[ At the return of the subject, there is a flash of anger behind his eyes. ]
I do know you, because I’ve dedicated my life to the same thing. Destroyed everything good about myself, became a repulsive wretch, in the pursuit of death. I see it.
[Sighing somewhat, he shakes his head. That anger... so forceful and strong.]
Is that so... In that case, I suppose there's no denying it. That we are alike in that regard.
[Despite everything, he finds himself smiling.]
I merely wish to know where we stand. I'm not seeking to bed your brother deliberately. But nor do I think you should deny him something if he wishes to experience it for himself.
How many times must I say it, before you grasp the issue? It is because it’s you.
[ Pulling his hand away, he sits back. ]
I hardly care that you kissed him, yet you deliberately withheld it from me, and instead aired it out for the world to see. Even that was not where my anger stemmed, but rather… [ He vaguely gestures to the whole of Vanitas. ] All of this.
[ Leaning back in again, he grasps the younger man’s jaw. ]
It is because I want to see him with someone that will make him happy, not do what you’ve done here. It is because I am filled with rage that you would be so flippant to destroy us. That I still want you. All of you.
[ Despite how tightly he grips at Vanitas’ face, his smile grows eerily calm. ]
[The light in Vanitas' vibrant eyes seems to almost glow with recognition as Vincent explains, making his grievances known.]
So I am the problem? I see... Yes, that makes sense. Though I suppose saying I simply saw no reason to bring our kiss up will hold little water as an excuse, hmm?
[Though he does seem slightly puzzled by the gesture indicating "this". As if there's nothing unusual about his previous behavior and their current situation.
At being grasped, he stills, eyes looking slightly faraway.]
....I can only be what I am. I do as please, use the methods I choose, and live solely on my own terms. Does it matter that I don't actively desire to lose what we have, despite my urges to seek out something amusing from you? That should you permit it, I'd continue on by your side?
Because I would, gladly. You fascinate me, deeply. ....so very well. I won't court darling Gilbert. I won't even entertain his advances, should he make them. Will that suffice?
[ Vincent’s eyes are cold with doubt, as he considers the words offered to him. No one should be capable of hurting him this badly, and why should he wish for such a thing to continue?
Despite himself, he draws his thumb beneath Vanitas’ lip. ]
Yes. Do not break my trust again, if I should find it in me to grant it to you. I can provide you with far better amusement than this.
[ Well, Vanitas will certainly receive A Look for calling his big brother an inexperienced child, but… Vincent other does seem to be easing out of his fit, at the very least. ]
That would be unavoidable, if you do plan to remain beside me.
[ Dropping those scissors of his to the floor, his hands shift to the younger’s dress collar, yanking its tie loose. ]
[That look earns him a laugh, buoyant and playful. An incorrigible tease, as always, it seems, despite everything that's just happened. Some things never change.]
Good. Because unless you kill me outright, I have no intention of going anywhere. I've grown far too fond of you for that.
[With a curious hum, Vanitas cocks his head to one side, watching with curiosity as Vincent undoes his clothes.]
[For his part, Vanitas helps with disrobing by starting with the lower buttons, working his way up so they meet in the middle and he can snag Vincent's hand, drawing it up to his lips to kiss his knuckles one by one.]
I don't think less of you for being unable to. If anything, it only proves how alike we are.
[And while he despises himself, those same traits aren't so abhorrent in another person, for some reason, allowing him to gladly lean in and kiss Vincent's cheek.]
[ Smooth, Vani… Exhaling a huff of amusement through his nostrils, he eyes Vanitas’ lips as they endow him with affection. He hates to admit to himself that such efforts to earn back his favor may be working. When did he become so easy to sway? ]
Is that right…
[ As he speaks, Vincent’s free hand works its palm along the younger man’s exposed torso. It’s a wonder what it provides in the pursuit of soothing his aggression, but he’s still got a ways to go yet… ]
[He comes by it naturally, for the most part. Or at least it's become second nature by now to try appeasing those who he's irked, usually deliberately. Humming a note of agreement, he carefully releases Vincent's hand.]
It is. I tried to kill Noé before coming here. In fact, we were in the middle of fighting when I awoke in this world.
[ Something he hasn't even told Noé himself about, since the situation is so complicated. But more importantly to him right now is the way Vincent feels over him, causing his breath to hitch and exhale in a low, sultry moan. Hopefully by the end of their encounter, they'll be back on good terms. As fun as it was to piss him off, Vanitas rather prefers this to them fighting.]
[At that, Vanitas looks mildly indignant with an expression that clearly says "Excuse me?"]
Hey, I warned him. He walked right into a trap like a fool.
[All's going smoothly, until he's lobbied THAT question. At which point he makes another interesting face, although this one looks mildly constipated.]
Eh?! Love him? Noé?! I--
[And yet, Vanitas finds himself unable to outright say no, as he realizes he's not sure what it is he feels for his vampire companion. It's a complex relationship they've got going on, and one that's fraught with numerous pitfalls they keep stumbling into.]
[ All that’s to be done now, is to remove those various and cumbersome articles… but, my, what a distraction those responses are. ]
Aren’t they all.
[ Vincent’s eyes narrow, undecided if the pang of emotion he feels is jealousy, or some sense of empathy. After all, what he feels for his brother certainly is complicate; an urge that he cannot, and shall not, ever act on. However… ]
[For his part, Vanitas tries to be as helpful as he can, but he too is preoccupied, and ends up merely fiddling with his garments.]
I suppose that's true.
[If he notices Vincent's change in expression, he doesn't say as much, his own wavering between being clear cut confusion and thoughtful contemplation. For a time, he's silent, mulling over the question in search of an answer. Finally, he sighs, figuring he might as well start with the main sticking point.]
...he's an Archiviste, for one. They have the ability to see into the memories of those they bite for the first time. And I-- I have memories I can allow no one to see.
[ While that’s a sentiment that Vincent can relate to quite deeply, he recalls that Vanitas had been able to share some of those details with him. It would certainly be another thing entirely, experiencing them firsthand… yet, he can’t quite see that as a hurdle which he couldn’t overcome, considering.
Taking those fiddling hands into his own, Vincent’s head lulls off to the side, thumbs brushing the back of Vanitas’ palms while gazing down on his face. ]
[Despite having his hands held, Vanitas' frown only deepens in consideration, though he silently appreciates the care he's being shown. It helps to steady his restlessness, allowing him to glance briefly at Vincent before returning his gaze to their clasped hands.]
He's... Noé. He's good-natured and innocent, with an inclination towards doing what's morally right. He can't stand to sit idly by when there's a chance he can help. Yet he's used to using force to get his way. He's sheltered and naive, gets distracted easily, and frustrates me to no end.
...he's someone who doesn't deserve a disaster like me.
[ Ah. If Vincent hadn’t fallen for Vanitas before, he certainly has now… Features softening, he brings the younger man’s hands against his heart, as he leans in to caress his lips with a kiss. More brief than he’d like, but passionate, all the same. ]
Yes, indeed, I do understand you, all too well…
[ Their lips brush, as Vincent mutters between them.
Though the events of the night had left him with doubt, it is clear now that Vanitas does have goodness in him, and weakness for those he adores. That is beautiful. ]
[Everything he's said to merely describe his traveling companion is probably more revealing than Vanitas had intended, but with the imprinting, he feels comfortable divulging more than he normally would. Plus, it's Vincent. Someone he feels a strange sort of kinship with through their similarities. So when he's met with a kiss, he breathes heavily, relishing the contact.]
I'm sure you do... Fools, the pair of us...
[Perhaps now their real weaknesses have been shown; Gilbert for Vincent, Noé for Vanitas. It puts them on even footing, if nothing else. Makes it so neither of them can easily get the upper hand should they decide to argue ever again, which he hopes won't be the case.]
[ Humming in agreement, Vincent moves on to kiss the other’s cheek, and then his neck. His mouth explores its length, before finding the spot he craves most, and gently sinks his teeth into its tender flesh.
He guides Vanitas’ hands to rest comfortably atop his thighs, so that he may scoop his body against him, and shift the crumbled garments from his shoulders. All the while, aiming to mark him with a delightfully deep bruise. ]
[The affectionate gestures leave Vanitas with brightly burning cheeks in spite of himself, though he doesn't try to stifle the cry and ensuing moan that comes from being bitten. The sensation is fiery and delectable in the sharpness of it, leaving him craving more.
Hence his obedience when it comes to where to place his hands, fingers curling slightly as they get even closer. The sting of Vincent's mouth has him whimpering slightly, eyelids fluttering lightly as he fights to keep them open, breath heavy with need.]
[ His tongue laps over the blemished stretch of Vanitas’ neck, before his aggressor moves on to the bare skin along his shoulder, deciding this time to sink his teeth over the marking which resides there.
Strangely, Vincent’s teeth may seem sharper than they’ve been during their previous encounters; despite how careful he may be, they manage to just barely break the skin beneath. At first, he hardly notices, not until he clamps his lips over the new abrasion, the coppery tang of blood washes over his tongue. It’s a revelation that leaves the blond drawing breath through his nostrils; hands soothe along Vanitas’ back in silent apology, but all the same, Vincent is quite turned on by it. ]
[Perhaps oddly enough, the marking continues pulsing with faint power even now, providing an interesting sensation of almost being alive itself. The sting of teeth there earns a grunt from Vanitas, though no complaints; it seems to be a favorite spot given the way he squirms and writhes under the other's touch.
He finds himself gasping from the sharpness encroaching upon his flesh, yet the noise he makes is one of lustful satisfaction if the moan is anything to go by. The apologetic gesture is unnecessary, something he hopes to convey by clinging all the more desperately to Vincent, hips rolling encouragingly.]
D..Don't stop...
[Somewhere between an order and begging, he murmurs those words as plea for more, reveling in this more feral side of his lover while his fingers flex.]
was planning this anyway, but now it’s even better h e h
[ Now how could he stop? Blood still on his tongue, a heated sigh drips from Vincent’s lips. An arm lowers beneath the small of Vanitas’ back so that their bodies may stay close, teeth nipping along his collarbone in passing on the way back to the cut on his neck. Greedily, he licks away the blood that’s collected there - and delves his teeth into the reddened skin around it.
These may have been preexisting predilections of his, but now, he seems to crave the aggression. Perhaps it has to do with his second soul, or the wild jealousy that imprinting has imparted him. Maybe it is simply the madness that Vanitas inspires of him. ]
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I do know you, because I’ve dedicated my life to the same thing. Destroyed everything good about myself, became a repulsive wretch, in the pursuit of death. I see it.
[ His hand tightens, knuckles going white. ]
I see what’s important to you.
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Is that so... In that case, I suppose there's no denying it. That we are alike in that regard.
[Despite everything, he finds himself smiling.]
I merely wish to know where we stand. I'm not seeking to bed your brother deliberately. But nor do I think you should deny him something if he wishes to experience it for himself.
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How many times must I say it, before you grasp the issue? It is because it’s you.
[ Pulling his hand away, he sits back. ]
I hardly care that you kissed him, yet you deliberately withheld it from me, and instead aired it out for the world to see. Even that was not where my anger stemmed, but rather… [ He vaguely gestures to the whole of Vanitas. ] All of this.
[ Leaning back in again, he grasps the younger man’s jaw. ]
It is because I want to see him with someone that will make him happy, not do what you’ve done here. It is because I am filled with rage that you would be so flippant to destroy us. That I still want you. All of you.
[ Despite how tightly he grips at Vanitas’ face, his smile grows eerily calm. ]
Do you understand?
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[The light in Vanitas' vibrant eyes seems to almost glow with recognition as Vincent explains, making his grievances known.]
So I am the problem? I see... Yes, that makes sense. Though I suppose saying I simply saw no reason to bring our kiss up will hold little water as an excuse, hmm?
[Though he does seem slightly puzzled by the gesture indicating "this". As if there's nothing unusual about his previous behavior and their current situation.
At being grasped, he stills, eyes looking slightly faraway.]
....I can only be what I am. I do as please, use the methods I choose, and live solely on my own terms. Does it matter that I don't actively desire to lose what we have, despite my urges to seek out something amusing from you? That should you permit it, I'd continue on by your side?
Because I would, gladly. You fascinate me, deeply. ....so very well. I won't court darling Gilbert. I won't even entertain his advances, should he make them. Will that suffice?
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Despite himself, he draws his thumb beneath Vanitas’ lip. ]
Yes. Do not break my trust again, if I should find it in me to grant it to you. I can provide you with far better amusement than this.
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If that's what you wish, then so be it. I value you far too much to risk what we have for some inexperienced child.
[...it seems that even in acquiescing, he can't help being a little shit.]
Though I do hope you'll permit me and him to be friends. I have vested interest in what happens to him now.
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That would be unavoidable, if you do plan to remain beside me.
[ Dropping those scissors of his to the floor, his hands shift to the younger’s dress collar, yanking its tie loose. ]
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Good. Because unless you kill me outright, I have no intention of going anywhere. I've grown far too fond of you for that.
[With a curious hum, Vanitas cocks his head to one side, watching with curiosity as Vincent undoes his clothes.]
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Fingers plucking at buttons, he aims to see the skin that he’d only been given a glimpse at, earlier. ]
I’ve proven that I can’t bring myself to do that. So I suppose we’re stuck with one another.
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I don't think less of you for being unable to. If anything, it only proves how alike we are.
[And while he despises himself, those same traits aren't so abhorrent in another person, for some reason, allowing him to gladly lean in and kiss Vincent's cheek.]
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Is that right…
[ As he speaks, Vincent’s free hand works its palm along the younger man’s exposed torso. It’s a wonder what it provides in the pursuit of soothing his aggression, but he’s still got a ways to go yet… ]
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It is. I tried to kill Noé before coming here. In fact, we were in the middle of fighting when I awoke in this world.
[ Something he hasn't even told Noé himself about, since the situation is so complicated. But more importantly to him right now is the way Vincent feels over him, causing his breath to hitch and exhale in a low, sultry moan. Hopefully by the end of their encounter, they'll be back on good terms. As fun as it was to piss him off, Vanitas rather prefers this to them fighting.]
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Mm, you do delight in causing trouble…
[ By now, he can find the tie of Vanitas’ sash without thought, and so too the buttons of his bottoms. ]
Do you love him?
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Hey, I warned him. He walked right into a trap like a fool.
[All's going smoothly, until he's lobbied THAT question. At which point he makes another interesting face, although this one looks mildly constipated.]
Eh?! Love him? Noé?! I--
[And yet, Vanitas finds himself unable to outright say no, as he realizes he's not sure what it is he feels for his vampire companion. It's a complex relationship they've got going on, and one that's fraught with numerous pitfalls they keep stumbling into.]
It's complicated.
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Aren’t they all.
[ Vincent’s eyes narrow, undecided if the pang of emotion he feels is jealousy, or some sense of empathy. After all, what he feels for his brother certainly is complicate; an urge that he cannot, and shall not, ever act on. However… ]
What’s stopped you?
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I suppose that's true.
[If he notices Vincent's change in expression, he doesn't say as much, his own wavering between being clear cut confusion and thoughtful contemplation. For a time, he's silent, mulling over the question in search of an answer. Finally, he sighs, figuring he might as well start with the main sticking point.]
...he's an Archiviste, for one. They have the ability to see into the memories of those they bite for the first time. And I-- I have memories I can allow no one to see.
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Taking those fiddling hands into his own, Vincent’s head lulls off to the side, thumbs brushing the back of Vanitas’ palms while gazing down on his face. ]
Yes. I understand. Is there more?
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He's... Noé. He's good-natured and innocent, with an inclination towards doing what's morally right. He can't stand to sit idly by when there's a chance he can help. Yet he's used to using force to get his way. He's sheltered and naive, gets distracted easily, and frustrates me to no end.
...he's someone who doesn't deserve a disaster like me.
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Yes, indeed, I do understand you, all too well…
[ Their lips brush, as Vincent mutters between them.
Though the events of the night had left him with doubt, it is clear now that Vanitas does have goodness in him, and weakness for those he adores. That is beautiful. ]
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I'm sure you do... Fools, the pair of us...
[Perhaps now their real weaknesses have been shown; Gilbert for Vincent, Noé for Vanitas. It puts them on even footing, if nothing else. Makes it so neither of them can easily get the upper hand should they decide to argue ever again, which he hopes won't be the case.]
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He guides Vanitas’ hands to rest comfortably atop his thighs, so that he may scoop his body against him, and shift the crumbled garments from his shoulders. All the while, aiming to mark him with a delightfully deep bruise. ]
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Hence his obedience when it comes to where to place his hands, fingers curling slightly as they get even closer. The sting of Vincent's mouth has him whimpering slightly, eyelids fluttering lightly as he fights to keep them open, breath heavy with need.]
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Strangely, Vincent’s teeth may seem sharper than they’ve been during their previous encounters; despite how careful he may be, they manage to just barely break the skin beneath. At first, he hardly notices, not until he clamps his lips over the new abrasion, the coppery tang of blood washes over his tongue. It’s a revelation that leaves the blond drawing breath through his nostrils; hands soothe along Vanitas’ back in silent apology, but all the same, Vincent is quite turned on by it. ]
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He finds himself gasping from the sharpness encroaching upon his flesh, yet the noise he makes is one of lustful satisfaction if the moan is anything to go by. The apologetic gesture is unnecessary, something he hopes to convey by clinging all the more desperately to Vincent, hips rolling encouragingly.]
D..Don't stop...
[Somewhere between an order and begging, he murmurs those words as plea for more, reveling in this more feral side of his lover while his fingers flex.]
was planning this anyway, but now it’s even better h e h
These may have been preexisting predilections of his, but now, he seems to crave the aggression. Perhaps it has to do with his second soul, or the wild jealousy that imprinting has imparted him. Maybe it is simply the madness that Vanitas inspires of him. ]
ehehehe that it is
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