Archive of Our Own ^beta

Chapter Text

He couldn't control himself any longer. He would feel her. He would taste her. He would consume her. She would be his, she would flow in his veins, and if anyone got in his way, they would be killed.

‐—--------

“Corrin, dear?”

Corrin jolted from her reverie as her mother's voice grabbed her attention.

“Daydreaming again?”

Corrin looked up, puzzled. She sat on the wooden swing chair outside their shared cabin, overlooking their crops. The scent of rain still lingered in the air after a small drizzle, still never enough rain though, it seemed. Had she decided to take a break? How long had she been sitting here? “Apologies, Mother. I can't seem to remember what I was thinking about,” she noticed her heart seemed to be steadying and her breath slowing. “Whatever it was, doesn't seem like it was very nice.”

“I'm glad you've decided to take a break. You've been working hard.”

Corrin watched as her mother sat beside her. Her dark hair, in stark contrast to her own, tied up, her clothes holed and dirtied after all of the day's field-work. Corrin sighed as her mother grabbed her hand with her own,” Not hard enough it seems.”

Her mother's expression stiffened as they looked out,”Nothing we can do about the rain. The year's been tough to us, but we'll make it through. We always do.”

“Mother…,” Corrin thought over her words as she squeezed her mother's hand lightly. Her mother had clearly been skipping meals, making any excuse she could to give her daughter more to eat, to give the village children more, to give everyone but herself more, to treat any wounded or ill who asked for help. She ultimately gave her mother a soft smile, “Of course. We're tough.”

“I know there's no guarantee, but I thought maybe you could take a stroll through town,  maybe try and trade these tubers for some grains. I've got some deliveries to make, maybe we meet back for dinner?” 

Corrin nodded lightly,”Sounds good, I'll go get my bag.”

They left together, walking casually. The walk to the village never took them too long, the timing to get there being only around twenty-five minutes if they walked slowly. A short walk to the main path leading to the hill down to the treeline. Once past the treeline, they could see the village clearly and only had a short way left to go to make it to the first houses that outlined the area.

When they finally made it Corrin turned as her mother grabbed her hand and tugged lightly on it, “I love you. Be safe.”

“You too, Mother.”

~

As Corrin walked through the village center, she found a spot to sit on a nearby bench out of the way of the main walk-ways. One of the farmer's had managed to find an extra bread loaf. Definitely not worth her sad sack of undergrown produce, but probably a small gift due to the season change, and a return for her mother's generosity. 

She looked out at the candlelit streets, admiring the calming glow of the lights on this mid-afternoon. This time of year her village took on the constant overcasted dim sky that perpetuated the nearby kingdom to their west. Many here missed the spring and summer daylight that abounded from their eastern kingdom neighbors, but she found something relaxing in the darkness.

A relaxation she was thankful for as she found herself lost in thought, for a moment not worrying about her hunger.

And then her stomach growled.

Right, she was here to get food, and while she was hungry, she knew her mother had been going without. The drought this year had been rough on everyone, and her mother couldn't sit around and watch so many of the village folk go hungry. Corrin knew though, that even with her mother's help and hard work, that the village just wouldn't have enough for everybody this year. The early fall had already arrived, and with it she knew the crops just wouldn't be able to yield the needed harvest. 

Her thoughts returned to the gravity surrounding her, and she decided to make one last pass through the village. If she could make it home in time, maybe she could surprise her mother with an already cooked dinner.

As she walked back through the stalls she heard her name cried out,”Corrin! Corrin! Wait up!” She turned to see one of the nearby farmer's boy, Silas. They had played together when they were children, but as they'd grown, so too did their responsibilities to their respective families. She smiled gently as he hurriedly made his way over to her. 

He stopped to catch his breath a moment before rustling his hair back and beaming at her,” Haven't talked in awhile! I noticed you walked by and couldn’t pass up a chance to say hey.”

“Ah, my apologies. Mother has needed my help with the fields. Not much rest to be had lately.”

He nodded lightly in agreement, “Y-yeah… Oh! Here!” He reached into the bag he had slung across his chest and pulled out a rugged candle. He held it out to her and Corrin noticed small amounts of color beginning to stain his cheeks,”I-I know how much you love fall and the candle lighting festival for fall is in two weeks. Never know when I might run into you again, so I uh, I made this candle for you. Thought maybe you could have one to light this year. Or you could light it with your mother at home if you don’t want to come-”

Corrin took the candle and smiled softly, “Thanks, Silas. You really didn't have to-”

“But I did. We all see how hard you work. Just-,” he paused as he thought over his words. He took a deep breath as he looked down at her,” Just try and take a break to relax sometime okay? We're all worried about you. I'm…”

“Yeah,” she carefully put the candle into her own bag and looked back up to him. “Thank you, Silas. I'll be sure to light it.”

“I hope purple is okay.”

She rolled her eyes playfully at him,” Hm, now I don't know. I might have to give it back!”

He laughed softly,”Thought you'd be more willing to take it if it were your favorite color. Anyway, I'll see ya around. Ma needs me at the stall.”

“It was nice seeing you. I’ll…try to see you at the festival.”

His face lit up at that,” Definitely!” And with that he turned to return back to his stall.

Figuring she was out of luck for the night on trading her crops she decided to set off for home. Perhaps she could relax a moment if she made it home before her mother.

She was nearly out of town when someone bumped into her, nearly knocking her over. She stumbled back between two of the houses, catching herself. She looked up frantically to see a man walking away, his whole body covered, even his face. As he turned back she could only make out fragments of white hair that stuck out from under his hood. She wanted to say something but something about him left her unable to give any harsh words.

She watched as he quickly bounded around a corner before shaking her head and dusting off the back of her dress. It wasn’t often that strangers came to town, at least not as much anymore with the clans fighting, but the disputes hadn’t made it this far yet. Readjusting her bag, she set back off for home.

“...and the attack wasn't much but it destroyed my whole field.”

Corrin stopped before turning a corner, having overheard some people talking. She debated continuing on her way, she knew it wasn't her business…

She found herself against the wall, listening around the corner.

The voice she'd heard spoke again,”My whole field. I just can't believe it. My neighbor’s, too. We just don't know what to do.”

“Do you think we'll have any volunteers this year?”

“What does that matter? It seems the fightings are getting closer and closer. Them vamps ain't worried about us low folk. Even if they were, I'm sure they'd done think we taste like piss from around here. No wonder they ain't worried ‘bout protectin’ this area.”

“Who knows. I wouldn't blame no one for not wantin’ to go die for this sad sack of a place.”

“Probably be a quicker death than whatever awaits here. Who knows, maybe they'd like one of ours and give the rest of us some food.”

“This village seems to be cursed, I tell ya! No rain for crops and now this!”

Corrin had heard enough and decided to head home. 

Attacks? Near here? Close enough to affect other harvests as well. That definitely wouldn't be good for the upcoming winter. With at least two more fields gone, the people here were all but certain to slowly perish over the winter's run. She'd need to alert her mother, but surely she would already have known.

Corrin arrived home before her mother and decided she would take a bath before trying to make dinner. She had managed to get some bread, so at least they'd have something a bit more substantial than usual. ‘Better than having nothing ,’ she thought. 

After multiple rounds of boiling water for her bath, she finally got in the tub and sank down, stopping before her nose touched the water, and sighed. She knew bringing up what she'd heard today would only serve to put more weight on her mother's shoulders. She wiped her face with her hands, running water through her hair as she slicked it back out of her face and sat up a bit, bringing her knees up. She looked at her hands as she rested them on her legs, thinking more about what she'd heard, her eyes began to drift downward, noticing her veins that ran like rivers down her arms. 

No. She remembered the villagers talking about the volunteers. I shouldn't. Humans who volunteer freely, submitting themselves to one of the vampire clans. No one ever really sure of what happened after a volunteer is accepted. Whisked away to whichever clan leaders they'd given themselves to, perhaps going to be treated like meat, perhaps to be kept as pets, or perhaps to simply be drained, to be killed, as if humans meant nothing. It's a terrible fate. I…  

But in exchange, volunteering could result in families fed, villages protected. With the two main clans currently warring and food being scarce, the clans seemed to be taking in more volunteers. To serve as shields in their armies? To feed their soldiers? The humans were always kept out of their affairs, only accepted volunteers gaining insight into the dark world that loomed above their heads. 

Despite that, the vampires tried to keep some civility. Only, presumably, feeding on those who offered themselves. Random attacks were virtually non-existent, and localized entirely to areas near the clan battles or nearby clan settlements. Or they were, before they stopped getting news from travelers.

Corrin continued to look over her body, her bruises, her scars, her veins. ‘ They'd…think we taste like piss’ she remembered one of the villagers saying. Maybe some vampire would find her worthwhile enough to at least send some food to her village. Enough to get her mother by, enough to get the children by. How good would her blood have to be? Surely just her life would be enough to exchange for another year's chance for her people here. 

She couldn’t let go of the unease she felt ever since the rumors about the vampires getting closer had started to circulate and now they seemed confirmed. The thought of volunteering, of giving herself to one of the clans, had crossed her mind more than once before, but what would become of her mother if she did?

Mother would never… That's right. There's no way her mother would allow her to volunteer. While the prospect of possible protection and food was an alluring thought, the idea of being some sadists's personal meal, was not. Volunteers were usually desperate, some were simply out of options. Could it really be a choice freely made when people feared for theirs and others deaths? Was it truly consensual? Would they take the same path if they weren't hungry, weren't scared? 

Corrin heard the low patter of light rainfall that pulled her from her thoughts. What was she thinking, really? Even if she had truly wanted to volunteer, she couldn't just leave her mother, couldn't just leave their home. But with the news that the clans’ fights were getting closer to their secluded village, who knew how long they'd have before their small village would be forced to choose a side or be forcibly controlled. Their village never was on either clans' radar, so why would the clans be inching closer now? 

Corrin got out of the bath and dried off, putting on her only sleep clothes and headed to the kitchen. She chopped up some of their produce and threw it into a stew pan on the fire. Using just a small bit of the bread, she put some of it in as well as some other ingredients she could find to add some sustenance. After letting it cook awhile, she cut up the rest of the bread and set everything out on the table. 

She went over to one of the front windows and looked out. It was odd that her mother hadn't made it home yet. Even when she took on extra deliveries, she'd always be home by now. She did see that the rain had picked up since the light sprinkle she had noticed earlier. Perhaps her mother was caught up due to it, thinking it would pass soon.

She waited a bit longer before wondering if she should go back to town to check on her mother. It had been dark far too long by now, and while her mother would probably get upset at her if she went out in the dark, something didn’t feel right. If she left now, she could still potentially run into her mother on the pathway back to their cabin. 

She grimaced as she turned from the window, changing into a simple dress, slinging her bag over her shoulder, and putting on her hooded tunic. She grabbed their lantern, lighting the flame and stopping as she glanced on the table by the door, noting the small dagger that laid there sheathed. One her mother had bought for her to keep on her when home alone. They never worried for people much, but animals could be a threat. As well as any potential nomadic vampires. She wasn’t sure if it even had any silver in it to be useful, but her mother had received some extravagant gifts in the past, so maybe?  She thought for a moment before grabbing it and tucking it into her bag, taking a deep breath as she closed the door behind her as she left. They didn’t live too far from town, but she still did not enjoy taking this walk alone, even during the day. Something about walking alone through crop fields and trees always unsettled her.

The rain had lightened up again, but she still tried to keep a brisk pace, though cautious about any slippery stones that might be laying in wait. The sound of the rain and the creak of her lantern filled her thoughts and she looked around as she walked in case she might spot her mother. Before she could make it to the only turn in the path through the treeline that led straight to town, she needed to make it down the nearby hill. While it wasn’t too steep she stopped at the top, trying to make out what she could. She could tell water was naturally running down along the path and tentatively took her first step down, cautiously looking over the mud and wet stones that lined the way. She held her breath and she made a few more steps, seemingly doing alright when she heard rustling in the crops beside her. Gasping with a start, she lost her balance and fell, rolling down much of the hill and scraping a lot of her skin. 

As she stopped she laid in whatever mud she had landed in, groaning in pain as she tried to lift herself up. She felt burning along her arm and noticed her lantern had shattered completely on one side right next to where she landed, as if the sharp stones hadn’t hurt her enough. She shivered in pain as she sat up, taking deep breaths as she tried to look at her wounds. Both arms had scratches from the stones with a few pebbles embedded into her skin, and her left arm sported small shards of glass. Her legs weren’t in much better shape, though luckily, no glass, and her left side had a small cut through her dress, exposing a slight slash on her side. 

She had her eyes closed as she looked up before she remembered why she had fallen. She jumped up, grabbing the remains of her lantern, the flame somehow still aglow, feeling a small cut in her hand as she stood and swung it around her. She looked around frantically, trying to will what light she had to where she wanted to see. As she began to back away toward the tree line, she heard a scream and turned, seeing the outline of the village being lit up by various fires.

Chapter Text

Her eyes agape, Corrin started doing whatever she could to hurry toward the town, checking behind her as she tried running. With every step, a sharp breath leaving her lips. She reached into her bag with her right hand and, while she had struggled, finally managed to pull out her dagger, unsheathing it. When she got close enough to the town, she could see more of the commotion.The village was under attack, but why? People were screaming, buildings were on fire, and she could see dark clad figures attacking some of the villagers. She quickly hid before one of the figures could notice her, waiting as they passed. 

She looked at the figure as it passed her. A man covered in dark clothing, much like the one she had run into earlier, though this one had their face covering removed, blood surrounded his mouth and dripped down his chin. ‘ Vampires.’ But why were they attacking the village? ‘ Mother!’

Corrin tried to see what she could but knew she would have to move. Her mother had mentioned deliveries, which had seemed to mostly be on the opposite side of town. ‘ Of course.’

She checked around to make sure there was no one around and quietly left her hiding spot. She figured she'd have better luck taking a back way and rushed behind a nearby building. Normally she would have two options but with smoke filling one of the pathways, her choice was limited. She creeped into the backway the fires hadn't reached yet and tried to see down the path as much as she could for any hiding spots or… attackers.

She left her lantern, the flaming buildings providing enough light, tore a piece of her tunic to wrap around her face, and kept her grip on her dagger firm. As she made her way through the backways, she did what she could to look into and around buildings she passed. When she came upon where the main center of town was, she had to hold back her sick. Ordinarily, she had seen all manner of injury and illness as her mother worked to heal people, but the death and horror that filled the square shook her to the core. Her legs began to tremble, her throat tight as she tried to pull her vision away from the bodies of those she had known since she was born. She knew without the adrenaline, her legs, and mind, would buckle under the madness. 

She felt her hand with the dagger shaking as she forced herself to look through the bodies she could see for her mother, but did not see her. She did not allow herself a sigh of relief when she did not see her mother's body. It felt selfish, wrong, when so many she knew were laying in piles, discarded from their killers.

She felt a hand on her shoulder and swung her arm around, only for it to be grabbed. Looking behind herself she saw Silas, his eyes lit up by firelight, sweat across his brow, and with his finger over his mouth as a warning to be quiet. Corrin felt herself let out a deep breath, and wanted to break down, but she knew she'd have to live through this to do so. 

He leaned closer, trying to speak as quietly as he could,”Your mother is just this way. She tried to round up as many of the children as she could and was taking them to the old apothecary building outside town. I told her I'd do another pass through and meet her there.”

Corrin nodded and followed Silas as he led her between the houses. He had his father's old short sword and was wearing an old handkerchief around his nose and mouth, the embroidered daisies along the hem she knew his mother had made gave away the owner. Corrin stayed close. She looked around them before daring to speak,” What happened?”

Silas stopped and checked around before replying,”I don't know. It all started shortly after we had spoken. One minute everyone was starting to wind down for the night and then the next there was a loud scream. A bunch of us ran over to see what was going on when we found a woman being… well… He was drinking her, every last drop. Then they just kept coming, more and more screams. People started rushing to their homes, but they were just being set on fire, lured out like mice. I….My ma…”

As Silas looked down, he noticed Corrin’s injuries,”Are you alright, Corrin?”

“I will be if we live through this. Could anyone tell which clan this is?” 

Silas shook his head,”No. There was a rumor someone had seen the Dusk seal, but no confirmation. No outward symbols, no flags. This seems to just be a random attack.” 

Seeming to mutually agree to keep moving, they began back on their trek, avoiding as many fires and dark figures as they could. It seemed like most of the commotion was starting to quiet, the screams slowly beginning to come to an end. 

The crackle of the fires was deafening, the thick smoke blinding, the metallic scent stomach-turning.

Sticking closely to what shadows they could find, slowly they made their way through the back streets when they came upon a space too big to cross with any expectation of stealth. Peaking out they both started back, worried they may have been noticed. Corrin covered her mouth with her cut hand and closed her eyes as she took a deep breath, resting her head on Silas’ shoulder. He swallowed hard as he reached one of his arms back, holding onto Corrin. 

Slowly moving his head around the edge of the wall, Silas realized they hadn’t been spotted by the three vampires they had nearly walked out for, their attention too focused on the poor souls they had chosen for meals. Silas shifted back, placing the back of his head against the wall, unsure of how to get by, trying to decide if there could be another way around when a deafeningly loud thud came from their direction. Likely just a beam falling, no longer supporting the weight of falling debris from the fires.

Yet Corrin could hear as the vampires dropped their prey, the sound as the bodies hit the stone sending a shock through her own body, her muscles tense. The thuds of footsteps inching closer were only matched by the thump of her heartbeat, each beat, each step, an explosion in her ears. Corrin kept her mouth covered as she looked at Silas, both with their backs against the wall. She noticed him tighten his grip on his sword, ready to fight, and while she too tightened her grip on her dagger, she knew they would be overwhelmed. She closed her eyes and held her breath, certain they would be found.

With tauntingly dragged out words, she could hear one of them speak,” Anybody back there? You can come on out, we won’t bite.”

Corrin could feel a tear threatening to fall. Was she really going to die like this? Not knowing if her mother was safe, not knowing if the children were safe? A cut up, bloody mess that probably couldn’t put up much of a fight?

“Hey! You lot! Party’s over! TIme to head out!” Corrin heard a voice yell from the opposite direction. She dared a glance to Silas, his gaze glued to the edge, still readying himself to fight. She could hear one of them hiss before their footsteps seemed to dissipate. 

The two of them waited for what had felt like an eternity before daring to peek out again. Silas looked around to see what he could, “While it could be a trap, I think they’re gone. We may be better off chancing it, rather than staying here and risk being spotted.”

Corrin agreed and they crossed the opening as quickly and quietly as they could manage. Once across, she let out a deep breath, knowing that the path leading up to the old building was right ahead. They made their way outside of the village, finally escaping the hellish labyrinth.

When they entered the thicket, Silas put his hand up towards her as he looked ahead,” I don't see anyone, but we need to make it up through this old hidden pathway. Keep your eyes peeled.” 

Corrin nodded and followed behind, careful to watch her step in the brush. The way had clearly been walked on very recently and she prayed it was only from the footfall of the children and her mother.  She knew the way to the old building well as she and Silas had played there often as children, her mother often finding them there making flower crowns and looking through old tomes left behind. Memories far too distant from her current reality.

She knew they were getting closer to their destination. She didn't hear much, when suddenly-

Snap

They both turned immediately to the sound, Silas pushing Corrin back onto the ground, into some sharp brush, yelling as he was slammed into by an unknown man, “Go! I'll keep him here! Don't worry about me!”

Corrin wanted to stay and help, but knew she'd have to warn her mother that the attackers were making their way to the surrounding area. She stood as well and as quickly as she could and ran in the direction of the old apothecary. She could hear Silas yelling and grunting but didn't allow herself to look back. She focused on running, and when she could finally see the old building, she slowed her pace as she approached. 

Nothing looked out of the ordinary, at least for whatever disrepair the building was already in. The stones still gray and together, though the roof had seen some better days, and the ivies and plants were trying to reclaim the materials back to the earth. The door, however, was slightly ajar.

Corrin approached the door quietly after checking her surroundings. she brought her knife up to her chest, breathing deeply as she slowly peaked her head through the doorway. Forcing her foot to move, it inched itself into the building, moving her forward. She walked through the main corridor and did not see anyone in the darkness. There was a hidden shelter in the main study, and Corrin wondered if her mother had hidden there.

With a hard swallow, she made her way quietly through the building, the rain suddenly picking up outside, breaking the silence apart. She reached the doorway for the study and felt her breath becoming faster. Unsure of how much more she could take, she prayed her mother was safe, opening the door as quietly as she could. She saw the back of a woman at the other end of the room and, quickly recognizing the figure, began to call out,”Mother! I'm-”

Stopping herself, she noticed her mother was standing still, her head slanted. A hand she hadn't noticed removed itself from her mother's back, bloodied teeth removed from her neck as her body fell to the ground. As her eyes followed her mother she didn't notice the culprit pull up his face covering as he faced her. Corrin's eyes met with the attacker's and everything became still.

The entirety of her body pulsed alongside her heartbeat. Everything and nothing swirled in her head at once, her eyes agape, her lips parted, taking a sharp breath, and as if her breath caused the world to move again, the predator moved, tauntingly making his way toward his prey, toward her. His eyes locked on hers, he stepped around her mother's body and with each step Corrin felt more frozen.

‘ Run! Why won't you move!’

She kept her gaze on his as he approached, but as he stood before her, towering above her, he leaned in placing his face next to hers. He looked over her face down to her neck. He glanced up at her eyes as he smelled her softly, reaching his hand up to lift her chin toward him. He looked over her face and she could see the smile in his eyes as he relished her fear.

‘ Move, now! At least die fighting!’

“ Will you have as much fight as she did? It always makes this more fun,” the man said, his voice alluring. “But,” he leaned closer to her ear,”it would be faster for you if you just give in.” He let go of her chin, whispering now,” Your choice.”

She felt her body shiver, causing her to feel the dagger she held in her hand. She looked past him at her mother, daring a glance above her, at the door she knew was hidden. It didn't seem disturbed. “My mother…,” she muttered.

At that she noticed he pulled away slightly, his eyes looking over her face rapidly. He hadn't seemed to notice her looking anywhere other than her mother, now she just needed to move her body.

“Your mother ?” he hissed quietly.

She startled faintly at his sharp tone. She nodded and whispered,” Yes.”

His eyes peered through her before he shifted, turning his head to look at the woman he had just killed. Corrin tightened her grip and finally willed her body to move, shoving her dagger into his chest. She heard him let out a yell but turned quickly on her heel and ran out the door, going as fast as she could out of the building into the rain. 

She looked back to the tree line where she had separated from Silas, and thought to run that direction when she could see another figure lurking in the bushes. Deciding to go the opposite direction she hurriedly ran into the surrounding thicket. Her throat felt clawed at with each breath and her eyes like they would explode. She heard a snap and turned her head causing her to trip over a fallen branch. 

Before she could hit the ground she felt arms around her. As she looked to see who had grabbed her, she found only another dark-clad figure. She pushed away from him with whatever fight she had left, but he pushed her back into a tree, pinning her with one of his arms and the weight of his body against hers and covered her mouth with his free hand. He leaned in close to her face and let out a very faint,” Ssssh.”

Corrin's eyes began to water as she looked over what she could see of his covered face, but he showed no interest in her, instead looking at where she had just come from. She tried to tell if he were vampire or human, but all she could see was a small tuft of white hair peeking out from underneath his hood. She felt her brow furrow as she looked at what she could see of his clothes, and realized she had seen them before. But where? 

As he turned his focus back to her, she saw only one of his eyes was visible, the other covered. He moved his arm off of her torso and placed his hand on her shoulder, still holding her against the tree. He leaned his face closer to her ear and whispered lowly,” I will remove my hand, but unless you want to be discovered, you will remain quiet. Understood?” Corrin tried to read what she could see of his face, but nodded shakily. He raised a brow at her,”Good. It's always nice with someone who knows how to do as they're told.”

He removed his hand from her mouth, putting it up as if to tell her not to move. He took off his own cloak, revealing his mid-length hair, and placed it around her hastily. He lowered his head slowly as he made eye contact and began to gently move his body toward her, his arms on either side of her, pinning her to the tree,” Be still.”

Corrin wasn’t sure how to react, still unsure if she were being toyed with or helped. In this close proximity, she couldn’t feel any warmth coming from the man in front of her, mixed with his clothing and she was almost certain he was a vampire. So then, what kind of sick game was he putting her through? She could tell she was coming down from the adrenaline high that had kept her going, and the sharp stings and pains were returning. Her whole body ached, beginning to shiver- from her inflictions, the cool rain, or both she wasn’t sure.

Despite wanting to collapse, she did her best to stay still, listening to the rainfall for any hint of something that didn’t belong when she heard a slow approach. The sound so faint she was surprised she had heard it at all. The man over her closed the gap between them more, fully enveloping her with his own body. They stayed motionless, as if two statues left out to the elements, as they listened to the footsteps advance. 

So close. She was certain they would be found when she heard the advancer take in a deep breath. Were they trying to smell her scent? The sound of faster steps came quickly. 

“Sir! We couldn’t find her anywhere. The others are worried the royal knights may be fast approaching.”

The one who seemed to have been looking for her did not answer immediately, as if mulling over their thoughts, “Fine. I’m certain she will find her way to us.”

That voice. Corrin recognized it as the vampire who had killed her mother. She was certain now he was looking for her. He let out an ominous laugh, “Besides, it’s only polite to return her dagger.”

With that, the sloshing of mud and wet leaves filled the air, growing more faint until only the drumming of the rain remained. Not daring to move, Corrin waited until the man above her did, removing his body from against her and lowering his arms from around her. 

Corrin stared at him, as though she would be able to read his mind to find his intentions. 

Sensing her unease, he was the first to speak, “If I were going to kill you, I could have done it a hundred times over by now. Although…” As he paused, she could tell through the shape of his eye that he smiled under his face covering, “You do fit so nicely under me. A shame really.”

“Why?” She blurted out. “Why help me and not-” she choked, unable to finish her question. The image of all those she had seen that evening ran through her head.

“Wow. No thank you? You country folk not have manners?”

She felt lost for words as she looked over the odd man in front of her. As she opened her mouth, she felt her eyes begin to lose focus and her breathing speed up. She reached her hand to her head as the world began to spin around her and she felt herself begin to lose balance. 

“You’re going to be safe now,” Corrin heard the man say before she finally fell forward, losing consciousness.

Chapter Text

Corrin woke with a start, sitting up briskly only to be hit by a wave of pain flowing through her. Her aching head paled to the side of her stomach and her entire left side burned. She removed the tunic that laid across her to examine her wounds, only to find them cleaned and dressed. She blinked in confusion, running her fingers over the bandages unsure of who had treated her. 

She also realized she was only wearing a simple shirt- and it wasn't hers. 

The memories of how she'd gotten her wounds came flooding back and she gasped, looking around timorously to see where she was. She could tell it was an old cabin, no signs of any recent life save for a lit fire in the hearth, where her clothes had been hung over. Cobwebs and dust were the only decor she could see and the air left her wishing for water. 

She placed her hand to her head only to wince and pull it back. She hadn't noticed the bandage on her left hand, but it was now staining red. She let out a deep sigh as she looked around for any leftover bandages. She would even suffice for her bag as she knew she had healing supplies in there, but couldn't notice it anywhere. 

She debated trying to stand when she heard the slight creak of the door opening. Hastily pulling the tunic back over her legs, she knew she wouldn't be able to put up much of a fight if the need should arise, but at least she'd have some dignity. Holding her breath, she watched until the man who had helped her the night before entered. She released the breath but kept her eyes trained on him.

He simply huffed at her in amusement before crossing the room to set something down near the fire,” Finally awake, huh?”

Corrin continued her stare, still unsure of his intentions. ‘He has continued to help me though. And treated… my…’ 

“How long was I out?” She asked.

He kept his focus toward the fire as he responded, “Hm, maybe a week. I've lost track.”

“What?!”

Letting out a chuckle he finally turned to her,” No. Although, it has been about a day and a half, maybe two. You were pretty beat up. Speaking of which-” He walked over to her holding a small bag and knelt down beside her,”May I?”

He reached out for her hand which she hesitantly offered. As he took off the bandage she noticed a fleeting twitch in his brow as her blood ran down her hand, but couldn't see his covered face. He pulled out some herbs she had seen her mother use before and placed them in her wound before beginning to put new bandages on it. She watched him quietly,” How did you know it opened?”

He paused a moment before he answered,” I think you know.”

Corrin didn't say much else as she watched him wrap her hand. She had so many questions, she wasn't sure where to begin- or if she'd even get any answers. When he finished wrapping her hand she grabbed his wrist before he stood, “I, uh…Thank you.” She felt something metallic under her hand and noticed she had grabbed a dark metal wrist cuff- on it was the seal of the Dusk clan, the twin moons on either side of the elegant star, adorned with purple gems, in the middle. 

Noticing her awe, he pulled his hand from her grasp gently,” Yeah.” He went back over to the fire and kneeled beside it, looking to her,”I'll need to at least redress the wound on your abdomen. Wouldn't want a scar on such nice skin.”

The sudden realization that he had tended her wounds made her face hot and her eyes wide, “Y-you….”

Laughing at her he shrugged his shoulders in jest,” I figured, if you had to choose between dying and having someone see your stomach…” She could see him roll his eye as he turned his attention to something nearby the fire.

She gripped the tunic on her lap and stammered over her words, “Did…You didn't…You know…” She stared down at her hands, bracing for the worse.

She could hear him pause his actions again. “No,” he said sternly. He let out a soft sigh,”I know you have no reason to trust what I say, but I can assure you I wouldn't stoop to…well that.” He resumed whatever he was doing, “Besides, I prefer to see the writhing faces of my-”

“Understood,” Corrin blurted out. While he was right, she had no obligation in trusting him, something told her he was telling the truth. She was grateful for all he had done thus far to help her. She tried to lean to see what he was doing, but he hid it well and movements caused pain, until she heard a sizzle. Was he cooking? “I thought you ate…,” she made a generalized gesture with her hand.

“Oh, I do. But you don't. At least, not yet,” he said turning his head slowly toward her. He snickered at her surprised reaction and rolled his eye again,”You make this almost too easy.”

“Well, why aren't you… eating me? Or drinking? Whatever it is you do.” 

“I have no reason to.” 

“Then why did… last night? Were they not of Dusk?”

“No,” he said curtly. “The Dusk isn't a bunch of savages that attack villages.”

“The Dawn then?"

He didn't answer her question and instead seemed to be mixing something. She didn't want to possibly upset the vampire in the room while she was down, and let it rest- for now.

Moments passed in silence before he approached her again 

“Here,” he handed her a cup, with what looked to be some sort of tea, and some fabric serving as a plate with, from what she could tell, parts of rabbit. 

She muttered a quiet thank you as she took the food from him. Hesitantly taking a sip of the tea, she let out a deep sigh as the warmth soothed her throat. The aroma from the cup reminded her of a pain suppressant plant her mother would use.

She set the cup beside her, staring at the liquid inside,” My mother… She-” Corrin chanced a look to the man's gaze, which he averted as he shook his head, confirming what she'd seen. Her throat tightened as she buried her face in her hands, trying not to break in front of this stranger. 

She felt a hand on her shoulder,” I know it doesn't mean much from one of my kind, but I'm sorry.”

Corrin nodded silently. She tried to remember what she could about the vampire she had seen killing her mother, but didn't have much to go on from the darkness that had surrounded them, but his voice- she could still hear it as if he were the one next to her now. The only other clue she had was a mention of the Dusk clan from Silas.

Silas. Was he even alive? She knew he had strength, but did he have enough to win against a vampire with his old sword? She had seen one approach from that direction when she had run out of the old apothecary- perhaps he was dead, dying to protect her, just like her mother had died protecting the children.

She gasped,”The children. In the old-”

“No need to worry.”

“What?”

He let out a sigh as his brow furrowed,”I'm not sure I should tell you a lot of this but- I'm sure milord would understand given the circumstances.” 

She looked at him with confusion, “Milord?”

He shook his head softly, “Ah, ah, ah, that information would cost you extra.” He moved back toward the fireplace, sitting in a more comfortable position. He seemed to be debating whether he really should divulge the information to her, and sighed reluctantly as he spoke again,” Though you may find it hard to believe, we Dusk did not attack you. Who the attacker's were, I can not tell you for certain, even if I did know. All you need to know is that I have already sent for and received aid since you have been unconscious.”

He looked to the fire as he continued,” After I found a safe spot for you, I retraced your steps to the old building. The hidden door was so painfully obvious. Whoever attacked in there must have been pretty distracted-” He stopped to reword, or at least reroute, his statement,”I found the children inside, safe and sound, though reasonably terrified. They and the other survivors have been located to a safe haven, courtesy of the royal guard.”

She sat silently, unsure of what to say. On one hand, she was relieved to hear there were some survivors, and that her mother's death had not been in vain. On the other, how could she know this story to be true? “ A safe haven?”

“Yes. A village under our protection.”

“And why weren't we under your protection?” She snapped.

He let out a deep sigh,” You are now-”

“Now doesn't bring the dead back! Doesn't bring my mother…,” she stopped herself. She covered her eyes with her hands, “I'm sorry. You're helping now. You've helped me more than you needed. But then why-” She cut herself off again. But then why was he even there? What reason did a Dusk clan member have for being in her village conveniently when other vampires were attacking? 

“-if you'd like.”

She turned her head to him,”Sorry?”

“The safe haven. I figured I could escort you there. Though, you are free to go wherever you please. I can not, however, recommend returning to your village until the guard has finished their investigation.”

The royal guard was investigating. If she were to go to the safe haven, would she ever be allowed to know who did this? Would she ever be allowed the chance to avenge her mother? Her friends? She looked over to the man, gazing at his cuff he wore,” What if I were to volunteer myself? After all, I have nowhere else to go.”

She could see as his brow raised in confusion,” You get attacked by vampires, and then want to volunteer yourself? I've seen some interesting things people have been into, but this is certainly a first.”

“Just tell me.”

He put his hand to his head as he shook it,” Well, I can't stop you, but-”

“Just tell me, please,” she demanded.

He looked to her, meeting her eye,”I can not say who you are chosen by. I also can not tell you much of the process, but you would be treated well, if that were truly your desire to offer yourself.”

She hesitated before responding, “Would I….die?”

“No, probably not. Unless someone got a hold of you, she can get a bit uh… I digress.” He cleared his throat, getting himself back on track, “No. We value our… I'm not sure how to politely say it. The happier the cows, the better the meat, to put it bluntly. No need to waste a good supplier.”

She swallowed hard. All manner of scenarios ran through her head of what might await her should she make this decision, but one thing she did know about the process was that volunteers were taken to the capital of the clan they chose. After that, it remained a mystery to her. But, if she were to follow the only clues she had, the capital of the Dusk clan would be the place to start, “And if I should change my mind, even at the last second?”

“What I can say is that you must accept your warden before a pact can be made. I really can not tell you much more.”

“Why would they need my permission?”

“Oh, we don't. But our princes like to value civility and honor, or so they say. As you saw the other night, though, not all of us do. It's best for you to remember that.”

She mulled over her thoughts, weighing her options. She could try and use this as an opportunity to move around the capital to find answers, but also she had no way to be sure what her life would be like, who her warden would be, or how they treat their humans. She wasn't even certain of how much freedom she would be given. 

She thought of the survivors of her village,” Has anyone else from the survivors volunteered?” 

“No. I doubt many of them even want to have the guard nearby after the night they had, let alone offer themselves to be fed on.” 

“Does the exchange for volunteering still stand, even if my people are scattered?”

He hesitated to answer her and when he did she could hear his reluctance,” It depends, there are different factors. Who you pact with, their station, but, if chosen, each volunteer can receive compensation to do with as they please.”

“Then,” she paused. She couldn't return to her home, would she even want to? Whether she went to the new village or offered herself, her life would change, it already had, and it could never be the same. She could at least choose some part of her fate, and in doing so she could try to help others. “I would like to volunteer myself.”

Corrin heard the man sigh, “You are definitely interesting. Maybe I will choose you for myself.”

Corrin felt her face flush at the thought. She looked at the wounds he had dressed along her body,” My wounds, the blood. Did you-” 

He understood what she was trying to ask,”No, I did not drink of you, you would know if I had. Not to say I did not want to, your blood does have something about it, but I like to think I'm above being a dirty animal. Besides, as of now you are officially a ward of the royalty until you have chosen a service and have been selected. No one may feed on you without consequence from Their Highnesses.” 

“They can tell when someone has been fed on?”

“Yes.” He shivered slightly as he spoke, “I dread to think of the last time someone took a taste of a volunteer before they were brought to the royal family-”

“Brought to the royal family?” 

He sucked through his teeth,” Honestly, I've said too much, but you seem set on volunteering anyway. Though, your village must have been quite out of the loop to not know the basics. You will choose a service. You may enter the Nightshades, where you are tasked with donating without being fed upon directly. Then there are the Thorns, those who offer themselves to aid our armies. Familiars would see you entered into, most likely, maid service, but can see any who are accepted to serve the castle or other nobility. Lastly, you may choose to try your luck at being a Chalice.”

“My luck?”

“Yes. Chalices are fed on directly, being chosen by a vampire who is given exclusivity over them. However, it would be an insult to give the royalty the leftovers. They are given first choice over new Chalices, though that part is not widely known unless you have selected that service.” 

“And if a Chalice isn't chosen?”

He responded with amusement,”I mention the royals and you are worried about not being chosen. They are passed down the nobility, and if not selected they are given the choice to take on the other three services. Probably good to not get your hopes up. The Princesses will not attend the next selection, Prince Xander does not choose very often, and Prince Leo…”

She felt a pang at hearing that name. Something about it struck her, sending a shiver through her body. She also noticed the man's tone had softened when he said it,” What about him?”

He let out an amused huff,” Well, he has never taken on a Chalice. Sees it as pointless frivolities he'd rather not deal with or put on anyone. The royal Chalices are considered something akin to consorts in some cases.”

She felt herself swallow,” Consorts? What does that entail?”

“I've really said too much. But, if you let on you know any of this too early, well… I'm not above a bit of rule breaking.” He came back over to her, kneeling beside her, “I need to change your bandages. Can't present you in too rough of shape. Milord might get cross with me.”

She watched silently as he worked on her wounds. She really was grateful,” Corrin.”

“Hm?”

“My name, it's Corrin.”

“Well, Corrin, you ought to eat and rest. We leave tomorrow morning.” 

Chapter Text

Corrin sat high upon the man's palfrey, a beautiful mare with a blue roan coat. He still refused to tell her his name, and while she didn't know much about horses, his horse and his cuff, that seemed to have been through the hands of a lapidary, suggested a high status he did not wish to compromise. 

He surprised her when he'd woken her at the break of dawn to leave for the capital. The area they had been in was still in the process of transitioning to the autumn's perpetual night with the sun still rising for a brief time. Her, with her injuries, and him, covered head to toe to guard against light, set off. 

That had been three days ago.

Initially, they had walked as fast as she could manage until they came upon a spot where he had hitched his horse, not too far from where they had been, and he insisted Corrin rest on horseback as they traveled. She knew it was only to make the trip go faster, but she was both glad and guilty that she didn't have to walk.

But she was only growing more sore as the trip wore on. Perhaps it had meant to be some sort of psychological torture to wear her down before they arrived, to make her more agreeable to anything if it meant getting to move around.

“I truly think I can walk,” she insisted.

He scoffed at her, “I assure you, we are almost there.”

She huffed, “Surely some exercise would be good for me. Why not allow me to walk?”

He shrugged,” A feeling.”

“What?”

“Nothing. It would behoove me to present an acceptable specimen as a possible Chalice. As much as I would enjoy it, M'lord would scold me if he knew I allowed a broken, injured, little lamb to be offered to the court.”

“You talk about your lord quite a bit, must be someone special. Especially if you can't tell me your name.”

“Regardless of my position, what purpose would it serve for you to know? Our chances of meeting again are quite slim.”

“You did mention there was a chance for you to choose me.”

“Merely a jest,” he said, trying to sound convincing.

She smiled, a tone of amusement in her voice,” Well how ‘bout this? If I meet you again, you'll tell me your name.”

“And if I don't?”

“Well…,” she thought it over. ”I don't know,” she pouted. “It just might be nice to know the name of the person who's helped me so much.”

He laughed at her, “I'll tell you my name if Prince Leo ever chooses a Chalice.”

She sighed, “I suppose I'll take what I can get.”

“Good. And by the way,” he paused.

“Hm?”

“You can start to see somewhat of an outline through the forest ahead.”

Corrin looked forward, having been focused on him, to see just the hint of what looked like a possible building peeking over the treeline. Though her eyes were usually pretty well adjusted to the darkness, the darkness here seemed to take some getting used to. She looked over the forest next. Thick, tall trees in such abundance, much more than she'd seen before. She had, of course, seen the outskirts of forests, but something about this one felt beautiful to her, despite the dark.

She felt a shiver as they continued on, toward the capital.

—-

They finally made it through the forest to the outskirts of the dark iron gates that surrounded the town, towering over it and her. She waited atop the mare patiently as her escort approached the guards and spoke to them. He returned after only a brief moment and they were allowed entry. After being allowed in, he halted his horse before coming to her side to aid Corrin's descent off of her. He then handed the reins to one of the guards, giving the mare a soft pat and making his way back to Corrin.

“Let's go,” he said, ushering her to follow. “Let me know if you have trouble.”

Corrin hadn't walked in days, but did her best to keep up. She noticed his pace gaining in speed at points and slowing down at others, almost as if testing her injuries. Now wasn’t the time for her to complain, however, and as they made their way through the buildings, approaching the town center, she began to feel the weight of the situation hit her. She hid her hands under her cloak as they began to shake and tried to steady her breath to calm her increasing heart rate. 

“You alright?” she heard him ask before coming to a stop.

She closed her eyes and took a deep breath,”Y-yeah. I think I'm just nervous.”

“You can back out at any time. Even if a royal picked you, you can decline. Humans have quite the freedoms here. As you'll see,” he stated before beginning to walk again, leading her through the market. 

She awed at the sheer size of the market compared to the one from back home. 

‘Home…This is my home now…’

“Wait here. I’ll return swiftly,” was all the man said before he seemed to disappear into thin air.

Corrin stepped back, trying to blend into a nearby wall to stay unnoticed. She took a deep breath as she lowered her head, all manner of thoughts rushing through her at once, but she forced it back up after a short time. If this were truly the choice she was making and if this would be her home now, she shouldn’t shy away from the life here, shouldn’t seclude herself from it. She lifted her head, looking around to take it all in. She realized the markets were full of, mostly, humans. ‘ Right,’ she thought, ‘ what need would vampires have to shop for food in the market, but then maybe for their human servants…’

She gulped as she remembered why she was here. She felt her cheeks warm slightly and her hand reached up to rest on the side of her neck. She looked at her other hand, still bandaged, and looked over herself. She was filthy and covered in wraps, her clothes tattered, and surely the rest of her was a mess, too. Who was really going to pick her for anything?

Trying to keep her mind off of herself, she observed the people and buildings. Much of the buildings seemed to be made of a darker wood, matching the drab clothing that many of the townsfolk were wearing. Many flags with the Dusk seal were strewn here and there on various buildings, though not too close to the many candlelit lanterns, as well as on market stalls, and worn on the occasional guard's cloak or armor. 

With the exception of the occasional vampire and some of the ‘interesting’ commodities, it almost seemed like her old market. With that in mind she found herself sighing again.

And as quickly as he’d left, the man returned, startling her, and ushered for her to follow.

She increased her step to gain proximity to her escort and stayed closely behind him. She had to stay determined, if not only to help the remainder of her village, but perhaps she could still find answers. If she were selected by a higher noble, even, perhaps she could have more freedom to investigate than she previously thought. She wouldn’t bet on being picked by a royal, from the sound of it, there was such a slim chance she knew she shouldn’t even imagine what she’d do if somehow she were chosen. Although, would that give her access to the castle? The castle… The castle!

As they rounded a corner she could see the castle standing tall in the center of the capital. It was imposing, nothing like the houses and buildings she was used to seeing. The stones were the color of ash, the dark banners that hung from various points were adorned with purple, black, and spots of gold around the sigil of the clan, the large ornate windows were all lit up from the lights that shone behind them. As she got closer she could see the surrounding wall, the monotony of it only broken by the large iron gate that allowed access across a small drawbridge to the ascending stairs that led to an entrance door that put the gateway to shame. 

She couldn’t see much else from outside the wall, but as they kept approaching, she wondered if he was taking her directly to the castle. ‘So soon?’

“Here.”

She stopped and looked at him. He was gesturing for her to enter into, what seemed to be, a house. She hesitated but stepped forward, he followed suit behind her.

“Well, I'll be,” a woman's voice said as they entered.

Corrin looked toward it to find a young-looking woman with long black hair. She wondered if the woman was perhaps a similar age, or even younger, but didn't get to think on it too long.

With his words strung out, teasingly, the man spoke to the woman, “I brought you a new book. I hear this one's pretty good.”

The black haired woman rolled her eyes at him as he approached her,” What do you want, now?”

“Just a little favor, nothing too big, really.”

The two of them left for another room, leaving Corrin to look around. The floors and walls were immaculate, but books were scattered about on, what she thought was, the dining table- the only actual table, really, as the room was filled with mostly various shelves and bookcases. Candles littered various places and random stones and food items were strewn about here and there. ‘Some kind of sorceress, perhaps?’

When the two returned, the woman looked her over. Corrin knew she was fully clothed but couldn't help but to feel as if she were standing there completely bare, her soul on display, with the stare-down she was receiving. Finally the woman walked over to her, reaching her hands out to touch various spots on Corrin's clothes and hair, giving out the occasional thoughtful hm.  

“Uh…,” Corrin muttered before receiving a quick ssh!

The woman did one final pass around her before rolling her eyes,”Fine. But no guarantees. Your dress will help her, but there's only so much I can do.”

“Just a nice clean up, and I think she'll do the rest,” the man said.

Rolling her eyes again the woman turned to Corrin, “I hope you're ready to get cleaned up, um…”

“Corrin,” Corrin replied.

“Nyx,” the woman responded, nodding her head quickly. “You're quite the mess, and it seems like your deliverer over here lost track of time. We've not got a lot of time to get you ready if you're to be at the castle tonight.”

“Tonight?!”

“Why, yes. Lucky for you, I've got a few tricks up my sleeves. First off is getting all of that dirt and mud out of that, surely, beautiful hair,” Nyx said as she pulled Corrin into a separate room. “We've no time for a full soak, you will probably receive a bath afterwards regardless. Please sit.”

Corrin sat next to a small tub, Nyx taking the cloak off of Corrin's shoulders and laying it down on a nearby chair. As if sensing her nervousness, Nyx's expression softened, “No worries, I won't bite.”

Corrin’s eyes shot up to Nyx’s face, only now noticing the fangs that dared to peek out only occasionally. She remembered the man telling her that no one could touch her while she was considered a volunteer, but she wasn't sure what was true and what was not. She felt afraid, her natural urge to steer clear of these creatures that could easily kill her made her want to run as fast and far as she could, especially after the horrors she had seen take place in her village. But she had to remind herself why she was here, why she was volunteering. She’d have to get used to it. Besides, she hadn’t had any issues with vampires before the attack, any that had passed through bought what they needed and didn’t bother anyone. And the ones here now seemed to be helping her. 

She really did want to trust the Dusk. She needed to try and get in with as high a noble as she could. Hardening her resolve, she pushed her fears down and took a deep breath,” Please, do what you need. I know how…unsightly I must look. I appreciate any help I can get.”

Nyx allowed herself a small smile, “Yes, well, after I’m through with you, I’m sure even the royals will give you a glance.”

Corrin smiled softly at that, and the two got to work.

—-

After what seemed like days, but in reality was only a few hours, Corrin let out a deep sigh as Nyx finally stepped back from her, the pulling and scrubbing and prodding seemingly at an end. 

“One final thing.”

Corrin groaned inwardly as she braced for more pain, but was surprised when none came. Instead, when she turned to look at Nyx, she was shocked to see her holding a simple, yet very nice, dress, at least to her. She thought it was black at first, though looking closer revealed it was a very dark blue, similar to the dark sky that lingered here. “I’m not sure why he felt so strongly about helping you out, but this is quite the number for a volunteer. Though, it isn’t too garish as to suggest that you’re higher status than you are,” Nyx stated, carrying it over to Corrin.

“It is beautiful… He’s left hasn’t he?”

“Yes.”

“If you see him, can you give him my thanks?”

Nyx shook her head, “I have a feeling you’ll be able to tell him yourself.”

After getting the dress on, Nyx led Corrin over to a mirror she had propped up against a wall. ‘ Who is that?” Corrin thought to herself. Her hair was placed up neatly, though not pristine and the dark dress fit her well, both working to show off much of her neck area. She didn’t think she’d ever shown so much of her skin while still being dressed before. She definitely did not look like the same girl who had walked in here earlier, dirty and broken, though she still wore a few visible bandages on her hand and arm, the rest hidden by the dress.

“Well?” Asked Nyx.

“I…I don’t know what to say.” 

“That bad, huh?”

“No! Not at all! I-”

“Only teasing, dear. I’m glad to see someone appreciates my work. Now, we really must be off if we’re to make it.”

“So soon?” Corrin felt her nervousness return.

“He said he’d let them know there would be another volunteer, but they won’t wait for you, even if you are volunteering as a Chalice. We’ll be heading directly to the castle,” Nyx walked over to the door, holding it open for Corrin. 

Corrin hesitated before following Nyx’s lead. They were only a stone’s throw away from the castle. The imposing structure she’d seen previously was now, finally, her destination. She was torn between her thoughts of soaking in as much as she can, in the event there are any clues, and the jitters she was beginning to feel. She could feel her hands begin to shake lightly, so she held them together at her waist as she walked. 

As they approached the iron gate Nyx walked up to a guard, “Another volunteer. Chalice. Apologies for being right on time.”

The guard grimaced but gestured for them to enter. They walked across the drawbridge and past the surrounding wall. Being so much closer made her feel so much smaller. Corrin could feel her eyes wide as she took in everything. Though it was quite dark, the castle shone brilliantly in the candlelit lanterns that littered along every path and window. The leaves on the trees reminded her of autumn back home, of the pumpkins that grew on her neighbors land, the leaves on the ground crisp despite the recent rain. As she ascended the stairs to the main doorway, she lifted the front hem of her dress, feeling her hands shake once more.

As the doorway bounded over her, she felt herself take a deep, shaky breath, stopping her steps. Nyx turned to her and grabbed one of Corrin’s hands, “Stand strong. And don’t take any low offers! If… When you get a nice rank, you remember who helped you out, alright?”

Corrin couldn’t seem to find her voice and simply nodded with a smile. Making sure her head was high, she walked through the doorway and entered the castle.

As soon as she passed through the door, it shut behind her startling her, two guards now standing in front of the exit. As she turned back around, she was being ushered by another guard to follow him. She felt Nyx squeeze her hand before letting go. As Corrin followed the guard, she looked back to see Nyx nodding to her before turning to make her exit. 

The guard took her to some form of overseer who looked over her and asked her quite a few questions. He asked where she was from, why she was volunteering, which group she intended to join, among other things, before finally giving the guard a nod and gesturing for them to head on by.

As Corrin followed the guard she was led through a series of large, ornate doors until finally she was led into a large room where many others were already waiting. 

“That’s the last one!” yelled the guard as the door to the room shut. 

‘They sure like to slam those things around here.’

Corrin walked over to join the other, presumably, volunteers, a smaller group than she was expecting, no more than fifteen other people. Some dressed much more extravagantly than her, most dressed similarly or plainly. She felt better knowing she wouldn’t be drawing too much attention to herself. But wasn’t that what she needed? 

The room itself was quite large. On the far end of the room was a stairway that led up to what seemed to be a platform- four thrones sat, two each on either side of a larger throne in the middle. A great wine-colored rug ran from the platform, down the stairs, all the way across the room to where she stood. Banners checkered along the walls, along with golden sconces, which seemed impractical when compared to the massive crystal chandelier that hung above in the center of the room. 

She looked over the chairs, surely for the royal siblings. Only two of which were to be here today, looking over the volunteers being allowed first choice. Though from the sounds of it, anyone being chosen was extremely unlikely. 

‘All I have to do is stand here without falling over while we all make it through the look-over from the princes.’

Right. The princes. Only one of which ever actually chose any Chalices for himself. No need to stress herself over this part. She’d make it through, and then possibly catch the eye of someone she could tolerate…feeding on her.

‘ What am I doing?!’ she panicked internally. ‘I don’t know if I can do this! Maybe I should just say no to anyone and go to Familiars. Surely I could still look for clues as a maid or-’

Her thoughts were cut off as a guard rushed by, placing them all into a line. As soon as they all stood shoulder to shoulder, another guard slammed his polearm against the ground before opening, yet another, door that Corrin hadn’t noticed tucked behind the thrones. 

“His Royal Highness, High Prince Xander!” the guard yelled out before an imposing looking man walked through and stopped at the top of the stairs, looking over them. Corrin averted her eyes to the floor, avoiding his gaze as it passed over each of them. 

“And His Highness, Prince Leo!” She heard called out, feeling drawn to look up, she saw him enter. He moved with a quiet grace, his face showed disinterest, his eyes never moving to even glance at the volunteers. Corrin couldn’t quite pull her eyes from him, her breath hitched and something felt like it wanted to pull her toward him. 

The room fell silent as other nobles followed behind them, but her heartbeat reverberated through her ears. No one moved, until she heard the sound of footsteps coming down the staircase. She forced her gaze away from Leo before he noticed her gawking at him, and saw Prince Xander making his way down. His demeanor seemed stern, serious, as he came to a stop as he reached the bottom. He turned, looking back up towards the thrones, “Come, brother. Join me, won’t you?”

Corrin could hear a silent sigh as more footsteps echoed down across the room. She took the chance to look at the others lined up next to her. Mostly women, though there were a handful of men. Though a few stood tall, most showed some sign of the anxiousness they all surely felt. She looked down, worried she may give away just how flustered she was if she were to look the princes in the eyes, and heard as only one pair of footsteps approached the lined volunteers.

She could hear as they walked down the line, noticing they seemed to belong to Xander as he walked past, slowing his pace slightly as he passed her. She looked up as he got to the end of the line, making a gesture towards his brother to meet with him as he returned halfway across the room. He stood in front of the younger prince, and as he turned back around, she lowered her gaze again. 

‘ What am I doing? Why can’t I look a prince in the eye? They’re not going to choose me anyway. I need to stand tall!’

“Well brother, I know you don’t find yourself interested in these affairs but I see a new potential Chalice on this night!” Xander called out.

‘What? One of the princes is going to choose one of us?”

The elder prince continued,” Though I do think you could at least humor them, give them a pass over. I do think you’d find yourself enjoying a Chalice, dear brother.”

She could feel the heaviness of the tension as Xander made his way back, standing before them. She looked up, meeting his gaze as he looked over them again, stopping as his eyes met hers, a chill ran through her. His look intense and powerful, seeming to look through her, as if he could read her thoughts. She held her breath as they awaited his choice. He began to take a step toward her. 

She was focused on him, a bit too focused, when she realized she heard the maids and guards murmuring amongst themselves, before it spread to the others, whispers dashing across the room. 

Xander stopped short of being in front of her, realizing the murmurs were not about him. He turned back to see what the others were looking at, and raised his brow with a grin.

Corrin followed his gaze to finally look upon the other prince- the other prince who was staring directly at her. She took a sharp breath as their eyes met, a wave of warmth making its way through her body, his eyes widening slightly as their eyes locked. She knew she must look like trapped game, and in a way she was, but she couldn’t tear her eyes from his and he kept his eyes trained on hers. His gaze also intense as Xander’s had been, but unlike his brother’s, she felt calmed, unafraid. 

“Are you alright, brother? See something you like?”

Leo didn’t respond to his elder brother’s inquiry. Instead he took a step forward, his gaze unwavering, causing Corrin to feel her face begin to warm.

‘Surely not…,’ she thought. ‘ He’s never chosen. Maybe I just have something on my face…’

She watched with bated breath as he drew nearer until he finally stopped in front of her. Taller than her, he looked down, still not removing his gaze. No one dared make a sound as they all watched the prince. Even Xander watched eagerly, amused at this sudden change of heart from his younger brother. 

Her heart raced in her chest, something about him made her want to match his approach, to meet him sooner, though she stayed unmoving. She tried to read his expression as time stood still. 

It felt like they stood there for hours, she had all but forgotten about the others present, when he softened his gaze and finally spoke, “You.” He held his hand out, as if asking for hers. She hesitated, unsure if that’s what he was doing, before she finally lifted her hand, placing it in his. As they touched she felt a shock run down her arm, like nothing she had felt before, and he gave her hand a gentle squeeze as he lifted it, placing a brisk kiss atop it. He lowered it back down, but still kept hold of it as he asked, “Might I ask your name?”

Catching a glimpse of his fangs as he spoke, she realized he must surely be able to know how her heart threatened to jump out of her chest. She almost hadn’t realized he had asked her a question when she blinked a few times, regaining her thoughts, “C-Corrin, Your Highness.”

“Corrin. What a lovely name. I am Leo. It is a pleasure to make your acquaintance.”

“You as well, Prince Leo,” Corrin responded, trying to remember to breathe.

After a brief pause, Leo took another step toward her, the gap between them almost nonexistent, “Corrin.” He hesitated a moment before continuing, “Would you-”

They both started as she was suddenly reminded of other people when a hand was placed on Leo’s shoulder, interrupting him. She saw a hint of annoyance in his eyes as he turned to look at Xander, who had made his way over. Xander spoke amusedly, “Ordinarily, we go in order of birth. You know how we value tradition.”

Leo glared at his brother a moment before turning back to look at her. He closed his eyes with a sigh and gave her a polite nod before letting go of her hand and stepping back, “Of course, brother.”

Corrin tried to steady her breath as she watched Leo return to the middle of the room. She finally got a better look at him, something she hadn’t bothered to do for either prince before. His light blonde hair was held in place with a small black crown, though a few strands threatened to escape. His clothing was dark, his shirt, with the sleeves slightly rolled up, just slightly lighter than his pants, contrasting his brother’s lighter palette choice, though both outfits were nicer than anything she’d seen. She thought she’d seen something on his wrist, but he turned before she could see what it was.

She had a hard time taking her eyes off of Leo as she turned to look to Xander who was making another pass down to the end of the line. He turned, making his way back, stopping before reaching her spot yet again, and looked over to Leo. She, too, turned her gaze to him only to notice he continued to look at her. His eyes flashed to his brother’s upon noticing he had stopped near her and his brow furrowed slightly. 

Xander turned his attention to Corrin suddenly as he took the final step in front of her. He towered over her much more than Leo had as he reached for her hand. She chanced a side look to Leo, noticing he now had his hands behind his back as he stood there stiffly. His jaw looked tight, as if he were clenching his teeth, annoyance creeping into his expression as he looked at Xander now. 

“Well, dear…Corrin, was it?” Xander asked.

Corrin nodded before seeing him hold his hand out. She hesitated before placing hers in his grasp, him giving her hand a kiss just as his brother had, though this one had lingered a bit longer.

Xander stood upright, lowering their hands as he spoke again, “Well, Corrin. I would like to choose you as my Chalice, if you’d have me.”

Corrin was taken aback. She looked up at him, trying to read his expression. She wanted to look over to Leo, had he been going to ask her the same question? ‘ I can refuse,’ she remembered.

Before she could answer, she noticed Xander turn his head away. He looked over at Leo as he lifted her hand toward him, guiding her to walk with him, “However, seeing as how Prince Leo has seemingly, finally , taken an interest in a Chalice, I will allow him first choice.” He led Corrin over to Leo who seemed as confused as she was. Xander placed her hand in Leo’s. 

“I do not appreciate tricks, brother,” Leo said tersely, annoyance in his tone.

“No tricks. But she may yet refuse you.”

Leo turned his attention to Corrin, looking at her hand in his as he seemed to mull over his thoughts. His eyes flowed over her as they made their way from her hand to her arm, to her shoulder, to her neck, where they paused briefly, before meeting with her eyes again, “Well, Corrin.” He lifted her hand, “I, too, would choose you for my own, should you accept.”

Corrin hadn’t considered this possibility. It had been nearly hammered into her to not even accept that this was a situation that could exist, let alone to her.

She realized everyone must be waiting for her reply. She wanted to wrap herself in her cloak and hide in the shadows, but she had neither her cloak, nor the liberty of slipping out of sight. She tried to consider all of her options, when she looked at their hands. Her thoughts calmed as she  saw her hand in his, something about it seemed right, something about it pulled her to him. Nothing else seemed to matter in that moment.

As she lifted her head back up, she smiled gently, “I will be yours, Prince Leo.”

Chapter Text

“I will be yours, Prince Leo,” Corrin stated with a gentle smile.

She wasn't sure what happened now, but as she looked at the prince standing in front of her, holding her hand, everything else melted away. He squeezed her hand gently as he returned her smile, a gesture that caused her to wince. He raised a brow as he looked at her hand, noticing the wrap that covered it. He ran his thumb over the top of her hand, a soft look in his eyes. 

Leo's eyes flashed down toward her waist, his eyes narrowing slightly before he turned to speak to his brother, “Xander, seeing as how she has accepted, I would excuse myself from the remaining festivities.” Corrin thought she saw him give a subtle nod towards her.

Xander's eyes flashed toward her hand for a brief moment before he bowed his head slightly toward his brother. “Of course, brother. Please,” Xander responded, lifting his hand so as to grant them leave.

Leo nodded at him, turning his attention back to Corrin, keeping her hand in his, he led her out of the room through the hall she had entered from. As they passed through the doorway, he let go of her hand, brushing her side as he turned to bow his head to Xander before the guards shut the door behind them.

Corrin stepped out ahead of him, the brush against her having been rougher than she thought. She thought after so many days since she'd been hurt that her injuries would be closed by now, and now was not the time for blood. She still wasn't sure if the clan was to be trusted, but perhaps being selected by the prince would give her some protection.

‘The prince…’

Corrin turned herself slightly to look behind her. Leo had been closer to her than she thought, startling her. He looked down at her, his expression unreadable. 

She wasn't sure how to address him, or even if she should . She never thought she'd encounter any royalty, let alone be standing right in front of one that intended to feed off of her- and with her consent no less. 

“My apologies, Your Highness. My presentation is surely not up to a prince's standards.”

He scoffed, amused, “Are you apologizing for being hurt?” He reached out for her hand again, turning it to look at her palm. As he lifted it he saw the scrapes on her arm, a grimace crossing his face, “If I may ask…”

Corrin looked away. While the physical wounds had tried to heal, she had not had any time to think past the emotional toll, though she knew it would hit her eventually.

He did not press for an answer, but when she adjusted her weight, she winced again, the pain from her side washing over her, “Again, my apologies. I understand what the role of being your Chalice entails, but might I ask for rest? I understand if my state causes you to reconsider your consideration.”

Corrin noticed him swallow hard after taking a sharp breath. He looked at her hand again before tilting his head, moving his gaze to her side, “Well, you are beat up aren't you?” He kept hold of her hand as he took a step, “Please, follow me.”

Regardless of if she had much choice, she followed behind him, her free hand gripping her side. She realized her hand felt wet, pulling it back to see red on her hand. Her eyes widened as they shot up to look at Leo. She didn't know how his kind reacted to blood, or if he'd want to feed on her now. 

Perhaps smelling the blood or noticing her heart quicken with worry, he spoke keeping his attention forward, “Yes, I know. No, I won't attack you.” He stopped abruptly, turning to meet her gaze after a moment’s hesitation, “You are under my protection now, and I do not intend to let anyone harm you, let alone allow myself to.”

She nodded to him gently, his expression seeming sincere. She hadn't realized her heart had been pounding until she felt herself calm, though she couldn't escape from the occasional nervous shiver, hoping he wouldn't notice as they walked. As they made their way through each corridor, she noticed how each was kept immaculate, each candle lit in every sconce, no piece of artwork daring to slant out of place, yet as they walked their footsteps echoed in the silence.

After taking turn after turn, they finally stopped in front of a door. The prince knocked quietly before opening it, "Please wait here a moment.”

Corrin watched as he disappeared, though she could hear a commotion after he entered. Someone, many someones by the sound of it, certainly had not been expecting one of the princes to come by unexpectedly. Finally he returned with a man and a woman. The man seemed to be quite put together, his silver hair tied back neatly, his clothes perfectly in place. The woman, while also put together, seemed a bit more disheveled. Her pink hair tied back, but many loose strands hung out, her apron stained from the day's work, and small cuts adorned her hands. 

Leo spoke to the two he had brought out, “This is Corrin.  She has been selected as Chalice. While ordinarily you two would be given more time to prepare, it seems she comes to us with injuries. I need you to tend to her and show her to her room.” 

The man stood, only responding with a nod. The woman, however, allowed her surprise to be very apparent on her face, “Whaa- A new Chalice?! Is she a royal Chalice? And you picked me ?!”

Leo turned his attention to Corrin, “This is Jakob and Felicia. They will be your Familiars.” He turned his attention to the two servants, “You two may need to go grab supplies.”

“Yes, M'lord,” each said as they returned to the room they had emerged from.

Corrin couldn't stop herself from blurting out the question burning on her mind once the door closed, “W-will you… Are you not going to be-?” She couldn't bring herself to finish the question, if she would be his prey.

Leo smiled softly at her. He stepped closer to her, standing in front of her directly. She watched as he lifted his hand toward her neck, making her heart quicken and her breath hitch. She tried to stay still as his fingers brushed gently across her cheek, bracing herself for him to grab her and feed. Instead, however, after his fingers brushed past, he tucked loose strands of her hair behind her hair, his touch soft and caring, “No. Please do not worry yourself with such matters.” His gaze softened before stepping back, ”They will take care of you. Should you need anything, please do not hesitate to send for me.”

The door opened with Jakob and Felicia returning, Jakob holding supplies to tend to her wounds. The two of them lowered their heads respectively, with Jakob speaking, “We will take care of her, M'lord.” 

And with that Leo turned and walked off, leaving Corrin with the two standing in front of her. As she turned to face them, she felt her knee buckle and stumbled forward. The two caught her and gave each other a worried look, noticing the blood on her hand. They worked together to rush her into a room, but she couldn't focus on where they were taking her. 

Finally she was set down and she felt hands on her. Her head turned sharply to see the woman next to her. ‘Oh. Felicia? I think?’

Said woman opened her mouth to speak, “You're bleeding. Is it alright for us to see?”

Corrin took deep breaths as she nodded to her. She aided as much as she could as Felicia tried to help remove her dress. Corrin could tell she was trying not to cause any more pain, but with the shape of the bodice, it rubbed against her wound. 

Felicia removed the bandages from Corrin's side, gently patting away the blood with a clean cloth, “This looks like it was patched up recently, but she'll need new stitches, Jakob. There may be some infection.”

The man in question nodded to her, walking away to a table, setting down most of the supplies he carried before making his way back over to them. Many of the supplies he held Corrin had heard of from her mother, but hadn't seen in person or could never afford. He'd also brought over a small glass bowl, removing the lid and scooping out some sort of balm before rubbing it around her wound. 

Corrin winced back at his touch and let out a quiet chuckle, “I'm a pretty poor excuse for a Chalice, huh?”

Felicia smiled back to her,” We've seen worse. Besides, it seems Prince Xander has very good taste. You are quite beautiful.”

“Beautiful? I don’t know about that-” Corrin was cut off when she felt another sharp sting. 

Jakob applied more salve to her wounds before grimacing, “My goodness. How did you come to be so beat up? And who thought this was a job well done?”

Corrin hesitated to lift her skirt, revealing her leg before showing her arm and hand, “Vampire fight?” She said with a pained chuckle. 

—

As Jakob and Felicia worked to clean and properly dress Corrin's wounds, Corrin began to become comfortable enough to tell them how she got her wounds. At some point she had wondered how she'd ending up in so many predicaments where men needed to see so much of her skin, but she'd take it over dying. 

As she spoke of her mother, she often caught herself tearing up, though she tried to hide it. Eventually she couldn’t, but found herself shocked when she received a hug from Felicia.

“Sorry, but it seemed like you needed it.”

As they began to finish up, Jakob had begun putting new stitches in her side, “There was quite a bit of debris and glass still residing in these wounds. You must have had quite the adrenaline high to not only make it to the castle, but not pass out as Xander selected you.”

“Actually-”

“It's interesting he had Prince Leo bring you to us. Usually he comes by after the festivities and hand selects us himself. One for tradition he is.”

Felicia spoke next, “He probably figured Prince Leo didn’t want to be there anyway and needed someone he could trust to bring her to us.”

Corrin tried interjecting again, “Well, um…Prince Xander. I’m not his Chalice.”

Jakob grimaced slightly, “Well then it seems more odd that Prince Leo would be escorting a mere noble’s Chalice.”

Corrin felt a blush on her face as she remembered what had happened, “Well you see…Prince Leo chose me.”

The sound of broken glass reverberated throughout the room, followed by silence as the two stared at her. Felicia covered her cheeks with her hands, “Whaaaat?! Prince Leo's…You mean you're Leo's Chalice?!” 

Jakob snapped at her, “ Prince Leo! And clean up the glass!”

Felicia let out a flustered, “Ah! I'm so sorry!” Felicia rushed off to find something to sweep with, leaving Jakob and Corrin alone.

“And that is why I am doing your stitches, M'lady.” 

“M'lady?” Corrin asked.

“Yes. You are a Chalice now, a royal one at that. You are afforded a proper title.”

“Please, just Corrin is fine.”

He didn't respond to her request as he continued to tend to her stitches. When Felicia returned to begin cleaning up the glass, Corrin noticed Jakob roll his eyes at her, but kept his focus on his work. 

After some time, Corrin let out a soft sigh, “Thank you, both of you. For helping me.”

“It is no problem, M’lady. We do as we are asked,” Jakob responded. 

“Even still, I haven’t had this much care seen to my wounds since my mother…,” Corrin stopped speaking, looking away.

Jakob scoffed, “Yes, well, anyone would have treated this better than the imbecile who did not even get all of the glass out. I am pretty sure I know who it was based on what you’ve said-”

Corrin’s head snapped back, “You think you know who helped me? Can you tell me his name?”

Jakob looked back with surprise, “Um, well, I’m afraid I can not divulge that. However, if you have been chosen by Prince Leo, then I am sure you will have the displeasure of his company soon.” Jakob let out an irritated sigh before Corrin heard one final, quiet snip. “You are quite easy to work on. Your wounds should be properly cleaned now. We will let Lord Leo know as soon as we are able.” 

“You know Jakob,” Felicia interjected. “If he was on reconnaissance, he may not have eaten as much as he’d like. Maybe he didn’t want to end up feeding on her if-”

“Do not make excuses for him! He should know better as a royal-,” he stopped himself, realizing he’d begun to say too much. He cleared his throat as he finished placing some medicine over the wound he had just sewn shut.

He stood after cleaning all of his supplies, placing them on a nearby table and grabbing a plain dress that he promptly handed to Corrin, “Something simple while we escort you to your room. Though, please try not to bleed on it too much.”

Corrin nodded as she tried lifting it over her head, her fresh stitches causing her to wince. Felicia rushed over, grabbing the garment and eased it down Corrin’s arms and over her head. Corrin thanked her and used the woman’s hand as leverage as she stood herself up. She had been sitting still for hours, after having been sitting still on a horse for days, so despite the sting she felt echoing through her, standing felt nice. 

She followed the two of them as they began to escort her through the hallways. She knew that by now, she surely was no longer presentable again. Most of her hair had fallen from the tied up style it had been in, her beautiful dress no longer being worn- covered in her blood, and her body a cut up mess. She was positive that Prince Leo was telling the truth when he said he would not be feeding on her tonight, why would he want to?

She followed quietly as she was led to her new quarters, not sure what to expect. As they finally reached a doorway where the two had stopped, Jakob opened the door, holding it open as he gestured for her to head in, “After you, M'lady.”

Corrin hesitated before walking in, Felicia following close behind her. Jakob bowed slightly before speaking, “I shall return momentarily.” And with that, he shut the door.

Corrin looked around the room in disbelief, This is… my room? ”

“Yes, ma'am,” Felicia replied. She tilted her head, unsure of Corrin's expression, “Do you not like it? This is only one of our Chalice wings so I'm sure Prince Leo could find you another if you-”

Corrin cut her off, “No, no, nothing like that. It's just so…Are you sure it's for me?”

“I'm pretty sure. Is there something wrong?”

“Nothing wrong. I just,” Corrin paused as she walked along the room. She looked at the small seating area next to the hearth, the open space with a gorgeous rug made of material she hadn't seen before, the book shelves, the bed covered in a dark violet, and the doors that led out to a personal balcony. She stood, looking in awe, “I'm pretty sure this room is bigger than my entire house was.”

Felicia walked past her to a pair of doors Corrin hadn't noticed, “Oh, this one is your bath and the other is for your wardrobe.”

Corrin blinked, walking over to the seating area and taking a seat. She stared at the lit fire in the hearth wondering if she were dreaming. Perhaps she had fallen asleep while taking a bath that night. But then, would this be a nightmare or a heaven? She had yet to find out- after all, all of this came at a price.

‘ I could go for a bath, though.’

They heard a light knock and her heart raced, wondering if Leo had changed his mind. The door creeped open before Jakob came into the room carrying a tray with tea and some small foods. Corrin let out a sigh as she relaxed in her chair, Jakob striding over to set the tray on the table near her. 

“While I'm sure you'd prefer a full meal, and while I would like to figure out which teas you like best, perhaps a smaller meal is fine for now,” he said as he poured a cup for her.

“Um…thank you, Jakob,” Corrin said as she took the cup. 

“Yes, well, I'm sure you're ready to rest for the night. We shall take our leave. We will return in the morning. Should you need us, there is a stringed pendant just there that you may pull,” he said as he lowered his head into a polite bow. Felicia mimicked his movements before they both left the room. 

Corrin sat quietly, admiring the flames flickering in the hearth. For some time she stayed, bringing her feet onto the chair to rest her head against her knees. At some points she would fidget with the items on the tray, but couldn't bring herself to eat.

Finally she stood and walked over to the bed, noticing a sleep gown had been laid out for her. She assumed it must have been Felicia's doing, and rustled the dress she was wearing away before putting on the new one. She recognized it as being made from silk, but hadn't realized just how small it was going to be on her, how little it left to the imagination, barely falling to her mid-thigh, the neckline low on her chest.

‘ I understand the neckline, but why is it so small?’ She remembered the man who had brought her here mentioning the royal Chalices being similar to consorts and she felt her face warm at the realization. ‘ Surely not! There's no way I… No way he… ’

Corrin sat on the bed covering her face. “What have I gotten myself into?” she asked into her hands. 

She crawled under the blankets, reveling in their softness after days of sleeping in abandoned houses and makeshift shelters. The relief she felt on her wounds almost pushed her thoughts away. But they forced their way to the front of her mind, staving off her desire to sleep.

She felt her hand creep up to her neck as she thought of the fangs she saw in Leo's smile. The unease of not knowing if or when he intended to feed made her shiver beneath the covers. Her only experience with the subject of vampiric feedings was whatever she had seen during the attack on her home. Chalices weren't turning up dead, however, at least not from anything she'd heard, and all of this care given to her seemed to paint a better picture than random vampire attacks. But for something that she knew could kill, had killed…And yet, the thought of Leo made her thoughts twist like a storm in her head.

‘I need to sleep!’ she yelled in her thoughts, trying to push everything out of her mind. 

She closed her eyes and focused on the crackling of the fire as she felt her consciousness wane.

Chapter Text

When Corrin awoke, it was to the sound of light knock at her door and her name being called out.

“Lady Corrin? Are you awake?”

Corrin realized it sounded like Felicia’s voice, but couldn’t seem to will herself out of bed. Covering her face with her blanket, she heard as her door opened and two sets of footsteps approached her bed. 

She heard Felicia whisper, “Should we wake her?”

An unfamiliar voice responded, “Well, we have to get her presentable for Lord Leo. Besides, it is past midday.”

Corrin groaned as she rolled over, pulling the sheets from her eyes, though keeping her mouth and nose covered.

“Ah! Lady Corrin! So sorry to wake you!” Felicia was the closest to her bed. “We did not want to intrude, but you’ve slept for quite some time now…We brought you some tea and food.”

Corrin blinked slowly as she processed everything up to that point. She took a deep sigh and pulled the blankets from her body as she sat up, her eyes still fluttering shut occasionally. 

“Good morning, M’lady. I am Flora, Felicia’s twin sister. I have also been tasked with looking after you. I look forward to working for you.”

Corrin looked up to see a blue-haired woman who looked like the aforementioned woman, yet seemed much more tidy and put together. Corin nodded groggily before her eyes shut again, “Nice to…meet…you…”

A soft chuckle was heard before Corrin’s eyes shot open as she felt ice cold water running down her back, causing her to stand up quickly.

“My apologies, ma’am. But we are to get you cleaned up in a timely manner,” Flora told her.

Corrin spoke through gritted teeth, “Of course. It's no problem.”

After taking some small bites of the food they'd brought, the two of them helped Corrin clean up, cleaning her body with washrags so as not to submerge her stitches. While everything stung initially, it soon was replaced with her being tempted to take a nap. After her maids decided she was cleaned up enough, they dried her off and helped her get dressed.

The two twins carried over a dress they'd retrieved from her closet, and did their best to help Corrin into it. Felicia brushed through Corrin’s hair as Flora looked over her, her face focused. Finally, Corrin's hair was being tugged and pulled into a half up style. ‘ They do like showing my neck…,’ Corrin thought to herself.

While she preferred it down, Flora insisted it be worn up, with only Corrin's bangs hanging around her face. After the two felt satisfied that Corrin looked presentable enough, Flora left the room to find Jakob while Felicia stayed. 

“Do you know what he wants? Prince Leo, I mean,” Corrin asked.

“No, M'lady. I'm sorry,” Felicia replied. 

Corrin nodded in silence as they waited for Jakob. When he did arrive, Corrin was escorted through the halls, trying hard to remember the paths they were taking. If she wanted to get to the point of moving around freely, she’d have to know her way around. As they made turn after turn, it all started to blend together, perhaps it had been intentional. They did have enemies after all.

Finally they arrived, with Jakob rushing ahead telling the guards of their arrival. As Corrin made her way to the doorway, it was opened for her as she was ushered inside. As she entered, it seemed to be a lounge, most everything covered in some variation of gold, violet, or crystal, from the table and chairs, to the couches, and even the fabrics adorning the giant windows and rugs. At a smaller table nearby one of the smaller of the windows sat Leo. He hadn’t seemed to notice her entrance as he looked outside. Corrin simply stood still, mesmerized by how, while he certainly was dressed to fit the part, something about him set him apart from the regal surroundings around them.

Corrin felt a slight blush after Felicia announced their arrival, prompting Leo to start slightly before standing to face them. He made his way over to Corrin, holding his hand up, asking for hers, to which she placed her hand in his before he led her over to the table, pulling her chair out for her and pushing it in as she sat. He sat across from her and looked over to the Familiars who he simply nodded once to, prompting them to leave.

As if sensing Corrin’s nervousness, he smiled softly toward her, “They will be back. Simply bringing some refreshments.”

Corrin nodded to him as she brought her hands together on her lap, beginning to fiddle with her fingers, “I, um, thank you…For the care they gave me.”

“Ah, yes. How are you doing now? Your Familiars informed me when they had finished tending to you. A…vampire fight, was it? Should I be worried?” he asked, amused.

Corrin laughed softly. “Oh definitely. I think I can take you,” she said with a smile.

Leo returned her smile, “Hm, I’ll be sure to keep my guard up.”

Before they could continue, the Familiars returned, Jakob bringing over some sort of tea for Corrin, and Leo’s bringing him a separate drink. Corrin felt a bit squeamish at the thought of what might be in it, so elected to ignore it. 

She hesitated to take a drink, unsure of what etiquette might be required in this situation. She tried to look for Jakob or Felicia, but they were too far across the room to be able to ask silently. Noticing her hesitance, Leo broke the silence, “After you. When we are alone together, please give no thought to formalities.”

Corrin felt uneasy but went ahead and lifted her cup, taking a drink. It was a bit bitter for her liking, but the warmth of the liquid brought her some relief. After lowering the cup, she began to move her thumbs along the side nervously, “If we’re being honest, I'm not sure I know the first thing about the social rules here.”

“No, I'd imagine not,” he replied. He took a drink from his own cup, his fangs visibly longer when he pulled it away to set it down, making Corrin’s breath hitch. Either not noticing or pretending not to, he continued, “Your Familiars will take care to teach you the formalities of your new station.”

“And what does that station involve?” 

“Well, it can vary depending on who's Chalice you are. Since you're a prince's Chalice you will find yourself a bit more in the thick of things. Speaking of which…” He seemed to hesitate before speaking again, “There will be a ball held soon. It's to introduce the new Chalices, but really it's just an excuse for the nobles to have a pissing contest with each other.”

“And I suppose I…. we are expected to be present?” Corrin tightened her grip around her cup.

“Unfortunately. Ordinarily, I slip out after things begin. However, most of the nobles don't believe the rumors spreading about my selecting a Chalice and some are looking to…,” he paused, a frown making its way onto his face. He looked back up to Corrin softening his gaze, “Nevermind that. Your Familiars will take care to catch you up to speed. I will also aid you. Unless, of course, you have slept on your decision and are having second thoughts.”

Corrin shook her head slightly, caught off guard. She looked down to her tea as she thought over the idea. She had argued with herself in her head over this very idea many times as she rode here, and even up until she told him she accepted. She looked back up at him as he took another drink, and felt a slight warmth make its way to her face. The idea of being fed on did not appeal to her, but something about the thought of leaving Leo made her feel a pang of sorrow course through her. She still felt that pull she had felt when she had first met his gaze. “Of course not, My Prince. Although-,” Corrin paused, debating whether or not she should continue. She rubbed her thumbs together on her cup, looking at them as she avoided his gaze, “On the matter of being your Chalice. I know that entails… Er, that is to say…the feeding part…”

Corrin chanced a look to Leo, noticing that he was looking at her with a smile. He reached across the table, pausing briefly before grabbing her hand in his own, turning it over, her palm upward. He traced his thumb over the veins in her palm, and down along her wrist before lifting her hand to his mouth, leaning over slightly, “I could now…”

Corrin felt her heart beat harder at the thought, to which she noticed Leo smile amusedly. ‘ Of course he can tell! Calm down!’ She yelled at herself in her head.

“But,” he started. “I can tell the idea is troubling you. I did not ask you to be my Chalice because I simply wanted to feed on you.”

“You don't want to feed on me? Then why-”

“I didn't say that. There is something about your blo-… Well, let's just say, I would like to. However, I'd also like to think I'm above behaving like an animal.” He looked over her hand again, before letting go of it, “I said before I do not wish to harm you. When you are ready, we can speak of it again.”

Corrin's eyes widened, unsure of how to process what he had said. Why had he chosen her then, if not to feed. She couldn't think of any other qualities that could possibly make her stand out, let alone to a prince.

“However,” he continued, “do be aware, that in doing things this way it does open up the possibility of some… annoyances. Please try to remain accompanied.”

Corrin dreaded to think of the possible ending to the situation his warning created in her mind. She was in a castle full of vampires, and as she had both been warned and seen first hand, not all of them were civil. Her brow furrowed, “How does feeding change that?”

Not immediately answering, his gaze looked into hers, as if she were a puzzle he was trying to unravel. Finally he spoke, “You will learn later. Now, onto more important matters. Is your room to your liking?”

“Of course! I didn’t know they made rooms so big…"

–

As time passed while Leo was asking Corrin how she fared with her arrangements, if there were anything she needed to feel more comfortable and the like, eventually one of Leo’s familiars came up beside them.

“Apologies, M’lord,” they said before leaning over to Leo, whispering something in his ear, prompting the prince to nod.

Leo turned his attention back to Corrin, “It seems I have some matters to attend to.” He stood, reaching his hand out prompting Corrin to place hers in his as she stood. He kissed her hand before he spoke again, “I enjoyed this time with you.” He walked her across the lounge to Jakob before turning to speak to her, “Please, excuse me.” And with that, Leo left.

As Corrin watched the door close behind him, she stood silent for a moment before facing Jakob, “Well… What now?”

Jakob thought a moment before noticing everything still on the table, “Well, M’lady, we could begin your lessons.”

Corrin followed his gaze to the table. Leo had told her she shouldn’t worry about formalities with him, but she wasn’t sure what those formalities even were. She’d done tougher work before, surely she could figure out the proper etiquette here. Besides, if she were to be presented with and for Leo, she didn’t want to cause him trouble or embarrass him. She walked back over to the table and turned to Jakob, “So, what first?”

–

Sometime after Jakob had begun drilling table etiquette into Corin, she started feeling sore and asked if she could return to her room for the night. After having some trouble remembering which utensils went where, she managed to give herself a small cut with a knife, and the posture instructions were making her back and side hurt. 

“I suppose we can turn in, M’lady. Besides, I need to assess your stitches,” Jakob said, standing.

They walked back to Corrin’s room, where Flora and Felicia were waiting for them. As Felicia helped Corrin out of her dress, Jakob looked over all of her wounds. He seemed pleased that the swelling and infection had seemed to go down, and cleaned everything up. 

Jakob left the room when he was finished, prompting Felicia to help Corrin into her nightgown. Corrin noticed Flora place a folded robe on the bedside table before Felicia began to speak, “Oh, M’lady. Though you should be safe here, we were meant to show you the lock on your door. Once you lock it, only a select few can open it. Mostly just us.”

Corrin looked over the lock, “A select few?”

“Yes. Your Familiars, yourself of course, and Lord Leo.”

Corrin’s eyes widened as she stared at the lock. ‘ What’s the point of the lock then?!’

Felicia continued,” But I wouldn’t worry about that! He won’t enter unless you give him permission.”

Corrin’s brow furrowed, not fully understanding why that mattered if he decided he didn’t care for her permission, but didn’t press for details.

The two twins walked over to verify if there was anything else needed from them. Corrin thanked them for their help, “Not that I can think of. Thank you again.”

“Goodnight, M’lady,” both twins said, turning to leave the room.

Corrin looked over the lock on the door, finally turning it, garnering a click as well as a small purple glow that dissipated slowly. ‘ Well that's new.’ She let out a deep sigh before turning to look at her bed. She made her way over and fell forward onto it with a groan.

She felt as though she were trapped in a tornado as her thoughts swirled around her head. She was still trying to get used to the idea that she had volunteered, that she had actually been chosen by someone, that that someone was one of the princes, but also that he wasn’t going to feed on her- at least not yet. She wasn’t quite sure what to make of all of it, but figured she wouldn’t get much out of mulling in her head about it. 

With that in mind, she made her way over to her bed. But as the time passed she found herself tossing and turning. The more she tried willing herself to sleep, the more it seemed to elude her.

Trying to lay still and bargaining to herself in her thoughts for sleep, she let out a deep sigh when it felt like nothing was working. She knew it must have been getting very late.

And then she heard a knock at her door.

Chapter Text

Corrin’s eyes shot open as she heard the light tap against her door. She hesitated to get out of her bed, unsure if she had actually heard a knock or if she had only imagined it in her tired state. Her mind wandered on who could be at her door and came up with two options that seemed most likely. The first likelihood, Jakob or Felicia forgot something or wanted to check up on her. The second option was Leo. And if it were Leo…

Corrin shook her head at the thought. He had told her he wouldn't feed on her until she was ready, but she was taking him at his word- something she didn't know the strength of yet.

She removed the covers from herself, stepping onto the plush rug that sat underneath her bed. As she took a step forward, she took a deep breath, making her way over to the door. She reached up for the latch that locked the door, stopping herself before turning it. With a nervous tone she asked, “Who is it?”

A moment’s silence before a reply came, “It’s Leo.”

Corrin swallowed hard. She thought surely that if she looked down she would see her heart on the floor after having jumped out of her chest, but instead she stopped her eyes on her hand holding the latch. She could tell her hand was shaking at the thought of what he could want at this hour, all of her thoughts turning to the idea of what she dreaded most, but it had to happen at some point.

Finally she turned the latch and opened the door slowly, only slightly, to peak around the edge. She saw Leo who nodded his head politely before he spoke, “May I come in?”

Corrin’s eyes widened slightly as she processed his question. It was late, surely most of the castle was asleep at this hour, and yet here he was asking for entrance into her room. Despite her hesitance, she knew this is what she had signed herself up for, and opened the door further, “Of course.”

He entered her room and looked around as she moved further back in the room, his eyes only stopping as they made their way over her. She noticed him raise a brow as he looked at her, to which she realized she hadn’t put on the robe that had been laid out for her. Her eyes wide, she turned to rush to the nightstand when she felt a hand on her wrist. 

“It’s fine, I won’t be here long,” Leo said as he moved his hand from her wrist to her hand. 

“Y-yes, Your Highness…,” she said, turning to face him again, though avoiding his eyes as she wrapped her arms around herself.

“I wanted to speak more about earlier-” he stopped himself. As Corrin looked up at him he took a step closer, leaning closer to her, “Actually, that’s a lie. I… I felt like I needed to come see you.”

Corrin looked up at him, trying to read his expression. She wanted to think that her own would be as hard to read, but she could feel the warmth as it spread throughout her face, throughout her entire body as he closed their proximity. With a quiet voice she managed to speak, “When you say need?”

Leo smiled softly at her as he raised his hand, brushing her hair behind her ear as he had the night she arrived, his touch still as gentle as it had been, only this time his hand lingered before he moved it under her chin, lifting her face as he brought his closer to hers, “What do you think I need?” 

Corrin didn’t answer, barely able to process the question that had been asked of her. She wanted to breathe, but couldn’t seem to remember how. She lowered her eyes from his to the fangs that hid behind his lips. Her body moving on its own, she took a few steps back from him, only to realize that she had positioned her back toward the table and she felt her leg bump the side, her hands reaching behind her to hold onto the edge, “Apologies, Prince Leo. I mean no offense but-”

She stopped as she saw him take a step. Quietly, he approached, towering over her again as she grasped onto the table. He looked over her completely, before he placed one of his hands around her waist, bringing his face back to hers. “You know,” he smirked, showing a fang, before moving his lips to her ear, lowering his voice as he whispered, “I don’t think you understand what you’ve gotten yourself into.”

She felt a shiver course through her body, but tried to keep her head up, though she knew he could surely tell how her heart raced beneath him. Trying to keep her head high and her voice steady, she spoke, “I understand what I signed up for, My Prince.”

“Do you?” He asked before moving back, his face mere inches away from hers again as he leaned over her. She saw something different in his eyes, nothing like the calming gaze she'd seen before. Something fiercer lingered now, something feral that struck her with fear, and yet she was drawn to it still. 

He brushed her cheek, his hand lingering as he moved it slowly from her cheek to her neck, rubbing his thumb along it, lifting her jaw to tilt her head. She took deep breaths as his hand moved again, snaking its way into her hair, gripping it, as his other hand found its way around her waist, stopping as it rested against her lower back. 

Her gaze was locked on him as his eyes flickered towards her neck for a brief moment, “You said it yourself, Corrin. The night we met.”

Her breath hadn't steadied, and neither had her voice, “Said what?”

He smiled at her, leaning back down to her ear, “You will be mine.”

She swallowed hard as she closed her eyes. She could feel her body tremble as his lips brushed slowly along her neck, followed by the feeling of them being pressed against her skin. They were soft, and surprisingly warm, causing her to gasp when they were replaced by the feel of his fangs running lightly down her neck. Her hands let go of the table, moving to grasp at his shirt as she managed a weak plea, “Leo, please-”

After saying his name she felt a sharp sting as his fangs sank into her neck. She let out a pained cry, her hands making a feeble attempt to push him away, but his hold on her seemed like iron. She gasped for air as the pain filled every inch of her, unable to move, unable to think. 

As she felt her blood leave her body, his grip on her tightened, pulling her closer to his body until he was lifting her up against him, knocking over the table as he moved her back against the wall, pinning her there. Still pressing against her, he lifted her leg over his waist, running his hand up her thigh as it held it in place, his hand snaking under her bandages to grip into her wounded flesh making her cry out.

The room around her spun, the only solid thing, the only constant grounding her, was Leo. The pain becoming too much as it echoed through her, she felt her muscles begin to give out, causing his grip on her only growing tighter. When she felt as though she would finally fall into the encroaching darkness, she felt a wave of relief as he pulled his fangs from her neck, looking over her with a passionate hunger.

Blood ran down from his mouth as he panted quietly, his tongue running slowly across one of his fangs. He leaned his face in front of hers again, his hand moving from her hair to her neck as he lifted her face, “All mine.”

She closed her eyes before feeling him drop her to the floor. She let out a sharp cry as she fell against her healing wounds, the bruises still prevalent. Laying on the floor shakily she opened her eyes as she breathed hard, looking up she wondered why he had stopped. 

He stood across the room now, his back to her. She tried to push herself up when she faintly heard her name called out. It wasn't Leo's voice she'd heard, yet it sounded familiar. She noticed he seemed to be holding something, yet could tell what it was.

“L-Leo..,”Corrin stammered out. “What are you-”

His head jerked up before turning slowly. More blood covered his face now, his eyes no longer recognizable as he turned to her dropping what he held. Corrin watched with her eyes agape as he dropped her mother to ground, falling the same way she had before, only this time she called out for Corrin to run. The room no longer hers, but instead transformed into the abandoned building she had been in nights prior. As she looked at him again, he leapt for her.

With a gasp Corrin sat up in her bed, covered in sweat and panting. She brushed her hair out of her face and looked around, it was still late out. As she looked over her room, nothing seemed any different, everything where it had been, the table still standing where it should be, and her door still locked. She moved her hand to her neck, expecting to feel some sort of wound, but only found her skin, smooth and unbroken. 

Trying to steady her breathing, she covered her face with her hands and forced herself to take slow, steady breaths until she calmed down. She removed the covers from herself as her legs swung over the side of the bed, feeling the plush rug, just as she had in her dream. Grabbing the robe and pulling it over herself, she made her way over to the chair that sat in front of the hearth. 

She watched the fire as it danced around, her thoughts going back to her nightmare, each time feeling the pain of his bite. 

‘ Just….a dream…’

She wondered if that was what it would be like when the time came, which did nothing to abate her fear. She knew what she was signing up for, and while her chooser seemed to be patient, she was sure that patience would only last so long. 

She brought her feet up into the chair as she pulled the robe across her chest tighter. Looking at the bed, she let out a deep sigh knowing getting back into it would be pointless. She thought of the pendant that hung on the wall to call for her Familiars, but what would she tell them that wouldn't make her seem childish.

She moved the chair to have a better view of the door and the balcony entrance while staying by the fire, and resigned herself to her fate of restlessness for the night.

--

As morning finally rolled around, Corrin awoke to her shoulder being shaken. Her eyes bolting open as she jerked awake, her head met with Felicia’s, both of them crying out in pain and grabbing the spots.

“I'm so sorry, Felicia! Are you alright?” 

Felicia groaned softly before responding, “It's alright, M'lady. It was my fault, I shouldn't have startled you.”

“No, no. I just…I didn't sleep too well last night…Anyway, sorry again.”

“Are you alright, M'lady? Trouble sleeping? Would you like a tonic for that?”

“I'm alright. Just some…bad dreams. I'll be fine,” Corrin stood from her chair.

“Ahh. I would get nightmares when I arrived as well. Being surrounded by vampires'll do that to ya. But I hear it's not as bad as it seems… The whole biting thing, I mean. I've heard it's actually quite enjoyable,” Felicia tried turning her face to hide the slight redness forming.

Corrin raised a brow at her, “Enjoyable?”

Felicia kept her gaze away, “J-just from what I've heard from others. I-I’ve never been bitten, but they say it's very…. Well, we don't have Chalices retire very often.”

Corrin scoffed slightly, “Well I've only ever seen the negative side of it. I have trouble picturing that.”

“I was also afraid when I arrived. My mother had been killed by a vampire as well, prompting me and Flora to volunteer ourselves for the protection of our village. But, we've been treated with nothing but kindness since arriving, and I have no reason to doubt what any of the Chalices have said of their experiences.”

Corrin looked at her, “I'm sorry to hear about your mother…”

Felicia smiled nervously, “Oh, it's alright, M'lady. Please don't let me ruin your morning! Ah! I almost forgot! I'm sorry to have come into your room, but I knocked and when you didn't answer, I got worried. Prince Leo wanted to meet with you!” 

Corrin's heart skipped a beat at the thought of seeing Leo after her dream last night, but nodded, allowing herself to be at the whim of Felicia's care. 

After Corrin seemed to be ready, Felicia let out a sigh as she looked over Corrin, “I'm not as good at putting outfits together as Flora, but she said she didn't feel well…”

Corrin looked over herself in the mirror, tilting her head slightly in confusion, “What do you mean? I think it looks great! I'm not big into big flashy outfits anyway, I'm used to just wearing my field clothes, so this is more than enough!”

Felicia smiled at her before making sure Corrin’s hair was acceptable, “Alright. You should be all set!”

Corrin followed Felicia out into the hallway, beginning to recognize some of the paths taken when they took a new turn. As they did so, Felicia stopped abruptly.

Corrin caught herself before she walked into Felicia, “Are you alright?”

“I forgot I was supposed to tell Jakob to have something prepared for this meeting! Ah- The prince is going to be so upset with me!”

“Can you go and tell him before we get there?”

“But then you’ll be even later!”

“I’m sure it will be fine.” Corrin placed her hand on Felicia’s shoulder, “You run and tell him quickly. I’ll wait right here. If I go with you I’ll only slow you down.”

“I shouldn’t leave you alone, M’lady! I-”

“I’ll be fine, promise. I don’t want you to get into trouble.”

“But I’ll be in even more trouble if I left you alone and something happened,” Felicia pouted.

Corrin smiled at her, “It can’t be too far. I won’t move an inch!”

Felicia didn’t respond, seeming to debate the idea in her head. Corrin knew she should stay with her Familiar, but also knew that Felicia would get her task accomplished much more quickly with Corrin trailing behind her trying to keep up. As Felicia’s face scrunched in thought, finally she sighed and nodded, “Please, M’lady, I’ll be right back! I’m sorry!”

And with that, Felicia took off running in the direction they had come from. Corrin looked around the hall she had been left in. As with most other things in the castle, the ashen stone walls were covered in black and various shades of violet, hints of silver or gold adorning different objects. This hallway had the monotonousness broken up by rather large stained glass windows depicting various flowers and scenes. As she looked over them, mesmerized, she started when a voice spoke near her.

“Good day, My Lady.”

As Corrin jumped, she turned her head to face the man who stood behind her. She hadn't seen him before. His thin eyes stared at her, intrigued, as she tried to stand as defensively as she could without it being obvious. She nodded slowly, “Good day.”

“The windows are beautiful, aren’t they? It seems beauty attracts beauty.”

Corrin took a slight step back from the man, though her shoe gave her away and it clacked against the stoned floor. 

A sly grin made its way onto the man’s face, “I don't believe I've seen you around before. A new Familiar, perhaps?”

Corrin wanted to reply, but was interrupted as the man closed the gap between them.

Grabbing her hand and bringing it up to place a kiss on it, Corrin noticed his fangs and tried glancing for Felicia, or anybody nearby, but to no avail. As he stood over her, he moved his face closer to hers, “Surely. If you were a Chalice you'd be marked by now, but I don't smell a scent on you. No one would have enough restraint to not get a taste.” 

Corrin remembered her conversation with Leo yesterday, ‘ Do be aware, that in doing things this way it does open up the possibility of some…annoyances. Please try to stay accompanied.’ She tried to step back instinctually, but every movement she made, he mimicked. As his face grew closer to her neck, she felt his beard brushing against her. Her voice caught in her throat as she tried to speak, the close proximity caused her mind to flash to the night she was pinned to a tree, quietly waiting as her pursuers looked for her. 

He stood upright, but did not add any distance between them, “I can show you how enjoyable being a Chalice is.” 

“Actually…I really must be going. I am expected by the-,” Corrin mumbled out.

“Ssh, it's alright. After it's over, you'll beg for more,” he said as he lifted her chin, his other hand grabbing onto her wrist.

“No, I'm-”

His grip tightened as she tried pulling back. He smiled slyly at her, “You deserve better than being a mere servant. I can elevate your status- give you anything you desire. Just for a mere taste-” He let his words fade out as he began baring his fangs, lowering his face to her neck. 

Corrin’s breath hitched as she tried to speak, the panic beginning to set in as she tried another feeble attempt to pull away. ‘ If only I had Mother’s dagger.’  She closed her eyes and braced herself for a pierce through her skin, but as she felt his breath on her, a voice yelled out.

“Nichol! Just what do you think you're doing?”

They both turned their heads to the voice, Corrin letting out a sigh of relief as she recognized the owner. The man pulled away from her and lowered his head as he spoke, “Prince Leo. I was simply greeting a new Familiar.”

Leo glared at him before giving a lazy wave of his hand, prompting the man to lift his head, “Perhaps you've forgotten, Nichol, but we have standards in this castle. Something a knight of your status would do well to remember.”

“Yes, My Lord.”

“And to encroach on a royal Chalice, no less.”

Nichol looked taken aback, “But, My Lord, Prince Xander did not choose a Chalice. Surely, there must be a mixup! She is not marked! She bears no crest!”

Leo approached him, his head high, “If you were one to show up to events properly on time you would know she is my Chalice. And I do not appreciate you being so close to what is mine.”

Nichol lowered himself down on one knee, keeping his head low, “My apologies, Sire. I did not know. Your scent was not on her-”

“It would be in your best interest to remember your place. Stay away from her. Now, begone.”

“Yes, My Lord.”

And with that, Corrin watched as the man rose and briskly left. She turned her attention to Leo as he made his way to her, grabbing her hand, “Are you alright, Corrin?”

She hadn't noticed she was shaking until he touched her. She only mustered a slow nod in response, but while she remembered her nightmare she had a hard time remembering the fear she had felt when he stood here in front of her. He turned over her hand, gently running his own along her wrists where she had just been gripped. His face was hard for her to read, while she wondered if she saw concern in his eyes, she could definitely see the anger as he clenched his teeth and furrowed his brow.

“What are you doing alone?” He asked abruptly. 

“I-”

“Lady Corrin! I'm sorry I took so long, I- Lord Leo!” Felicia stopped her run when she noticed the prince and gave him a deep curtsey.

“Felicia. Why is Corrin-”

“It was my fault!” Corrin interjected. “I asked Felicia to run back to my room to grab a light shawl for me. I insisted she go alone so I wouldn't slow her down. I did not want to keep you waiting, Prince Leo.” Corrin caught Felicia's gaze, her own eyes silently telling her Familiar to agree while Leo wasn't looking.

As Felicia came out of her curtsey, she nodded, “Y-yes. I couldn't find one, M'lady, my apologies. I would have kept looking but did not want to leave you alone too long! My deepest apologies, Prince Leo. I-”

“Leave us, Felicia. I will take her from here,” Leo said with a wave of his hand.

“Yes, Your Highness,” Felicia replied as she gave a less dramatic curtsey before turning to leave.

The silence was heavy as Corrin braced for whatever came next. She wasn't sure if Leo would be upset with her, or what that would entail, but was also glad that he showed up when he did.

After a few moments, Leo turned his attention to Corrin, his eyes looking over her as her hand was still in his. With a shake of his head he sighed, “I ask you to be careful just yesterday and already you find yourself in trouble. Please, follow me.”

Corrin looked away ashamedly as she began to follow him. What would have happened had Leo not shown up? Well, she could guess that, but what would that have meant for her? What was the ‘being marked’ and scent thing about? She wanted to ask, but did not feel it was the time nor had she fully separated this Leo from the one in her dream.

Finally he stopped in front of a large doorway. He turned to look at her before pushing one of the doors open and allowing her to walk through. Following behind her, the door shut behind them. 

Corrin looked around in awe. They were surrounded by various flowers and plants, all of which were kept in pristine flower beds made with various designs that laid along a white stone path that twisted and turned, only being interrupted by the occasional statue or small fountain, “What a beautiful garden.”

“It is nothing compared to the castle’s actual garden. I suppose I claimed this space for myself, but I come here quite often. Less stuffy than the library, and easier to hide from my siblings.”

“Oh right, you have three siblings, right?”

“Yes. You've met Xander. And then there are my two sisters, Camilla and Elise. I'm sure you will meet them in due time. Actually, I'm sure you won't have a choice in the matter. They can be… a bit overbearing,” Leo said, giving a nervous smile.

Corrin continued to look around, her eyes going from flower to flower, “I've never seen so many of these! If we couldn't eat it, nobody would really grow it. They're so beautiful!”

Leo followed next to her as she looked around. Eventually, she rested on a circular stone wall that held flowers of its own in its center, and found herself struggling to meet Leo's gaze, “I really am sorry, Your Highness. I did not mean to put myself in any kind of danger.”

Leo scoffed, “You've no need to apologize. Nichol knows better than to harass anyone in the castle, Chalice or not. I only wish you had heeded my warning of staying accompanied.”

“He mentioned…. your scent… being on me. What does that mean?” She asked, finally looking up to meet his eyes.

“I had mentioned to you that by choosing to wait on feeding, it could bring some complications. If I were to feed on you, my scent would be embedded in you, and while there would be nothing stopping another from feeding on you, most would not dare touch another’s Chalice- let alone one of the royals. Their punishment would most assuredly be dea-,” he stopped himself before he continued. “Regardless, once word gets out that you have not received a mark from me, they will do what they can to steal you from me. As the younger prince, many do what they can to undermine me at any turn. Please keep your guard up.”

Corrin nodded but was unsure of how far others would go now that word would spread. She knew she was the one who could fix this, “So, if I were to just tell you to mark me…?”

“No. I will know when you are sincere. I will not unless you are ready, truly ready.”

“But if it is easier-”

“No. I would like to earn your trust, not force it.”

Corrin opened her mouth to debate it, but decided against it, instead only agreeing silently. 

Leo sighed, “Actually, this is all why I asked to meet with you today.”

Corrin hadn’t noticed him sitting stiffly until he relaxed as he reached behind himself. He picked up a box, setting it upon his lap as he looked back up to her. He didn’t open it immediately, instead he adjusted his posture as he turned back to her, “Corrin, have you still not changed your mind? On being my Chalice? Particularly now, knowing that others will try to take you.”

Corrin shook her head, “No, I haven’t.”

A hint of a smile formed on Leo’s lips as he opened the box on his lap, “Then it is customary for each Chalice to wear an item from their…proprietor.” He lifted, what seemed to her, a black headband from the box and held it up, “May I?” She lowered her head, allowing him to place it in her hair. She realized it would match the one he wore, though his was thinner. She had expected it to be cold and painful to wear, but it fit surprisingly well. 

“Thank you-”

“Ah, but another thing. While this will in no way replace an actual mark,” he pulled another item out of the box. A necklace, small and dark silver, with the mark of the Dusk off center, adorned with purple gemstones. Leo placed it in her hands, “While you probably recognize the seal, the gemstones signify me personally. Each royal may give a special seal to those they choose, and while each one uses purple, the shade tells of which royal the person swears loyalty. These stones are infused with our blood, giving them each a unique color. My brother’s is the darkest, with my two sisters having lighter shades. This one is mine.”

“It seems too much.”

Leo smiled at her, “No. The necklace is purely selfish, I’m afraid.”

Corrin raised a brow at him, “In what way?”

“Well, if the gemstones alone do not ward off others, there is an enchantment. Should anyone try to…become too familiar with your blood…I will know. I told you I do not intend to let anyone harm you.”

Corrin was surprised, but she knew little of what magic existed. Seeing her lock glow made her question if there were such works at play, and now she knew they were. She lifted up the necklace, running her thumbs over the gemstones, when her brow furrowed, “This color is not replicable?”

“No.”

“I've seen this same…”

Before she could ask anymore questions they were interrupted as they heard someone enter. She recognized both Jakob and another Familiar who had been in the lounge yesterday as they brought in small snacks, placing them on the small table she had seen earlier. She stood when prompted by Leo and walked over with him, sitting with her ankles crossed. 

She looked over the treats sat in front of her. Still not quite used to such strange sweet foods, wondering if she could ask her Familiars for something simple when she returned to her room. She looked over the necklace still in her hand and decided that it would be in her best interest, especially since she'd already had the displeasure of someone trying to feed on her. She lifted it, clasping it behind her neck, as she tried to remember where she had seen the same gems.

“-it off.”

She blinked, “Sorry? I didn't quite…”

Leo set down his cup, “I assume you've been told of your door lock. This necklace works similarly, though more limited. Only you and anyone with my blood, so myself and anyone wearing my gemstones, may take it off. Do be careful when and where you remove it.”

Corrin nodded, “I will.” She grabbed the cup that sat in front of her, bracing herself for the bitterness as she took a drink, but to her surprise it was actually quite nice. She lowered the cup, looking into it. ‘ Definitely still tea.’

“Is something wrong?” Leo asked, concerned.

“No. It just tasted…different than last time. It’s good,” she smiled softly.

She couldn't tell for sure, but she thought she saw Leo glance toward Jakob and smile into his own cup.

Chapter Text

A few days had passed since Corrin had seen Leo, having had tea in his private garden with him gifting her both her headband and necklace. Walking back to her room with him that night went by too fast as his arm was linked with hers, and he told her about some of the stained windows and paintings. As they passed by members of his court in the halls, whispers and gasps could be heard and daggers felt from the stares targeted toward them. 

While she had still been picturing her nightmare, it melted away at his touch, and the protection and patience he seemed eager to give her. His lingering touch as he brushed her hair behind her ear, as he had done many times, left her heart fluttering and her mind confused. This was amplified after they had parted ways- returning to her room that night she found a small box on her bed. She sat, moving it onto her lap as she lifted the top. Inside she found a note that rested on top of something wrapped in silken fabric.

She unfolded the note and looked it over-

Corrin,

Due to the nature of this item, I had your Familiars set it somewhere you would find it. While I ask that you only use this in the most dire of circumstances, I'd like to help ease any fears you have concerning your new home here in the castle by giving you an opportunity to not have to rely on others and protect yourself, should the situation arise. 

I also ask that if you feel the need…  Even if the situation should involve me, please do not hesitate. If any such action occurred from me, it would be the most fitting punishment. 

Let only yourself know of its whereabouts.

For your safety,

Leo

P.S. 

Please use care when handling. No use in starting a frenzy.

Corrin set down the letter next to her and lifted the contents of the box, moving away the fabric until she saw a small dagger in a black sheath with silver engravings, no bigger than her hand. She lifted it from the fabric, grabbed the hilt and unsheathed it slowly, the candlelight glinting off of the beautiful silver as she moved it around, examining it. The hilt was simple, black with a silver cross-guard and the Dusk's symbol, but the blade was engraved with linework that mimicked many of the paintings she'd seen through the halls. Not meant for any heavy combat, but would get the job done in a pinch. 

She placed it back in the sheath and looked at the letter before looking at the headband that sat on her bedside table. She debated taking off her necklace, but wondered if wearing it might help give her enough peace of mind to sleep. With a sigh, she'd laid down, gripping the dagger in her hand. As she clenched it to her chest, she felt a tear run down her face, memories of the last dagger she held flooding her mind. Rolling over she curled up and drifted to sleep.

In the days since, she'd found it hard to escape her Familiars who took teaching her the formalities of the court as a life or death situation. She'd been getting better, but she did slip up occasionally.

And while she was remembering her way around, she hadn't been to any part of the castle that she felt eager to sneak off to in search of answers, the sheathed dagger pressing against her thigh reminding her of why she was here- but she'd need to play her part well. She'd also need to avoid the trying nobles. While none had been courageous enough to bother her after seeing her necklace or while she was escorted, she could still see their stares. Of course, it had only been select individuals, but she couldn't chance the others having any secret ideas. While she felt overconfident with the dagger, she couldn't risk being on her own quite yet.

And yet, anytime she thought of how she hadn’t seen Leo in days, she felt an ache in her chest. She wondered if he was alright- there was so much fighting going on lately between the clans. Had he been called out to fight? Surely he would have notified her. But then again, did he really have any obligation to her? She was his to do with as he pleased, if she allowed it, not the other way around. Perhaps he didn’t want to push boundaries and risk anything since she wasn’t ready for him to feed on her yet. But what would happen if he did go out to fight and didn’t return? What would that mean for her? 

Often shaking her head to rid herself of those thoughts, she tried to stay focused on where she was now. She could speculate all she wanted but really all she could do was wait. He could just be busy- he was a prince, after all.

In the meantime, she would do her best to both not raise suspicion as well as not embarrass both herself and Leo as his Chalice, though she wondered if she was doing just that by not allowing him a mark. But when she’d think of that, she’d find herself running her fingers along her necklace, feeling the gemstones, knowing she still had some kind of mark from him, a bit of safety.

As a few more days passed, the monotony of her lessons did not ease the dreariness as each passing footstep and each knock made her heart skip a beat- only to be met with disappointment. She grew both more worried for Leo as well as for herself as she began dancing lessons for the upcoming ball. She hadn’t ever danced before, having found herself always sitting on the sidelines during any kind of festivals back home- no matter how much Silas had begged her to dance with him she'd find some way to avoid it.

‘ Silas….’ She sometimes found herself wondering if he had somehow made it out of the village alive. She never did have the opportunity to go back through town after passing out and waking up somewhere with the vampire who had saved her. She didn’t know who did or didn’t make it out of the attack, but she knew the vampire that had ambushed them made it out, so the chances were slim that Silas did as well with how crazed the attackers were. All the more reason to focus.

“I’m sorry, Jakob. I didn’t catch the last instruction,” Corrin said, smiling nervously.

“Really, M’lady, you must pay attention. You will be dancing with Prince Leo at the ball, and should he allow it, other nobles and knights.”

“I know, I just… I’m sorry. I’ve never really danced before.”

Jakob sighed, “Well, you can’t be as bad as Felicia.”

“Hey!” Felicia yelled from across the room at the piano. 

Corrin smiled before sighing, “All right, let’s go again.” 

She placed her hands where she was told to on Jakob, with him placing his on her. When the music started he began to lead her into the steps, and while she stumbled a bit, they were making it through the song without falling over…until the last few steps when she caught her foot on his leg and fell back, landing on the floor.

“Lady Corrin! Are you alright?” Jakob leaned over to her.

Corrin closed her eyes and sighed deeply, “Yes. I… I think I’d like to take a break today.”

“I’m sorry, I should have caught you. I don’t know why I didn’t.”

“It’s alright. It was my fault,” Corrin said as she took Jakob’s outstretched hand, standing. A knock at the door grabbed all of their attention when a young girl entered, curtseying. 

She seemed almost frail, with how small she seemed. Her brown hair was held up quite messily, her face was spotted with freckles, and while she did not dress like many of the Familiars Corrin had seen so far, Corrin wondered if she wasn’t one. When the girl finally spoke, her voice was soft-spoken, “Sorry for interruptin’. I’ve been sent to bring Miss Corrin with me.”

“Might I ask where?” Jakob inquired.

The girl shook her head, “Royal decree.”

Corrin’s brow furrowed in confusion before she looked over to Jakob, looking for his reaction. Surely, he wouldn’t let someone unknown take her without her Familiars, let alone when he didn’t know where. It seemed as though they had become inseparable, with one of her Familiars always being at her side, excluding when she slept, and that just so happened to usually be Jakob.

Jakob stared at the girl a moment before sighing and letting go of the hand he still held, “Lady Corrin, this is Mozu. You have no need to worry with her, but….” He leaned in to whisper, “Should you find yourself amongst any…interesting characters, one in particular, please use caution.”

With that, he and Felicia gave their respectful bows before Jakob lifted his hand toward Mozu, prompting Corrin to follow the girl. Curiously, Corrin looked over the girl as they walked, still trying to figure out the station held by her escort when she noticed a small bracelet on her wrist. Looking at it more intensely Corrin noticed the sigil she’d become so accustomed to, including- “Your bracelet!”

“Huh?” Mozu asked as she lifted her wrist, “This ol’ thing?”

“The gemstones on it, are they the…”

Mozu smiled, “Oh, that. Yes. They are a royal mark.”

Corrin looked at the bracelet as Mozu held her wrist up. They were not the same color as her own, ‘ Not Leo’s.’ She seemed almost relieved, ‘So then…’ She tried remembering what Leo had told her, looking over the color it was darker than Leo’s, “Xander’s?”

Mozu nodded, “Yup!”

Corrin’s eyes widened slightly, “Are you also a Chalice?”

Waving her hands in front of her, Mozu laughed nervously, “Oh, no! At least….not yet anyway… I am merely his head Familiar, though I don’t do a lot of his Familiar work. Guess he just liked my cookin’, and put me in charge of the kitchen. Sometimes his retainer helps, but she scares the Familiars a lot. She did teach me all the vampire recipes though!”

Corrin was taken aback, “The vampires need chefs?”

Mozu chuckled, “Ya know, I thought the same thing when I arrived. I’m sure you’ll see in due time, but for now, we’re here.”

Corrin recognized a similar pattern on the doors as the lounge she had been to previously and when they opened, her suspicion proved correct, though this lounge was much larger than the previous, and much more extravagant. Walking in behind Mozu, she noticed there were quite many already present with some sitting, and others standing. 

“Wait here, please,” Mozu asked her before walking over to one of the sitting persons and whispering in their ear.

As they stood and turned, Corrin recognized Prince Xander, immediately her eyes widened before she curtsied and lowered her head, “Your Highness!”

As Corrin lifted her head slightly she noticed him smile before he spoke, “Ah! She is here. Wonderful! Please, join us.”

Corrin stood slowly, hesitant to walk over. With the realization that Xander was here, she scanned the others in the room to see if Leo was present, but with a wave of disappointment she found she recognized no one else. Before she could make it fully to the sofas, one of the two remaining on them stood. 

Corrin didn’t think she’d seen anyone so beautiful before as they turned around, aside from her mother. A woman with long, lavender hair, and who was clearly not ashamed with her assets with how she wore the cut in the top part of the bodice on her dress. Before Corrin could come to a stop, the woman made her way to her, standing over Corrin with a serious look as her eyes seemed to scan over the smaller of the two. 

Corrin wasn’t quite sure what was going on. She worried she had done something wrong, or perhaps Prince Xander decided to not let Prince Leo have his choice after all. But where would this woman fit in?

She felt her heart pounding after what seemed like an eternity of the larger woman staring at her.

“Is this the one, then? The one who has enraptured my sweet brother?” The woman finally asked. 

‘ Her…brother?’ Corrin kept her head low as the silence began to weigh on her.

After receiving a confirming response from Xander, the woman’s whole demeanor changed, she held her arms out and pulled Corrin in for a hug, “Oh this poor dear, I think I made her nervous! Probably scared her half to death! I forget how fragile these humans can be.”

Corrin's eyes were wide as she struggled to breathe in the embrace, unsure of exactly what was going on.

“Camilla! She’s not yet met you, if anything is going to scare her half to death, that would be it,” Corrin could barely hear Xander call out.

“Oh!” The woman let go of her, “Of course! How informal of me. I am Princess Camilla! I’ve heard quite a bit about you since I’ve returned.”

Managing to calm her breath after being smothered, Corrin’s head tilted slightly, “Then you’re Leo’s…er…Prince Leo’s-”

“Yes! I am his older sister! And this is-”

Corrin started as a girl jumped out from behind Camilla. Her hair seemed just as long, if not longer, than Camilla’s, but matched Leo and Xander’s hair in color. Wearing it in pigtails with ribbons and bows, Corrin could wager a guess on her identity.

“And I’m Elise! The littlest sister! I’m so excited to meet you! I can’t believe Leo finally picked someone! Even I have a Chalice.”

Camilla smiled at her, “Yes, I think we were all quite shocked, even if Xander gave him a bit of a hard time from the sounds of it. I was quite eager to meet the person who could get Leo to liven up!”

“What do you mean?” Corrin asked.

Camilla sighed dramatically, “He’s just been so gloomy lately, quite a downer if you ask me. I'd returned just in time to see him off before he left, he had much more of a jump in his step. Seemed eager to get back as well- Oh! And look at you, they even have matching headbands- how absolutely adorable! I knew Leo had it in him-”

“Camilla!” Xander interjected. 

“Ah, but, maybe he just needed some fresh blood to lighten up! About time he tasted human blood.”

Trying to ignore the blush she could feel making its way onto her face, Corrin wasn’t sure if she should divulge that he hadn’t bitten her yet, especially in a room of people who could easily make a claim against him- more so than a knight could.

“No, sister,” Elise chimed in, pointing at Corrin’s neck.

The three royals looked at Corrin’s necklace, seeming to fully take in Leo’s gemstones that had their place amongst it. 

Camilla sighed again, reaching her hand out toward Corrin’s neck, prompting a small glow from the gemstones. Camilla placed her head in one of her hands, “He just has to make things harder for himself. What am I to do with that boy?” She shook her head as she looked over toward Xander, walking back over to sit.

‘So much for keeping the secret…’

Elise grabbed Corrin’s hand, pulling her over with her as she bounced back to the couches they had been lounging on, prompting Corrin to join them.

Corrin sat, placing her hands on her lap and intertwining her fingers in a bid to stop herself from fidgeting. She glanced at the three others who were all standing in various positions around the room, their faces all covered. Something about them made her think of the man who had brought her here, making her wonder if she'd run into him again. 

Xander scoffed, “No worries about them, dear Chalice. They are merely our retainers.”

Camilla smiled, “They've been offered a seat, but have all chosen to stand there and skulk. How boring.”

‘ Royal retainers, huh… I wonder,’ Corrin thought as she looked over them again. Sure enough, since she knew what to look for, each one had gemstones somewhere on their person, each one wearing a different shade. Just as with Mozu, though, none matched the shade she wore, though one did match Mozu's. Not wanting to stare too long she returned her attention to the royals who sat around her. ‘Ah right. The royals… I'm sitting with the royalty…’

Corrin adjusted her posture nervously, trying to remember everything Jakob had been teaching her, “If I may speak-”

“Well of course, dear!” Camilla interrupted.

Corrin smiled sheepishly, “Um, might I ask why I was summoned?”

“Did we interrupt something?” Elise asked.

“No, of course not!” Corrin insisted.

Xander gave a quick laugh, “I believe her Familiars are currently charged with training her for the upcoming ball. The one where she will be representing our dear brother. Everyone will be quite eager to see the one to catch his eye.”

“Oh, heavens! How is that going?” Camilla inquired.

Corrin could feel her cheeks warm as she looked anywhere but toward the royals. She couldn't help but stammer her words, “W-well…It goes?” 

Elise nodded knowingly, “Those dances can be quite tricky! Maybe you need a better teacher?”

Corrin shook her head, “No! I mean…my Familiars are amazing. I just…I've never danced before. Never any reason to in the fields.”

“A human and she's a commoner, how cute! Forbidden love,” Camilla said with a hand on her cheek as she gazed off.

“W-what?! Where would you get that idea?” Corrin questioned.

Camilla smiled slyly, her fangs visible, “Oh honey, you two probably don't even realize it yourselves yet. Especially Leo, he can be quite hard-headed.”

“We've barely even spent time together! We've only met with each other a handful of times. I-”

Camilla placed a finger on Corrin's mouth to silence her, “Calm, dear Corrin. It was merely a jest.” Camilla smiled again, “Though, I can't recall any of us giving such nice gifts to even our retainers so soon, let alone- Hm, I shouldn't.”

“Yes, Camilla. You've said quite a lot haven't you. You're going to confuse the poor girl.” Xander crossed his arms as he shook his head, “Not to mention how much trouble you're going to be giving Leo, teasing her in such a way.”

“Perhaps if I can get him to feed on her-”

“Camilla.”

“But I think I know the perfect plant! Wraith something-or-other. In small doses it acts as-”

“Camilla!”

“But it's so hard to find. No one's seen it in any usable quantity since the valley clan-”

Xander sighed heavily.

As Camilla and Xander went back and forth Elise moved closer to Corrin, “So, it seems Leo's pretty excited you're here. I'm surprised he picked a Chalice at all, even to forget the order of selecting… Anyway, I hope we can be great friends!”

Corrin smiled softly as she nodded to Elise. ‘ What a weird twist of fate. Getting attacked by vampires to having a conversation about being friends with vampiric royalty…’

“So!” Camilla turned back to Corrin, “I want to know all about you! How'd you end up here?”

“Well…” Corrin took a deep breath, unsure where to even start. “I don't remember much of my life before arriving in the village my mother and I lived in. We had a small farm, would go to town to sell and buy things. My mother also did a lot of work as a healer for the village folk- she was pretty good at it.”

“Was?” Camilla asked.

Corrin looked down, “Yes. My village found itself under a vampire attack recently. She… did not make it out. There was a vampire there, though, for some reason he saved me and tended to my wounds. I told him I'd volunteer, it had been on my mind anyway due to rough growing seasons. He brought me here, but I haven't seen him since before I made it to the castle. Although, I wonder-” Corrin stopped herself. She was starting to think out loud.

“What is it, dear?”

Corrin smiled, “Oh, nothing, sorry. I just never got his name and he was gone abruptly.”

“Well, if you ever find him, we'll be sure to give him quite the reward for bringing someone to cheer up Leo!” Camilla smiled.

“But, yeah… Then I was selected by Leo and now I'm here.”

Xander laughed, “Well, you were almost selected by me. I feel like that's worth noting.”

Corrin smiled nervously, “Yes, of course, Your Highness.”

Xander smiled to her, “It's alright. Honestly, I share my sister's sentiment. I am glad you chose Leo. Who knows if he ever would have chosen again.”

Corrin's hands fidgeted slightly, “Speaking of Leo… Have you heard from him?”

Xander's smile faded as he hesitated to answer, “Bluntly, no. However, he should return soon. ”

Camilla smiled slyly, “Perhaps we could trigger her little charm there. That should make him more hasty.”

Corrin's eyes widened, but Xander interjected, “I might entertain the idea if I hadn't been the one to send him so abruptly. I hadn't given any thought to his new Chalice. His choice to not leave his retainer with her did amuse me, though.”

‘ So he does have a retainer…’

Camilla smirked, “I wouldn't be too sure about that, brother.”

“I'm sure he'll be back soon, so don't worry about him! He's pretty strong! And even if he got into a pickle, he's pretty smart. I'm sure he could figure his way out of anything!” Elise held Corrin's hand and smiled.

“We could expedite things a bit for Leo while he's gone-” Camilla started before Xander stopped her.

“We are not coercing him to feed on her, Camilla!”

“Oh, brother, why would I ever suggest such a thing!” She said with an amused eye roll. “No, I simply meant perhaps we could vet out some of the Thorns and find her a good teacher.”

Corrin's brow raised, “A teacher from the Thorns? Why would I need army training?”

“It's good for a Chalice to know how to defend themselves. Especially when we decide to bring them during our excursions,” Camilla explained.

“Like my retainer!” Elise said happily as she looked toward one of the figures skulking nearby, “Effie over there technically volunteered as a Thorn, but is also a Chalice.”

Xander piped in, “We value having strong, capable Chalices. While some of the nobles and knights prefer one-note Chalices, a royal Chalice should not be caught off guard.”

“You know, there's a new fellow making a name for himself. Quite cute, I had thought to add him to my arsenal, but perhaps we could make use of him,” Camilla proposed.

“Hm, we should let Leo decide, but I will look into him,” Xander countered.

“It's too bad, really. The boy does smell so good. Similar to how you smell, dear Corrin. I really don't know how Leo holds himself back,” Camilla said as she leaned closer to Corrin, looking her over. “I'm of half a mind to steal you for myself. However…that pesky little charm- I wonder…”

Corrin swallowed as Camilla drew closer. She could feel her heart pounding as Camilla’s face was mere inches from her own, her fangs visible. Corrin chanced a glance to Xander, who watched amused before rolling his eyes, and then to the retainers in her sight, all unmoving.  No one was going to intervene. 

Corrin could feel the dagger she had hidden on her thigh, burning to be used, but would it really get that far? She thought of Leo telling her of the necklace- if anyone tried to bite her, he would know, but he wasn't here. Was that why they sent him away? 

Camilla reached her hand up to Corrin's chin, tilting her face to the side. Camilla seemed to take in the gemstones on Corrin's neck, hesitating, her eyes flashing toward the direction of the door. With a sly smile she bared her fangs, bringing them closer to Corrin's neck, but before they could make any contact the door flung open.

“Lord Xander, I've word from Prince Leo!”

Camilla leaned back with a wide smile, “Ah. See, brother, I knew he wouldn't just leave her.”

As Corrin felt her breath return, she looked over to see a man kneeling in the doorway. As he lifted his head, his face was covered but his white hair stood out from under his hood, and under his hair was an eye cover. Eyes wide she glanced to his wrist, and there, on his wristband, sat gemstones that perfectly matched the color of her own. She gasped before muttering, “You…”

The man made eye contact with Corrin before turning his attention to Xander, who had stood and turned to face the door.

With a nod, Xander waved over one of the retainers before turning to Corrin, “Peri here will escort you to your room.”

Still looking at the man in the doorway, Corrin noticed his brow furrow slightly after Xander spoke. 

Camilla gasped, “B-brother. Maybe we should send my Beruka. No need to bother Peri with such a minor task! Please, I insist.”

Xander’s eyes met Camilla’s as he seemed to mull over something in his thoughts. He looked to Peri, then Corrin, before letting out a sigh, “Very well.”

Standing, she turned to look at the retainer approaching her, now able to see them better. ‘ A woman.’ Under the woman’s hood, Corrin could see short blue hair, though she kept her face covered like the other retainers. Corrin nodded toward Xander and Camilla, thanking them and giving a curtsey. 

“And Corrin,” Xander began. “You may be pleased to know that with Leo’s absence, we have decided to move back the ball. You should have no problem with dancing by then.”

“Yes, Your Highness,” Corrin replied before turning to walk out of the room. As she walked past the man, still kneeling, their eyes met until Xander drew his attention away. 

Once into the hall, Beruka took the lead as Corrin dragged behind. Her head hammered as she tried to make sense of everything. Leo was indeed gone, Camilla tried to bite her, she’d just seen the man who had saved her, and her suspicions were right in that he had matching gemstones- linking him to Leo. While she wanted to say something, she also wanted to take the chance to escape from the other royals’ clutches.

‘ Did she know…’ Corrin wondered about Camilla, thinking of her glance to the door before trying to bite her. Sighing, she looked ahead at the woman leading her through the halls. Corrin couldn’t make out much of her from behind, but she could see a wristguard similar to the one she’d seen before, except the gemstones on this were much more lavender in color, nearly matching Camilla’s hair. ‘ Makes sense…’

“If I may.. You’re Camilla’s retainer?” Corrin asked.

After a moment of silence, she received a nod in reply.

“Are you a Chalice as well? Like Princess Elise’s?”

Beruka’s head shook.

“A Familiar?”

Shake.

“Thorn?”

Nod.

Taking the hint, Corrin continued following in silence. She recognized her familiar part of the castle as they neared her room, and when they made it to her door, she nodded politely to the retainer, “Thank you.”

With only a small nod in reply, the woman turned on her heel and began to walk off. Corrin opened her door and stepped into her room, locking the door slowly behind her as it shut. 

“Lady Corrin! You’re in one piece!” Felicia called out.

“Was I not supposed to be?”

“Well, we didn’t know where you were or who you were with…”

As Felicia helped Corrin wind down for the night and Jakob prepared her some tea, Corrin recounted what had happened after she had left them.

“You were very lucky Lady Camilla managed to swap Peri for Beruka,” Jakob said.

“Why?” 

“Miss Peri can be… Well, she doesn’t quite value human life the same way many of the others do. Why Prince Xander keeps her around is a mystery to me. She’s been barred from having any further Familiars or Chalices for quite some time.”

Deciding to wind down, Corrin dismissed her Familiars, electing to, instead, pull a chair closer to her hearth, watching the small fire housed in it dance around. She brought her knees up as she rested her head on them. Keeping one arm wrapped around her legs, she brought her free hand up, fidgeting with her necklace as she tried to lift the weight from her mind of the day's happenings- dancing, failing at dancing, almost getting bitten…again, seeing that man again…

Absent-mindedly, she unclasped the necklace, bringing it in front of her face as she ran her thumb over the stones. ‘ I wonder if he’s alright.’

With a sigh she closed her eyes.

Chapter Text

As her eyes fluttered open, Corrin groaned as she felt pain in her neck, turning her head with the realization that she had fallen asleep in her chair rather than her bed. ‘ I shouldn’t make this a habit…’

She put her feet on the floor, wincing at the cold stone, the fire in the hearth having long gone out. She looked out toward the balcony, unsure of what time it was, but it offered her no answers as the days had entered their perpetual night. She stood, arching her back and placing her hands behind her neck as she stretched out, only to realize her neck was bare. Her eyes widened as she moved back to look around frantically. ‘ Where is it?!”

Moving the chair, her eyes scanned the floor before she dropped to her knees, looking underneath anything she could. Hearing the door to her closet open, her head shot up, watching as Flora stepped out.

“Oh my, My Lady. Are you alright?” Flora asked, holding clothes over her arm.

“My necklace… I had it when I fell asleep, I'm sure of it. Have you seen it?”

Flora did not answer immediately, her gaze unwavering though she seemed lost in thought. Suddenly, a smile spread across her lips, though it didn't seem to reach her eyes, “Yes, Lady Corrin, I have it here. I entered to wake you, but found it on the ground. I figured I could put it together with your outfit for the day. You really must take care of your things.”

With a sigh of relief, Corrin stood as Flora approached her with her clothing. She looked eagerly to her Familiar who looked toward the floor, her eyes darting around before she finally reached into a pocket in her dress, pulling out Corrin's necklace and placing it into Corrin’s hand. 

“Thank you, Flora. You really gave me a scare. Maybe you could wake me next time. I still find myself a bit on edge occasionally, “Corrin smiled sheepishly.

“Of course, My Lady. I’ll try to remember,” Flora said, turning to begin getting Corrin ready.

After she was ready, Corrin began imagining ways to get out of any of her daily instruction, unsure if any of her begging or excuses would work, and when she thought of meeting the royal siblings the day prior, she felt she needed to stick it out, no matter how much she dreaded it. 

“Say Flora, are you good at these dances?” Corrin asked as they made their ways through the halls. She thought she’d seen a slight hint of a blush on her Familiar’s face.

“I… well… I know them, but many Familiars do not get much opportunity to join in festivities.”

“Did you have any trouble learning them?”

“Not at all. Jakob was a wonderful teacher.” 

“Ah. So I am the problem.”

They continued in silence until they arrived. As Corrin entered to see Jakob and Felicia, Flora had all but vanished before Corrin could say words of thanks or farewell to her, being left only in surprise at the maid’s clandestine departure.

“Are you ready for today’s lesson, Lady Corrin?” Jakob grabbed her attention.

“If I say no, do I get to go back to my room?”

“I’m afraid not.”

Corrin let out a heavy sigh, “Well, alright then…”

–

After hours of stumbling and toe-stepping, Corrin felt exhausted as her mind tore between focusing on the dances she was to learn and wondering about Leo. No matter how hard she sought to fight it, she couldn’t stop her mind from returning to him. Having wondered if it were merely for self preservation, after all what would happen to her if he didn’t return, but she also felt saddened at the thought of not seeing him again. 

“Again,” Corrin demanded.

“Are you sure, Lady Corrin? Perhaps we should break for tea or-”

“No, I-... I’m sorry, Jakob. Just this one last time. You must be tired of me,” Corrin steadied herself as she placed her hands around him and with a sigh she straightened her posture and nodded.

“I would never tire of you. But as you wish.”

After a nod from Jakob, Felicia began the music again. Corrin looked up to Jakob, trying to focus on his face. Perhaps if she could think of something else, she’d manage to get through it. She hadn’t truly looked at her Familiar this intensely before. Her eyes made their way over his features, his hair silky, his skin smooth, his eyes vibrant, though they didn’t seem as harsh as they were whenever Corrin noticed him dealing with others. He was actually quite… 

‘ Handsome?...’ 

As the thought crossed Corrin’s mind she found herself suddenly nervous, shaking her head to rid herself of the thought, forgetting that she had been holding onto, and was being held onto by, Jakob mid dance, her feet misstepping, causing them to tumble over.

Corrin landed hard on the floor with the extra weight of the man she held landing on top of her. 

After a moment of realization, they both began to apologize profusely as they separated, Jakob standing and offering his hand to help her up, though Corrin stayed sitting on the ground. She lifted one of her knees, resting her arm on it before laying her head on it. She shook her head against her arm, “I just don’t know what’s wrong with me. I’m sorry for wasting your time, Jakob.”

“M’lady…,” Jakob paused as he knelt beside her. He hesitated but placed a hand on her shoulder, “I assure you, you are no waste of time-”

“I must be driving you nuts,” Corrin interrupted with a nervous laugh.

“Well… If we’re being honest then,” Jakob paused again, waiting for her to look up at him. “The answer is still the same. You know me, M’lady. I do not hide my feelings on the incompetence of others.”

“Maybe I should just see if it’s not too late to transfer to Familiars. Maybe I’m just not cut out for being a royal Chalice. I can’t even get a simple dance right.”

“M’lady, I have to disagree. I-”

“Perhaps I can help?” Both of their heads shot up at the sound of a quiet laugh, and there, in the doorway, stood Leo, leaning against the frame, his arms crossed across his chest.

Corrin blinked, her mouth fell as her mind tried to wrap itself around both the shock and relief she felt to see Leo. Was she even seeing properly or was her mind playing tricks on her? Had she hit her head when she fell? Maybe she had, that would explain her heart suddenly racing, the melting of her thoughts.

“Of course, Your Highness,” Jakob said as he stood to bow.

Corrin watched as Leo made his way over, standing over her, “Unless, of course, you’d like to stay on the floor.”

She felt her face warm as she realized she was still sitting on the ground- on the ground in the presence of the prince, no less! Leo reached his hand out to help her stand, which she accepted, avoiding his gaze as she did so, “How much of that did you see?”

“Which answer would make you feel better?” He asked, smiling.

Corrin closed her eyes as she shook her head in embarrassment. She debated still retiring to her room for the day, but for as much as she worried for him, she didn’t want to risk not seeing Leo for so long again. Resigning herself to her embarrassing fate, she turned her body to face his before he closed the space between them. Swallowing quietly at their proximity, her breath caught when his hands found their way onto her body. 

Remembering they were dancing, she lifted her hands to place them in the correct positions, though hesitated to touch him.

“You can touch me. I won’t bite,” he said with an amused grin.

Scoffing at the absurdity, she managed to place her hands on him. Checking to make sure her feet were in the right position, she took a deep breath. ‘ Now to embarrass myself to him directly.’

“Ready?”

She nodded to him in response and he gently pulled her closer to himself. She couldn’t bring herself to meet his gaze, she hadn’t been this close to him before, if she didn’t count when he had brushed her hair back as she tried not to collapse on him the night she arrived. Even then, this was much closer than he had been previously.

‘ I have to focus! I can’t mess this up!’

He nodded to Jakob, who had taken over the piano playing, and the music started. Leo began his lead on the steps and Corrin did her best to follow, though as she tried to watch her movements she kept misstepping. 

Leo stopped, prompting Jakob to stop playing, and Corrin wondered if he’d changed his mind.

“You know,” Leo started. “It might help if you could look at me.”

Corrin took another deep breath, finally looking up to meet Leo’s eyes, with him giving another nod and the music started again. She wanted to look away, but as her head began to drift away, he used a hand to move her face back.

“Focus on me, not on what you’re doing,” he said quietly under the music.

“How can I focus on anything when you’re this close?” She whispered back with a pout.

He smiled at her, “Do I dazzle you so?”

She didn’t answer as her eyes began to look away from him.

With a soft chuckle he leaned closer to her ear to whisper, “Just try.”

She rolled her eyes, but tried keeping her focus on him. He looked as beautiful as ever, which didn’t help her, only serving to make her feel even more out of place. ‘ Beautiful?’

Continuing to speak quietly, Leo urged her slightly closer, “My apologies for not showing for awhile.”

“A while?!” Corrin scoffed.

Leo replied amused, “Miss me?”

Corrin thought a moment before she responded, “I don’t know.”

“Well, regardless, I’m sorry my absence was so abrupt, I was not meant to be gone so long,” he paused to spin her, catching her in a closer position than before. 

She gasped in surprise as he held her, though not giving her a moment to think on it too much, he started the steps again.

“If I may ask, where were you?”

Leo looked into her eyes, not answering immediately, “Whether I’d like to or not, I have duties I must attend to as prince.” 

They danced in silence for a moment, before Corrin started to mess her steps up again. Leo shook his head before speaking again, “I trust your injuries have healed?”

Corrin nodded, “Yes. Jakob thinks there will be some scarring from the initial patch-up I’d had, but everything is closed and healing.”

“Ah, yes. You were rescued, is that right?”

“Yes.”

“I doubt you’ve needed any rescuing here in the castle since I left.”

Corrin shook her head, feeling the dagger she had hidden against her skin. While she hadn’t had any trouble since he gave her her necklace, she didn’t doubt she would be willing to use the dagger should the need arise. Then her thoughts turned to the previous days, “Well… That’s not entirely correct? I’m not really sure.”

Lost in her thoughts she looked with confusion when Leo stopped, pulling back and kissing her hand. 

“Congratulations. You did it.”

Corrin tilted her head before remembering what they’d been doing and realizing the music stopped. Realization set in, her eyes widening, “I didn’t fall over?” She looked over to Felicia and Jakob.

Felicia ran over to hug her, “I knew you would get it!”

Corrin smiled at the other woman and then looked at Leo who had a smirk as he looked back. 

“Shall we try the next dance?” Jakob inquired.

“Actually,” Leo began, “I think I might steal your charge. If you don’t mind, of course.”

Felicia let go of Corrin and lowered her head, “Of course not, Your Highness.”

Leo held his hand out for Corrin, with her accepting the gesture. He looked over to her Familiars, “No worries, though she may require tea in the garden. But please do not feel rushed.” With that, he turned, leading her out into the hallway where he let go of her hand and placed his arms behind his back as they walked.

She followed next to him as they made their way through the halls, unsure of where they were going after he led her in a direction she hadn’t been allowed to go yet. 

Leo broke the silence first, “I assume you received the box I left for you… With the gift.”

Corrin nodded.

“And you’re unsure if you’ve had any further…incidents? How can one be unsure?”

Corrin grimaced, “Well, I… Your sister was…” She hesitated, unsure how to word her experience. Would he be upset if she accidentally insulted his family should she not word her thoughts properly?

“Ah… I understand. Other than my family?”

“No.”

“Good.”

They continued to walk in silence. Corrin wasn’t sure what to say to him. She still had a million questions she wanted to ask, but also another million questions she couldn’t ask, but she also knew he had no obligation to answer any of them regardless, “Prince Leo…”

“We’re here,” he said before opening a door for her.

She stepped in to see a huge room covered in shelf after shelf, and each shelf covered in book after book. Her eyes darted around in awe, never having seen anything like it. 

“I apologize for leaving so abruptly, and before you’d been given more access to the castle. I do not wish for your time to be dull.”

“I didn’t even know this many books existed. What’s there to even write so much about?”

“Well, there are medicines, animals, history, magic. Then there’s the tales that people create.”

“Tales? People write down silly bedtime stories?”

“Well, yes many are written down. But, many create fantastical stories simply for fun. Personally, I prefer to stick to more knowledgeable texts, though many find those false tales amusing and a nice distraction- or so I’ve heard.”

“Why are we here?”

“As I said. I don’t want you to find yourself bored to death. Should you wish to come here, any time, please feel free. Anything at all that catches your eye, this is as much yours as mine now. Though, I do ask that you take care not to destroy anything. Some of these texts are quite old.”

She smiled slightly, “Don’t trust a farm girl to care for books?”

“It’s not that. But sometimes it’s easy to forget how fragile some things can be,” he said, turning his gaze to meet hers, a slight intensity as he looked at her.

Feeling herself holding her breath, she cleared her throat softly and she turned her head, “Right. I’ll uh… I’ll be careful. Does this place get a lot of foot traffic?” She walked over to one of the shelves and ran her hand along some of the books on it. They seemed to be books on medicines derived from plants if she was guessing correctly.

“Depends. Usually, no. On occasion, Xander finds himself looking through the more militaristic texts, and my sisters come from time to time, but typically I am the main occupant, aside from the Familiars assigned to look after this area- the other nobles having their own libraries, or needing permission to enter here.”

Corrin felt herself choke on nothing, moving her arm up to cover her resulting cough, “Is this a private royal area then?”

“It is,” he replied, raising a brow. “Are you alright?”

“My apologies, Your Highness-”

“Please, just Leo when we are alone like this.”

“I… can’t make any promises.”

A soft laugh, “I understand. Formalities are so ingrained, they can be hard to drop. But, regardless, are you? Alright, I mean.”

Corrin pat her chest, “Y-yes. I just… You’re telling me I can just come to this private royal space whenever I want, even when other nobles can’t.”

“Correct?” He looked at her seemingly as if she had sprouted eight arms.

“But… why?”

“Why not? I can allow my Chalice wherever I please. Who’s going to tell me no? Even if Xander disapproved, which he wouldn’t, I could surely convince him on this matter.” He made his way over to her, standing over her as her back met the bookshelf behind her. He took her hand gently, softening his gaze, “Anything you desire, you need only ask of me.”

Desire…

She looked up at him in awe, more awe than any of these books could give her. His eyes vibrant in the glowing candlelight, a sense of something deeper in them that she couldn’t place. ‘ What do I desire?’  She continued to look over his face, stopping at his lips, soft and inviting despite the daggers held behind them. ‘ What am I even thinking? Why am I even…’

“But, for now, let me show you around,” he said, breaking the silence as he pulled her hand gently for her to follow. “Here are the medicinal herb books, very fast-paced, edge-of-your-seat reading here.”

Corrin smiled as she followed him.

“And here are-”

—-

After some time looking around the library, as she knew it was called now, Leo had escorted her to his garden for tea, assuring her along the way that she could freely go to any of the places he'd taken her thus far should she wish.

While she felt elated at not being confined to her room and learning spaces, the sudden trust in being personally allowed into such private areas threw her for a loop. 

“I really did not intend for you to be trapped in your room like a prisoner,” he had told her. “If only I had left my retainer.”

“Your retainer…”

“Yes. I trust no one more. I’m sure you two will meet officially soon.”

Corrin thought of the man who had interrupted Camilla the day prior. She was certain he had been the same man that had brought her here, the man’s gemstones having matched her own perfectly. Meet soon? What would she even say to him? 

She would have to think on it later- for now, she followed Leo as they walked.

As they sat together now, in the garden with their drinks, not much seemed to be said.

Corrin grimaced as she looked around. She wanted to break the silence that was hanging over them, but there weren't many topics of small-talk here. Moving her thumb along her cup, she looked at her plate of snacks. ‘Hm.’ Chancing a glance, she noticed he only had a single small snack and his own cup, “So… What are you drinking in there anyway? I-if you don’t mind me asking!”

Leo laughed softly, “Well, do you really want to know?”

“I… sure?”

“In the company of humans, we tend to keep our… food choices in a more palatable and presentable manner. Hence this unassuming tea cup, and this rather plain-looking cake.”

“I mean, is it so hard to guess what it is?” 

“I suppose not,” he replied with a smile.

“Is it really, just a cup of… well…”

“If you'd like to see, be my guest,” he held his cup up, holding it in her direction.

Corrin looked at the cup, unsure, before reaching her hand out to take it. True, if someone didn't know, they wouldn't assume anything amiss, and for those that do, no squeamishness to be had with such normal presentation. As she tilted the cup, however, she saw the, definitely-thicker-than-tea, red liquid inside. She felt a hard swallow as her brow furrowed, setting the cup down gently. She cleared her throat as softly as she could.

He grabbed his cup, “Perhaps I shouldn’t have shown you.”

“No, no. I mean, I knew what was probably in there. Is it… that is to say, well, human?” She asked sheepishly.

He smirked, amused, “No.”

Corrin tilted her head slightly, “Animal?”

“Yes.”

“But I thought the Nightshades donated their blood freely.”

He sighed as he lowered his cup back to the table. He looked at his cup a moment before lifting his gaze to Corrin, as if in thought before closing his eyes and shaking his head slightly. When they reopened, he sighed softly again before he spoke, “Yes, they do. However, I choose to not use their…services.”

“I’m sorry if I upset you, my prince.”

“Leo. And no, it’s fine. I just… I’m not accustomed to talking about myself, I prefer to keep my privacy. Usually, that is. Please, ask anything you’d like.”

“I didn’t mean to seem like I was prying. Honestly, it just seemed too quiet,” Corrin said as she began to lift her shoulders, trying to retreat into herself. 

“Then maybe I should question you,” he said amusedly, bringing his hands together and leaning his elbows onto the table. 

“Of course, Your Highn-... Leo.”

He smiled at her before tilting his head slightly, “Hm. What to ask my dearest Chalice first.” 

As he seemed to mull it over, Corrin took a nervous sip of her tea, unsure what he might ask, but also wondering what there was to be nervous about. She had nothing to hide. 

“You know,” he began. “I’ve heard a great deal of how you’ve ended up here from my retainer, from my siblings, from your Familiars, but never directly. Why did you volunteer?”

Corrin took a deep breath, she hadn’t given much thought that others would tell him about her, but it made sense, “To help my village.”

“And why did you choose the Chalices?”

“Honestly, I didn’t expect to get chosen, especially with how beaten up I was. I was even having second thoughts and considered saying no if anyone actually did want me and change to Familiars. But then I-,” Corrin stopped herself. ‘What am I saying?! Stop it!’

“And then you?”

“N-nothing!”

He raised his brow as she flustered, raising her cup to take a quick drink. A slow smirk formed on his lips. 

“Anyway! Before I had, er, had my doubts, I figured a Chalice’s compensation would give the most that I could send to any survivors… However few they may be. I was told the children my mother died to protect were safe, at least.”

Leo didn’t speak, instead placing his hand on Corrin’s, offering a gentle squeeze. She looked at their hands together, unmoving as they appreciated the silence. Finally, she offered a gentle smile, “Thank you, Prince Leo.”

“Of course.”

“Did you have any other questions?”

“I’d imagine you to be through with them.”

“I’m fine, Your Highness.”

He grimaced slightly at the title but ignored it, “This compensation, for being chosen, you’ve not asked for it. Why wait?”

Corrin shook her head lightly in surprise, “I, well, it hasn’t really come up naturally. Then you were gone… And there hasn’t been anything to compensate. I’ve given you nothing, I can’t ask for-”

“Corrin.”

Corrin started softly. He had yet to really use her name to her directly, let alone that firmly.

“Corrin,” he said again, softer. His eyes intense as they met hers, his hand squeezing hers again, gently but firm, “You… Corrin, you do not owe me anything.”

“But I am your Chalice. And I’ve been reminded many times now how I have yet to fulfill any of what that entails.”

He laughed, his brow furrowed, “Are you worried about what others think?”

“Is that so silly? I’m supposed to be the prince’s Chalice and my silly fear seems to cause me to embarrass you. Your family even-”

“My family…,” he looked at her hand as he ran his thumb along her skin. “If my laugh insulted you, I apologize. Your fear is not silly after what you’ve seen. It just seems so absurd, the idea of it all, that we should be forced to do things to make others feel better. Corrin, I-” He stood, pulling her hand for her to mimic him. She stood, following him as they walked toward the flowerbed nearby, sitting along the edge of the stone wall around it. 

Leo turned, plucking one of the flowers, twisting the stem between his fingers, causing the flower to spin as he looked over it. Stopping as he looked to her, his gaze met hers, unwavering, “I feel I should be honest. I’m sure you heard plenty on how “Prince Leo has never taken a Chalice”, and well, that’s true. I had no intention of ever choosing one. But when I saw you I…” His eyes closed as he composed himself, a soft sigh escaping his lips before his gaze met hers again, “When I saw you…”

Corrin could feel the blood in her face, the stammering of her heart. She knew he’d be able to tell, to sense how her heart betrayed her, to hear her lapse in breathing as she awaited his words. The only thing cooling her down was the gentle breeze from the balcony nearby.

“You’re going to be the first person to ever hear me say this but, I don’t know. I don’t know what drew me to you. But I do know,” he paused, handing her the flower in his hands. A white flower with many petals- she recalled her mother speaking of a similar flower before, a different color then, a rose. “I know that I need you near me, whether it’s as a Chalice or not. And if you decide you’d like to leave, you are no prisoner here.”

“No!” Corrin stammered. “I want to stay here, as long as you don’t tire of me.”

Leo smiled, cupping her free hand in his own, “Then please, do not feel like you owe me anything. As I said, please ask anything of me you desire, and give no mind to the nosey nobles or my over-enthusiastic siblings.”

“But I- It just wouldn’t feel right to-” Corrin’s eyes lingered on the flower she’d been given. “Please, mark me.”

“No.”

“It would solve all of these issues.”

“No. It’s not the time.”

“Then please, let me give you something. ”

“You accepting was more than enough.”

Frustration made its way onto Corrin’s face. Why did he have to be so difficult? She couldn’t ask so much from him when she was giving him nothing in return. She had willingly accepted to be his Chalice and she hadn’t even given him a drop of her blood. A drop…  

She looked at Leo before looking to the rosebush next to them and then to the flower in her hand. She twisted it around like he had, remembering when her mother had shown her the flower in the past, having pricked her finger on the thorns. Spinning it around, noticing a small thorn, and swallowing her hesitance, she quickly stabbed her finger on it, “Ow!” Deeper than she’d intended.

“Are you alright?” Leo grabbed her hand, “I’m sorry, I shouldn’t have given you one with a thorn I…” 

Looking up at him, Corrin noticed him tense as he tried to maintain his composure.

He let go of her hand, “I’m sorry I… I think I need to fetch Jakob. I’ve not really… how to politely put it…eaten? Since my return.”

“Prince Leo,” Corrin grabbed his hand, wincing as she realized she pressed her bleeding finger against his skin. “Please, let me give you at least a drop of my blood…as ‘compensation’. Something. In lieu of a mark.”

He looked at her as his composure began to melt, “I really shouldn’t, Corrin, I… It’s not just a drop, it never is.”

“Please, let me give you this. As thanks, even. I’ve got nothing else to give you in return.”

Leo closed his eyes, “You don’t owe me anything, I told you-”

“Leo.” 

Leo opened his eyes, his brow twitching as he glanced quickly to the cup that he left on the table and back to Corrin. His eyes lowering to where she held him, her blood smudging on his skin as she held his hand, “I really… I shouldn’t.”

Corrin let go of his hand to look at her finger, instead gasping as Leo grabbed it back in his own.“Are you sure, Corrin?”

Corrin nodded to him, relaxing her hand in his palm. Knowing he looked for any sign of hesitance, she willed herself to stay calm, though she knew she was poking a lion. He lifted her hand, squeezing near the puncture gently. His eyes brightened as his fangs became more visible, her blood dripping onto the stone they sat upon. He brought her hand to his mouth, she could feel his breath on her skin as it escaped his lips, moments passed as he hesitated but instead of taking her small offering from it, he turned her hand over, placing a soft kiss on the back of her hand before letting go. 

Before she could say anything, he had vanished from where he sat, now standing back at the table they had been at, his back to her. 

Corrin blinked, unsure of why he’d gone when he returned with a napkin, dabbing it against her finger, a look on his face that suggested he was finishing a bite of something. “On a napkin?! I don’t want to ruin it,” she gasped, trying to pull away.

He smiled, “I believe blood is probably the one thing the Familiars know how to get out.”

“Why didn’t you?”

“Believe me, your blood is quite… intoxicating , for lack of a better word. But if I’m going to taste it, it should be mutually enjoyable. Besides, it feels a bit like cheating.”

Corrin thought back to Felicia telling her how other Chalices enjoyed being bitten. There were many ways to enjoy something, but the way Felicia made it sound was rather- ‘ Surely not that kind of enjoyable… Right?’ Corrin thought to herself as she looked up at Leo standing over her, her hand in his as he dabbed her finger with care. ‘ But then… would that be so bad?’ She continued looking over him, his eyes gentle, his hands comforting as he held hers. ‘ What am I thinking?!’  When he finally looked at her, Corrin turned her face away, standing abruptly, “T-thank you, Your Highness.” 

She walked back over to the table, sitting, noticing the door to the garden opening. 

“Please excuse me, M’lady. Felicia and I will be taking over for Jakob. Would you like some more tea?” Flora asked as her and Felicia walked in.

“Sure, thank you.”

As the two began making their way over, Flora stopped midway, “Would you as well, Prince Leo?”

He gave her a slight nod, “Thank you.”

Flora made her way out of the room as Felicia stood next to Corrin, grabbing her cup. When Flora returned, Leo made his way over, sitting back down as Flora placed a new cup on the table for him, and as Flora turned she bumped Felicia, causing her to drop Corrin’s cup to the ground, glass shattering everywhere. 

“Oh no! I’m so sorry, M’lady!” Felicia knelt down, beginning the clean up.

Corrin got up from her chair, kneeling beside her to help, “It was just an accident, it’s alright.”

“No, I should be more careful. Please, you don’t need to subject yourself to cleaning up my messes.”

Corrin rolled her eyes, “It’s no trouble, really.”

As Corrin grabbed a napkin to clean up what little spill there was, Leo joined them, holding a plate. 

“For the glass.”

“Not the Prince, too,” Felicia groaned, embarassed. 

Leo laughed softly. 

As they finished cleaning up the glass, Corrin noticed Leo pause a moment when a soft breeze blew in, a slight furrow in his brow, seemingly miles away until she said his name causing him to shake his head before looking up. 

When they all stood, Felicia bowed and thanked them for their help before turning to speak, “Flora- oh! Where did she go? She was just here…”

“Maybe she went to get a replacement?” Corrin suggested.

“Maybe. I’ll go check on her. Thank you and sorry again, M’lady, M’lord,” Felicia turned to exit the garden, closing the door behind her.

Corrin looked over to Leo, his hair moving slightly in the breeze, his face stoic again, focused. Corrin stepped up to him, “Are you alright?”

Leo blinked, turning to her, his eyes looking over her face before he looked away forcibly, “I’m sorry. I seem to not be feeling well, suddenly.”

“I’m a bit tired myself. Perhaps it’s best if we rest for tonight. Thank you for your help today.”

“Of course. And yes, that may be best. I’m really not feeling… Please, go on ahead, I may stay here a moment for some air. Good night,” he lifted his hand, brushing her hair behind her ear. It seemed to be becoming how he said goodbye to her anymore. 

Corrin smiled at him, giving a gentle curtsey, “Good night.” 

As he lowered his hand, she thought she saw him looking at it before relaxing it at his side, giving her a smile, though it looked almost pained. 

Corrin turned, beginning to make her way out when she leaned down to pick up a rogue piece of glass, “Seemed we missed a piece.” Corrin stood, holding the glass, when her fingers slid against it, cutting her slightly, “Ah!” 

She looked at the cut on her finger and sighed. It didn’t really hurt, it was more annoying than anything. She had to stop getting glass cuts. Rolling her eyes she shrugged it off.

“Are you alright?”

“Oh… Yes, it’s just a small cut. I’m surprised I didn’t get one with the other glass. I’ll be fine.”

He didn’t respond. Turning to look behind herself, she noticed he stood still, almost too still, his hands tightened into fists, his eyes closed as he took a deep breath. “Prince Leo?”

The sound of his name seemed to stir him, his eyes opening slowly as he looked at her. Something about his gaze, fierce, feral, made her nervous. Taking a sharp inhale when their eyes met, her legs felt the burning urge to escape. 

A smirk, a fang.

“Are you alright?” she asked nervously. “Maybe I should grab Felicia. After being gone so long, I'd imagine a rest would be good for you rather than staying here longer."

He scoffed, “Good for me?” His eyes seemed to trail over her, meeting her eyes before settling lower, a glance toward her hand, toward his own hand where her blood rested on his skin, then to her neck.

Her fingers twitched as the thought of the dagger on her person flashed in her mind when he began to take steps toward her, but would she really use it on the person who gave it to her? As he grew closer, she remained unmoving- if he had decided it was time to mark her, had changed his mind, she would take it head on, but something seemed amiss in the way he carried himself, something off in the way he spoke. 

“Hm,” he muttered as he stood in front of her now with barely any width between them. His gaze pierced through her as he remained unmoving, her breath threatening to give away her trepidation. Finally, he moved, raising his hand to brush the hair from her face. As he had many times, as he had moments ago, he brushed it behind her ear, but his hand lingered, moving down the side of her face gently, his thumb running along her lips, his hand resting under her chin, “Perhaps… I haven’t been clear enough on my intentions- clear enough on my wants. Nay… my desires.”

Corrin’s brow furrowed. She swallowed hard before she tried to keep her voice strong, though it betrayed her, the shakiness breaking through, “And what is it you desire, My Prince?”

His eyes half-lidded, bore into her, “I was so stupid to turn down the treat you offered me. I would love nothing more right now, dear Corrin-” He lowered his mouth to her ear, speaking in a low, hushed tone, “-than to have you here, like this, underneath me.”

Her face felt hot, and a heat she couldn’t describe arose below her underclothes, radiating through the core of her stomach.  

His face moved lower along her jaw to her neck, his breath cool against her skin, “To finally taste what has smelled so tantalizing . To feel your skin on my lips, my fangs pressing into you- into your flesh. To taste what is mine - finally make you mine . Truly. Fully. Mine.” 

With every movement, every touch, Corrin could feel her breath become hotter with each staggered breath. Her legs wanted to quiver until she felt herself being pressed back, stepping until her back collided softly with the stone wall that stood behind her, the cold of the stone nipping at her arms and hands as she pressed herself against it- the cold of Leo's hand nipping at her neck as he moved his hand slowly, caressing her skin. 

Corrin kept her gaze locked on his face, his eyes seemed distant, though the color seemed more vibrant- almost glowing with hunger. For a moment she thought she saw his brow twitch, the vibrancy she’d grown accustomed to returning to his eyes only briefly, before it left with him tilting his head as his hand moved again.

As it moved, he grimaced as he reached the necklace that felt like it choked her now. He ran his fingers over the gemstones, a sly smile forming on his lips, “What a weak substitute.”

Corrin’s eyes widened as his hand moved along behind her neck, the gems glowing as he unclasped the necklace, and let it slide off of her skin before holding it in the palm of his hand. She heard it fall to the ground before his hand returned to her neck, softly running along it, gently tilting her head before his lips lingered over her skin. He kept his tone low, his voice still hushed, ”Has anyone told you yet how good it feels as a Chalice?” He paused a moment, “And the happier you are… How good you feel… The better you taste.”

She glaced down, watching as he seemed to take in the bare skin of her neck. Each breath he took against her skin sent a shock through her body until she felt the soft skin of his lips pressing against her. 

And then his lips parted, his tongue running along the veins that seemed to draw him in. 

She closed her eyes as her brow twitched and her breath grew heavier, each movement of his mouth on her causing the heat inside her to grow. Her hands sought him out hesitantly, the formalities of touching the prince in this scenario having not been a topic of discussion, but formalities be damned. As his hand rested below her ear, one of her hands clung to his shirt, the other winding into his hair. He raised his free arm, bracing his hand against the wall behind her as his body pressed into her, his tongue lapping at her skin, garnering a soft moan to pass from her lips.

A chill hit her neck as the warmth of his mouth was replaced with the feel of his fangs running smoothly along her neck, the sharp points making her breath catch as she quivered beneath them. Lifting his fangs from her skin and breaking free of her hold, she opened her eyes, meeting his gaze from the sides of her eyes, leaving her head turned and her neck bared. Her breathing was heavy, and her clothes felt too tight, too hot. Leo's eyes glowed brighter now as they took her in, her quivering underneath him, ready to be devoured.

“I ask you again-" He moved his lips to her ear, “if you will be mine?” 

He kept his hand against the wall, his lips making their way from her ear down her jaw, his eyes glancing up to meet hers. When their eyes met, she let out a pent up breath as she tried to remember how to speak, “Take what you desire, my prince. Mark me as yours.”

Leo smirked, his eyes filled with need. His tongue running over his fangs, he moved his mouth back to her neck, his hands running down her arms, and grabbing her wrists to lift them, bringing her bleeding hand near his mouth as he took in the scent of her blood before pinning them against the wall. His lips returned to her neck, running along her vein before he placed a trail of soft kisses on her skin, lifting his head to bare his fangs fully.

Feeling the soft kiss lift from her skin, Corrin glanced at his fangs, feeling herself shiver and letting out a soft breathy whisper, “Leo.”

Her face tightened as she waited for the feel of his fangs on her skin, the piercing before her life essence became his- or even for just the touch of his lips on her. When neither came and his grip tightened on her wrists, she opened her eyes, glancing at him. His fangs were bared, though his lips quivered and his eyes shut tight. His hands began to shake as he pulled them off of her, standing slowly, shakily. 

Looking to be in great pain, he shook his head grabbing it tightly, “No… No! Not… Like… This!” His eyes shot up at her, his breathing growing more distressed, “Corrin… I'm sorry…” 

Her mind racing to catch up, she couldn't manage any response before he turned and darted from the garden, the door slamming shut behind him. She blinked, her breath calming and her legs finally failing her as she slumped down the wall to the floor. Her mind racing as she tore her gaze from where Leo had just disappeared, a glint of light caught her eye, leading her to pick up her necklace that had been discarded, holding it in her lap. 

The door to the garden flew open with the rushing of footsteps. “Lady Corrin, are you alright?”

Corrin recognized Felicia's voice, but her mind still hadn't come out of the fog that filled it. She only ran her fingers over her necklace, content with staying put. 

A shake of her shoulder made her head shake as she looked up into Felicia's eyes, who spoke to her, “Did he hurt you M'lady? Are you okay?”

Corrin blinked at her as she processed the question. ‘ Did he hurt me? ’ “No, I'm alright… I think…” 

Felicia turned to someone standing nearby, “Flora, have Jakob bring her dinner to her room and maybe prepare her bath. I'm going to stay with her.”

Corrin turned her head to see Flora who stood straight, hands resting together near her waist as they normally did, but Corrin detected a hint of annoyance in the woman's face, her brow slightly furrowed together, her lips pursed as she looked over Corrin. She did not reply, only nodding, turning with an annoyed sigh, that was probably meant to go unheard, before she walked off.

Felicia held her hand out, gesturing for Corrin to take it. She did, standing, and took a step to follow her Familiar out of the garden. She looked down to make sure she hadn't left anything else, and noticed a small shade of blue catch her eye. She leaned down, picking it up, ‘ A flower petal?’  She kept hold of it as she walked back to her room. 

After her food and bath, she sat solemnly at the small tea table in her room as she fiddled with her headband.

“Are you alright, M'lady? You haven't said a word since the garden. You seem lost in thought. Is there anything I can do?” Felicia asked, a look of worry on her face.

Corrin tore her attention from her headband, moving her head slowly as she faced Felicia, “I'm sorry, Felicia. I don't mean to worry you. I just…” Corrin hesitated, a sigh passing from her lips as she tried her best to make sense of what had happened. She had been so easily ready to let Leo bite her, and yet he hadn't, nor did he seem himself. “I worry I may have…upset Leo.”

“He did seem in quite the hurry… But I don't think you upset him.”

“What makes you say that?”

“Well, Prince Leo doesn't really… get upset. Or he hides it well, at least. Besides, when he rushed out he told us to make sure you were alright. If he were upset with you, I don't know that he would be worried about you.”

Not saying much else, Corrin continued on her nightly routine, once again finding herself sitting by the hearth after her Familiars left. Glancing at the door she stood, walking over to her bed and pulling the flower petal she had found earlier out from under her pillow. She sat, looking it over. It was a light blue, almost white toward the bottom, with a thin purple line cutting across the white, the smell was sweet, and it had some sort of oil on it. She hadn't seen this particular type of petal before, and if memory served, she hadn't seen it anywhere in Leo's garden- though she couldn't be certain with how few times she had been in there, let alone in there and not distracted by Leo himself.

He had definitely been acting strange, having so abruptly changed his mind after his many reassurances that he would not bite her yet- and she was so easily swayed. ‘He said he wasn’t feeling well. ’ Maybe he had been hungrier than they thought, or perhaps she drew too much blood in front of him, pushing him over the edge. He hadn’t reacted quite like that when she had been bleeding the night she arrived.

‘Something’s not adding up.’  

She grabbed a book to press the flower petal into before laying down.

‘First thing tomorrow, a trip to the garden.”

Chapter Text

The morning was eerily quiet, save for the pitter patter of raindrops hitting the stone of the castle and the glass of the windows. To Corrin's surprise, it hadn't rained since she'd arrived at the castle, and she'd almost forgotten how much it calmed her.

She had awoken early, having tossed and turned through the night as visions of her encounter with Leo in the garden played over and over in her head. She sat now in a chair pulled to the entrance of her balcony as she watched the rain falling, her mind still mulling over the same event. 

He had almost bitten her, and she had been fully willing to let him do it. 

She wasn't surprised by that- she knew she'd let him mark her eventually, she knew that came with volunteering to the Chalices and she was more than thankful for his patience with her. But as the scene replayed in her head, she would have been willing to give him so much more. Maybe she was overthinking it, all of his reassurances and how he had spoken to her prior, giving her a rose, assuring her that he didn't care if he drank from her or not, but he couldn't quite tell her why he'd chosen her then, if not to be strictly his personal blood supply. 

And then there was the more pressing matter of him having such a sudden change of heart. Something wasn’t right, that much Corrin could tell, but what had made him so abruptly… ‘ Feral?’

He’d been so steadfast on waiting to mark her. Was it simply her blood that pushed him over the edge? She didn’t think it was that simple, but for now, her plan was to head to the garden as soon as her Familiars finished her morning routine. She didn’t want to cause too many questions, and while she didn’t feel any different toward Leo, it’d probably be better if she did her best to avoid him.

Which made the matter of going to his garden a bit more nerve-racking. But the only thing she had to go on was the strange petal she had found. She was certain she hadn’t seen it in the garden before. Whether it was related or not, she still found it odd that it would find its way to where they had been. 

‘ Maybe the breeze blew it in?’

Regardless, her mind was set. 

It had been two days since they’d had the incident in the garden. Disappointment filled her as she was unable to convince her Familiar’s to let her skip her scheduled lessons, and she hadn’t heard from Leo since he’d stormed out. Her lessons were getting better initially, but as her mind wandered off toward what had happened, she found her clumsiness returning. Today, she would make her case, and not take no for an answer. Perhaps she could feign being sore or melancholy. 

When her Familiars came to her room, Felicia informed her that Flora would be taking the day off as she felt a bit under the weather. Corrin hadn’t minded at all, in fact she was elated she didn’t need an excuse. She knew at least one of her Familiars would be following her around even if she had convinced them, so the fewer the better. 

After eating quickly and getting ready, Jakob excused himself to attend to other matters, leaving only Felicia with Corrin. 

“Since Jakob is busy today and Flora is sick, I don’t know that we can have your usual dance practice. Maybe I could ask Prince Leo… But he seems a bit under the weather as well,” Felicia looked concerned.

“Still not feeling well? I didn’t know vampires could get sick.”

Felicia pouted her lip a bit, “Hm, now that you mention it… Maybe he’s just tired after getting back. Only his retainer has seen him since he saw you.”

Corrin stared off toward the ground, feeling a bit guilty. Had she pushed him too far? She knew he didn’t want to bite her, maybe she had pushed him over the line he hadn’t wanted to cross.

“But let’s not fret, M’lady! What would you like to do today?”

“Well, actually…”

After some convincing, Corrin managed to get Felicia to come with her to Leo’s garden. He had, afterall, told Corrin she was free to go where she wished, and while she was still a bit uncomfortable with the idea of going into the private royal areas, she also wanted to try stretching her wings out. If she were going to be living here, after all, she may as well get used to it.

When they came upon the doors to the garden, Corrin paused before turning to Felicia, “He’s not… Leo’s not in his garden is he?”

“No one’s seen him come from his room, but I can make sure.”

Corrin smiled as she nodded, watching as Felicia knocked and made her way inside. Corrin felt nervous as she looked around the hallway, not wanting to deal with any overly confident nobles but also not quite sure how she’d face Leo right now.

When Felicia returned, she informed Corrin that the garden was indeed empty, prompting Corrin to enter. 

It seemed like no one had returned since she’d been escorted out. In the haste of what had happened, it seemed no one had even cleaned up the table. As Corrin walked over to it, she looked at the wall she had been pressed against, her hand finding its way to her necklace, running along the sides before she felt her neck, her mind wandering off. 

“Would you like me to stay with you, M’lady? Or would you prefer if I wait at the door?” Felicia’s voice drew her back.

Clearing her throat, Corrin turned to Felicia, “Maybe waiting at the door would be best. I’m still not sure if Leo is upset with me. It may be best to keep an eye out for him. I’ll only be a moment, just want to clear some thoughts.”

Felicia gave a slight bow before she turned, leaving the garden and shutting the door gently behind her. Corrin looked over the table, her snacks from the days prior still sitting there next to Leo’s cup, still full of the thick red liquid he’d shown her. She swallowed hard as she looked at it, and then noticed a bite taken out of the cake on his own plate. Now that she looked at it, it was tinted red. ‘ Do vampires eat food?’ She thought, remembering when she had been escorted by Mozu. ‘Maybe I could make my way into the kitchen.’

Saving that thought for later, she moved the chairs around, looking for any sign of anything amiss, but found nothing. Before she had left her room, she had hidden the petal she’d found in a pocket of her dress, pulling it out now as she began to make her way around, looking for a twin.

She walked throughout Leo’s garden, the pattering of the rain hitting the glass roof that covered the area only disrupted by her footsteps against the stone. After having looked at every plant she could find, none seemed to match the petal she held. With a sigh, she sat along the white stone wall that surrounded the rose bushes she’d sat next to yesterday. The rose he had given her still sitting along its edges, a drop of her blood staining the stem of the flower as well as the stonetop where they’d sat. She picked up the rose, twirling it in her hands as she was lost in her thoughts. ‘ Maybe it was my fault. I seem to be accident prone lately- a bad thing in a castle full of vampires.’ 

She laughed softly at the absurdity of her situation, leaning back to look up at the rain as it hit the roof. She sighed as she basked in the calming silence. ‘So peaceful. If only Leo were here…’

Her brow furrowed as she shook her head, “What am I thinking?” She stood ready to leave the garden when the opening to the balcony caught her eye. She walked over, avoiding stepping into the rain’s reach, looking around. What was there to even look for? She watched the rain as it fell against the stone, and onto the ground. Looking at the ground, just to the side of the balcony’s entrance, she saw a small light blue petal. Gasping she bent down, picking it up and holding next to the one she held. A match.

Looking around frantically, she didn’t see any flowers nearby that they could have come from. Looking to the balcony, she stepped out, trying to look around quickly over the edge for any source. 

‘Perhaps the main garden?”

But would she be able to go into the main garden? There was the light rain, sure, but that didn’t bother her. She hadn’t been to the main garden yet, so she was unsure if she’d be allowed there. She didn’t even know where it was, and her chances were higher of running into stray nobles if she ventured from the wing of the castle she’d gotten used to. 

Stuffing the two petals back into her pocket, she made her way back over to the garden door, quietly opening and closing it as she exited. She was surprised to not see Felicia immediately before spotting her toward the end of the hall, talking to someone.

Corrin waited patiently, chancing a glance occasionally as they spoke, but she couldn’t see much of who Felicia was talking to with their back turned to her. Only when the person turned to leave did she see the white hair under the hood and the wrist band on their wrist that she made a step. ‘It’s him. His retainer, surely!’

She tried to rush over, but he was gone by the time she made her way down the hall.

Felicia turned to Corrin, “Ah, M’lady. Sorry for not being nearby, I just had a message.” 

“Who was that?”

“Oh, uh… Nobody particularly important at all. Nope. Not at all,” Felicia said, rather unconvincingly. 

Corrin raised a brow at her, “Are you sure?”

“Mmhmm!” Felicia smiled.

Corrin’s eyes squinted at her Familiar, but she didn’t press the issue. If they didn’t want her to know, she wouldn’t get Felicia in trouble by prying. She’d seemed to cause enough trouble for everyone since she’d arrived.

“Are you done with the garden then, Lady Corrin?”

“Oh, yes. Do you think I could go to the main garden?”

“The main garden? I don't see why not but it may have to wait. Lady Camilla has requested you join her for morning tea.”

“Princess Camilla?” Corrin shifted uneasily. The last time she'd seen Camilla, the princess had tried to bite her. “Did she say why?” 

Felicia shook her head, “I'm afraid not. I'm sure we could tell her you don't feel well if you'd rather not.”

“No, no. It's alright… I think?” Corrin forced a smile before they headed off.

She wasn't sure why the eldest princess would want to see her. Did she want to try biting her again, or is she upset that Leo seems upset, or- ‘ It'll be fine. No need to be nervous.’ Corrin told herself.

They walked for quite some time before reaching a set of doors with Thorns standing on either side. Corrin recognized one of them to be Beruka, Camilla’s retainer, who nodded to Felicia before opening the door, gesturing Corrin inside the room. 

Corrin stepped forward, noticing Felicia was not following, and took a deep breath as she entered. The door shut gently behind her, and she looked around. The room was large, much larger than her own, and more beautiful than anything she'd seen in the castle thus far- the sconces, the wood floors, the tapestries, all of it. She continued looking around, noticing a raised platform with a bed on it. ‘Is this her bedroom?’ She stepped further in, “Princess Camilla?”

She heard a noise and turned toward open doors she hadn't noticed, Camilla appearing from them. “Oh, darling. So glad you made it,” the woman said as she made her way to Corrin. “Please, this way.” 

Camilla grabbed Corrin's hand as she led her through the side room and out onto her balcony which seemed to be covered in a way to stop rain, but not obstruct the view.

Camilla sat down at a small table, gesturing for Corrin to sit with her. Corrin hesitated at first, but sat across from Camilla, looking out over the view. Looking down she could see what looked to be the main garden. Her eyes widened as she tried to see what she could.

“Yes, I love my view as well. Having drinks above the garden is so peaceful.”

Corrin looked down at the table to see that their drinks and snacks had already been prepared. It seemed she hadn’t expected Corrin to turn down the invitation.

“Please, do go ahead, dear.” 

Corrin lifted her hand slowly, grabbing her cup and swirling it slightly before bringing it to her lips and taking a drink. The warmth felt nice in contrast to the cool rain that was mere inches from her.

“So, what did you do to my darling little brother?”

Corrin choked on her tea at the question, setting the cup down to cover her mouth as she coughed. Turning away, she pat her her chest as she tried to clear her throat, “Excuse me, Your Highness.” She cleared her throat again, “W-what do you mean?”

“He hasn't spoken to anyone since he returned, but I did hear from some little birdies that he spent time with you. And now, he hasn't left his room. Did something happen?”

Corrin thought back to the prior encounter, feeling her face warm as she tried avoiding Camilla’s gaze. “Well, not really… Nothing particularly interesting.”

Corrin chanced a look toward Camilla, who sat now, leaned forward as she rested her head on her clasped hands, eyes peering into Corrin, “You're lying.”

Corrin lifted her hands in reassurance, “N-no! I just… I don't know if Prince Leo would… appreciate…”

Camilla’s eyes lit up as a sly smile formed on her lips, “Oh… Oh~...”

Corrin blinked in confusion before realizing what Camilla was thinking, Corrin's eyes widening, “N-no, Your Highness! Nothing like that! He only tried to bite me, but he… didn't seem himself.”

“Aha! That would explain it. He's always been so weird about human blood.”

Realization set in as Corrin realized she'd been tricked, “Please, don't let him know I told you. I think he's upset with me. I was bleeding and I think I pushed it too far.”

“You say he didn't seem himself? How so?”

“He hasn't seemed too interested in marking me for him to have a change of heart so suddenly. And he didn't sound like himself…”

Camilla’s smile faded as she looked out into the garden, her eyes scanning it, before she closed them with a sigh. She stood from her seat, moving to stand next to Corrin, “Have you heard from him since then?”

“No, Your Highness.”

“Well, pouting isn't going to solve his problems. Please, trust me, dear.”

“Wha-” Corrin felt Camilla’s hand on her chin, pushing her head to the side as she bared her fangs and brought them next to Corrin's necklace. 

After a moment of holding Corrin in that position, Camilla released her and returned to her seat. “There. That should get his attention. I don't appreciate the silent treatment. Now, please have a cake.”

Corrin looked down, noticing the glow of her gems fading. She turned her attention to the table and at the small treats separated between two plates. She watched as Camilla took, what looked like, a cookie off of her own plate and ate it. Corrin noticed the sweets on Camilla's plate were all tinged red, “If you don't mind, Your Highness, I didn't know vampires could eat food.”

Camilla smiled at her, giving a soft laugh, “We don't eat normal food. I'm sure you can see the color of it. We can taste the other ingredients but derive no value from them. So our cooks find ways to cook with… well, you know. Xander hogs all of the good chefs for himself. Peri makes darling sweets, and Mozu is a gods-send. I particularly love these cookies Peri makes.”

“Does Leo have a favorite?”

“Oh yes. We don't make his favorite cake often because the poor boy will eat the whole thing! He also enjoys a nice soup with some of our wine now and again.”

Corrin looked at her own plate, nothing with any red tint, so presumably safe for her to eat. She hadn’t had any problems so far, why would they mix up now? She lifted a small, normal looking cake and took a bite as she looked out over the garden. 

“We ought to have tea together in the garden when it clears up. We can invite Elise to join us as well.”

“Of course, Your Highness.”

“Oh please, dear. You can call me Camilla.” Camilla lowered her voice as she murmured to herself. Corrin thought she heard Camilla say something about being her sister soon enough. Surely she had heard wrong. 

Shrugging it off, Corrin took another drink of her tea, not quite sure what to say.

“So, other than my brother giving everyone the cold shoulder, have you been enjoying yourself? How have your dances been going?”

“They’re… They were doing better, but I’ve seemed to regress.”

“Leo’s fault I’m sure. That boy, honestly.”

“Oh no! I wouldn’t blame him! My mind’s just been a million miles away, lately, it seems.”

“And who’s fault do you think that is? He’s gone, then he returns and turns into a hermit,” Camilla shook her head as she took a drink from her own cup. “Hm, speaking of which.”

“Hm?"

“If my guesstimation is correct… He should be here, right… about…”

Corrin heard the doors to Camilla’s bedroom slam open and a familiar voice. “Sister!”

Camilla smiled, setting her cup down and crossing her arms, “Yes~, my dearest brother?”

“I do not appreciate you continuing to put your fangs near my Chal-” 

Corrin watched as Leo bounded around the corner, their eyes meeting when he spotted them sitting on the balcony, perhaps more peacefully than he’d expected.

“What’s going on?” Leo asked, his eyes squinting as he looked to Camilla.

Corrin looked over Leo.- his eyes were fierce, a soft glow to them, his hair was disheveled, his crown missing, his black button up shirt only half tucked in, the top buttons unbuttoned, dried blood trailing from the sides of his mouth to his chin and onto his clothes. 

“Leo…,” Corrin muttered softly, barely audible. She’d never have even thought to imagine him in such a distressed looking state. Had she caused this?

Camilla giggled, “I thought I might spend some time with your dear Corrin here. She’s such a sweetheart.”

Leo stepped closer, “And why were your fangs near her?’

Camilla rolled her eyes, taking a drink before answering, “You’ve been ignoring everyone.”

“What are you talking-”

“And how could you ignore your sweet little Chalice? I’m sure she’s missed you.”

Corrin started, turning her head to Camilla, “What? I never said-"

“Oh hush, dear,” Camilla whispered to her.

Leo glared at Camilla, “So you used her to get my attention. She is not a toy.”

“Please, dear brother. Why don’t you join us? It’s such a beautiful day, after all.”

Leo did not answer right away, instead letting out an exasperated sigh. “I have more pressing concerns than teatime in the rain.”

Camilla closed her eyes as she shook her head, “More pressing concerns than the upcoming festivities? More pressing concerns than cleaning yourself up after a hunt?”

Corrin looked back to Leo, his eyes widening as he seemed to come back to his senses. He looked over himself before finally looking at Corrin, ashamedly.

“Honestly, dear, you could have at least wiped your mouth and fixed your hair.”

“I am not a child, sister.”

“No, but you are a prince.”

“Tsk.” Leo turned to leave.

“Wait!” Corrin stood, making her way over to him as he stopped, his back turned to her.

Leo didn’t look at her, “You are probably the main one I don’t want seeing me like this. Please, excuse me.”

“No, please.” Corrin stepped closer behind him, “I… I know I’ve upset you. I pushed you too far. I just…  I’m sorry. I shouldn’t have-”

“Corrin.”

Corrin looked up as Leo turned around. His eyes softened as his hand began to reach up to her face, the same movement as when he’d brush her hair back, but he hesitated, stopping his hand only to return it to his side, “Corrin, I am not mad at you. This is not your fault, I promise. If anything, it was my own fault and I’d understand if you don’t want to see me again. Please, excuse me.”

As he turned to leave again, Corrin grabbed his hand, “No! I don’t blame you. But please, if there’s anything I can do to help you… I won’t leave, I don't want to leave. But if you’re not okay because of me, I… I can go…”

A moment passed as they stood there, the rainfall the only sound to be heard. Finally, Leo turned back, “I’ll… “ He looked down to their hands, letting out a sigh, “I’ll be in the library this evening, if you’d like to join me.”

“Of course, Your Highn-” Corrin noticed his brows furrow and caught herself. “Leo. Of course, Leo.”

He smiled gently at her, Corrin returning the smile as they stood there.

“Sounds like a lovely date!” Camilla interjected.

Leo glared at his sister, “Please do your best to keep your fangs on your own Chalices, sister.” 

“Yes, yes. She does smell so good though. Honestly, I don't know how you-” Camilla looked at Leo as he looked away from them. “Oh come now, dear Leo. That's what we're made to do. You'll bite her eventually. And from the way she spoke about it, she sounded almost disappointed that you didn't. I don't know why you delay it, causing yourselves trouble.”

“To. Yourself.” Leo said through gritted teeth.

“-Prince Leo!”

“-Princess Camilla!”

They all looked to see two figures enter in tandem, both kneeling as they approached, their heads down.

“We came to make sure you two weren't at each other's throats.”

The smaller of the two scoffed as she looked up at her companion. Beruka. “As if Lord Leo would get anywhere near Lady Camilla's-”

The other looked up as he laughed at her, “Oh, I wouldn't be so sure! He can be downright feral when he wants to be~”

“You two!” Leo shouted. “We're fine. A misunderstanding.”

Corrin looked at the man as he continued to kneel, “You! You! It's you!” She let go of Leo's hand and walked over to him. 

“Well, well. Look at you. Bagged yourself quite the prize haven't you. I almost wouldn't recognize you without the dirt and blood. Shame, it was such a good look on you, too,” he replied to her.

“You said if Prince Leo picked a Chalice you would tell me your name.”

“Aye. I did, didn't I.” He stood, looking past Corrin as he did, toward Leo. With a small nod, he pulled his mask and hood down, finally allowing Corrin to see his face. His messy white hair contrasted his tan skin and his dark eye cover, and he looked more youthful than she may have guessed. He took her hand in his, placing his other on his chest as he placed a brisk kiss on her hand, “Niles, M’lady. Lord Leo's retainer.”

She looked at his wrist, the gems she had seen before perfectly matching hers. She wanted to smile, but couldn't seem to will it onto her face. Instead she lunged forward, hugging him.

“I, uh… Well, that’s a new one.”

Corrin pulled back, her face warm, “I’m sorry. I just… I never got to thank you for everything. You disappeared, and I felt like I kept seeing a ghost. But you’re not running this time! So, thank you… Niles. For all of your help.”

Camilla appeared next to Corrin, “I feel like I’ve missed something important.”

Corrin could feel the blush on her face as she realized how the situation looked, “I told you of the man who saved me, tended to me, and brought me here. It’s him!”

Camilla scoffed, “Surely, you’re mistaken. Niles? Are you sure?”

“Why the lack of confidence, M’lady? You wound me,” Niles said, pouting.

“Please,” Camilla said, rolling her eyes. “You? A rescuer of distressed maidens? Perhaps our cattle have learned to fly and we can walk in the sun!”

“It was him, no mistake, Your Highness.”

Camilla laughed, “Well, would you look at that Leo!” Camilla looked back to him, “How romantic! It’s almost like it’s fate. Your own retainer managed to save the one person you would finally choose.”

Leo glared at her again, “Romantic? What are you talking about, Camilla?”

Camilla brushed her hair back with one of her hands, “Oh, you think I don’t know?”

“What are you-?!”

Corrin turned back to Niles, “Thank you… again.”

Niles placed a hand on Corrin's shoulder, “I’m glad he picked you. Too bad I couldn’t snag you for myself, though.” Smirking at her, she finally saw his fangs. “Oh! I thought I might run into you sometime, here.” He reached under his cloak, taking a moment to fiddle with something tied to his belt before finally lifting it up.

“My bag?”

“It got left on my mare, figured you’d want it back.”

Corrin took it from him, holding it against herself. It was still dirty, a few glass shards still visible in it, with small tears along various parts of it. She clenched it tight as she felt her eyes begin to sting, memories of that night flooding back.. ‘ Not here!’

Corrin felt a hand on the back of her shoulder causing her to startle as she flung her head around quickly. Leo lifted his hand, “Sorry, I didn’t mean to be so quiet as to startle you.”

As Corrin felt her bag, the dirt, the blood stains, and looked at Leo, his face and clothes blood-stained, she felt herself take a step away.

“I’m not feeling very well. I… If you would please excuse me, Your Highnesses.” 

“Corrin-” Leo started.

She turned to Niles, forcing a smile to him before she walked briskly through Camilla’s room and out into the hall. 

“Lady Corrin! Is everything okay? Prince Leo looked very upset and the retainers went in and-” Felicia stopped as Corrin walked past her, not stopping. “Are you alright, M’lady?”

“I’m fine!” Corrin said, walking fast, turning a corner quickly, and another, and another, before finding herself sprinting. She felt the tears welling in her eyes as she ran. She wasn’t sure where she was running, but what did it matter? 

When she finally stopped running, she noticed a hallway littered with huge windows that led to a large doorway. She walked down it hesitantly, looking through the windows as she went. She noticed that she seemed to have found the entrance to the main garden. She placed her hand on the door, lingering until she finally pushed it open. The rain had lightened up immensely, though it still fell. She took a deep breath and stepped out into the darkness feeling the cool drops against her skin. 

She looked around before she closed her eyes and lifted her head up. Without thinking, her hand moved up to her neck. ‘ Tight… Why does it feel so tight…’ Moving along her necklace, her fingers wound around her neck and unclasped her necklace. She looked at it in her palm before placing it in the pocket of her dress. Looking around again, making sure she was alone, before she began walking. 

There were many more plants here than Leo’s private garden, and many were much bigger, but given their outdoor freedom, it didn’t surprise her. She walked quietly as she followed what lanterns were lit, finding herself calming as the cool air and rain drops kissed her skin. ‘ When was the last time I was outside?’ 

She came to an open area, an enormous water fountain sitting in the middle of a circular path surrounded by walls of trees and flowers. She sat along the edge of the fountain, placing her bag in her lap as her vision blurred slowly. She’d had moments since she’d arrived here where she found herself shedding tears for her mother, her village, her life, but she’d had nothing to anchor herself to them. The only thing she still had to remember any of those things was herself, and here she was, a volunteer to the creatures who had destroyed them all. 

As the silent moments dragged on, she couldn't seem to tear her eyes from the only part of her former life she had left. Torn between the painful memories it brought and the calm of the garden. 

After some time lost in her thoughts, she felt much calmer than she had when she ran out here.

‘ I must have offended Leo. I should probably apologize, but…”

Snap

Her head jolted up, looking around frantically. The candlelit posts offered little aid to her vision. Though she usually would see well in the darkness, preferring the dark months in her village, she must have grown too accustomed to being indoors with a constant light source. She tried making out anything she could behind the flowers and trees, but couldn't seem to focus.

‘I am outside… Perhaps just a bird or animal trying to stay dry.’ 

Looking around again, she let out a held breath before she stood, deciding it would be better to return inside. She had probably worried Felicia, and besides, she wanted to return to her room, especially now that the rain was beginning to pick up again. 

“Leaving so soon, Chalice? ” She heard a male voice ask in a mocking tone.

Stopping to turn her head toward the voice, when she didn't see anyone she continued walking, increasing her pace, but which way had she come from. 

“How rude. A prince's Chalice ought to at least greet their company.” The voice sounded closer, familiar.

Corrin didn't look back and decided to up her pace. Formalities be damned, if someone needed to speak with her, they'd do it in a less vulnerable space. She kept her head straight as she tried to figure out which way to go. As she came to a split in the path, it looked like both would lead back to the castle, but the topiaries blocked any clear enough view. 

She closed her eyes as a shaky sigh left her lips. She'd have to just choose. Deciding on a path, she took a step, only for a man to step out in front of her, blocking her way. 

Corrin cursed inwardly as she took a step back. ‘ Maybe if I play nice…’

“Ah, Nichol… I believe we've met acquaintances before.”

The man grinned at her, “Indeed we have. Where is your liege, My Lady?”

“Prince Leo? Actually, he's meant to meet me. He should be here any moment.”

“Hm. That's interesting.” He stepped closer to her, “I thought they were looking for you. When you didn't return to your room, of course. And no one knew where you went.”

Corrin's gaze stayed firm on him as he approached her.

“But, it was all too easy to tell the Princess that no one was in the garden, especially in this rain.”

Corrin swallowed hard, trying to keep her head tall, though she feared her slight trembling would be obvious.

“Certainly not the prince’s Chalice, who definitely didn't take off her precious charm.”

Her gasp left her mouth before she could stop it, her hand raising to her neck. She’d forgotten she’d taken it off. Slowly moving her hand off her neck and placing it back at her side, she tried to take more steps back but each time he took a step forward. ‘ The dagger or the necklace, which one do I want to go for?’

“A shame, really. I pity you. Still no mark- how selfish of him.” 

Knowing she wouldn’t be able to back up much longer, she crept her hand slowly with each step, hiding the movement behind the folds of her dress, as she slid it into her empty pocket. Finally, her back met with the prickles of a bush offering no more space to flee. Her eyes flashed behind Nichol at the path, if she could just-

“Are you thinking of running?” He laughed, closing the distance to stand in front of her. “Ah, now that won't do,” he grabbed her wrists quickly, holding them tight. “Can't have you reaching around, can we?”

Corrin tried kicking her legs but he pressed his own against hers. 

“Calm, dear. I won't bite you. I just want a little taste. Leo won't even be able to tell anyone took a bite off his plate.“ He let go of one of her hands as he reached to his side, brandishing a dagger, “And you won't tell him, will you? I have friends who might like a taste as well should I give them the okay. Unless… You'd rather be bitten. I could be persuaded. After all, it's not my fault he hasn't claimed you.”

Corrin took the chance to reach for the dagger and push him back, causing them both to fall. His grip on her wrist too strong as she struggled to stand, only being pulled back down to the ground, him on top of her as he used his weight to pin her.

“Feisty! That'll make this much more fun. And look,” he held the dagger above her face, blood dripping off of it.

Corrin’s eyes wide as she felt the stinging pain, her arm having met with the dagger in her fall, a slice now warm with blood.

“The smell of a feast,” he bared his fangs. 

Looking over the dagger she noticed he held it in reverse. Taking a deep breath, she tried to muster what strength she could, grabbing his hand over the dagger and pushing it into his chest.

Laughter is all that came from him, “A valiant effort. However-” He pulled the blade out slowly, a grin spreading across his face as he did, “It's not silver.”

Corrin looked on, horrified. ‘What now?!’ She tried moving her legs, but could hardly budge under his weight, her wrist still pinned under one of his hands, but he said they were looking for her. She breathed in deep, maybe someone would hear her, if the rain didn’t drown the sound, and yelled out for the first person she thought of,” Leo!"

She felt a hand press hard against her mouth as her wrist was freed. 

“Shh, we don't need any interruptions, or… I could always cut out your tongue. My Chalices don't really need to speak,” he moved the dagger next to her mouth, looking over it, the hint of an idea sparking behind his eyes. Leaning down, his lips brushed against her ear, his voice a low whisper, “I could turn you, and keep you forever. My stolen conquest… And, if you're obedient, maybe I can give you more .” A wide smile grew on his face as he sat up again, baring his fangs once more. 

Tossing the dagger aside, he held both of her wrists down as she struggled, using his thumb to press on the cut on her arm, his eyes lighting up as she squirmed beneath him and her blood flowed.

“I don't need your neck.” He lifted her bloody arm toward himself, warm drops of blood joining the rain as it fell like droplets against her face.

She continued to struggle against him, and though the pain was great, she could feel the blood giving her leeway to free her arm from his grip. His brow furrowing in anger, Nichol let go of her other wrist, bringing both hands to hold her arm firm, trying to hold it steady.

Squirming again to hide her movement, she yanked her dress up quickly from under his weight, and grabbed the hilt of her dagger where it rested against her thigh. ‘Silver, please!’   Not chancing any reaction, she shoved it under their arms and upward into his chest.

She pulled it out with force, using what strength she could muster to push her upper weight into him as she leaned up, taking advantage of his shock to finally push him back onto the wet ground. He still held her wrist as he pulled her back with him, though now she was on top of him. She brought the dagger down again, and again, and again, letting out a cry as she drove it down a final time into his heart, pushing it in as far as she could.

Panting, deep heavy breaths, Corrin looked down at the man underneath her. Her eyes widened, realizing what she’d done as he choked one final time on his own blood- a last twitch of his body before stillness.

It was as if everything had stopped. She couldn’t feel the rain, couldn’t feel the sting of her cut, couldn’t hear her breath, the rain, couldn’t blink. She lifted her hands, looking at the way they shook, the blood that covered them, her breaths getting heavier.  ‘D-did I…do this? No! I had to… I had to! I can’t breathe-’

“Corrin!” 

She snapped her head to the path where she heard the voice and saw figures approaching. Her eyes still wide, she felt tears begin to fall as she stood, collapsing into the person that reached her first, “Leo… I… He…”

“Shh,” he whispered.

As her hands gripped his shirt tight, she buried her face in his chest, letting out her cries. His arms wrapped around her, holding her close as one of his hands stroked her hair.

“Niles, I need this dealt with. I’m taking her, please send Felicia to my quarters.”

“Yes, Prince Leo.”

Corrin gasped when she felt Leo put one of his arms under her legs, lifting her off the ground. She wanted to be strong, wanted to tell him she could walk just fine, but she was tired. Tired of death, tired of fighting, just tired. So she didn’t fight it, keeping her grip on his shirt and burying her face into his chest as she continued to sob quietly. 

As he walked her through the halls, the rhythmic sound of his footsteps against the sound of the rainfall hitting the castle allowed her something to focus on, allowed her to calm. She didn’t want to think, she only wanted to be safe.

‘ To be safe…’ She found herself turning her head, moving her eyes to look up at Leo as he carried her. He had cleaned up some since she’d run off earlier, his face clean and his bloodstained shirt changed. Although now that she looked at it, the white shirt he had changed into was also now bloodstained as he carried her. 

She furrowed her brow before closing her eyes and resting her head against his chest, relaxing in his arms. ‘ Tired. Safe.’

Chapter Text

Corrin's mind swayed between dreaming and consciousness, barely remembering anything through the night. 

‘ Safe?’  Her eyes opened only barely as she felt herself being set down, seeing Leo standing above her. She closed her eyes again.

“I'll step out. Please, do what you need.” She could hear Leo, but didn't open her eyes.

No. Stay.

“Of course, Your Highness.” Felicia.

Silence .

“You found what in her pocket?” Leo asked.

Felicia seemed unsure how to answer, “Well, of course we found her necklace, but she has these petals. I don’t think I’ve seen them here in the castle.”

“Let me see them.”

Still dark.

“Is she alright?” Leo's voice.

“Yes. We reversed the toxin. Other than that, some scrapes here and there, Jakob has cared for her wound, though it may bleed if it is touched.”

“Then I will leave her be.”

No!

“Thank you again, Felicia.”

“Leo…” Corrin muttered, her eyes barely opening.

“Corrin?” He was at her side now.

“Don't go… Please, stay. With me.” Through her tired gaze, she could see him debating to himself. She reached up and grabbed his hand.

“Of course, Corrin. You're safe here.”

Silence .

She felt her arm raised. Struggling to open her eyes she could make out Leo at the edge of the bed, kneeling, her arm in his hands. A streak of red, his mouth open moving toward her arm.

“Leo…” 

Nothing .

Corrin moved around, feeling a pain in her arm and her body hot. She moved her hand, feeling someone next to her. Her eyes shut, she felt calm as her hand moved onto them, moving herself closer, gripping tight to their shirt over their chest.

Dark .

Corrin groaned as she opened her eyes. She wasn’t sure what time it was, or even where she was. Taking a deep breath, she tried to sit up, but felt something around her. Confusion found its way to her face as she realized her pillow didn’t feel like the pillow she’d grown accustomed to. She moved her head slowly as she looked underneath her head. ‘Buttons? Is this a shirt?’  

Taking a long moment to process what she was seeing, finally it clicked, her eyes widened as she looked up to see Leo in the bed with her. He was half sitting up, leaning against the pillows with his head resting against the backboard, a backboard she didn’t recognize, and he seemed to be asleep. His eyes were closed, his mouth parted slightly as he took light breaths, his arm rested around Corrin’s body. 

She felt like her eyes were going to pop out of her skull, her face burning up as it fully set in.

‘Am I in Leo’s bed?!’

Lifting her head carefully, she looked around at what she could see. His bed seemed to be on a raised platform, similar to Camilla’s had been, his bedding was black with purple and silver embroidery, his bed seeming to be in the separated room rather than in the main room with the hearth like Camilla’s had been, though a desk sat across the room littered with books both opened and stacked in disarray. Some of them seemed to have found their way onto the bed beside her. 

‘Definitely not my room! Why am I- How am I-?!’

She tried to remember how she had wound up here, not really remembering much of the previous night. She remembered being in the garden, but then nothing.

‘ The garden…I ran off. I was sitting in the garden…’

“ Corrin… I’m here…”

She felt his grip on her tighten. “Did I wake him?’

She looked up to him- still asleep. Her neck getting sore, she hesitantly rested her head back on him, where it had been. Listening to the sound of his breathing, she tried to relax and remember how she’d ended up in the prince’s bed.

‘Well… we both seem to be fully dressed, at least. Did he bite me?’ She lifted her hand that rested on her side carefully to feel her neck. Nothing. 

Feeling her neck made her realize her necklace was missing. ‘ Where- Oh right, I took it off.’

Her face scrunched as she tried to force her memory back, to no avail. Letting out a quiet sigh, she reserved herself to stay still until he woke up. Whatever had happened, she found this kind of nice, though she couldn’t quite get the blood to leave her face as she thought about the position she was in.

Moving her head to look at him again, she realized he was still in his day clothes, his crown still nestled in his hair, though she noticed a small dab of red near the edge of his mouth. Tilting her head she noticed a cup on the table near the bed. How long had he been here?

The calmness of his breathing made him seem almost ethereal. As she looked over his face, she moved her gaze down from his eyes to his lips where she could see his fangs peeking out before looking over his neck and then to where the top of his shirt was unbuttoned. Her eyes remained unmoving until she realized she wasn't breathing, causing her to tear her eyes away, relaxing herself again. 

‘Not tired…’

She remained on his chest, listening to his breaths as she half-heartedly tried to remember anything that had happened. Surely, they hadn't… done anything to each other. Leo looked as though he'd gotten into the bed quickly, and she was fully dressed- 

‘This isn't what I was wearing!’

She decided to stop thinking about it, no sense speculating, if not only for her own sanity, then at least to not wake Leo. ‘ Would it be so bad if we had?’

Looking back up to his face she looked at what she could see of his fangs. ‘ Maybe I am ready for his mark…’

Putting her head back down she closed her eyes tight. ‘ Ah not right now!’

Feeling him move, she froze, her face relaxing. Since she couldn't remember, she wondered if he knew she was in his bed. Relaxing, and keeping her eyes shut, she tried to steady her breathing to mimic sleep. 

She could feel him squirm beneath her, moving slowly so as not to disturb her. He didn't move for a moment afterward, making Corrin wonder if he hadn’t gone back to sleep. Before she looked up, she heard him let out a sigh before she felt his hand on her head as he began to stroke her hair. His other hand reached over to her arm, moving her wrist gently.

Peeking one eye open, she saw the cut on her arm and everything came rushing back, the last thing she could remember was being in Leo’s arms.

Her grip tightened on his shirt as she buried her face into his chest.

“Corrin?! Are you awake?” Leo whispered as he leaned over, not wanting to wake her if she were still asleep.

She nodded slowly, prompting him to slip his hand under her chin, gently lifting her face to look at her. Relief overtook his gaze, his arms wrapping around her and holding her tight.

Corrin blinked in surprise, her face squished between his chest and his tight hold, “P-prince Leo? Are you okay?”

“Oh-! Of course, sorry.” He released her, but kept hold of her hand.

Corrin wondered if she saw him get slightly flustered as she sat up.

“I’m sorry. I just… How are you feeling?”

“I feel… Mostly thirsty.”

“Of course. You’re probably starving as well. I’ll go fetch Felicia-”

“No!... I mean…” Corrin looked away, unsure of what to say. 

“Corrin,” Leo said gently as he began to reach his hand up. He hesitated a moment to touch her face, but placed it softly against her skin, moving her face to look at him, “I’m not going anywhere… ever.”

“Leo…,” Corrin relaxed against his hand as she locked eyes with him. He had said it so assuredly, his gaze firm, but it softened as he looked at her. She lifted her hand up, placing it on his.

Almost making it too easy to forget where she was, she was suddenly hyper aware of her proximity to him as she was still curled up beside him, in his bed, his face a very small distance from her own.

She found herself hurriedly getting out of the bed, forgetting about the raised platform, and falling forward. She felt a hand on her arm as he tried catching her, but whether due to the platform or the way he had been sitting, he pulled her back and onto the bed, her weight pulling him over her. 

If she thought he was close before, he definitely was now. Feeling his breath on her lips as he hovered over her body, her legs straddled on either side of him, she thought of pushing him away, but the thought of staying still prevailed in her mind.

“Corrin…,” Leo whispered.

‘ I must be tired. He looks like he’s getting closer.’

“Your arm. I’m sorry.”

“What-?” A sudden sting in her arm made her look at it. It seemed to be healing, but he must have grabbed it too hard when he caught her, a drop of blood began to run down her wrist. “I’m sorry, Leo!”

He scoffed at her, “Nothing to be sorry for. It’s my fault.”

“No, you were just trying to catch me. I should be more careful.”

He smiled at her before his face tightened, "I won't shut you out again. I'm okay, but..." He looked over her before letting out a soft sigh and began to sit up before she caught his arm. 

Corrin looked at her arm, her thoughts swirling, “Leo.”

“I must excuse myself for a moment.”

“Leo… My mind is still a blur, but… I don’t want them to have me first. I’m not asking you to force yourself to mark me, but if anyone is going to have me, I want it to be you. Please…”

Leo shook his head as he looked down at Corrin. 

‘In his garden… “You underneath me like this.” I wonder what he’s thinking…’

“You are impossible,” he said with a soft laugh. 

Corrin smiled softly to him, the blood running down her arm as she held onto his, “I don’t know how long you’ve been here with me, but you probably haven't had a drink in a while. I just… If this keeps happening, I want you to be the one to get my blood first.” She watched as he closed his eyes, taking a deep breath. 

When his eyes opened, he looked to her arm as he grabbed it with his free hand, holding it gently, “You’ve only just woken up, and you’re the one worried about me.” He looked to her, meeting her gaze before looking back to the blood on her arm. Taking a deep breath he, Corrin could feel a slight shake in his hold on her arm, “You can’t know how much I want to taste you-”

“Then, please! I want you to!”

“But…” He set her arm down, wincing slightly as he noticed the blood on his hand. Lowering himself, his hands on either side of her, their faces close enough together she could feel his breath on her lips, “There’s something I want even more than that.”

“And… what is that, Your Highness?”

His face grew closer, “You…”

Me?

“...To be alright.” He moved his lips to her ear, lowering his voice, “The next time you ask, I will do it. I will mark you. So please be sure. But for now…”

As he paused the door opened.

“Sire! I smelled blood and-... Oh… sire indeed~.”

Leo scoffed, smiling lightly as he hesitated moving. Sitting up, he looked over Corrin beneath him, drinking it in before he shook his head lightly, “What do you want, Niles?”

“Just making sure assistance wasn't needed, but I see you're doing more than fine.”

Leo sighed as he rolled his eyes, “Actually, send for Felicia and Jakob. Tell them she's awake, and that she'll need her wound cleaned up.” 

“Of course….Sire.” Niles scoffed, amused.

“Just go.” 

With that Niles bowed and left the room, amusement written all over him.

Leo turned his attention back to Corrin who had covered her face with her hands, her face a vivid red. 

“You know,” Leo leaned down, his hand coming up to her face as he slid it underneath her hand. Nudging it away, he ran his thumb over her cheek. “If you don't want me to bite you now,” his face closer now, “-you'll probably have to stop blushing so much.”

She felt her face burning hotter now, “What do you expect? I wake up in your bed, in your room, and then your retainer walks in when you're sitting on top of me, and- mm?”

Corrin looked at Leo, his hand over her mouth, his face hovering over hers.

Before she could do anything a light tap rattled on the door, “Your Highness? Niles said you sent for me?”

Leo pulled away, smiling as he looked over Corrin. Before removing his hand from her face, he rubbed her cheek, then stood, walking toward the door.

Corrin didn't move, instead staring at the ceiling, unable to blink. 

“Oh! Lady Corrin, are you alright?”

“I don't…. know…?” Corrin replied, unmoving.

Felicia leaned over the bed to help Corrin sit up, “Oh your wound is bleeding. Let me get a towel!” 

As Felicia turned, she bumped into Leo, “Oh, sorry, Your Highness!… Um.. Prince Leo… Are you in need of anything?”

Leo smirked, “Ah, please, excuse me, I won’t linger. Corrin-”

Corrin looked over to him, her blood still pooled in her face, “Yes?”

“I need to step out for just a few moments. I won't be far, I promise. Please, call for me if you need.”

Corrin nodded slowly, she still hadn't processed what had just happened, “Y-yes. Of course, Your Highness.”

Leo came over to her, brushed her hair behind her ear, his hand lingering a moment after, and then turned, walking over to the door, “Oh, and Corrin. Your necklace is on my desk, if you'd like to have it back.”

Corrin nodded once as she looked at him. 

After Leo left the room, Felicia sprang back to her with a small cloth, “Please, hold this on your arm while I get a towel.”

Corrin did as told while she tilted her head watching Felicia go through the doors. She had seen Leo's bedroom now, but wondered what the rest of it looked like. Finally standing from the bed, she watched for the step down this time, and stepped onto the soft rug that sat on the hardwood floor. 

She looked at the door before turning back to walk over to his desk. He had so many books scattered everywhere, but as she scanned through them she found her necklace, picking it up and looking at it in her hands before lifting it to her neck and clasping it. 

She ran her fingers over the gemstones before turning and walking over to the door again, pushing it open slowly, peeking through it to check for anyone that might be out there. She saw only Felicia returning and decided to creep out.

“Oh, M'lady. I've got that rag, if you would allow me.”

Corrin felt Felicia lift her arm, dabbing it gently with the rag to clean the blood. 

“How are you feeling M'lady? Lord Leo seemed to be in high spirits. Definitely much more than the past few days.”

“Few days? Oh right, he hadn't come out of his room.”

“No, after… Has he not told you?”

“Told me what?”

Felicia grimaced, “I'll let him tell you. For now, we should get you cleaned up and dressed.”

Corrin nodded, before she looked around, remembering she was in Leo's room. It was much darker than her own. Her room filled with brighter purples and more candlelight, his room filled with more black and silver, though hints of purple still adorned much of the decor, and it seemed his book piles extended to this part of his room as well. He had a similar set up as Camilla on his balcony, but it didn't seem to be used as much as the small table that sat next to the lounge chair near his hearth. The chair itself looked to be made with a sort of purple velvet material, a blanket tossed over some pillows, and the table beside it with an open book and an empty decanter, though drops of red sat at the bottom. 

Felicia walked over to another door, holding it open for Corrin, who followed and entered. It was Leo's washroom.

“In Leo's room? Is that okay?”

“Of course, M'lady. If you'd rather not, we could probably go to your room, though it's a bit of a walk… I've got your clothing here already.”

Corrin thought of walking through the castle in her sleep clothes, walking past the nobles and vampiric knights. The idea felt heavy in her stomach, especially now as she didn't know what had become of her dagger.

‘Thank the gods it was silver …’

Then Corrin wondered how far her room was from Leo's, the thought of being so far away from him made her breath catch, “Alright.”

As Felicia helped Corrin get cleaned up and dressed,  Corrin didn't say much, though when Jakob knocked on the door to inform them he had brought her breakfast, she nearly jumped out of her skin, her breath growing heavy and fast. 

As Felicia checked the door, she hadn't noticed Corrin until she turned back around. “It's okay, Lady Corrin! It's only Jakob. No one is allowed in the prince’s room without express permission.”

Corrin tried calming herself, to slow her breathing, but found herself static, her eyes glued to the door. 

Felicia looked concerned, unsure of what to do. The door opened behind her to Niles asking if Corrin was dressed, and entering after confirmation was given.

Holding his hands up he approached slowly, “I could tell your heart was freakin’ out. It's okay. Lord Leo left me here on guard, I ain't lettin anyone get near ya.”

Corrin watched him as he approached, her breath beginning to slow as he got closer and grabbed her hands. Though small, she nodded to him, “It just… startled me and..”

“Yeah. Come on, you must be starving. Lord Leo will be back soon,” he said, holding his arm out for her.

Corrin gave a forced smile as she linked her arm into his, walking alongside Niles back out to the room, noticing the food on the balcony table. She walked over to it slowly and sat down as Niles pulled her chair out. 

“I wouldn't wait for him, you can go ahead.” 

As he turned around Corrin grabbed his hand. Turning his head back to her, he gave her a smile, “Don't worry. I'm right outside the door and Felicia and Jakob are right here.” He lowered his voice to a whisper, “They're actually pretty handy with cutlery, if you catch my drift, but I didn't tell you that.”

Corrin averted her eyes from his and nodded slowly. She watched him leave, looking over at Felicia and Jakob who stood nearby once he was gone, and decided she should probably eat something to keep her mind off of it.

‘So am I just going to be as jumpy as a rabbit now?’

She sighed, grabbing her cup and taking a drink before looking over her food. ‘Nothing red, I guess. ’ She thought, smiling to herself. 

As she ate, she overlooked Leo's view from his balcony. Parts of the nearby town, the nearby lake and forest, it all looked so small from where she sat. The trees had yet to fully change their colors from what she could tell with the light the town offered, though it seemed they were trying. 

She looked at her food as she thought about being in Leo’s room.

“Hey, Felicia.”

“Yes, ma'am?”

“Princess Camilla mentioned a certain type of cake…”

Some moments after she finished eating and the table was cleared, she decided to stay at the table, trying to see what she could of the town. She had been through it when she’d arrived here, but had tried to blend into the wall so as to not be noticed. She wondered how life differed here than her village. Surely, more vendors, more bars, more liveliness. She found herself standing, walking over to the edge as she leaned on it looking out. 

She closed her eyes and took a deep breath as she reveled in the darkness. Her favorite time of year back home had been when her village was beset by the everlasting night that persisted on this side of the continent. It felt so calm, so serene, the candlelight’s warm hues giving a beauty to things the sun couldn’t. Perhaps, she had chosen right in coming to the Dusk, save for a couple of months where the sun shone for a few hours daily, it was always night.

“Are you alright?”

Corrin started when she heard Leo. Turning around she saw that he had cleaned up a bit, though he now carried a crystal decanter in his hand that he tried to hide behind his back, similar to the one she’d seen earlier. “Y-yes. I was just admiring your view.”

“Oh.” He walked over next to her, placing his free hand on the balcony beside hers. “I do love the calmness of the forest.”

“I’m sure you can see more of it than I can…”

He scoffed lightheartedly, “Probably. But, you never know, your eyes may adapt.”

“Surely, not to the level of a vampire prince’s.”

He smiled again, “And how much do you know of vampire royalty? What tales come from your village?”

“Well…” Corrin’s brow furrowed. She hadn’t really thought of it. “Well… To us, vampires were nothing more than monsters…” She noticed Leo tense, his grip tightening on the balcony. “T-that is to say, we never really had any come through town, not knowingly, anyway. Most of what people talked about were any news of attacks that came through, but then we stopped receiving messengers altogether sometime before our own village was…well…”

“I’m sorry.”

Corrin let the pause linger a moment before continuing, “As for what we knew of the royalty? Hm… We knew we could volunteer, though nobody ever did. Didn’t figure vampire royalty would want any of us lowly village folk. I think I heard someone saying that we would probably 'taste like piss.'”

As she thought of the moment she’d overheard that, she remembered the man who had bumped into her. ‘ Surely not…’  

Looking to Leo, she saw his smile, returning it with one of her own as she pushed the thought aside.

She looked back out toward the forest, “Of course, all kinds of tales. That you can turn into bats, can’t walk in the sun, sleep in coffins, can smell fear. That you can hear heart beats, smell blood, transform into beasts, don’t have reflections...”

Leo laughed softly, “I wish I could turn into a bat.”

Corrin smiled back, “They are pretty cute.”

“Am I not already?” He pouted.

Corrin averted her gaze back to the forest as she rolled her eyes playfully, “Just the bat, huh? Everything else is true?”

“What if it is?” He asked, grinning.

Corrin smiled softly as she continued to look out.

“And what do you think, Corrin? After all you’ve experienced of my kind…” Leo moved his hand to rest on hers on the balcony, looking into her eyes as she looked at him. “Do you think I’m a monster?”

Corrin was taken aback. Think he was a monster? What was he talking about? ”Leo…”

“You’ve witnessed so much hurt from us…”

“No.”

“Corrin?”

She placed her other hand on top of his, holding it tight, “You’re not a monster. Not to me, anyway. How’s it any different, from people? There are good and bad, I’ve just had some unfortunate run-ins.” 

“Corrin…”

“I’m glad to have been chosen by you. I wouldn’t have it any other way. Not because you’re a prince, but because you’re Leo and you’ve been nothing short of amazing. You've given me help, patience, protections... Honestly, I think I’m ready for you to-”

“And what if I couldn't control myself? If I hurt you?” He looked at her, serious.

“Then…” She looked over his expression, her own softening, “Then I would know it wasn’t really you.”

She scoffed lightly, “Speaking of being you…” She let go of his hand on the balcony, grabbing his other arm and pulling it forward, “You don’t have to hide your food from me.”

His look gentle as he looked over her, “I’m sorry, I was going to pour it into something more acceptable, but returned quickly.”

“Don’t be. I’m not going to pretend you’re something you’re not. I know what your diet is, you don’t need to hide it from me.”

“Corrin…  Will you remember all that you’ve said when it comes time for the ball?”

“Why?”

“Others of my kind… Their Chalices… It’s not small vials they’ll be drinking from. Will you be alright?”

Corrin thought over his words, realizing what he meant. Why would they hide what they were in their own space? Of course it would make sense for them to feed, especially at a ball celebrating Chalices, who’s purpose was for that very thing.

“I’ll…” Corrin sighed. “Will we be alright? If you haven’t…”

“Impossible,” he smiled as he referenced his earlier remark. “If you want to leave the ball at any time, we can.”

“Noted.”

“Good. Because it’s in two days.”

“Two days?!”

“You’ve, uh… You’ve been asleep for three days.”

Corrin’s eyes widened as she took that in, “Three? Days? How? What?”

Leo’s face was stoic, “What do you remember?”

“I was in the garden, and then… I remember you carrying me. Not anything after that.”

Corrin thought she saw a moment of sadness on his face, “Nothing after that?”

“Not right now, anyway. Some of it has been coming back to me. Is he… Did I…”

“Yes. He is.”

Corrin wasn’t sure how to feel. She had never killed anything other than an animal before, but in a way that’s all Nichol had been. Something still hurt her though, taking a life in such a way, even in defense.

“We found you, in the garden. I brought you back to my room where Felicia and Jakob cleaned you up. However, your wound… Your blood, smelled off. His dagger had a toxin on it meant to put you into a deep sleep.”

Corrin swallowed hard, not daring to imagine where she may have ended up if she hadn’t succumbed whilst in Leo’s care.

“I knew it was temporary, but I was so worried about you. Of course you wouldn’t let me leave-... Well, I’m glad you’re awake.”

Corrin thought to the books at her side when she’d awoken and the cup at his bedside. Had he stayed with her the whole time. “Is that why I was… In your bed? Why you were…”

He looked away flustered, “Please, don’t think ill of me. I had no corrupt intentions. In your hazy awakenings, you’d ask for me, not wanting me to leave. I can understand why.”

“I’m sorry.”

He laughed loudly, “You’re attacked, wounded, drugged, and you’re apologizing to me?!” He turned to her, setting his decanter on the balcony before cupping her face in his hands, “I’m sorry I couldn’t protect you. That I scared you off. That I ignored you for days. That I looked like a monster.”

“Leo, you didn’t look like a monster, you didn’t scare me off, and I’m sure you had your reasons. The real monster was the thing in the garden. I’m sorry for having run off. I shouldn’t have taken off my necklace, I was so stupid! I’m sorry, I-”

Was she still asleep? Maybe she had fallen and hit her head earlier. Surely she was dreaming.

Surely Leo’s lips were not on her own. 

She looked over him as he kissed her before she relaxed in his hold. But just as soon as he’d kissed her, he pulled away, resting his forehead against hers, flustered.

“I’m… glad you’re alright.”

Corrin didn’t respond, unable to move as her mind processed what had happened. 

Leo backed away as he let go of her, “S-sorry. I don’t know what came over me.”

Corrin reached out quickly, grabbing his hand.

“I won’t do that again without your permission. But-” He looked back out over the balcony, “I feel like I needed to do that before…if I ever mark you.”

Corrin could only blink, unsure what to say, unsure of how she felt about it.

He squeezed her hand before letting go, walking into his bedroom, leaving her on the balcony.

Still unable to process what had happened, she instead turned her attention back over toward the town as she tried to make out any little detail she could as her thoughts scrambled. ‘ What was that about? Why did I… I liked it?’ She groaned to herself.

As Leo came back to the balcony, he paused a moment, unsurety written on his face, “I feel you should have this… But please don’t run off again.” He pulled her bag out from behind his back. “It is yours after all.”

Corrin looked at her bag before looking at Leo. He looked concerned now, worried. “I won’t.”

Leo walked back over to her next to the balcony, placing it in her hands. She took it, holding it tight before she opened it, letting out a quick laugh before she let out a saddened sigh. She pulled out a candle, purple, and a bit smashed, holding it up as she looked it over. She took a few steps to set it down on the table before taking a seat, Leo joining her. 

“A candle? Oh, for the festival? I didn’t realize villages so far southeast celebrated.”

“You know of the candle festival?”

“If it’s similar to what we have here.”

“We light candles to mark the start of night-filled days.”

“The very same, sort of. In fact…”

“Hm?”

“Nothing, please continue if you’d like.”

Corrin looked at the candle, “The person who gave me this actually helped protect me…that night. I don’t know that he made it.”

Leo placed his hand on hers, offering a silent moment before speaking, “There were survivors. Who knows?”

Corrin smiled softly before she opened her bag again. Some dried up vegetables, some coins, lint, some small odds and ends she didn’t remember putting in there, and two small dolls her mother had made for her birthday one year- one of herself and one of Corrin. Corrin held the doll of her mother in her hands, stroking the long black hair on it before holding it to her chest. 

After a few moments, she put everything back into her bag, “Thank you.”

“Thank Niles. He had half a mind to hold onto it.”

Corrin nodded, “True.” 

“So…”

Corrin looked up at Leo, a devious smile plastered on his face.

“Speaking of festivals…”

Chapter Text

“What do you mean sneak out?!”

Leo smiled, “Come on! Felicia, get her something with a high collar and a cloak with a hood.”

Corrin watched as Leo walked over to her, lifting his hands to remove her headband, before removing his own and setting them both on his lounge chair near the hearth.

Corrin blinked in disbelief, “Is that even allowed?! Plus the war… Is it safe for you to leave the castle?”

Leo laughed, “We’ll have Niles and Jakob tailing us. And besides, you think I can't handle a fight?”

“Well…”

“As long as you've got your necklace on, I can find you. And, truthfully… I'd be lying if I said I hadn't done this before.”

“The prince sneaking out of the castle to mingle amongst commoners?” 

“Sometimes it’s nice to not be held on such a pedestal. And festivals are always fun.”

Corrin looked around, unsure. Looking to Felicia as she returned with the clothing, she saw her Familiar’s face, eager as she awaited her answer. 

Is he insane? But…it does sound like fun…

Letting out a sigh Corrin looked to Leo, “If you're sure, Your Highness…”

“Ah, no titles. Can't give ourselves away. So here's the plan-”

–

Looking around, her heart pounded and she hid herself against the wall, waiting for the guards to pass by. She closed her eyes as she tried calming her breath, listening as the footsteps approached more closely. Feeling a squeeze of her hand, she turned, looking at Leo who smiled at her reassuringly.

As the footsteps grew closer, she could see the guards come into view before they turned down the opposite path.  

“Now.” Leo whispered as he tugged her hand, pulling her out of the shadows and through the gate, rushing into the nearby treeline. After sprinting for a few minutes, they stopped, panting, before they both started laughing. 

“You're crazy!” Corrin said with a smile as she leaned against a tree- the cool air feeling like daggers in her throat as she caught her breath.

Leo smiled at her. “Did you think I would be dull and boring all the time? I'm hurt,” he said, feigning heartbreak as he clutched his cloak over his heart.

“Your room is literally full of books. Not a good look to the contrary.”

“What? Books are fun!”

Corrin rolled her eyes before looking around, “So… You know where we are right?”

“Yes. There's a path up ahead. Even if we were to get lost, I trust Niles would find us before we even realized.”

Corrin followed behind Leo, eventually setting on the path he had mentioned. If she hadn't known about it, she would have easily missed it.

“So, is this a common pastime for you, Your H-...Leo?”

He scoffed lightly, “The castle can get quite stuffy and monotonous. Besides, it seems much of the reconnaissance activities falls to myself and Niles, though Camilla’s retainer does pick up a lot of the slack. Anyway, trips to town can be beneficial.”

“Is there a lot of… need for that in town?” 

“Occasionally. Though usually, it’s just a fun bout to get away. Although, try to stay close. If our cover gets blown, please just go back to the castle as fast as you can, don’t worry about me.”

They continued to walk in silence, Corrin a bit uneasy in the darkness of the forest, deciding to stay as close to Leo, and the lantern he carried, as best as she could. She knew her eyes would begin to play tricks on her should they begin to stray. Even with a full moon illuminating her surroundings, the leaves had hardly begun to fall casting shadows of the thickets dispersed around.

Finding her mind wandering as they walked, her fingertips found their way to her lips. Leo had kissed her, but why? Or had she imagined it? Perhaps she was still soundly asleep in his bed- her mind, somehow knowing he lay underneath her, treating her to a fantasy.

No, definitely not, but she couldn’t imagine what would possess him to do so. Unsure of how she felt about it, she started when she bumped into him.

“Oh! I’m sorry!” Corrin apologized nervously.

“I was just asking if you were alright? You seemed lost in thought.”

“Y-yes, I’m fine.”

“Best to keep a keen eye out here, not that I’m worried, but two pairs of eyes are better than one.”

Nodding, she shoved her thoughts away for the time being, peering through the surrounding trees, trying to keep her mind focused on the areas she could see in the moonlight.

When they made it to the edge of the treeline, they both stopped. 

Leo turned to look at her, “Blend in, but stay close. Since the ball was pushed back and since you aren’t marked, you’ll be less recognizable to most, and my own scent is dulled, but if we get separated I will find you. Ready?”

Corrin nodded and followed as he snuck out. The path had led to an area that seemed to be less frequented, even during a festival, and close to a nearby back alley that they made their way down. Going out onto the main road was almost overwhelming at first. So many people…

She tried to stick close to Leo, but kept falling behind as she worried about bumping into others.

“Here,” Leo said as he stopped, holding his hand out for her.

Corrin looked away, before reaching out and accepting his hand. Once they started walking again, he led the way, holding her hand firm as he guided her.

“Where are we going?” Corrin asked.

“To the markets.”

Eventually, after many turns, they came to an area lined with stalls in varying directions encircling the area, with wide areas between for people to walk. As she looked around, she saw somewhat of a pattern in which vendors were located, but other stalls dispersed the pattern. Jewelry sellers, a random food stall here and there, clothing, crafts, candles, perfumes, “elixirs”, wines, cheeses, all sorts without including the somewhat hastily put up carts offerings good and foods specially made for the festival. More elegantly decorated candles, moon shaped treats, star shaped jewelry, nothing like Corrin had seen in her own village where, while some foods were made for the occasion, the primary craft and activity was the candle making and lighting, though never too exquisite. 

“Woah…”

Leo smiled at her, “Is this anything like your festivals?”

“No.” She said with a soft laugh, looking around in awe. “I wish I could buy-”

“Look in your satchel.”

Corrin looked to the bag that Felicia had given her underneath her cloak. Inside she found many gold coins, “Leo, I can’t… No.”

“Oh, please. What’s mine is yours. Besides, who said it’s from me?”

Corrin rolled her eyes. She wanted to fight it, but well ‘ That crescent shaped sweetbread looks so…’ Her mouth watering from the smell of pastries, her legs started walking before she could stop herself.

Leo followed behind her as she made her way through the stalls, Corrin wanting to look at every one it seemed, and buying desserts along the way.

“You’re going to make yourself sick,” Leo said with a laugh.

“I’ve never tasted sweets like this! No offense to the ones the Familiar’s make of course.”

“You should at least have something filling, something other than sweets.”

After hopping from stall to stall, she finally sat down, taking a break to sit and taste some of her treats she had acquired. She noticed Leo looking at her out of the corner of her eye, “Oh, would you like some?”

With a laugh he shook his head, “No, I’m fine. I appreciate the thought, though.”

“Oh, right, duh.” She tried to look around inconspicuously before her eyes honed in on what she sought. “Can you watch this for me? I’ll be right back!”

She heard him begin to say her name, but took off before he could protest. 

–-

When she returned, she had her cloak wrapped around her arms, covering her prize.

“Are you even going to have any money left?” Leo asked her, rolling his eyes amusedly, as she sat down slowly.

“Well, I didn’t want you to be left out,” She replied, uncovering the items she balanced on her arm against her chest. “I don’t really know what you like so I grabbed a few things.”

“Im. Poss. Si. Ble.  Honestly,” he huffed.

“Oh shush! Just humor me!”

Leo let out a deep sigh as she handed him the treats. The first, was some sort of tart, blood red, surrounded by various berries, and topped by some sort of wine-colored creme in the shape of a crescent, candied blood atop in the same shape. The next one, a sort of blood-jam macarons, some  blood-red, some a plum color, dustings of red sugar covering each one. The last, a small handful of what Corrin was told were truffles, bloodied ganache with a coating of dark chocolate and a “surprise” center. 

Leo took them all hesitantly, setting some on the bench between them and some on his lap. Corrin watched as he looked over them, before he looked at her, his expression a mix of pity and amusement.

“Do you not like them? I’ve never seen anything like them so I’m not sure what they are, but the person assured me they were good. I don’t really know what kinds of foods you enjoy…”

“I’m sure they did tell you they were good,” he said, a gentle laugh escaping him.

“What? Did I get something you don’t like? I don’t think they’re human blood.”

“It’s not the blood, or the desserts. It’s what they mean. Which stall did you go to?” he asked as he raised a brow.

Corrin hesitated before she gestured to the one she had gone to. She could tell Leo was trying to hold back the smile that tried to creep onto his face.

“What?! Tell me! What do they mean?” she huffed.

“Nothing, it’s nothing! I… Thank you, for the uh… desserts. I humbly accept them.” He lowered his head, though Corrin heard a stifled laughter. “Very kind of you, My Lady.”

A bit taken aback by the sudden title, Corrin looked over the stall she had been to. Nothing about it seemed off to her and it was definitely for the vampiric folk. So then… She looked back at Leo who was looking over his desserts, his cheeks a tint of…red? ‘Is that even possible? Or a trick of the light?’

Leo closed the small bag with the truffles in it, putting it into his own bag he carried, before he sniffed the boxed tart, closing the lid and putting it alongside the truffles.

“Are they not good?”

“I’m… just not that hungry,” he said rather unconvincingly.

Corrin shoved his arm playfully, leaving him wide-eyed. Corrin wondered if anyone had ever done that to him before, but continued with her questioning. “Just tell me! It’s worse not knowing. Did I confess my love or something?”

After blinking a few times in shock at her playful shove, he smiled, “Well… Something like that?”

Corrin felt her face heat up. Surely I didn’t! 

She thought back to her own village's festivals. She couldn’t remember any real meaning to the treats people made, save for one year when Silas gave her a dessert she’d heard meant something along the lines of confession, though people usually ignored meanings given to foods there- no point missing out on good food just because someone wasn’t confessing their love. His demeanor seemed rather bashful when he gave it to her, though she was sure it was a gesture of friendship. 

“If you really want to know- But I already accepted them so you can't take them back,” Leo teased as he held his bag close.

“And you say I’m impossible!”

He chuckled before lifting a macaron toward her, “Would you like some?”

She shook her head, “I think I’m good.”

He forced a sad look, placing his hand over his heart as he feigned heart break, “You wound me, My Lady.”

“You know what? I’m not buying you anything else!” She crossed her arms, pouting playfully.

After some laughter he turned playfully serious, “I just want you to know that I am fully aware of your ignorance on vampiric dessert customs.”

“Oh, man.” She swallowed hard, bracing for the worst.

He opened his bag, lifting the box up slightly, “The tart is probably the least worrisome, for you, anyway. It is mostly served at these moon festivals since we are at our strongest at night. If a… lover… gifts it, it is seen as empowering your love in the moon’s light, free and strong without worry of it fading, such as we are. Although, why it's a crescent moon and not a full moon? I guess it just looks better.”

Corrin covered her face with her hands, groaning, “It gets worse doesn’t it?”

“The macarons here are typically made for newly turned vampires if they were turned by their lovers, or given from one vampire lover to another. Usually you make them with your own blood, and give them to the one you will love for eternity, to bind your hearts together. They can also be given as sort of a… pre-turning gift. Though, that does not happen much. A festival version with animal blood is… a bit novel.” 

Corrin brought her legs up, resting her covered face against her knees, “Just kill me now.”

“I’ll spare you on the candies.”

She didn’t move, mumbling into her legs, “It can’t get any worse, just tell me.”

“Oh, I think it can.”

She sighed, “I’m in this far.”

He hesitated, though ultimately decided to tell her after a long, deep breath. “Well… Don’t say I didn’t try to warn you. The candies uh… Can be made with a drop of your lover's blood which oozes out of the center once bitten into, and contains spices. Working together to… um… Heighten desire…”

“For blood or…?”

“Both. Blood and… the other kind of desire…”

“That’s it. I am deceased, goodbye. Just return to the castle without me.” Corrin curled herself up more, as if she could disappear should she just try hard enough. 

“You couldn't have known! I certainly won’t hold it against you. It’s quite amusing actually.”

“Not. Helping.”

“If it makes you feel better, I’ve neither given nor received these gifts before, so you’re my first.”

“Leave me alone!”

He laughed, placing his hand on her back, rubbing it, “You just happened to go into a very specific stall. I appreciate the treats, regardless. Thank you. Although, if it’s all the same to you, I might have to save the truffles for… some other time not in public.”

“Ahhh!” Corrin couldn’t move, coming close to wishing for something to kill her on the spot. I’m such an embarrassing idiot! Of course there’d be weird meanings! I just wanted to be nice!

After what felt like an eternity of embarrassment, she peeked out from her hands, seeing him sitting casually as he ate the macarons. Binding our hearts, huh?

Would that be the worst fate- if she grew to care for him? 

“Excuse me, mister…”

Corrin watched as a small girl of maybe seven or eight with light brown hair and dirty clothes walked up to them nervously, small hands gripping her sides from behind- a smaller face peeking out from behind her.

”I’s sorry, mister but we were wonderin’ if maybe you could spare some food?”

Corrin watched as Leo sat up, relaxing his posture as he spoke to the girl, “Are your parents nearby?”

The girl shook her head, “Nossir. Our ma tried bringing us up to the town but we got separated by bad vampires on the way. She told us to keep going and don’t stop. But now…”

“What’s your name?” he asked her.

“Natalia, sir.”

Leo took a deep breath before smiling at her, “I’ll do you one better, Natalia.”

The kids both perked up, tilting their heads.

Leo leaned closer, “Have you seen the royal family before?”

The boy shook his head, but the girl nodded, “I did once! We all came here together and we saw them! I ‘member Prince Leo’s pony! She was the prettiest!”

Leo smiled at her, “Willow is very beautiful. I’ll let you in on a little secret.” He moved his hood back just slightly, placing his fingers in his hair to mimic his crown, prompting the girl’s face to light up.

“Prince Leo! You-!”

“Sshh,” he whispered, covering his lips with one of his fingers. “No one knows I’m here. But you see that man over there, with the white hair and the eye cover?” 

Corrin noticed Leo gesture near a lamp post down the row of stalls. She had to focus but eventually realised she saw Niles standing inconspicuously. How long had he been there, she wondered. Am I really so unaware of my surroundings?

The girl nodded, “I do.”

“You go up to him and let him know Prince Leo says to make sure you and your brother are safe. He will take care of you, I promise. But in return, please be careful about talking to strangers, and if you ever need anything, you come to the castle and ask for me specifically. Promise?”

The kids smiled wide, “Promise!” 

Leo pat them on the head before giving them both some gold pieces, “His name is Niles. Remember, be careful! And, maybe sometime I’ll bring Willow by.”

“Thank you-” The girl exclaimed before dropping to a whisper, “-Prince Leo!”

He nodded at her as they both ran off, not taking his gaze off of them until they reached Niles, who seemed rather surprised from what Corrin could see of his visible eye. She noticed Niles look to Leo who only gave a nod in return, Niles then kneeling down to the children.

Leo stood suddenly, “Come on. I need to get something while we’re here.”

With a deep breath, Corrin stood, deciding any questions would need to wait, and followed next to Leo as he weaved through the busy roads. She wanted to look around at the stalls as they passed, but worried she'd lose sight of Leo if she became too distracted. 

Surely, he won't mind… She thought before reaching out slowly, grabbing a small portion of his cloak, keeping her grip firm, freeing her eyes to wander where they liked while he guided them.

As they neared a faraway stall, Corrin noticed it seemed to be attached to the building behind it. A more permanent merchant, if she had to guess when compared to the hastily put together tents and table littered about. 

Flowers cluttered the stall as well as any area nearby it. Was that where Leo was going?

He continued his course toward that particular stall, causing Corrin to question why the prince would be seeking out a flower stall.

“Leon!”

Leon?

“Cassita. How are you enjoying the festival?” Leo asked as he leaned down, hugging the older woman who came from behind the stall.

“Oh, I've made a few sales, but nothin’ spectacular. A few lovers buyin’ roses here and there. Any interest, my boy?” She asked, raising a brow playfully as she gestured toward Corrin.

Leo chuckled, “Oh, maybe. But, I'm here for the usual, and well…” He whispered something in the woman's ear.

She nodded, “Ah. Can't say I've seen or heard of anything like that, and least not over the table.” She turned around, looking to be gathering some flowers.

“Probably for the best. Forget I mentioned it, “ he said firmly.

The woman only nodded once in response, changing the subject, “And how's the younger one? She hasn't been ‘round in some time.”

Leo smiled to her, “She's doing fine. Returned just recently from an excursion with the elder one of the two.”

“Tell her to come by sometime!”

“Of course.”

“And who's this with you? Finally snag ya a girl?”

Corrin blinked, having hoped to blend into the background. Though, now in hindsight, probably would have worked better had she not been holding onto Leo's cloak.

“Kamui, ma'am,” Leo answered before Corrin could speak. “As for relation, she's my, well…,” Leo paused, looking at Corrin.

“I've heard some rumor, don't fret about it,” Cassita assured, giving him a wink. “No use puttin’ her on the spot. But the others don't usually buy theirs roses from a simple flower merchant. Here you are, dear, and with a special somethin’ to impress her.” She handed Leo three separate wrapped up flowers, prompting him to try and hand her coins in return. She turned away quickly, not taking them, “Oh, you go ahead. On the house, as a gift for finally picking a… you know. Hope to hear her real name, sometime. And you remember to tell the younger one to come by! I miss seeing her smile!” 

Leo sighed at her refusal, nodding with a smile before he replied, “Will do. Be well.”

With a smile, she waved him off, turning to greet another person who walked up to the stall. Leo turned as he began to leave and Corrin saw the woman wink at her before Corrin turned to follow him out. As she turned, she gave a passing glance to the person who had walked in, noting some silver hair poking out from under a hood, though she didn’t think anything of it, turning her gaze to Leo as the other person began to look at her.

Corrin noticed Leo put the flowers into his bag carefully as they walked. “So, did she know? Who you are?”

“Yes, she knows.”

“Leon? Kamui?”

“Well, we can't just walk around town using our real names. At least, not in the town right next to the castle.”

“But Kamui?”

“Well, I had to come up with something.”

Corrin nodded in agreement. “So, why flowers?”

He smiled, “Whenever I come into town, it seems my sisters are under the impression I should bring something back for them. Flowers are easy and I can tell Elise her old head Familiar is doing well.”

“Nothing for Prince Xander?” 

“He doesn't exactly… know that we come here occasionally.”

“Oh.”

“So if you could keep this between us-”

“Understood.” She looked around again as they walked, “So now what?” 

“Whatever you’d like. Though, I can imagine you’re most likely done with the treat stalls,” he said with a playful laugh, noting Corrin’s glare.

“Is this how all the Chalices are treated?” She pouted angrily, crossing her arms. “Can it get any worse?” She groaned sarcastically.

“Well…” Leo paused. 

Corrin could feel a hand on her face, opening her eyes in time to see Leo’s face come into view next to hers as he turned her chin to face him. 

He continued, ”It could always definitely get better.”

Corrin’s eyes widened as she took in his proximity, remembering the kiss they had shared before they spontaneously decided to sneak out of the castle. She still wasn’t entirely sure that’s what had happened- convinced still she had imagined it. She had just woken up from being out cold for a few days.

She forced her voice to work, “Oh? Can it?”

“I could show you.”

“You know…” She rolled her eyes at him, “I really think you ought to stop teasing me so much.”

“Oh? And why would I do that?”

“So that’s what you’re doing then! You agree!”

A soft chuckle passed his lips as he moved back, “I suppose I am. Apologies, my lady. I will….try to refrain.” 

He continued walking, leading them to an arched bridge over a small river, flowers growing on either side of the water, moss scattered along the banks, and weeping willows lining the edges neatly, also decorated for the festival. The sides of the bridge also decorated with autumn flowers and lanterns glowing softly in the moonlight, illuminating beautifully against the flowers and water. 

She stood still as she watched him walk toward it looking almost ethereal to her, her brows pinched together as her thoughts ran faster through her head than she could decipher. Finally following behind him, she caught up as he stopped to lean over the side. “Are you feeling alright? First the…kiss…” She said, mumbling the last word, her eyes looking away as she could feel her face warm.

A soft smile found its way to his lips, though he continued to look over the water, “I’ll admit, I do feel quite… happy? I can’t say I’ve felt whatever this is before. But I do know-” He turned to look at her, “I would kiss you again without hesitation. But-” He moved closer to her, bringing his face mere inches from hers, “I said I wouldn’t again without your permission.”

Corrin swallowed as her breath caught in her throat, “W-why? Why… What do you mean? I’m just your Chalice- and a useless one at that-”

“Ah, ah. If you start talking like that again, I might not wait for permission. I told you I don’t care about any of that. Besides, I meant what I said- if you were to ask me again, I will mark you.”

“Are you yourself right now? Or is this the Leo I met in the garden?” She asked as she chuckled lightly.

Leo winced, averting his eyes from hers as he moved back, giving her some space. He took a deep breath before grabbing Corrin’s hand in his own, returning his attention to hers, his gaze firm. 

“Corrin, I’ve never felt more myself. What happened in the garden… I don’t know what caused it, I don’t know why I behaved in such a way, though I have suspicions, but… I would be lying if I said that those thoughts weren’t a part of me. While your… blood is quite an intoxicating smell, I find that there’s something else that draws me to you- beyond being my Chalice. I could live without ever tasting your blood and be content, and while I would respect your decision if you decided to leave, I fear I would… Well, I just don’t know what I would do.” 

Corrin blinked, realizing she was holding her breath. “Leo…”

“I… I’m sorry if none of this makes sense. But, after what happened in my garden, and then when you were almost stolen from me by Nichol… I didn’t want you to just think of me as the monster you saw in either garden.”

He paused, lifting his hand to brush her hair behind her ear,“I don’t think I could stand you being taken from me, unless it’s what you want. And I think of you as more than just a Chalice. I guess in my ignorance, a kiss was an easy way to show you that I don’t care about any of that.”

She watched as he let go of her hand, reaching into his bag and pulling out a small white rose that faded into purple toward the center, a small piece of metal attached to the bottom. Is that what Cassita had alluded to? 

He lifted it up to where he had brushed her hair back and placed it in her hair. He made sure it was stable and caressed her face as he gave a nervous smile, “Ordinarily, it would probably hold better when attached to your tiara-...your headband, but it’s every bit as beautiful on you.”

Corrin reached up, feeling the rose. The petals were soft, almost feeling real, the clip strong as it held her hair behind her ear, “T-thank you, Your Highn… Thank you, Leo. It’s beautiful.”

Corrin let her hand linger as she rested it against his hand on her cheek before she spoke, “Leo, I… I told you I was changing my mind on volunteering as Chalice.”

“You said you'd thought of denying any possible selectors and change to Familiars.”

“Yes.” Her lips pursed as her brows furrowed, trembling slightly, “But… then I… I saw you and… I didn't care what being a Chalice meant anymore, I didn't care at all that you were a prince, I nearly stepped out of line-. But when I saw you looking at me, I thought surely there was no way, perhaps I was still knocked out and had never woken up. And then Xander almost asked me himself, and I was set on saying no to him, even if I wasn't sure if you were going to choose me, because surely that wouldn't happen. Everyone made it very clear that ‘Prince Leo does not choose Chalices’.”

“And yet, here you are and I would have no other. Would you have truly turned down my brother?”

“Yes,” she answered before he finished asking the question. “I decided I didn’t want to be anyone’s but yours.”

Corrin closed her eyes as she pressed softly against his hand. Her thoughts swirled in her head, a tornado jumbling any cohesive ideas before they could take hold, her words smashed together, unable to form a complete sentence. She had never had her hopes up, not since she last saw her mother, and yet Leo exceeded anything she never thought to dream of. While she wasn't sure what that meant for them yet, she knew now she wasn't opposed to the idea.

“Perhaps… Maybe you could help me with my dance practice. I have been out a few days. I would not want to embarass you further in front of your court. If… that would be alright?”

Leo smiled, “I would love to, Corrin.”

His hand lingered on her cheek before he rested it against the bridge, looking out at the moon’s reflection on the water, “This is always a nice spot to think. Even during a festival it's a bit out of the way.”

“It's beautiful.”

“Yes. It is.”

Corrin looked away from the water, noticing Leo's eyes on her. She looked away quickly, “So, uh… Why has Prince Leo infamously never chosen a Chalice.”

The silence felt heavy- Corrin looked out of the side of her vision toward Leo. His demeanor changed, his posture stiff.

Corrin eyes widened slightly as she looked back to the water, “N-not to pry. I understand if you don't want to-”

“No. I should be honest with you.” He took a deep breath, letting it out slowly, “I told you before I'm not used to talking about myself. But, please, I tell you these things in confidence.”

“Of course! I would never tell others things that aren't mine to share.”

“I trust that. I do…” He moved his hand to hers on the stone edge of the bridge, though he kept his eyes fixed on the water. “Do you know why we are the royalty?”

“Because the king is your father?”

“Well, yes, but also we are pure-bloods. As pure as you can be anymore, anyway. Pure-bloods are at the top of the hierarchy, we have the most powers and have the highest capability of being stronger and more adept at possessing any magic than other vampires.”

He closed his eyes, “And, when we change others, we make the most powerful newly made vampires- and we can allow them as much or as little of our own power as we desire. Many come to us who seek immortality, power, ability, others want the status of bearing a pure blood child.”

“Can only pure bloods turn others?”

“No. As a vampire turns another and then that new vampire turns another and so on, the new vampires have less and less power, with those at the bottom having most of our weaknesses, and while they still have improved strength, when compared to a pure blood, well, there's no contest.”

Leo paused, closing his eyes, his breathing steadying, though his expression seemed hurt. Corrin moved her hand that was under his to squeeze his, offering a smile to him.

Leo sighed and continued, “To turn someone, a vampire must bite them with the intent of turning before offering their own blood to the individual, who then must decide if they have the will to survive the change. When a pure blood turns someone, apart from just their initial blood offer, if they allow the person they've turned to drink from them once the change has almost finished, the newly turned will be as close to a pure blood as you can get. This is most often done for mates.”

Corrin swallowed. She hadn't considered being turned before, at least it hadn't crossed her mind until- “Nichol… He threatened to turn me that night.”

Leo's jaw tightened, his eyes flashing with anger as his grip tightened, “If he weren't already dead…”

Corrin winced as he squeezed her hand, prompting his face to soften, “I'm sorry, Corrin! I just…”

“It's okay. It's understandable.”

Leo nodded softly before he continued, “Anyway, if the bond is strong between the vampire and those they turn, the turned may be stronger, and the two be almost inseparable. Vampires are… very territorial- especially when it comes to their mates.”

Corrin thought she saw Leo glance at her.

“All of this to say, my father turned many women. He felt strongly for his mate, no question, though that didn't stop him from experimenting with many of his Chalices and Familiars- seeing how they transitioned into immortality and how their children inherited abilities.”

“You and your siblings-”

“We do not share a mother- any of us. Xander's mother was the only one married to Father. My own mother was one of his Chalices, until he turned her, as he did with my siblings’ mothers, using what he could to his advantage to create many pure-blooded children.”

“So even though they were turned, they created pure blooded children?”

“Well, since he was a direct descendant of one of the original vampires, his blood has more potent qualities. The children are likely to be pure blooded, though some are born weaker, as though they were turned. This created animosity between the children, and their mothers. There used to be more than just the four of us.”

“I'm so sorry to hear that.”

“I was barely old enough to remember most of them, and that's only the ones whose mothers allowed them to socialize. The mothers used their children as pawns, attacking each other, and not being taught to properly control their new strength. The castle was a scary place. I began sneaking out to the town when I was fairly young to get away from the looming shadow cast over all of us.” 

Corrin watched the reflection as he continued, moving closer to lean her arm against his as she still held his hand.

“It was after one of my… outings that I returned to find my mother dying- a silver dagger to the heart.”

“Leo, I'm so-”

“Ah, don't be sorry. I do miss her, but I mourned her even before the attack. She cared little for me as her son, more so just as a game piece to use in court. Father, he… he was upset when she passed, even mistakenly calling me her name. If he really cared for any of them, would he have damned them to such a fate?”

“Some good came from it- it gave us you,” Corrin rested her head on his shoulder and wrapped her free arm around his, causing Leo to look down at her with a slight widening to his eyes, before looking back to the water.

He scoffed softly as he shook his head, “Chalices… They've always seemed so trivial to me. I didn't want to deal with the drama, with the backstabbing, with the animosity, with the killing and pain. I didn't want to become obsessed with using them as Father did, causing my own children's mothers to die at each other's hands. Most of us do not escalate things with our Chalices, and they are just what they volunteer for, and it's less common for a Chalice to be turned, but I didn't want to risk it…risk turning into him. I decided I had no interest in human blood, no interest in having any human Familiars, Chalices, or Thorns. And yet…”

Corrin continued looking at the moon’s reflection, until she noticed Leo's eyes on hers in their reflections on the water.

“And yet here you are, Corrin. Breaking the notoriously stubborn Prince Leo.”

“I'm sorry.”

He laughed before offering her reflection a gentle smile and whispering, “Impossible.”

“Says the impossible to impress Prince Leo,” she teased.

“You’ve seemed to have managed.”

“I’m not nearly as impressive as you.”

“You think I’m impressive, huh?”

Corrin pursed her lips and blinked as he teased her again, “Maybe I will take back being your Chalice!”

He laughed before his expression turned more serious, “Speaking of being my Chalice… WIth the attack the other day, my sister has recommended one of the new Thorn candidates to be your personal guard.”

“I don’t need-”

“If only for your safety. Niles and myself are always vigilant, but surely you’d appreciate a more human perspective. While Felicia and Jakob do their jobs well as your Familiars, it may be easier for them to focus on their tasks rather than trying to also be bodyguards.”

Corrin thought it over. While she didn’t have plans to run off again, it would be nice to have someone watching over her. But she wasn’t sure if she could trust whoever would be picked. Although, surely she could tell Leo to replace them. “Alright. I’ll try it out. But if I don’t trust them-”

“If you don’t trust them, then I will remove them with no hesitation. Your safety is my top priority.”

Corrin scoffed, “Shouldn’t the country be your top priority?”

Leo did not answer, instead only looking into her eyes, unwavering. 

Corrin had only been joking, but surely he didn’t mean-

She wasn’t sure what to say until a misplaced sound reached them, causing Leo’s head to turn.

Gripping her hand, Leo began to walk, pulling her with him, “Come on, the music’s starting! We did come for the festival after all.”

–

After spending most of the night at the festival, Corrin and Leo made their way back through the forest, a much harder trek for Corrin after having walked so much.

She had heard instruments she’d never seen before, and after her stomach settled from the sweets, she tried some festival food, though she did not try buying anymore for Leo. She did, however, challenge him to the apple bobbing, as he had called it, after he explained what it was and how to play. She also pouted when he won easily.

“I told you I have an advantage,” he had said, trying to console her as he pointed to his teeth. “They usually keep the human one separate.”

After some time, they had returned to the bridge and watched as everyone began to light their lanterns, sending them floating into the sky. She had watched in awe as the lights danced through the sky, before the sound of Leo softly clearing his throat caught her attention- turning to see him holding two lanterns. Taking a sharp breath, it took him handing one to her for her to begin breathing again. They joined in with the others, lighting them and lifting them into the air, resting against the edge of the bridge.

Now approaching Corrin's room after successfully sneaking through the castle and snickering when almost caught, the two paused, Corrin turning around slowly to face him.

“Thank you, Your Highness.”

Leo stepped forward, lifting his hand to softly run his thumb across the flower he'd placed in her hair, leaning in to place his lips softly on her forehead. 

Corrin looked up at him as he stepped back, unsure of what to say.

Leo broke the silence, “It's late. You should rest. Although, you're always welcome back in my roo-”

“T-thank you, but maybe not tonight,” she replied nervously.

“I've half a mind to move your room closer… For safety, of course.”

Corrin looked to her door. She still wasn't sure how to navigate to his room, but if his view was any indication, it was nearly on the other side of the castle, “Maybe…”

Leo smiled softly, “We can discuss it later. For now… Goodnight, Corrin.”

“Goodnight.” Her feet felt as though they were trapped in mud, not wanting to make their way to her room. Finally, the beginnings of a yawn caused her to turn, realizing how tired she was- it was either her bed or his. Reluctantly, she turned and opened her door, stepping inside and turning to glance at him a final time before shutting the door and activating the lock.

She turned, pressing her back against the door and slid down along it, sitting on the floor and letting out a deep breath as she looked at the ceiling. 

Is any of this real?

Her body ached as she stood, noticing her old bag on the desk in her room. She shuffled over, opening it and pulling out the candle Silas had given her. A trembling smile finding its way onto her face, looking it over, she decided she would light it for just a moment instead of letting it burn.

She approached the fireplace, lighting the candle, and set it nearby as she sat down.

Closing her eyes and resting for a long moment, she finally stood as her bed called her. Removing her cloak, bag, and shoes, she set them down on the chair near her hearth, blowing out the candle and sauntering to her bed, pausing when she noticed something on her bedside table. 

Felicia was here earlier to bring my old bag to my room, did she leave something? 

She tilted her head as she approached, a puzzled look on her face. She held her hand out, lifting a small candle, it looked like the one she had just lit, though considerably smaller. Underneath it, a piece of cloth wrapped around two folded letters, a small flower also held in place under where the cloth was tied together. 

She looked at the cloth. It looked like a handkerchief. She realized it had embroidery. Small daisies along the hem. It reminded her of-

Impossible!

She unfolded the first note, reading the words on the parchment-

‘Do not trust them.  

-S’