Fantasy Veiled City

[Razvi-sama]

Mizuki Chiba
Mood: Concerned, overwhelmed, nervous
Location: Mizuki's Loft​

All Mizuki could do was nod along, at first. She was simply here to ensure he didn't go around running into trouble. But, he was assuring her that they were in this together, and really...how could she deny him when he was being so sweet? She laughed along and nodded. Somehow only a handful of words from him was able to ease the nervous fluttering within her. As long as he was by her side, how scary could the Black Market be?

Mizuki was also relieved to hear that they were simply borrowing the books they were about to steal. Momentarily, it reminded her of a time in her life she wished to forget, but with his declared love for the Public Library and for Shakespeare it seemed...Mizuki was left with a gentle assurance that all would be okay. His laughter seemed to soothe something deep within her as she couldn't help her own giggle. His smile was infectious, and his determination to clear Samantha's name inspiring.

With both worries soothed, Mizuki led the way out of the Public Library, feeling Theodore's presence behind her. She was eager to leave the Library in fear that they would catch them, though soon found herself stopping when Theodore's steps sounded a little too distant. There were moments where she did need to pause, peeking back to see him practically dragging his feet forward and all she could do was frown. His general being was sluggish and he looked as if exhaustion was heavily weighing over his figure...She waited for him to reach her side and smile sympathetically up to the man before she went at an even pace. She was still a step or two ahead, as he had to follow her out...but she ensured to match his pace, assuring him softly to take his time. While vampires did have a higher stamina and were in better physical shape than the average human...they were still...human...in a way...They all had their limits and it seemed like Theodore was reaching his. And, quickly.

As they stepped out of the Public Library, Mizuki peeked back towards Theodore as she held the door open for him...only to see him wince as the sun shone down upon them with her ardent glow. Her eyes widened and a hint of panic rushed through her, and without thinking...she stumbled forward and offered her shoulder to lean on. Not only that, she slid out a pair of sunglasses for him to wear, hoping it could at least ease some sort of discomfort. They took one step at a time, his lines seemed tense with mild frustration and he generally looked uncomfortable under his own skin.

Mizuki extended her hand out and tilted her body forward to wave down a cab, and one answered her call quickly. Thankfully. She encouraged Theodore to slip in first before she soon followed and let out a soft sigh, before address the driver and giving him her exact address. Whenever Mizuki was nervous, she had the tendency to ramble to fill in any silence that might only heighten her nerves, and so she went on and on about her loft and wanting to assure Theodore that the location was safe...only to turn her attention towards him to see...oh.

Mizuki lips stretched out into an affectionate smile as her gaze brushed over Theodore's figure...heavily slumped over the cab's worn out, leather seat. His head kept lulling from side to side weakly from the general car ride, and his lips were parted ever so slightly while his chest rose and fell evenly. He was absolutely dead to the world. Mizuki was able to drink in every dip and curve over his chiseled features, and found a small lock of hair fell out of place to tickle at his nose. Oh. She was incredibly tempted to just...well...why not? She bit her lower lip, her fang teasing her lip as she reached forward to delicately brush the rebellious piece of hair back behind his ear. There, much better, wasn't it?

Mizuki rested back against the car's seat as she was left to simply peer out the cab's window casually, chuckling softly to herself. He didn't hear a single thing she said, huh? It was perfectly understandable, he looked utterly spent as if the last of his energy had finally given out the moment he was given an ounce of direction. Though, she supposed she could be flattered...that he was comfortable enough to simply fall asleep beside her. Allowing himself to be...vulnerable in her presence. Her cheeks were tinted lightly as she gazed out the window, eyes scanning over each human and building that whisked past her vision.

When the cab came to a stop, Mizuki rummaged through her bag to slip out her wallet to pay for the fare only to perk up when she noticed Theodore was awake! She smiled to him knowingly, thanking the driver for his time before she slid out of the car and offered the sleepy vampire her hand to hold. Her grip was firm, secure...as she coaxed him out and closed the door behind her.

~​

After a friendly and polite greeting with the guard, Mizuki found herself able to let out a soft breath the moment the stepped into the elevator, her shoulders sagging forward ever so slightly and softly expressing that she had grown quite fond of Robert and that their relationship was cordial. He kept to himself, didn't ask many questions, and gave him treats. Simple as that.

Mizuki was just happy to be in a space to call her own, and she was just as content to share that same space with someone else. She had designed her home to not only match her general soft aesthetic, but it was filled with little mementos she had gathered throughout the many decades she had existed. It was her story compiled in one room. It was a home that represented who she was as a person, or rather...who she aspired to be. She proud of what she had managed to build over the many years of her lengthy existence, and as she looked to Theodore...she noted that he also seemed to find comfort in her tiny space.

This was actually the first time she brought up a someone who wasn't Gabriella, much less someone of the opposite sex. Actually, it was the one area of her life she hadn't satisfied. When she was human, the most she had come to something remotely romantic was with a young man who lived in her village. They shared sheepish glances towards one another, but that was all. Even after she was given a second chance at life, she never really...found herself in that sort of situation before. She could hardly even remember when was the last time she held someone's hand. Hm.

Ah, but those were unnecessary thoughts, we're they? When she slid out Alejandro's clothes, she turned towards Theodore and saw the dazed look that rested heavily over his eyes. He seemed...a little overwhelmed, but at the same time a little amused. He looked utterly adorable and really all she wanted to do was wrap him up in blankets. Serve him a nice warm drink. She rested the clothed down over the nearby sofa, writing down her address and number just in case, before finally turning to him and informing him of tiny little details he may need to know, just in case. However, she was sure he would be perfectly fine. He was a big boy and right now...she was simply keeping him from his sleep. As she stood before him, clutching tightly onto her bag and asking him if there was anything else...his eyes were drooping from the weight of exhaustion, not a single thought behind those eyes...yet he still took the time to properly thank her for everything and really...it was her pleasure.

"Thank you for trusting me", Mizuki said softly, offering him a sweet smile, "I'm happy I was able to be of some help...now go, rest...you deserve it", she hummed, her tone warm as she bowed her head to the vampire before she whisked around and padded across the room to the front door.

Mizuki paused, hand hovering over the doorknob as she looked over her shoulder to Theodore and grinned cheekily at the man, "You do make a fair point", she laughed, amused, "...and okay, I'll look forward to your message. Take as much as you need, though", she assured. And, with that...she closed the door behind her and locked it, just in case.

With that, Mizuki took in a deep breath...allowing the reality of everything that had happened settle in. She had just spent a whole day with Theodore. Maximus was potentially behind Samantha's arrest, and the Lasombra was no longer safe for someone like her. If anyone were to find out about what she was doing...gods, she didn't even wish to think about such a possibility. Charlotte would gouge out her eyes and Maximus would have them for dinner...

Mizuki swallowed thickly as she tensely walked down the hallway, allowing the day's events to weigh her down heavily as she dragged her feet and allowed herself to be consumed with anxiety...she began to pick at her fingers incessantly, allowed herself to fall back into a nervous state she would never dare show Theodore. She knew...she knew this was all going to start eating away at her. How was she going to ever face Charlotte or Maximus? How was she to lie to her best friend, to Gabriella? She was scared...she was scared...

She was so scared...

Mizuki found herself walking the streets of New York a little mindlessly. She stopped to gaze at a few structures here and there that caught her attention, slipped into a few hidden bookstores run by witches, or into tiny stands directed by masked goblins as she desperately tried to find something to distract her from the thoughts that swirled through her mind violently. She had no one to turn to, really, to express her concerns to. To bounce ideas off of. She silently wondered how Gabriella or Luna were doing...and silently wondered if she should visit any of the two women at their respective establishments...but quickly decided against it. That would be betraying Theodore's trust and potentially bring unwanted attention their way.

Eventually, Mizuki found herself at a tiny, quaint little corner bistro that was open twenty-four hours. She was able to slink into a private booth towards the back where she ordered a coffee, as they had a refill promotion. She ordered a chicken panini and sat at the booth for...who knows how long...Occasionally, the vampire would glance towards her phone in hoped to receive a message from Theodore, but alas...she knew how tired he truly had been. He deserved as much sleep as his body would allow, so she wasn't really desperate to go anywhere...but she just...didn't want to be alone at the moment, but of course she couldn't go back home and really...she had nowhere, at the moment.

Mizuki spent the rest of her afternoon at the bistro, even sneaking in a bit of blood into one of her many cups of coffee to have a proper snack for the evening. She drew, looked over the pictures stored in her camera, read through two of Shakespeare's playwrights to see if she was able to decipher any further clues...but it was all useless. She was much too distracted to concentrate on what was happening before her...her sketches were mindless, her pictures uninspiring, and she had to reread word after word...eventually, sleep began to suck away at her conscious and she had...fallen asleep against the booth's tiny corner...her head slumped against the wall beside her.

Mizuki had no idea how long she had been asleep, she just knew that when she woke up...a faint smell of sunflowers lingered over the air.

~

Spoiler: Corner Bistro

Yet...as she blearily blinked open her eyes, her gaze blurry with sleep...Mizuki peered down to find...someone had written over her sketchbook. She frowned, knowing that wasn't her handwriting...what the...? She rubbed at her eyes a little harshly as she lowered her eyes to peer over the words before her...only to feel as if a cold bucket of water had fallen over her. A chill ripped down her spine and she felt as if she was close to passing out. Was this some kind of sick joke?

On the page, the words that stared back at her...were frightening.

Ah. I see you have chosen death. Very well.
​

Who? Mizuki whipped her attention around the bistro in a desperate attempt to find the author of such cryptic words, but found...nothing. No one. There were only a handful of people left at the bistro, and one of them included the waitress. It was no one that Mizuki instantly recognized, yet she still felt...watched...

Feeling uneasy, Mizuki began to quickly gather her things, ensuring nothing had been stolen. She nearly forgotten her promise to check on Theodore as she ripped out the page in her sketchbook and threw the scrap of paper into a nearby trashcan.

Mizuki stood up, feeling her breaths come at a rapid and uneven pace as she kept wondering who was now threatening her. Was it Maximums or the stranger from last night—?

A soft chime echoed around her...tugging her out of her own messy thoughts as she peeked down to find...Theodore had written to her. His beauty sleep? Silly boy, he didn't need something as trivial as beauty sleep when he already was so...She shook her head and chuckled softly to herself. She was about to respond, when she noticed a few messages from Charlotte...asking her where she was and that they needed to talk.

I'm out, will be back later this evening or tomorrow morning. - M

Rather uncharacteristic of you, don't you think? We need to talk to you, so come home now. - C

No, I'll come home later, checking out a new artist. Thank you for your comprehension. Have a nice evening. - M
​

Mizuki let out a heavy sigh, not having the time nor the energy to deal with Charlotte at the moment. Also, what could they possibly wish to talk to her about? Did they...? No, surely they didn't. She returned back to Theodore's message, thinking it was smart of him to mention that their target was an artist. Now that was very characteristic of Mizuki, no?

Look forward to it, be right over! (:​

With that, Mizuki walked a couple of blocks before she reached her apartment complex, her breath visible before her due to the cold that surrounded her. The stars were visible tonight and the streets were nearly empty in her neighborhood, though she knew there were other parts of New York that were practically blooming with life. After all, this was the city that never slept, wasn't it?

Mizuki greeted Robert as she slid in and rose up to the tenth floor, before she stalked down the long hallway and found herself in front of her apartment, once again. She hoped he was able to catch up on some much needed sleep. He hoped he didn't feel to awkward in her space.

With a gentle knock to the door to announce her presence, Mizuki slid the key right in and unlocked her door before she poked her head, "Are you decent?", she asked, her eyes closed just in case as she stepped inside and closed the door behind her, "I think you slept a full eight hours, I really hope this doesn't screw up your sleeping schedule, though", she commented softly, turning around to face the vampire.

"So, the Black Market, from what I've heard, is currently located under Brooklyn Bridge and the way to get in is to be invited in. I'm sure we'll be able to catch the attention of some fairy or troll to help guide us", she hummed...or rather hoped, "...It's quite a ways from here, though. So, I was thinking we could just get a cab", she stated, "Let me just change out of my day clothes and heels, and then we can go", she hummed.

Mizuki rested her bag down as she slid out her sketchbook, the Shakespearean tomes, and a few other miscellaneous things that weren't necessary to bring tonight. With that, she went to her closet and pulled out random articles of clothing before she headed to the bathroom where she washed her face, tied her short hair back, and began to dress in more comfortable clothing for tonight's...adventure...She was also happy she was able to freshen up a little...she's been out all day and her social battery was starting to drain...But, she shook her head, raising her hands up to pat her cheeks in determination. Someone needed her and she wasn't about to disappoint them. She stared at her own reflection, seeing her own exhaustion and her own paranoia that stirred within her gaze. Mizuki took a deep breath, slowly let it out, before letting out one single nod.

Once she was dressed in a casual t-shirt, jeans, and a pair of sneaks she slid out of the bathroom, stuffed her wallet, phone, and keys into a tote bag before she turned to Theodore and beamed up at the vampire, "There! Sorry about that, I can only be in restrictive clothing for so long", she stated, happy to wear something a little more loose and breathable.

Knowing Theodore wanted to get there as soon as possible, Mizuki walked to the front door and looked towards her space that looked...lived in. She smiled lightly, the faint smell of Theodore clinging to her sheets lingered over the air as she slid out and waited for the vampire. As they walked, she looked to him, wondering if...now was the right time to talk to him about what she had seen...no, he just woke up. She should give it some time, "How did you sleep? I hope it wasn't too uncomfortable being in a stranger's home", she stated softly, "Also, do you need to be back home at a specific time...? Layla must be worried", she frowned.

Spoiler: Mizuki Outfit Change

 

[Pepsionne]

Theodore
Location: Mizuki's loft, underneath the Brooklyn Bridge
Mood: Focused​

Once dressed and waiting for the familiar vibration of his phone to notify him for Mizuki's response, Theodore began poking around the small apartment. He ran his fingers gently over the little trinkets that lined the built in shelves and counter spaces around the walls.

It felt odd to him, to be looking through Mizuki's things like this. A fluttering feeling skipped through his chest. He felt like a little kid again, scared of getting in trouble by his parents.

Mizuki trusted him with this apartment. Trusted him enough to enter into a space that seemed so far an extension of herself, an extension of her privacy. He shouldn't feel flighty getting to know her.

Theodore rightened his posture, gaze set on the kitchen. Mizuki had said there were blood packs in the fridge, and he hadn't fed in over a day. He felt the familiar hunger begin to flow through his veins. His fangs itched.

A wave of cool air hit his legs as he opened the fridge. His eyes locked onto the blood packs immediately, instinctively. He reached for the pack, muscles tense to counteract the desperation building in his movements. His pupils were slit instinctively. Samantha had warned him not to go too long between feedings. The longer he waited, the more desperate he got, the more animalistic he became. He hated that about himself.

Theodore took a deep breath, closing the refrigerator door gently. The bright light and cold buzz emanating from within ceased, and the apartment regained its calming effect. He opened the blood pack with his teeth, spitting out the tiny piece of plastic into his palm.

Once the thick, metallic taste of blood filled his mouth he felt an overwhelming sense of calm and relief. Theodore sat on the small couch that lined the wall of the apartment. He took small sips of the blood so as to not down it all in one gulp and create an insatiable sense of thirst that lingered long after his appetite had been filled. A trick Samantha had taught him to overcome his natural vampiric nature.

A light buzzing pattern vibrated in his pocket. It was Mizuki, notifying that she was on her way over. Theodore hoisted himself up from the couch and placed the now empty blood pack in the trash. He pulled his arms up above his head to stretch, a strained groan accompanying the movement.

His gaze lingered over the messy sheets from the bed, a feeling of guilt washing over him He couldn't just leave it like that could he? Theo walked over quickly and straightened the bed up, but it wasn't as neat as it had been before.

He moved back over to the couch and sat down, scrolling through his phone absently while he waited.

A soft knock brought him out of his haze, followed by Mizuki's tentative voice reaching out saying, "Are you decent?"

"Yeah," Theodore responded, "Come in, please."

He smiled as she came in with closed eyes, her worry focused on his sleeping schedule. Sure, it'd be changed from what it had been, but what hadn't since last night? His whole world had changed far from anything he remembered.

"Don't worry about me," He smiled once she opened her eyes again. "I'll manage. I've got a good amount of sleep in me now, everything else is my future self's dilemma."

Theo's brow furrowed as Mizuki spoke of the black market. They had to be invited in, huh? Interesting way of keeping certain unwanted angelic figures from lurking around and catching wind of some of the more illegal activities going on there.

"Take your time," He responded with a gesture of his hand, offering her to go ahead.

He watched her begin to unburden herself from her things, setting down her sketchbook, the library books, and whatever other unnecessary things she had been carrying with her. Mizuki's movements were stiffer than they had been before she had left. Rigid, afraid. Had something happened? He searched her figure as she moved, distracted by her own tasks. His eyes were a deep grey in the warm light of the apartment.

Once Mizuki retreated to the bathroom to change and freshen up, Theodore's eyes landed on the Shakespeare novels. Might as well give the code another once over before they headed out. His mind was clear this time, his focus recalibrated.

Theodore reached out for the small pile of books, trying to slide the second novel out from underneath. Clumsily enough, the books tilted to the side, leaving Mizuki's sketchbook a clean ramp to slide off of the table and down onto the floor. Theodore winced, cursing under his breath. She seemed so attached to the sketchbook.

He leaned forward to pick up the book from the floor, eyes widening in curiosity as the page it landed on was raised up, something keeping it from laying flat against the rest of the pages. He gently picked the book up and turned the page, fingers gliding over the ragged torn edge of a missing page. He ran his fingers over the surface of where it should have lain, the impression of pencil marks dipping under his touch. There had been something written in here with a harsh touch. An angry touch. It was hard for him to imagine that it could have been Mizuki, who had only shown him kindness. Was it Katarina?

With one swift movement, Theodore closed the sketchbook and placed it on the pile neatly as it had been before. He stood up as Mizuki exited the bathroom, changed into a more comfortable outfit than the one before.

"Of course," He responded with a nod, his demeanor expertly disguising his startling discovery mere seconds before.

He followed Mizuki outside of the apartment, waiting patiently for her to turn off the lights and lock the door.

"It was a pretty deep sleep," He said, rubbing the back of his hair. "I don't even think I dreamed. It was just a solid chunk of lost time but--I feel refocused, energized to solve this mystery we seemed to have stumbled into." He cast a sideways smile. "Besides, you're hardly a stranger."

"I'm sure Layla has enough on her plate right now with the Vieru," He said. "As odd as it sounds, the best thing I can do for her now is to just stay away. Otherwise she'd just fuss over me constantly and spread herself even more thin. I'll stop by in the morning but I don't want to be there too long. I'm too--" He paused, his eyes drifting up to the ceiling in thought. "too expected to be there," He finished.

The night air was much cooler than he had last remembered. The bite of winter was beginning to bare its fangs. He let out a deep sigh, refreshed at the hovering shade of night and the energizing feeling of the moon's rays.

Theodore waved down the first taxi he could find, the process taking longer than he had hoped since they were on a more secluded side street. He opened the door and gestured for Mizuki to enter before him. Once she was in the car, he entered as well, sitting back in the seat with a puff of breath.


"Can you take us to the Brooklyn Bridge?" Theodore asked the taxi driver. The man's face furrowed into a look of confusion, prompting Theo to elaborate. "Furman street," He said. "By the park."

The driver nodded with understanding before moving them down the street and into the busy flow of moving traffic.

Theodore glanced at Mizuki tentatively. He wanted to ask her if something had happened, but he didn't know if he had a place. Sure, she trusted him with her apartment and she helped him with the code, but both did not directly concern her internal wellbeing. Did she trust him enough to open up about personal matters? After all, as acquainted as they seemed, there was still so much baggage yet to be unpacked.

He bit his lip to force back the questions that itched to be spoken and turned to look out at the bright lights speeding by out of the window.

Once near their destination, the Brooklyn Bridge towering up high above them like a giant, Theodore thanked the taxi driver and handed him a bill from his wallet quickly, before Mizuki could get the chance to pay. He shot her a glance from the side of his eye before hoisting himself out from the car.

A cold breeze blew in from the river, carrying with it a stabbing sense of dread. Theodore didn't know why he felt so paranoid about visiting the black market. His eyes wandered to the fee humans lingering about the tourist section they were currently in. In their eyes, Theodore and Mizuki were the monsters. They were more capable than they seemed, yet the vulnerability of being so near rumored demons bore its way through his sense of security. How did fae live like this all the time?

Theodore began moving up and away from the river, away from the tourist area and into the darker, more secluded part of the bridge.

"So--Do we just sort of wander around until we bump into a fairy or a goblin or some sort?" He looked around them curiously. "Or is there some way we're supposed to attract them. I haven't been around many supernaturals besides vampires. I guess I'm still a baby in that regard."

He smirked playfully as the area around them began to dip further and further into darkness. He instinctively moved closer to Mizuki. Whether the instinct was to protect, or be protected, he didn't know.

The sound of human conversation trailed off into a faint nothingness, leaving them with only the dull roar of car wheels rolling over asphalt far above them.

 

[Razvi-sama]

​

Mizuki Chiba
Mood: Wary, frightened
Location: Mizuki's Loft | Brooklyn Bridge​

The faint smell of blood lingered in the air.

Mizuki stepped into her apartment cautiously, not wishing to suddenly barge into the space in case Theodore was still getting dressed. She would never try to invade on his privacy in such a way. When she stepped into her loft, though...she immediately began to notice a few things. First, it was the smell of blood that lingered faintly in the air. Rabbit's blood, to be more specific. Oh! So, he was able to feed in the end, that was good. She finished the contents inside the blood pack she had stored away in her bag earlier that afternoon, so she was feeling satisfied, at the moment. She could also smell his presence heavily over her couch and kitchen area, not just her bed...there was even a lingering scent that came from the bathroom which communicated to Mizuki that he actually took her suggestion of taking a shower. If she focused on Theodore, himself...she could decipher the sweet smelling honey shampoo she really liked to buy and a eucalyptus mint body wash. Her scent...was on Theodore...Oh. Her cheeks tinted in a soft hue at the thought.

Another thing she noticed once she was given permission to open her eyes, with her keen vampiric gaze...was that a few things had been shifted about. Just by a few inches, but she was very particular about the positioning of the little trinkets and potted plants she had decorated around her home. She wondered if some of the items had brought great intrigue over Theodore. She would be more than happy to share the stories behind such souvenirs with him, if he ever had the time or interest. Maybe he had a few of his own, which was natural considering their age...

Though, she didn't allow herself to linger on such thoughts for very long. Mizuki peeked up towards Theodore and then over to her bed where she saw that the covers and pillows were neatly tugged together. Well, as neatly as Theodore was able to manage. His attempt was appreciated and it showed in the way she smiled. He had been quite busy in her loft, it seemed.

Mizuki padded further inside the apartment, closing the door securely behind her as Theodore insisted that she had nothing to worry about, "Well, I suppose with everything going on...your sleep schedule is the last of your concerns...that's pretty fair", she hummed, "Plus, we are creatures of the night, so I suppose this is more characteristic and on brand to who...we are", she added in soft notes, her attention drifting towards somewhere distant before she returned her attention to Theodore. She offered him a smile.

Mizuki seemed to grow lost within Theodore's features, the note she found at the bistro causing her smile to disappear, before she shook herself out of her daze and began to explain to the vampire a few details about the Black Market that she had heard whisperings about previously. Security was rater tight for newcomers, as they wanted to ensure that the peace remained. But, before they headed out...she needed to get out of these clothes.

After excusing herself, Mizuki stepped out of the room after gathering a few articles of clothing and slipped into the bathroom to gently close the door behind her. She leaned back heavily against the wooden frame, a soft sigh escaping her...and when she looked up to see her reflection...she saw her own exhaustion reflected back at her. She frowned as she was starting to feel a little overwhelmed and a soft tiny hiccup of a sob bubbled against her chest. Ah, but she supposed she didn't really have time for a fully blown mental breakdown, did she now?

No, no...Mizuki brushed away a stray tear and went about washing her face with cold water, tying her hair back and sliding on clothes that would bring the most comfort to her...she even felt as if she could finally breath, again.

Mizuki slicked her hair back and gave herself a silent little pep talk, encouraging herself onwards. With a single nod to the mirror, Mizuki threw her dirty clothes into a nearby hamper before she stepped out of the bathroom, pausing...when Theodore suddenly stood up before her...and he was standing close to the pile of books resting over the counter. She cocked her head to the side inquisitively, but didn't really question it. Maybe her sudden appearance startled him, who knew.

Mizuki brushed past him and gathered up her belongings, practically scooping them up into her arms before she padded across the room to settle her items over the nightstand beside her bed...except her sketchbook. That she shoved under one of the pillows, a frown dressing her lips. She...didn't want Theodore looking inside, as there were...too many sketches of him inside. It would be hard to explain.

~​

With one last breath, Mizuki stood up straight and collected a black cap and a pastel windbreaker jacket before she began to shove things into her tote back. Giving the apartment a passing glance, she finally turned to Theodore who simply stood there patiently for her and it was something she appreciated. He wasn't pressuring her or motioning impatiently.

Mizuki stepped towards the front door and gestured for him to follow her. She went through the general motions of turning off the lights and locking the door, before she took confident steps forward and towards the elevator. She peeked towards Theodore, expressing her concerns over his sleep and experience within her apartment. But, she was happy to hear he was able to sleep rather deeply...his body must have been begging him for some rest, "Oh wow, a dreamless sleep", she giggled, "...that wasn't sleep, Theodore, that was a mini-coma", she teased softly. Though, she seemed to pause at Theodore's little comment about her, casting a glance his way with a sheepish demeanor. Well, she suppose he was right. But, she...wouldn't really know what to call what they had. Friendship? No, no, she wouldn't dare call herself such a thing. Simple acquaintances and mystery buddies, maybe. "R...Right", she murmured, sounding a little unsure.

Though, as they moved on to the topic of Layla, Mizuki nodded along as they stepped into the elevator, "I see...well, I suppose I would be the worst person to offer some sort of insight as I'd be keeping all of this a secret from Gabriella, but...Layla seems like the type who will worry about you whether or not you're there. So, maybe at least assure her that you're okay. You did suffer a loss, after all...", she hummed, staring down at her bandages. Ah, she didn't re-bandage her fingers. They looked a little worn and picked at.

...too expected to be there. "I understand", Mizuki stated, offering him a sympathetic smile, "...my loft is open for you whenever you wish, I can even make a copy of the key for you. There must be too many eyes on your right now, and I can only imagine how pressuring that must be...I'm sorry that this is something you have to go through....though, I understand not wanting to be home right now...", she stated in a weak mumble

With one last wave towards Robert, Mizuki and Theodore stepped into the brisk cool air that seemed to hang around in these coming months. Fall was creeping up upon them and it showed in the way their breaths puffed out before them, in the way the leaves trickled away over the chilly autumn air that whisked around them. The moon shone above them with her celestial radiance and Mizuki silently thanked the heavenly body that graced them with her presence, who gentle caressed their skin with her luminous rays.

Mizuki stood beside Theodore as he called for a cab and she realized the great difference in height between them. All of his movements seemed so effortless and...refined. She peeked away, watching as the cab rolled up before them. She softly thanked Theodore for opening the door and slid inside until the far end of the seat. She kept her bag to herself, over her lap and watched the back and forth between Theodore and the cab driver, only for her to softly laugh at the silent pause of confusion between the two.

Finally, they were on their way and Mizuki couldn't help the fluttering that erupted in her stomach. She was rightfully nervous. She felt as if they were heading towards the lion's den. Though, between the soft rumbling from the car's engine and the passing lights all around them...she felt a little more soothed. She slumped back against the car's seat, staring out the window and keeping her body language away from Theodore. Knees were facing opposite of him, her body holding a small tilt as if she was offering the man some privacy. They were silent, but Mizuki felt comfortable within the silence, and quite frankly...she didn't really have the energy to play nice. She simply took small, even breaths to collect herself as this was one of the few moments she felt she could finally...stop.

Though, she couldn't help but feel...as if someone was watching her and naturally she peeked over her shoulder to see if Theodore had something to say...but he was looking away...New York's city lights dancing playfully over his beautiful features. She must have imagined it, she supposed.

Once they arrived, Mizuki rummaged through her bag to pull out her wallet, only to see...Theodore quickly shove a bill towards the driver. He even looked her way as if to say 'I won', "Hey!", she giggled out as she slid out of the cab. She offered the vampire a cheeky little grin, tempted to nudge him playfully...only to stop herself. They...weren't that close for her to just casually touch him whenever she wished. But, her smile remained, "I'm paying next time", she announced, eyeing the vampire from the corner of her gaze before they motioned forward. Together.

The wind howled all around them as if to add to the heavy environment that lingered under the bridge, the river roaring powerfully. Mizuki could hear the soft chattering of humans as they walked about and hardly paid them any attention. They were just another couple of tourists to them, when in reality...they were a human's natural predator. She sighed before she took a step forward, not wanting to linger on such unnecessary thoughts for very longer. Really, she wanted to get this over with and pray for a safe return...

At this point, Mizuki began to follow Theodore as they directed themselves under the bridge. It was actually a great idea to come so late a night, because hardly anyone stuck around such lonesome areas. It was just the two of them for the time being, "I suppose so", Mizuki hummed softly as she glanced around them, "I went to a few bookstores owned by witches or any other creature, and I was given very vague information. They simply stated that our best luck was to run into another nightly creature in front of the Black Market's entrance", she added, peeking up to Theodore, "As for attracting them...I guess our best bet is to just wave one down", she chuckled softly, nodding to Theodore, "Our little clans really keep us segregated from other creatures, don't they?", she said, almost a criticism of the clan's structure. Though, his little comment about him being a baby only made her snort out in amusement, "Is that so? Now that I think about it, I don't know how old you are", she stated, almost in a matter of fact kind of way, "I'm a little over a century old, but the world still holds many secrets from me, so I understand feeling a little...new at all of this. But, as you said...I guess we can learn together, hm?", she beamed up at him, noting his smirk.

The moon's grace was hidden under the watchful and towering presence of the bridge that loomed above them. Darkness began to surround them and Mizuki couldn't help but notice the way Theodore took a step...towards her. Oh. She ducked her head sheepishly, though didn't give any indication of moving away.

The humans' nonsensical conversations began to trickle away as they were now directly under the bridge passing by structure after structure, until—.

A light shone behind Mizuki as the vampire twisted her attention behind her to see a cloaked figure standing beside a large, worn down wooden door that hadn't been there before. Actually, the figure wasn't there before either, and she knew this because she was peeking around the corner of each structure. She could hardly see the stranger's face or body...all she could perceive was that they were...incredibly tall.

Mizuki's hand shot out towards Theodore, gripping at his arm gently as if to call for his attention as she looked up towards the figure before them. A figure who held a wooden torch, and something told her it was a flame that would never burn out.

"Um—...I'm sorry to bother, but I don't suppose you'd know where the Black Market is?", Mizuki asked softly.

"...my, yes of course", the figure's crooked finger slid from under the raggedy cloak and pointed at the entrance beside him, "Just past this door and down a flight of steps. But, in order to allow you access, I will need to know your names and you will need to answer me a riddle...".

...a riddle? How cliché. Mizuki frowned, "My name is Mizuki Chiba", she murmured softly, almost hesitantly as she eyed the stranger critically, "Which riddle? And, what happens if we answer incorrectly?".

"If you answer incorrectly, then you don't get to go through, simple as that. It means the Black Market isn't worthy enough for you to go in. It goes as follows...You measure my life in hours and I serve you by expiring. I’m quick when I’m thin and slow when I’m fat. The wind is my enemy...", chuckled the ominous stranger. He turned his attention towards the tall, lanky fellow beside her and grinned, "...and may I be graced with your name?", he hummed, "If the pretty boy is able to answer my riddle, then you both may go in—".

"Oh, Barnaby! Come now! Do not tease the children", chuckled a warm voice behind Mizuki, his lips gently brushing against the vampire's ear and his hand gingerly resting against her shoulder.

Mizuki gasped sharply, her hands rising up to her ear as she tensed and bolted away from the presence behind her. She stumbled backwards and nearly shoved into Theodore's chest, but kept her back pressed against him instinctively wanting to keep herself safe, "...d-don't touch me", she hissed out in a low growl.

The stranger blinked, frowning as he rose his hands up apologetically, "Ah, sorry, I didn't mean to startle you. Either of you", he offered a soft chuckle and a kind smile...and when he smiled his lips curled up to reveal his fangs. He was kin, "I was trying to help you, I promise. You see, Barnaby likes to tease newbies with silly declarations of rumors or whatever. I can guide you in, if you two wish?", he hummed.

 

[Pepsionne]

Theodore
Mood: Amused, skeptical
Location: Underneath the Brooklyn Bridge​

Theodore couldn't help but chuckle at Mizuki's comment. He guessed it was sort of a mini coma. He didn't get dreamless sleeps often, but was grateful tonight was one of the exceptions. A chunk of nothingness, no feelings or thoughts, was exactly what he had needed.

He noticed Mizuki's tone waver at his quip about their familiarity. Even her body language in the taxi, legs and body tilted away from him and out the window, suggested that she was trying to distance herself from him. The action was confusing. Not often did he find himself getting mixed signals from someone he had spent this much time with. His ability to read people was formulaic, predictable. He tested the waters, found their worldview and aligned himself with it. He became the perfect personality for them. With Mizuki, though, he found himself floundering for a personality, like a chameleon caught out in the open air. Who did she want to see in him? Who did she want him to be?

Her kindness suggested he was at least on the right track, venturing into an unknown feeling and side of himself he wasn’t sure of. It felt--natural. Authentic. It had been so long since he felt like this. Was this how his personality really was, left uninformed by someone else's desires?

Theodore would have to find a way to pay her back for all of the kindness Mizuki had offered him this far. She had even offered to give him a copy of the key to her apartment, which he had politely refused in the fear of overstepping her boundaries. His eyes lifted up to the ceiling of the taxi in thought. Maybe that was it, what was pushing her into the background. Boundaries. It was all happening extremely fast, he couldn’t blame her for needing her own way of stepping on the breaks.

Once out of the taxi and into the cool night air, Theodore shot a devious smile at the sound of Mizuki’s voice insisting she would get the next expense. "Sure, if you're quick enough," He jested back.

Theodore stuck his hands in the pockets of his jackets as he walked, bracing his body against the breeze that pushed into their backs. He let out a sigh of defeat. "Wander around, huh?" His eyes scanned the landscape before them. There wasn't a soul in sight. "I guess we'll need lady luck on our side, then."

He listened to Mizuki talk about her age and her past experiences with witches. It was difficult for him to grasp the concept of time when it came to vampires. He was getting better at it since he had watched his friends and family age, while he himself was frozen in time, but it was still difficult to fathom what kind of person Mizuki was all those years ago. That she had a completely different life, was a completely different person all those years ago. Had she changed dramatically, had she loved and lost others?

He thought about Samantha, and all the stories she would tell him when they spent the night drinking. She was like a fountain, full of cascading memories, all glittering and bright in his eyes. He was still struggling to grasp having lived through the technological age, let alone live through the rise and fall of an empire. He would learn, though. He would have to.

"Hm, I guess I never really did tell you how old I am." Theo smiled playfully. "A little over a century old. I would never have guessed, you age well."

His expression twitched at the thought of his age, at the thought of the moment his aging became frozen in time. "I was born in '62, so that would make me--" He looked up at the inky night sky as he thought, its color tinted a hazy orange from the light pollution of the city. "--uh...58 years old." He said. "Barely lived a minute compared to those on the council."

"I still have a lot to learn, but yeah, I'd be great to learn it with someone else for once. Samantha was always teaching me, never learning."

The playful expression shattered from his face once Mizuki's figure stiffened in reaction to a glowing light appearing suddenly behind them. He turned to look in the direction she had as well, his adrenaline spiking suddenly.

Theodore's breath hitched in fear once the sight of the figure fully registered. He glanced towards Mizuki, who began speaking to the new arrival. She gave her name softly, with some reservation, but nonetheless uttered it aloud for the creature to hear. To know. His brow furrowed. He didn't want to give this creature his name, especially after it had taken on such a new weight with Samantha's arrest.

The creature’s raspy voice chuckled out a wry riddle, one that seeped through the cracks of Theodore’s attention. He caught only words, their shape failing to take a concrete form in his mind. His stomach felt like it had dropped out onto the rocky asphalt beneath them. When the creature looked his way, offering him a grin, a chill shot down his spine like a lightning bolt.

Luckily, a stranger interjected the creature’s request of him, stealing everyone’s attention over to him effortlessly. He turned to look at the source of the voice, catching the light touch resting on Mizuki’s shoulder and his lips brushing against her ear.

Theodore’s expression visibly darkened seeing Mizuki so upset by an unwanted touch. He placed a hand on her arm reassuringly when he felt her back press into him.

The stranger adopted a sheepish demeanor, his intention apparently having been strayed off into offense. Theodore glanced quickly at the creature when the stranger uttered his name. Barnaby.

The sight of fangs caught his attention. So this newcomer was a vampire. He didn’t recognize him. Either he was in town for Samantha’s party, which if he was he would recognize Theodore and the new meaning his recognition came with, or he was a rouge. Theo couldn’t decide which was worse.

“What do you want in return,” Theodore asked the stranger. “You’re a vampire, that’s one creature I know well. Very rarely do I find a vampire who does things out of pure kindness. There’s always something expected in return.” His gaze was heavy as it bore into the stranger’s face. His eyes were an almost inky charcoal in the bleeding haze of light that tried penetrating its way into the thick shroud of darkness around them.

His eyes shot over to Barnaby, who was still standing behind them like a silent, looming statue.

“At least Barnaby was straightforward in his demands. Either we answer the riddle or we leave. We’d be better off cooperating with him.” Theodore stated.

 

[Razvi-sama]

​

Francis Boisseau | Mizuki Chiba
Mood: Intrigued, playful | Wary, frightened
Location: Brooklyn Bridge​

Sure, if you're quick enough. "You cheeky vampire", Mizuki gasped out in a playful giggle, amusement coloring her frame. Oh, she would absolutely be quick enough. She would make sure of it. That lighthearted little moment they shared only seemed to finally manage to soften Mizuki, to lower her defenses if but a moment as a faint smile remained on her lips as they walked.

They walked forward with hope that this would be an easy journey, with the moon shining brightly against their backs as if to bolster them onwards. Though, Mizuki wasn't all too happy about how blindly they were approaching the situation. Sure, they had some cryptic words from a few Shakespearean plays, but...what were they to do once they were standing before the Gates of Hell? "Lady luck and more...may the goddess Herself bless our path", she hummed in soft prayer, her hands clasped together momentarily before they fell to her sides.

Though, the topic of age was brought up, and she hoped he didn't take offense to her curiosity. While vampires tended to not care, there were those who were significantly younger and would feel less than due to not having met what some vampires thought was needed in order to be taken seriously. However, it was their younger vampires that Mizuki wholeheartedly believed should be the backbone of their communities as they understood the modern day struggle much better than other vampires who lived comfortable and prettily behind their riches and luxuries. Riches and luxuries they accumulated after years, and privileges that have made them seem disconnected from their current day-to-day.

"Well, I suppose the topic never came up, as it could be considered a little sensitive...plus, I think this is the most we've spent together in a single day", Mizuki commented casually, only to soon laugh at his comment about her age, "Why, thank you~! The secret is green tea and coming close to death", she jested morbidly, winking to the man beside her before she fell into a soft series of giggles.

Mizuki sighed contentedly before she rose her attention back to Theodore, noting a hint of discomfort before he began to explain his own origins. Oh. "I'm sorry if I'm prying, you don't have to answer if you're not comfortable", she assured softly, but he quickly eased her worries...and her smile lightly returned as he announced he was from 1962. Oh. She...imagined him to be much older from how cultured he was. Then again, he still had this...fire inside of him that many who held centuries in their back pockets lacked. It's what she found to be one of his most intoxicating features. His passion, his drive. His...youth, as ironic as it may sound. She wasn't much older than him, but it was something she was feeling was slowly slipping away from her with each passing day in the Lasombra. Maybe if they...spent more time together, she could learn a thing or too..."Those in the Council are probably centuries, thousands, if not millenniums years old", she hummed, "...though, do not envy them. They've lost their humanity a long time ago and that's nothing to celebrate", she said simply, before she beamed up at him, "Must have been quite the adventure being born in the '60s, though. You age well", she used his words against him before she playfully skipped ahead, sighing dreamily at the thought of Samantha...she hoped the vampire was okay...

"You couldn't have asked for a better mentor, Theodore, seriously. I see she's taught you a lot, already. You're very wise, Theodore...you remind me a lot of her, I can see why she entrusted you with the clan over others who have more years of experience. Age means nothing, and I guess that's something one learns with...well, age", Mizuki chortled.

~​

Though...it seems like they were abruptly interrupted, as a warm glow veiled their figures from behind, bringing attention to the tall...eerie figure that stood at a distance, and when she turned to question the large figure...unsure of...what it was...his voice echoed out in a raspy croak, causing chill to run down the vampires spine. He even spoke cryptically and Mizuki was hesitant to provide her name...not knowing why it was needed, but...As she peeked over towards Theodore, she knew how important this was for him. They needed answers, and...if all it took was to give her name and answer a silly riddle...so be it.

As Mizuki occasionally shifted her gaze towards Theodore, she could...feel his blood rushing under his skin, she noticed how tense his body had become and naturally...he was even afraid. This was barely the entrance to the Black Market and they were already tried. Should they give up? It seemed like Theodore's words were caught in his throat as the stranger grinned sickeningly their way...its teeth crooked and disfigured disgustingly...causing Mizuki to grimace.

Mizuki was about to tug Theodore away and insist this wasn't worth it, but...soon...She felt a pressure against her shoulder and something soft tickle at her ear. She gasped, shooting backwards into her partner and nearly colliding into Theodore's chest. She choked out of surprise, only to soon hiss out a growl towards the strange man—vampire who dared touch her. If she had to take action against him, she happily would—yet...it was Theodore's touch that seemed to bring Mizuki back down from whatever storm that had suddenly brewed inside her. Oh. She...wasn't alone and she found great comfort in that. Instinctively, her body leaned further against his chest and her expression softened from the twisted annoyance that had been there previously.

Thankfully, the other vampire didn't take offense to Mizuki's harsh reaction. Instead, he rose his hands up innocently to show he truly meant no harm. She even heard a scoff come from Barnaby as the vampire addressed him.

"You're such a party pooper, Francis", muttered out the stranger figure.

Francis chortled in amusement as he looked to the creature, "It's natural for me to want to protect the children, love", he nearly purred the man's way before he returned his attention back towards the two vampires who looked at him...warily. Ah, he did not blame them. Their kind was not known to playing...nice, so to say.

Francis kept his hands up as he noted the one he had heard mutter out that her name Mizuki had her nails sharpened and her pupils in slits. She was aggravated and most likely afraid. While, the other...was paranoid and cautious. Interesting. "I am a vampire, thank you for pointing that out, kind sir. Now, that seems to be a very general statement that you are making, and I apologize...but I take a bit of offense from such remarks. You don't even know me and you're already branding me as some sort of selfish goon!", he gasped out in mock offense, his hand lowering down to his chest as if his heart was absolutely tearing into two, "Good, sir, you have wounded me with your words...", he sighed, near tears as he heard Barnaby scoff once more, causing Francis to break from his silly theatrics.

Francis laughed and smiled a roguish grin towards the vampire, "...I actually am not expecting anything in return. You can rot down in the Black Market for all I care, little one. I just so happen to be going the same way and I can understand how overwhelming the Market can be for newcomers...and if you were already off put by Barnaby, then—", he whistled sharply, "You're in for a surprise inside", he stated.

"Let me just make one thing clear", Francis hummed as he pointed at the two, "...you don't scare me. I am not threatened by either of you, and I easily just walk away...so, what will it be? You either walk in with me and I help you to your destination, or you fumble about like a pair on infants thrown to the wolves?", he added, his tone low and soft.

...what was his deal? Mizuki frowned, glowering at the man, "Don't talk to him like that", she hissed between her teeth, "...it's natural for us to be wary, especially giving the current climate in our community, do you not think?", she asked.

Francis blinked, seeming to ponder over what she was telling him...current climate? Did she mean the death of his colleague? Oh, he did not bat a single eye over that, "I suppose so", he soon softened, smiling towards the two, "Look, I meant what I said. I'm not expecting anything in return. It's not like I'm giving you my first born son or anything. Just showing you around and then we'll make our separate ways. If you're not comfortable, though, that's okay", he assured, his tone soft and kind. Changing his approach.

Mizuki frowned, peeking up at Theodore from where she stood...noting their proximity but not doing anything about it. He smelled of her shampoo...She sighed as she looked back to the vampire and shrugged, "...I'm not entirely opposed to it, but what about you?", she whispered up towards Theodore, peeking down to the stranger vampire before them...only to notice the small enamel pin on his shirt...what—Her eyes widened, her body growing rigid.

He was in the Council, that pin was the insignia of the Council! Mizuki didn't say anything, but she did reach to rest her hand on top of Theodore's and gave it a squeeze as if to silently bring his attention to it.

Francis grinned, his brows raising in wonder as his eyes rose up to meet...Theodore's. Of course he knew who he was, who didn't know about Samantha's lost puppy? The girl was a bit of a mystery to him, but that could soon change, "Well?".

 

[Pepsionne]

Theodore
Mood: Sensitive, calculated
Location: Underneath the Brooklyn Bridge​

Theodore grinned darkly at Mizuki’s morbid jest. Coming close to death, that was a way to put it he guessed. Although did it count when someone else had been the one to push you there?

He shook his head, dismissing her feeling of prying. “I think it just eases with time,” He said. “When you live longer, the wounds heal slower. I think it’s just a little raw still.”

Theodore huffed in amusement to hear Mizuki use his own quip against him. The more he was getting to know her, the more she kept surprising him at how easy it was to talk to her. To joke, to laugh. He couldn’t help but think about how difficult it was for him to talk to Katarina. Her attention and desires were always fleeting. At least Mizuki didn’t roll her eyes when he talked about things he was passionate about. She held a similar regard for Samantha as he did. He could hear the sheer amount of reverence as Mizuki spoke rapidly about her. It made his heart sink. So many people looked up to Samantha just as Mizuki did. So why weren’t more rushing to her aid? Why weren’t more people roaring in disapproval of the council’s verdict?

That thought lingered in the back of his mind even through the chilling arrival of their two newest acquaintances. Theodore continued to eye the strange vampire as he quipped back and forth with Barnaby. He seemed very interested in protecting vampire kin, but why?

As the vampire Francis, as Barnaby had called him, began speaking theatrically, a confused look flashed in Theodore’s eyes. He had never met a vampire so--so stereotypically vampire. The dramatics, the sophistication. Well, never met anyone that stereotypical other than himself. Theodore furrowed his brow as Francis brought a hand up to his chest, holding it tightly against the fabric of his shirt like the main character of a Shakespearean tragedy. Was he....actually crying?

Francis quickly flipped the switch from near tears, back to his original demeanor. No, not his original demeanor, but colder, more callous. Theodore cleared his throat after the vampire’s short lecture concerning what he could and could not handle. He didn’t deny that they were naïve, and that they needed help, but they were certainly more capable than his first impression seemed to glean.

Theodore opened his mouth to respond to Francis’ harsh words, but his own comments jammed back into his throat when he heard Mizuki’s stern voice hiss out low into the night air. He was grateful for her interjection. Theodore hated being yelled at or insulted. The words always picked away at him late at night, when all he had was his thoughts. He could already feel the dampening feeling press down in his chest, like someone putting pressure on a cracked beam. He swallowed hard and looked up at Francis, whose gaze waltzed over Mizuki as if he was studying her. The vampire blinked slowly before adjusting his tone for the third time since the beginning of their interaction.

Despite the unwanted touch and harsh words, Mizuki still seemed open to taking Francis up on his offer. It surprised Theodore to see how far her tolerance could stretch. His own enthusiasm for the black market had begun to die down to mere smoking embers. But he couldn’t risk his chance of following this clue further.

Mizuki’s suddenly tight grip constricting his hand pulled Theodore from his thoughts. He glanced down to meet her inky gaze, following the line of her sight to land on--a council insignia. It glinted softly in the murky light. Theodore let out a breath in disbelief, his chest caving in from the action. What was a council member doing here? In the black market? From his own observations since sitting in on Samantha's meeting with the council, they were always kissing up to the order in any way possible. No member would dare be caught mingling close by to illegal activity in the fear of losing even a fraction of angelic favor. As odd as it felt to him in the moment, the thought soothed him about Francis. Clearly he wasn’t as devoted as some of the other members seemed to be.

Theodore swallowed down the fighting urge of trusting a council member. After all, they weren’t the ones who did this to Samantha. It was Maximus’ doing. He was the one who orchestrated the murder of their colleague. Francis was most likely just another puppet on Maximus’ string.

“Okay,” Theodore said. His voice was reluctant, unwilling to be released from his throat. “We’ll go with you.” After a beat, Theodore looked over to Barnaby, the fear from earlier fading away into curiosity. He peered at the creatures oddly formed features. He cracked a sly smile, the tips of his fangs glinting sharply before he turned to follow Francis.

"The answer's a candle, by the way." He called over his shoulder.

 

[Razvi-sama]

​

Francis Boisseau | Mizuki Chiba
Mood: Intrigued, playful | Wary, amazed
Location: Brooklyn Bridge | Black Market​

Mizuki didn't really know what to make of the man before them. He was strange. He flipped between hot and cold too rapidly, and really...she was off put by the way he was speaking to them. As if they were truly the children he kept claiming them to be. Though, she also knew...that she would feel most comfortable with someone who knew their way around the Black Market. So, really...wouldn't it make sense to take the man's offer? He insisted that he wasn't looking for anything in return, simply wanting to extend a helping hand towards one of his own. He sounded sincere, but Mizuki was naturally hesitant no less. Especially...

...when her eyes settled over the Council's insignia that gleamed under the moon's radiance. Her breath nearly caught in her throat and her hand naturally clamped down against Theodore's hand, bringing his attention down to the man's collar where the enamel pin rested. Mocking them. It was as if a bucket of cold water had been fallen on top of her, waking her to the sudden reality that presented itself before them. She had to remind herself that it wasn't necessarily illegal to meander through the Black Market. They were perfectly in their right, as the Black Market didn't solely hold illegal and shady bargains. The Black Market once was highly regarded as a mixing pot of creatures from all over the world. Where cultures collided and mingled to become something beautiful.

Though, Mizuki wasn't sure if the appearance of a member of the Council was good or bad. What did that mean for this man specifically? Where did his allegiances lie? Mizuki searched the man's gaze who looked to them inquisitively, a cocky grin stretching his lips as he eyed these...children.

Mizuki was frozen where she stood, enveloped by both Theodore's form and scent. A scent that lulled and soothed her as she remembered she was not alone in that moment. They were holding hands, basically, caught in an impromptu embrace and Francis drank in the image before him with great amusement. Did they finally notice who was standing right before them?

Finally, the puppy spoke and Francis couldn't help but raise a brow, a soft little 'oh~?' escaping his lips. They both agreed, "Perfect", the vampire cooed softly, "I'm excited that I get to be part of your journey, no matter for how short a time", he hummed politely, already drifting towards the entrance as he didn't wish to linger around any longer. One never knew who would come barging through that door or who hung around the shadows. There were eyes and ears everywhere, after all.

Though, just as Francis reached the worn down wooden door...he paused and glanced back over his shoulder to regard Theodore...who softly addressed Barnaby effortlessly. Cockily. It was actually rather...suave. The vampire's eyes widened as he stared at the young vampire who stood before him, his fangs gleaming impressively under the faint light. Hm. And, when he turned to Barnaby...for once the creature was left mute. Francis burst out in laughter in complete disbelief, "Aw, did one of my children catch your tongue, friend? Good, good! I like you, kid", he winked back to the young man.

Mizuki had kept silent within the small back and forth between the three men, her attention being tugged around as she tried to pay attention to what was being said. The Councilman looked...amused and even a little relieved when they both agreed to accepting his help. She couldn't believe they were already finding themselves in this predicament, but it was the best thing to keep suspicion away from them, because if they actively ran from a Councilman...surely that would seem suspicious, no? And, despite their hesitation, the clear reluctance from Theodore...they took a step towards the vampire. Theodore finally peeled himself away from Mizuki and she had to admit she already...missed his touch. Was that weird?

Mizuki's cheeks felt warm against the cool night as she trailed after Theodore, only to pause when he finally regarded to Barnaby...and answered his riddle. Her eyes widened brightly, clearly impressed. She wasn't good at riddles, especially not in a language that wasn't her mother tongue. Nonetheless, for him to come up with the answer so quickly and with how smooth his delivery was...she nearly melted.

Barnaby let out a soft scoff, though a grin could be seen from under the hood, "...the Market welcome's you, stranger. I'll keep an eye out for you, something tells me that you'll bring...greatness", he hummed cryptically. And, in a blink of an eye...he vanished. Along with the warm light.

Mizuki gasped sharply, taking a step back as she heard a soft chortle escape the Councilman, "Oh Barnaby, always the showman", he added, his hand reaching down towards the golden knocker that dangled over the door. He lifted his hand up and took a firm hold of it before he banged the metal sharply against the rotting wood. A soft, heavenly echo surrounded them and Mizuki was left...a little dazed.

The door opened inwards before the vampire, no one on the other side of it to answer the door. Francis simply called for an opening and the door answered. Completely normal. The vampire stepped forward and beckoned for the little ones to follow.

Mizuki peeked over to Theodore questioningly before she hesitantly took a step forward. Before her...was a grand flight of stairs, a cramped tunnel going downwards and lit up torches on either side. It looked like...a long way down. She frowned, hugging herself a little before she stepped on forward as they descended downwards to the seemingly never ending flight of stairs.

At first, a heavy silence had fallen over them and Mizuki was starting to feel a little restless...it was step after step in this cramped space. No end in sight..."I just realized that we never really got your name, while you have ours", she stated softly, "Also, I imagine you'll want to see some identification from us", she murmured.

Francis chuckled and waived her off, "No, no, no identification necessary. But, you are absolutely right. I must have forgotten my manners and I do apologize for that", he purred softly towards Mizuki, offering the vampire a wink. She frowned, clearly not enjoying the extra attention. Interesting, "My name is Francis Boisseau, at your service, little ones".

"...nice to meet you", Mizuki murmured in a hushed tone, "...and you are with the...Council, right?", she added, her voice soft and meek, eyeing the man warily.

Francis paused, eyeing the steps ahead before a...saddened smile graced his lips in that moment, "Yes...I am. Is that a problem?", he asked.

"No, no", Mizuki quickly corrected, "Just...making sure", she murmured, her gaze falling over the man's profile to note...he seemed a little...resigned--? She quickly became distracted as she looked on ahead to see—...Ahead of them, was a dark tunnel and there was a light at the end of the tunnel. In the distance, soft murmurs and laughing could be heard. The market was in full swing. Francis peeked back to the two vampires and offered them a sweet, encouraging smile before he guided them through the tunnel and down to the entrance of the Black Market.

As they stepped through, the Black Market came into fruition. Before their very eyes was revealed to be a veritable bacchanalia of mythological, fantasy, and supernatural creatures from all over the world and from multiple cultures. It was a marketplace of significant magnitude, containing hundreds of booths and shopping centers for the strange and fantastic beings of the world. Many different items and goods can be purchased there, be they food, clothing, items, and more. It is built both out of supernatural structures and cannibalized pieces of the New York sewer system; many pipes can be seen lining it along it's outer walls. Like most marketplaces it is a place of extreme activity, with pedestrian choked road ways and narrow streets.

The variety of creatures and beings that shop and loiter in the Black Market are too numerous to count, but among the ranks, there can be seen: trolls, goblins, ogres, dwarves, some risky witches and mages, sorcerers, elves, and even Lovecraftian Old Ones floating above or hidden in a corner. A few dragons hiding in a few caverns. Fairies can be seen fluttering above the heads of the crowd, along many other flight-like creatures. What seemed to be orb-like gases of light filled the area above, making it look like the stars blessed the market that day.

Mizuki stepped through the archway that led them into the bustling Market. Footsteps, yelling, talking, singing, and laughing could be heard ahead, along with the occasional heckling and chanting of the vendors. The vampire's eyes widened as she took in the sight of the eternal and magical space that manifested before them.

There were worn down structures and areas that were made of ivory and porcelain, and the finest of marbles. The stands were grand and the items doubled in size. Lights naturally made by fairies, elves, and dragons danced everywhere. Bioluminescent plants fluttered all over the place, and artificially made fire that never went away. Clean, crisp water that glowed like the finest of golds flowed down the streets from a fountain in the middle of the plaza, water that served to restore one's energy...Trees lined up along multiple waterways that webbed throughout the whole Black Market.

Mizuki began to shuck off her jacket, feeling a little warm despite the cool autumn air. She heard Francis chuckle as he slid off his own trench coat, "An eternal pocket of Spring had been created within the space, it's pleasantly warm no matter the season. Also, the steam from the pipes don't help", he stated, pointing upwards as he watched Mizuki tilt her head back.

Francis winked to Theodore before he took a step forward and began to guide them down the main road that led towards the center of the Black Market's Plaza and Mizuki drank in everything that surrounded her. She unconsciously would raise her hand up towards Theodore and tugged at his sleeve as she was beginning to point out the shiniest of objects she'd become distracted with and entranced by. Items that were said to have disappeared, or artifacts that were of the rarest of collections. All here! Delicacies, foods, and drinks from so many different cultures, finery they never dreamed to have been able to even have a taste of.

Goblins looked hungrily at the stalls with such longing, trolls managed to scare off the more skittish of creatures, or even humanoid dragons let out the most feral of growls when someone would wink at them wanting to scare away any potential suitor.

Francis was just happy to introduce this wonderful world to these little newbies. He would look over his shoulder as Mizuki continued to eagerly tug at Theodore's sleeve and gasp and giggle and...it was all so magical...so many creatures she had never laid her eyes upon before...

As they walked through, they found themselves in the heart of the Black Market, a large plaza full of song and dance. The plaza had a small stage where a band played joyful, folk music and creatures danced a hearty polka. Giants who made the ground beneath tremble ever so slightly danced to the sides. In the very center, was the fountain that was covered in overgrown roots and moss.

Mizuki smiled, looking like an innocent child suddenly thrust into a toy shop, "...I...never imagined it would all look so...—".

"Colorful?", Francis hummed, raising a brow towards the vampire.

Mizuki nodded, standing at the edge of the plaza as she watched creatures become merry with drink and song. Absolutely breath taking.

Francis turned to the two vampires, "And, where will you two be going?", he asked, "What are you looking for?".

Mizuki blinked. Oh. Right, she...nearly forgot. She peeked over towards Theodore, "...we're just...browsing. We heard some rumors and wanted a night out, de-stress and such...", she murmured, the best answer she could come up with.

"Oh! So, a date. Cute!", Francis chuckled, only to quickly earn a sharp shake of their head from Mizuki.

"O-Oh, no, nothing like that", Mizuki quickly corrected, not wanting him to get the wrong idea. They were just...mystery buddies.

Oh? Francis grinned, eyeing Theodore, "...well, date or not, I suggest you venture left. It's the food market that takes up a large part of the Black Market. Many exotic foods and drinks will be found there", he assured. And, Francis was right. Mizuki took in a deep breath and the smell of food and drink was coming up ahead, "It's the...Food Market of the Black Market. I honestly think they need a better name for it, but—", he shrugged.

Mizuki looked to Theodore, having finally noticed that she...o-oh! She quickly let go of the vampire's sleeve, having just realized that she was lightly pinching at the fabric, unconsciously. She must have grabbed hold of him to not grow lost in the crowds, but—Mizuki frowned, absolutely crimson with blush as she apologized softly to the vampire. She cleared her throat, stepping away from Theodore to give the man some space, "What do you think about walking around towards that area? Francis recommended it", she hummed.

 

[Pepsionne]

Theodore Griffith | ??? | Terra Maye
Mood: Awed | Mood: unknown | Mood: Impatient, curious
Location: Black Market, The Dead Salamander |Location: The Dead Salamander |Location: The Dead Salamander

Spoiler: The Dead Salamander

​

Theodore smirked at Francis’ teasing of Barnaby. He hadn’t intended to tongue twist the goblin, but after all, words were his job. What would he have to say for his years of journalism if he couldn’t answer a simple riddle? He glanced towards Francis, confusion dripping down his chest. He seemed to be all over the place in his impression of the vampire.

Theodore nodded respectfully at Barnaby. Bring greatness. He chuckled to himself, he sorely wished the goblin’s prediction was true.

Once Francis knocked on the weathered wooden door, an encompassing, powerful hum filled Theodore’s ears. He shook his head, aggravation tearing at his skull. It felt like the noise was filling up in his brain, pushing against the sides of the cavity with a vibrational pressure. The noise began to lose its power in a slow retreat, leaving Theodore feeling vaguely confused and lightheaded.

When the soft white noise of the night took its rightful place once more, the heavenly echo bleeding out from his ears like a stream of water, Theodore’s eyes widened to see the door simply--open. He leaned forward to peer into the long cavern downwards, but there was no one on the other side of the door. Mizuki shot him a look of reluctance furrowing her soft features. He didn’t blame her for her uneasiness. The way down looked daunting. A long, crowded tunnel barely high enough for him not to scrape his head. He smiled gently to her, reassuringly. They would see this through together, there was no turning back now.

Theodore’s breaths were shallow as he descended the staircase. He bent his head slightly to avoid hitting it against the hard surface of the cavern around them. The tight space began to eat away at his ability to breathe, tension and fear filling up the space where the air would be instead. He kept his eyes on the middle of Mizuki’s back, a grounding point to keep him from focusing on just how far down they were going. The thought of all that heavy Earth above them--he didn’t want to think about it.

The small chatter between Mizuki and Francis was a welcome distraction to the intrusive thoughts that hovered around him like the cool damp air of the cavern.

“Francis Boisseu” Theodore thought to himself, turning the name over slowly in his mind. Now that he heard it in full, he did recognize the sound of it from the few council meetings he had sat in on with Samantha. At the time, it was never important enough for him to remember. He would be sure to remember it now.

Mizuki’s reluctance towards the vampire didn’t seem to ease up since they had first met him, though Theodore’s had slid towards leniency. He didn’t blame Mizuki for not wanting to trust the vampire, after all, she had more to lose than he did. She had her clan, her home, the ones she wanted to protect. Theodore had already lost the biggest part of that.

After what felt like ages of traveling down grueling step after step, furthering his distance from the fresh air and night sky outside, the tunnel leveled out and straightened to a wide entrance. Theodore hurried to rush through the small space, not prepared for the world that tunnel would open up to. He blinked once, staring at the dozens of shops and magical items hovering in the air. If it weren’t for the left over pipes of the sewer system still lining the walls, Theo would have thought he was dreaming or on drugs. To think a world like this existed, in a world where even fairy tales failed to hold water to the harsh reality that washed the world in grey.

A roaring tumble of noise climbed over itself as it rose into the air, each louder sound fighting to take over the most space in the pedestrians’ ears. Theodore’s gaze moved slowly, unable to take in every piece that he was seeing. So he focused on what he could. He followed the flittering movement of fae as they hovered above the crowd joyously, almost mockingly to avoid the milling crowd. His eyes were a translucent blue, wide and in awe as he stared at the white light of the magical orbs that hovered above them.

Theodore reached out a finger to intercept the movement of a floating plant as it bumbled its way through the air, the small orb of green bouncing off the tip of his finger and gently soaring back on its trek through the air. He smiled wide, he had known it existed for years now, but it was the first time Theodore was witnessing the underworld in all its magical glory. Why did vampires keep so far away from it? Was it to hold onto the small shred of humanity they were afraid of losing?

Theodore’s attention was pricked up to see Mizuki begin removing her jacket. Discomfort lined her movements with urgency. He furrowed his brow, his attention steady enough to bring himself back within his body. It was an uncomfortably humid change to what they had dressed for earlier. He followed suit, taking his jacket off and folding it neatly over his arm. The silver chain around his neck glittered in the light, now exposed from its hidden place under his jacket.

An eternal pocket of spring. He guessed it was the most pleasant of the four seasons to pick, although he’d have preferred the clear, silent afternoons that autumn held. Francis walked past him to guide them forward into the crowd, not without a sly wink in Theo’s direction. He couldn’t help but huff in amusement. He sure did like to lay the charm on thick.

Theodore smiled in delight each time Mizuki reached up to pull on his shirt sleeve, pointing out fascinating pieces of magic that caught her eye. He would be awed each time, the excitement building in his chest from each thing he never could have imagined appearing before his eyes. Theo returned the favor by tapping Mizuki lightly each time he found something interesting, his eye automatically honing in on things that he knew she’d find fascinating.

He couldn’t help the awed look from his face once they reached the center of the plaza, full of entertainers and music. The fountain in the center rushed resplendent water from the top, its sound soothing and steady under the bustle of the market.

“Colorful,” Theodore repeated Francis’ description absently as he looked around the heart of the plaza. “That’s a way of putting it, sure.” He smiled.

“There are more things in heaven and earth...” he muttered to no one in particular, his attention continually stolen by a more pressing feature in the distance.

Theodore’s excitement halted at Francis’ question, the momentum slamming against itself like a train thrown off the tracks. Right, the reason why they were here. Samantha, Cecil Ambrosius. An eerily serious look washed over Theodore’s face, taking away the child like wonder that had been permanently plastered over it before.

“Right,” He said, affirming Mizuki’s quick response. “De-stress, find wonder. New York was beginning to feel,” He trailed off, looking off down the pathways that turned into dark alleys in the distance, “suffocating,” he finished.

Theodore’s eyes widened at Francis’ suggestion of a date. He opened his mouth to respond in affirmation, it was the perfect cover up of their true reason. Judging by Francis’ demeanor, for the most part of the night, it would be enough of an explanation to answer his light curiosity. He cut himself off quickly at seeing Mizuki’s adverse reaction to the thought. He slammed his mouth shut, a light color flushing into his cheeks. Right, boundaries.

Theodore looked over into the direction of the food market. Where there was food, there were bars. Bars were where people would talk and gossip. If there was a well known sorcerer around the black market, a regular who frequents its more stereotypically black market areas was bound to know.

Theodore nodded to Francis in gratitude. “I apologize for offending you earlier,” He admitted sheepishly. “I’m not well adjusted to kindness from kin, especially not in the past couple of hours.” He let out a deep sigh, one fit for the dramatism of a character awaiting a long and tragic journey.

He waved to Francis before starting towards the food market. “I think it’s a great idea,” Theodore said to Mizuki, glancing at her beside him. “It’s bound to have at least someone willing to talk. People who are eating are people who are at ease, relaxing. Other shops will just try to tell us what we want to hear and sell us something that fits exactly what we’re looking for.”

He scanned the environment around them. The alleyway began to narrow, bottlenecking the crowd into a tightly moving herd. He held his hand out to Mizuki to hold, grasping tightly to avoid being lost in the crowd.

Theodore’s eyes glanced around at the various restaurants, street food and bars that littered the crowded environment. It seemed too packed for any real regular to want to frequent. Too many starry eyed supernaturals looking to buy something shiny to bring home and brag about.

He pushed onward, past the enticingly bustling shop fronts around them, pushing until the crowd thinned out around them and they could walk freely. What was left around them were run down businesses, most in dire need of an uplift. Their signs flickered weakly, struggling to compete with the flashy lights up in the newer areas. Trash littered the street, some areas puddling with water and potholes.

Theodore cleared his throat, reluctant to walk further down the alley where the shadows loomed large and empty. He turned, looking up at the sign that shone the brightest to him. A vintage one stood out to him the most, the sign featuring a cartoonish illustration of a salamander splayed out, its tongue curling outwards in a pink led glow, x’s crossed over its eyes. “The Dead Salamander” the sign read. He let out a curious hum.

“How about this one?” He shrugged towards Mizuki. “Seems run down enough to attract locals, ones who’d know names involved in shadow work.” He took a breath and walked forwards to the door, pulling the brass handle open. The door stuck slightly, like it had been repainted so many times it took on a waxy texture.

Theodore was greeted by a dingy concrete staircase leading them downwards. Of course, why not go further underground? What did they have to lose at this point. He walked down slowly, feet echoing in the small hallway. The walls were covered in peeling, graffitied over posters. It smelled faintly like spilled liquor and stale cigarettes. He pushed the swinging door open at the bottom of the staircase, releasing the mumbling sound of low conversation and clinking glasses.

Theo walked forward into the foggy bar, everything awash in a deep red light. His senses were overwhelmed with a deep, smoky scent, one that could only be achieved after years upon years of smoke twisting in the air. His eyes were drawn around to the walls of the bar. It seemed like almost every square inch was covered in some kind of poster, photograph or art. Years worth of memories, inside jokes, warnings.

He looked back to the path in front of him suddenly after the jarring presence of another crossing through the same way. Theodore’s shoulder collided with the shoulder of the stranger. After the brief impact, the guy looked to the side at him, his dark eyes partly obscured by his tangle of curly hair. It looked like he just got out of bed, how messy and unkempt it was. The man was smoking a cigarette, the burning ember caressing the side of his cheek in a soft orange glow. His eye followed Theo's face, the iris an impossibly dark pool of color. It drew in all of Theodore’s attention, like he was looking into a vacuum of space. The man turned his face away from Theodore with no change of expression and continued onward as if nothing happened, leaving only a trail of smoke behind him. It felt like the split second of contact dragged on for minutes. Theo's eyes followed him long after he had lost the man's attention. He had retreated back to a booth in the distance of the bar, propping his feet up on one of the loose chairs scattered about. His chin was tilted up to the ceiling as he brought the cigarette to his lips, blowing smoke straight up into the air like he was fascinated by the way it dispersed in the light. His movements were lethargic and improper.

Theodore racked his mind about what kind of creature he could be, why he was able to instill that type of pull to his presence. His mind instantly went down dark paths of thought. Theodore wasn’t ignorant to the whispered rumors and ghost tales to the presence of demons in the black market. The guy looked basically human, maybe he was a fae or an easily disguisable supernatural. If he was kin, he would've sensed it by now. Those thoughts eased his curiosity for the time being, but he couldn't help but feel a nagging thought begin to knock in the back of his mind. If he was a harmless supernatural, why did his blood smell...electric?

Theo shook his head and cleared the accident that had occurred. He gestured for Mizuki to follow him as he walked up to the bar where a short statured woman talked amiably while she worked. The men at the bar followed her every movement, completely entertained by her friendly conversation. She moved around the bar with quick energy, years of ingrained muscle memory lining every movement. Theodore sat down and raised a finger up towards her, hoping she’d acknowledge their arrival.

Terra looked over at the two newcomers that had seated themselves by the end of the bar. Her workflow halted a bit, spilling a bit of whiskey onto the rubber mat her current drink order rested on. She looked up sheepishly at the Ogre sitting before her. “Sorry Torog, I’ll give you a little extra.” The Ogre gave her a gruff grunt in response, waving his thick hand dismissively. Terra winked at him, she could throw his drink on the ground and he'd still forgive her, she was his favorite bartender after all. Plus, he still owed her twenty bucks from their last gambling tournament, he couldn't be picky.

After serving the Ogre, Terra slid her way down to the opposite end of the bar, where the two newcomers sat. She wiped her hands on the white towel draped across her shoulder. She put her two hands on the counter, raising an eyebrow at them expectantly. “Well?” She asked. “What are you having?”

They didn’t look familiar to her, that was--odd. Most of the people coming to this bar deep in the food market were regulars who had grown sick of the tourist traps closer to the “magic” of the black market. The man looked far too sophisticated and preppy to want to go to a place like this unless he had a gun to his back and the girl looked--soft. Much too soft for a place as dingy as this. She had caught a couple of eyes from the regulars scattered across the bar, which bothered Terra. She didn’t like to have competition for attention here, she had most of these guys wrapped around her finger for years.

Theodore cleared his throat at the impatient looking bartender. She was studying them oddly, like they didn’t seem to fit with the usual clientele. That was good. That’s what Theo was aiming for. “I’ll take a French 75,” he said, pausing to glance at Mizuki.

Terra whistled. “Fancy drink,” She said. She hadn’t made one of those in years. Half the drinkers here took beer or straight liquor. They were clearly not regulars to the this end of the black market. This ought to be interesting.

“And you?” She asked the girl. Despite her burst of jealousy, Terra’s voice softened in tone when addressing her. She knew from experience, it wasn’t easy existing in the whirlpool of masculine energy around them, supernatural or not.

 

[Razvi-sama]

Francis Boisseau | ??? | Mizuki Chiba
Mood: Curious, moved| ???|Wary, intrigued, nervous
Location: Black Market | ​

Their adventure began with a fantastical hymn, a hymn that echoed through Mizuki like a drop of water rippling rings through the surface. Her gaze was unfocused momentarily and all Francis could do was grin back to the little ones as they seemed to grow a little...out of it. They stared at the rotting wood with fascination, almost in a trance and the vampire let out a soft bark of laughter before he sauntered through the cramped cavern. Once he took a step forward, then his children snapped out of their stupor quickly following after him after a bout of hesitation. Mizuki clearly didn't trust him and constantly looked to Theodore for silent reassurance. It seemed one single smile from that man crumble away any concern, as she simply nodded before she stepped forward.

Mizuki thankfully never suffered claustrophobia. Actually, she flourished within tight, dark spaces. Her pupils grew thin to accommodate to the lack of light, her hand rising to drag along the rugged and textured walls. Her eyes following the light like a moth to a flame. Torch after torch, her eyes kept bouncing around until her gaze finally settled over Francis' profile. He seemed to have an ever-present smile on his lips, clearly pleased with himself.

Pleasantries were shared between them as they finally knew the Councilman's name. It was French, but she supposed that was obvious given the accent that laced at his every word. Though, it wasn't the only thing she noticed. Behind her, she could hear weakened, labored breaths that came in and out rapidly. She peeked over her shoulder to see Theodore needing to bend over uncomfortably to ensure he didn't hit his head while he stared intensely at...well, she wasn't sure, but it was a singular spot in front of him. It seemed as if he wasn't truly present at the very moment and she wanted to reach out and ask him if he was okay...He looked faint, was he—?

But, before Mizuki could extend a hand out to him, brush her knuckles against his own in a soft ask...a light gleamed at the corner of her eye and she soon became distracted by the sudden burst of color, sound, and smells that began to envelop them all. They were transported to another dimension. A Wonderland for the Cursed. She swore it.

Mizuki found herself standing at the mouth of the cavern as she stared wide-eye at her surroundings as she drank in as much of this lucid dream as she could. The fairies that danced the air were enchanting and Mizuki naturally traveled after them with her eyes. She was amazed by their ability to simply...escape. Their freedom knew no bounds...They were certainly blessed by Titania. She could hear Francis' amused laughter tickle her ear, but she ignored him. Her pupils began to dilate as if she was sucking in the colorful orbs that played above her, only to focus over a faint little orb that drifted towards Theodore...and he delicate poked it only to redirect it back towards its friends. Mizuki couldn't help the dopey smile that rested over her lips, a faint giggle trickling out of her. That child-like wonder gripped at her very outline as she quickly followed after Francis who began to saunter off.

Mizuki naturally fell beside Theodore's side as she tried to take in every at once. Look at what that stall was selling! How did they manage to make that disappear? Oh! What a rare color! And, Theodore...thankfully looked pleasantly distracted. He looked incredibly uncomfortable on their way down and she silently wondered if he hated cramped spaces, if it made him anxious. Maybe they could...practice some breathing exercises on their way up. And, while she had all of these fun little trinkets honking and bouncing around them...by far...he was still one of the most entrancing beings she had ever laid eyes upon...she couldn't help but sneak a peek here and there before the next best thing tugged her attention away. Her hands found their way to the hem of Theodore's shirt to call for his attention and eagerly pointing at something that absolutely left an impression on the vampire...only to see she wasn't the only one who was being amazed by their surroundings.

Mizuki eagerly would look towards Theodore when she felt him tap her shoulder, her eyes widening at the very object of their attention while her laughter filled the air. Her smile was bright and she nearly forgot their purpose. She felt like a tourist and it was an electric feeling she hadn't experienced in a long time...and not only that, to be able to share this experience with someone else who seemed just as interested in the journey...it made her chest feel light as her smile was growing warmer and warmer each step that they took. Together.

~​

Though, it was when they found themselves at the center of the plaza...that Mizuki was struck silent. The music was jolly and joyous, and she couldn't help shifting her head from side to side along with the beat of the music. This was the community they should be a part of. They should be reaching a hand out towards these wonderous and diverse group of creatures, living in peace amongst the humans. It was a dream of Mizuki's, really...because then...then that would warn others of the horrors of—...Her thoughts trailed away as she shook them out, returning to Francis as he introduced them to the plaza, while Theodore was murmuring softly under his breath. There are more things in heaven and earth...Hm, she wondered what that mean—.

"—Horatio, than are dreamt of in your philosophy. Great Shakespearean line. Very fitting", Francis cooed back towards Theodore as he found that the song and dance had greatly enchanted one of his little dears. The Councilman finally turned towards Mizuki and Theodore, and asked them what business they currently had in the Black Market. Maybe he could direct them through a safer and more well-known path. Though, it seemed that whatever he had just asked...somehow popped their bubble. Mizuki deflated and Theodore's trance disappeared. Odd.

Francis was given excuses of simply de-stressing, of window shopping...New York being a little suffocating given today's climate...but giving their general body language, he could tell that that certainly was not the case. Then, he tried throwing them a bone by saying it was a date, then! But, Mizuki only grew flustered and refuted outright, while Theodore was left with a tinted blush on his cheeks. Hang in there, buddy. Francis rose a brow. These two...were the worst liars he had ever stumbled upon, my, my.

But, Francis was kind enough to not pry. It wasn't who he was, after all. Well, no matter, the Food Market was a wonderful little area that one could venture off to, as it had all sorts of oddities. The two seemed curious and content, and that left the Councilman pleased. He smiled down to the two politely, only to raise his attention towards Theodore who was...apologizing to him. Oh? He even added a lengthy little sigh, which only seemed to add character to this young man. Francis was intrigued, "Huh. Never thought anyone would take me seriously once I go into 'character'", he jested, raising his hand up to gently brush off some debris from Theodore's shoulder. An affectionate little pat, "I understand, but do know that there are truly some who are happy to extend out a helping hand", he assured, "But, no worries about apologizing, I would have also been wary".

Francis peeked over to Mizuki who was staring up intently at the two men and he offered her a roguish little grin, "That goes for you too", he hummed, reaching for her hand and raising it up to his lips, pressing a soft kiss to her knuckles. Though, of course, she didn't seem to really seem to fall for his charms and she grimaced lightly at his touch. Oof, tough crowd. He pulled away and slid out his wallet, where he then slipped out a business card for both Mizuki and Theodore, "If you ever want to catch up or need that "helping hand" I was offering earlier, then you may contact me at that number. Hope to be seeing you around, strangers", he hummed, waving to the two before he blew them both a kiss. This is where they part. With a swooping and theatrical bow, Francis spun around and padded off to the opposite end, hands in his pockets, and a gentle whistle blowing past his lips.

Mizuki was left a little...why did it feel like a whirlwind just blew past them? She did wave and said her goodbyes, though. It was the polite thing to do. Francis was certainly...unique in many ways, he was certainly touchy as well, which wasn't something Mizuki appreciated. She dragged her knuckles over her jeans as if to clean away the vampire's kiss only to stare down at the business card they were just given. Would they ever be calling this man again? Surely not. She pocketed the business card and let out a weak sigh, as if exasperated, dragging her fingers through her hair to push it back. She did peek back over towards Theodore and offered the man a small smile, nodding along his reasoning, "That makes sense, absolutely", she hummed. She was waiting for him to take a step forward, watching as he simply scanned their environment and she followed suit. They could go around the plaza and—.

Mizuki's eyes lowered down to see Theodore extending his hand out to her. O-Oh? She immediately flushed at the idea, but reasoned it was more for practical reasons than anything else. She reached forward and slid her hand into his, feeling his tight grasp surround her. It would be certainly rather chaotic to grow lost within the crowds, wouldn't it? The two of them would be left simply search for the other and it would ruin their lead.

Finally, they started forward and Mizuki trailed behind Theodore. Her eyes naturally began to scan the variety of stalls and restaurants that heartily promoted their establishment and food.

They entered the Food Market that rested in the Black Market. Rows and rows and rows, and booths of all kind of food and drink! There were a few pubs and taverns scattered about, too. They even had that rustic, medieval feel to them, and Mizuki couldn't help but think how precious they were. There were promotions to many of the dishes and street food they were offering, like: Catch Ya Own Fish and Chips (there is an inter-dimensional hole in one of the tavern’s floor that leads to an elemental plane of water. They cook anything one can catch and provide the chips but you have to supply your own rod); Celebratory Goat Stew (With assorted fruits, nuts, and cheeses); Kumquat Curd Pancakes (Served with a Tankard of Yarrow Beer); Sweet, Sweet Hell (Roasted with onions and slathered with honey. Goes great with any meat!); Dragon’s Eggs: eggs cooked with thin slices of beef and a little bit of cayenne (Salt and pepper according to taste. Served in a bowl with tiny dragon geckos on it for pa-zzaz!); A traveling gnome was yelling and promoting that they had a new fruit called Impression Berries (Eating it changes your voice to sound like someone else in the room. The flavor is based on your feelings towards that person. For example: if you like them, the berries are sweet. Dislike, bitter. Attracted to, spicy!); Owlbear venison; and so much more!

For drink, there were: Kraken's Revenge, Drinking Cloud, Aniseed Cup, Widow's Tears, Mint Bomb, Fae's Blood (a pale ale, almost white in color that left a tingle in one's mouth), Dragon's Blood (a dark and thick ale that had a smokey, bitter taste), Golden Harvest, Lover's Kiss, and all of the Hot Ale and Wine one would want from all over the world and across different countries!

It was impressive the different little foods and drinks they offered. Like: Lover's Kiss was supposedly a rose wine that had aphrodisiac qualities and was best shared with someone you loved. That seemed to only make Mizuki grow flustered and quickly turned away from the elf promoting such a drink. Then, there was a Black Forest Brew that was made from a type of hop which is found in the Black Forest deep in Norway and guarded by a dangerous Spirit and Dark Elves where childhood nightmares are said to lurk. The Ale itself is a very dark color and some say that swirls in the liquid itself create ghoulish visions. Or, the Golden Harvest, one of the more normal drinks sold in the Black Market that was a blend of pale Ale and mead, that is sweet yet woody. The picture on the barrel is of bees on yellow flowers.

However, one stall had offered to pay a large sum of money if one finished a gallon of Green Dragon Scale under three minutes, and Mizuki paused in the middle of the street, which in turn made Theodore pause. She eyed the board and delicately tugged at Theodore's hand as there were three dragons who were attempting such a challenge. It was a Dwarven Ale that was mostly made from a common cave slime and moss, it was invented during a siege of a Dwarven Stronghold when the defenders were forced to begin eating the moss after food stores ran out. Traditionally, it doesn’t taste or smell very nice, but makes the slime at least a little palatable. The dragons were being heckled and pushed by what seemed to be their friends, encouraging them to try the challenge. They wanted more money so that they could pay for more food and try out more things! They seemed to cave and groaned, and sat down in one of the tiny stools the Dwarves offered them, soon bringing in large, gallon sized beer mugs filled with a green-ish and thick concoction. Only a handful has been said to be able to finish and gather the money. It seemed that only one of the three dragons managed to finish the challenge in two and a half minutes, and the crowd around them roared. Mizuki couldn't help her own smile and she clapped for the dragon. He was a river dragon, so he insisted that he was already use to all the moss and slime. The others tapped out, but at least they managed to win a little something.

The Dwarves of the stall were...impressed, to say the least, but they paid up what was owed to the winners. What a horrible thing to do, and the dragon insisted that they didn't want to repeat it. Even looking to be a bit ill. Thankfully, the Dwarves had something called High Tea which should alleviate and nausea. Mizuki smiled and began to walk off with Theodore in hand, apologizing for the distraction. She loved little performances such as those.

Overall, it was pretty fun. Reading the names, hearing the cooks and sellers yell out their promotions and specialties! Some involved fun little missions or little tricks one needed to do before being able to eat or drink. Mizuki was never going to forget this experience.

They continued to pus forward, past all the yelling and entertainment, and finally they were starting to find themselves to be surrounded by less people, the noise began to drown out, and only the occasional laughter or roar could be heard in a distance. It even felt cooler, in this part of the Market. Damp. She instinctively took a step closer towards Theodore as she trailed her eyes along the alleyways they were finding themselves twisting and turning into. Broken windows, worn down doors, soot covered bricks. Staggering drunks, and watchful..."entertainers" eyed the couple as they continued down the many alleyways that hid away their existence from the outside. Mizuki felt something tighten at the pit of her stomach.

Should they really be down here? At this point, Mizuki was hugging Theodore's arm as she dodged a low, worn down creaky sign that led into...nowhere. Just another rundown business. She could hear cackling in the distance and she couldn't help but let out a heavy sigh. Well, if they were to find anyone suspicious and assumed to be doing illegal business...surely it would be in the back alleys and shadows of the Black Market. She frowned though, not having imagined the experience would be so...chilling.

As they walked, they encountered several shady individuals, but the one that overwhelmed Mizuki the most and forced her to stumble into Theodore's side was...well, the rotting scent of death that lingered over a certain individual.

Mizuki couldn't make out any of his features as he was shrouded in a cloak, but he was walking casually down the cobblestone alleyways, occasionally stumbling over a few misplaced stones. He was hugging something against his chest and Mizuki's instincts screamed to stay away from the individual. She quickly peeled her eyes away and stared down at her feet as they walked by...but from the corner of her gaze she noted the individual...bowed. Slightly, before continuing on their way...c-...could that have been a Necromancer? A witch who fancied death and who many warned the undead to stay away from? She shuddered, trying to push the thought away.

Theodore seemed to come to a stop as he found something that caught his attention. Mizuki peeked up to see the silly salamander, eyeing it critically as it even had "x's" crossed over its eyes. Poor salamander. She was about to move on when Theodore seemed to speak up, turning to the vampire as she once more looked over the establishment with weakened grimace. Well, it was one of the few establishments that was actually open and from the murmurs she heard on the other side of the door...the pounding heartbeats...it seemed to be bustling with life. She took a deep breath and nodded towards the vampire, "You're most likely right...but any sign of actual danger and we should take our leave", she warned, giving in. She pulled away from Theodore and shifted her arms to hug herself. The smell alcohol and cigarette butts that wafted through the moment Theodore opened the sticky door was nauseating. For now, she tried to focus on Theodore's scent, her eyes moving to see his back muscles shifting faintly underneath his t-shirt. She sighed, stepping forward and simply following Theodore's lead as he guided her down another...flight of stairs that led downwards.

Mizuki's eyes strayed from Theodore's back to take in each image from every poster that caked the walls around them. She looked at the with great intrigue and they seemed to serve to help and distract the vampire to...well, whatever was on the other side of the swinging door. She made sure to keep her hands to herself, though...everything looked...unkempt and greasy. Once they reached the bottom of the stairs, Mizuki braced herself as Theodore opened the door and revealed...well, your average bar, really.

A red filter seemed to wash over the space, the air stale with cigarette smoke to which had Mizuki itching to raise her hand up to her nose. But, out of respect she kept her hands to herself, neatly folded in front of her. The wallpaper, posters, and photographs looked aged and some were even peeling off of the walls themselves. The furniture looked worn down and the floors were grimy. Each step of Mizuki's seemed momentarily stuck in some sort of sticky mess that stained the floor previously. Whether it be from spilled beer or some sort of sugary cocktail or something...worse...Mizuki wasn't sure. And, didn't think se wanted to know.

Mizuki eyed the bar, tilting her head back to stare at the ceiling and ignoring the...immediate stares that came their way. It was clear they were newcomers, it was clear...that they didn't belong. She hated the attention. The whispers...the murmurings—. The smell of smoke intensified and choked Mizuki, forcing herself to swallow back a coughing fit as she snapped her attention towards the man who seemed to bump into Theodore. Due to Theodore's long form, Mizuki was safely tucked away from the individual's trance, so she didn't really have the chance to peer into his eyes...and grow lost in them. She paused along with Theodore as the vampire seemed to simply...stare at the strange man. Watching him walk off to a shifty little corner in the bar. And, even when the individual walked off...Theodore continued to stare. What was...did he recognize him? Mizuki nervously glanced around them. They were just standing in the middle of the establishment which caused the patrons of the bar to turn a curious gaze their way. They were causing a bit of a scene, it seemed and Mizuki's hand shot up to lightly tug Theodore forward, a frown painting her lips, "...T-Theodore? Are you okay?", she asked meekly, brows puckered together in concern as she sneaked a peek over towards the stranger who slumped against a nearby booth...what a strange man. He felt...empty, for some reason and his blood...she didn't feel the same rush under his skin as she felt with the other clientele that surrounded them.

Though, whatever hold that stranger seemed to have over Theodore...it seemed that the man was able to shake it away. Mizuki silently wondered if it was someone Theodore knew. She kept glancing over her shoulder towards the young man as she rested her hand on Theodore's back and encouraged him forward. They really shouldn't linger in the middle of the bar...they really shouldn't be bringing too much attention to themselves.

Mizuki followed Theodore, her concern still shrouding her as they motioned towards the bar where Mizuki instantly recognized a fairy's scent. She snapped her attention to the bartender behind the counter...seeing a young woman zipping back and forth whose patrons were paying close attention to. Oh. Mizuki rested her hands flat over the counter hopped onto the barstool beside Theodore, bringing her eyes over to the delicate array of spirits and alcohols that adorned the wall behind the fairy. Reading each label and taking in its colorful selection seemed to ease Mizuki's anxiety. She unconsciously picked at her bandages, nails digging under the sticky gauze.

Mizuki shifted back when she heard a soft grunt coming from their right that came from a nearby ogre. The fairy didn't seem nervous and her energy was even a little intoxicating. Surely, the presence of a calm and confident fairy was a good sign, right? She noted that Theodore had waved the bartended down and Mizuki was wondering what exactly...how exactly would they approach this? But, before she could ask Theodore the fairy had stepped up before them and expected an answer.

Mizuki frowned, hands now resting on her lap as she tried to look for a menu, silently wondering if it would even be a good idea to ask for an alcoholic drink. Seeing no menu, she settled her attention over the bartender once more and tried to offer a friendly smile. The fairy was...gorgeous, but really all fairies she had come across were naturally so. It was a natural glow came from within them at all times. Titania's children. She admittedly hadn't been around many fairies, as their clans kept them away from other supernatural creatures. Especially fae. She wondered if it was because the Council didn't believe they could keep their thirst under control before such a demure creature. Well, this creature was certainly forthright, somewhat shattering Mizuki's idea as to how a fairy usually behaved.

Unaware of the woman's jealousy, Mizuki peeked towards Theodore to see which direction he was going to take. A French 75? Her lips parted in a smile, one of the few smiles she had graced the vampire with since stepping into the shadows. It was basically him in a cocktail, exactly what she expected him to fancy. Did they...serve such a drink—? Oh! It seemed like they did. Okay. Uh. What would she get? She was mildly distracted by the bartender's whistle, a pit of dread suddenly overtaking her.

Mizuki blanked, staring at the fairy as if she were a deer in headlights, only to be shaking out of her reverie when the fairy finally addressed her directly. What did she want? Thankfully...the woman's tone was soft and that seemed to ease Mizuki's nerves a little. She was out of her comfort zone, she hated the male gaze or the...overwhelming male presence, in general...and on top of it...they seemed to be fumbling blind at this point. What were they even doing here? Could they really just saunter up to a group of patrons and ask them about Cecil? "A Lemon Sour, if possible. If not, then a Gin on the rocks, please. Thank you", she offered kindly. She ensured to hide her fangs as much as possible, as it was rather rude to simply flash them about. At least, to her it was.

With that, Mizuki seemed to be able to let out a breath she had been holding in, deflating a little beside Theodore as the excitement and adrenaline of having first arrived to the Black Market was slowly melting away. She looked towards Theodore, "...how have you managed to stay so calm?", she asked in a near whine of complaint. He looked so composed and indifferent, while she was a bundle of nerves. She frowned, looking down to the counter. She took a nearby napkin and started to wipe down the space in front of her, "...so, now that we're here...what do we do?", she asked, looking to see a handful of men playing a game of poker, "How do we...mingle?".

 

[Pepsionne]

Theodore smirked at the sound of Francis finishing his quote, the man smoothly offering the words without missing a beat. So he was well versed in literature too then? This Francis character was beginning to grow on him bit by bit. Theo had never met someone so equal to him in--well, being him.

Francis seemed inquisitive in their fumbling efforts to come up with a definitive reason for being in the black market. Theodore was sure the vampire didn't buy anything they had told him, but at the very least he hoped he didn't suspect the things they hadn't told him.

His eyebrows shot up in mild shock to see Francis so eloquently kiss Mizuki's knuckles. He understood being dramatic and chivalrous but wasn't this a little--much? To add to the performance, Francis blew them a parting kiss, his golden hair shimmering in the magical lights of the black market as he bowed. Theodore watched his back retreat down the long strip of the black market, until his figured weaved into the crowd and disappeared from his sight. What a handful of a personality.

He shook his head to reset his focus before he headed into the food market alleyway, Mizuki in tow behind him. Theodore glanced back at Mizuki every so often, her attention bouncing from sign to sign like a bee overwhelmed in a field of flowers. A delighted look was written on her face as she walked. Theodore peered at some of the things he found her looking at, a beer called fairy blood, kumquat pancakes, dragon's eggs. He couldn't help the glee from sprouting forth in his chest from looking at all the unique specialities. It felt like being a child again, walking down the candy aisle and being told that anything you wanted was possible.

The urge to enjoy the sights of the black market and the heavy reminder of why he was there fought within him. Each smile of delight or gleeful shock brought with it an intense stab of guilt. How could he be enjoying himself right now? When Samantha was probably sleeping on a damp concrete floor?

Theodore was saved from the gentle pull of his swirling dark thoughts by the tension running through his arm as Mizuki halted briefly. He looked back, confused, the emotion clearly quickly at the sight of Mizuki's enjoyment of the competition. There was a look of investment and concern that hardened her expression. She tugged on his hand lightly before pointing towards the center of the crowd's attention.

A group of dragons stood reluctantly around a set of bar stools, their exasperation clear in their movements. The friends around them jeered and egged them on, hoping to psyche them up. Finally, with deep sigh even Theodore could feel, the dragons caved to the mounting pressure of the crowd and sat before the Dwarves who worked the stall.

Theodore's stomach hardened once he saw the liquid that filled the large mugs set before the dragons. It was a thick, viscous liquid, so opaque that it seemed like it was sucking the surrounding light in. He could see the three dragons shudder, staring down at the mugs before them with a palpable sense of dread.

With more pressure from the crowd, the dragons finally drank. Only one managed to finish, the other two held back by their gagging and half baked attempts to throw in the towel.

Mizuki began clapping for the winning river dragon, a look of delight clear on her face. Theodore joined her in her applause, the joy was infectious.

He dismissed Mizuki's apology with a curt shake of his head. It was a pleasant distraction, but the guilt was persistent in its pursuit of his heart. It wouldn't stop until he was swallowed whole. Theodore had a feeling the only way to stop it was to save Samantha, or let it consume him.

The weight of the real reason they were in the black market, the reminder of the crushing reality he lived in, returned in the darker section of the alley. Mizuki's warmth, her scent, washed over him. She had taken a step closer to him the further into the darkness they had wandered. She must have been uncomfortable. He remembered her hesitation in visiting the black market when he had brought it up in the library. Theodore's muscles tightened. If anything happened to her, the blame would rest on his shoulders. He would do what he needed to protect her, though judging from her strong grip and her de-escalation of Katarina's advances, he was sure she could handle her own.

An ice cold bolt of fear shot down from Theodore's throat and spread into the floor from his feet suddenly. An overwhelming smell of decay filled his nose, a scent he recognized immediately. Memories of hunting for roadkill, hunting decaying humans, just to survive flooded him. Mizuki stumbled into his side, but Theodore couldn't even feel it. He was paralyzed with fear.

The source of the smell was a cloaked figure, fumbling their way over the uneven stone pathway at their feet. They were hunched over slightly, as if they were holding onto something for dear life, afraid of letting it be exposed lest even the air itself should whisk it from their possession. Theodore's eyes followed the figure slowly, fear intensifying his immediate focus. The figure--bowed to them before moving on. The gesture made his stomach churn sickly. So this was the hidden black market he had heard rumors of.

The figure disappeared into the murky shadows around them, taking the purifying scent with him. Theodore let out a pent up breath. His muscles seemed to turn slack.

He turned his attention to the bar in front of them, The Dead Salamander. "I agree," He said in response to Mizuki's suggestion of caution. "We don't quite know how the underworld works yet. Or--at least I don't. I don't know which creatures hate what, which are ganged together and which--" his voice trailed off as his eyes peeled back in the direction the mysterious figure had left. "Mingle in dark arts."

He cleared his throat and lead the way into the dingy dive bar. He was used to the leering gaze that fell over his female companions, he was friends with Katarina after all, but this time, the heavy presence of attention falling onto Mizuki bothered him. Like a tiny piece within him snapped.

He drummed his fingers on the waxy surface of the bar counter while he waited for Mizuki to order a drink from the testy waitress before them. The fairy seemed to have softened from the iron judgement she had taken up when first walking over to them. Theodore's eyes traveled along the woman's arm, noting small traces of inky, vein like markings on her skin.

Terra glanced at the man as he tapped his fingers on the counter. He seemed nervous, unsure of himself in this environment. It only drove the curiosity to their visit even further into her chest.

Terra's attention was stolen back to the girl at the sound of her soft, almost song like speech drifted lightly in the heavy bar air. Terra nodded encouragingly. She could feel the uncertainty radiating off of the girl. Her dark eyes had stared at Terra widely, emptily, their deep color reflecting the red hue that bled from the bar. Terra remembered the first time she had felt that way about the black market. Felt out of her depth. Vulnerable.

“Okay, no problem. Coming right up” She responded, aiming her accommodating tone towards the girl rather than the man beside her. Terra shifted smoothly away from them to reach her main work area, a clustered center of different purees, mixers and liquor. “French 75” She scoffed to herself. "Who the fuck orders something like that this far down the food sector?"

As she worked on the drinks, she could feel a level of tension lining her movements, like there was an invisible string restricting her natural flow. The two newbies weren't the only new faces in the bar that night. Terra had been put off by the deadbeat kid that had wandered in earlier. The careless attitude he carried himself with, it worried her. The only other person she knew who towed around that much ego was Cecil.

It didn't take long for the buzz to fill the bar that the stranger was here to see Jax, her boss. What kind of person just sauntered in and demanded to see the owner? Someone cocky, that was for sure.

Terra let out a frustrated sigh, having split the lemon peel garnish she had been twisting for the drink. The ghost feeling of its misted break still lingered on the tops of her hands.

She peered from the corner of her eye as one of the bouncers walked up to the stranger from earlier. The kid looked up to the bouncer from under his messy hair, undaunted by the difference in stature between the two.

"Calm?" Theodore chuckled lightly. "I have a talent for acting I guess." He sighed, eyes falling on the bandages wrapped around Mizuki's hands. He had notified the gauze before but thought nothing of it. Why was that?

"In all seriousness, I'm not calm. Not in the least bit. There's been this bundle of anxiety in my chest, burning softly and steadily ever since we arrived at the bridge," He said, clenching his jaw. "But I don't have time for anxiety, I need to be as calm as I can pretend to be."

He watched Mizuki out of the side of his eye. She observed the crowd timidly, nervously, for any hint of how to blend in more.

"Mingle," Theodore said to himself. He propped his elbow on the bar, resting his chin in his hand as he thought. "Mingle...I'm not sure how we do that."

Theodore sat up straight as the fairy bartender made her way over to them. Since she had left to make their drinks her demeanor seemed--changed. Like she was trying to push down a feeling she didn't want to be surfaced. Bar problems, he guessed.

An idea popped into Theodore's head suddenly, albeit possibly a bad one given the pull and favor the fairy seemed to have over the more intimidating patrons of the bar around them.

He glanced at Mizuki briefly before clearing his throat. "I'm sure you could tell, but we're decently new to this end of the black market. You have any tips you could give us?"

Terra shot an eyebrow up at the male's question. "Decently? Yeah I'd say so," she scoffed. "The only tip, I have for you is to end your exploration here." She crossed her arms and leaned back on the counter behind her. "Consider the black market a pool. And this bar? This is the deep end. Let's say that sits at about 6 feet. You look like a tall guy, let's say your 6'1". Go any further, and you're over your head. Go any further and I guarantee you'll drown."

Terra looked over at the girl beside him. "She's been over her head for awhile now. Better not let her drown, either."

Theodore looked over to Mizuki, frustration furrowing his brow. This fairy was proving to be a tough opponent for him to cull favor. She gave him a tight lipped smile and began to move away. Panic gripped Theodore's chest.

"What if we're looking for something? Someone?" He asked, covering the desperation in his body language by taking a smooth sip of his drink. He raised his eyebrows at the fairy. "Well?"

Terra halted in her step. "I suggest you stop looking then. If someone's lost in the black market, they're either dead or don't want to be found. Either way, it's a lost cause." She turned back around dismissively, nodding in acknowledgement to the goblin down the bar who raised an empty glass in the air.

Her eyes moved instinctively to the booth in the distance where the stranger had sat for a decent amount of time earlier. He was no longer there.

"Alright," Theodore said, hoping a shot in the dark would call back the fairies attention. "Ever heard of a Cecil Ambrosius?"

Terra halted dead in her tracks. How the hell did they know his name? She turned around to look at the man. Cecil was a lot of things, but most of all he was careful. He knew not to leave his name lingering around in places where just anyone could stumble across and find it. So why were two fresh faced vampires uttering it to her right now?

"Oh Cecil," Terra thought to herself, "What did you get yourself into?"

Theodore let out a breath in relief. Clearly whatever he said triggered enough of a response in the fairy to get her to tell them more. Although the lighthearted expression from her face earlier was replaced with a concerned, hardened stoicism.

"How did you hear that name?" She asked them.

 

[Razvi-sama]

Mizuki Chiba
Mood: Nervous, annoyed, hopeful
Location: Black Market - The Dead Salamander ​

Mingle in the dark arts. It was a phrase that lingered in the back of her mind and Mizuki hated to admit how incredibly ignorant she was towards the world outside of their clan. It...frustrated her. She couldn't even begin to imagine what someone involved in the...."dark arts" could do to a pair of undead like themselves. Though, she tried not to linger too much on such thoughts.

Her senses were being overwhelmed in all areas. Her nose burned with the smell of smoke and bitter alcohol. Her eyes were assaulted by the harsh interior and unseemly patrons. She occasionally cringed or flinched due to loud roars or frustrated bangs from ogres or goblins. The area around her felt sticky, the bar stool was losing its cushion. And, she could taste a mouthful of stale cigarettes coat her mouth, so she supposed washing it back with something a little more refreshing would do her good.

Hearing Theodore order a "French 75" pulled her out of her anxieties, supposing that she could use a bit of liquid courage to help her pull through the evening. So, she asked for what felt most comfortable with and was pleasantly surprised to know it was possible to get a "Lemon Sour". Mizuki visibly softened for the fairy, almost grateful. Though, the longer she looked at her...the more she felt a pull towards the woman...Unashamedly, her eyes began to drag over the woman's figure and arms, especially noticing the vein-like trails that dragged over her shoulders. It was...enchanting. Were they tattoos?

Though, supposing that she was most likely being rude, Mizuki peeled her eyes away and allowed them to fall over her hands. It was the moment that the fairy finally responded back to her with that soft chime in her voice that caused Mizuki to snap her attention back up towards her, her smile stretching out optimistically, "Thank you!", she chimed after the fairy with a pleased smile.

Mizuki's gaze followed after the fairy as she curiously watched her pad over towards her work station, gathering all the necessary ingredients for their drinks. She always enjoyed watching bartenders mix and play around with the different assortment of bottles and garnishes. It soothed her and it was exactly what needed. A distraction. Occasionally, she felt her side or arm ghost against Theodore's as she tried to lean closer to get a better look at the fairy's dexterity. Though, she paused, when the bartender looked up—momentarily worried that she was somehow bothering her by staring—only to notice her gaze move past them. Something had caught her attention. The vampire quickly ducked her head, playing with her hair absentmindedly before...Out of curiosity, Mizuki's peeked over her shoulder discretely and eyed the bartender's general stare. It was that...strange, lanky stranger that had practically splayed himself lazily over one of the corner booths. Two, large orcs, assumed to be bouncers by Mizuki, had approached the young man. Was he in trouble—?

Mizuki whipped her head back to Theodore and smiled naturally for him. His chuckle pleasantly reverberated through her chest cavity, practically melting the vampire as she eyed the man with warm sympathy. She nodded, she understood. Though, at least he was able to poke fun at the situation which in turn managed to coax out an amused giggle out of Mizuki, "You certainly do have a talent for it. With your whimsical nature, you practically put on a display for all to see in the plaza with Francis. It was quite the sight, I have to say", she hummed. His eyes flicked downwards towards her hands and she instinctively tucked them away underneath the counter. She folded them delicately over her lap.

Mizuki swiveled a little in her stool to face Theodore properly and regard him respectfully. Her legs were folded one over the other and she was starting to find a comfortable position leaning against the bar's counter. Theodore was being sincere with her and she wishes to express to him how much she appreciated his honesty, "Okay, but...remember that you're not alone in this and to let out your anxiety in any way possible once we're finished with all of this for the evening. Bottling everything up isn't healthy, so you should try to make time for it whenever possible...process everything that has happened", she stated, her tone gentle and holding her concern for the man, "...but, it's a little relieving to hear that I'm not the only one who is nervous. I thought I was being overly sensitive or silly", she admitted, peering back towards the bartender as her hand found its way behind her neck, "...thank you for telling me, though, it's not easy to admit one's nerves", she offered, peeking back sheepishly towards the vampire.

Though, there was now the question of how should they approach the patrons of the bar. If they were found sticking their noses where it didn't belong, they could accidentally end up offending someone...or someone who knows this Cecil could warn him about strangers searching for him, and then he could go into hiding never to be found. Those would be the...two "worst case" scenarios that Mizuki could think of in that moment.

Theodore looked just as defeated and lost, and Mizuki realized they simply walked in without a plan. They were doomed, to put it simply. She swiveled back in her stool and turned to face the counter this time around, resting both elbows on the counter with her fists shoved into her cheeks as she tried to mull over some sort of game plan that would not start a bar fight and would not cause their investigation to become some sort of dead-end.

They were both equally clueless, and again...it soothed Mizuki to know they were both stuck in the same sinking boat. At least they could push out the water together, right?

As the fairy motioned towards them, Mizuki perked up and removed her elbows from the counter to once more rest her hands over her lap. The fairy seemed tense, and Mizuki couldn't decipher if the bartended looked troubled or not. Of course...she was a complete stranger, so she wasn't about to shove herself into the woman's business...but she hoped none of the men in the bar were giving her a hard time.

"Thank you", Mizuki repeated softly, offering the fairy a kind smile before she reached out to take hold of her Lemon Sour. It was sat on top of a black cardboard coaster and a small black straw that could help her mix her drink if all the lemon had sunk to the bottom. She was still trying to think about how they could approach a group of perfect strangers, wondering if they should offer to play a hand of poker—...no, that could start a fight. She rose the glass up to her lips and took a hearty sip, starting to wonder if they could maybe bribe someone. But, then she wondered if the Black Market held the same currency...and then she started fretting over the possibility of the bartender not accepting dollars, a-and—!

Mizuki flicked her eyes towards Theodore as he spoke up, meeting his brief gaze before he turned to face the fairy...and started asking her for advice. Her eyes widened, her body tense, as she looked to the fairy curiously...wondering how she would react to Theodore's question. It was...rather out of the blue, but hey, it was a start. So, she kept quiet for the time being as she watched the back and forth between the two. The bartender even scoffed as if the fact that they were new in the Black Market could clearly be seen a mile away. That was fair, Mizuki thought. A little embarrassing, but fair.

...yet, Mizuki felt her heart sink to the pit of her stomach as the fairy, of all creatures, was advising two vampires to end their search through the Black Market. They were biting more than they could chew and it was best to cut their losses...and head home. Mizuki looked a little disappointed. They were already being told to leave and they had barely even started. This whole time, she had been staring at her drink, absentmindedly stirring the contents round and round as she watched as the carbonated tonic bubbles floated about. The bartender managed to snatch her complete attention when she started to use a metaphor about a pool. It was an interesting way to look at it, she had to admit, but what she was saying was a little presumptuous and could even be considered offensive.

Especially...when the fairy regarded her. Mizuki's brows furrowed and her lips tugged into a frown as her expression now twisted into something akin towards confusion and incredulousness. She didn't even know her. How could she make sure remarks? And, she was perfectly capable of looking after herself. A bitter, uncomfortable feeling tightened in her chest as she looked to Theodore to garner his reaction...only to see his own frustration. She let out a steady, shaky breath and watched as the fairy had turned around to leave. She turn back towards her drink, her motivation having completely left her after such a disheartening little speech...Good riddance—Mizuki shot her attention back towards Theodore as he tried to call for the bartender's attention once more, and was even more direct with her than before! What was he saying?! She looked around discretely to make sure no one had been eavesdropping on them...but even she had to admit she was curious as to what the fairy's reaction would be.

Theodore's body language had changed drastically, and he didn't scream of desperate. He kept his composure, and was equally suave and cool as he was the moment he stepped foot into this Market. Starting with Barnaby. He had so much natural charisma, it was...incredible. He even seemed to challenge the fairy and Mizuki looked back to the bartender in silent regard. What would she say next? She clearly held no filter, she was honest, blunt, and wasn't afraid to speak her mind. As...bitter as Mizuki had become with such insulting assumptions...she had to admit it was admirable in its own way, as not many people seemed to choose to speak their mind. It gave her hope, because if anyone was to provide them some sort of information about the man they were looking for...surely it would be a fairy who had eyes and ears over such a sketchy, raunchy little bar...who held equally suspicious characters within. A bartended was exactly the person to ask for information, and she was ashamed she doubted Theodore's approach for even a moment.

But, again. The bartender was dismissive, and Mizuki took another deep breath. Look, she understood it might be weird or it could even feel a little intrusive to have two strangers barge into one's establishment—vampires of all creatures—and suddenly demand answers. She wasn't dense enough to not understand that, but her frustration lied within the fact that Samantha's life was on a timer and they only had so much time before they...ran out of it. And, this bartender's piss-poor attitude wasn't helping Mizuki's already frayed nerves.

Mizuki's pupils shot into slits as she eyed the little fairy before her. Lost cause. She refused to believe it, and it seemed like Theodore did too. He even went as far as to announce the mystery man's name and Mizuki hoped to the gods they were doing the right thing—Ah. There it was. A reaction. Finally.

Mizuki peeked down towards the goblin who had been trying to get the bartender's attention, though it seemed that the name was important enough to have her stop in her tracks all together...and that was relieving. It meant...they found another clue.

The fairy seemed to have stood frozen before them, eyeing them—Theodore, questioningly as if in disbelief that they would utter such a name. Mizuki couldn't help the small grin that quirked at the corner of her lips, especially when she practically felt Theodore deflate beside her, just as relieved as she.

The bartender was practically glaring at them, at this point, and Mizuki turned to the fairy when she asked them how could they possibly come up with such a name, "I don't think it necessarily matters as to how we gathered the name, but if we're expecting honesty from you it's only fair that we return it", she said softly, speaking up. Her gaze was sharp, her back was straight, and she wasn't about to be pushed around by someone else.

Mizuki rested her chin against the back of her hand, her claws out in full display. Not because she was threatening the fairy, she just...her frustration was bubbling over and if she didn't control herself, she might snap, "I won't go into detail, but there is a large collection of books that hold his name. We're in search of his assistance, more than anything. We don't want trouble, we don't want to cause trouble", she quickly assured, "I know how it must look to have two nobodies just come in and hound you for questions, but...this is a matter of life and death", whether it's life or death involving Cecil or someone else...that was for the fairy to decide. She purposefully kept her words vague, "We have come across certain...passages, so to say, that hold some sort of value to us and his name was sprawled across every single one. We just want to know what he knows and if it was possible to schedule some sort of meeting? Maybe? So, if you could help us...it would be much appreciated", she insisted, her tone sincere, pleading even as she looked to the fairy with her brows puckered together, "...so...do you know him? Well—that much is obvious, but do you know where we could find him? Anything you can tell us would be helpful".

 

[Pepsionne]

Theodore | Terra
Mood: Excited | Mood: Anxious
Location: The Dead Salamander​

Theodore smiled gratefully at Miuzuki’s affirmation of his talent for acting. He wouldn’t necessarily call the talent theatrical, rather a keen sense of how to mimic feelings and personalities he observed in other people. Acting--was out of his scope. He dabbled in it in college, but never got anywhere far.

His body instinctively leaned in towards Mizuki once she made the effort to turn to him, her body language confirming her undivided attention. He let out a deep sigh, frustration venting off of his back like hot steam from a cooling surface.

“It is relieving to know you’re not alone. To know that those gut feelings you have are real--” He clenched his jaw and looked down at his hands, which were resting flat against the waxy surface of the bar. The red light from the bar sunk deep down into the wood. “It’s freeing, almost. To know that you’re reality isn’t skewed so far from everyone else’s. Like switching a light on in the dark. You’re not lost anymore.”

He mulled over their options for a while before looking down at the bar at the fairy. She was walking towards them with a slow and steady stride, the liquid in their glasses barely trembling with each of her steps.

To hear her so--flippant about their ability to navigate the black market on their own was frustrating to say the least. That was two people in one night who doubted their capabilities in the face of danger. Was the black market really that much of a snake pit?

Terra’s sharp eye flicked back over to the vampire girl after warning them of the dangers of travelling any further. She didn’t look so soft anymore. The hair stood up on the back of Terra’s neck, sending a small shiver deep down her spine. She hated that about vampires. With Orcs, goblins, ogres, their menacing nature was delivered up front. No hidden dangers. It let her accept and come to terms with the danger face to face. Vampires---looked human. They looked harmless enough to let her guard down. Terra had nightmares of the hidden monsters that they held within. What fairy didn't? Her chest tightened instinctually to see the sharp claws the vampire girl quickly hid within her palms. She didn’t think a single fairy was immune to the natural fear that sight entailed. It was drilled into them, coded into their DNA.

Terra’s heart stopped to hear Cecil’s name uttered by the male vampire. She hadn’t seen him in months, left empty handed with no explanation, nothing to go off of but the whispered rumors and tall tales of late night adventures from others--to hear his name now was unsettling at the least.

Several of the patrons around the bar perked their heads up at Cecil’s name. It wasn’t unusual for people to drop in asking about him, but to ask so direct and with such desperation. They knew something was off.

Terra cleared her throat, shoving down the innate fear she now felt towards the female vampire as she walked back before them.

Her gaze narrowed as the woman spoke about some library in the city, where Cecil’s name was apparently scribbled in a bunch of old books. It wasn’t too out of the realm of possibility for Terra, Cecil was a human after all, his presence in the city wasn’t something impossible for him to achieve. As for the books, being a sorcerer required heavy reading.

Terra closed her eyes as memories of waking up in the middle of the night, only to see Cecil beside her, reading through books upon books of all things, flooded her mind. Worry crept its way into her chest and sat there, taking up any space she had left.

Theodore nodded in support as Mizuki explained the situation to the fairy. It was direct, much better than the strung out, misdirected explanation he had been trying to spin in his mind. The fairy looked, burdened as Mizuki spoke. As if the mention of the person carried more weight than they had initially expected. Fear dropped into the pit of his stomach. Had something already happened to Cecil in the past? Were they already too late?

Terra took a deep breath before responding to the vampires. “I don’t know where he is,” she said. Her expression had fallen from its energetic expression from earlier, showing clear signs of worry and exasperation. “I haven’t seen or heard from him in months, but I do know him.”

She looked to the side as the goblin from earlier gave out a rough grunt in her direction. She tucked her hair behind her ears, shooting the vampires a “hold that thought” look before walking down to refill the goblin’s beer.

Theodore turned excitedly to Mizuki once the fairy left. “Look at that! First try and we found someone who knows him? Lucky huh?”

He took a deep sip of the drink before him. He had been nervously sipping it in the time that they had received them, leaving only a fraction of the drink left. The warm sting of the alcohol lingered in his throat.

“I think we’re off to a good start here, maybe she’ll even know some places where he hangs out,” Theodore looked over to Mizuki as he spoke. He noted her pupils were thinner than usual, her hands tucked tightly into themselves. She was on edge. His brow furrowed, but the excitement quickly washed his concern from its place in his mind.
Terra returned back to the vampires, her time with the goblin and away from their expectant faces long enough to allow her to run over various options. She crossed her arms and leaned back into the bar. Terra began lightly biting the inside of her cheeks, a nervous and bad habit whenever presented with a difficult or thoroughly involved decision.

“Alright,” She sighed, looking up at the two with a renewed exuberance lining underneath her features. The fear and worry that still stirred around in her chest were masked heavily with her smile. “I have a shift change in an hour. If you hang around until then, I can take you to some of the places I know Cecil frequents. Usually I just wait for him to come to me but--” She trailed off, her gaze growing distant in thought. She shook her head, curls bouncing lightly in the air from the movement. Terra smiled “I’ll try to finish up as soon as possible. Why don’t you play some cards or something while you wait?”

Terra turned away from the two and dove back into her bar duties with a renewed sense of speed. She shoved the ominous feeling of travelling alone in the black market with two vampires deep into the pit of her chest, burying it with determination and will to find Cecil.

 

[Razvi-sama]

​

Mizuki Chiba
Mood: Nervous, embarrassed, optimistic
Location: Black Market - The Dead Salamander ​

Mizuki understood, yet the fact that she understood...made the vampire a little concerned. Did Theodore...often feel misunderstood, overall? Did he often feel...lost? Alone? She eyed the vampire sympathetically, almost tempted to reach forward and squeeze his hand reassuringly...almost wishing to tell him that...he didn't have to be lost anymore.

Yet, the vampire kept to herself. She barely knew the vampire, and didn't believe it was her place to say anything. To comfort him when she could barely comfort herself. They should be focusing at the situation at hand, and the situation was that they were surrounded by creatures they had no idea how to properly deal with if anything were to go awry. They were in a dingy, grimy bar and they were completely and utterly alone in the shadows of the Black Market.

Not only that, they were faced with a fairy who had a whip-like tongue and was already looking down upon them as if they were inferior, somehow...and that only managed to annoy Mizuki. The vampire eyed the fairy warily as she kept invalidating their mission, their presence down in the Black Market. It made her feel inferior and small, and to have a fairy of all creatures look down upon them...it was a little embarrassing.

She hated that this complete stranger, who knew nothing about them and their abilities, had the gal to make such offensive assumptions about them...so naturally...she grew upset. Mizuki never rose her voice, she never insulted the creature. She wasn't that kind of person and she grew up to respect all living creatures...though her more vampiric nature, her more...primal features began to sharpen. A tell tale sign that she was feeling an intense array of emotions and didn't have a source to properly process them.

Mizuki sat there as she eyed the fae...looking to her appraisingly as the bartender finally came to a stop at the very mention of Cecil, which only gave the indication that she clearly knew something about the man they were after. As the fairy turned to face them, Mizuki could practically feel her heart racing, the pulse rapidly beating underneath her skin. Blood rushing. Mizuki swallowed thickly, though she didn't do much else. She simply watched and silently wondered what was the cause of her anxiously fluttery heart. Was it her?

Ashamed for her natural instincts, Mizuki hid her claws within her palms, hands in fists and now shoved into her lap. She was probably being disrespectful, wasn't she? There was a moment, though...that she could feel a violent jolt in the poor bartender's heart at the very uttering of Cecil's name and that concerned her as she didn't want the bartender to get the wrong idea. They weren't there to hunt Cecil nor harm him, they genuinely just wanted to ask him a few questions and she made sure to express that.

Yet, as she spoke, Mizuki wasn't blind to their surroundings...to the hush that had fallen over the bar. Her gaze flicked to the sides to regard them discretely before she continued forward. S...She wasn't going to let them intimidate her. She wasn't in over her head! She was fine, she wouldn't prove to be a burden to Theodore, she didn't...want for him to regret asking her for help...

Mizuki finished her piece, looking to the fairy pleadingly for any tiny bit of information she could provide them. And, as she observed the woman...she saw...hesitation. Concern. The fae's anxieties seemed to be infectious, as she seemed to now think of worst case scenario and Mizuki came to the same conclusion as Theodore. Were they too late? Was this man never to be found? Were they back in square one?

Yet, the bartender didn't say anything, at first. It was almost as if she was weighing her options, mulling over Mizuki's words and wondering how to proceed...or even answer. Mizuki pursed her lips together nervously, brows puckered together as she practically leaned forward in hopes for a response. Any response. And, finally...

After a deep breath, Terra finally looked their way, her eyes fluttering open to take in their imagine and...in her tone? Mizuki heard sincerity behind her words. She upbeat personality from before had disappeared and worry etched at her every line. The vampire felt sympathy and her eyes began to dilate back to normal. She frowned, "I'm sorry to hear that and I do apologize if what we're mention...who we're mentioning...is bringing up a lot of complicated feelings. It wasn't our intention to burden you, we're just...desperate", she insisted softly, showing the fairy the same vulnerability she was showing them. At least, it was hopeful...knowing the fairy knew of him. Maybe she knows about his involvement with the Council? With...Maximus?

Though, the fairy quickly fluttered away, assuring them silently that she would be back as the goblin from down the counter began to growl at her impatiently. Oh! Right. She nodded and offered the little woman a small smile before she allowed herself to deflate...she was exhausted. All she wanted to do now was lay down...All of this was taking an emotional toll on her, and her social battery was utterly drained. She rubbed at her eyes tiredly, only to quickly perk up as Theodore reminded her of his presence.

...and he was looking to her with such bright excitement that Mizuki couldn't help but offer him a sweet smile, trying to match his excitement, "Maybe the Moon, Herself, heard our prayers and is finally gracing us with an ounce of mercy. About time", she chuckled softly, a gentle jest, "I think we really needed to end today on a positive note, hm?". She rose her glass and...delicately clinked the rim of his glass with her own in a tiny celebration. With that, she turned the drink her way and took a small sip of her Lemon Sour, enjoying the acidity and the mild...artificial warmth that spread through her body.

Mizuki shrugged, "Maybe, but her initial reaction is concerning, so we should keep our expectations realistic, for now. But, really, any information she can give us will be of great help", she assured, trying to stay optimistic, even if it was only for Theodore.

Though, Terra soon returned and Mizuki switched her attention over to the fairy only to note her initial nervousness. She sat patiently, giving the fairy the space she needed to gather her thoughts...before she finally spoke up, and even smiled. Mizuki straightened her back, offering the bartender a softer, kinder expression than she had before and her initial annoyance...had melted away. Understanding the fairy's perspective and trying to put herself in her shoes. Yet, instead of information, the bartender announced that her shift would end in an hour. They could wait for her, and once she was finished...she would even go as far as to guide them towards a place where Cecil normally frequented. She said something else...but her voice had tapered away and Mizuki wouldn't dare press her when she just met her, and she was doing them a favor.

She seemed momentarily lost, only to quickly shake out of her reverie only to turn to them with renewed vigor. Her curls were enchanting and Mizuki's gaze took a moment to appreciate their volume and general...life. "O-Oh. O-Okay, thank you so much for helping us out, you didn't have to go so far to spend your time off with us...but trust me when I say we really appreciate this", she insisted kindly, only to watch her flutter away.

With that, she was gone...off serving other patrons in the bar and Mizuki was left feeling a little...empty. They had an hour to do...nothing. It was just the two of them for now, again. She began to look about the bar, accustomed to the spell and general aesthetic at this point. She looked over her shoulder...noted the strange fellow from before had disappeared. He must have gone with those large orcs from before...Hm. Well, she wished him a good life.

The bartender had left them with the suggestion of playing cards and she..."Well, that went well", Mizuki hummed, only to soon gasp and turn to grasp at Theodore's forearm, staring up at him with a wide and panicked gaze, "...we don't even know her name", she whispered, "...we didn't introduce ourselves". Gasp! "What if she thinks we're rude?", she whined weakly, "...she's doing us this favor and we didn't even bother to ask...we'll ask her when she gets back", she insisted, more to herself than Theodore.

Mizuki rested her hands back over her lap and looked around for a bathroom, "I'm going to step away for a second, wash my hands...they feel a little grimy", she murmured, "And, then...we'll put your poker face through a test with a quick game to pass the time. Her suggestion actually sounded nice", she hummed, motioning to hop off of the bar stool, "I'll be right back", she assured, leaving her bag with Theodore and offering the man a beaming, bright smile before she walked off to the nearest bathroom...praying it wasn't another horror show.

...several minutes passed by...before Mizuki returned from the bathroom. She was drying her hands with paper towels and rose her gaze up towards her companion who sat...prettily over the bar's counter...

Mizuki grinned as she slid back to take her seat beside him, motioning towards her drink and raising the glass to her tender lips...only to suddenly down the contents in one gulp. Mizuki grimaced momentarily, before she rested the glass gently back over the coaster provided to her and looked over Theodore from the corner of her gaze. Her pupils had returned to slits. No claws.

Her smile became...sultry, roguish...her grin stretched out as she leaned against the counter lazily. Her back was curved out to entice, legs crossed together as she shifted her body to face Theodore a little better...her arms snaking around his own to press his bicep against her chest, "...actually...", she purred softly, "...scratch what I just said to you before going to the bathroom", she giggled, "...I had quite the...productive trip to the bathroom and found out some information on my own about Cecil...we don't need the fairy, we shouldn't really be trusting a third party into our schemes, don't you think?", she hummed softly, leaning up to ghost her lips against his ear, "...let's get out of here. The sooner we find this Cecil, the better, hm? Come on, let's go...", she insisted softly, "And, later...we could celebrate for getting this far...don't you want to?".

 

[Pepsionne]

Theodore | Terra
Mood: Flustered | Mood: Frustrated, paranoid
Location: The Dead Salamander​

"I'm sorry to hear that and I do apologize if what we're mention...who we're mentioning...is bringing up a lot of complicated feelings. It wasn't our intention to burden you, we're just...desperate" The vampire woman said. Her words were heavy with sincerity, the body language that had shot a bolt of fear down Terra’s chest dissipating with each second. She almost looked, regretful.

Terra smiled slightly, the action making her round cheeks look more full. “With Cecil--there is no such thing as simple. He only resides in complicated feelings.”

She nodded in understanding, her movements still tightened by the discomfort in her body. A regretful attitude wasn’t going to change the fact that what she was doing--was dangerous. She didn’t want to become the next ghost story to meander its way through the black market, one that caused every fairy to look over their shoulder when travelling alone.

That thought persisted in her body, lining her movements with fear despite her efforts to remain her normal jovial self while returning to her work serving drinks. As long as she kept a bright smile on her face, the drinkers before her barely noticed a thing.

She looked up and to the side without thinking, almost as if her gaze was being dragged over by someone. Terra froze momentarily. It was that kid from before, sauntering out of the back office where Jax worked. He glanced at her out of the corner of his eye as he walked, his gaze barely visible through the tangle of hair obscuring his face. Terra was sucked into the dark look of his eyes, paralyzed by it, before he looked away and moved onwards. She yelped in surprise to feel the cold fizzing liquid of ale running down her hand. She had accidentally overfilled a mug.

Terra sighed and shook her head, shaking off the sticky cold liquid from her hand. She was frustrated. She handed the overfilled mug to the orc before her, who smiled gratefully. He took the messy glass, foam dripping over the sides, with gusto. “See, I told you Terra liked me better!” He joked to his friend.

Terra wiped her hands on the towel draped over her shoulder, offering an exuberant laugh to the pair before her. Whatever was going on, she really needed to get her shit together.

Theodore laughed at Mizuki’s frantic panic over manners. Whatever agitation had overtaken her earlier, it seemed to have passed rather quickly. He could feel her energy begin to lessen and return to its normal, smooth flow around him.

He placed a hand on her shoulder to give her a gentle shake. “Mizuki, I’m sure that’s the last thing that’s on her mind. Besides--” He gestured to the bar around them, “I don’t really think the manners here are on the same caliber as Samantha’s party last night.”

Theodore nodded as Mizuki excused herself to the restroom. His eyes filled with bright amusement as she hopped from the bar stool, glancing back to give him a sunny smile. He fiddled with the stem of his drink while he waited for Mizuki to return, eyes scanning the small, smoke filled bar. More people had arrived since they had first entered. It seemed like a place that peaked around this time of night. Ambient conversation mixed with the pulse of the music began to emit a cacophonous roar. He closed his eyes and hung his head down slightly, taking in all the noise and letting it coarse through his system.

When he opened his eyes once more, Theodore expected to see Mizuki on her way back or already having returned. He looked around in the direction she had left originally, concern knitting his brows together. Theodore tilted the arm resting on the bar, turning the face of his watch, its face dyed a brilliant red in the light, to check the time. It had been a couple of minutes since she had left. Was she okay? Had one of the bar goers cornered her in the bathroom? He knew Mizuki was strong enough to hold her own if they attacked her, but worried about her concern for manners. Was she stuck in an awkward conversation?

His blooming panic quickly died as he saw Mizuki approach her seat while drying her smooth hands with a paper towel. She sat down next to him, and Theodore opened his mouth to ask her if everything was alright. His words became lodged in his throat as he saw her pick up her drink with a smooth, almost seductive like mannerism behind it. His mind stuttered in its thought process as she downed the whole drink in one go. Okay--he had definitely been in that mood before. Maybe she just wanted to get it down before they went over to play cards.

Theodore shook off the confusion, letting it roll down his back like water. He brought his own drink up to his lips to finish the last bit he had left, his head tilted back slightly from the movement. He set the glass down as he swallowed, looking over towards Mizuki as an expression he had never seen on her took over her features. He choked on the alcohol as it passed down his throat, covering his mouth with his fist in an awkward fumble. Maybe it was the red light playing tricks on him.

Theodore’s gaze shifted nervously back over to his side as he felt the gentle pressure of Mizuki’s hands slide over his arm. He stared down at her arms which now encircled his own. They were dainty and thin, but the pressure they held was substantial.

“Productive?” He echoed back, the jumbled fuzz of confusion keeping any relevant thought from permeating his brain. “I mean--I don’t want to trust a third party in this either, which is why I haven’t told Layla--but--but,” His voice halted in panic as he felt Mizuki slide further into him, her soft breath washing over his ear. He could smell the sharp zip of lemon and sting of alcohol.

He shook his head for several seconds in pure confusion. “Mizuki, what--what are you talking about?” He looked at her square in the eyes, his gaze flicking back and forth between her own as he searched for an explanation as to what had just happened. “I--I’m just not sure I understand you right now, I’m sorry.”

Theodore shifted awkwardly in his seat. Why was it so hot in here all of a sudden? He pulled on the collar of his shirt, glancing up and over at the bar. The fairy was working quickly and steadily.

He looked back over at Mizuki, having taken a moment to catch his breath and cool down, before responding. “I mean--are you sure it’s a good idea to just leave without telling her? It seems like she went out on a limb for us and judging by her expression--I think she more than knows Cecil. I think there’s a deeper relationship going on there.” He paused, his mind blanking as his gaze settled back on her arms which were still resting against his own arm.

Theodore glanced back up at Mizuki, a hazy look glassing over his eyes. “Don’t you think?”

 

[Razvi-sama]

Mizuki Chiba
Mood: ???
Location: Black Market - The Dead Salamander ​

With Cecil—there is no such thing as simple. He only resides in complicated feelings. Those words lingered over the vampire's mind even after the bartender had fluttered off to finish the rest of her shift. It seemed they had found the one person who seemed to have a personal relationship with this mystery man they were chasing after, and that was certainly something to celebrate.

Mizuki had been eyeing the fairy from over Theodore's form. She was zipping around, back and forth, serving her patrons as best she could. All with a cheery smile stretched across her face. There was a moment she seemed to grow distracted and Mizuki, curiously, shifted her attention to the side to see what had possibly caught the woman's attention...only to feel Theodore's hand press down against her shoulder and shake her.

Mizuki blinked back towards the vampire, before a puff of laughter began to trickle out of her. His touch was comforting, and it felt natural. Normally, she didn't really like it when people touched her, but she knew his intentions were kind and innocent. Plus, if they were going to start working together, she had to trust in him more, right? The two of them now shared in this secret no one else in their community would be privy to. It was just them...against the world. In a way. That thought soothed the vampire as she smiled sweetly up to the vampire. Her cheeks lightly dyed in a red hue, "I suppose you're right...etiquette has been engrained in my head since I woke up—", she paused, clearing her throat and stopping herself before she dared say anything else. That wasn't something she wanted to get into, right now.

"Anyway!", she chirped, "I still think we should properly introduce ourselves. I think we started this little back and forth a little tense with her. I don't blame her, though. From what I heard, other creatures don't really enjoy our kind that much", she hummed, sighing.

With the promise of a friendly game of poker, Mizuki hopped off of the barstool that was a little too tall for someone of her average height, seeing the stools were mostly made for larger creatures like the goblins and orcs. She landed firmly and gracefully, looking over her shoulder to offer her companion a beaming smile and a wave before she headed off towards the bathroom. She kept to herself, ignoring the stares and lingering eyes that followed her as she padded over towards the bathroom.

When she closed the door behind her, the noise outside had become muted and it was actually...rather clean given where they were. She was able to take this moment to take in a deep breath and gather herself before rejoining with Theodore...

...or so she thought...

Mizuki returned to the vampire's side with a skip to her step and a sway to her hips. She slid back up against the bar stool next to the handsome young man sitting oh so lonesome against the sticky counter. Back curved, calculated movements...Mizuki reached for the drink before her and down the contents in one gulp, pressing the glass back down against the coaster before she dragged her tongue over her lips, her gaze locked over the vampire beside her. He really was cute. She eyed him from the corner of her gaze, her piercing stare dragging over his form appraisingly...giving the man a single one-up...almost as if she had been undressing the man with a single glance. The man nearly choked, though, upon noticing how...forthright she had become, and the woman couldn't help but grin a little mischievously. He really was adorable! Look at the way he fumbled around, practically short circuiting beside her! She hadn't seen a reaction like this in...centuries.

Mizuki finally turned to face him properly, though, her arms beginning to snake around his own as she nudged his body forward, nudging him closer and pressing him flush against her. She leaned up, noting...no—smelling his confusion, but she paid no mind to it. If she played her cards right, she could get him out of the bar.

Mizuki began to whisper softly against his ear, her lips ghosting his sensitive skin. Her breath tickling him. She informed him of her "productive" trip to the bathroom, beginning to coax him and insist to him that they should leave, they didn't need to involve the fairy. But. He was hesitant. Of course, he was hesitant.

He was now actively questioning her, though, and she couldn't help the bitter, bubble of annoyance that began to swell inside of her. No matter, she's had stubborn men in the past, she could work with this one.

"...my, don't you trust me?", Mizuki softly cooed, pulling away so that she could eye the vampire as he searched her gaze, "There's nothing to understand. I received some pretty trustworthy intel on where to find Cecil and we don't need the fairy. Really, do you want to have some third-party who seems to emotionally involved in the person we're tracking down? There's room for bias, and due to that same emotion...well, she might lead us astray. Trick us! We can't trust anyone in the Black Market, don't you agree? I think we should back and leave", she stated firmly.

The vampire seemed to take a breath and Mizuki's lips stretched out. He was caving. Her fangs were in full display for the first time, as the vampire was pretty conservative with who she showed her fangs to. But, not this time, "...yes, yes, you see how tense she was before, no? I'm sure she's rather wary of us...it's best if we just get out of her hair...okay?", she asked delicately, offering him a pouty, innocent look before she quickly shifted into something more...suggestive.

Mizuki slid away from his hold, her hands dipping down bellow them. One hand rested tentatively against his thigh, the other reached for his hand and rose his palm up to her lips where she pressed a delicate kiss against the soft skin, "...again...don't you trust me?", she asked, her tone smooth as she flicked her eyes back up towards him, "...come on, let's go. It'll be fine, I promise. It'll be quicker this way", she insisted.

Mizuki finally pulled away and brought her hands back to herself, shoving them into her bag as she looked for a wallet, a wallet...there! Huh. What a plain wallet. She opened it up, found a few dollars and shoved them against the counter to pay for the drinks before she hopped back off the barstool. She extended her hand towards Theodore in a silent ask that he take her hand, "Let's go", she ordered as she smiled, "The fairy will get over it. We're perfect strangers and I'm sure she could care less. We'll have a talk with Cecil and then we'll enjoy the rest of our evening...together", she hummed, a soft hymn of influence added into her words as she tried to coax the vampire away, "Okay?".

 

[Pepsionne]

Theodore shook his head in short, rapid movements. “I’m not sure, Mizuki. My gut is telling me to trust her--the way she talks about Cecil, I don’t know. I think I see myself in that gaze. How I feel about Samantha.”

He looked back over to the fairy as she worked the bar. The woman’s features were jovial and energetic, but there was a tightness to them. A forcefulness lining her wide smile. Theo was all too familiar with faking emotions, he could sense the worry she buried underneath.

Theodore’s muscles froze when he felt Mizuki’s hand slip away from his arm and travel down---down to his leg to rest gently against his thigh. She brought his hand up to her mouth and laid a light kiss.

Without thinking, like Mizuki’s movements had triggered a knee jerk reaction, Theodore stood up from the bar stool suddenly. His erratic movement sent his glass tipping over to tumble to the floor, it high pitched shatter sending a shockwave of silence across the bar.

“I--you know--Mizuki--I just-- it’s enough.” He looked at her harshly, his voice unusually deep in its firmness. His gaze searched her features, seemingly unrecognizable to him in the current moment. It was still Mizuki, the same gentle eyes, soft lips and full cheeks. She looked the same so why--why was she acting so different? Why did he feel so differently around her?

Theodore cleared his throat smoothly, retaking his seat with a fresh demeanor. He squeezed his eyes shut, pinching the bridge of his nose. Conversation began to drip out slowly, bit by bit, until people lost interest and the steady stream flowed around him once more.

"Sorry," He said after moments of thick silence had passed between them. His voice was soft, barely audible over the loud chatter of the bar goers. "I'm sorry I didn't mean to yell. I just want to get this right, I don't have time to mess up. Not with this."

Terra’s head snapped up when she heard the commotion down at the bar. The vampire man looked--unnerved and confused. He had taken his seat after the momentary anger had passed over him. It didn't take long for the sophisticated demeanor to return smoothly to his person. The vampire woman on the other hand--Terra’s brow furrowed deeply. The female seemed nothing like the mild mannered woman she had encountered before.

She grabbed a broom and dustpan from the bar before making her way back over to the mess the two had made. Terra paused before them, leaning her hand against the bar ledge.

"Everything okay down here?" She asked, one brow raised curiously. The man looked up at her, his face twisted into frustration and anguish before it quickly slid into a congenial expression.

"We're great, I just got a little--startled is all," Theodore laughed smoothly. "I apologize for the glass."

Terra waved her hand dismissively. "Yeah it's not a problem," she said. Her eye shot over to the side at the Vampire woman, her suspicions of her heightening after being so close. There was a faint tingling in her chest, something about this situation felt--wrong.

She moved around the bar and out towards the main area of seats, finding the glittering shards of glass rather easily. Terra began sweeping up the small bits little by little, going slower than usual in the hopes that she could pick up on the vampires' conversation once it resumed.

 

[Razvi-sama]

Mizuki Chiba
Mood: Pissed, pained, worried
Location: Black Market - The Dead Salamander ​

Samantha? Mizuki's gaze shifted towards the fairy, eyeing her warily, "Well, well, aren't you the sympathetic type?", she rolled her eyes, "Come on, don't be ridiculous. That only means that she would do anything to keep him safe, and if she views us as a threat...all she would do is try to lead us astray, taking us further...and further away from our goal. Don't you think? You're being blinding by your emotions, and quite honestly it's a little pathetic?", she scoffed, a hint of laughter following after as if to show there were "no hard feelings".

She didn't preoccupy herself with the fairy. Her goal was the vampire and the vampire alone. She needed to drag him away. Do you know how much a vampire's head would go for under the shadows in the Black Market? A lot. She would be set for life, seeing how rare it was to hunt one down. And, he seemed rather...sweet to his companion, so she thought...why not steal her face and use her to drag him away? It wasn't a fae or anyone who frequented the Market, or resided within it...so surely it was okay, right? Though, it seemed she only managed to miscalculate what their relationship was...as the man before her grew more and more uncomfortable. While she...grew annoyed.

So, she decided on a more...forward approach. Assuming he'd fall into her honey covered trap. What she hadn't expected, though...was him to react so violently. Mizuki flinched and jerked backwards, leaning away from the man as she stared wide-eyed at the hissing vampire. Her hand darted towards the counter beside her, digging her nails into the surface as if to keep herself from toppling over. Her breath caught in her throat, wondering...what exactly had tipped him over? He nearly smacked her trying to rip his hand out of her grip, almost as if...repulsed!

Mizuki stared at the man blankly for a while, taking in his general body language, reaction, and response as he spoke down to her, reprimanded her as if she was some huffy child. It was...insulting. Not for her, she didn't care less, but that poor girl! This was the man she was traveling with? Someone who would easily lose his temper over something so miniscule? Miniscule in her mind, of course. She winced, though did nothing to stop the glass from rolling over the counter and shattering before them...causing the bar to grow deafening silent. It was almost eerie and Mizuki looked about her a little nervously.

As if nothing, her companion returned to his seat. As he cleared his throat, he shook her out of her nervous trance, returning her attention back to the man and wondered if he was worth all of this trouble. He wasn't like her usual victims, and that was quite frustrating. Slowly...steadily...conversation began to trickle around them until the patrons no longer were interested in their little...spat.

Fine. If he was going to act like some petulant child, she could treat him as such. Her general nervousness shifted into annoyance as her eyes narrowed sharply, staring harshly at the vampire before her. Practically glowering, "So, your first reaction is to yell when all I am trying to do is help you?", she growled back at him, baring her fangs. She went from sultry and sweet...to bitter and resentful. Maybe...maybe...she could slather on the guilt and that would be enough to drag him away.

"All I'm seeing is that you don't trust me as you have stated before. I'm trying to help you and you push me away. Incredibly ungrateful, if you ask me—", she paused...as she heard the soft inquiry the fairy hummed towards them. Fuck. He caused too much of a commotion, too much attention was being directed towards them. Mizuki glanced anxiously towards the bathrooms. If she didn't hurry, then she—.

"We're fine", Mizuki bit out towards the fairy, eyeing her companion and wondering what she could do to take him. Did she have to drag him out? No, she didn't want to call too much attention to herself. She could smell the putrid angelic air around the bar, plus this establishment took their security rather seriously and those inside the bar didn't like her kind very much. Shit! She miscalculated, she didn't think he'd be so stubborn.

Mizuki eyed the vampire, her gaze lowering down to the fairy. She couldn't harm her. She couldn't force him away, and time was running out—She had to escape. "You're being ridiculous and quite honestly, I'm not longer in the mood to continue on in these charades. You know what, actually?", she laughed a little dryly, "I'm done. So, I'm just going to...", she gathered "her" things and grabbed her bag. She eyed the ground to make sure she wasn't about to step on glass—or a fairy's hand—and the moment she rested her foot off the barstool, ready to storm off...the bathroom door swung wide open.

...and...a dark...thick aura of murderous intent slid out along with it. And out...came a vampire ready to tear at someone's jugular.

Mizuki stepped out of the bathroom, her hair in disarray and a little wobbly, groaning as she cradled her head against her palm. She blearily stared out into the crowd, eyes in slits...claws sharp...as she stared down to see...her? Herself? She hissed like an pissy feline towards the imposter who suddenly darted away, slipping from hands reach before she could even try...It seemed her doppelganger noticed, because the moment she did her eyes widened and a look of fright suddenly overtook her body language. She quickly shifted, though, and offered her companion a toothy grin, "I'll see you later, keep you temper under control the next time I see you", she giggled, voice shifting as she forcibly kissed the man's cheek before she darted out towards the exit, shoving into the fairy before disappearing.

Mizuki took a step forward to try and stop her, but her head sharply punished her as she stumbled into the wall beside her, trying to keep herself steady. She had been minding her business, washing her hands when the sight of Theodore appeared before her. She...found it stranger that the vampire followed her to the bathroom, but was about to turn and ask if he was okay when she was suddenly hit over the head. But, seeing that she had been talking to him to begin with...

A surge of panic ran through her as Mizuki shoved through her headache and dizzy sight and pushed forward, towards where she last saw Theodore and the bartender! She was sweeping up glass! "Are you two okay?", she gasped, only to quickly double over the counter beside her to once more keep herself up straight. She knew she would heal soon enough, but right now she...she probably shouldn't force herself into any sudden movements.

"...gods, I let my guard down for a moment...I suppose I got a little overconfident", Mizuki murmured, not really understanding what had...happened to begin with. She looked to the bartender apologetically, almost as if to say: "you were right". She looked a little ashamed and could barely even raise her eyes up to Theodore.

 

[Pepsionne]

Theodore | Terra | Jax
Location: The Dead Salamander
Mood: Frustrated, worried | Mood: Skeptical, attentive​

The mounting frustration in Theodore’s chest continued to fold upon itself, each new crease multiplying the layers of anger in his chest tenfold. He clenched his fist tightly, index finger scratching at the tender space in between his thumb and his palm. Why was Mizuki being so persistent? Why wouldn’t she just listen to him like she had been earlier in the day? Her undivided attention to the problems most of the people in his life shrugged off as trivial was the main reason he had begun to feel so close to her. So--drawn to her. But now--now this aggravated pushiness was beginning to tear out the roots of trust he had sown earlier

He cast a sideways glance at her expression as the word pathetic’ was uttered from her mouth. There was a thin veneer of tension and discomfort to her features, almost as if there was someone stuck underneath her skin, puppeteering her from the inside.

The frustration reached its pinnacle when Mizuki slid forward boldly and began pressing herself up against him. The sudden surprise and wave of some unknown feeling washing over him were too much. Instinctively, Theodore snapped, his momentary release of mounting frustration ending in a glittering shower of glass and dead silence.

When things had begun to calm down and return to its normal bar flow, he apologized for the short outburst. It was uncalled for, he knew, but for Mizuki to continue pressing into the wound that was created, never letting up on the firm pressure, it was exhausting. He shifted in his chair squeamishly, almost as if he was itching to get up and run out of the bar at any moment. Her words seared against his skin like a hot knife. He hated being yelled at, let alone being yelled at by someone who had only ever shown him kindness before.

Thankfully, the fairy bartender from earlier came to check out the commotion and clean up the mess that he had made. Theodore breathed easier knowing he’d have someone to step in lest Mizuki continue in the hostility her words were dripping with.

He hung his head down, palm pressed against his forehead like he was nursing a terrible headache. What the hell was going on right now? How was this the same person who had so timidly sipped her drink beside him just two seconds ago? A gentle feeling of dread began to amass in his chest, the cloud growing quickly from a thin wisp, to full, thick plumes of smoke. Something was not right here.

Terra’s gaze narrowed as she took in the vampire woman before her. Earlier, she had sensed a sort of aggravation within her, maybe something Terra had said had offended her, but her anger was masked with a sense of cordiality. Now, the biting words she lashed through the air carried no sense of caution or empathy for how they would affect the recipient. Her eyes flicked over to the man, who was cradling his head in his palm. His neat hair had turned disheveled from how many times he had run a hand through it. Pieces of the wavy strands stuck out in odd directions. The poor vampire. To have an outburst that dramatic meant there was a lot going on within him. Add a viciously biting monster at your side and well--she wouldn’t be surprised if he got up and simply walked the hell away. He sure looked like he wanted to.

Terra gave the woman a tight smile in response to her dismissive comments. Not worth her time. She maneuvered to grab the broom from the small corner of the bar before walking out to the general area. She swept up the small pieces scattered across the sticky tile floor. Her movements slowed in confusion as she heard the sound of panic begin to fill the vampire woman’s words. She could hear the short, tight breaths that came with someone feeling trapped or rushed.

Terra turned around to face the bar, her mouth poised to say something to the couple once more. Her jaw went slack as the bathroom door was thrust open, and out walked--the vampire woman? Terra’s eyes whipped over to the woman who had previously been at the bar, only to see her roughly grab the man beside her and force a sloppy kiss onto his cheek.
The man reeled back, knocking into the bar stool behind him and nearly falling onto his back. His weight sounded with a hard thump against the counter as he caught himself.

Terra let out a grunt in anger as the woman made a quick escape out of the bar. “Fuck,” She said angrily. “I thought they knew not to come in here,” She let out a harsh sigh before yelling out into the back, “Jax! You need to come out here!”

Theodore picked himself up after nearly tumbling back onto the cold, damp floor beneath them. The feeling of the--imposter’s kiss on his cheek still burned with a ghost trace. He rubbed his cheek discreetly in the attempt to hopefully forget the feeling.

After gaining his bearings once more, Theodore was finally able to take in the sight of Mizuki, hair disheveled, as she unsteadily made her way over to him and the fairy. When he saw her, an odd feeling of calm washed over him. She felt--right--this time.

“Are we okay?” Theodore said, locking eyes with the fairy in disbelief. “We should be asking you that!”

He reached forward to gently touch her chin, moving it upwards in order to fully check her head for injuries. He touched her temple where the hair was matted down and wet, fingers pulling away with blood. “Hey I think you should sit down actually,” He suggested, pulling up one of the chairs from a nearby table and guiding her into the seat.

Theodore glanced over at the fairy as she kneeled down to inspect Mizuki’s wound. She pushed the hair back slightly to reveal the bloodied skin around her forehead. The fairy glanced back at Theodore with a concerned look. “Go in the back office and get Jax for me please? Tell him Terra wants his ass out here now, and to bring the first aid kit.”

Theodore nodded quickly, still in a tight panic at seeing Mizuki’s blood on his fingers. The smell overtook his senses, he couldn’t even smell the heavy smoke that weighed down the air.

Terra gave a soft smile to Mizuki, sensing the guilt and shame that buzzed around the woman. “Don’t worry about it,” She said. “Everyone has a story about their first time in the market. Don’t worry about what could have happened, just focus on what did. You two are alive and safe, a succubus is a hell of a foe too. Even I’m terrified of them. Theodore did great.” She squeezed Mizuki’s arm reassuringly before drawing back a step to give the woman her space. “I’ll take you guys to find Cecil once we get your wound attended to.”

Theodore wandered back to the office where Terra had instructed him. He was greeted by a dimly lit, small hallway with several doors lining it. They all had peeling paint and missing screws. Did they really not upkeep anything in this place? He moved forward down the hallway where a stronger beam of light slipped through the crack of a door.

He paused at the entryway hesitantly, then after a beat of hyping himself up, knocked lightly.

“What,” A gruff voice grunted from within.

Theodore pushed open the door just enough to peek his head in, the movement filling the small space into an echo of rusty creaking from the ill kept hinges. A green figure that looked--almost human--sat before him, running his thick fingers through stacks of paper. He lifted his yellow eyes up to Theodore, the narrowed skepticism boring straight through him. He stood and returned the harsh gaze of the orc. Theodore had dealt with people like this before, the best thing to do to gain their interest was to stand there and take their attention with confidence. He lifted his chin up and rested a hand on the doorknob, pushing it open further.

“Terra send you?” The man said, his eyes running down Theodore’s figure. “You’re a little far from home aren’t you?” He cracked a smile. “Haven’t seen a vampire down here since the good days. Guess I’m getting visits from all kinds of special supers now aren’t I?” He smiled wide, revealing the yellowed tusk like teeth that filled his mouth.

“Well I guess it’s your lucky day then,” Theodore said, keeping a stoic expression. “My friend was attacked in your bathroom by someone who looked just like her. Her heads banged up, Terra needs you, and I,” He pointed to the first aid kit crammed into the disheveled, messy shelf full of junk behind the man. “--need that first aid kit.”

The man sighed. “It’s just not my fucking night tonight now is it,” He pushed his chair back in frustration. He stood up and grabbed the med kit from behind him, the now vacant space in the shelf causing pieces that were once locked in place to shift and slide like an avalanche. The man didn’t even flinch as several small boxes fell to the floor. “First I got the order sniffing around in here, then a damned succubus manages to slither her dirty way in,” He huffed in disbelief. “You’d think that kid would’ve sensed the bitch when he was here. What a lousy excuse for an angel.” The man scratched his beard, shifting his train of thought as he did so. He looked up at Theodore, yellow eyes gleaming with mischief, before he rapidly threw the first aid kit his way with no warning.

Theodore caught the kit, barely blinking at the sudden attack. The man smiled. “Guess what they say is true, huh, your kind does have those fast reflexes they talk about,” He laughed gruffly, before maneuvering out from behind the desk. He gestured for Theodore to lead the way.

Terra looked behind as she heard the familiar grunts of movement of Jax. “What, you don’t answer your employees in times of emergency now?” She glared at the orc.

Jax shrugged. “You never said it was an emergency, how am I supposed to know the difference from a normal call for my help? You guys ask for too damned much all the time. I’ve developed selective hearing.”

Terra glanced at Mizuki and rolled her eyes. “Well whatever, it happened and she’s gone already. But you’re going to have to double down on security for a little while. I don’t like how easily she was able to get in here.”

Jax scratched his beard. “Yeah--I’m working on that.”

Theodore handed the first aid kit to Terra, who opened it quickly and began to work on dressing Mizuki’s wounds. She dabbed at the small spot of blood on her forehead, her thoughts churning slowly about their next moves.

“Well--” She began as she worked. “I think in light of what’s just happened, we should all take a second to cool off before we go hunting for Cecil.” She glanced back at Theodore, who was leaning against one of the bar stools. The frustration and confusion from earlier had to have taken a mental toll. “My apartment is not far from here, why don’t we go there and recalibrate before we go out again? I have to change anyways.” She glanced at Mizuki. “What do you say?”

 

[Razvi-sama]

Mizuki Chiba
Mood: Pained, worried, embarrassed
Location: Black Market - The Dead Salamander ​

Mizuki awoke stuffed into one of the bathroom stalls, cramped against a corner with a metal pipe sticking into her side. Her body was sore, and she felt sluggish and hazy. Her head bloomed with a splitting headache and she groaned out weakly to herself. Her voice echoing from wall to wall. G-Gods. What happened? One moment she was turning to ask Theodore if he was okay, the next...nothing.

Mizuki peeled herself out of the stall's corner, hobbling out and shoving the door wide open until it slammed into the wall beside it. She stumbled out and found herself practically draping over the bathroom's sink rather pathetically. She felt a little nauseous from the general dizziness as she peered up into the mirror and stared at her image. Her white t-shirt was stained with pale smudges and her hands felt grime-y. Her hair was in complete disarray from its usual upkept and polished style. Her hair always brushed back to perfection. But, now...it stuck to her temple grotesquely.

Mizuki loomed over the bathroom sink, trying to keep herself from passing out a second time. What—? Theodore! A sharp gasp escaped the female vampire as she whipped around, nearly toppling over from the sudden movement, but she pushed forward. She knew Theodore would never purposefully hurt her, r-right? And, the sentiment was only solidified as she slammed against the bathroom's exit, a loud thud following after as she stared out into the crowds only to find herself...forcibly kissing Theodore! The vampire nearly fell backwards and Mizuki let out a gutural and feral growl towards the imposter, hissing after her...but in the blink of an eye she was gone. The vampire heaved, her breaths coming in rapidly and forcibly. Her head was killing her...she felt so faint. But, what kept her conscious was the worry that began to plague her as she focused solely on Theodore.

Mizuki rushed up to the two, using the sticky counter beside her to keep herself propped up as she asked the two if they were okay. Her nerves fluttered with fear, wincing when she fairy called out for some man named 'Jax'. Her sensitive hearing wasn't aiding her headache. Was Theodore hurt? Why did he topple over? Why did the bartender have to call out a third party to assist them? Was it grave—?

Though, Mizuki's fretting came to a halt as she witnessed Theodore pick himself up, suddenly turning to look at her almost...relieved. That caused her to pause in her steps as she drank in his attention. She seemed a little lost, a little dazed...only to snap out of it when he finally addressed her, "Me?", she asked a little softly, a little dumbly. O-Oh! Right, "I-I'm fine, but I saw...", she trailed off, letting out a shaky breath. No, he looked okay. As she gave the vampire a once-over, she saw no traces of any wounds nor did she smell blood on him. What she did catch scent of...was the imposter's scent absolutely drenched over Theodore. She frowned. What happened between them? What had she done or said to him using her face—?

Mizuki felt everything still the moment she felt Theodore's cool touch over her chin, not having expected the sudden proximity. Instinctively, Mizuki tilted her head back when she felt his fingers gingerly press against her skin, giving the vampire further access to whatever it was he was looking for. His hand ghosted upwards to feel the pads of his fingers, and for a moment her eyes slid closed and she was even leaning into his touch looking so relieved—ah! Mizuki flinched when he touched her, peeking down to see his fingers covered in...her blood. Oh. She nodded silently as she felt his hand press against her back and gently guided her towards a nearby table with his soft encouragement. She sat down, taking small steady breaths as the bartender knelt before her to get a better look at her wound. Her cheeks reddened, not entirely enjoying the proximity and attention, but still appreciating the level of care and concern behind their actions. Ah, but she felt so ashamed and embarrassed, not comfortable with the extra attention. She made sure to not make any sudden movements or gestures, as the bartender leaned close to brush back her hair and examine the wound—.

Her name was Terra? Mizuki's eyes widened in awe as she looked to the fairy, "Terra", she sounded out in a soft murmur, her smile gently stretching into a kind smile. She did momentarily grow distracted when Theodore was asked to leave, a pit of dread forming over her gut. She didn't want to be away from him for very long and she was afraid something would happen to him...yet, all it took was one smile. One smile from Terra and Mizuki's nerves...eased.

Why did it feel so effortless with her, in that moment? Why did she feel so reassured with a single smile? Yet, it wasn't just a smile. Terra's soft words seemed to melt the vampire as she nodded in response to what was being said to her. Everyone has a story about their first time in the Market? Mizuki couldn't help a soft little laugh, "...hm, I can't wait to share the brave tales with my brethren of how I got 'bonked' on the head in an abandoned bathroom. Truly, a show of courage and honor", she teased softly.

"...but, you're right, and...thank you for reassuring me. I just felt so...idiotic! They call us a human's natural predator, and yet they still managed to deceive me", Mizuki sighed woefully, her shoulders slumping in defeat, "...I saw Theodore in the bathroom's reflection, I didn't even think of the possibility that...", she trailed off and shook her head, "...it doesn't matter, I should be focusing on what did happen and really...I'm just so relieved Theodore—and you—are okay...I saw "myself" across the bar, shards of broken glass, and Theodore stumbling backwards—I feared the worst", she murmured, her gaze falling over her lap with her hands neatly laced together over her lap.

Even I'm terrified of them. Mizuki's brows shot up as she raised her eyes up to the fairy, "You seem like you're not afraid of anything, though", she cooed, her tone soft and sincere...maybe even admiring, "I bet he did, though...Theodore is wonderful at anything he does and his intuition is incredibly sharp...I'm just happy he's okay", she murmured, raising a hand up to her chest as if to express her relief. She felt a small, warm hand against her arm...her eyes lowering down to Terra's hand and the vampire couldn't help the endearing smile that now graced her lips. Looking as if...she both needed the comfort and the reassurance.

"Absolutely, no worries at all. I'm...so sorry, though. Due to my carelessness, you were inconvenienced and I know you have to work...a-and...well...I'm truly very sorry", Mizuki bowed her head lowly to the fairy, "If there's something I can do to make up for the trouble, please let me know. You're doing so much for us, already", she insisted, but was grateful for the fairy's patience. Ugh! She only felt more like a fool for having grown so upset previously! Terra seemed so sweet...

"By the way...", Mizuki peeked around, seeing Theodore hadn't returned yet, "...my name is Mizuki and my companion's name is Theodore. I think some people call him 'Theo', though. I think it's only for those he considers close to", she hummed, "...but I wanted to formally introduce ourselves, since we'll be spending the rest of the evening together. Also...you have such a beautiful name, I've never come across such a name before", she offered kindly, her smile returning to something more bright and playful.

Mizuki turned her attention when she heard unfamiliar grunts and a heavier step vibrate underneath her feet. She was suddenly graced with the presence of a large orc and she didn't realize that this creature before them was...Jax. She had pictured him differently in her mind, after all. Her eyes widened and her head tilted back to regard the large man, bobbing her head in a small nod of acknowledgement his way. He had a playful back and forth between Terra, and to see such a little spit-fire fae talk back to an orc? Unheard of! At least, in Mizuki's mind. In just one evening...she had met an array of different creatures, breaking stereotypes left and right. She also looked pleased to find Theodore beside him, much more at ease now that the vampire had returned in her line of vision.

At the mention of a "she", though, Mizuki of course could assume they were talking about the...uh—succubus Terra had mentioned. To think such creatures truly existed. Mizuki was naturally curious and had a thirst to learn, though she supposed that was a topic for another day. If they were graced with a second time, "A-Ah, um—", the vampire turned to the orc, once more tilting her head back to regard him, "I'm really sorry about the mess within your bar", she insisted, just feeling the need to apologize to the world, "I can pay for the broken glass and any trouble we might have caused", she added, a little determined frown now painted her lips, only to completely flinch backwards when Terra added a disinfectant against her wounds. Ah! She...wow, she wasn't used to that horrid sensation.

Sheepishly, Mizuki apologized under her breath and leaned forward, promising to sit still as Terra helped her with her wound. She should have insisted this wasn't necessary. She did appreciate the fact that they were cleaning the wound and her hair, but...in half an hour or so...the wound would be completely healed.

The mention of an apartment, though...Mizuki's brows furrowed, "Terra, you're really going to let two strange vampires into your home? Vampires you just met?", she laughed weakly, "Of course, we wouldn't do anything, but...if you're sure and feel comfortable I personally wouldn't mind. It's just more for your...peace of mind. P-Plus! My wound will heal quickly, I promise. I'm already feeling much better", she assured, not wanting anyone to worry over her. Terra did say she needed to change, though..."We could even wait outside while you change, though?", she offered.

 

[Pepsionne]

Theodore | Terra | Cassius
Location: The Dead Salamander, Terra's Apartment, The sorcerer's bar | Location: The Sorcerer's Bar



Sorcerer's bar:

Spoiler: Terra's Apartment and Outfit

Terra was glad to see the vampire before her visibly sink into the chair with relief. The last thing she needed when tending to her wound was someone shook up with adrenaline and nerves. She knew that all too well from the tough brawlers she had to tend to after a bar fight. And there was usually a fight every shift she worked.

The other patrons in the bar seemed visibly stiffened from the idea of a succubus sneaking her way in. They knew all too well the dangers a creature like that could bring in with her. Though they appeared tough on the surface, they were just as susceptible to mind games and illusions as any other. Play a mind game with a succubus and nine out of ten times you’ll end up on the chopping block, quickly turning into a hot commodity for illegal body parts on the black market.

Terra laughed at Mizuki’s response, her cheeks full and rosy. “You can spare them the exact details when you recount it. Angels know all the guys in here dress up their bar fights and threats with a little bit of pizazz when the dust settles.” She shot the vampire a sly wink.

Her eyes widened in understanding as the woman summarized her experience with the succubus. “No, you were totally okay to feel panicked. The scene out here looked much worse than it was, with a succubus there is always safety in numbers,” She said.

Terra’s eyes lit up in amusement to hear the woman say she seemed unshakeable. “I wish! Ah, it’s probably because I’m so used to it down here. Used to feigning confidence so that people take me seriously. Obviously you see this end of the black market is no place for a fairy. But--you just can’t gamble like this anywhere else,” She let out a soft, dreamy sigh as her thoughts traveled to the memories of the grand tournaments bar would hold. She tilted her head curiously at the woman’s reaction to the mention of the other vampire. There was a sort of--innocent adoration in her voice, lining her features. Not yet love but the slow start of it, something unknown even to the Vampire herself. Terra wondered how long they had known each other, and what the circumstances were behind their relationship. They seemed like an odd pair for sure, but they somehow complimented each other at the same time. Her rich dark hair and inky eyes, his bright gaze and classic features. Terra smiled softly. But that was none of her business.

“Thank you!” She beamed, “I named myself after I was born. Most of these brutes around here don’t appreciate something like that. They just bark out my name when they need another refill on ale.” She rolled her eyes playfully with a bouncy shrug. “It’s nice to officially meet you Mizuki.”

Terra turned at the familiar heavy step and occasional grunt coming from the direction of the back offices. She bit out her retorts to Jax, who brushed her off as usual. He was lucky this place was the only one on the market that really knew how to draw in the big gamblers, otherwise she would have been gone years ago, and he knew it.
Jax was scratching his beard, the sound sending a crisp, crunching scratch to ride through every last one of Terra’s nerves, when Mizuki spoke up suddenly in regards to the damage done to the bar.

The orc stopped mid scratch. “Broken glass?” He said, eyes wide. His voice boomed in the small space of the bar, bouncing off of the walls menacingly. “What do you mean broken glass? Who the hell’s gonna pay for that, huh?”

Theodore shrank back into the pillar he was leaning on in the face of the orc’s wrath. He couldn’t tell if he was bluffing or not. His eyes shot over to Mizuki, hoping to make contact with her to let her know he was willing to support her if needed.

Terra shot Jax a dirty look. “Oh, lay off, half the guys in here have broken almost everything there is to break in this bar anyways.” She shot a glance towards Mizuki. “Don’t worry about him, he’s just trying to pull your leg. You do not owe him anything.” As the word anything pierced through the air, she shot a dirty look over towards him, the fire in her brown eyes telling him to get off his ass and go clean up some of the damages.

Jax threw his thick, callused hands in the air dismissively before moving around them and stalking off angrily in the direction of the bathrooms. Terra looked up from the first aid kit she was digging through. “Don’t worry he’ll get over it. He just needs to get his tantrum out.”

Theodore sighed in relief once the orc disappeared behind the swinging doors of the bathroom. He didn’t want to admit it, but the tension had been building in his chest since the moment he had stepped into Jax’s office. He seconded what Mizuki said. Although the offer was extremely kind, after everything that just happened how could Terra feel safe letting two random vampires into her apartment? She had to know the temptation of fairy blood to vampires, and there was no way you could trust anyone with something as important as your life after knowing them for such a short period of time. He opened his mouth to reinforce Mizuki’s original stance, but after looking at her soft smile as she offered an alternative to Terra, his decision flipped. He had trusted Mizuki not only with his own life, but with Samantha’s as well, with barely a background to preface his decision. Somehow the trust came--naturally, instinctively. If Terra was feeling the same towards them, who was he to argue?

“It’s up to you, honestly Terra. Whatever you’re comfortable with.”

Terra’s expression hardened. “I’m more than capable of handling my own. I’ve been working in the black market for years, you know. I’ve definitely pissed off people way scarier than the two of you. Besides, after what just happened I don’t think it’s safe to leave you two out on the street alone, a succubus hates losing.” She gave a light hum in approval as she finished dabbing up Mizuki’s wound. “That should do it then! I won’t use any of these dusty bandages, like you said you’ll heal up just fine.”

Terra stood up, dusting off the stained half apron tied around her waist. She pulled at the knotted bow at the small of her back, peeking over through the smoky bar in the direction of the bathrooms. “Jax,” Her voice called, its strong sound carrying skillfully through the bar. “I’m leaving early, Miranda will be here soon to cover for me.”

With a playful wink in the Vampires direction and a whirlwind of blown kisses to the protesting patrons at the bar, Terra led the Vampires out of the hazy space and into the open air of the black market once more. Theodore took in a deep breath, happy to have something other than the mix of stale and fresh smoke swirling around in his brain.

He followed Terra’s short frame as she led them back outwards from the black market, back towards the more touristy sections they had travelled through earlier. He was taken aback by just how much--smaller she seemed in stature compared to both him and even Mizuki. No wonder she put forth such a tough demeanor to be taken seriously, she had no other choice. The inky vein like markings on her skin gave off a dark shimmer in the brightening lights before them.

Terra looked back at them as they began to approach the once again bustling crowd. “So listen, I’m going to fly above you guys and you just follow me through this mess. I’ll get trampled if I try to walk through here.”

Theodore glanced over at Mizuki and gave a shrug, extending his hand out for her to take with a soft smile pulling at his lips. He looked back towards Terra, eyes glittering in excitement as her thin, almost translucent wings peeled from her back and began to buzz quickly. She lifted from the ground and gestured for them to follow.

Theo kept a firm grip on Mizuki’s hand as they walked through the crowd, his hand tightening noticeably each time he felt her get pulled back by someone trying to squeeze their way between them. He had already felt the panic and confusion that spared no time in pouncing over him after he had lost her momentarily. Now that he had her back, had the right Mizuki back, he was scared of losing her again.

Terra waved amiably to the flittering fairies that crossed her path, many of them ones she knew well. The fairies of the black market tended to keep a close knit circle, all of them checking in on one another to ensure that nothing had happened. Even though the other fae were always smiles and kindness when they regarded her, she could still sense a cold, empty vacuum of space between her and the rest of them. She was sure it was because of her relationship with Cecil and her preoccupation At The Dead Salamander. No one wanted to be wrapped up with a sorcerer so well known in the black market, and they certainly didn’t want to be caught by any of the other supers lurking right on the edge of where she worked every night. It was easy enough to ignore, but when Cecil left her for such long periods like this, the vacant cold of her isolation became more noticeable.

Terra tried to clear her head from the deep pull of her thoughts, glancing behind to see if the two Vampires were still following in her wake. She could see Theodore casting back constant glances towards Mizuki, his attention to her well being clear in every action he took. She couldn’t quite understand how the vampire felt about his companion yet, but it seemed like there was a panicked attachment he had formed to the woman. When she had been replaced by the Succubus, his well being seemed to have deteriorated rapidly, leaving him to spin out in a dramatic fumble.

Theodore kept his mind focused on following the fairy above them, his attention unable to focus on any of the other wonders that beckoned from every angle. They were back in the main area of the black market now, the area that Vampire Francis had led them through and laughed at their innocent wonder. Theo wondered where the man had managed to wander off to, or what kind of business he had down here. It still struck him as odd that a council member had risked being caught down here or even rumored to be down here. The other members would be furious if they knew.

The crowd of the black market thinned out with each step they took after Terra, eventually coming down to just a milling of people every now and again. Terra stopped at a small, white stone building sandwiched between others similar in design, its old windows framed by intricate metal balconies. It was--charming and elegant. A hidden surprise in the black market.

She gestured for them to follow through the large double doors that led into the apartment building, its cavernous entryway echoing every small sound they made. Theodore looked over to Mizuki, his eyes wide in amusement. “I didn’t know anything like this existed in the black market. I thought it was all--stalls and tourist traps I guess.”

Terra laughed. “Well where do you expect the people who work here to stay? There’s lots of residential areas around here, you’d be surprised just how many super naturals call this place their home.

She led them up the old wooden steps, filling the hallway with a charming echo of creaks. Once at her door, she turned back to gesture for them to come in behind her. “You guys are more than welcome,”

Theodore followed in behind Mizuki, placing a hand on the small of her back to guide her in front of him. Terra’s apartment was so---comforting. It had an effortless appeal and humbling feeling that he had long forgotten after his many years of living in the elite luxury that the Vieru favored. It reminded him of the shitty apartments his friends would decorate to feel comfortable in college. A pang of what he could only describe as homesickness hit deep in his chest.

Terra was in and out of her bedroom in a flutter of movement, leaving Theodore little to no time to absorb the new surroundings he had been thrust into. She didn’t seem like the type who liked to waste time.

“So,” Terra said as she emerged from her bedroom, hands on her hips. “Who’s ready to go Sorcerer hunting?”

--

The faint pulsing of music wafted in the damp night air as they approached a frankly--average looking building. Theo looked around curiously but there was no sign out front or loitering people to really indicate that it was anything other than just your average building.

He shot a wary glance at Mizuki, hoping to glean how she was feeling about the bar before they made their way up to the door. Terra looked back at them before knocking in a rhythmic pattern. The door yanked open suddenly, revealing a gruff looking bodyguard before them. His formerly intimidating face lit up into a cheerful recognition once he regarded Terra.

“Terra, my favorite little fairy! How are you?” He beamed.

Terra gave him a playful shrug. “Oh you know, as I always am. Slinging drinks and winning what cash I can.”

The bodyguard laughed briefly before bringing a hand up to his chin in thought. “Actually, I think I owe you twenty bucks from the last tab I had at your bar. You want it now?”

Terra bit her lip at the offer, glancing back at the two behind her. The man was standing with a curious look in his eyes, struggling to see what lay behind the hulking man before them. “Actually, you mind if I ask for a favor instead? I need you to let these two in with me.”

The bodyguard looked up at the two vampires behind Terra. Theodore straightened his posture under the man’s heavy scrutiny. He knew Sorcerer’s didn’t have the cleanest reputation with Vampires. They tolerated them, so long as they kept their separate circles. Add to it that they were on the hunt for one of the Sorcerers’ own and--well he wouldn’t blame them if they chased him and Mizuki clear back to the Vieru mansion.

The bodyguard hesitated for a second, but after glancing back at Terra, folded under the pressure. “Fine, but if they ask who let you guys in, tell them it was Brandon.”

Terra winked, giving the man’s arm a light squeeze. “Will do.” She gestured for the two to follow behind her, leading them into a narrow hallway. The walls were covered in an old, intricate looking wallpaper which had yellowed with age. Shelves lined the walls and crammed the space even smaller. A random assortment of--junk--filled the shelves until they were practically overflowing.

Theodore’s breath began to get shorter in his chest as they walked through the narrow hallway. It was an unwelcome flashback to their travel down the long staircase into the black market earlier. His muscles were visibly tense as they neared the wooden door that held back the pulsating music that had leaked outside. He was impatient to get through to the more open space before them.

Terra pushed open the wooden door and peered around the warmly lit bar, lights everywhere illuminating the mingling patrons in a gooey honey glow. Music muffled the many conversations down to an incomprehensible white noise. Her eyes scanned the bar area with intensity as she searched for a familiar figure who she knew would be right where she expected.

Her brow furrowed as she spotted the lean figure in the distance, posted up on the bar with a drink in hand. Without mention to the vampires behind her, her quick temper getting the best of her, Terra stalked up to the figure quickly.

She took the seat beside him, leaning an elbow on the bar in order to face the man point blank. He glanced to the side, a cocky smile floating onto his face as recognition clicked in his mind.

“Well--haven’t seen you around in a while. How’s the Salamander holding up?” the man crooned to Terra in a slow, teasing voice.

“Cut the shit Cas, you know why I’m here.” Terra stated.

Cassius laughed at her comment. He held up his finger towards the bartender, gesturing over in Terra’s direction to bring her a drink. “You can still handle your absinthe can’t you?”

Terra rolled her eyes. “You forget who you’re talking to?”

He laughed slowly, the same sly smirk gliding its way onto his face. He lifted his hands slightly from the glass they were wrapped around. “Wouldn’t expect anything less from Cecil’s girl.”

Terra’s expression soured at his words. “Where is he, Cassius. What did he get into.”

Cassius turned to look back at the two vampires who were still lingering over by the entrance. Theodore was looking around at the eclectic decor surrounding them, a playful smile lighting up his face. It felt like he was on the set of a play.

“You bring those two in with you?” He asked while raising one eyebrow skeptically. “Vampires Terra, really?”

She rolled her eyes, taking the glass set before her by the bartender and gulping down a healthy sip. “It’s been a long fucking night. They came into the Salamander asking for Cecil. It’s why I’m here.”

Cassius’s cocky demeanor cracked momentarily, revealing a quickly masked panic hidden underneath. He cleared his throat before laying his eyes on her with a searing gaze. “Why don’t we invite them over to join us then?” He turned back to the two Vampires and beamed welcomingly, waving his hand over to gesture them to join.

 

[Razvi-sama]

Mizuki Chiba | Alfred Smith
Mood: Tired, interested, amused | Mood: Playful, amused
Location: Black Market - The Dead Salamander - Terra's Apartment - The Sorcerer's Bar​

Mizuki was utterly entranced by the woman who sat before her. Her gaze held a glimmer of admiration and were glassy with wonder. Her laughter was sweet and her cheeks were wonderfully rosy, and best of all? She had caused such an innocent reaction out of the fairy. She found her funny. It only seemed to influence the vampire's smile as she laughed along with Terra, her cheeks coloring at the fae's wink, "I'll take some notes on how to embellish a good story, then. It'll be an epic tale of woe and love", she chortled along with Terra, thankful for the distraction.

Though, what she appreciated most...was the validation from Terra. As the fairy assured her that she had every right to feel as panicked and as confused as she did. A succubus was unpredictable and what happened was a vicious domino effect that ended up with her stuffed into a bathroom stall and Theodore stumbling back from the panic of being...well, assaulted. A light frown dusted her lips at the thought, hoping she could find a moment to ask Theodore if he was okay. There was always safety in numbers, and for now all Mizuki could do was trust in Terra's reassurance.

Terra admitted that even she was wary of the succubus and it seemed to amuse Mizuki more than anything, seeing how tough Terra acted in front of these large creatures. She seemed fearless, fierce. So, to hear that she, along with the rough and tough patrons in the bar, were wary of such a creature...she didn't know if she should feel relieved or scared. But, the fairy did bring up an excellent point and sudden realization bloomed within the vampire. Terra was a product of her environment. These were every day, normal occurrences for her. She was tough, because she had to act tough...if not, the Black Market would chew her up and spit her out, especially considering her stature and petiteness, "...right, well...I'm glad you were able to make it work for yourself, and you seem to have quite the following", she smiled, peeking around the bar. She was sure Terra could handle herself perfectly fine, but something told her that these patrons weren't going to allow their favorite little bartender to be pushed around. The mention of gambling seemed to throw Mizuki off, though...as she eyed the fairy with a glow of curiosity. Was it rude to ask? Did...did she like to gamble? She smiled, finding this fairy more and more enchanting by the minute. She had layers to her, layers that the Council and her Clans swore up and down didn't exist. That fairies were one-dimensional, sweet little creatures...easy to take advantage of. No, not Terra. Terra...Terra was interesting and Mizuki was a little saddened that they would only get to enjoy her colorful personality for one evening...or so she thought.

Mizuki gasped, "You named yourself?", she asked, eyes bright. Wait! Now that she thought about it...she knew nothing of fairy reproduction, how they were born. So, she was confused by the statement, but utterly fascinated no less! Mizuki laughed, amused by her comment, "Truly, almost sounds like a hate crime", she giggled in a soft tease, leaning forward with bright admiration for the woman, "Well, no worries, I think vampires can understand the importance of a name, especially a name you so carefully picked for yourself. It's your identity, it's who you are...Terra...sounds Latin. For Earth, right?", she smiled, "Stable, structured...strong. Yes, it suits you well, dear", she hummed, "...nice to officially meet you, Terra", she echoed back with a soft sweetness to her voice, feeling much more at ease than she had originally.

Though, it seemed the bubble they had shrouded themselves in had popped the moment a third party joined them with heavy footsteps and gurgled grunts. Mizuki tilted her had back to regard the large orc that came their way, shrinking in his presence. He kept scratching his beard and Mizuki gathered the courage to speak up, to inform him of the damage and she was going to offer to pay for it only to be suddenly cut off. He seemed angry—Again, her sensitive hearing and his loud booming voice didn't help with her headache. She closed her eyes tightly and tilted her head to the side as if that was going to relieve her pain. She took a small breath before she faced the orc once more, gaze flicking to the side to regard Theodore who looked to her with soft reassurance that only seemed to push her forward, "I-I could pay for it, no worries, I just wanted to—", thankfully, Terra was there...and clearly she had Jax wrapped around her little finger. She glowered at the orc and hissed at him to back off, which allowed Mizuki to deflate in her seat with relief. She looked to the fairy with puckered brows, worry still etched in her expression, not knowing what else she could say...she could still pay for the damage, it really wasn't that big of a deal. She didn't want to cause further problems with Terra, but Jax seemed to instantly melt at her chastising and stalked off. Angrily...but he backed down no less.

"I-I see...", Mizuki nervously watched the orc stomp away, letting out a small breath. For now, her eyes fell down to what Terra was doing, sorting through the first aid kit as she reassured them that Jax wasn't someone they should worry about. The conversation did shift to her assuring them that they would leave soon, but first they needed to stop by her apartment. She needed to change and Mizuki...was frankly concerned about the woman's general comfort. Did she really want a couple of vampires following her back to her home? Alone? She was starting to see that Terra didn't take them seriously as vampires, which was fine! It was good that Terra didn't find them threatening, it relieved Mizuki...but she hoped she wasn't this trusting with other...vampires. Some were actual bloodthirsty fiends who had no regard to someone else's well-being. Vampires were selfish parasites a lot of the time, and Mizuki didn't want Terra to ever fall victim to their charms. Vampires were just as deceitful as a succubus.

But, Theodore was right, it was up to Terra and Mizuki was positive that neither she or Theodore would make a move to harm the fairy. "Scarier than the two of us?", Mizuki giggled, her smile laced with amusement. Yes, it was clear Terra never had a negative encounter with another vampire and that only seemed to relieve Mizuki. She wanted the fairy to trust them, so she wasn't about to shroud the fairy's perception of them in insisting that they were every bit the predator many humans claimed them to be. Plus, Terra made an excellent point. A succubus hates losing, and there were power in numbers. It best if they be careful.

Mizuki sat still as Terra disinfected her wound, nodding to the fairy in reassurance. Yes, she was going to be perfectly fine, she didn't need bandages. Just the fact that her wound was clean was enough, as the wound would close on its own in a bit. The vampire stood once Terra did, careful to not make any sudden movements. Her headache was slowly residing, but her body still ached from the cramped position. She looked down to herself, and decided that she wanted nothing more than a hot shower and a change of clothes. She just needed to push forward a little more.

As Terra called out to Jax, Mizuki gathered her bag and slid it over her shoulder, peeking up to catch Terra's wink and the kisses blown to the other patrons who called out after her with cheery, grunted 'goodbyes'. Mizuki smiled, finding the scene sweet as she followed after the fairy. Eager to leave. She did pause to look back to Theodore, ensuring he was following the moment they stepped out and she took in a breath of the sweet air around them. She couldn't stand the smell of cigarettes and smoke.

Mizuki was happy to stretch out her legs, happy to finally leave and return back to the crowded population towards the center of the Black Market where it was brimming with life. She also felt more confident having a fairy guide them forward, someone who knew their way around the Market. Though, now that they were alone, walking down the many alleyways that twisted and turned into a messy maze towards where they originally came from...Mizuki noted how tiny Terra actually was. There was no counter between them, they weren't at eye-level sitting down over some crooked seats. She was following behind the fairy, looking over the top of her head, and could easily imagine she was at least a head taller than Terra was. She perked right up the moment Terra regarded them, warning them that she was going to need to fly above the crowds, lest she get stepped on.

Mizuki nodded dumbly, her eyes falling to the black, inky like traces that shimmer with an iridescent glow under the warm flickering lights. She was going to have the honor to see a fairy's wings up close...close enough to touch...She would never disrespect Terra in such a manner, but she had to admit she was excited.

However...what slid her out of her excitement momentarily...was the movement she caught from the corner of her gaze. Mizuki turned to regard Theodore with a smile who offered her a shrug, and then...his hand. Oh. The vampire took a small breath as she gingerly rested her hand in his own, slowly growing used to these little advances of his. She was natural sheepish, but utterly grateful for his consideration. He simply didn't want to lose her within the crowds. No words were needed, but the small action meant a lot more than even she realized.

Mizuki turned her attention back to Terra...watching in complete awe as her wings manifested behind her, peeling themselves from her very skin and fluttering rapidly to lift her up into the air, "...wow...", she whispered out softly, nearly breathless as her eyes widened to drink in every bit of Terra's image. How magical. Her wings were beautifully tipped with an enchanting blue and shimmered underneath the crystalized lights hanging above them. She realized they resembled closely dragonfly wings, which only added to her wonder...she didn't know wings could come in different shapes and sizes.

For now, Mizuki and Theodore followed Terra through the crowds. She noticed how firm Theodore's grip was on her hand, almost as if he wanted to truly make sure he didn't lose her. Her smile became reassuring and warm as she eagerly stepped forward, and made sure to keep up with his pace. Her grip was equally strong and present, though even she had to admit she might have stumbled a little bit. It seemed the volume in crowds had doubled since they were last there, and occasionally her shoulders would bump with someone else's. Most of them yelled at her and she responded with a low hiss and baring her fangs. She wasn't in the mood to be pushed around, at this moment. Though, she did notice Theodore's delicate squeeze. A soft reassurance, a strong insistence that he was going to make sure she didn't go anywhere. Yes...she wasn't going anywhere. Mizuki returned the small squeeze to his hand before they continued to forward.

Mizuki kept her attention over Terra, not wanting to lose her through the crowds especially as there were other fairies fluttering above. It would be most unfortunate if they got confused and started following the wrong fairy. There was relief at knowing that their wings were shaped and colored differently, though, because the blue-tipped wings were absolutely unmistakable. So, while Theodore's attention occasionally drifted back towards her, Mizuki was focused solely on Terra...occasionally her eyes did wander...a certain smell or something glittery quickly snatching her focus. Which was probably what led to moments where she was found being dragged back by others in the crowds. She's mumble out a bashful apology to Theodore before quickly catching up to his side.

Once the crowds began to thin, Mizuki allowed herself to grow distracted once more, simply moving to wherever Theodore tugged her along towards to. She trusted him to lead the way. She was known as being a little ditzy and spacey sometimes, which is what a lot of vampires struggled with when it came to her. They didn't know how to approach her and would quickly grow frustrated with how easily distracted she was. Theodore didn't seem to care, though, so when she lost focused she relied all of her trust in him being able to guide her while she lost focus. Disassociate a little, if you will. It's what helped her unwind, after all, and after today...well. She needed a small breather.

Though, Mizuki soon noticed they came to a stop and she looked up to find Terra pause before a small, white building that seemed to look like it was shoved into a hole in the wall...it was utterly precious! The vampire immediately smiled and eagerly followed after Terra and Theodore, matching Theodore's amusement and wonder. Terra explained that the workers of the Black Market each were given a place to reside in. In exchange for their labor and keeping their customers happy, they were given a place to stay, plus their salary. That was actually very fair, considering Mizuki had heard rumors of the Black Market...shifting from time to time around the world. Just to gather a diverse clientele, so to say.

Mizuki nodded along to the conversation, following up the creaky, wooden steps...to Terra's apartment. She wondered what it was like to live within the Black Market? What other perks were the residents privy to? Was it freeing...? Traveling with the Black Market to meet all sorts of supernaturals and creatures? She wondered...if she would enjoy such a life. A life of adventures and travels. A life away from the hierarchy and the snobbish attitudes.

Once Terra opened the door to her apartment, Mizuki thanked her for the welcome and stepped inside to find...such a charming home and the decor was filled with creamy, pastel greens and an abundance of plants, "Terra, your home is beautiful", she complimented with a soft gasp, "Thank you for letting us in, excuse us", she hummed sweetly, feeling Theodore's hand slip from hers...only for it to soon rest over the small of her back to guide her forward. It felt...natural. She did her best to hide the small smile on her lips as they both stepped inside together, drinking in every last detail within Terra's home. It felt warm and inviting, and Mizuki was finally able to let out the breath she had been holding all day. She felt oddly safe within the space, finally able to let down her guard. She felt a wave of exhaustion fall over her, in that moment...realizing just how drained and tired she was.

So, before they left, Mizuki asked Terra if she could use the fairy's bathroom, trusting there would be no succubus there. While the fairy was in her bedroom, Mizuki excused herself with Theodore and stepped to the bathroom, closing it behind her to let out a heavy breath. She washed her hands and brushed her fingers through her hair, doing her best to look as put together as she did before the attack...basically, she was taking a moment to properly recollect herself...and once she did?

Mizuki stepped out of the bathroom looking a little more refreshed, though the light bags under her eyes were still unmistakable.

As Mizuki stepped in front of Theodore, it was the first time in a handful of hours that she was able to properly take him in...noting his own weariness and...She smiled lightly for him, stepping closer as she pulled out a handkerchief she had wet a little with Terra's bathroom sink. A handkerchief that held a bit of her perfume, "...hold still", she hummed softly to him, rising up to her tiptoes to delicately rub the damp handkerchief against his cheek where he had been kissed...hands traveling up to his hair to gently tuck behind his unruly curls and brush his hair back with her fingers carding through his locks, "...can't have you smelling like that succubus, hm?", she offered, taking a step away, "...there, much better", she offered.

"...I'm really sorry you had to go through that, I don't know what exactly happened, but...it must have been confusing...Just know that I would never take advantage of your trust like that or disrespect you in such a way...", Mizuki offered kindly, her hand rubbing the back of her neck sheepishly before she turned her attention to Terra who looked absolutely gorgeous. Oh, she loved her dress!

Mizuki smiled, "Ready".

~​

As they arrived to the dark building before them, Mizuki frowned to see they had been brought to another bar with faint music that only seemed to pulsate through the air. Vibrating against their very bones.

Though, aside from the music...Mizuki couldn't really play off as to what was really before them. It seemed like your average, rundown building shrouded within the shadows. She swallowed back thickly, feeling just as wary as before. Her brows were puckered together and she simply prayed it was a more welcoming environment than The Dead Salamander's.

Mizuki peeked up to Theodore and tried to offer him a more optimistic look, but when she failed at doing that...all she could do was shrug. For now, they followed and trusted Terra as they walked up to the door, thinking they were just going to simply strut inside. Terra gave out a rhythmic little knock and Mizuki watching the fairy curiously, turning her attention to the door to see it suddenly and rapidly being ripped open to reveal...a rather large man. Mizuki took a step closer towards Theodore as she eyed the bodyguard who seemed...thankfully...very happy to see Terra.

They had a cute little back and forth and every moment Mizuki spent with the fairy, she was thankful they had found her when they did. She seemed to have a nice reputation with the community around her, which would give them the perk of being able to interact with many creatures that surrounded this mystery they were trying to uncover.

Though, when the topic of the vampires was addressed, Mizuki tensed behind Terra and bobbed her head in a silent greet to the bodyguard. To show him they were harmless and weren't interested in any trouble. Sorcerers and vampires had a long and dark history. Actually, many supernaturals were wary of Sorcerers due to their past in being hunters known for creating trinkets and potions that could harm and capture their kind. Silver laced gloves, collars that shocked when the victim expressed any form of negative emotion...to name a few. One of the few things werewolves and vampire had in common was the wariness each creature had towards a Sorcerer. Witches and mages on the other hand? Vampires always had an amicable relationship with them, though were in a life-long feud with other Sorcerers.

As much as the bodyguard hesitated, though, Mizuki let out a soft breath when he agreed to let them in, bowing her head to the man, "Thank you", she offered him kindly, before she quickly followed in after Terra, ensuring Theodore was right beside her.

Once they stepped in, though, Mizuki found they had to walk down an elongated and cramped hallway. She took a moment to take in her surroundings, seeing how vastly different the interior was from The Dead Salamander's, enjoying the wallpaper and the interesting little knicks-and-knacks that aligned the shelves...only to pause...when her sensitive hearing picked up a shallow, shaky breath beside her.

Oh.

Mizuki suddenly remembered their travels down into the Black Market, remembering how uncomfortable Theodore seemed within the tight space. This was no exception. He looked tense and a hint of panic laid underneath his skin, and naturally...Mizuki extended her hand forward to brush her knuckles against his own in a silent ask to hold his hand, before she laced their fingers together in a show of solidarity. He wasn't alone and everything would be okay...

They finally stepped through the other side of the door and she smiled up to the vampire, visibly taking a deep breath...and slowly letting it out in hopes that he would follow after her example in a few breathing exercises before finally continuing on forward. And, what laid before them...was a space bathed in a warm, yellow glow...once more, a stark contrast from the crimson light and poured over The Dead Salamander's interior. It was a little easier on the eyes, she had to admit...and the general aesthetic seemed to inspire her.

Mizuki always carried with her a disposable camera in times of emergency, and she...was itching to take a few pictures. Out of respect for Terra and Theodore, she didn't...but maybe she could sneak a couple of pictures before they left.

Mizuki noticed that Terra had found something—or someone of interest, because the fairy made a b-line for a figure sitting by the bar. Oh? She stayed put, not knowing if it was appropriate to follow after the fairy. She tried to distract herself with her general surroundings, the thing she was best at doing...but this time she was solely focused on Terra and her...friend? She warily looked about them, not entirely enjoying the fact that they were now surrounded by many Sorcerers...the smell of silver lingered in the air and it nauseated Mizuki. She swallowed back thickly, wondering if they should have followed after Terra—oh?

Mizuki's eyes widened as her sensitive hearing caught Terra's sudden hostility, looking to the stranger in surprise who simply...smiled down at her. What? Who was this? This couldn't be Cecil, right—?

Nope, not Cecil. Some man named...Cas? Terra was speaking to him so firmly, and he simply brushed her off! Now, there was talk of absinthe and Mizuki stood there awkwardly. Who was this? What was happening—?

Cecil's girl? Okay, there was...there was a lot to take in and now Mizuki was utterly burning with questions. Naturally, she stayed put and drank in the underlying drama, but Terra, unapologetically, asked this "Cas" point-blank where Cecil was and Mizuki was utterly dumbfounded. Cassius? Okay, that made more sense as a name.

When Cassius finally looked towards them, Mizuki quickly averted her gaze and looked to her general surroundings, not wanting Terra nor this Cassius to think they were rude by eavesdropping...not that they could help it. His tone, though...when the word "vampires" slipped out of his lips as if they were a pair of dirty rags...it seemed to once again only influence her growing bitterness. Look, she didn't want to be here anymore than he wanted them here. Terra didn't seem very impressed by his tone, either, so at least there was that...right?

Terra was drinking and Mizuki sighed heavily, her body now itching to simply leave. She looked a little defeated, unaware of the man's panic though did look up in time to hear him use the words "invite them over" and his hand waiving gesturing towards them. Okay.

Mizuki straightened her back and offered Theodore's hand one last squeeze of reassurance and strength, before she slid her hand away and walked towards Terra and her companion. She made sure Theodore was right beside her the whole way, pausing before this...Cassius. She looked at him, unimpressed, "Good evening. Sorry to suddenly barge in...some Brandon let us in", she bowed her head out of respect, remembering the bodyguard's instructions though looked to Terra in hopes the fairy would introduce them...but it seemed that a few Sorcerers had always caught onto Cassius' use of the word vampire and were now looking towards them with an underlying hint of nervousness. At least the orcs and goblins weren't afraid. They were indifferent, and Mizuki would take indifference over fear any day...because fear made you act irrationally and there was silver somewhere in this bar. Mizuki looked to Theodore to garner his reaction, even more wary to leave his side than at any point in their little adventure. Her hand instinctively had drifted to the hem of his shirt.

"Hey!", a new voice called Mizuki out and she turned towards the bar's bartender who looked to them with a beaming smile, with a hint of anxiety lining his body language when he looked to the...vampires.

"Terra! It's been a while! Just because Cecil hasn't been around doesn't mean you can suddenly abandon little ol' me!", the bartender insisted, as he was a Sorcerer that went by the name Alfred. Alfred Smith. "You're the only other bartender in this whole other Market I can stand", he teased as he turned towards the two vampires, as well as his two "regulars", "What can I get y'all started with?", he grinned, a light southern drawl painting his words, "Sorry, we don't really get many vampires down here, don't really know what you would like to drink...Bloody Mary's?", he hummed, earning a snort to his side from another bartender working that night who only seemed to nudge Alfred.

"You're an idiot", they laughed as they walked passed him, earning a bit of laughter from Alfred at his own amusement.

"Sorry, I couldn't help a good pun", Alfred smiled, his...try at a joke making Mizuki feel more at ease. She smiled to the man and shook her head, "No, just a raw, bloody steak in a martini glass if you can", she jested back, smirking to the bartender who simply shook his head with a chortle.

Alfred snickered, "Dirty? Shaken or stirred?".

"Shaken, hold the olives", Mizuki giggled.

"Awesome! Yeah, I'll have to check in the back to see if we still have some left. I can even see if we have a whole-ass cow for you", Alfred laughed, sighing contentedly, "No, seriously, sweetie~. What would you like?".

"Just water for me, thank you", Mizuki responded kindly.

 

[Pepsionne]

Theodore | Terra | Cassius​

Terra couldn’t help but giggle slightly to see the vampires awe as her wings unfolded. She was used to people gawking, fairies had a reputation for being nice to look at. Many of the fairies that worked down here were models, show girls or--more adult themed entertainers. Their small stature and cherubic features made the profession easy. But these vampires--their awe at her wings seemed so...innocent. So childlike. As if this was the first time either of them had seen a fairy in their lives.

As she took off through the air, she couldn’t help but think about how sheltered the vampires had become over the years. The black market used to be booming with vampires from all over, eager to brawl and get up to whatever their kind usually liked to get up to. She knew a couple of Abarra members who frequented the market, not like breaking the status quo was unusual for them, but for the most part, many of the clans remained above ground. Barring the outliers, she hadn’t seen a vampire down here in years. Not since the council began cracking down on the clan’s activities in an attempt to kiss up to the angels’ asses. What did they think the angels were going to do? Give them a little taste of their power?

Once inside her apartment, Terra felt a wave of calm wash over her. It felt good to be back in her space after the long shift she had had tonight. Her eyes fell over to her coffee table, where an old book and several crystals were spread out across it. Cecil was always leaving things of his around her apartment, his attention span dragging him out midway through an experiment or spell. She’d developed a habit of not touching any of the items after he had left them out. Too many emergency purifications and counter spellcasting to undo whatever enchantment he had left sitting out in the open. Terra sighed lightly, letting the emptiness of his absence linger in her chest before she scrubbed it out, pushing a smile onto her face instead. She turned to tell the two vampires that she’d be right back, when Mizuki had asked to use the bathroom.

“Of course,” Terra smiled, pointing out to a door cracked open slightly. “It’s just right over there.” She gave a light wave before walking into her bedroom to change out of her bar clothes, their fabric woven in with the smell of ale.

Theodore’s eyes wandered aimlessly once Mizuki left to leave the bathroom. It was the first time since he left Mizuki’s apartment that he was able to let his mind--go blank. He walked in a tight circle around the living room, fingers tracing over the soft leaves of the plants scattered around the room.

His eyes lifted up to see Mizuki approach him having left the bathroom, her gaze brighter and more lucid than when she had left him a minute ago. He smiled in greeting.

Mizuki peered at him for several seconds after she had returned. Her eyes traced along his hair, across his features. What was she thinking? Theodore reached up and awkwardly scratched his head as she stared.

“I--is there something on my face?” He chuckled, confusion making his chest tight.

He kept still as Mizuki reached up to dab at his face with a handkerchief. The smell of perfume, more specifically the same perfume he had sensed in her apartment, washed over him. Theodore’s cheeks flushed ever so slightly at her touch.

He offered her a cheesy smile. “Much better indeed, but--you don’t have to be sorry.” As Theodore’s eyes searched across her face, the memory of the harsh words the succubus bit at him resurfaced. He knew it wasn’t Mizuki who had said them, but seeing her face, same as it was now, look at him with such anger and disgust, it hit him hard. Theodore rubbed the back of his neck, shrugging the line of thought off. “Let’s try and forget about it, okay?” He flashed a smile before his attention was stolen away by Terra, who announced that she was ready to start looking for Cecil.

Terra’s eyes scoured the outside of the Sorcerer bar, her gaze dipping into even the darkest of corners. Her chest was filled with the soft hope that Cecil would be somewhere lurking around in some shady deal with a supernatural, but the street was barren.

The familiar pulse of the bar’s music surrounded her senses. If anyone was going to be here, it would be Cas. Terra’s stomach turned over at the thought of wrangling out any information from him. Not only was Cassius Cecil’s closest, if not only, friend, they had also been bound together since their first year at the academy. It was an old ritual the sorcerer guild had developed back when they were still hunting supernaturals. They relied on shared strength to defeat the opponents they faced, and an enchanted blood oath did just the trick in amplifying magic. They still practiced the ritual in modern times, but it wasn’t as common as it had been in the past. It didn’t surprise her that Cecil would commit himself for life to someone else so long as it guaranteed a lifelong power boost.

She had already run into this brick wall the previous times Cecil had left her hanging for several weeks. She’d be surprised if she could get a word out of him. As much as she told herself this, and tried to believe it, the sight of Cassius’ figure at the bar made her blood boil. She could play this game had Cecil been gone a week, a month, but it had been months, plural, and she hadn’t heard a single word from him. Something wasn’t right.

Theodore stood by the entrance into the large bar, his breathing just coming back down to its normal rhythm having been thrown out of whack from the trip through the suffocating hallway they had just emerged from. The feeling of Mizuki’s hand interlacing with his own in a silent reassurance had eased his nerves slightly. He glanced down at her as she titled her face towards him and let out a deep breath. Theodore followed her example and filled his lungs deeply, letting out a smooth, cascading breath several seconds after. He could feel the anxiety pour out of his system from the action.

Terra had left them to stalk over to a figure at the bar. The man was sitting forward with one elbow propped up on the counter. Dark inky tattoos covered his olive skin, climbing up his arm and wrapping around his neck. He had a haughty demeanor as he regarded Terra.

Theo decided not to pay much mind to their conversation, his attention instead being stolen by the grand aura the bar gave off. From the outside, he expected the place to be a small cramped bar full of smoke and drenched in layers of spilled liquor but this place--was magical. Apparently Sorcerer’s liked to drink in style. It almost rivaled the luxury of Vieru.

His attention was thrust back to the moment before him as Mizuki offered his hand one last squeeze before moving over in Terra’s direction. He could still feel the ghost warmth of her touch linger as he moved to follow after her.

Cassius looked up towards the approaching vampires. He took a sip of his drink as Mizuki gave her greetings, his eye smoothly flitting to the side at Terra as the vampire spoke. He offered a broad, charismatic smile. “Why that’s no problem. We welcome everyone here. All walks of life,” Cassius said, his voice hitting an emphasis on the word life.

Theodore’s brow furrowed as he regarded the man, studying him to glean a proper response. “Care if we join you for a drink?" He asked the man, maneuvering to the side to take the empty stool beside him. He propped one of his elbows on the bar. Theodore looked over towards the man, his expression visibly different than it had been before. His eyes were glazed with a sense of indifference, his features slack as if this was the last place in the world he wanted to be.

Cassisus looked over towards Theodore and shrugged, “Be my guest.” His gaze shifted to Mizuki, who was still standing where she had been.

Terra looked over towards the sudden voice behind her. She opened her mouth to respond in confusion, but the recognition of Alfred before her suddenly ignited her features into a bubbly glow instead.

“A relationship is a two way street you know,” She mockingly pouted. “I don’t remember seeing you coming by to visit my bar in the past--oh months? Years?” She teased.

Cassisus sighed, taking a long sip of his drink once Alfred began chatting up the vampires. “Well, while you’re back there squashing tomatoes or whatever the fuck you’re talking about, why don’t you get me and little Terra over here another round,” he said, gesturing between the two of their empty glasses.

Theodore looked over towards the bartender who was sharing banter with Mizuki. It was nice to see at least one Sorcerer in here who didn’t regard them with a thin veneer of either hatred or fear. He could smell the metallicy twinge of silver floating through the air. He was sure Mizuki had sensed it too, as her features seemed stiffened since walking through the entrance.

“I’ll take a gin and tonic if you don’t mind,” Theodore smiled towards the bartender. “Ah--but you can hold the cow. Maybe box it to go.”

Terra patted the seat beside her, gesturing silently for Mizuki to join her. She eyed Cassius as Alfred turned to go prepare the drinks they had ordered. She interlaced her fingers together, tilting her head to the side as she regarded Cassius once more. “So, my vampire companions have joined us. Now are you going to give me a little insight into what Cecil’s up to?”

Cassisus turned towards her, his eyes narrowed slyly. “Look, Terra, we’ve been through this before. If Cecil wanted to be found you’d have already found him. He’ll reach out when he’s ready.”

Theodore looked past Cassius to peer at Terra. Her expression was struggling to maintain polite.

Cassius sat back crossing his arms over his chest. The skin was covered in tattoos, some purely decorative while some looked to be the products of permanent enchantments or protections. “How do you two know Cecil anyways?” He asked the vampires, genuine curiosity lining his previously arrogant expression.

Theodore opened his mouth to respond, but was cut off as Terra rushed in quickly, “Cecil promised them a stealth spell,” She said. “You know how strict the vampiric council can be.”

Cassius shrugged. “I stay out of vampire affairs.”

“Well Cecil sure doesn’t,” Theodore said boldly. Cassisus turned to look at him, his dark eyes scouring his face in an attempt to glean a portion of what the vampire may know.

"Yeah--I'm sure he does. Cecil gets himself wrapped up into shit he really shouldn't be sometimes. He doesn't listen to anybody when he wants to do something either," He said, glancing towards Terra. "You know how he is."

Terra narrowed her gaze at Cassius. "And pray tell--what did he get himself wrapped up in this time that he shouldn't have?" She raised an eyebrow at him, hoping the pressure would make him crack eventually. If Cas was really worried, which she was sure he was, he would give in if they prodded enough.

Cassisus looked at Terra and with a sly smile shrugged, "Your guess is as good as mine Ter-bear."

 

[Razvi-sama]

Mizuki Chiba
Mood: Worried, tired, annoyed
Location: Black Market - The Sorcerer's Bar​

They seemed to have shared a moment. It was small, quiet, and private as Mizuki stepped closer and delicately removed the succubus' putrid scent from Theodore's cheek. He smiled down to her, his gaze lingering...Though, as Mizuki was leaning away, apologizing for what Theodore had gone through...he seemed to brush her away. Wanting to do everything in his power to possibly forget the traumatizing experience with the she-devil. But, what had shaken Mizuki's core, causing a pit of anxiety to stir in her chest even after they walked out of Terra's apartment...was the way he looked at down at her when she pulled away. His stiff mannerisms—his hesitation towards her. How he practically shrugged her off. He seemed more awkward by her approach than anything else which caused her to take a step back, smile politely for the vampire to assure him she would drop the topic at hand, before she looked away entirely. Clutching on tightly to her handkerchief before she stuffed it away entirely. A wall had been built between them, a wall that wasn't there before they entered The Dead Salamander. It caused a faint sense of dread to run through her, even though she did her best to push the thoughts away.

For now, she came to the conclusion that she would give the man his space, wondering if she had come on a little too strong, considering what he had just gone through. Really, she didn't blame him, yet why did it cause her chest to tighten with brief disappointment?

These were the thoughts that swirled and consumed Mizuki's mind as they strolled through the Market to the Sorcerer's Bar and Association. Occasionally, she would sneak a glance towards Theodore, take in his image and hoped—wished—there was something else that she could do for him. Yet, all she managed to do was make him uncomfortable. She frowned and lowered her eyes to her feet as they walked.

They bypassed security that's to Terra's connections within the Black Market, and Mizuki was fully aware that they would not have gotten this far if it wasn't for the people they met along the way. She wanted to properly repay Terra and silently wondered what they could do to thank the fairy for her assistance. When she had looked up to the fairy, though...she noted that the woman seemed as if she was looking for something...or someone.

Mizuki's grew kind and sympathetic, but just as quickly as Terra tore her gaze away...so did the vampire as she focused on actually bypassing their first obstacle. Their second? The Sorcerers themselves. The silver that tainted the air. She stared up to the looming, shadowy and unforgettable building and slipped inside to follow after Terra. They were met with a cramped and lengthy hallways, decorated heavily with posters, frames, and fading wallpaper on either side. Mizuki was a little enchanted by the booming décor, though...noted her partner's breath seemed to grow a little shallow. A little shaky, and was quickly reminded of their quickly little journey down into the Black Market.

The music that throbbed and drummed all around them was probably not helping his nerves and general discomfort and she wondered if this was her chance to show Theodore that she truly wasn't a threat...So. She hesitantly reached her hand forward and brushed their knuckles together in silent ask if she could hold his hand. A reminder that he was not alone. And, once he gave her permission, she laced their fingers together and looked up to him silently...breathing in and out evenly and calmly. When she saw him following her example, Mizuki offered him a more genuine smile and nodded for him, as if saying: "Very good. You're not alone".

It wasn't long before they were met with their third obstacle, and obstacle Terra abandoned them for and left them to fend for themselves by the entrance, standing awkwardly amongst all the other Sorcerers who simply looked to them appraisingly and warily. For the fourth time today, she repeated to herself how much she hated the attention. She give them the satisfaction to see her actually bothered and discomforted within her own skin. Instead, she focused on the conversation Terra shared with this Cassius...giving the man and slow one-up as she drank in his image. A cocky little playboy, is what he seemed to be. With his grins and charms, looking to Terra as if he didn't take her seriously. Mizuki narrowed her gaze.

When he finally acknowledged their presence though, that was when Mizuki decided to look away and take in her surroundings, certainly enjoying the ambience here a lot more than she did in The Dead Salamander's. Sorry Terra. However, what she didn't love...were the patrons and the smell of silver. Her instincts screamed at her to run away, but she kept put as she turned back towards the Sorcerer who waved them over.

To not overstep anymore boundaries, Mizuki offered Theodore's hand one last squeeze...before she pulled away entirely and walked off to meet Terra and her friend by the bar. She politely greeted herself and apologized in case he was offended by their presence...soon to find his charismatic smile held no emotion behind it and that only seemed to feed the bitterness that only grew as the night continued on. She didn't enjoy his emphasis on the word "life". Actually, she didn't enjoy his whole attitude, nor the way he spoke to Terra. Cecil's girl. Sure, she may have known Terra for only a handful of hours, but she was already more than just that. What an insult.

But...Mizuki kept her composure and offered the Sorcerer a sweet little smile. Vampire's were naturally charismatic, as well...no? "My, how wonderful that your community has grown to be a lot more open minded compared to your predecessors. Huge improvement", she giggled, acting like the air-head everyone thought her to be. Emphasis on the "open". She peeked back to Theodore and saw he was already growing comfortable over the bar, asking Cassius if they could join the man and Terra for a drink. Only...the man that shifted beside her wasn't the same man who offered her cheesy smiles and extended a hand towards her to ensure he didn't lose her in a crowd. This was a more polished Theodore, one she had seen many times within their multiple meetings between their Clans. Ah. Mizuki kept to herself as she was suddenly met with a new voice, peeking back towards Terra to find the man recognized her! A friend, and he seemed kind!

Alfred snorted, "You know damn well I am not going to that side of the Black Market. I'm a total coward", he grinned, "The fact that you can tussle with some pretty rough people is impressive, though. Which is why...you're my favorite", he offered her a playful wink before he turned towards Cassius who asked for a refill on his drinks, "Excuse you. It's more than just squashing tomatoes. It's an art, and I don't think I heard a "please" out of you, mister", he huffed, "You're lucky we're friends, if not I would have spat in your drink", he hissed with a playful gleam before he turned back towards the vampires to offer them his horrid pun and banter with the female vampire. It was light and effortless, and he even mustered a bit of a laugh from her!

Mizuki giggled and smiled, happy to be treated as a person, happy to be seen as more than just some...undead creature who deserved a silver stake through her heart. She asked for a water, not wanting to ingest any more alcohol for the evening. She was tired and if she had a sip of anything else, she would fall asleep right beside Theodore.

"Oh! A classy man, nice—!", Alfred soon snorted and laughed at the vampire's tease, nodding to him, "Of course, of course, I'll prepare a doggy bag for you to go. Two separate containers so you two can share", he chuckled, his tone highly amused before he walked off to complete their orders.

Mizuki smiled and looked to Theodore as he joined their little banter, laughing airily at his tease. He had a sweet sense of humor, didn't he? Her affectionate gaze lingered over Theodore before she turned to Terra and noticed the fairy gesture towards her to sit down next to her. She thanked her and sat down, only to tense when Terra went straight to the point, which caused Cassius to look to her, to them with a narrowed and wary gaze. She didn't like what she heard from Cassius, peeking back towards Theodore and wondering if they had hit some sort of dead end...

Mizuki's gaze flicked down towards Cassius' tattooed sleeve that ran up and down his arms, her eyes tracing the intricate figures only to perk up when he finally addressed them. Ah! So, he did see them! They weren't just decoration, look at that! Though, his question did make her pause...not entirely knowing how she would respond to begin with and was thankful that Theodore was quick on his feet in these kind of situations. A stealth spell, and the mention of the Council was genius. But, it was Theodore's bold comment that followed after Cassius' whip-like response that caused her to grow rigid...She shifted her eyes towards Theodore, as if warning him to not say too much. If word got back to the Council, somehow...To Maximus, a man she directly lived with...

Mizuki peeked back towards Cecil, noting his hardened stare and that wasn't a look of someone who didn't know anything. At the moment, he wasn't budging and if he wanted to keep toying with them...then Mizuki could toy with him, too—.

"Two absinthes, one gin and tonic, and one water—I actually got you a lemon san pellegrino, but no sugar. It's just as refreshing and it should perk you right up", Alfred smiled to the vampire, as the woman looked rather tired and could use a small pick me up.

"That actually sounds great, thank you", Mizuki said softly, earning a wink from Alfred before the bartender sauntered off to tend to other patrons. The vampire took one small sip before she turned towards Cassius who still refused to give them any information on their only lead, "You know", she began, "...I have a unique Gift...to be able to smell whenever another being is lying", she stated. A huge lie. She actually didn't talk about her Gift, but it was common knowledge that vampires were supernaturally...Gifted. It was one special ability that separated them from the rest, a Gift no one knew if it came from the forgotten Royals or the Gods themselves. Now. Vampires actually could somewhat tell when another living creature was feeling nervous or emotional. The spike in their blood flow, how loudly their heart would pound against their chest cavity...they noticed it all. But, it wasn't as precise as being able to "smell a lie". That was ridiculous, but he didn't know any better, now did he?

"And, to see that you are lying to a supposed friend", Mizuki gestured to Terra, "Is heartbreaking. She's clearly worried about her companion and we really need to fulfill our duty to the Council. We're not asking for trouble, we just...really need to know where he is. Anything you can give us, any information that could be useful to us will be much appreciated. Hell, I'll buy you a bottle of absinthe as a bribe if I have to, but we're not here to play your games and continue this goose chase we have found ourselves in", she also hated the patronizing voice he used to regard Terra, but that wasn't her business, "So...again...where is Cecil? And, again, I can tell if you're lying", she stated with a soft hum to her tone, eyeing the man just as sharply as he had looked to Theodore.

 

[Pepsionne]

Theodore | Terra | Cassius
Location: The Sorcerer Bar​

A sour look crossed Cassius’ face when Mizuki returned his snide comment with one of her own. Everyone knew that the strength of the Sorcerer guild had fallen as the world modernized. Not everyone had the patience to believe in fairy tales.

He held up his hands when Alfred chastised him before shooting the bartender a playful wink. “You know I like to pull your leg,” He offered him a cocky smile.

Cassius settled his eyes on Terra beside him. He couldn’t understand why she was pushing him so hard about this. How many times had she come to him looking for Cecil, only to leave empty handed? He had thought that she knew by now to just wait until Cecil showed up once again. It wasn’t really his style to tell anyone where he was going and what he was doing. As much as Cassius wanted to kill him for the predicaments he was constantly thrust into, he’d protect Cecil’s choices. No matter how--stupid.

He took a large sip of the absinthe Alfred brought back, hoping to ease some of the agitation in his chest. Cassius didn’t want to admit it, but he shared some of the worry that thickly lined Terra’s impatience. He hadn’t heard from Cecil since--well since that night. It wasn’t normal for him to keep away this long. The growing feeling that something was wrong began to worsen each day that passed without word. They had gotten into a spat that night about the decisions Cecil was making. Cassius had thought the fight was keeping Cecil away, turning in a dramatic spiral of his own selfishness, but he wouldn’t be dealing with Terra’s concern if that was the case.

Cassius clenched his jaw as the fairy continued to apply her steady, even pressure about what Cecil had gotten into. His eyes shifted to the vampire woman beside her as she began to speak. He listened to her explain her gift, a feature about vampires he had learned back in his academy days. When she finished her daunting tale, Cassius snorted in laughter.

He rested his arm on the table, pointing to a small symbol worked into the sprawling design of inky tattoos trailing up his arm. “Manipulation resistance. Emotional, mental,” He moved his hand in a rolling motion, “and so on and so forth.” Cassius took another sip of his drink.

“Learned to get that inked early on in the black market business. Keeps the supers honest.” He flashed a smile towards Terra, who rolled her eyes. “So whatever you think you’re getting from me, your aim is probably a little off. Maybe you’re catching a lie from old Jason down there trying to impress a girl.” He turned his eyes towards Terra again, his expression falling flat, stoic. “Like I said, I don’t know where Cecil is.”

He sighed and rubbed the back of his neck, the aggravation growing on him. To hear the vampire girl mention the Vampiric Council--it worried him. Forbidden spells were forbidden for a reason, especially the kind Cecil had stolen from The Archives. The spell wouldn't be so easily forgiven by the Guild or the Angels. And where the angels were, the council made sure to follow close behind.

“What the hell did you do, Cecil?” He thought to himself.

Theodore watched Mizuki as she worked with Terra to whittle down the barrier the Sorcerer was enforcing around the topic of Cecil’s whereabouts. He let out a soft huff in disappointment as Cassius countered Mizuki’s threats of lie detection. Sorcerer’s had a way of being shifty with supernaturals.

He took a sip of the cool, clear drink before him. The glass had begun to bead droplets of water, dropping down in a smooth river to pool in the absorbent coaster the drink rested on. “Alright,” Theodore said, interjecting before Terra or Mizuki could get in another steely remark. “You don’t know where Cecil is, we get it. Besides, we can just get the stealth spell from you, right?”

Cassius sighed heavily, picking up his drink and knocking back the rest of the absinthe. He swallowed the cold liquid down, feeling the burn as it traveled down his throat. “I don’t owe you anything. Cecil and I may be bonded but that does not mean I pick up his slack. Find him another day, he’ll pop out around here soon.”

Terra took an angry sip of her absinthe. Of all nights for Cassius to be an asshole, did it really have to be tonight? She knew him well enough to sense the little quirks of worry showing through his apathetic demeanor. His leg was twitching ever so slightly, fingers taut in their movement. He was worried.

Her eyes drifted up towards Cassius once more, a gleam of mischief in them. “You know what I remember Cecil telling me once?” She laughed as if she was telling an old, amusing tale. “He told me that when you two bonded, the sorcerer’s at the academy were surprised at the connection your bond garnered. A once in a century bond between two powerful sorcerers,” She moved her hand through the air dramatically, “You two can sense each other's emotions, intentions, presence--Like some kind of main characters in those YA novels everyone reads nowadays.”

Cassisus rolled his eyes, reaching into his back pocket to pull out his wallet to pay. His time at the bar seemed to be ending quickly. “And? What’s your point?”

Terra rested her elbow on the bar counter, leaning her head into her palm and smiling at him sweetly. “And, my point is Cas, you stopped sensing Cecil’s presence haven’t you? That’s why you’re so nervous right now. You’re worried about him.”

Cassius stopped mid movement, his gaze falling on Terra sharply. Shit. He clenched his jaw, dropping his arm down to his side before leaning back into the bar stool. He didn’t know she knew about that. Fucking Cecil.

He let out a long, deep sigh, glancing out of the side of his eye at the two vampires who sat with eager expressions. He was silent for a long stretch, his gaze hardened as he stared at the empty glass before him. “The last time I saw Cecil was...” He paused, scratching the back of his head in frustration. “...was the night we broke into The Archives.” Cassius finally spit out, leaning back in defeat. His expression dropped its previous arrogance leaving him to look simply--tired.

“The Archives?” Theodore asked.

“Yeah it’s where the Guild keeps all their old documents, spells, enchantments. The originals, not the copies they keep out in the academy,” He elaborated.

Terra’s expression had hardened as Cassius finally began opening up. His worry made her sick to think about. If even Cas was worried about Cecil then--No. She wouldn’t go there, she wouldn’t think about it.

“They also keep the forbidden stuff there,” Terra clarified. “The banned spells and enchantments from old times that violate the contract formed with supernaturals to keep the peace. There’s--dangerous stuff in there,” She sighed.

Theodore’s stomach began to turn cold. Forbidden spells? Violate the contract? To think this was part of Maximus’ plan. Powerful weapons to be used against supernaturals--he didn’t want to think about it.

Cassius nodded at Terra’s addition. “Right, the forbidden stuff. I’m sure you already know what it is that Cecil was after. I didn’t--not until I had already helped him break in.” He rubbed his palms over his face, like he was trying to wake himself up from a bad dream. “He didn’t listen, not that that’s so surprising. I told him he was going deep this time, that he might not come back. He just promised me that he what he was doing.” He shook his head in disbelief. “It pissed me off, frankly. I just left him there, hoped he had the sense to drop out before it was too late. Guess that was a fucking mistake.”

Theodore looked over at Mizuki, the look in his face painted with concern. Had she also reached the same foreboding thought he had? “Can we see the spell?” He turned his attention towards Cassius.

He huffed in laughter. “The exact spell? No. Cecil took it with him that night. But I can show you the section he took it from. If I read the spells it was surrounded by I could probably give you a rough guess on just what it was that he took.” He eyed the three of them before he spoke again. “But I’m not doing what I did that night again. Not risking that shit again. That job--” He smiled deviously. “Would fall on the three of you.”

 

[Razvi-sama]

​

Francis Boisseau | Mizuki Chiba | Alfred Smith

Location: Black Market - The Sorcerer's Bar​

Once she made sure Alfred was out of earshot, Mizuki turned to regard Cassius and informed him of a Gift. It was a lie she made up on the spot, a lie she hoped would push him over the edge in giving up any and all information he could provide them. Maybe he would feel guilty for withholding information from a friend, because while Mizuki didn't have such a ridiculous Gift, she could tell he was nervous and frustrated. The scent of his sweat mixed with the frenzy thumping and rapid flow of his blood under his skin gave it away that they was more to this story than he was letting on.

Mizuki swallowed thickly, trying not to pay too much attention on the man's...b-blood.

Mizuki shook the thought away, her mind wandering to the pouch of blood in her bag. It would be unsightly to sink her fangs into it, wouldn't it? For now, she took another sip of her drink and turned to Cassius, wondering if he would give in—. Mizuki frowned when he practically laughed in her face, snorting out inelegantly and causing her to blush crimson. Utterly embarrassed. There was absolutely no way he would be able to tell if she was fibbing—No, he was just cocky. He showed off his arm, pointing to an inky little symbol etched into his skin with caused the vampire's shoulders to slump.

To think Sorcerer's had come up with some sort of alchemic incantation to keep their Gifts from melodically sinking into their subconscious and taking over them. Some of their Gifts were more...physical than others. Most were mental, though few had the rare specialty of accessing a part of their mind where they could perform physical wonders. Like, Charlotte, who had her All-Seeing-Eye. Gods only knew she was straining herself and would one day grow blind from usage, but for now...she did what she would to serve Maximus to her full potential.

Then, there was hers...where she could strain herself to physically manipulate...Mizuki sighed, looking more defeated than anything else as she looked down to Cassius' arm with unconscious disdain and annoyance. Her eyes flicked up towards him to regard him cooly, clearly not liked to be made a fool by him. It was clear by the way he looked to her and Theodore, the tone he used with him, how he felt about them...and that only seemed to further grow Mizuki's general frustration. Every step forward they took it seemed like there was a wall suddenly wedge in front of them, this whole journey felt as if they had been pulling teeth! And, it was only the first night and they were nowhere close in solving this mystery, because she didn't think either of them expected for this to become so intricate and messy. Sticky. There was layer upon layer of...shit, and a great woman might lose her life soon if they didn't act faster.

Which was why Mizuki was growing angry. She didn't give a fuck about their superficial bromance, someone's life was on the line. His cocky grins and his careless attitude boiled Mizuki's insides as she sat there to steam. She said nothing in response to the markings over his arms. If this was any other time, if Samantha was rotting away in a cell somewhere, Mizuki would have been open to learn more about the man's hard work. Exchange thoughts and ideas with a being from a completely different culture and society. But, right now...Mizuki was left to look away entirely, hiding her pupils that had thinned into slits and her claws into her palms.

"...whatever...", Mizuki practically bit out in a low tone. Kept the supers honest? She wanted to hurl. Who did he think he was?

Once more, Cassius insisted that he had no idea where Cecil was and Mizuki was about ready to give up and tell Theodore they should look elsewhere. This was going nowhere, they were wasting time, and she was starting to feel a little more agitated than she liked. What she didn't understand...was why wasn't Theodore pressing this man further? She eyed the man from the corner of her slitted gaze, wondering what was going on in that head of his? Was he as deadly as a viper? Staying silent and watching your pray with a certain apprehension until they found the perfect moment to strike? She couldn't be the only one growing upset, could she?

He spoke up, though, which perked her right up. She kept her eyes on him, though, hiding all of her vampiric features from Terra and Cassius, not wanting to cause an uproar within a tavern filled with beings who would not hesitate to strike them down with silver if need be. But, no Theodore, though...Theodore pressed Cassius on the stealth spell and she cocked her head to the side curiously...wondering what he thought he would gain from pressing such a matter. It'd be pretty funny if they did get a stealth spell out of Cassius. What would they even do with it...?

Mizuki's mind wandered through possibilities, the small distraction thankfully...relaxing her. Though, when she shook herself out of her thoughts, she found herself picking at the worn out, dirty bandages over her fingers. Bandages she had forgotten to bring with her so that she could replace them, but she refused to take them off to begin with. She peeled her hands away from her and let out a soft breath, ready to move on, ready to leave...until she heard Cassius use the words, "I don't owe you anything".

A low, feral growl escaped the back of Mizuki's throat as she now flicked her eyes back to Cassius' with a heated stare, "Do not talk to him that way", she hissed lowly, tired of his piss poor attitude towards them. He needed an attitude adjustment, and she would have no problem fixing it for him. What an asshole! G-Gods, if she didn't step away right now, she was going to absolutely lose it—.

It was Terra's sweet voice, though...that seemed to lull Mizuki in that small moment. Her focus was solely on the fairy, and there...in the woman's gaze was a glint of mischief that Mizuki recognized and now wondered what she had planned. And, there she was...explaining to them all, and repeating back to Cassius, that a bond between two Sorcerers was so strong...that they could sense one another. It was almost...poetic. The vampire's eyes warmed, almost entranced by this little anecdote that Terra was now sharing with them and wondered if...a vampire could ever become a part of something that seemed so beautiful.

Mizuki couldn't help but smile tiredly at Terra's little joke about Young Adult novels, silently...silently thanking the woman for making such a tense situation a little more breathable. Again, it really was a shame that Mizuki was only going to enjoy her for one evening. Maybe...maybe once everything calmed she could sneak her way back into the Black Market and join the fairy for a drink. Would she like that? Would she mind?

It was Terra's twist, though, that caused both Cassius and Mizuki to pause and regard Terra. Cassius seemed panicked, and Mizuki...Mizuki looked heartbroken. Wait, what did that mean, though? She shifted her attention back to Cassius with a softer, more sympathetic gaze...almost as if asking...is it true? Was that why his blood circulation had been off the moment he saw Terra? Did she remind him of what had been potentially lost? What did that mean for Terra, though? Was she...okay? Terra's expression was nearly unreadable, but as the conversation continued its to and fro...Terra's expression only seemed to harden and Mizuki had a desire to...

Mizuki rose a hand and delicately squeezed the fairy's arm as if to provide some sort of ounce of comfort. The same comfort she had offered back at The Dead Salamander's.

As they continued this back and forth, Mizuki looked between the two individuals, drinking in as much information as she could. There was mention of The Archives and appreciated Theodore for asking for clarification, because this was the first she had heard of it, as well. Yet, it was Cassius' change in attitude that surprised Mizuki the most, and somehow...somehow she knew he was being sincerer. His defeat was clear, and overall...he looked utterly exhausted. As if he had been twisting and turning for many endless nights wondering what had happened to his friend. It seemed...maybe two people's lives were on the line, not just Samantha's. There was clearly something more to the story, clearly so many people's lives were involved and...

Right in the center of it all...was Maximus. Mizuki seemed to grow sick with the thought, her wary and fearful gaze finding Theodore's as the two seemed to have come to the same conclusion. It was then that Mizuki remembered two things.

One, Charlotte having asked...no—demanded that she return home at once, as they needed to speak to her.

Two...the note in her sketchbook. Ah, so you have chosen death. Were they somehow correlated events?

Did Maximus know and did he wish...to have her disappear...? Like Samantha? Like Cecil, maybe? Mizuki rose a hand up to her lips, looking as if she was about to be sick. Forbidden stuff. Banned spells and enchantments. The word "dangerous" had been thrown out and Mizuki was starting to wonder if they were way in over their head. They...they were just two vampires and they hardly were able to find their way through the Market if it wasn't for Terra's assistance. What...gods, what were they doing?

...she was scared.

Mizuki let out a shaky breath, swallowed a tight ball that seemed to have knitted itself against her throat. She looked visibly upset, looking so small. But...no one would gain anything if she fell apart right then and there...especially not Theodore who had put so much faith in her already. She didn't want to let him down. She didn't want him to feel...as alone as she had felt so many times.

The vampire returned her attention back up to Cassius as he went over the last time he saw Cecil...they had an argument, he left the man behind because he had grown too upset and separated himself from the situation before it grew out of hand. It was clear that he...he regretted that. It wasn't his fault, Mizuki wanted to reassure. Cecil was responsible over his own decisions and choices, even if he did stay...that didn't mean there could have been a different outcome. But, since she wasn't really close to the man and frankly was still quite wary of him...she kept to herself and simply shared a small glance toward Theodore before returning her gaze back over Cassius.

Theodore asked for the spell, but of course life wasn't that easy. The gods clearly found some sort of sick pleasure in watching them run around. However, Cassius seemed to suddenly be in a giving mood, because he offered to show them the section Cecil had taken the spell from. But, of course...he was still the same asshole from earlier, so he wasn't going to make the job easy for them. Another wall. Would this be their final obstacle? Mizuki let out a puff of laughter and shook her head, incredulous. Really, though...she understood why he wouldn't return with them, and really she didn't expect for him to risk anything for their sake...

"...very well", Mizuki's tone was soft, her fingers tracing over the rim on her glass, "And, how do we get to this famous Archive—?".

"Woah. Cassius", Alfred had suddenly appeared before them which caused Mizuki to grow rigid, looking tot he man from the corner of her eye. Did she ruin this? Was Samantha's blood on her hands now? The bartender had only come to pick up Cassius' empty glass, when he couldn't help but overhear a few murmurings in regards to The Archive, and to hear one of the vampires asking for directions...

Alfred's brows puckered together in concern, but oddly enough...he didn't look upset. Just curious. "What are you telling them? You know outsiders can't know the location of The Archive—".

A loud bang was heard to the far left where a black door was skillfully tucked away in some lone corner. Not many seemed to pay attention to the man that sped out of the door, but Mizuki did...because she recognized that man. He was drenched in what smelled and looked like wine, as if someone had accidentally dropped some of the liquor on him...or threw it at his face. Seeing how he was padding his handkerchief against his cheeks and neck...Mizuki was starting to think it was the more violent option. It was Francis, but what was he doing here?

Francis sauntered over to the other side of the bar and lightly patted the counter to call the bartender's attention. Alfred perked up to find his partner was already attending other customers and the Sorcerer grumbled under his breath. He pointed to Cassius and the rest of them, "You all? Don't move or I'm calling security. I'm not calling security now, because you're all very cute and imagining Terra in handcuffs breaks my heart. Cassius, you know not to test me", he huffed, before he turned around to tend to his new customer.

When Alfred walked away, Mizuki turned to Terra and Theodore, letting out a soft hiccup and looked as if she was about to cry as her eyes welled up with tears, "I-I'm so sorry, I didn't mean to say it out loud with him next to u-us", she insisted, let in a gasped breath.