Just a Sip (Cori)

[Veranda Kingsford]

Thus far the training Veranda was undergoing was solid enough. She didn’t make any large mistakes, and she felt she was learning quickly. Whenever Coriander and Julien had something to do that didn’t require Veranda’s attention, she’d wander about the woods, testing out her new physical strength and gaining control of that. The first night of running through the woods had been tough, but after that mastering her body again had become easy. She could now dart between trees and over obstacles with great ease, able to leap astounding lengths and run with high speeds. She had mastered her ability to move like a vampire in a short time. What she did when running about through the woods now was try to do it quietly. She didn’t want to sound like some bear stomping its way by. And she was fiercely jealous of Cori’s ability to move so silently, and wanted to master it herself.

Tonight she had grown bored and restless, sitting in her room and rearranging her collection of knives this way and that on her bed. She still only carried the one blade Cori permitted her to carry on the first night. The rest she set aside till she felt she was ready to carry them. Including the sword Julien gave her. After cleaning and sharpening every blade to a deadly point she sat on her bed, looking about her room with a small sigh. She supposed she could go bother Julien, but she was sort of tired of the constant company of the two vampires currently. What she wanted was…well…to explore she supposed. But Veranda hadn’t stepped foot in the town since their arrival. She wasn’t sure how she’d be around people since Merovech, but after a while she grew confident in herself that she’d be fine. People were people. This time she stole blood instead of treasures, that was all. And she didn’t think she’d have a hard time suppressing any hunger. How hard could it be to be around people?

Veranda dressed herself and after a moment or two of thinking she tiptoed her way out of her room and out of the house. She paused outside the house, waiting for one of the male vampires to come out. When neither did she hurried off into the woods. Halfway she stopped and listened, wondering if any of the two were following. After a while she figured even if they were they’d be quieter than her, so she continued on her way to the town.

Upon arrival she was nearly amazed by the end of the night activity that was going around. People closing shops, cleaning, hustling home to bed. Veranda wandered about, taking in the sights and smells and sounds that greeted her new senses, all the while looking delighted. It reminded her a bit of Mero, and she felt an urge to steal something, anything really, mostly from habit. She didn’t really need to steal anymore. The treasures were useless now. She reflected back to a hollow tree back in Mero, which was her hiding stash. It was packed full of jewels and valuables, and she’d go and take some out when pickings were slim. She wondered if anyone would be lucky enough to find that stash. Perhaps. And perhaps they’ll be hanged because the guards thought it was them who stole the precious gems of the nobles.

Veranda continued her explorations, seeming to take joy in every little thing. She purposely gave the pub a wide berth though, not desiring to test her will power so much. She was fine in the society of people. The same might not be said of drunks. The nightlife began to settle down to nothing, the streets growing quiet, and Veranda moved from the streets to the alleys, a place she called home when in Merovech. The alleys gave her nothing but the occasional snoring homeless man, and she found a crate to perch on for a while, admiring the moon. It was a lovely night, and she enjoyed watching the stars twinkle, much like any girl she supposed. She also figured she should be getting back soon. She didn’t know how well the boys would like to hear of her travels through town. If they thought anything like herself they’d be uneasy about the idea.

She glanced to the right, seeing a man approach. His walk was smooth and graceful, and he seemed to be looking at the sky with the same fascination as herself. The wind was against her, so he was quite close by the time the thick smell of alcohol hit her nose. Veranda actually recoiled when the smell of strong ale hit her. The man was a good walker when drunk it seemed, and had she seen him stumbling she’d have run the other way for one reason. Her willpower would simply crumble, as it was already doing now. If Julien, or even Cori were standing by her side, she could probably dismiss it with her head down, but that wasn’t the case. Veranda inhaled sharply of the scent, the ale smelled so sweet, or perhaps that was his blood? She swallowed dryly. The man paused before her, as if just noticing the pretty woman on the crate. He gave her a smile and leaned forward, invading her personal space.

“Hello, my lady.” He breathed, the smell of alcohol even stronger on his breath. Veranda’s hand shot up to her nose, covering it. Gods how he reeked! Veranda made no answer, just squirming a bit uncomfortably on the crate. But that smell…it was so enticing…

Go on… A voice deep inside her whispered. Its just one man. And it’s just a drink. How you enjoy drinking. It was your only escape, remember? Yes, she remembered. The nights in the pub, drink after drink, until she felt too numb to feel anything. It was always so pleasant. But no! The last time she was drunk it had worsened the situation she put herself into. She had worse self control as a vampire now than as a human. She couldn’t be reckless like before, there was no Julien to pull her out of the fire, only a Julien to pull into the fire.

But you felt so alive that night didn’t you? Didn’t you enjoy ripping them to shreds? Every one of them? They screamed for mercy and their blood flew! How their blood flew! Veranda bit her lower lip, crossing her legs, uncrossing them. It had been so easy! So easy to be the powerful one then! So why did she feel so weak now?

“Are you enjoying this night?” The drunkard breathed, blasting his hot, ale soaked breath into her face. Veranda felt more of that delicate willpower she worked so hard to create melt away quickly. She gave him no answer, just slid off the crate and moved to hurry away. She had to hurry away. Had to get away from him before whatever was left of her sense was gone. Why did she go without Julien? Why did she think she was ready to be out in public? She avoided the pub as if all drunks were to be locked up in the pub alone. As if they didn’t stumble their way home or into the reaches of someone like her.

“Hey, where are you going?” The man said, catching her arm gently. It arrested her despite the fact that she could throw him off easily. “I’m just here to talk. I won’t bite.” He said, then laughed merrily. Veranda wasn’t afraid of him biting. She was afraid of her biting. Her eyes fell to a pulsing artery in his neck. It pumped with his heart, and pumped with that sweet alcohol. That substance that made it all go away. The pain and thoughts and fears…

Veranda swallowed again, eyes wide and fixated on that spot. It throbbed in its place, as if beckoning to her. His heart beat was drowning out all other sounds, all other thoughts. Maybe just a little sip…just a little one. She could stop herself before right? She could now. Just a sip…

She stepped towards him, inhaling his scent again. To make it all go away…it was only a bite away. Just a bite and a sip. She opened her mouth, sharp fangs glittering in the moonlight. The man didn’t seem to take notice. He was eying the sky again, as if he forgot she was there. Just a sip was all it would take…just a sip…

[Deleted]

Coriander had plenty to do since they had recently arrived here not too long ago. And yet, the vampire was still making his rounds almost every night for a hunt. To mutilate some poor sorry soul so bad that they'd be better off getting buried in an unmarked grave. He was hoping to spread fear and chaos and panic. But he had to keep tabs on Julien and even more so, the young man's love interest. Veranda. The young woman had a promising future as a vampire with the right teachings. And she had been doing well enough. But Coriander was waiting for her to slip up.

Not so he'd have an excuse to kill her of course, but perhaps he'd be able to teach her a thing or two for his and Julien's sake. She had, after all, been much of the reason they had to leave their last place of dwelling in the last kingdom. But Coriander was starting to like Avaleur. So he wasn't looking forward to leaving this place at all for now. But where was he now? In the wine cellar of the condemned house. Resting in the complete darkness. Though being as old as he was, he was up before the sun went down.

So he sat by himself in the dark and listened to ever little sound going on through the house. Every little rodent. Insect. Steps... He blinked and lifted his head t hear soft footsteps overhead. Definitely not Julien. He stood up and heard the steps leave the house before he went upstairs himself, finding it to be dark outside and the scent of Veranda was the last one out. He narrowed his gaze and moved his black-clad body towards a boarded up window, catching sight of her before she disappeared into the dark.

He  thought for the moment about waking up Julien, but he was curious to see what she would be doing out by herself. In fact, he was more or less surprised at why she wasn't with the pupil of his. He would most likely be following her around instead, right? Coriander cleared his mind and moved towards the door after ten minutes or so. He'd find her by scent, follow her and see what she was up to. And for her sake, hopefully it wasn't going to involve getting drunk or causing a mass amount of deaths.

The Boogeyman followed and at a great gap in distance. He couldn't see her directly, but he knew where she was. And when the city came to be the next place he found himself in, he did well to stay extremely hidden from view, watching her every move from around a corner, from the shadows or where have you. But she found herself with a jolly, drunken man by the time Coriander had been ready to come for her. But he stayed and watched. He saw the look in her eyes and how she seemed to unconsciously move her mouth towards his throat.

The man in black moved swiftly and soundlessly towards her, his pale eyes holding disappointment in them for her action of drinking from a drunk man. And for not being out with her teacher of all things. He'd need to have a talk with Julien afterwards on keeping a closer eye or ear on his pupil. This was how really bad mistakes happened and how people found out about them far more easily than they should. Coriander clenched his jaw, coming up to her and grabbing her around the waist with one arm and disappearing into a dark ally close by.

He didn't look happy. One of the few expressions his face would show was annoyance. Another was pure anger. But his face wasn't wrinkled in anger. He stood with his back to the wall, holding her back against his chest as he peered out of the alleyway towards the man, who was probably going to assume she teleported or something. But he wasn't going to let go of Veranda. Not until she noticed what she had been about to do. But he spoke to her in case she was freaking out over someone grabbing her. Just to make her realize who had a hold of her now.

You're quite the disappointment, child... A pity you would want to make history repeat itself... He spoke with that deadly, monotone voice. I such a way it would stop anyone in their tracks or send shivers up the spine. But it was only used to identify who he was as he held onto her.

[Veranda Kingsford]

Veranda’s fang had actually touched the man’s skin, was ready to pierce it and release that ale soaked blood, when suddenly his warmth was gone, his scent faded, and that heartbeat dulled. Cori had his back to the wall and was peeking at the bewildered drunk man before Ver even realized fully that she had been pulled from the drunken man.

The man, meanwhile, looked around, surprised at the sudden disappearance of the pretty woman. But in his drunken state he could accept anything, and simply shrugged his shoulders and walked on, whistling a merry tune, completely unaware of how incredibly lucky he really was. Veranda didn’t seem to give notice to his whistling. She looked across the alley, slightly dazed. Wait, what the hell happened? She recognized both voice and scent at the same time when Coriander spoke, and also just registered he still kept his arm about her, keeping her pressed against him. Probably a good idea. Had it been a few months earlier she’d have fought at him to get at the drunk man like some animal. Now though, now she only reached up, gently taking hold of Cori’s sleeve, allowing the situation to fully sink in.

She almost messed everything up.

Again.

A wave of shame flooded her, tears springing out in her eyes. She shook a bit, trembled against the ancient vampire. She didn’t have to look into his eyes to see his disappointment. And Julien! Julien would be disappointed too! That made it worse. She lowered her head, hair falling in front of her face, tears hitting the ground.

“I’m sorry…” She said softly, thought she didn’t expect Cori to really accept the apology, even if it was sincere. She damn near screwed everything up again! It was as if she couldn’t do anything right. It was an old, bitter feeling. One she was well acquainted to since early childhood, and she hated it. She lifted her free hand to wipe away those annoying tears. Gods, she never cried before, and she felt like lately it was all she wanted to do. She still kept her other hand latched on Cori’s arm, as if she were afraid to let the Boogeyman go.

“I just want to see town life again. I was stupid to think I could just stroll through.” She muttered, before she turned in Cori’s grip, facing him, but not looking up at him. Shame kept her gaze low.

“I won’t leave the house again. I promise.” She said softly, sounding a bit sad. She wasn’t really promising Cori though. She was promising Julien. Because she wouldn’t break a promise to Julien. And picturing the look of disappointment on his face was so heartbreaking! “He’ll be so disappointed too…” She murmured, speaking mostly to herself, speaking about Julien. Fresh tears slid down her cheeks and she wiped them away, feeling and looking irritated about their very existence.

[Deleted]

Coriander held onto the woman solid and tight, making sure she couldn't get away from him, but not crushing her either. Yes, he was a little upset, mostly annoyed, but this wasn't going to ruin his night. He was sure that with a bit of talking to, he'd set her straight. He was still going to have a talk with Julien of course, but he figured he'd put a dent in her before Julien did. His pupil might just sit there and comfort her and tell her he'd teach her better. So Coriander would have to be the bad guy in this.

His free hand felt the cool wall behind him, his pale eyes looking down at the top of her head as he held her, thoughts roaming through his skull for what he'd say to her after mentioning his disappointment. The Boogeyman would have no remorse for tears and no pity for her mistakes. If she was going to be within their little circle, she was going to have to face her own monsters and learn to accept everything. She was going to have to improve her weaknesses and resist more than she thought.

Coriander or Julien weren't going to be around all of the time to be able to babysit her for eternity. And if she did actually accomplish to slaughter a whole city or most of it, Coriander would end her life and have to move on. Whether Julien approved or not. Because Coriander knew his pupil wouldn't kill her. At least not without being forced somehow. Cori leaned his head back slightly, listening to her cry as she grasped his arm. He let her cry and waited for her to speak. She apologized. He didn't care for apologies either way and she was right to think so.

He looked down at her again as she tried to explain herself, but Coriander was ready with his own response. He didn't move as he spoke. He just stared at her. Julien will be greatly disappointed, I take it. You've got to learn that you're not human anymore, Veranda. You wanted to be this. You cannot just go strolling around as if you're normal. Because you obviously haven't mastered control yet. I was expecting more out of you and I'm sure Julien was too. he narrowed his eyes dangerously.

He liked rubbing salt in the wound. Just last week, he had met a vampire that was afraid to death of him. Poked a bit of fun at the poor bastard. And he had kind of reminded Coriander about Veranda in a way. Young and naive. Had Veranda been his own pupil, he would have had a whole lot to say to her. But he would only say so much before he left the rest to Julien. In hopes that the young man would actually have a straight and true talk with her. But that's why Coriander would talk to him first. Or at least watch the events unfold when he brought her home and insisted they all talk together.

I don't enjoy being some sort of nursemaid, child. he stated and watched as she turned in his arm, her chest against his. But he let his arm fall to his side and blinked a couple of times, still hearing her cry, snivel and whine like.... a child. Coriander would not respond to any of that, but he would give her an earful. His own 'pep talk' in a way. He brought a cold hand up and took a hold of her chin, forcing her to look up at him as his voice, cold and deadly in its flat tone, sounded only between them for no one else to hear.

Vampires don't whine, child... They don't cry. They don't feel remorse. They don't feel anything. You're hanging onto emotions. They're for the weak-minded beings of humanity. You're not human. You're a living corpse with the sole purpose of feeding off the living, causing pain and fear, being a monster and existing because everything else you had as a human will die off and disappear. he stared at her harshly before he continued, letting go of her chin. He had given this talk before to other vampires. Just in hopes of straightening them out to what they should be. Sometimes it worked. Sometimes, it didn't. Hopefully, she got the hint.

Julien's got a lot of hopes in you and had he not, I would have killed you the moment he had brought you in the door. I still hold my promise that I'll cut you to shreds if you mess up royally and neither of us are around to stop you before it happens. You have got to straighten yourself out, child. I'm sure you've got some sort of potential, but you just aren't proving yourself to be nothing but a headache. he muttered darkly. How about you try proving the Boogeyman wrong for once. Prove to me that you can actually be a vampire instead of a sobbing corpse with a drinking problem and a need to pity herself like a rejected human.

[Veranda Kingsford]

Veranda said nothing as Coriander affirmed her belief that Julien would be upset with her. She knew he was probably right, but she had a feeling he was just being cruel too. He liked being cruel, but she was finding it harder and harder to hate him for it. She saw a certain attractiveness to cruelty herself now. She said nothing as he remarked about being a nursemaid. She didn’t much care to think on that statement. He took hold of her chin and dragged her gaze to his, somewhere she very much didn’t want to look, but she didn’t dare turn her eyes away once the connection was made. He spoke harshly, spoke of the fact that Julien was the only reason she was alive, and he mentioned his threat from before, this time to her rather than his pupil.

Maybe you should just let him. Being killed would be so much easier. A small voice in her head suggested. Veranda then felt a sudden wave of disgust for herself, thinking such thoughts, and a louder, much colder voice spoke up in her head. This one had the potential to be her own voice in time, if she let it, and she liked the way it sounded.

What? Just give up? Just die like some dog in a ditch? At least they try first you miserable wretch! Listen to what he says! You’re a monster now damn it, and stronger. So why act so fucking weak? Your thoughts and fears never pushed you down when you were mortal, why should they even matter now?

Veranda listened to what Cori said, weighing his words carefully. She looked down, though she couldn’t see the ground, not with her chest pressed against his. Prove him wrong? How so?

By getting rid of that emotional baggage. That’s how. He’ll have to show you how to do that, but you’ll have to be willing. Let go of this sniveling brat version of yourself you created since that demon dragged you into the house and had his way with you. Wasn’t the first time, but with the two men you’re with now, it certainly can be the last…

Veranda set her jaw and looked back up to Cori, a certain fire blazing in her eyes, a fire Julien would find familiar and probably be delighted to see once more in her dark orbs. She reached up, wiping away her tears, and she looked at the liquid that sat on the tips of her fingers, before gazing hard into Cori’s pale eyes.

“Fine.” She said, holding up her hand. “Consider these my last tears I shed then. I can be a vampire. I can be a monster.” She said, flicking the teardrops from her fingers and pushing herself from Cori, crossing her arms.

“I’ll show you both! More importantly, I’ll show myself.” She said stubbornly, before thinking a moment, then regarding his gaze again. “I’ll stop feeling anything…but I don’t know how to stop. I’ll need you for that.” She said, and then thought it over. Would he even bother teaching her? Or would he expect her to figure it out on her own? She hoped for the former, as she’d be lost with the latter. Either way, damn it she’d figure it out. One way or another she’d learn to at least stand on the same playing field as Cori and Julien. She might not ever reach their level but she’d try.

[Deleted]

Coriander was good at getting under peoples' skin. Veranda would be no problem. She was weak in his opinion. Mentally, physically.. He could have a wonderful time messing with her mind if she didn't belong to Julien. But she did and that was keeping him from doing a lot to the poor girl. But if it got to the point that Julien didn't really do more to train her and teach her things, then Coriander was going to step in and it wouldn't be good.

And if Julien ended up hating his own teacher then so be it. But Cori wasn't going to put up with her and her lack of control. He blinked again, looking at her carefully and wondered what she was thinking. He had plenty more to tell her if she wanted to stick around and hear it. Though she had no choice. He'd have to bring her back home and skip out on a meal tonight because he had to tail her whereabouts the whole time. Lord only knew how long the conversation was going to be between the three of them when they got home.

He watched her close until she looked up at him however and spoke. Her eyes held a certain fire within them. Something he was hoping to see. That was the start of it for the most part. He had been insane after he had lost his own sire centuries ago. Then being locked up under a castle for almost two centuries brought on another side of him. He knew locking her up in the darkness was out of the question. But he was sure there was something he could do to make her less emotional and more of a calm and quiet killer.

He didn't think twice about what Julien might think about it. After all, the pupil of his should expect Coriander to step in eventually and improve something Veranda just wasn't too good at. Which was keeping control over desires and emotions. He could only hope that the girl would heed the advice he had to give and find some way to work with what he said. If not, he would have wasted his time explaining and teaching her how to not let her emotions get in the way of a kill.

He let her step away from him and stared at her a bit more, sensing her determination. She wanted to learn what it took to be a monster. To be a nightmare. To be a vampire. Then by all hell, he was going to show her his methods. Even if she wasn't really his pupil or his fledgling. Then she turned stubborn and said she'd prove it. He hoped so or it won't be quite a disappointment all over again.

Let's hope so, child... It'd be a shame to waste my time on you if you disappoint me or Julien again. he stated and stood there against the wall. He was silent for but a moment when she said that she needed him to show her how to stop feeling. It's not easy... he mentioned quietly. He lifted his chin and gazed down at her with a complicated look. As if wondering exactly what to show or say to her in order to explain how she had to stop feeling anything. And then he recalled what had gotten him started with dismissing any emotion whatsoever. The rage. The hate. The anger. It all stemmed from there. After that, it was nothing.

To rid yourself of emotion, you have to be ruled by only the easiest ones that overcome. Including anger, hate, jealousy, and overall rage... It's almost like a lust for blood, you see. he tried to explain, leaning against the wall quietly. The negativity draws a monster out of anyone and reveals only the ugliness of the soul. No one ever dies happy. And no one wanders around after death as a happy soul either. Because how you feed on what you feed on should show you what you are. Just an animalistic monster. When predators hunt, they feel nothing but hunger that has to be satisfied. They don't pity their prey because they have families. They don't have remorse for killing something that didn't stand a chance. They just kill. And that's what you have to do.

He blinked and continued on his little explanation. There was nothing more he liked doing than making a vampire realize their potential and changing their whole mind set on what they were capable of doing. It was the basis of why he started with Julien. To prove to himself that he could make a monster out of a child. Julien had not disappointed. But it seemed he had to step in and be a teacher to Veranda as well. It didn't bother him that much. He was going to take advantage of this a little bit.

Just think back to the people you slaughtered in Merovech... You were full of rage, weren't you? Drunk albeit, but you masscred them like you would with spring lambs. he asked, looking at her. You could have kept going if Julien hadn't of stopped you. Would have slaughtered everyone you could until you were satisfied. Because you were selfish and blinded by your needs over any other emotion. And that is the basis for any predator. That is where to start. Hate humanity and what it has done to you before. Use it against them... Show them what primal rage looks like and they will fear you.

And that fear, child... It makes the blood you drink extremely sweet and addictive....

[Veranda Kingsford]

Veranda listened to him, feeling unsure when he spoke. Start by being ruled by the easiest that overcome? That seems like a difficult task. She had thought she’d start with the ones she had control over, but maybe his method would work. It was worth a try in any case. To kill with no remorse. She didn’t think that’d be too hard, but Cori’s method was cold a logical. It seemed like the opposite of how she conducted herself in Merovech. But obviously Cori’s way worked better than hers, considering his age. But to kill with no remorse like a true monster? She thought back at Mero, tearing those men apart. She could do that, and who knew? Perhaps with better control it’d just drive the fear in deeper.

“To show them that hate and rage but do it from the shadows?” She asked. “Make them create their own version of the monster? I suppose that’d be as far as I went for now. I don’t know how to do the Boogey.” She said. She wasn’t sure if she ever cared to learn or not. She’d rather focus on being the best vampire she could be for now, and not upsetting Cori, or worse, Julien. She loved him far too much to keep disappointing him. It pained her to think that she’d have to face his disappointment tonight, but it wasn’t like it wasn’t something she didn’t deserve really. She’d have to suck it up, face her teacher, and do better.

She suddenly wondered when it was the last time Coriander ever actually went into society himself, not clinging to the shadows. She didn’t find the current time appropriate for asking, but she supposed she’d ask eventually. Wouldn’t it be more terrifying to be the hidden predator among the masses? The wolf in sheep’s clothing? Not that Cori could blend in anyhow. He seemed to make a point to look as scary as possible without trying now. He was the Boogeyman though, so one couldn’t expect anything different.

She hoped she could do this. She didn’t know if she could let go of all her emotions like Cori did. But to gain control, and to shake the useless ones would be liberating enough. If she could learn that, free herself from this pathetic version she had adopted, she’d probably kiss the ancient vampire in joy. Well, maybe not, but he’d be aware of her gratitude one way or another, whether he wanted it or not. But she pushed these thoughts aside. What use was there in showing such determination moments ago and then doubting herself when she had yet to begin? That was the childish, whiny part of her clamoring for its throne back, and she’d not give it to her. And if she truly did succumb to that pathetic version she was going to shake, then she wasn’t worth being a vampire, was she?

[Deleted]

He recalled his own hatred of humanity. How the slaves he had owned when he was human had killed his wife and tried to kill him. Oh how he hated the human race since then. How they turned against him because he was a tyrant. Lowly buggers they were and Coriander wished he could have slaughtered them all himself. But his sire had done that instead. And even then, he remembered that night constantly and not once did he hold himself back. Cutting out the hearts of his victims wasn't just for fun.

It was a constant reminder and a way to retaliate against his near death experience. It was a statement of how heartless humanity was when they were afraid or too full of themselves. So he'd do them a favor and literally make them heartless. Twas the basis he would use as an example if Veranda didn't understand the whole predator thing too well. Humans were just bits of meat for tasting. Things to be tortured and played with. They had no other purpose besides toys or prey. For Coriander, they were both at once.

He gently pushed himself away from the wall and stood straight, looking down at her as he listened to her speaking, pale eyes glaring solely at her and getting his mind ready in order to respond. From the shadows. The rage and hatred. A good place for her to start indeeed. But without killing a person right off the bat of course. She could learn a thing or two about slowly killing someone. Or stalking them for that matter. He would teach her little techniques.

He made a slight face when she mentioned the Boogey... As Julien had started to call it a while back. I don't think you're ready to learn what I know or what Julien knows. For me, it took centuries. Julien was lucky to have learned a fraction of what I know in the several years we've been together. I'll only bother to teach you the basics of learning good control over your hunger. Beyond that, we'll see when the time comes.

Coriander wasn't going to teach her anything beyond the basics right now. She had lost control in Merovech and almost had done the same a few moments ago. She wasn't ready in Cori's opinion and probably wouldn't be for a number of years down the line. So he wasn't going to fill her up with any sort of hopes in that department until he was sure she could really prove herself.

Just think what you can be really capable of if you leave most, if not all, emotion behind when you're hunting or killing. Do you not remember what it was like as a human.... to fear what you couldn't see? What you could hear around you in the dark... Something lurking within inches or feet from you. The way the hairs stood up on the back of your neck. He explained carefully as he recalled how his victims usually reacted when he was hunting them from the darkness.

Humans fear what they don't understand. Or what they don't see right in front of them. And that's where their minds make things up and give a form or figure to what they cannot see. And that, child, tends to be far worse than what I appear as. And that's when they panic... He paused and stood there. Remember our trip to the farm house? Just standing there in the dark... I didn't even need to use any sort of mind manipulation. But it makes it more interesting.

He took a couple steps to the side and figured they should start walking along the streets. So he went towards the alleyway's opening and looked around for a moment before stepping out. He glanced at her and spoke a little softer so no ears but hers could hear. Still hungry?

[Veranda Kingsford]

Veranda said nothing as Coriander explained that he didn’t believe she was ready for the magic he used. She agreed with him honestly. She didn’t know if she could ever learn it, and she wasn’t concerned with it currently anyhow. She needed to grasp being a vampire first. Besides, this was Cori’s craft, and he chose Julien. He didn’t choose her. So she wouldn’t be offended should he eventually deny her any part of using the Boogey. She had never been a magic user of any type as a human. Perhaps she could have taken better care of herself if she did, but that was the past. If she dwelled on the past any longer she wouldn’t progress, now would she? In fact, she supposed deep down that was probably the root of her problem, but she would dive into deeper self-analysis later.

Her gaze drifted further into the alley as she heard some couple drunkenly singing, making their way down a distant alley. She turned, stepping a bit closer to Cori, till the sound faded. Had a human stood here they probably wouldn’t even have heard the two, but she did, and had no intention of being around them until she could completely master herself. Had a human been in her shoes they’d probably be cowering from Cori currently anyhow. She looked back to him when he spoke, describing the fear she felt as a human, even felt now sometimes, but from different sources. Yes, she remembered the feeling well.

Humans making their own monsters, and with minimal effort on his part. She nodded when he made her recall the farmhouse. All Cori did was smother the fire and the family had been panicked.

“All I had to do was touch her hair and she screamed.” She said softly, remembering the way she touched the daughter’s hair and the girl’s fear spiked. Veranda hadn’t harmed her when she did that, but that didn’t matter. The girl didn’t know what was there, and she made her own demons. Veranda could imagine what it was like, picturing your own personal demons touching you from the darkness. It must be terrifying. She looked up as Cori moved to the alley entrance and stepped out. Well that answered her previous question, she supposed. She stepped forward and paused as he spoke his quiet question, and the surprise on her face could have been comical. She wasn’t sure about having an appetite after her near disaster. After a moment she decided she was. She hadn’t eaten in a little while.

“Yes. Why?” She asked, stepping up to him. Were they going to go out to find something? Shouldn’t they find Julien first? She figured perhaps they’d go back, she’d face Julien, and then they’d leave. Actually she expected to be grounded to the house for the rest of the night. But it seemed that may not be the case, and she felt a little happy at that. Maybe Cori wasn’t so bad in the end. She supposed she should put aside her bias against the elder vampire. Julien respected him, and Ver was under his roof. She never liked the vampire because of his change in Julien that he caused, but that turned out fine. Then she disliked him because he had once used his power against her, but after witnessing what he did she supposed she should have been grateful she didn’t end up like his heartless corpses he liked to leave behind. She should give the man a chance. After all he was doing the same for her, wasn’t he?

At this, Veranda felt a lot better. She’d let go of her prejudice against Cori. And considering it never had a strong foundation to begin with, letting it go wasn’t too hard. She’d try. For Julien, herself, and Coriander. They were trying for her after all.

[Deleted]

He wanted to see her progress a lot. Because someone so young, especially a woman, had emotions running on everything. And that was a dangerous mix when that person was a creature of the night. Too much chaos could ensue and Coriander didn't feel like getting up and moving out of this place. There was so much more he could do to terrify the people who lived here. So much more fear to drink up.

So it was a no-brainer that Coriander expected to see Veranda do her best to improve and impress those she was living with. In fact, it had crossed Coriander's mind a couple of times to find other vampires and take them in as well. Perhaps have his own coven to rule. His own soldiers to send out and tear people apart when he wanted it done. Under his rule, vampires would have a heavy influence on the city. But he would only start slow and that meant teaching a vampire the better skills they either chose to ignore or didn't know they had.

As she stayed close to him, he looked around. Up and down the streets. Hardly a soul, but there were enough still lurking around somewhere near the center of town that Coriander could pick from. Those that weren't drinking. Bodies that were safe for Veranda to have a taste of. He glanced down at her when she recalled that night. How she barely touched the girl's hair and she had freaked out. Coriander had gotten such a high off that fear he had smelled. He seemed to hear some accomplishment in her voice.

And that is what makes a hunt all the more entertaining and fulfilling. At least through my experience. he stated and looked back ahead of him. When she answered his question as to whether she was still hungry, he nodded. Then let us find something to feast upon. I haven't fed either and the night has only begun. he added. And this time, you take your pick and see how you do on a hunt.

[Veranda Kingsford]

Veranda looked at Coriander as he told her that she’d be picking the victim. She’d be displaying her hunting skills tonight. She felt a bit of excitement at that. Something she’d do on her own? She never really got to hunt on her own since she was turned. Not that she was entirely on her own here but she had the opportunity to use any method she wanted. She never got to do that. She never even considered what kind of hunter she’d be. She supposed she’d be the same kind of blood hunter as she was thief. She’d try sticking to the shadows if her first method didn’t work out well for her.

She stopped and listened to the heartbeats nearby, hearing most in the center of the town. She was only nervous that she’d run into more drunkards. She didn’t want to deal with them. But the night was still young. The drunken population would be at its lowest at this point of the night. She took a step towards the center of town, meaning to lead the way, before she paused and faced Cori again.

“We’re going without Julien?” She asked. She never actually spent a lot of time with the ancient vampire alone. It was strange enough talking to him civilly, even more so actually spending a night with him. Besides, she wasn’t sure if he wanted to get her back to face her possible punishment with Julien and have him come along or not. Jules could hunt for himself, but he’d probably be wondering where his teacher and his pupil went. She also wondered how he’d react to learning that Veranda was going to be taking extra lessons from Cori now. She had no interest in learning from Cori exclusively, but she was interested in learning how he controlled, or rather did away, with his emotions. She’d learn how to be a better vampire by Jules.

Her actions in Merovech had a certain alluring effect to her. The flying blood and screams and men looking up at her helplessly and in terror as she tore limbs from their bodies was seductive to her. But it was also harmful to her and those she cared for as well. It’d be something so amazing to be able to have that feeling again but to be more precise. To be better controlled. She was itching to be on her way and try her own hand at hunting a man.

[Deleted]

It was a bit of a test for her. He wanted to see what she had learned and perhaps show off her skills. He was putting her on the spot because she had learned a bit more than she had known before. He wanted to see it. Observe and tell her how to be a better predator. She had seen him kill before. Had seen the powers he was capable of. Now, it was her turn. He was sure she would do a better job than she did last time. But he wasn't going to hold his breath with someone who was still learning of course.

He still continued to walk beside her, blinking every couple of minutes. The chilly air and the dim torches along some of the streets offered little cover for the people who were still wandering in the night. Coriander's senses were overflowing from the carelessness of these humans. Such bags of blood and meat that were their staple food source. Now they were the object of training for the young woman at his side.

At the sound of her question, Coriander looked right at her and nodded. Yes... Is there a problem with me wanting to observe how far you've gotten in your training? he asked in that same droning tone. Julien may be your teacher, but even I'd like to know how a young vampire progresses in their training. And I'm sure Julien wouldn't see this as a bad thing either. he guessed.

They seemed to have been getting along already. Which was quite strange. But she was being tolerant. As was he towards her as well. But he didn't want to point any of that out. It was good they were getting along after all. Though Coriander was more or less willing to teach her despite the fact he didn't sire her. He had taught a lot of logical things to other vampires over the years, never once siring any of his own. He let other vampires do their own dirty work and instead enjoyed corrupting the minds of those new vampires instead.

Go ahead and find someone that strikes your fancy. Preferably someone who isn't drunk. I'll watch and see what you can do. he mentioned.

[Veranda Kingsford]

Veranda looked to Cori as he replied with a question of his own. “No-o…” She said in response, a small smile on her features. He was only keeping an eye on his pupil’s pupil. She was perfectly fine with that. She had been surprised that Cori didn’t seem to care to invite Jules was all. But it didn’t bother her any. She was sure the elder was right anyhow. It certainly couldn’t hurt. Coriander told her to go and find someone who struck her fancy, and that was what she intended to do.

Veranda gave Cori a nod and turned, prancing off ahead of him, hands clasped behind her back as she walked, making her way towards the humans. As she got closer she stepped more to the shadows, as not to be the center of attention. She stepped around carts and barrels and crates, still sticking to the shadows as her dark eyes scanned over the people she passed. She passed a few drunk men, one who even whistled to her, but with the comfort of the elder behind her she found it easy to turn away, walk right past them without a sniff.

She continued walking until a man caught her attention. She paused, leaning against a building. The man was young, handsome, brown hair falling about his bright eyes. He was chatting with a girl who was a tad bit too young for his age, she must have only been about thirteen. She was packing up the last of her basket, having finished shopping for the night, and was alone. She seemed uncomfortable around the man, even though he kept his distance and acted charmingly to her. Perhaps she had yet to be exposed around men, and it showed with the blush on her cheeks and the hurried way she gathered her basket. The scene looked alright, innocent enough for an older man hitting on a younger girl, but it was the glint in the man’s eyes that caught Ver’s attention. It was a glint she was familiar with, having seen it in the red eyes of the demon who had attacked her, raped her. The question was this; did she want to target that man because he targeted the girl? Was it just her pulling in her personal feelings? Probably. But he also smelled so very enticing. She supposed he’d bring this on himself.

She pushed herself from the wall, making her way to him. There was a swing in her hips, and she had a little shy smile on her face that seemed to suggest she was a reserved kind of girl, despite the movement of her hips. She stepped up to the man, tapping his shoulders. He turned, his eyes falling on her face, then chest, then hips, and then back up. He flashed her his own charming smile.

“Yes?” He asked.

“I seem to have gotten myself lost. Can you point me out to the inn?” Veranda asked, the young girl scurrying off when the man was distracted. He looked after her, frowned a bit, then turned to Ver. She could almost see his thought process. His real target was gone. He’d settle for Veranda. Good.

“I can do you better. I can show you.” He said smoothly, placing a hand on her shoulder. Veranda brightened at this.

“Oh, would you? Thank you! I’m a bit too scared to walk the alleyways myself. You’re very kind.” She said, reaching up to touch his hand. He smiled, stepped closer to her, and began to lead her towards the nearest alley. He began making small talk, asking what brought her to town, and Veranda chatted away, as if she were the most clueless being. She said nothing as his hand drifted down to her hip. They walked further into the alleys, further into the dark. She let him lead her to a remote area, all the while stepping closer to him as if she were getting nervous. The man smirked, drawing a knife and he held it to her breasts.

“Now that we’re alone, why don’t you take off that shirt of yours?” He asked, talking in his smooth voice. Veranda blinked at him, and he felt a bit unnerved at her lack of surprise or fear. She looked at the knife, tilted her head, and then lifted a knee and hammered it into his torso. The man felt his breath woosh out, and felt a rib break. The knife fell from his hand, and Ver caught it. She waited until he fell to the ground, trying to gasp for breath, and when he finally did suck in air, she stomped a foot down on his neck, cutting off whatever scream he attempted. She looked at the knife and then looked disappointed.

“I should have chosen someone else. You were much too easy.” She said, the man staring up at her, eyes bulging, heart hammering. She sighed, toying with the knife. “Oh well. What is done is done.” She added, ignoring the man as he clawed at her boots, wheezing out some sort of plea. She placed the blade against her chin, thinking. She didn’t feel satisfied with this, but she’d have to roll with it. She crouched, taking the knife and using it to slowly cut the man’s shirt open, and his heart rate spiked as the fabric tore away from his skin. She lifted the foot on his neck, allowing his a couple of gasps before setting it back down again. Didn’t want him dying on her just yet.

[Deleted]

Coriander was willing to see her in action. From the swagger of hunting and luring her prey. And then to feeding and killing. He could hold off a little more on feeding himself. He wanted to get the lust for blood up farther by watching her first. It was fascinating for him to watch how others hunted. No one was ever the same when it came to the vampire kind. Everyone had their own technique and their own personal touch.

So he kept his stance as such that someone may think him to be a noble. Which he was at one point in his life. He lifted his chin and looked at her closely, narrowing his gaze as he heard all of the heartbeats around them. There were plenty of targets. The cattle for the slaughter. Their rich, thick blood pulsing through their disposable bodies. Coriander wanted a kill for himself at that point, but he needed to be  attentive in case Veranda lost herself again.

He watched as she skipped off, passing some drunk men without a single care in the world. Good thing too. And Coriander merely followed far behind, but kept an eye on her very closely. He hid in the dark so well, caressing the side of the building as if he were the darkness himself. But he took light steps, listening and watching. Like a hawk, he moved to a better position and continued to observe. The man led her into the alleyway, all the way to a more secluded spot. Coriander watched on until the knife came out.

His eyes narrowed and he waited for Veranda to make her move. Humans... So gullible. But he didn't step in. Watching still, he seemed pleased when she suddenly took control and the man was on the ground, gasping for breath. From the dark, Coriander was almost right behind her, looking down at the human. His eyes were wide and interested. So intense. He was really impressed at the fact she wasn't going to kill him so quickly. This definitely showed what she was learning. A good deal in fact.

You're doing wonderfully, Veranda.. he stated, using her name this time instead of calling her 'child'. And if she ever paid attention to that, it only meant she was graduating in his personal opinion. Already, she was impressing the elder. At least for now. Continue...

[Veranda Kingsford]

Veranda turned, looking up at Coriander as he spoke. She heard him use her name, and after a moment she smiled a bit to herself. That was the first time he bothered to actually call her by her name. She must be on the right track. The man under her boot meanwhile spotted Cori, and reached to him, as if to ask for help, but the wide eyed gaze of the pale eyed man before him terrified him. And if the gaze didn’t, the fact that he praised the woman drove the fear in deeper. He squirmed under her boot, as if trying to escape Cori more than her. Veranda turned back to him, pouting.

“Ah! What, afraid of him are you? You shouldn’t be, he’s only there to watch. I’m offended you forgot about me.” She said, narrowing her eyes at the man. He looked back up at her, fear in his eyes, and she felt better at that. She lifted her boot, the man sucking in more air. He gasped for breath, and while he did Ver spotted an old wooden crate nearby. She chewed on her lip a moment or two before nodding to herself, gripping the man’s ankle, and she dragged him deeper into the alley to the crate. No one would hear him back here. The fool made sure of that himself.

“Please…I have money…” The man croaked as she shoved him in a sitting position against the crate. She lifted one hand, pinned it to the crate, then drove the man’s knife into the crate, through his hand. The man gave a sudden, girlish shriek as the blood flew. She withdrew her own knife, still the one Cori permitted her to carry, and pinned his other hand to the crate in a similar fashion, both hands skewered to the crate. The man gave another shriek, and Ver rocked back on her heels, looking at him. He looked to her, tears in his eyes. Oh, how sad.

“Please! I’m sorry! Please stop!” He begged. Veranda smiled. She wondered how many woman begged the same to him and he simply smirked. She leaned forward, beginning to hum a little tune. Veranda may not be the prettiest girl, or the smartest or strongest, but she could sing like an angel. She dug through the man’s pants, finding his coin purse, tossing it aside, and found what she was sure he had. Another knife. This one was a bit bigger. The man lifted a leg, attempting to kick her in the face, but she caught his foot.

“Thank you for reminding me.” She said, and gave his ankle a jerk. A sickening crack sounded from the joint and the man howled. She grabbed his other ankle and broke it as well. While the man howled and shrieked she eyed the knife she held and after a second plunged it into his lower belly. The man’s screams were silenced a moment, and he stared at her in shock.

“You’re too loud.” Veranda said softly, watching the blood spill onto his pants, soaking them. She dragged the knife upwards slowly, and the man recommenced his screams, hot blood spurting from his mouth and from the wound. Some blood splashed of Ver’s face and she paused her carving to lick a bit off her lip. The blood tasted so sweet. He exceeded her expectations. He tasted so much better than she expected! She continued carving up, surprised the man was still alive, until his blade stopped at his sternum. She sawed a few times then pulled out the blade, looking it over.

“Dull. You should take better care of your blades sir.” She remarked, though doubted he heard. His screams were becoming gurgled gasps, his body twitching as his life quickly drained from him.

[Deleted]

He kept his hands at his sides, listening to the beating of this man's thrumming heart. Intoxicating. He was going to stand by and watch all the more. It was a good thing she wasn't killing this man right off the bat. Because blood filled adrenaline was far sweeter than the normal sort if you only fed from a human plainly. He had explained such a thing to Julien and her numerous times.

He leaned against the building a bit, silent as a shady ghost, haunting this man until his death as she was bringing it to him. He was going to be sorry that he ever bothered to take a knife to this younger vampire. And Coriander was definitely going to enjoy watching her kill under his watch. Perhaps Julien would get annoyed at the fact he wasn't along for this lovely little viewing, but Coriander didn't care, obviously.

As he continued watching, he noticed the fear of the human shifted towards him. He had been about to say something, but Veranda spoke up instead, getting the human's attention back to her. As she grabbed a hold of the man's ankle and dragged him deeper into the maze of alleys, Coriander wordlessly followed. He wondered exactly what she was going to plan. Or what was running through her mind at this point. She had impressed him so far and she was still going.

When they got to the crate, Coriander said nothing as he watched her put a knife through each of the man's palms. With the screams and the sights and sounds of it, it would have made anything with a heartbeat cringe. But Coriander was stone cold in his expression. But he was impressed all the more. Coriander wouldn't tell Julien much of anything involving these hunting trips. Not at first. Because Cori didn't want Jules telling her it wasn't alright to do certain things. The elder vampire wanted to see how creative she could get.

And he saw that when the man tried to kick her in the head. She, in turn, broke his ankles with that sickening sound of bones breaking and dislocating. Definitely something creative. Wordlessly, Coriander stood there in the shadows, both watching her and listening to make sure no one would stop her from doing anything. And it was a good thing she finally stabbed him to silence the human. Because Coriander had just been ready to suggest it. The smell of blood engulfed the small space they were in, causing the elder vampire to use his lungs for once to really smell the air.

Divine. Coriander looked at her carefully and nodded his head. He was pleased. Far beyond pleased. She was coming along very well. He had nothing to say yet. She was carving him up like a piece of butchered meat. Just beautiful...

[Veranda Kingsford]

The blood was flowing freely, and Veranda’s appetite had grown strong from the scent that permeated the air. She leaned forward, running her tongue over her fangs, looking the dying man in the eye. She watched as his life slowly dulled in his eyes. It was interesting to watch. Like watching a candle flame slowly sputter out. She never watched a dying man’s eyes before, since she never really killed prior to becoming a vampire. She would like to play with him more but this was enough, she supposed. She tossed the knife she used aside, then remembered Coriander’s presence. She thought a moment. What was it Julien said the elder liked? She lifted her pale hand and plunged it into the man’s chest cavity. The man gave a jerk but not much else. She leaned forward, sinking her fangs into his neck, blood filling her mouth. It tasted sweet to her, strong and sweet. Intoxicating, truly intoxicating. A voice in the back of her mind whispered, wondering what it would taste like if the blood was laced with alcohol, but it was easy to ignore. It was easy to ignore anything as she drank the blood deeply.

She swallowed another mouthful, and as her hand grasped the man’s heart, it gave its last beat, and he gave his last breath. She swallowed more of the sweet, thick, red liquid, and then ripped her hand free of the dead man’s chest. She held the heart in her hand, the organ steaming in the sudden cool air. She felt some muscles in it twitch, and she licked her lips and turned, looking up at Cori. She held the heart out to him.

“Would you like it?” She asked, blood running down her arm slowly. She was pretty sure Julien said Cori liked the hearts. Either way it seemed appropriate enough to offer it to him. She never drank blood from a heart before, so she didn’t know how the blood tasted in it, but it wouldn’t bother her if he took the organ for himself.

Whether he took it or not her hunger called her again, and she wanted to take what blood she could from the man before he completely bled out. She turned back, freeing her knife from the man’s palm and biting into his wrist, sipping on the blood. She stayed that way a moment longer before dropping his hand and using a clean area of his shirt to wipe her blade clean. It glimmered dangerously in the moonlight once more. She slipped the blade back into her pocket and stood, licking at the blood that was on her hand before facing Cori, wondering what his criticisms would be on the kill. She didn’t think she did too bad, but she was inexperienced so whatever his opinions on the subject would probably be beneficial in some way. She wondered if she should tell Julien about this hunt, if he’d be upset. Well, whether he was or not he’d probably find out. After all she still had to own up to her earlier mistake, and she still wasn’t looking forward to that.

[Deleted]

The smell of blood and impending death was something the vampire just loved as a combination these days. Or just about any evening or early morning to be more precise. This was something to behold. Such innate violence and bloodshed. The vampire was simply awed and thrilled to see it in another so young. The willingness to please perhaps? Or just because she was being taught by two ruthless characters that deemed such actions as a good deed.

Regardless, Coriander was watching wordlessly. Simply impressed and eager to taste the blood of her kill even just a little bit. The taste of the most fearful humans were always divine and amazing. Such a pity other vampires didn't realize it nowadays. Perhaps one day, even Veranda would be able to spread the message of such killing methods. Making fear be the basis of a great feast. Only time would tell of course.

He stayed quiet the whole time as she performed a menagerie of lovely cuts and slices. How she dug into the cavity of the man's chest and made herself more of a mess with each passing moment. If he could feel anything, it would have been lust and such high thought of her. She would be a lovely killing machine the more she worked on such techniques. And though she made almost royally screwed up not too long ago, Coriander felt that she was definitely redeeming herself right now.

The old vampire leaned carelessly against the wall, pale eyes seeming to caress the view he saw. The blood. The organs. The life leaving this meatbag. And how Veranda seemed to be enjoying herself with all the hunger in the world. Coriander was extremely pleased. He lifted his chin and continued to remain quiet. Until she did something he didn't expect. He heard her and looked at what she held.

The heart. The one thing that fueled his rage against the human race. Coriander felt such beings didn't deserve a heart. And so he made a habit of taking it from them as a trophy and a statement. And to see a young vampire kill someone and offer such a prize to him, Coriander didn't move for a moment until he thought it over.

He moved and stretched his hand out, taking the organ with a nod of his head. Thank you. I'll accept it. And in return, I think you have definitely made up for the close mistake you made earlier. He stated in approval. Coriander could be reasonable when he wanted to be. And since she had improved a great deal, he didn't see anything wrong in giving a compliment.

He took the heart and seemed to gingerly sip from the bloody muscle while watching her continue to feed. If she wanted to hunt a bit more, that would be fine. Otherwise, they'd have to head back home and see what Julien was up to.

[Veranda Kingsford]

Veranda’s eyes lit up when Coriander took the heart and even gave her a compliment, stating that she had redeemed herself in his eyes from the earlier near disaster she had almost stepped into. It felt good to know she wasn’t seen as a total screw up in his eyes. At least his regard of her was getting better. It excited her, and made her want to run home and tell Jules about it, about how she was improving. Who knew? Maybe someday she really would be up to Julien’s level. That would be nice.

She continued to absently lick at her fingers while Cori fed from the heart. She turned back and looked at her kill, head tilted. It was strange to think she caused such a mess. This was something she never would have considered doing as a human. She came across bodies often, though they never really got to her. But she never really understood that there were creatures out there that did this out of enjoyment. Even with Julien being her friend she always just figured it was done out of necessity. She never really thought of something bending over their kill in total glee. Not until she became one. And she felt surprised the notion never really crossed her mind. There were mere humans that harmed others with gleeful grins on their faces. The face of the albino demon flashed in her mind, his amused smirk as she tried to fight back, run away. His laugh at her attempts of escape and pure joy in his eyes as he tore her clothes to shreds. She imagined he had a grin on his face when he finally did stop toying with her and actually did the dirty deed of raping her. But she wouldn’t know. He had blindfolded her by that point.

The scariest part was the fact that he had found her again. Had tried to hurt her again. Veranda finally stopped licking blood from her fingers, letting her hand drop to her side. The demon had tried again and failed. Because Julien popped up and ripped him to pieces. A little, short, low laugh escaped her at the thought, and then she turned to Cori.

“Will you be hunting?” She asked, pretty sure he himself had yet to do so this night. She wasn’t sure if he could be satisfied with just the heart, but he also liked hearts a lot. So who knew? She glanced back at her kill, and felt satisfied with it for now, except for one thing. “I wish I could have seen what his biggest fear was.” She said softly. “I find it so interesting that sometimes the simplest fears men have can be what cripples them. What makes them freeze up.” She honestly also didn’t think she’d ever be able to use Cori’s magic. Julien knew it. She didn’t think she could know it. It was a feeling though, she never tried yet, but it was a feeling none the less. She turned back to Cori.

“When did you start all this? When did you decide to go about life this way? Haunting people and feeding off their fear and their blood? Why do you want to be a legend?” She asked, genuinely curious as to how Cori started doing this process. She knew it had to be a while ago, but she wanted to know how a vampire like him drew such a conclusion.

[Deleted]

For the time passing, he had nothing more to say as he sucked the blood out of the muscle she had generously given to him. Her mistake would still be mentioned to Julien, but this was going to be a far better report given to her sire than perhaps she was expecting. Thoughts of their little group they had right now were expanding. For if Coriander could produce a group of vampires large enough and with such colorful ways of killing, perhaps there was hope for his drive to take over the city.

Coriander stared at her as she continued to do whatever it was that she was doing, seeming to enjoy herself as she fed and pleased the elder vampire. There were at least two other vampires on his mind that he saw fit to join a guild he'd create. And only then would it continue to grow in size, power and strength under Coriander's command. He would have to discuss this with Julien further.

Silent he was as he pulled the muscle away from his lips. no blood was left in it. and so he stuffed the dead, empty heart in his black pocket and wiped his bloody mouth with his sleeve effortlessly. She turned from her kill and asked Coriander a question. he gave a nod. He would be hunting and perhaps may share if she still wasn't satisfied with her own kill and the blood it had given.

Such a dead sort of person he may be, but Coriander felt he had some sort of responsibility to help a killer vampire grow in knowledge and skill. Though not of his own siring, it made him feel less useless at times and far more deadly to know his skills were being passed on. And that his influence on the younger generations of vampires were being heard and utilized. For ever gruesome and grizzly killing from a vampire he taught, he felt his popularity growing.

He stood there, tall, dark and gruesome in his bloody appearance. And she made statements. To which Coriander merely listened to without words to respond. Perhaps something would trigger her to learn his magic. One day, she might just be able to see someone's fears and make it come to 'life'. But until then, Coriander and Julien would merely teach her what they could.

Then she questioned him. Personal questions involving his development of his talents and ways of life. It wasn't something anyone often asked him, but Coriander had nothing to hide. Such questions had been asked by Julien and helped the lad understand his teacher better. There was no reason Veranda couldn't learn about him either. So, he looked at her and answered.

It all started the night I was sired. When the people I had as slaves or servants rebelled. Killed my wife by cutting her heart out. Then they turned their blades on me. But they were stopped by a vampire, who turned me into the monster. He taught me what I needed to know. The basics. But years later, he went missing and I went on a bloody rampage.

He paused a moment and started walking from the scene of the grizzly murder, hoping she would follow and he wouldn't have to tell her. But he continued. That went on for a while before a friend of my sire took me in. He got me under control by limiting my intake of blood. Tried his best, but I left one night and slaughtered a whole village. The bastard locked me up for a couple centuries. Which turned out to my benefit.

I gained a power over the darkness. I understood it. I embraced it. And I was completely controlled by the hatred I had for humanity and the lack of respect this other vampire had for me. And the loss of my sire. Everything ate at my very core, but I loved how it made me feel. And the moment I found out what power I attained, I used it against the vampire holding me captive and broke out of captivity. he paused and looked at her solidly.

I spent every moment hunting humans and further perfecting my skill. And along the way, I found fear makes blood taste better and a cowering human gives me the power of control over them in ways most others would take for granted. He blinked a couple of times and thought about the whole legend question, lifting his chin slightly.

I want there to be fear. It's essential. It's a part of the human life. Without fear, there is nothing else. There are no legends. There are no pleas or cries for mercy. There are no reasons for the dark to exist. Fear brings out the imperfections in everyone and that... dear Veranda, is where I want to lurk. To be a whisper on the lips of many. He paused and reached out, putting a bloody hand on her shoulder.

You and I.... we are vampires. We are dark incarnate. We are the monsters that keep people afraid. We keep humans on their toes and test their strengths and weaknesses. We hunt them not only to keep ourselves alive... but to remind humans that they are not immortal. That they can and will die at any given time. But it doesn't ever come painlessly. He let go of her shoulder and continued walking, hearing his boots clicking lightly on the cobblestone.

But I tend to do it mostly because I hate humans... Disgusting, vile creatures they are.