an ancient immortal monster. Even being as old as he was,  he was surely going to outlive her and then end up with a broken heart. Wasn’t that the sheer example of idiocy? The answer was simple - it was utterly idiotic, but no one can control the thoughts and inclinations of its own heart. After all, falling in love makes otherwise smart and self-respecting people feel, and act, ridiculous and he wasn’t an exception. He could try, by sheer force of will, to purge himself of his idiotic impulses but it was a lost cause, because as the old saying goes, love cannot be compelled.

 “Ya better stop cracking yer brain old man or else it’s gonna explode...” The godling suddenly spoke breaking his train of thoughts. It sat down beside him with its head hung low and began tracing something in the soil with its finger.

 “You are right my little friend. To be honest, sometimes I would like to stop thinking at all...” The vampire said and then regarded the creature more closely. “But enough about me, is there something wrong? You look troubled...”

 “I...” The godling started but its voice broke and it hiccupped, no longer able to suppress the tears.

 Regis was so taken aback by the sight, that at first he wasn’t sure how to react, but after the initial shock passed, he embraced the little form with one arm and shifted to face his small friend. But the godling refused to look at the vampire and instead clung to him, burying its face in older man’s chest. Regis let out a heavy sigh and started rocking back and forth to calm the creature. He knew everyone’s emotional endurance has its limits and suspected, that after all what happened, Percy simply met his own. And he didn’t blame him. Godlings were keen yet simple-minded beings with mischievous but also kind hearts and being exposed to so much violence, probably proved too difficult to cope with. And because of that, the vampire felt a bit guilty. But still, Percy willingly sought comfort in him, so at least he wasn’t too much afraid of him and that was definitely a good sign. So he kept rocking until the little fellow stopped crying and calmed enough to stop clinging to him so tightly.

 “Do you wish to talk about it?” Regis asked after a moment, gently patting Percy’s head.

 “Nah, I’m fine...” The godling muttered and rubbed its nose. It let go of the older man’s embrace and resumed tracing the soil with its finger.

 “As you wish my friend,” the vampire said and after a second thought he added “and I am sorry you had to witness all of those horrible things.”

 “Yeah, you really gave me creeps back there but still, it wasn’t all your fault. Ya weren’t the bad guy there...” Percy replied and then looked up. “Those bloody humans... They were responsible for the massacre. It’s not enough for them to hunt down and exterminate other races, they even go so far that they’re mindlessly killing each other. And they dare to call us the monsters?!”

 “Not all humans are bad...” Regis said and looked at two sleeping figures, causing his companion to follow his sight.

 “That’s true...” Percy replied and again tears formed in the corners of his eyes. “But it makes the whole matter more tragic, because people like those two lasses have to constantly suffer. I doubt that the girl we saved has done anything to deserve, what they did to her. Or those people in the town. They were innocent victims of the cruelty the humanity is capable of...”

 “You know Percy, that the cruelty is not the privilege of humans...”

 “Yer right, it’s not, but the humans improve themselves with it to great effect...” The godling muttered wiping its eyes, then after a moment, it motioned its head towards the women. “Do you think they’re going to be alright?”

 “Of course they are, because we are going to ensure that,” the vampire said smiling at his little friend, thus making him smile back.

 With nothing else to discuss a comfortable silence settled between them and after a few moments, Percy surrendered to the fatigue and drifted off to sleep. Making sure they were safe and his companions were fast asleep, Regis soon followed his example.

 At first, the vampire’s dream was chaotic. It begun in a series of flashbacks from the previous events, making him stir in his sleep, but before it became too restless to actually woke him up, his mind conjured a different image. Suddenly he found himself in a dark room. It was unfamiliar but surprisingly cosy - furnished daintily and with great taste, much to his liking. But what was important, he wasn’t alone there. He turned around to find Morrigan standing in front of him, with her eyes half-lidded and mischievous smile curving her lips - both challenge and invite. She stepped closer and touched his cheek.

 “I want you, Regis...” Her voice was low, dripping with want, and it sent shivers down his spine.

 He was bewitched, enchanted and his gaze flickered to her lips and back to her eyes as he felt control slip through his fingers. He realized all too well he was dreaming and he cursed his own mind for conjuring such images. He wanted to feel this moment, not in a dream but in reality. He wanted to explore her skin and find every place that actually made her melt, not just imagine where those spots would be. He wanted to discover and reveal them until he knew them all by heart. He was content with having moments like these in his dreams, and yet he was not. It was easier to dream about her when he was sure she didn’t reciprocate his feelings, but now it simply didn’t feel right.

 “No, you don’t,” he said stepping back, ignoring the confused look on her face. When he spoke again, his voice was merely a doleful whisper. “You don’t exist - not here. Not like this.”

 Her gaze fell but she tried again to close the distance and touch him. He didn’t let her.

 “It doesn’t mean this needs to stop...” Her voice was pleading now, but he only shook his head with a chuckle devoid of mirth. It was a conversation with himself.

 “It does. This is not how it should be. I want you, the real you, and not some mind-fabricated body. But I must do it properly, instead of forcing myself on you like some kind of feral beast. That is why I must keep myself from acting on my urges. So please, give me innocent dreams - ones of stolen kisses and holding hands. Anything I can wake up with without making a fool of myself...”

 “Is that really all you want?” She asked, a joyless smile on her face.

 “No, but for now, it is all I am allowed to have,” his tone left no space for discussion and she simply nodded.

 “Kind, caring and always a gentleman. You know I love that in you...” She said and vanished along with the dark room - his mind already preparing another image for him.

 He didn’t wake up and this time only smiled in his dream.

 Regis wasn’t the only one having the heated dreams, but unlike him, Morrigan didn’t have the willpower to stop them. Not that she wanted to. Instead, she was dead set on relishing the moment and was content with not questioning a single thing. She wasn’t even full aware it was only a dream. For her, it was a continuation of the events back in Tegamo. In her mind, Percy didn’t interrupt their kissing and she was moaning in the vampire’s arms, getting more and more restless. When they parted, he looked at her in wonder but the amazement slowly left his expression, replaced by something darker, that sent a surge of weakness racing through her system. A look alone shouldn’t have the power to weaken a woman’s knees and send arousal flooding through her system. It shouldn’t be bold enough, hot enough, that she could feel her sex flushing, swelling, instantly growing damp. And a man shouldn’t have the senses to detect it.

 She watched as his nostrils flared, his gaze darkening as he recognized the scent of her arousal. It wasn’t fair, because she couldn't sense his emotions in the way he could, but still some part of her liked it that way. She pulled him closer, acting on instinct and he gladly obliged. He tangled his fingers in her hair and attacked her lips again, savouring them. He pushed her backwards until her back collided with the nearest wall. Then, without breaking the kiss, he lifted her up, stepping in between her legs and she instantly wrapped them around his waist. Her mind was clouded and everything else faded away. What mattered now, was that he was there, pushing her against the wall, looking at her like she was the most precious thing he had ever seen. Their lips melted into one and she pulled him closer, her response so natural, as if her body was made to be pressed against his. A moment later he left her lips, lowering the kisses and leaving a wet trail all over her neck. It made her breathing heavy. Reaching the neckline of her dress, he stopped and caught her lips again repeating the whole process again and again, until she was nothing but a moaning mess. They were too far gone for stopping now - for her to stop. She needed this, and she knew he needed it too. Her young and inexperienced body was aching, yearning for his touch. There was a time she felt terrified and repulsed by the idea of letting a man claim her body but with Regis, it was entirely different case. She was ready to give herself wholly to him and somehow she wasn’t afraid of it. She trusted him. There were no doubts, because how could that be wrong, when it all felt so right? Of course she knew he was a vampire, a terrifying creature of legends and a monster but after a moment of thought, she realized that he also was more human, than any other man she had ever known. And she loved him for that. For being kind and caring, for his gentle voice and quick mind. His whole demeanour made her attracted to him like a moth to candlelight. She simply loved him...

 The realization lifted the veil of lust from her mind, drawing her out of her dreamscape and back to reality. She sat up, panting heavily and looked around her. The sun was rising and she noticed that she was in a place that resembled some kind of camp. Remembering the previous events she felt panic creeping into her heart, until she caught a glance of Regis and Percy sleeping nearby. The godling was leaning against the older man and the sight was so endearing, that it made her smile. Assured that she and her friends were safe, she studied her surroundings and looking to her side, she spotted a woman from earlier, her body now covered in multiple bandages. Actually she was merely a girl, surely younger than her, yet she already experienced much more in her short life than Morrigan could ever imagine. Not so long ago, the brunette would have shared her fate, if it wasn’t for Regis. And it made her sad, that they didn’t get there earlier to save her as well. Despite many bruises and a black eye, the girl was actually very pretty. She had beautiful ginger locks and a round face with full lips and small but elegant nose. Her clothes were dirty and torn but the fabric looked expensive, meaning she belonged to a wealthy family. It pained Morrigan to think what this girl was going to do, considering she was probably the sole survivor of the massacre. But she also knew Regis and was sure that just like her, he will do everything in his power to help the girl. Her gaze moved to the said vampire and suddenly she remembered her shameful dream. Her body heated up instantly and she felt dizzy and numb. Her stomach jolted and twisted in coils and she realized, that she was still wet from the arousal. She decided that she needed a walk to calm her now racing mind, so she stood up but nearly stumbled as she felt a piercing pain in her calf. She stifled a scream just in time to not wake up her companions. Then she moved carefully, mindful of her leg, until she was a few yards ahead of the camp in the open area. It wasn’t a long walk but her calf was throbbing with pain, making it impossible to keep standing, so she sat down on the grass. It was wet from the morning dew but it didn’t bother her. She was already wet from other reasons. She tried to calm her racing mind but to no avail.

“Still an early bird, I see...” A voice behind her back spoke, startling her.

 She didn’t have to look around to know it was Regis standing behind her. Still she marvelled over his ability to move without making a single sound. Another vampire thing to keep in mind.

 “I wanted to stretch my legs a little...” She replied shortly and took a deep breath at least trying to cool off her face.

 “You should not overextend yourself. The wound is not too bad, but the arrowhead hit the nerve and that would make walking a bit painful for a few days. Not to mention your body is weakened, because of the poison it had to fight off...” The vampire said, taking place beside her. That piqued her curiosity.

 “I was poisoned?” Morrigan asked and looked at him clearly surprised.

 “Was, is the right tense. Your blood is clear of it now, I made sure of that...” He suddenly trailed off and looked at her strangely.

 Their gazes locked for a brief moment and when his expression changed, her face heated up instantly, because she recognized that look. The memory of her lustful dream flooded her mind again and she lowered her head in shame, unable to look him in the eye. He sensed it. His gaze darkened, because he recognized the scent of her arousal, just like in her dream. But this time it wasn’t sensual. It was humiliating and all she wanted to do then, was to run away from his sight. And she would probably have done that, if it wasn’t for the piercing pain accompanying her every step. He also must have sensed her discomfort, because he cleared his throat and decided to distract her mind from the overwhelming shame.

 “A question, if I may ask?” The vampire said and waited for permission, and when she merely nodded, he continued. “If I recall correctly, you have done something unexpected back in the town. I admit, I still have trouble remembering all what happened, considering my mind was in an intoxicated frenzy, but I do remember one thing clearly. You somehow managed to cast a fire spell and burned that sorcerer’s hand. I know because I saw that.”

 “I suppose, I did, didn’t I?” Morrigan replied, genuinely grateful for the change of subject.

 “But how did you do that? I remember we discussed the fact, that your mother was a magic wielder but you never mentioned that you could use it as well...” He said, his tone slightly accusing.

 “Well, I didn’t mention it, because it was actually the first time it ever worked,” she said chuckling, suddenly feeling amused. “My mother spend months trying to teach me different kinds of spells and incantations, but as hard as I tried, I could never use any of them. All my efforts were in vain. I couldn’t even light a damn candle, let alone conjure a fire in my hand, so believe me, I was just as surprised as you were!”

 “Now that is an interesting concept...” Regis said more to himself than to her. His mind was already working on such a high speed, that she swore, she could almost hear the gears moving inside his head. “So you are trying to say, that you needed some kind of incentive for activating your magical powers?”

 “I suppose so...” She said not knowing how to respond.

 “But why then? Why didn’t you use the magic to protect yourself earlier? For example, when those men attacked you on the road, or back in the inn? That simply doesn’t make sense...” He said suddenly feeling very frustrated.

 He was absolutely right. It didn’t make any sense. She was in much greater danger before, but didn’t feel any power back then. So how was that situation any different? She looked at now very puzzled Regis and suddenly knew the answer. Because back in the town, she wasn’t the only one whose life was threatened. She was watching him suffer, enduring the pain they were causing him, because he didn’t want to be responsible for any harm coming to her. And she was honestly tired of constantly being the damsel in distress and deeply frustrated knowing she was utterly useless. So she acted on instincts and it all suddenly came as naturally as breathing.

 “I think, I know the answer,” she said and smiled at him. He looked at her and tilted his head, giving her the sign to continue. “It was because of you Regis.” She said and giggled when the look of surprise crossed his features. “I just couldn’t watch you suffer because of me.”

 “I see...” He said and chuckled. His features softened and their gazes locked for a brief moment. He was still a little confused, but much to her surprise, didn’t press the matter. He simply smiled and got up.

 “I believe we should get back to the camp. Our new companion will be very confused, if she wakes up there, seeing only a small godling by her side...” The vampire said and extended his arm, offering her his hand.

 She took it without a second thought and let him lift her off the ground. As soon as she was standing on her legs, he wrapped an arm around her waist, thus supporting her. If she didn’t know him better, she would have sworn he was doing it on purpose. They only began to move forward as they suddenly heard a terrified scream, which caused them to look at each other.

 “Well, I asked for it, didn’t I?” Regis chuckled scooping Morrigan up in his arms, causing her to yelp with surprise and then he ran towards the camp.

 The moment they got there, they were greeted by the very frustrated Percy trying to calm the screaming girl without success. When he spotted them, he let out a very exasperated sigh.

 “Who thought it was a good idea to leave me alone with her?!” He asked crossing his arms, annoyance evident on his face.

 “I woke up and saw Morrigan wasn’t here, so I went to search for her.” The vampire said, placing the brunette on the ground. The godling looked at her accusingly.

 “So you’re the one to blame! Damn you girl! Do something, will ya?” Percy muttered and pushed her lightly in the direction of the screaming lady.

 Her screams were terrified cries now and the sight of another strangers only seemed to upset her further. Especially the sight of Regis. And considering what she has been through, the vampire didn’t blame her. So he decided to leave both women for a while and let Morrigan handle the situation. He took Percy by the hand and tugged him along.

 Seeing the man and the strange creature were gone, the girl calmed down a little and focused on Morrigan. She was still scared but the sight of another woman was a bit comforting. Her cries subsided, leaving her hiccupping and gasping for air.

 “It’s alright. You have nothing to fear of. You’re safe now...” The brunette said, her voice quiet and gentle. She moved closer and sat down in a safe distance, not wanting to scare the girl off.

 “Who... Who are you?” The girl asked, her voice shaking.

 “My name is Morrigan. And those two you saw, were my friends. You don’t have to be afraid of them. They saved you and brought you here.”

“Here?! To the Black Hand’s camp?! Are you mad?!” She suddenly shouted, clearly mortified.

 “Calm down, the camp is save now...” The brunette tried to explain but the girl interrupted her.

 “How could it be safe?! They could come back here in any moment!”

 “Trust me, they won’t. Because not a single member of the Black Hand remained to threaten us...”

 “What do you mean? I don’t understand...”

 “They...” Morrigan started and her voice trailed off.

 She couldn’t just tell the girl that Regis got rid of them. She would never believe that single man took down the entire hansa. It would require further explaining, thus revealing his true nature and that was simply out of the question. The brunette was more than sure the girl would ultimately freak out, if she was to learn that the stranger she knew nothing about, was a terrifying blood-sucking creature of legends. She knew, she would be, if she was in her place. So without a better option, Morrigan decided to bend the truth a little for now.

 “They were all killed by some kind of monster. It came from the woods, attracted by the smell of blood. The beast butchered them one by one and then went back where it came from.” The brunette explained, hoping the girl would buy the story.

 “A beast?! What kind of beast? And how do you know that?” The ginger haired girl asked sounding a little suspicious.

 “We saw everything from afar. The beast was terrifying. It had a large set of claws and sharp teeth. We never saw anything like that. It was incredibly fast and cruel. It tore their bodies as if they were mere ragdolls. Actually you were lucky to came out of it alive. The beast probably thought you were already dead. After all, when we found you, you were barely breathing.”

 “And what about Lysander? Is he dead too?” The girl asked and Morrigan stopped herself in the last moment from admitting right away. That would be too suspicious.

 “Who?” The brunette asked instead, feigning ignorance.

 “Lysander Delacroix - the Black Hand’s leader and a very dangerous man...”

“You mean the sorcerer?” Morrigan asked still not dropping the act and when the girl simply nodded, she continued “yes, he fought fiercely but eventually lost the battle and was killed along the rest of his men.”

 “I see...” The girl said, sounding surprisingly sad. That piqued Morrigan’s interest.

 “You knew him?” She asked trying to sound sympathetic.

 “Yes, I did. He was... He was my fiancé...” The ginger haired girl replied and suddenly started crying, leaving Morrigan completely speechless.

Chapter 9 - The bloodlust

 Regis, Morrigan and Percy ran as fast as they could, wanting to find out what was going on in Tegamo. However just few yards ahead of the town the vampire suddenly stopped, causing his companions to stop as well and look at him questioningly.

 “What’s wrong?” Morrigan asked and when he didn’t respond she touched his shoulder and shook him lightly. She couldn’t quite read his face but noticed a slight tremble of his fingers and it made her worried. Instinctively she reached out and grabbed his hand, causing him to finally look at her.

 “Blood...” He whispered almost inaudibly and squeezed her hand.

 “You... You can smell it from that far?” She asked surprised, making a mental note to question him later about other abilities of his kind.

 “Yes...” He said, his voice hoarse. “And I can smell a lot of it...”

 “It means trouble...” The godling joined the conversation looking very worried. “But what’s wrong with ya? I thought you said you don’t drink it anymore...”

 The vampire took a deep, steadying breath and smiled weakly. “Indeed, I don’t. But if I recall correctly, I told you what effect it has on my kind. The smell of blood brings out something primal in all of us. And the amount of it that I am able to sense now, is enough to drive insane even the most composed mind, let alone a former addict like me.” He said and suddenly remembered his and Geralt’s visit at Tesham Mutna not so long ago. The memory caused him to wince involuntarily but the warmth of Morrigan’s hand still resting in his own, gave him enough strength to compose himself quickly. Then he continued, “I can control myself just fine when I am exposed to small amounts of blood but this... I simply cannot vouch for myself.”

 “But now you are calm” the godling insisted.

 “That is because I am far enough from the source but I assure you that my mind is already clouding and my senses are getting overwhelmed. Once we got too close I am afraid that I will lose control...”

 “But we can’t just stand here and do nothing. Something bad is going on there and we should check it out. Maybe someone needs help...” Morrigan said suddenly very agitated. Regis studied her face for a moment, almost like he was trying to find an answer for some silent question of his. Then he sighed.

 “That much blood means massive manslaughter, proving someone or something gravely dangerous attacked the town. Also the smell is too fresh and intensive, meaning the danger has not yet passed. If I were alone, I wouldn’t hesitate but having you with me is too much of a risk.”

 “But doing nothing is just wrong! Besides you promised earlier you will protect us in case of any trouble,” the brunette protested.

 “Yes, I did but I cannot protect you from one thing...”

 “Which is?”

 “Myself...” The vampire replied shortly and letting go of her hand, moved a few steps ahead of them. He clearly was torn between what he should and what he wanted to do.

 Morrigan knew what he meant. She saw him in his vampiric form and still was quite shaken by the memory of it. He was scary enough when he was fully conscious and she imagined how terrifying he could be if he ever lost control. Still, after all what happened so far, she somehow believed that no matter what, he wouldn’t hurt her. Why she was so sure of it was beyond her but she decided to trust her gut feeling. And so not giving any of it a second thought, she rushed ahead, quickly leaving her surprised companions behind her. She sprinted as fast as she could, knowing they would follow but not wanting to get caught until they reach the town. She heard her name accompanied by a desperate plea and then followed by some curses but she refused to look behind and stubbornly pushed forward. She knew she had made a mistake when she saw a man rushing in her direction, panic evident on his face. He was running for his life when something hit him from behind and he fell on the ground. But before she reached the man, a dark mist engulfed her and she felt strong arms around herself, pushing her off the road. It was happening so fast that she barely had time to register the whole thing and suddenly found herself looking at very annoyed Regis pinning her against the tree.

 “What the...” She writhed trying to protest but he quickly covered her mouth with his hand.

 “Shhh... Be quiet,” he commanded and looked at the road.

 Morrigan stilled instantly and when he released her, she followed his gaze and saw two men approaching the one lying on the ground, an arrow sticking out of his body. He was still alive and started to crawl, trying to get away. But then, one of the two stepped on his palm and drawing out a knife, quickly yanked his head and slit his throat. After that they cackled loudly and walked away. The brunette looked at her companion. She felt ashamed because if it wasn’t for him she wouldn’t end too well.

 “I’m sorry...” She whispered not knowing what to say.

 The vampire didn’t respond. Instead he stood motionless, still looking at the road. She tried to meet his gaze but he ignored her. She could tell he was angry but there was no going back now. She wanted to say something but heard a rustling behind her. Startled, she turned around abruptly only to find Percy walking out of the bush. Regis didn’t even move.

 “Damn you lass! You surely know how to cause trouble...” The godling said disapprovingly. “And now we have bigger problem. When the old man chased after you, he ordered me to hide in the forest and follow you from there and guess what? I noticed that those men, whoever they are, have actually surrounded the area. They have at least two camps here and are patrolling the forest with dogs. I narrowly escaped being caught. In short, we are literally screwed...”

 “No we’re not!” Morrigan protested. “I know it’s my fault but we will figure something out...”

 “Then better think quickly...” Percy replied with a concerned voice and when she looked at him questioningly, he motioned with his head at Regis.

 The vampire was looking in their direction now but his eyes were absent. His skin was livid, bulging veins were showing all over his face and Morrigan noticed a slight tremor pulsing through his fingers. She wanted to reach out and touch his face when suddenly they heard a scream followed by cries of pain. The vampire’s eyes focused instantly and he looked ahead. Then he grabbed the brunette’s wrist and moved forward, dragging her along.

 “Stay... Close...” He uttered, his voice low and hoarse and feeling the strong and almost painful grip of his hand, she followed obediently with Percy keeping close behind her.

 They reached the back of one buildings and moved along the wall, careful to avoid any patrols. Morrigan tried desperately to remain calm but the further they moved the louder the screams were, causing her blood run cold. They jumped from one building to another, walking quickly but carefully. Regis knew exactly when to stop and which way to go and she suspected, that it had something to do with his vampiric nature, making his senses acutely sharpened. Once they were close the town square, they noticed a group of people standing in front of a burning building. Suddenly Morrigan felt very ill and found it hard not to throw up, when the smell of the burning flesh reached her nose. But that wasn’t the worst. Those bandits or whoever they were turned the place into a blood bath. Bodies were scattered everywhere, bloodied and mutilated. She noticed that most of them were men but she didn’t have time to dwell on it because she heard another scream. Again she looked at the group of people and caught a sight of a woman laying on the ground between them. Her heart sunk at the sight. They were raping her and each time she tried to scream she was beaten. Morrigan felt hot tears burning her eyes. With her free hand she reached out and touched Regis’ arm. He looked at her, his face a mixture of pain and anger.

 “Help her, please...” She managed to say, her voice thick with tears. For a moment he looked like he was fighting a mental battle but then they heard another painful cry and something inside him snapped.

 “Stay... Here...” He growled and vanished leaving a trail of black mist in his wake.

 Morrigan embraced Percy and watched in horror as the mist surrounded the men and from time to time a familiar clawed beast emerged from it, slicing the bodies of the aggressors. They tried to fight back but to no avail. He was simply too fast for them. The godling hid its head in her chest clearly overwhelmed by this carnage but Morrigan, although horrified, found herself unable to look away. The brunette was somehow mesmerized, her eyes following every movement of the dangerous creature which happened to be her closest friend. She was so absorbed by the sight, that she failed to notice someone approaching her from behind. Her hair was yanked and she wanted to scream but felt a sharp blade being pressed to her throat and stilled instantly.

 “Don’t move or I will kill you...” A low voice whispered into her ear and she cursed herself for being careless again. Despite the situation, she was honestly tired of constantly being the damsel in distress. She hugged Percy tightly, partly hiding him inside her cloak. The godling took a hint and clung to her side.

 “Seeing that you didn’t change into anything as well as didn’t fight me back, I assume you’re not a vampire like him. I didn’t know those beasts were also keeping pets.” The man spoke again and loosened the grip on her hair and instead began stroking it. “You know... With that inhuman speed and force he is playing dirty with my men and I don’t like it. The game should be fair, don’t you think... Pet?” He paused for a moment nuzzling her hair and inhaling deeply, causing her to flinch. “Come now pet, it’s time for us to change the rules...” He said, his tone merry and almost maniacal as he pushed her forward.

Meanwhile Regis has fallen into a trance. His vision went red and all he could think of was killing again and again. He stopped for a moment and looked at the pools of blood surrounding him. The scent was so overwhelming that it clouded his mind causing him to forget what he was doing and why. Another wave of men surrounded him and he was about to resume his task when he noticed a fireball being thrown into his direction. He avoided it easily and then heard a voice.

 “You, beast! Now that I have your attention, you better play nice or I will gut your pet like a fish!”

 The vampire looked puzzled for a moment, when something inside his mind screamed, causing him to regain a part of his consciousness. He recognized Morrigan and seeing the blade pressed to her throat, his blood boiled into pure rage. He was about to jump into their direction when a soft whimper coming from the brunette stopped him. A small amount of blood trailed down her neck. Seeing this the vampire let out a feral growl.

 “That’s better...” The man chuckled and stroked the knife against her cheek. With a free hand he touched her neck and examined the small cut he left there. Then his hand moved lower, until it brushed her breast ever so lightly, making her wince. He smiled darkly and withdrew it, looking at the drops of her blood on his fingertips and then licked them clean. “Such beautiful creature, isn’t she? It would be a shame to ruin her smooth and delicate skin, don’t you think?”

 “Leave... Her...” The vampire growled baring his fangs. He was barely controlling himself.

 “Oh, and what about the fun? You played with my men and it would only be fair if I play with your pet now. After all, sharing is caring and I want us to become friends... Still I am a bit offended, you know? She seem to not like me playing with her...” He said and to prove the point, he squeezed her breast causing her to wince once more. “You see? Absolutely rude. But don’t worry, I’m sure we’ll get along in no time.” He smiled serenely but his eyes held a look of a madman.

 Regis didn’t know what to do. With the rage boiling up inside him and the scent of blood clouding his mind, the vampire found it hard to focus and think clearly. He knew that with that knife so close to her skin, the man would slit her throat before he even had time to reach them. To his own dismay, he found himself in a stalemate situation. He was so distracted that he failed to notice that the man gave some sort of sign. And moment later someone attacked him from behind, piercing a sword through his chest. Still, his body was too agitated to properly register pain. It only angered him further.

 “Interesting...” The man spoke, absentmindedly stroking Morrigan’s hair. “A mortal wound for a human means nothing to you. I heard stories about your kind but to see it for myself... Well, at least you do feel pain, right?” He asked and gave another sign to his men, causing one of them to grab a sword piercing the vampire’s body and twist its blade inside him. Regis growled in response.

 “You’re playing so nicely now that I’m sure we will become friends in no time!” The man smiled sweetly but then his face fell. Poking his own forehead he said, “but where are my manners? I want us to be friends but I didn’t introduce myself, did I? Tsk, tsk, tsk... How very rude of me! My name is Lysander and this is my hansa. Or, what was left of it... Anyway, we are called the Black Hand and you my friend, has interrupted our celebrating. And we are going to punish you for that...” He said and snapped his fingers, again giving his men a sign.

 Soon another blade pierced Regis’ body and was twisted inside him, making him fall on his knees. Morrigan was watching helplessly as her friend bore the pain they were causing him. She knew he could easily kill them all but he restrained himself from it because of her. Because he didn't want to be responsible for any harm coming to her. She was deeply frustrated knowing she was utterly useless. She flinched at the sound of the vampire’s groan as another blade was driven through his body and she felt her own anger building up inside her. She remembered her mother’s teachings and focused. She murmured the words of elder speech, that her mother taught her and repeated them like a mantra, pouring her all will into it, until she felt a heat gathering in her right palm. Then she grabbed Lysander’s hand. The man was taken by surprise and the sudden burning sensation caused him to yank his hand and drop the blade. Equally surprised Morrigan used it as an opportunity to free herself and run away from him. Unfortunately, one of the men saw this and drawing his bow, shot her in the leg, causing her to fall over. He didn’t have chance to take another arrow however, because a moment later he fell dead choking on his own blood. Regis also used his chance and now was going to take out his barely contained anger on them all.

 Before Lysander had time to properly register what was going on, a furious vampire pinned him down to the ground. The man tried to fight back but the iron grip of the beast’s claws on his arms, made it impossible for him to move. But he wasn’t going to give up so easily, because he too had an ace up his sleeve and soon a great force hit the vampire’s body, tearing him off the man and driving him through the wall of the nearest building. Lysander got up then and seeing the massacre around him, angrily gritted his teeth. When Regis managed to get out of the building, he barely avoided another blow. When the dust has settled, he looked at his opponent. The vampire felt himself going stiff and knew his mind was playing him tricks when for a brief moment instead of Lysander’s face, he saw someone entirely else. A ghost from the past. A face that still haunted his dreams from time to time, with the memory of the storm at Stygga castle and his would-be demise. The one that left him with a permanent distrust towards the magic and its users. The sorcerer Vilgefortz. Regis knew the man was long dead and his fear of him was ridiculous but still the mere memory of his face was enough to let the panic creep into his heart. Lysander didn’t know why his opponent was suddenly acting so strange but used his temporary distraction to strike another blow.

 In the meantime, Percy released himself from Morrigan’s embrace and examined the arrow sticking out of her calf. The blood was oozing from the wound.

 “That doesn’t look very well...” He said grimacing over it.

 “I don’t care, just remove it!” She said through gritted teeth, trying her best to ignore the piercing pain.

 The godling nodded and with one quick movement, removed the arrowhead from her flesh. She yelped suddenly feeling very weak. The wound was bleeding harder so she tore down a piece of her cloak and tied it around her leg. With the help of Percy she got up but found it hard to stay on her feet, fighting the overwhelming urge to collapse. Every step was causing her pain but she gritted her teeth and kept moving. Somehow Regis was losing and although she didn’t know what was going on, she needed to help him. She grabbed a sword laying on the ground and commanding Percy to stay behind, she moved towards the sorcerer.

 Lysander was throwing the vampire from one wall to another, using a magical force and he was about to strike another blow when he heard footsteps behind his back. He pivoted just in time to avoid being stabbed. It caused Morrigan to lose her footing and fall forward. He smirked and tearing the blade from her hand, grabbed her hair and pulled her to him. She sagged in his grip, trying to relieve the pressure on her scalp but he was too strong for her. Her attempts only amused him.

 “Struggle. I like it when you fight...” He whispered into her ear. Then he leaned down and bit her neck eliciting a small cry from her.

 With the corner of his eye Lysander saw that the vampire managed to get up again. The sorcerer held up the sword he took from the brunette and channelling it with his power, he shot it straight into Regis’ chest. The force was so great that the blade somehow pinned his body to the wall and got stuck there.

 “Persistent, aren’t you?” He chuckled suddenly feeling very smug. Then he moved his attention to the girl. “Now, I will take care of you, pet...” And saying this he turned her around to face him and twisted her arms behind her back. She tried to wiggle and kick him but to no avail. He smiled and then lowered his head to kiss her.

 Regis was sore and a bit stunned by the constant beating, his mind clouded again but when he saw the sorcerer forcing himself over Morrigan, something inside him snapped. All fear was forgotten and instead replaced by the utter rage. He supported his hands on both his sides and letting out an inhuman growl, he tore himself off the wall, leaving the sword still stuck in the stone. Ignoring the pain and the hole in his chest, he lashed out at the man. And before Lysander had time to react, the vampire yanked the sorcerer’s head and sank his fangs deep into his neck, no longer being able to resist the bloodlust. Regis growled in delight as the long-awaited velvety taste filled his mouth. He instantly felt his strength coming back and his wounds begging to heal but all the while his sanity was drifting away, leaving only hunger for more. When the first shock passed Morrigan reached him and grabbed his arm.

 “Regis, stop! You shouldn’t do it! Please, stop!” She begged shaking him, trying to tear him off the sorcerer but he didn’t listen.

 Horrified she noticed that with each passing moment the more light was escaping Lysander’s eyes and she knew he was dead when his body stilled and eyes became clouded. Only then the vampire released him and tossed his body aside like a mere ragdoll. Then he looked at her and she used her all willpower not to scream. His red eyes were shining with madness as he regarded her hungrily. She tried to step back but it only angered him and moving quickly he forcibly pushed her against the nearest wall. The impact caused Morrigan to hit her head, making her dizzy for a moment. The vampire pinned her with his own weight and studied her closely. He lifted her chin exposing her neck and traced the small wound left there by Lysander’s knife with his own sharp claw. She hissed as she felt the blood trailing down her throat again. The vampire watched it mesmerized for a moment, before he pressed his lips to the wound and sucked it. Then using his tongue, he followed the trail of blood as far as the neckline of her dress allowed. His movements were harsh and frantic. She shivered trying to suppress a moan at the feel of him exploring the crevices of her neck. It felt so wonderful and so wrong at the same time. Still, the feeling of his lips on her skin was strangely familiar and for a moment her thoughts travelled back to the vivid dream she had, when they were staying at the inn. It made her wonder if it really was only a dream. Meanwhile Regis continued to lick her soft neck until the wound was no longer bleeding and not a drop of blood remained. Suddenly he reached for her lips, and taken off guard, Morrigan had no time to react. At first she was so overwhelmed by the sensation that she didn’t protest immediately but after a moment she regained her consciousness and tried to push him off, fighting to get away. It caused him to growl and break the kiss. She studied his features and noticed a feral look crossing his face. Somehow his vampiric form frightened her less now but still she longed to see his normal self, so she decided to try to calm him. She placed her hands on both sides of his face and stroked his cheeks gently.

 “Regis please, you’re not being yourself. Calm down...” She begged, tears forming in her eyes.

 The vampire stilled instantly when he felt her hands on his face. The warm gesture startled him and something inside him stirred. He wanted her. He wanted her so badly. To touch her body and make it his but suddenly he found himself unable to do so. The sight of her tears pained him and he tried desperately to remember why she was so important to him. Seeing his distress Morrigan considered it a sign that he was finally regaining consciousness and she decided to push further.

 “Come back to me...” She said hugging him and leaned her head on his chest.

 And it was only then when his senses calmed and the veil of intoxication left his mind. Suddenly he remembered everything and felt himself instantly calming down thus causing him to revert to his normal self. He looked down at Morrigan and embraced her lightly but as the adrenaline wore off, he felt very exhausted and found it hard to stand on his feet. When the brunette felt him leaning on her and wrapping his arms around her, she looked up and seeing his face she smiled happily.

 “You’re back!” She exclaimed and before she had time to consider what she was doing, she kissed him.

 It was too much for the vampire and soon his legs gave him out making them both fall on their knees, their lips still joined. His mind went blank and his whole world narrowed just to the sensation of her lips against his. They parted for a moment, both breathing hard as their gazes met. Then he shifted and without warning, his mouth sealed over hers again, stealing her breath. It took a few soft licks of his tongue for her to part her lips. Then he cupped the back of her neck and tilted his head, deepening the kiss. This time she didn’t suppress the moan, making him groan in response. They might have lost their sanity in that mind-blowing moment if Percy didn’t interrupt them.

 “Alright you two, stop the sloppy exchange of saliva! You’re making me sick!” The godling exclaimed grimacing at them. “Also I believe it’s not a good place for making out. Pull yourself together, geez...”

 For a moment they both looked bewildered and suddenly felt very awkward. Still, they got up and was about to join the godling but when Morrigan tried to take a step forward a piercing pain shot in jolts up and down her leg, causing her to stumble and nearly black out. Fortunately Regis was quick enough to catch her.

 “What’s wrong?” He asked clearly concerned.

 “It’s her leg. When she used that trick with fire and tried to escape the madman, one of his men shot her with the arrow. She ordered me to took it off but it seems something is still not right...” Percy said looking equally concerned.

 The vampire looked down and noticed a blood stain on her dress, then he moved his gaze to her face and found her barely conscious. Despite the fatigue and calmness of his mind, Regis found it hard to focus, the scent of blood, although not so intense now, still irritated his senses. He picked Morrigan up in his arms and turned to face the godling suddenly remembering something.

 “You said earlier, that those men had a camp in the forest, right?” He asked.

 “Yeah, right. But you really think, it’s a good idea, old man? And what if some of them are still there?” Percy asked sceptically.

 “Then I will get rid of them. Trust me, even being so exhausted, I can take out a few simple bandits. Besides, we both agree we can’t stay here and most importantly I must examine her wound.” The vampire explained patiently.

 “Fair enough...I will scout ahead,” the godling said and they were about to move on, when they heard something.

 “Did you hear that?” Percy asked looking around.

 “Of course I did. It was a painful moan...”

 “One of the men?” The godling moved closer to the vampire and looked at him expectantly.

 He didn’t respond however and instead went in the direction of the sound. The godling followed close behind and soon they reached the cinders of the previously burning building. Then they noticed the body of a woman lying on the ground, stirring slightly and moaning in pain. She was unconscious but very much alive. Regis came closer and examined her briefly. Her beaten body was dark with bruises. He still barely remembered what happened here but her sight brought up a memory of Morrigan begging him to help that woman. He looked at the brunette resting in his arms, now also unconscious and gritted his teeth.

 “Fuck!” He swore loudly in human-like manner. And that wasn’t something he did very often.

A bit of gore and a bit of drama mixed with a slight fluff. I admit that I got carried away. Anyway, I hope you like it guys and that some of you are still out there :P

Also I marked all chapters with a tag #TMHM to allow better access.

TMHM, formerly The Man And His Machine, will embark on an Eastern Canadian tour in August in support of their full-length debut Stage Names. The record is scheduled to hit stores on August 17; pre-orders are available now here. 8/05 – Saskatoon, SK | Barf House 8/12 – Winnipeg, MB | The Pyramid 8/13 – Thunder Bay, ON | The Apollo 8/17 – Windsor, ON | Dominion House 8/18 – Toronto, ON |Coalition…

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